Arizona Cardinals Game Day Guide — State Farm Stadium
Getting to State Farm Stadium in Glendale
State Farm Stadium sits in the heart of the Glendale sports and entertainment corridor, just off Loop 101 at the Cardinal Drive exit. If you are driving from Phoenix, plan for roughly 25 minutes on a non-game day — on game day, add at least 45 minutes. Take the Loop 101 to the 95th Avenue or Cardinals Way exits and follow the event signage.
Parking lots open three hours before kickoff. Lots 1 and 2 (closest to the stadium) fill fastest. Budget around $30 to $50 for preferred lots, or save money by parking at Westgate City Center and walking a short five minutes to the gates. Rideshare drop-off is on the north side of the stadium along Glendale Avenue.
Tailgating and Pre-Game at Westgate
Westgate City Center is the unofficial Cardinals pregame headquarters. The open-air entertainment district fills with red jerseys hours before kickoff. You will find TVs everywhere, outdoor bars, and a festive crowd that turns the whole block into a party.
- Yard House — Multiple floors, 100-plus beers on draft, and giant TVs make it a reliable spot for sports fans.
- Topgolf Swing Suite — If you get there early enough, the simulator bays at the Westgate location are a fun way to kill time before gates open.
- Dave and Busters — Great for groups with kids or anyone who wants arcade games alongside wings and beer.
Check the ZonaHaps weekend events calendar for Cardinals game day parties and specials happening near the stadium.
Inside State Farm Stadium — Food and Drinks
The stadium has upgraded its food program in recent years. Look for Arizona-themed options on the main concourse, including local BBQ, loaded nachos, and craft beers from AZ-based breweries. Four Peaks Brewing products are available at several concession stands, so grab a Kilt Lifter or Sunbru if you want a taste of local craft beer while you watch the game.
The Modelo Cantina on the main level is one of the better bar experiences inside the stadium, with full cocktails and a lively crowd even during timeouts.
What to Know Before You Go
- State Farm Stadium uses a clear bag policy — only bags 12 by 6 by 12 inches or smaller are allowed in.
- The stadium is fully cashless. Have a card or mobile pay ready at every concession stand.
- Gates open 90 minutes before kickoff for most regular season games.
- The stadium has a retractable roof and a roll-out natural grass field — one of the most unique setups in the NFL.
After the game, Westgate stays busy for another hour or two win or lose. It is the easiest place to decompress, grab a late bite, and wait out the parking lot traffic before heading home.
For more West Valley things to do beyond Cardinals season, browse activities and events across Glendale, Peoria, Surprise, and Goodyear on ZonaHaps.
Stay in the loop
Get the Friday Arizona events email
Free. One email a week with what's happening across the Valley. No spam, unsubscribe anytime.
Happening soon