| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Home Team | Washington Commanders (NFL) |
| Opened | September 14, 1997 (originally Jack Kent Cooke Stadium; later known as FedEx Field until August 2024) |
| Capacity | 62,000 |
| Best Value Seats | Upper Level corners & mid-sideline sections (300s) — affordable with solid sightlines |
| Premium Seating | 257 luxury suites, Club Level (Joe Gibbs Level), The 1932 Club, Field Club |
| Top Stadium Foods | Classic NFL fare: jumbo dogs, BBQ brisket, local favorites like Ben’s Chili Bowl |
| Nearby Bars/Eats | Prince George’s County bars/restaurants; tailgating culture remains strong. |
| Closest Hotels | Lodging options in Landover, D.C. metro, and near Morgan Blvd Metro station |
| Transit Access | Metro Blue Line to Morgan Blvd + ~15-min walk; rideshare & gameday shuttle drop zones |
| Tradition Highlights | “Hail to the Commanders” song, historic RFK legacy energy, fan marching band (revived in 2022) |
| Unique Highlights | Formerly known as FedEx Field (1999–2024); hosted NFL playoffs, college games, World Cup bid venue |
🔍 Need a custom plan for your Commanders gameday? Use our Gameday Guides AI for personalized tips on seating, food, parking, and transportation to Northwest Stadium.
Northwest Stadium Seating Chart
Northwest Stadium’s current capacity of 62,000 spans five distinct levels, each offering unique advantages for different budgets and preferences. Here is the Northwest Stadium (formerly FedEx FIeld) seating chart.
Washington Commanders Tickets
Commanders tickets can be a tough get, especially for divisional games against the Dallas Cowboys, Philadelphia Eagles, and New York Giants. The passionate Commanders fanbase fills Northwest Stadium for every home game, making advance planning essential for securing the best seats at reasonable prices.
Getting Your Washington Commanders Tickets
The official Washington Commanders website remains your most reliable source for authentic tickets with the full range of seating options. Their partnership with Ticketmaster ensures verified authenticity and access to exclusive pre-sales for season ticket holders and club members.
Get your Washington Commanders Tickets Here! With our partnership with VIvid Seats you can often score the best tickets to the Commanders, Wizards, Caps or any event. These platforms often feature better deals than face value, especially for less popular matchups or weather-dependent games.
Money-Saving Insider Tips
Cowboys and Eagles games command premium pricing and sell out quickly, often reaching $200-400+ for decent seats. Consider attending preseason games for an affordable stadium experience at just $25-75 per ticket, or target Thursday Night Football games which typically run 20-30% cheaper than Sunday afternoon contests.
Upper level corner sections provide exceptional value, offering solid sightlines at budget-friendly prices. Weather-dependent late season games often see price drops as game day approaches, especially if playoff implications are minimal.
Best Seats at Northwest Stadium
The Bobby Mitchell Level (Lower Bowl) puts you closest to the action with sections 100-149 surrounding the field. These premium-priced seats offer the most intimate football experience, with midfield sections 120-130 commanding top dollar but delivering unmatched views of every play.
The Joe Gibbs Club Level (200s) represents the stadium’s sweet spot for many fans, combining excellent sightlines with climate-controlled comfort. These sections include private concourses, premium dining options, in-seat service via the Commanders app, and shorter concession lines. Sections 220-230 provide the best value-to-view ratio in this premium tier.
The Pete Rozelle Upper Level (300s) delivers the best bang for your buck, with sections 320-330 offering panoramic field views at affordable prices. Don’t let the “upper level” designation fool you – these seats provide excellent perspectives of game strategy and field positioning that lower seats sometimes miss.
Optimizing Your Seat Selection
Timing matters when choosing your seats. For 1 PM games, west-side sections (odd numbers) receive afternoon shade, while east-side sections work better for morning kickoffs. Between the 30-yard lines provides the classic “TV view” experience, though end zone seats offer unique perspectives of red zone action and touchdown celebrations.
Rows 10-25 typically provide optimal viewing angles in any section, avoiding potential obstructions from field-level activity while maintaining intimate proximity to the action. Aisle seats offer easier concession access and slightly better legroom – worth the small upcharge for longer games.
Premium Seating Options at Northwest Stadium
Northwest Stadium’s premium offerings have evolved significantly, with new additions providing world-class experiences for those seeking elevated gameday luxury.
The 1932 Club Experience
The newly introduced 1932 Club represents the pinnacle of premium seating at Northwest Stadium. This exclusive space features the stadium’s best views, gourmet all-inclusive dining, and premium beverage service that rivals any luxury restaurant in Washington DC. The enhanced amenities and personalized service justify the premium pricing for special occasions or important client entertainment.
