From the frozen tundra of Green Bay to the sun-soaked stands in Miami, NFL stadiums are as varied as the cities they call home.
Each offers its own blend of history, design and atmosphere that shapes the game-day experience for players, fans and coaches alike.
Some (like SoFi and Allegiant) are modern marvels packed with high-tech features and luxury amenities while others (like Lambeau Field and Arrowhead) thrive on tradition, energy and fan passion. Each has its own charm and its own drawbacks.
Our rankings consider location, design, fan atmosphere, amenities and history, along with that hard-to-define ‘it factor’ that makes a stadium unforgettable.
We also asked NFL stars – both past and present – to weigh in on the matter, to provide the perspective from those who have played in these stadiums.
Whether you’re a die-hard season ticket holder or simply planning your first NFL viewing, here’s how all 30 stadiums – hosting the league’s 32 teams – rank from worst to best.
We reached out to former NFL stars to determine the definitive ranking of football stadiums
30. MetLife Stadium (New York Jets & New York Giants)
Opened: 2010 Capacity: 82,500
MetLife Stadium, shared by the Jets and Giants since 2010, is the NFL’s largest venue by capacity, but bigger doesn’t always mean better.
Many fans criticize it for having a generic, corporate feel that lacks the character and unique touches found in other stadiums.
The gray design has often been compared to an oversized air conditioner, and sharing between two teams can dilute its identity.
The location in East Rutherford, New Jersey, adds to the drawbacks. It’s far from the heart of New York City, with limited public transit options and plenty of game-day traffic.
While it hosts major events like the Super Bowl and upcoming World Cup matches, it often ranks near the bottom in fan experience surveys for atmosphere and charm.
MetLife Stadium – home to the Jets and Giants – lacks personality and is fairly inaccessible
While it hosts major events like the Super Bowl and upcoming World Cup matches, it often ranks near the bottom in fan experience surveys for atmosphere and charm
29. Northwest Stadium (Washington Commanders)
Opened: 1997 Capacity: 62,000
Formerly known as FedEx Field, Northwest Stadium in Maryland has had its fair share of critics over the years, so it’s no surprise that Commanders are leaving.
Back in April, the franchise announced they would return home to DC after reaching an agreement to build a brand new $3.7 billion stadium.
A large reason for the move is due to the decaying state of the Northwest Stadium, which has become known for it’s plumbing issues and obstructed views.
This unfortunate reputation began back in 2022, after several spectators were injured after a railing collapsed as they approached the tunnel to greet players.
What the stars said
Derek Carr: ‘That was tough. It’s older and you get spoiled in the NFL. Then you go to a place that’s a little bit older and you think, “What the heck?”‘
Patrick Peterson: ‘The field and the locker room was horrible.’
Washington’s Northwest Stadium has unfortunately built a reputation upon its shortcomings
The Commanders are set to leave the Northwest Stadium amid approved plans for a new place
28. EverBank Stadium (Jacksonville Jaguars)
Opened: 1995 Capacity: 67,838
EverBank Stadium offers sunny Florida weather, massive video boards and unique amenities like pool cabanas overlooking the field.
However, the stadium’s aging infrastructure shows its years, with amenities and concourses lagging behind more modern venues.
Attendance can be inconsistent, leaving empty seats and a sometimes-muted atmosphere. Early-season heat and humidity can also make for an uncomfortable fan experience.
The EverBank Stadium doesn’t have the traditional feel that most NFL stadiums have
Attendance can be inconsistent, leaving empty seats and a sometimes-muted atmosphere
27. Bank of America Stadium (Carolina Panthers)
Opened: 1996 Capacity: 74,867
Bank of America Stadium has been home to the Carolina Panthers since 1996. It boasts a classic bowl design, and strong sightlines that keep fans close to the action.
However, some criticize it for lacking the flashy, futuristic feel of newer NFL venues.
Without a retractable roof or extensive weather protection, late-season games can be uncomfortably cold or rain-soaked.
While the stadium delivers authenticity and atmosphere, it doesn’t offer the same ‘wow factor’ as the league’s newest builds.
What the stars said
Matt Lienart: ‘It just wasn’t an exciting or loud stadium.’
