SoFi Stadium (Inglewood, California)

SoFi Stadium, host of Super Bowl LXI

SoFi Stadium, located in Inglewood, California, is a groundbreaking sports and entertainment venue that has redefined the stadium experience. Opened in 2020, it stands as the home of two NFL teams, the Los Angeles Rams and the Los Angeles Chargers, and is the centerpiece of the sprawling Hollywood Park mixed-use development.

Known for its innovative indoor-outdoor design, cutting-edge technology, and massive scale, SoFi Stadium is more than just a sports arena; it’s a world-class entertainment destination. It has quickly become a premier location for major global events, including the Super Bowl, international soccer tournaments, and will play a significant role in the upcoming Olympic Games. This guide provides essential information for understanding SoFi Stadium’s unique features, how to attend events, and tips for planning your visit.

History and Design

The vision for SoFi Stadium was spearheaded by Rams Owner/Chairman E. Stanley Kroenke, aiming to create an unparalleled venue that blends seamlessly with the Southern California lifestyle and climate. Despite being located near an active earthquake fault and directly below flight paths to Los Angeles International Airport, the stadium’s design and construction overcame significant engineering challenges.

Designed by HKS Architects, SoFi Stadium is a marvel of modern architecture and engineering. Its most striking feature is the massive, translucent ETFE (ethylene tetrafluoroethylene) roof canopy that covers the stadium bowl, the 2.5-acre outdoor American Airlines Plaza, and a 6,000-seat performance venue. This unique roof provides shelter from the elements while maintaining an open-air feel and flooding the venue with natural light, reflecting the region’s indoor-outdoor living. The seating bowl itself is impressively set 100 feet below existing grade, a design choice influenced by FAA height restrictions, creating a unique, descending arrival experience for fans.

Key Information

Official Name: SoFi Stadium
Location: 1001 Stadium Dr, Inglewood, CA 90301, USA
Opened: September 8, 2020
Primary Tenants: Los Angeles Rams (NFL), Los Angeles Chargers (NFL)
Capacity: Approximately 70,000 (expandable up to 100,000 for special events)
Size: 3.1 million square feet (largest stadium in the NFL)
Cost: Approximately $5 billion (privately funded)

Venue Highlights and Amenities

SoFi Stadium offers an immersive and technologically advanced experience for every visitor:

  • The Oculus (Infinity Screen): A revolutionary, double-sided, elliptical video board suspended over the field. This 360-degree, 4K-quality screen ensures optimal viewing for every fan, displaying live action, replays, statistics, and interactive content.
  • Indoor-Outdoor Design: The stadium’s translucent roof and operable panels allow for natural light and airflow, creating an outdoor feel while offering protection from weather.
  • Connected Venues: Under the same roof canopy, SoFi Stadium, the American Airlines Plaza, and the YouTube Theater (6,000-seat performance venue) can host simultaneous events, creating a dynamic entertainment complex.
  • Premium Seating and Suites: The stadium boasts 260 luxury suites and 13,000 premium seats, offering exclusive access to over 12 different club spaces and 7 suite experiences. These areas provide luxurious amenities, upscale dining, and unparalleled views, some even placing fans directly behind the players.
  • Culinary Experience: A diverse array of dining options caters to all tastes, from classic stadium fare to gourmet offerings.
  • Accessibility: Designed with inclusivity in mind, the stadium provides extensive accommodations and accessible seating options, restrooms, and assisted listening devices to ensure a comfortable experience for all guests.
  • Hollywood Park Development: The stadium is the centerpiece of a nearly 300-acre mixed-use development that includes retail, residential, and green spaces, creating a vibrant destination beyond event days.

Major Events Hosted

SoFi 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 Los Angeles Rams and Los Angeles Chargers, hosting all regular season home games and playoff matches.
  • Super Bowl: Hosted Super Bowl LVI in 2022 and is scheduled to host Super Bowl LXI (61) in 2027.
  • FIFA World Cup: Selected as a host venue for multiple matches during the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
  • Olympic Games: Will co-host the Opening and Closing Ceremonies of the 2028 Summer Olympics, a historic first for the Games, sharing duties with the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum.
  • College Football Playoff National Championship: Hosted the championship game in January 2023.
  • International Soccer (Football): Hosted matches during the CONMEBOL Copa América and other international friendly games.
  • Concerts: A major stop for global music tours, attracting top artists like Taylor Swift, Metallica, Beyoncé, Ed Sheeran, and The Rolling Stones.
  • Other Events: Hosts various other large-scale events, including Monster Jam finals.