Club Level Advantages
The Joe Gibbs Club Level transforms your gameday experience with climate-controlled comfort regardless of Washington’s unpredictable weather. Private escalators whisk you past general admission lines, while the exclusive concourse features multiple bars, restaurants, and lounges with leather seating and HD televisions.
In-seat food delivery through the Commanders app eliminates concession line waits, while premium restrooms and the post-game Ciroc 5th Quarter party extend your premium experience beyond the final whistle. The Platinum Lounge with Margarita Bar and Craft Haus brewing station provide sophisticated alternatives to standard stadium concessions.
Luxury Suite Options
Northwest Stadium’s 257 luxury suites accommodate 16-24 guests with dedicated attendants, climate control, private restrooms, and customizable catering menus. These suites provide the ultimate corporate entertainment venue or special celebration space, with pricing starting around $3,000-8,000 per game depending on opponent and suite location.
The Field Club offers outdoor premium seating closest to field level, combining luxury amenities with the authentic stadium atmosphere that indoor suites sometimes sacrifice.
Northwest Stadium Bag Policy
Understanding Northwest Stadium’s policies ensures smooth entry and an enjoyable gameday experience without unexpected surprises at the gates.
Clear Bag Policy and What You Can Bring
Northwest Stadium follows the NFL’s clear bag policy, permitting only transparent plastic, vinyl, or PVC bags not exceeding 12″ x 6″ x 12″. Small clutch purses up to 4.5″ x 6.5″ are also permitted alongside one clear bag. One-gallon clear freezer bags work perfectly for personal items, while medical bags receive special consideration after proper security inspection.
Official Commanders clear bags are available at the team store, though any qualifying clear bag works equally well. The policy applies to all patrons regardless of age, with very limited exceptions for medical necessities.
Mobile Ticketing Requirements
All Northwest Stadium tickets are delivered digitally through the official Commanders mobile app. Screenshots, PDFs, and printed tickets are not accepted under any circumstances, making a charged smartphone absolutely essential for stadium entry. Download the Commanders app well before gameday and ensure your tickets are properly loaded and accessible.
Prohibited Items and Security
Outside food and beverages are strictly prohibited, with no exceptions for special dietary needs. Large cameras with detachable lenses over 5 inches, backpacks, weapons, laser pointers, and battery-powered clothing all face confiscation at security checkpoints.
Smoking and vaping are completely prohibited throughout the stadium interior, with designated smoking areas available outside all gates. The stadium maintains a zero-tolerance policy for prohibited items, so leave questionable items at home or in your vehicle.
Getting Help When You Need It
For any gameday assistance, call 301-276-6100 or text SAFE to 703-266-6263. Security and guest services staff are positioned throughout the stadium to address concerns, provide directions, or handle emergencies promptly and professionally.
Northwest Stadium Parking & Transportation
Smart transportation planning can make or break your Northwest Stadium experience, with multiple options offering different advantages depending on your priorities and budget.
Stadium Parking Strategy
Pre-purchased parking passes are absolutely required for all official stadium lots, with zero availability for game-day purchases. Parking opens 4 hours before kickoff (5 hours for the premium RedZone Lot), encouraging early arrival for optimal tailgating experiences.
Official parking costs $40-80 depending on proximity to the stadium and opponent popularity. The color-coded lot system directs traffic efficiently, but following your specific lot assignment religiously prevents delays and potential towing from incorrect areas.
The RedZone Lot commands premium pricing but provides wider spaces, enhanced tailgating amenities, and the most festive pre-game atmosphere. For serious tailgaters, this lot justifies its higher cost with superior facilities and die-hard fan communities.
Metro: The Smart Alternative
Taking Metro’s Blue or Silver Lines to Morgan Boulevard Station eliminates parking headaches entirely. The 15-minute walk to Northwest Stadium follows well-marked pedestrian paths, though the distance increases substantially in poor weather conditions.
Metro charges a $15 special event parking fee for non-riders at Morgan Boulevard and Downtown Largo stations, making the train itself more economical than driving for most fans. However, Metro service may end before late games conclude, requiring alternative post-game transportation planning.
Download the DC Metro app for real-time arrival information and service alerts that can affect your gameday timeline. Weekend service modifications and special event schedules sometimes alter normal operations.
Rideshare Realities
Uber and Lyft provide convenient door-to-door service, but surge pricing after games can reach 3-4 times normal rates. The official pickup/drop-off zone in the Red Zone Lot requires a 5-minute walk from Gate A, with longer waits common after popular games.
