Levi’s Stadium (Santa Clara, California)

nfl stadium field full with crowd watching the game during daytime

Levi’s® Stadium, located in Santa Clara, California, is a state-of-the-art, multi-purpose venue and the proud home of the NFL’s San Francisco 49ers. Opened in 2014, it quickly gained recognition as one of the most technologically advanced and environmentally sustainable stadiums in the world, earning accolades such as Sports Facility of the Year by Sports Business Journal and Venue of the Year by The Stadium Business Awards.

Designed with a focus on fan experience and environmental responsibility, Levi’s® Stadium offers a premium setting for a wide array of events, from thrilling NFL games and international soccer matches to blockbuster concerts and major championships. This guide provides essential information for understanding the stadium’s features, how to attend events, and tips for planning your visit.

History and Design

The vision for Levi’s® Stadium was to create a next-generation venue that seamlessly integrates technology and sustainability. Designed by HNTB and built by Turner/Devcon, the stadium’s construction was completed on July 17, 2014, with the first event, an MLS match, held on August 2, 2014. The San Francisco 49ers played their inaugural game at the stadium on September 14, 2014.

The stadium’s design takes full advantage of the Silicon Valley climate, featuring an open and airy structure. It is notable for its extensive environmental initiatives, including a 27,000 square-foot green roof atop the suite tower, solar panels that offset electricity usage, a high-efficiency geothermal water system, and recycled greywater systems. These features contribute to its LEED Gold certification, making it a benchmark for sustainable stadium design.

Key Information

Official Name: Levi’s® Stadium
Location: 4900 Marie P. DeBartolo Way, Santa Clara, CA 95054, USA
Opened: July 17, 2014
Primary Tenant: San Francisco 49ers (NFL)
Capacity: Approximately 68,500 (expandable to 75,000 for major events like the Super Bowl)
Cost: Approximately $1.2 billion

Venue Highlights and Amenities

Levi’s® Stadium offers a world-class experience with a focus on cutting-edge technology and fan comfort:

  • Seating and Premium Options:
    • Capacity: Standard capacity of 68,500, expandable to 75,000 for major events.
    • Lower Bowl: Features the largest lower bowl in the NFL, with over 45,000 seats, bringing fans closer to the action.
    • Luxury Suites: 174 luxury suites offering private, high-end experiences.
    • Club Seats: 8,500 club seats provide wider, cushioned seating, access to semi-private entrances, and exclusive lounges (e.g., BNY Mellon Clubs, East Field Club, United Club, Levi’s® 501® Club, Yahoo Fantasy Football Lounge) with upscale dining and full-service bars.
  • Technology and Connectivity:
    • High-Speed Wi-Fi: Designed to provide high-speed internet access for all 68,500 fans simultaneously, ensuring seamless connectivity.
    • Cashless/Ticketless Environment: The stadium aims to enable visitors to present passes, order food, and make purchases using only their mobile devices.
    • Video Boards: Two gigantic 48ft tall HD-quality LED video boards in each end zone, along with a 3.6ft-tall “ribbon” border display wrapping around the inner bowl, enhance the gameday experience.
  • Sustainability Features: A prominent green roof, solar panels, and water recycling systems underscore the stadium’s commitment to environmental responsibility.
  • 49ers Museum: A 20,000 sq ft museum, sponsored by Sony, dedicated to the history of the San Francisco 49ers, offering interactive exhibits and educational programs.
  • Concessions and Dining: A wide range of food and beverage options are available throughout the stadium, including upscale dining in premium areas.

Major Events Hosted

Levi’s® Stadium’s versatility and state-of-the-art facilities make it a prime choice for high-profile events:

  • National Football League (NFL): Home to the San Francisco 49ers, hosting all regular season home games and playoff matches.
  • Super Bowl: Hosted Super Bowl 50 in 2016 and is scheduled to host Super Bowl LX (60) in 2026.
  • FIFA World Cup: Selected as a host venue for multiple matches during the 2026 FIFA World Cup (five group stage matches and one Round of 32 match).
  • Soccer (Football): Hosts international friendly matches and major tournaments, including matches during the CONMEBOL Copa América.
  • Concerts: A popular stop for major touring artists (e.g., The Rolling Stones, Morgan Wallen).
  • Other Sporting Events: Has hosted WWE’s WrestleMania 31 (2015), NHL Stadium Series games (2015), and the College Football Playoff National Championship (2019).
  • Community Events: Configurable for various other events, including motocross, conferences, and mass vaccination sites.