How to Attend Events at SoFi Stadium

Tickets

  • General Event Tickets: For most events at SoFi Stadium (excluding Rams and Chargers regular season games, which have dedicated channels), tickets are primarily sold through Ticketmaster.com. The SoFi Stadium Box Office (located at Entry 7) is open on non-event days Wednesday-Friday for ticket sales and on event days for assistance.
  • Los Angeles Rams Tickets:
  • Los Angeles Chargers Tickets:
  • Mobile Ticketing: SoFi Stadium operates with mobile-only tickets. Download the official SoFi Stadium mobile app to manage your tickets, add them to your mobile wallet, and expedite entry. Transferring tickets to each attendee’s device before arrival is highly recommended.
  • Prohibited Items: A strict clear bag policy is enforced. Only clear plastic, vinyl, or PVC bags not exceeding 12″ x 6″ x 12″ are permitted. Small clutches (4.5″ x 6.5″ or smaller) are also allowed. Review the stadium’s official policies for a full list of prohibited items.
  • Arrival: Plan to arrive early, especially for major events, to account for traffic, parking, and security checks. Gates typically open 2-3 hours before kickoff for NFL games and 1-2 hours for concerts/non-NFL events.

Stadium Tours

SoFi Stadium offers various guided tours that provide an exclusive, behind-the-scenes look at this architectural marvel and world-class venue. Tours are generally available daily on non-game/non-concert days.

Tour Types and Inclusions:

  • Stadium Tour: A guided tour (approximately 60-75 minutes) that offers a comprehensive look at the stadium. It typically includes field access, a locker room experience (subject to availability), and exclusive entrance to the Owner’s Club.
  • Stadium Tour PLUS: This option includes everything in the standard Stadium Tour, plus a $15 voucher to use at the official team store (“The Equipment Room”) or concession stands (excluding alcohol).
  • NFL Experience: An ultimate football experience that combines a 30-minute tour of the NFL’s West Coast headquarters with a 60-minute SoFi Stadium tour, along with a $15 shop or eat voucher. These tours are available on select days.
  • Rally Days: Special behind-the-scenes tours offered on select days before a Rams or Chargers home game, providing a unique pre-game atmosphere.
  • Field Trips: Educational tours tailored for students, focusing on the stadium’s design and operations, often including field activities.
  • Group Tours: Private guided tours available for groups of 20 or more guests, suitable for corporate events, birthday parties, and more.

Key Tour Highlights:

  • Field Access: Step onto the turf where NFL stars play (subject to availability).
  • Locker Room Experience: Visit the team locker rooms, seeing where players prepare.
  • Player Tunnel: Experience walking through the tunnel onto the field, just like the pros.
  • Premium Clubs & Suites: Explore the luxurious premium seating areas and exclusive club spaces.
  • Post-Game Interview Room: See where coaches and players address the media.
  • Owner’s Club: Gain exclusive access to this high-end area.
  • Kinsey Collection Art Exhibit: Some tours may include a limited-time exhibit featuring African American art and artifacts.
  • The Equipment Room (Team Store): An opportunity to purchase stadium-exclusive merchandise and gear.

Pricing (approximate, subject to change and taxes/fees):

  • Stadium Tour: From $56.65 per person
  • Stadium Tour PLUS: From $68.20 per person
  • NFL Experience: From $79.75 per person
  • Children under 4 are typically free.

Booking Tours:

  • Tours can be booked through Ticketmaster.com or the official SoFi Stadium Tours page.
  • Reservations are highly recommended, especially for specific dates and times, as tours are subject to availability.
  • SoFi Stadium Tours are also included as an option with multi-attraction passes like the Los Angeles CityPASS.