Savvy fans walk 2-3 blocks away from the stadium before requesting rides, often avoiding peak surge zones and reducing wait times significantly. Pre-arranging pickup times or meeting points with drivers can streamline post-game departures.
Enter “8001 Sheriff Rd, Hyattsville MD 20785” as your destination to ensure drivers find the correct rideshare zone rather than attempting stadium main entrances.
Food Options at Northwest Stadium
Northwest Stadium’s concession options have improved dramatically in recent years, featuring both beloved local institutions and popular national brands that satisfy diverse tastes and dietary preferences.
Washington DC Specialties
Ben’s Chili Bowl brings DC’s most iconic culinary experience directly to Northwest Stadium with their famous half-smokes – split hot dogs topped with hearty chili that have defined DC street food for generations. At $12-15, these represent both great value and authentic local flavor that visitors shouldn’t miss.
DMV Crab serves Maryland-style crab cakes that celebrate the Chesapeake Bay’s maritime heritage. While pricier at $18-22, these crab cakes offer legitimate restaurant quality in a stadium setting, making them perfect for special gameday treats.
Popular National Brands
Chicken Guy!, celebrity chef Guy Fieri’s signature concept, serves crispy chicken tenders with creative signature sauces that have become fan favorites. Johnny Rockets delivers classic American burgers and hand-spun milkshakes with retro diner atmosphere, while Dinosaur Bar-B-Que provides authentic barbecue experience with smoky meats and traditional sides.
Taffer’s Tavern elevates stadium dining with upscale sports bar fare, including craft cocktails and premium appetizers that rival downtown DC establishments. Casa De Avila offers authentic Mexican tacos and fresh salsas for fans seeking lighter, flavorful alternatives to heavy stadium staples.
Beverage Strategy and Pricing
Domestic beer drafts cost $12-14, while craft selections from local DC breweries reach $15-18. Specialty cocktails at themed bars like the Crown Royal 50-Yard Bar command $16-20 but provide premium spirits and professional bartending that justify the premium.
The FanDuel Sportsbook combines live betting with full bar service, creating unique gameday entertainment for fans interested in broader NFL action beyond the Commanders game. Endzone bars provide elevated viewing positions with game sightlines while serving full beverage menus.
Club Level ticketholders enjoy in-seat delivery through the Commanders app, eliminating concession line waits during peak periods like halftime and timeouts, though pricing remains consistent across all stadium levels.
Hotels Near Northwest Stadium
Choosing the right accommodations can significantly enhance your Washington Commanders gameday experience, with options ranging from stadium-adjacent convenience to downtown DC cultural immersion.
Stadium-Area Accommodations
WoodSpring Suites Arena Drive sits just 0.6 miles from Northwest Stadium, offering basic but clean accommodations at $89-129 per night. This no-frills option works perfectly for fans prioritizing stadium proximity over luxury amenities.
Residence Inn Largo Capital Beltway (0.8 miles) provides suite-style accommodations with kitchenettes at $149-199 nightly, ideal for families or groups planning extended stays. Staybridge Suites Washington DC East Largo (1.1 miles) offers similar extended-stay amenities with competitive pricing at $139-189 per night.
Holiday Inn Express Largo delivers reliable chain quality 1.2 miles from the stadium at $119-169 nightly, featuring complimentary breakfast and modern amenities that business travelers appreciate.
Downtown Washington DC Experience
Staying in downtown DC adds 30-45 minutes to your stadium commute but transforms your visit into a complete Washington experience. The Hay-Adams provides historic luxury near the White House, while Four Seasons Georgetown offers waterfront sophistication for special occasions.
The Willard InterContinental embodies Washington’s political atmosphere with elegant accommodations where presidents and diplomats have stayed for generations. These luxury options cost $300-600+ nightly but provide world-class service and prime locations for exploring the nation’s capital.
Mid-range downtown options like Hampton Inn & Suites National Harbor and Hyatt Place National Harbor offer modern amenities with easier Metro access to the stadium, typically ranging $150-250 per night depending on season and events.
Booking Strategy and Timing
Cowboys and Eagles games require reservations 6-8 weeks in advance as hotels sell out quickly and prices spike dramatically. Non-divisional games allow more flexibility with 2-3 weeks advance booking usually sufficient for good selection and pricing.
Some suburban hotels offer gameday shuttle services, though schedules may not accommodate post-game delays or overtime periods. Airport hotels at BWI and DCA provide consistent availability with reliable Metro connections, making them smart backup options when closer accommodations fill up.
