Navigating parking at a major venue like State Farm Stadium can feel like a game in itself! From understanding the different lot types to knowing how much you'll actually pay, it's essential to be prepared. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about parking at State Farm Stadium, ensuring a smoother and less stressful event experience.
Your Ultimate Guide to Parking at State Farm Stadium: How Much is it, and How Do I Get a Spot?
Are you ready to dive into the world of State Farm Stadium parking? Let's make sure you arrive at your event feeling calm, collected, and ready to enjoy the action, not frustrated by parking woes!
Step 1: Identify Your Event Type - Because Not All Parking is Created Equal!
Before you even think about parking costs, the very first and most crucial step is to determine what kind of event you're attending. Is it an Arizona Cardinals game, a major concert, the Fiesta Bowl, or something else entirely?
Why is this important? Because parking policies, availability, and pricing can vary significantly between different event types. Cardinals games often have specific gameday parking procedures, while concerts or other events might utilize different lots or pricing structures.
Action Item: Grab your event ticket or look up your event details online. Note the specific event name and date. This will be your compass for the rest of this guide!
Step 2: Understand the Pricing Landscape - What to Expect for Your Wallet
Now that you know your event, let's talk numbers. The exact cost of parking at State Farm Stadium isn't a fixed, universal price. It fluctuates based on demand, event type, and whether you purchase in advance.
General Parking Estimates:
For most major events, including Arizona Cardinals games and large concerts, you can generally expect parking prices to start around $20 to $30.
Some sources indicate parking starting from $30.00 for certain events like Morgan Wallen concerts or Arizona Cardinals Training Camp sessions.
Preferred or VIP parking options will, naturally, be more expensive, potentially ranging from $30 to $50 or even higher. For instance, some maps from previous years showed Red-NP VIP parking at $30 and Gray Preferred at $20, but these prices can change.
Oversize vehicle (RV/Bus) parking is significantly more, with past rates around $50 or more.
Key Considerations for Pricing:
Dynamic Pricing: Like many event venues, State Farm Stadium and its parking partners often use dynamic pricing. This means prices can change based on demand, how close it is to the event, and how many spots are left. Booking early almost always saves you money.
Cashless Venue: State Farm Stadium is a cashless venue. This applies to parking as well. Make sure you have a credit card or debit card ready for payment if you plan to pay on-site.
Step 3: Choosing Your Parking Strategy - Advance Purchase vs. Day-Of
This is where you make a crucial decision that can save you time, stress, and potentially money.
Sub-heading: Option A: The Smart Choice - Pre-Purchasing Parking
Strongly Recommended! The official State Farm Stadium website and the Arizona Cardinals highly recommend purchasing your parking spot in advance.
Why pre-purchase?
Guaranteed Spot: You'll have a confirmed parking space, eliminating the anxiety of searching on event day.
Potentially Lower Price: Often, pre-purchased parking passes are cheaper than day-of rates, especially for high-demand events.
Smoother Entry: With a digital pass, entry into the lots is generally quicker as you avoid payment transactions at the gate.
How to Pre-Purchase:
Official Channels: The primary and most recommended way to pre-purchase parking is through SeatGeek.com, which is the trusted ticketing partner for State Farm Stadium. For Arizona Cardinals games, you can also often find parking passes directly through the Arizona Cardinals Mobile App.
Third-Party Resellers: Websites like Vivid Seats, ParkMobile, and ParkWhiz also offer pre-purchased parking passes for State Farm Stadium events. While these can be good options, always compare prices and check the legitimacy of the seller.
Digital Passes: Parking passes are almost entirely digital. Ensure your phone is fully charged on event day, as you'll need to access your pass via the relevant app (Cardinals Mobile App or SeatGeek app).
Sub-heading: Option B: The Adventurous Choice - Day-Of Parking
While not ideal for major events, day-of parking might be available, especially for less crowded events.
Limited Availability: Day-of parking is offered on a first-come, first-served basis. For popular events, these lots fill up quickly.
Potentially Higher Cost: Expect to pay the highest prices for day-of parking.
Black Lot: For Cardinals games, the Black Lot is often designated for day-of parking convenience for visitors without pre-sold permits.
Cashless Only: Remember, all on-site parking payments will be cashless.
Step 4: Navigating the Stadium Lots - Understanding the Map and Access Points
State Farm Stadium has numerous parking lots, each with specific access points. Familiarizing yourself with the parking map is key to a smooth arrival.
Key Parking Lots & Access:
General Parking (Blue, Green, Yellow, Black): These are typically accessible via Glendale Avenue or Cardinals Way from Loop 101, as well as from surface streets like 91st and 99th Avenues. Follow messaging boards and parking staff directions as you approach.
Preferred Parking (Red, Gray, Orange): These lots usually have more specific access points. For example, Red Preferred parking is often accessed by entering the lot at Maryland Avenue and 95th Avenue.
Oversize Lot (F Oversize lot): Dedicated for RVs and buses.
ADA Parking: All Sportsman's Park carparks and most off-site gameday parking lots have designated ADA spaces. A valid state-issued hangtag or license plate is required. Accessible cart service is often available from these lots to stadium security checkpoints for disabled fans and one companion.
Crucial Navigation Tips:
Follow Staff Directions: Always adhere to the directions and instructions provided by Glendale police and stadium parking staff. They are there to manage traffic flow and direct vehicles to the closest available lots.
Use Navigation Apps (Wisely): While apps like Waze can be helpful, some official stadium information recommends searching for specific lot names (e.g., "Red Lot - State Farm Stadium on Waze") rather than just the stadium address to ensure you're guided to the correct entry point.