The Bank of America Stadium doesn’t offer the same ‘wow factor’ as the NFL’s newest builds
Without a retractable roof, late-season games can be uncomfortably cold for Panthers fans
26. Hard Rock Stadium (Miami Dolphins)
Opened: 1987 Capacity: 65,236
Hard Rock Stadium boasts a sleek, colorful redesign, a canopy that shades most fans and a reputation for hosting top-tier events from Super Bowls to Formula 1.
For long-time fans, the current conditions of the stadium are a welcome change to how it stood prior to the 2015 renovations that cost $350 million.
However, Miami’s heat and humidity can still be intense, and the stadium’s distance from downtown and the beach can make it less convenient for out-of-town visitors.
What the stars said
Dwight Freeney: ‘The old Dolphins stadium where they had the baseball field… in some parts you had to run through dirt, which wasn’t good.’
Hard Rock Stadium boasts a sleek canopy that shades most fans in attendance
The stadium was one of many in the US to host during the FIFA Club World Cup
25. Paycor Stadium (Cincinnati Bengals)
Opened: 2000 Capacity: 65,515
Opened in 2000, Paycor Stadium boasts an atmosphere that has surged in recent years thanks to the Bengals’ on-field success, making game days electric.
It offers fans picturesque views of the Ohio River and downtown skyline, giving it one of the more scenic backdrops in the NFL.
It also has, arguably, the coolest nickname in the league – not many fancy their chances when they head to ‘The Jungle’.
What the stars said
Baker Mayfield: ‘I always played well there.’
Paycor Stadium – or ‘The Jungle’ – has an electric atmosphere brought by the 65,515 fans
It’s not the most aesthetic stadium from the outside
24. Caesars Superdome (New Orleans Saints)
Opened: 1975 Capacity: 73,208
New Orleans’ Caesars Superdome was constructed in 1967 and has gone on to host a record-breaking eight Super Bowls – including last year’s showpiece event.
The Saints have given fans little to cheer about in recent years, but NFL aficionados are well aware of the stadium’s electric atmosphere when things are going well.
There had previously been suggestions that the stadium was outdated, but after its $560 million interior renovation prior to the 2024 season, there is little left to be critiqued.
What the stars said
Kyle Juszczyk: ‘It’s like a football game on a basketball court. The music is pumping, you can’t hear a thing. That’s a fun environment to go into.’
Charles Woodson: ‘In the dome, when that thing gets rocking, that’s a great place to play.’
New Orleans’ Caesars Superdome has hosted a record-breaking eight Super Bowls
NFL aficionados are well aware of the stadium’s electric atmosphere on game day
23. Levi’s Stadium (San Francisco 49ers)
Opened: 2014 Capacity: 68,500
After 42 years at their previous stadium – Candlestick Park – the 49ers packed up and moved into their brand new home, Levi’s Stadium.
Now, their stadium boasts a sleek design with a bunch of eco-friendly innovations – which are arguably the most impressive part of the entire facility.
It became the first stadium to have both a green roof and solar panels, which led to it receiving a Gold LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Certificate.
However, the new-build stadium has also been criticized over its location – far from San Francisco’s city center – and the lack of shade amid sweltering temperatures.
The San Francisco 49ers’ Levi’s Stadium boasts a unique look with eco-friendly innovations
However, it has been criticized by some fans for the lack of shade amid high temperatures
22. Soldier Field (Chicago Bears)
Opened: 1924 Capacity: 61,500
Soldier Field is rich with history, offering a unique blend of classic architecture and modern upgrades. Its lakefront location and skyline backdrop make it visually stunning for any fan who visits.
However, the controversial 2003 renovation drastically altered its iconic look and reduced seating capacity, drawing criticism from fans and preservationists alike.
Harsh Chicago winters can make late-season games punishing, and despite upgrades, it lacks many of the high-end amenities and comforts found in newer stadiums.
Chicago winters can make late-season games punishing for fans who visit Soldier Field
21. Highmark Stadium (Buffalo Bills)
Opened: 1973 Capacity: 71, 608
There’s no denying the fact that the Highmark Stadium is not the most aesthetically pleasing venue on this list. In fact, it may be one of the least.