How to Attend Events at Levi’s Stadium

Tickets

  • Official Purchase: The primary and most recommended way to purchase tickets is through Ticketmaster.com or by calling Ticketmaster. For 49ers games, tickets can also be purchased in person at the Visa Box Office.
  • 49ers Tickets: Season tickets, premium seating, club seats, group tickets, and single event tickets are available directly through the Levi’s® Stadium website.
  • Accessible Seating: Accessible seating options (wheelchair, companion, semi-ambulatory) can be purchased via Ticketmaster.com. For specific inquiries or exchanges for 49ers games, email ADAexchange@levisstadium.com.
  • Mobile Tickets: The stadium primarily uses mobile ticketing. Guests are encouraged to manage their tickets using the official 49ers Mobile App and have them ready to scan upon entry.
  • Resale: The 49ers and Levi’s® Stadium work with authorized resale platforms. Be cautious of unofficial sources.
  • Arrival: Arrive early to allow ample time for security checks, finding your seats, and enjoying pre-event activities.
  • Prohibited Items: Check the stadium’s official website for a comprehensive list of prohibited items, which typically include large bags, outside food and beverages, and umbrellas.

Stadium Tours and the 49ers Museum

Levi’s® Stadium offers engaging tours that provide a unique, behind-the-scenes look at the stadium and the rich history of the San Francisco 49ers.

49ers Museum

  • Overview: Located within Levi’s® Stadium, the 20,000 square-foot 49ers Museum presented by SHARP is a treasure trove of memorabilia, interactive exhibits, and immersive experiences celebrating the team’s storied past.
  • Highlights:
    • “49ers Forever” Theater Film: A 17-minute signature film in a 50′ x 18′ screen theater that tells the inspiring story of the 49ers.
    • Interactive Exhibits: Features gesture-based games, multi-touch tables, and an in-depth interactive timeline covering eight eras of 49ers history.
    • Hall of Fame Gallery: Life-sized statues of 49ers Hall of Famers in their signature poses.
    • Championship Trophies: See the team’s five Lombardi trophies and championship rings.
    • Historical Artifacts: Game-worn jerseys, historic equipment, and other artifacts.
    • Bill Walsh Coaching Universe: A re-creation of Coach Bill Walsh’s office and an interactive exhibit detailing his impact.
    • Denise DeBartolo York Education Center: A state-of-the-art learning lab for STEM education, utilizing interactive technology.
  • Tickets: Museum tickets can be purchased separately. On game days, fans must purchase both a game ticket and a museum ticket to access the museum. Prices are approximately $49 per ticket, with discounts for children, military, and Santa Clara residents ($37).
  • Hours: Typically open on 49ers gamedays (3 hours prior to kickoff) and on non-game days, usually Friday to Sunday from 10 AM to 5 PM. Check the official website for the most current schedule.

Stadium Tours

  • Overview: Guided tours offer an exclusive opportunity to explore areas normally off-limits to the public, providing insights into the stadium’s operations, design, and the fan/player experience.
  • Inclusions: Tours typically include:
    • Field Access: Step onto the hallowed turf where the 49ers play.
    • Locker Room Access: Visit the 49ers’ locker room, seeing where players prepare. (Subject to availability due to team schedules).
    • Player’s Tunnel: Walk through the tunnel onto the field.
    • Luxury Suites & Premium Areas: Explore the high-end hospitality spaces.
    • Behind-the-Scenes Insights: Knowledgeable guides share fascinating facts about the stadium’s architecture, engineering, and history.
    • Photo Opportunities: Exclusive chances to take memorable photos in iconic locations.
  • Booking: Stadium tours can be booked through the Levi’s® Stadium website or via platforms like Ticketmaster. Reservations are recommended, especially for specific dates.
  • Duration: Tours typically last around 60-90 minutes.
  • Important Notes: Tour routes and access to specific areas (like the locker room or field) are subject to change based on stadium events and team schedules. Comfortable, closed-toe shoes are recommended.