Arrive Early: Especially for Cardinals Gameday, parking lots typically open four hours prior to kickoff. For other major events, check the event's detail page for specific opening times. Arriving early helps you beat the rush and secure your spot.
Step 5: Consider Alternative Parking and Transportation - Beyond the Stadium Lots
Sometimes, official stadium parking isn't the best or only option. Explore these alternatives:
Sub-heading: Off-Site Parking at Westgate Entertainment District
The Westgate Entertainment District, adjacent to State Farm Stadium, offers significant parking options.
Free Parking on Non-Event Days: Unlimited free parking is available on non-arena or stadium event days.
Paid Parking on Event Days: On State Farm Stadium event days, paid parking operations typically begin 4 hours before the start time of stadium events and end 2 hours after they begin.
2-Hour Complimentary Parking: Even on event days, Westgate guests receive 2-hour complimentary parking. You must register via a QR code onsite or by texting P4807 to 504504 to redeem this free 2-hour parking. If you arrive prior to the charging timeframe, you won't be charged.
Cashless Payments: Westgate parking payments are cashless, accepted via QR code, Premium Parking App, or Text to Pay.
Walking Distance: Westgate is generally within walking distance of the stadium, though distances vary depending on your specific parking spot.
Sub-heading: Rideshare Services (Uber/Lyft)
Designated Drop-off/Pick-up: State Farm Stadium has a preferred drop-off and pick-up spot for rideshare services: the Black Lot located south of the stadium. This makes for a convenient and managed experience.
Cost-Effective for Small Groups: For smaller groups, ridesharing can sometimes be more cost-effective than parking, especially if you factor in the convenience.
Sub-heading: Public Transportation (Limited Options)
While Phoenix has public transportation, direct routes to State Farm Stadium are somewhat limited and involve transfers.
Valley Metro Bus: You can take Valley Metro buses, such as the Line 70, which can get you to Glendale Av & 95th Av, a walkable distance from the stadium. The journey from central Phoenix can take around 1.5 to 2 hours with transfers and costs approximately $2.
Light Rail + Bus: Another option is to take the light rail to a transfer point and then switch to a bus.
Note: Public transportation to State Farm Stadium is generally not the most convenient or fastest option, especially for those coming from farther parts of Phoenix. It's best suited for those prioritizing budget over travel time.
Step 6: Post-Event Departure - Exiting the Lots Smoothly
Just as important as arriving is departing efficiently.
Follow Staff Directions: Again, follow the guidance of parking staff and law enforcement as you exit. They will be directing traffic flow to minimize congestion.
Be Patient: After a large event, expect delays. Thousands of vehicles are trying to exit simultaneously.
Carparks Close: Stadium carparks typically close one hour after the event concludes. Make sure you're out within this timeframe.
Final Thoughts: Plan Ahead and Enjoy the Show!
Parking at State Farm Stadium doesn't have to be a headache. By following these steps – understanding your event, planning your payment, pre-purchasing if possible, and familiarizing yourself with the layout – you can significantly reduce stress and enjoy your experience from start to finish. Don't wait until the last minute! A little preparation goes a long way.
10 Related FAQ Questions
How to buy parking passes for State Farm Stadium?
You can buy parking passes in advance through SeatGeek.com, which is the stadium's trusted ticketing partner, or for Arizona Cardinals games, via the Arizona Cardinals Mobile App. Third-party sites like ParkMobile and Vivid Seats also offer passes.
How to find accessible parking at State Farm Stadium?
Accessible parking spaces are available in all Sportsman's Park carparks and most off-site gameday parking lots. You must display a valid state-issued ADA hangtag or license plate. Accessible cart service is also available from these lots to security checkpoints.
How to get to State Farm Stadium using public transportation?
Public transportation options primarily involve Valley Metro bus services, such as the Line 70, which can take you close to the stadium. Some routes may require a transfer from the light rail.
How to know the exact parking cost for a specific event at State Farm Stadium?
The best way to know the exact cost is to visit the event's specific detail page on the State Farm Stadium official website or the Arizona Cardinals website (for Cardinals games), or to check the pricing when purchasing a pass through SeatGeek.com or other authorized parking platforms for that event.
How to pay for parking at State Farm Stadium?
State Farm Stadium is a cashless venue, so you will need to pay for parking using a credit card or debit card. This applies to both pre-purchased passes (paid online) and day-of parking (paid on-site).
How to find the Black Lot for parking at State Farm Stadium?
The Black Lot is typically located south of State Farm Stadium. It's often used for rideshare drop-off/pick-up and can be a day-of parking option for those without pre-sold permits. Follow signage and staff directions upon approach.
How to avoid high parking fees at State Farm Stadium?
The best way to avoid high parking fees is to pre-purchase your parking pass as early as possible. Also, consider parking at the nearby Westgate Entertainment District and utilizing their 2-hour complimentary parking, or exploring rideshare options.
How to find parking for oversized vehicles at State Farm Stadium?
State Farm Stadium has a designated Oversize Lot (often referred to as the F Oversize lot) for RVs and buses. The cost for these vehicles is significantly higher than standard car parking.
How to get detailed parking maps for State Farm Stadium events?
Detailed parking maps are usually available on the official State Farm Stadium website under their "Directions & Parking" section, and also on the Arizona Cardinals website for gameday information. When purchasing through SeatGeek or other platforms, specific lot maps might also be provided.
How to know when State Farm Stadium parking lots open?
For Arizona Cardinals Gameday, parking lots typically open four (4) hours prior to kickoff. For other major events, you should visit the event's detail page on the State Farm Stadium website for the most up-to-date and accurate information on lot opening times.