However, the open-air design embraces Buffalo’s wild winter weather, turning snowy and windy games into spectacles that give the Bills a real home-field advantage.
On the downside, Highmark is one of the NFL’s oldest stadiums and lacks many of the amenities and luxury features found in newer facilities.
Exposure to harsh weather can make for a tough fan experience, and its dated infrastructure is part of the reason a new stadium is currently under construction.
The New Highmark Stadium is set to open its doors in 2026.
What the stars said
Sam Darnold: ‘It can get really loud.’
The Highmark Stadium’s design embraces Buffalo’s wild winter weather
The snowy conditions and raucous atmosphere can make it a difficult stadium for opposition
20. Huntington Bank Field (Cleveland Browns)
Opened: 1999 Capacity: 67,431
Pretty standard, as stadiums go. There’s not much to shout about the Huntington Bank Field but, on the flip side, there isn’t anything bad about it either.
The atmosphere inside is fueled by one of the NFL’s most loyal fan bases, who bring energy and noise in all conditions.
And by ‘all conditions’, we really mean that. The one downside is the harsh Cleveland winter, which can make games frigid and windy for the 67,431 fans packed inside.
Huntington Bank Field is fueled by a loyal fanbase, but it is standard as far as stadiums go
19. Nissan Stadium (Tennessee Titans)
Opened: 1999 Capacity: 69,143
Nissan Stadium has played host to the Titans since 1999, but in 2027, that is all set to change.
The Titans have begun building a brand new 60,000-seat stadium which is projected to cost just over $2 billion.
While some fans will undoubtedly miss the Nissan Stadium’s charm, the new venue is set to feature some high-tech upgrades which will surely be well received.
The Titans have called Nissan Stadium their home since 1999 – but that will soon change
The Titans are preparing to leave and are building a brand new 60,000-seat stadium
18. Raymond James Stadium (Tampa Bay Buccaneers)
Opened: 1998 Capacity: 69,218
There is something about the Raymond James Stadium that separates it from the rest.
No, it’s not the atmosphere, nor is it the stadium’s shape and design. Its the massive, functioning pirate ship that sits in the middle of the stands and overlooks the field.
The ship comes equipped with replica cannons that are fired off when a point is scored in the game and an animatronic parrot that speaks to passers by.
However, that’s about as good as it gets for the Bucs. The open-air design leaves fans fully exposed to Tampa’s sweltering heat, humidity and sudden downpours, which can make early-season games uncomfortable.
While it has undergone renovations, parts of the infrastructure still feel dated, particularly in comparison to the league’s newest, high-tech venues.
The Raymond James Stadium boasts a unique feature in the form of a functioning pirate ship
The ship uses replica cannons to fire shots once a point is scored during the game
17. Gillette Stadium (New England Patriots)
Opened: 2002 Capacity: 66,829
Above all else, Gillette Stadium is known for its winning history given the fact that the Patriots have picked up five Super Bowls since moving in.
The Patriots’ decision to move was hardly difficult, given the dire conditions of their old home, Foxboro Stadium, and the lack of revenue it brought.
Now, none of that is an issue for the Patriots. It also earns bonus points for having a lighthouse just outside the stadium – a rare sight in football.
The Patriots’ Gillette Stadium is known for its winning history
It also boasts a lighthouse out front, which features on the stadium’s symbol
16. State Farm Stadium (Arizona Cardinals)
The State Farm Stadium looks a bit like a spaceship, or perhaps an upside-down saucepan, from the outside.
Either way, it generates a fantastic atmosphere inside and has some nifty technological features such as the retractable roof.
However the stadium’s location in Glendale is a common complaint, as it sits far from central Phoenix, requiring a long commute for many fans and visitors.
While the surrounding area has grown with restaurants and entertainment, it still doesn’t match the bustling feeling of a true downtown stadium.
The State Farm Stadium looks like a spaceship from the outside
The location of the stadium – far from downtown – is a regular bug bear of attending fans
15. NRG Stadium (Houston Texans)
What the NRG Stadium lacks on the outside, it makes up for on the inside.
For fans rocking up to the home of the Texans, they may be left a bit underwhelmed when walking up to the unassuming facility.
However, once you’ve stepped inside, you are treated to one of the league’s most impressive interiors, that fans across the country flock over for.
