State Farm Stadium is a multipurpose retractable roof stadium that serves as the home of the Arizona Cardinals in the National Football League. Located in Glendale, Arizona, the venue hosts not only football but also major concerts, college events, and high profile tournaments, making it a central entertainment hub in the Phoenix area.
Opened in 2006 and originally named University of Phoenix Stadium, the venue replaced Sun Devil Stadium as the Cardinals long term home. With its advanced roof system and flexible layout, State Farm Stadium balances fan comfort, operational efficiency, and premium experiences for both sports and entertainment.
| Feature | Specification | Benefit | Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Home Team | Arizona Cardinals (NFL) | Consistent flagship venue | Stable local identity and revenue |
| Location | Glendale, Arizona | Proximity to Phoenix and Sky Harbor | Higher regional visitation and tourism |
| Roof Type | Retractable, cable operated | Flexible game day environment | Improved comfort and event scheduling |
| Capacity | 63,400 football, expandable to 72,000 | Versatile configuration | Optimized sightlines and revenue potential |
| Opened | 2006 | Modern amenities and technology | Competitive venue in major markets |
Arizona Cardinals Primary Home Venue
State Farm Stadium functions as the official home of the Arizona Cardinals, hosting all regular season and playoff games when selected. The design supports football specific configurations, with premium seating, ample locker room space, and integrated broadcast infrastructure that meets league standards.
Throughout the season, the stadium coordinates closely with the team, front office, and league partners to maintain consistent branding, fan safety, and operational reliability. Its central location in the Valley of the Sun also makes it a practical base for training activities, community outreach, and regional economic development.
Multipurpose Entertainment Hub
Beyond Cardinals games, State Farm Stadium is a multipurpose venue that hosts concerts, international soccer matches, and large scale conferences. The retractable roof allows events to proceed rain or shine, supporting a varied calendar that maximizes asset utilization and local economic impact.
Event producers value the flexible staging systems, advanced acoustics, and robust technical infrastructure, which support world class production values. This versatility has helped the stadium attract major tours, championship events, and cultural gatherings that draw visitors from across the country.
Design Technology Comfort Features
The architectural and engineering approach at State Farm Stadium emphasizes fan comfort and operational efficiency. A cantilevered roof provides shade and cover, while airflow management and seating sightlines are refined through detailed modeling and testing.
Hygiene, safety, and accessibility are integrated into the design, with upgraded restrooms, wide concourses, and clear wayfinding supporting diverse audiences. Technology enhancements, including high capacity Wi Fi and digital displays, keep fans connected and informed throughout their visit.
Economic Tourism Community Impact
State Farm Stadium plays a significant role in the regional economy by generating direct spending, supporting hospitality jobs, and attracting out of town visitors. Large events bring increased hotel occupancy, restaurant traffic, and ancillary retail activity to Glendale and nearby communities.
Ongoing partnerships between the venue, the Cardinals, local governments, and tourism boards focus on maximizing long term benefits while managing traffic, infrastructure needs, and community considerations. The stadium also supports charitable initiatives, youth programs, and workforce development opportunities in the area.
Optimizing Live Event Experiences at State Farm Stadium
- Check event specific seating maps to choose sections that match your view and comfort preferences
- Review parking and transportation options in advance to simplify arrival and reduce stress on event day
- Plan for weather and crowd flow, especially for concerts and festivals where doors open early
- Explore premium experiences, such as club seating or VIP packages, for enhanced amenities and convenience
- Stay informed on entry policies, prohibited items, and fan guidelines to ensure a smooth visit
FAQ
Reader questions
Can concerts and large events still happen if it rains at State Farm Stadium?
The retractable roof can be closed to ensure events proceed on schedule, protecting guests and equipment while preserving the full event experience.
How does the Arizona Cardinals schedule work at State Farm Stadium during the season?
The team plays the majority of its home games at the stadium, with exact dates and matchups set by the NFL schedule and adjusted as needed for television and logistics.
Are stadium tours available for fans who want to see behind the scenes at State Farm Stadium?
Guided tours typically provide access to locker rooms, the press box, the field level, and other exclusive areas, offering a look at how the venue supports events year round.
What transportation options exist for reaching State Farm Stadium on event days?
Fans can use rideshare, public transit, park and ride services, and event specific shuttles, with traffic management plans in place to streamline arrivals and departures around the stadium.