Getting to Levi’s Stadium

Levi’s® Stadium is located in Santa Clara, near major highways and public transportation routes.

1. By Air:

  • Norman Y. Mineta San José International Airport (SJC): The closest major airport, approximately 12 miles from Levi’s® Stadium.
  • San Francisco International Airport (SFO): Approximately 30 miles north of Santa Clara.
  • Oakland International Airport (OAK): Approximately 35 miles northeast of Santa Clara.

2. By Public Transportation:

Public transit is highly recommended, especially for major events, to avoid traffic and parking challenges.

  • Valley Transportation Authority (VTA) Light Rail: The most direct route for the greater South Bay area. VTA Light Rail (Green Line or Orange Line) drops off and picks up passengers at the Great America Station, located on the north side of the stadium, just steps away from the entrance. Accessible courtesy transportation/wheelchair service is available from this station to the stadium’s west gates.
  • VTA Bus: Offers a full schedule of city buses servicing the local South Bay, with stops at the intersection of Tasman Drive and Great America Parkway, and Tasman Drive and Calle Del Sol.
  • Caltrain: For visitors from San Francisco and the Peninsula, take Caltrain to the Mountain View Station, then transfer to the VTA Light Rail (Orange Line) for direct access to the stadium.
  • ACE (Altamont Corridor Express) Train: Provides direct service to Levi’s® Stadium from Stockton, Livermore, Pleasanton, and Fremont, stopping at Great America Station for select events.
  • Capitol Corridor Train: Offers services from Auburn, Sacramento, Oakland, and San Jose, with connections to the stadium.
  • Bicycle: Free guest bicycle parking is available outside Gate A and Gate C for NFL events (and Gate C only for non-NFL events). The Silicon Valley Bike Coalition often provides staff to check bikes in and out.

3. By Car & Parking:

Driving to Levi’s® Stadium is possible, but pre-planning for parking is essential.

  • Address for Navigation: 4900 Marie P. DeBartolo Way, Santa Clara, CA 95054.
  • Major Highways: The stadium is near Highways 101, 237, and 880, as well as the Lawrence Expressway and San Tomas Expressway.
  • Parking Lots: Numerous team-operated parking lots (e.g., Blue, Green, Red, Yellow Lots) surround the stadium.
  • Pre-paid Parking: Highly recommended to pre-purchase parking passes online via the Levi’s® Stadium website as credit card lots on event day are limited and may be more expensive.
  • Directed Parking: Upon arrival, vehicles are typically directed to the next available space by attendants to maximize efficiency and safety.
  • Tailgating: Specific rules and designated areas apply to tailgating. Check the stadium’s parking FAQs for the latest policies.
  • Rideshare/Taxi: Designated drop-off and pick-up zones are available. Expect high demand and potential wait times after events.

Where to Stay Near Levi’s Stadium

Santa Clara and the surrounding Silicon Valley cities offer a wide range of accommodation options.

1. Hotels in Santa Clara (Closest & Most Convenient):

Staying in Santa Clara provides the most direct access to Levi’s® Stadium, often within walking distance or a very short drive.

2. Hotels in Nearby Cities (e.g., San Jose, Sunnyvale, Mountain View, Milpitas):

These cities are a short drive or public transit ride from Levi’s® Stadium and offer additional dining, shopping, and entertainment options.

Booking Tips:

  • Book Well in Advance: Hotels, especially those closest to the stadium, book up quickly during major events.
  • Consider Transport: Factor in travel time and convenience from your chosen accommodation to the circuit.
  • Use Reputable Booking Sites: Utilize well-known booking platforms like Booking.com, Expedia, or TripAdvisor to find and compare options. Always verify reviews.
  • Check Cancellation Policies: Ensure you understand the cancellation policies, especially when booking far in advance.
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Helpful Links for Planning Your Visit to Levi’s Stadium

Last Updated on July 18, 2025 by Sports Tourist

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