It’s versatile enough to host everything from Super Bowls to the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo.
Houston Texans’ NRG Stadium is unassuming from the outside
It features a hugely impressive interior and has hosted concerts and the Super Bowl
14. Ford Field (Detroit Lions)
Ford Field’s downtown Detroit location, retractable roof panels and cozy, enclosed design create a loud, weather-proof environment.
Its architecture cleverly incorporates a historic warehouse into the stadium’s structure.
Still, it lacks some of the visual ‘wow factor’ of newer stadiums, and its urban location means parking can be limited and expensive.
Fans outside Ford Field may feel the stadium lacks the ‘wow factor’ of newer stadiums
13. M&T Bank Stadium (Baltimore Ravens)
Opened: 1998 Capacity: 71,008
M&T Bank Stadium is known for its loud, passionate fan base and strong sightlines that keep the action close.
The purple-clad crowd creates one of the more intimidating atmospheres in the league.
On the downside, the open-air design means fans are at the mercy of Baltimore’s cold, wet winters, and while upgrades have helped, the stadium still lacks some of the cutting-edge tech and luxury amenities found in newer builds.
The M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore is known for its impressive sight lines from all angles
The open-air design means fans are exposed to Baltimore’s ever-changing temperatures
12. Lincoln Financial Field (Philadelphia Eagles)
Lincoln Financial Field blends modern amenities with one of the NFL’s most passionate and vocal fan bases.
Its downtown location offers excellent accessibility, and eco-friendly initiatives – including solar panels and recycling programs – make it one of the league’s greenest stadiums. The game-day energy here is among the best in football.
The team is Super Bowl champion, but the stadium falls just short of the top 10 – dropping to 12th place in the rankings.
Lincoln Financial Field hosts a variety of events – including Club World Cup soccer last month
It’s a very open stadium prone to being battered by the elements – including snow
11. Acrisure Stadium (Pittsburgh Steelers)
Opened: 2001 Capacity: 68,400
Home to the joint-most successful NFL franchise in history, this 68,000-seat stadium is a favorite among many.
Known as Heinz Field from its opening in 2001 up until 2022 – when Kraft Heinz declined to renew naming rights – the stadium has a very traditional feel to it.
With its open-air roof, which overlooks the stunning Ohio river, there is plenty to take in when fans visit the Steelers home stadium.
Interestingly, the venue’s attendance record is held by Taylor Swift after 73,117 people flocked in to watch the pop star in action.
What the stars said
Kyle Juszczyk: ‘My first four years in the league I was with Baltimore and so it was always a primetime game, we always played there at night, the terrible towels were flying and there was a lot of energy. It was a great rivalry. So I always say that’s my favorite place.’
Sam Darnold: ‘They always bring it.’
Acrisure Stadium has an open-air roof and overlooks the stunning Ohio river
Home to the joint-most successful NFL franchise in history, it’s a favorite among many
10. Empower Field at Mile High (Denver Broncos)
Opened: 2001 Capacity: 76,125
There are many aspects to the Empower Field at Mile High which make a fantastic home stadium but none more prevalent than its location – namely, its elevation.
Empower Field sits one mile above sea level and, coupled with the atmosphere which Denver fans create, it becomes an incredibly difficult stadium for rivals to play in.
However, that didn’t seem to be the case for Tampa Bay QB Baker Mayfield.
Meanwhile, on the downside, Empower Field feels dated compared to the NFL’s newest arenas. The open-air design exposes fans to Denver’s unpredictable weather.
What the stars said
Baker Mayfield: ‘I always played well there.’
Matt Ryan: ‘A really cool place, you come out, the horse is riding, the energy in that stadium, it’s a really good fan base.’
An aerial view of Empower Field at Mile High – home to the Denver Broncos
The stadium’s location and atmosphere make it a difficult venue to visit
9. Lucas Oil Stadium (Indianapolis Colts)
Opened: 2003 Capacity: 69,596
If you’re searching for the NFL’s most unique venue, look no further than the Lucas Oil Stadium, home to the Indianapolis Colts.
The exterior boasts a reddish-brown brick style, which gives it an archaic feel, but in reality, the stadium has some fantastic modern amenities.
