U.S. Bank

Stadium

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U.S. Bank Stadium

Capacity:
66 202
8,900 (Business seats)
73,000 (Maximum event capacity)
Country:
United States of America
City:
Minneapolis
Clubs:
Minnesota Vikings
Other names:
Vikings Stadium
Inauguration:
07/22/2016
Construction:
12/03/2013 - 07/2016
Cost:
$ 1.129 billion
Design:
HKS Architects
Contractor:
Mortenson Construction
Address:
900 South 5th Street, Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States 55415
Our Reminder on Things to Do for the Best Experience
  1. Buy Tickets in Advance: Secure your tickets well in advance to get the best seats and avoid last-minute hassles. Check for additional Parking Passes. Check security requirements possibly no bags, or clear bags only?
  2. Arrive Early: Give yourself plenty of time to arrive at the stadium before the game starts. This will allow you to find parking, navigate the stadium, and soak in the pre-game atmosphere.
  3. Check the Schedule: Know the game schedule, as well as any pre-game events, tailgating parties, or fan experiences that might be happening on that day.
  4. Parking: Research parking options in advance, and consider using rideshare services or public transportation to avoid parking headaches.
  5. Dress Comfortably: Wear comfortable clothing and shoes, as you might be walking around a lot.
  6. Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
  7. Bring ID and Tickets: Make sure to have your ID and tickets ready for security checks and entry into the stadium.
  8. Explore the Stadium: Take some time to explore the stadium, including its various levels and amenities.
  9. Try Local Food: Check out the food and beverage options within the stadium. Many stadiums offer local cuisine and unique food items.
  10. Capture Memories: Take photos to capture the memories. The stadium's design and the energetic crowd make for great photo opportunities.
  11. Respect Fan Etiquette: Respect the fans around you, regardless of which team they're supporting. Engaging in good sportsmanship enhances the overall experience.
  12. Follow Security Guidelines: Be aware of the stadium's security guidelines and cooperate with security personnel for a smooth entry process.
  13. Plan for Post-Game Traffic: Consider that traffic leaving the stadium can be heavy after the game ends. Have a plan for transportation after the event.
  14. Visit the Team Store: Check out the team store for merchandise and souvenirs to commemorate your visit.
  15. Download Apps: If the stadium has an official app, download it for real-time updates, interactive experiences, and information about the event.
  16. Respect Local Laws: Familiarize yourself with local laws and regulations to ensure a trouble-free experience.
  17. Weather Preparedness: Check the weather forecast and dress accordingly if the game is outdoors or has an outdoor component.
  18. Check for COVID-19 Guidelines: Stay updated on any COVID-19 related protocols or guidelines.
  19. Enjoy the Atmosphere: Immerse yourself in the excitement of being at a live game, cheer with fellow fans, and create lasting memories.

Another of North America’s “billion+ stadiums” appeared on the horizon in 2012, following years of planning. HKS Architects were awarded design work, allowing the company to extend their impressive portfolio of stadia. Seeing how the Metrodome was defeated by harsh winters in Minnesota, the old stadium’s site was to hold a weather-proof stadium that would still seem open-air and welcoming.


Though retractable roof was under consideration, it was deemed too expensive. Instead, a permanent dome of 11,000 tons of structural steel was designed, able to withstand even thick snow cover. The snow shouldn’t stay for long though, because the roof is slanted, owing to the stadium’s aggressive styling. The asymmetric, angular form rises from the landscape towards the west (downtown), reaching height of 82 meters. This is where the immense main truss peaks, running along the full 300-meter length of the stadium.


The building lowers towards the south, where it’s largely covered with transparent ETFE sheets. This way it receives great amount of sunlight throughout the day and remains visually open despite being entirely enclosed. Altogether this part of the roof covers 22,300 m2, becoming the largest across USA upon opening. Altogether transparent or translucent elements cover nearly twice that surface throughout US Bank Stadium, roughly 40,000 m2. The sheer size raised concerns over birds flying into the stadium.


The western façade is even more open than the roof. First, metaphorically. With majority of it being made with glass, the stadium seems welcoming. Second, practically. Five pivoting doors can open up a huge space of 2,200 m2, responding to the estimated crowd flow. Up to 70% of visitors were expected to come this way.


The project is impressive, but also controversial. Funding is taxpayer-footed, which with expenditure of over $1 billion caused criticism. Approved in 2013, it went under construction in December of that year, racing for delivery ahead of the 2016 NFL season.


However, American football is hardly the only sport US Bank Stadium is being built for, even if Vikings are the key tenant to secure its financial viability. Bulk of the lowermost ring of seating is telescopic to allow even a baseball field inside, while also enabling seats to be moved closer for smaller-court events like basketball or boxing. Altogether over 66,000 people can get inside, with optional expansion to 73,000 for special events like the Super Bowl. Corporate portion of the stands were expanded from initial estimates to reach 8,900 business seats and 131 skyboxes.