Practical Tips for Tours:

  • Arrival: Arrive approximately 20-30 minutes prior to your scheduled tour time for check-in.
  • Meeting Point: The SoFi Stadium Tours lobby is located at Entry 7, on the southwest side of the stadium, in the American Airlines Plaza area.
  • Parking: Complimentary parking is typically available for tour guests, often in Lot N. Follow stadium signage upon entry for the most up-to-date parking information.
  • Footwear: Comfortable, closed-toe shoes are highly suggested due to walking and potential on-field activities.
  • Bag Policy: The stadium’s clear bag policy applies to tours. Only clear bags (12″ x 6″ x 12″ or smaller) or small clutches (4.5″ x 6.5″ or smaller) are permitted.
  • Restrictions: Tripods, monopods, selfie sticks, large bags, and outside food/drinks (except one factory-sealed 20oz water bottle) are generally not allowed.
  • Subject to Change: Tour schedules, routes, stops, and field activities are subject to change without notice, particularly due to other stadium events. “No Field Access” days mean tours will not be permitted on the field.

Getting to SoFi Stadium

SoFi Stadium is located in Inglewood, California, with various transportation options available.

1. By Air:

  • Los Angeles International Airport (LAX): SoFi Stadium is conveniently located just three miles from LAX, making it highly accessible for out-of-town visitors.

2. By Public Transportation:

Public transit is a recommended option to avoid traffic congestion and parking costs, especially on event days.

  • Metro Rail & Shuttle:
    • Take the Metro C Line (Green) to the Hawthorne/Lennox Station.
    • A free Metro SoFi Stadium Shuttle service operates from this station to the stadium on NFL game days, starting approximately three hours before kickoff and running for about 1.5 hours after the game. The shuttle stop is conveniently located at the West Plaza entrance/exit of the station.
    • Metro Bus Line #212 and #40 also serve the area from Hawthorne/Lennox Station, providing alternative routes (with a small fare).
  • GTrans 7X Stadium Express (Sunday Only):
    • Gardena City Transit (GTrans) operates a shuttle service on Sundays between the Harbor Gateway Transit Center and SoFi Stadium.
    • This service costs $4 roundtrip and runs every 30 minutes. Free parking is available at the Harbor Gateway Transit Center.
  • Rally Bus: This service offers pre-booked bus rides from various pick-up points across Los Angeles, providing a convenient and stress-free way to get to the stadium for groups.

3. By Car & Parking:

Driving to SoFi Stadium is possible, but pre-planning for parking is essential.

  • Address for Navigation: 1001 Stadium Dr, Inglewood, CA 90301.
  • On-site Parking: SoFi Stadium offers approximately 16,000 on-site parking spots.
    • Pre-purchase Recommended: It is strongly advised to purchase parking passes online in advance via the SoFi Stadium website. Prices increase on event day, and availability may be limited.
    • Mobile Passes: All parking passes are mobile and must be displayed on your phone upon arrival.
    • Designated Zones: Parking passes are assigned to specific color-coded parking zones and gates. You must enter through the correct access point for your assigned zone.
    • Directed Parking: Stadium personnel will direct you to a specific parking space within your zone. Reserving spaces is not permitted.
    • Tailgating: Permitted only in designated parking lots (e.g., Hyundai Pink zone) for select events, and requires a purchased tailgating pass.
  • Off-site Parking: Numerous off-site lots are available in the surrounding area, some offering shuttle services to the stadium. This can be a more affordable option.
  • Rideshare/Taxi: Designated drop-off and pick-up locations are available. Expect heavy traffic and potential delays after events.

Where to Stay Near SoFi Stadium

Inglewood and the surrounding areas offer various hotel options, particularly convenient for those flying into LAX.

1. Hotels in Inglewood (Closest):

Staying in Inglewood provides the most direct access to SoFi Stadium, often within walking distance or a very short drive.

2. Hotels near LAX Airport (Convenient for Air Travelers):

Many hotels near LAX are just a short drive from SoFi Stadium and offer airport shuttle services.

Booking Tips:

  • Book Well in Advance: Accommodation, especially for major events like the Super Bowl or large concerts, will sell out quickly and at higher prices.
  • Consider Transport: Factor in travel time and convenience from your chosen accommodation to the stadium.
  • 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.
TripAdvisor

Helpful Links for Planning Your Visit to SoFi Stadium

Last Updated on July 18, 2025 by Sports Tourist

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