It features a retractable roof and massive window wall, which offer flexibility for any weather while also providing stunning views of the Indianapolis skyline.
Its versatility has made it an ideal host for major events like the Super Bowl, NCAA Final Four, and the annual NFL Scouting Combine.
With its combination of cutting-edge amenities, fan comfort and prime location, Lucas Oil Stadium consistently ranks among the best venues in the league.
The Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis features a retractable roof and massive window wall
The window wall is shown from the inside of the stadium before an NFL game in January
8. Mercedes-Benz Stadium (Atlanta Falcons)
Opened: 2017 Capacity: 71,000
Now, some readers may feel that we’ve been a bit harsh here.
The Mercedes-Benz Stadium is undoubtedly one of the best venues in the league with regard to its unique design – both on the inside and outside.
The stadium features the iconic retractable ‘oculus’ roof and a stunning 360-degree halo video board – the largest in the world of its kind.
Its fan experience is further elevated by Atlanta’s groundbreaking ‘Fan First’ pricing, which keeps food and drink costs among the lowest in the NFL.
What the stars said:
Charles Woodford: ‘In the dome, when that thing gets rocking, that’s a great place to play.’
The Mercedes-Benz Stadium features a 360-degree halo video board inside
It also features an iconic retractable ‘oculus’ roof – which allows in natural light and ventilation
7. Allegiant Stadium (Las Vegas Raiders)
Allegiant Stadium is a black-glass marvel nicknamed ‘The Death Star,’ offering climate-controlled comfort, a translucent roof and views of the Las Vegas Strip.
Opened in 2020, it boasts cutting-edge amenities and one of the most striking designs in the NFL.
On the downside, ticket prices and concessions are among the highest in the league, and the atmosphere can feel less intense due to the large influx of visiting fans in the tourist-heavy city.
Fans have said the Las Vegas stadium looks like the Death Star
It attracts both fans and tourists
6. AT&T Stadium (Dallas Cowboys)
Opened: 2009 Capacity: 80,000
Narrowly missing out on a place in our top five is AT&T Stadium, home to the Dallas Cowboys.
Known as ‘Jerry World’ – after Dallas owner Jerry Jones – the stadium stuns with its retractable roof and one of the largest HD video boards in the world.
It is one of the few NFL stadiums that blends luxury with entertainment on a grand scale, and is able to host up to 80,000 fans on game day.
However, some fans say the focus on spectacle can overshadow the football itself, and the large space can sometimes dilute crowd noise compared to intimate venues.
The Dallas stadium features a retractable roof
Fans can watch replays on a massive center screen
5. SoFi Stadium (Los Angeles Rams & Los Angeles Chargers)
The SoFi Stadium is one of the more commonly known venues, mainly due to the fact that it is used for several different sports.
The stadium is set to host eight matches during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Super Bowl LXI in 2027 and the opening ceremony for the 2028 Olympic Games.
Despite all of that, those who have played at the SoFi Stadium have often complained about conditions, particularly the temperature inside the domed-roof.
Technically, the stadium is neither fully indoor nor fully outdoor. It boasts a translucent canopy and open siding which is designed to allow natural light and breeze. But that isn’t always the case.
What the stars said
Baker Mayfield: ‘Even though it’s indoors, sometimes it’s cold.’
Derek Carr: ‘As a visitor, the way they do the locker room is so jacked up. It’s all sporadic and you can’t get together as a team. So I loved the stadium but the locker room sucked.’
The SoFi Stadium is one of the NFL’s newest venues but has struggled to impress some stars
The stadium is set to host eight matches during the 2026 FIFA World Cup
4. Lumen Field (Seattle Seahawks)
Opened: 2002 Capacity: 69,000
In an honorable fourth place is the Seattle Seahawks’ Lumen Field.
A stadium purposely built to emphasize its open-air nature and to amplify sound using its clamshell-shaped roof, it’s a venue many fans love to visit.
Its downtown location offers views of the city and Puget Sound, and the vibrant Seahawks fan base creates a uniquely intimidating environment for visiting teams.
Opened in 2002, the 69,000-seat stadium has hosted NFL games, soccer matches and even an Ed Sheeran concert – which holds the record attendance at the venue.