Restaurants and Bars Near Northwest Stadium
Northwest Stadium’s suburban Landover location presents dining challenges that require strategic planning, especially compared to urban stadiums with extensive nearby restaurant scenes.
Limited Local Dining Reality
The immediate stadium area offers minimal dining options, with Carolina Kitchen (1.0 miles) providing solid Southern comfort food and Copper Canyon Grill (1.3 miles) serving American steakhouse fare. Jasper’s American Grill (1.3 miles) delivers sports bar atmosphere with typical bar food and multiple televisions for pre-game entertainment.
Woodmore Town Centre near the Capital Beltway houses various chain restaurants and casual dining options, though the mall-like setting lacks the authentic local atmosphere many visitors seek. Small strip malls at the Landover Road and Brightseat Road intersection provide fast-casual options for quick pre-game meals.
Washington DC Culinary Destination
The real dining excitement requires venturing into Washington DC proper, where world-class restaurants justify the 20-30 minute Metro journey. Ben’s Chili Bowl on U Street serves as both restaurant and cultural institution, offering the original half-smoke experience in its historic setting with walls covered in photos of celebrities and politicians.
Old Ebbitt Grill near the White House provides historic tavern atmosphere where presidents and power brokers have dined since 1856. Their oyster bar and classic American menu create quintessential Washington dining experiences.
Founding Farmers celebrates farm-to-table cuisine with multiple DC locations, emphasizing sustainable ingredients and creative American dishes that showcase regional flavors. Their extensive craft cocktail program and weekend brunch draw locals and visitors alike.
Sports Bar Scene for Game Watching
ChurchKey on 14th Street boasts over 500 beer selections with knowledgeable staff who can guide you through craft options from around the world. Their upscale atmosphere attracts serious beer enthusiasts and provides excellent alternative viewing for away games.
Capitol City Brewing Company combines local brewery pride with sports bar functionality, featuring their signature beers alongside typical game-day food in multiple DC locations with large-screen viewing.
Clyde’s of Georgetown delivers upscale sports viewing with full restaurant service, making it perfect for groups mixing serious dining with game watching in a refined setting.
Pre-Game Dining Strategy
Smart fans plan DC restaurant visits 2-3 hours before kickoff, allowing time for leisurely meals before Metro journeys to the stadium. This approach combines authentic Washington dining with convenient stadium access via public transportation.
Alternatively, focus on stadium-area options for convenience while saving DC restaurant exploration for non-game days when you can properly appreciate the city’s culinary offerings without time pressure.
Fun Things to Do in Washington DC
Washington DC transforms any football weekend into a rich cultural experience, with world-class attractions, historic monuments, and vibrant neighborhoods providing endless entertainment between arrival and kickoff. Keep in mind these are bit away from the stadium, but if you’re in from out of town these are great ways to spend a day.
The National Mall serves as America’s front yard, stretching from the Capitol Building to the Lincoln Memorial with iconic monuments and memorials dotting the landscape. The Lincoln Memorial’s steps provide powerful views of the Reflecting Pool and Washington Monument, especially striking during sunrise or sunset visits.
The Vietnam Veterans Memorial’s black granite wall creates moving experiences as visitors locate names and leave remembrances. The Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial’s powerful stone carving and inspiring quotes offer moments of reflection about American civil rights progress.
The Washington Monument’s 555-foot marble obelisk dominates the skyline, while the World War II Memorial’s fountains and pillars honor the Greatest Generation’s sacrifices. All monuments remain accessible 24 hours daily with beautiful nighttime illumination.
Smithsonian Institution Museums
The Smithsonian’s collection of free museums provides world-class cultural experiences rivaling any global destination. The National Museum of Natural History houses the Hope Diamond, extensive dinosaur exhibits, and fascinating displays about human evolution and cultural development.
The National Air and Space Museum showcases the Wright Flyer, Apollo spacecraft, and interactive exhibits about aviation and space exploration that captivate visitors of all ages. The National Museum of American History preserves the Star-Spangled Banner, First Ladies’ inaugural gowns, and artifacts spanning American cultural development.
The newer National Museum of African American History and Culture requires timed entry passes but offers comprehensive examinations of African American contributions to American society, culture, and history.
Neighborhood Exploration
Georgetown’s historic Federal architecture and cobblestone streets create charming backdrops for shopping along M Street and dining on Wisconsin Avenue. The C&O Canal towpath provides scenic walking and biking opportunities along the Potomac River with historical locks and canal boat rides.