What the stars said
AJ Hawk: ‘Awesome. It’s always super loud and the fans were into it and when we were playing them, it was a great era of the Seahawks.’
Matt Lienart: ‘Just how loud it was. The acoustics of the stadium, how it was built and Seattle is a cool town when you walk in there.’
Matt Ryan: ‘I loved playing in Seattle, the fan base is incredible – loud, but a great atmosphere to play in.’
Seattle Seahawks’ Lumen Field typically generates an electric atmosphere on game day
The stadium was purposely built to emphasize its open-air nature and to amplify sound
3. Arrowhead Stadium (Kansas City Chiefs)
Opened: 1972 Capacity: 76,416
In a podium spot, but narrowly missing out on the top of the list, is none other than the Kansas City Chiefs’ Arrowhead Stadium. And we promise they’re not top-three just because of Travis Kelce and Taylor Swift.
Arrowhead impresses due to its electric atmosphere and roaring fans who once achieved the Guinness World Record for loudest crowd noise at an event.
Try finding a better atmosphere than that, which is created by the 76,416 spectators who pack into Arrowhead on game day.
Even before Kelce, Patrick Mahomes and company, Arrowhead was always a stadium that drew a reaction of some kind from the rival stars who turned up hoping to steal a victory.
What the stars said
Travis Kelce: ‘Arrowhead is home for me. It’s a part of my heart, playing in that stadium.’
AJ Hawk: ‘Even when I was playing them – they weren’t who they are in the Patrick Mahomes era – but it was still crazy. Awesome setting, awesome fans. Super loud.’
Jerome Bettis: ‘The fans and the crowd were electric. Really impressive.’
Kansas City Chiefs’ Arrowhead Stadium is third in our list of the best NFL stadiums in the US
The atmosphere at Arrowhead is incomparable with any other in the NFL
Chiefs star Travis Kelce has previously claimed that ‘part of my heart’ is in Arrowhead
2. US Bank Stadium (Minnesota Vikings)
Opened: 2016 Capacity: 66,665
The US Bank Stadium is a favorite among many NFL fans, with a remarkable design from the outside, but it just misses out on the top spot.
It’s one of the league’s newest stadiums having only opened its doors in 2016, and it boasts some stunning features that help provide a unique atmosphere.
Though it is an indoor venue, the stadium features a transparent roof which allows a ton of natural light to flood in.
With an overall building budget of around $1.061 billion, it’s no wonder the 66,202-seat stadium is a favorite among many – fans and players alike.
What the stars said
Ryan Fitzpatrick:’The atmosphere is really fun – whether it’s the old stadium or the new one.’
AJ Hawk: ‘The old-school dome was not the nicest place ever but it got ever super loud. I had a good time playing inside that place.’
Kyle Juszczyk: ‘They have so many cool traditions with the skull chants and they’re always a good team.’
Derek Carr: ‘Crazy, passionate fans. Very loud, beautiful stadium.’
Patrick Peterson: ‘Very passionate.’
The US Bank Stadium – home to the Minnesota Vikings – is one of the NFL’s newest stadiums
Though it’s an indoor venue, the stadium features a transparent roof allowing light to flood in
1. Lambeau Field (Green Bay Packers)
Opened: 1957 Capacity: 81,441
Lambeau Field in Green Bay stands as a shrine to NFL history and tradition.
Since opening in 1957, it has maintained its intimate, community-focused atmosphere while undergoing smart renovations that enhance comfort without losing soul.
The ‘Frozen Tundra’ has hosted some of football’s most iconic moments, and its passionate fan base creates one of the most electric environments in sports.
The stadium has gone through several expansions and is now the second-largest stadium in the NFL – thanks to its 81,441-seat capacity.
With all this in mind, it rightfully earns top spot in our NFL stadium rankings.
What the stars said
Matt Leinart: ‘Just the nostalgia. In my rookie year, I got to play against Brett Favre. That was really, really cool.’
Matt Ryan: ‘You feel the history when you walk in. That place is special.’
Joe Buck: ‘It’s amazing – just because of the history there.’
Lambeau Field was first modern facility built with the sole purpose of housing an NFL team
The Packers’ stadium boasts the title as the second-largest capacity in the NFL