Adams Morgan pulses with international energy, featuring diverse restaurants along 18th Street and vibrant nightlife that attracts young professionals and cultural enthusiasts. Saturday farmers markets showcase local vendors and artisans in festive community atmospheres.
Capitol Hill extends beyond government buildings to include Eastern Market’s weekend vendors, historic rowhouses on tree-lined streets, and Barracks Row’s dining and shopping corridor that locals frequent regularly.
Seasonal Considerations and Planning
Spring games coincide with cherry blossom season, when over 3,000 trees around the Tidal Basin create stunning pink and white displays that attract millions of visitors. Peak bloom typically occurs late March through early April, making spring Commanders games particularly special.
Summer’s heat and humidity (85-95°F) make early morning monument visits and air-conditioned museum refuges essential, while fall’s perfect 65-80°F temperatures create ideal conditions for extensive walking tours and outdoor activities.
Winter games offer fewer crowds at popular attractions, shorter museum lines, and beautiful holiday decorations throughout the city, though bundling up for 30-50°F temperatures becomes necessary for extended outdoor exploration.
Game Weekend Itinerary Ideas
Friday arrivals allow evening monument walks when lighting creates dramatic photography opportunities and cooler temperatures make walking more comfortable. Late dinners in Dupont Circle or Georgetown provide sophisticated introductions to DC’s dining scene.
Saturday morning museum visits beat crowds while energy levels remain high for extensive exhibitions. Afternoon neighborhood exploration in Capitol Hill or Adams Morgan provides authentic local experiences before evening fine dining and nightlife.
Sunday morning coffee and pastries in Georgetown or Adams Morgan create relaxed starts before Metro journeys to tailgating and the main event at Northwest Stadium, with post-game options depending on energy levels and departure schedules.
Frequently Asked Questions
How early should I arrive for the full tailgating experience?
Parking lots open 4-5 hours before kickoff, with serious tailgaters arriving immediately for prime parking spots and maximum pre-game festivities. The RedZone Lot offers the most elaborate tailgating scene with dedicated fans who transform parking into elaborate parties with grills, games, and community celebrations.
Can I bring my own food and drinks to the stadium?
No outside food or beverages are permitted under any circumstances, including water bottles, snacks, or special dietary items. The clear bag policy and security screening enforce this strictly, so plan to purchase all food and drinks inside the stadium or eat beforehand.
What happens if there’s severe weather during the game?
NFL games continue in most weather conditions, including rain, snow, and moderate wind. Only lightning, severe storms, or extreme safety concerns pause or postpone games. Club Level provides climate-controlled refuge, while other sections require weather-appropriate clothing and preparation.
Is Northwest Stadium family-friendly?
Yes, family sections provide enhanced security and family-appropriate atmospheres with stricter enforcement of conduct policies. The stadium offers changing stations, family restrooms, and kid-friendly concession options, though the general atmosphere can become intense during rivalry games.
What’s the best strategy for avoiding post-game traffic?
Staying 15-20 minutes after the final whistle allows crowds to thin significantly while providing time to discuss the game and plan departure logistics. Metro typically handles post-game crowds better than vehicle traffic, while walking to nearby shopping areas before calling rideshares avoids peak surge pricing zones.
Are there any unique Commanders traditions I should know about?
“Hail to the Commanders” remains the fight song, though lyrics have evolved with team name changes. Burgundy and gold colors dominate fan fashion, while NFC East rivalries (especially Cowboys and Eagles) create electric atmospheres with intense but generally friendly competition between fan bases.
How does mobile ticketing work if my phone dies?
Stadium charging stations cost $2 for 30 minutes of power, while Club Level areas provide accessible outlets for emergency charging. Portable battery packs are permitted and highly recommended for long game days, especially during cold weather that drains phone batteries faster than normal.
What’s the cell phone service like inside the stadium?
Stadium WiFi (“Northwest Stadium” network) provides free internet access, though speeds slow during peak usage periods like halftime and timeouts. Cellular service generally works well, but downloading tickets, maps, and other essential information before arrival prevents connectivity issues during critical moments.
Northwest Stadium is getting long in the tooth, but still delivers one of the NFL’s most passionate gameday experiences. And all that with one of the NFL’s most historic franchises, which is back on the ascent with Jayden Daniels. While the Commanders have announced plans for a potential new stadium at the historic RFK Stadium site by 2030, Northwest Stadium will remain the Commanders’ home until then, so come enjoy a Sunday afternoon and this franchise back on the rise.
Here are some other great local and regional stadiums and arenas.
This guide includes insights from personal visits as well as updated info from team sources, fan forums, and stadium policies. We aim to help you plan with confidence — enjoy your gameday.