Autumn brings football, and the only thing better than watching a game on a TV with lots of snacks is NFL tailgating … with lots of snacks! Whether you have a local NFL team or you’re traveling to see a game, RV tailgating is a great way to experience an NFL game.
Tailgating in an RV is so much more pleasant than tailgating out of a car. You’ll have running water, a fridge, and a convenient way to cook. You can warm up inside on cold game days … or cool off on hot ones. And you can bring along a TV to make sure you keep up with all of the other games you’re missing to be at this one.
But where should you take your RV for an NFL tailgate? You’ll have fun no matter which game you attend, but there are definitely some NFL tailgating experiences that are better than others.
East Coast NFL Tailgating
If you’re on the East Coast, there are a couple of fantastic stadiums that provide an excellent NFL tailgating experience. Also, having an RV with a furnace is definitely a plus in these sometimes-chilly locations.
Best Traditions – Philadelphia Eagles in Pennsylvania
When it comes to tailgating, Eagles fans know how to do things right. Fans show up hours before kickoff to grill up local foods – especially Philly cheesesteaks and grilled birds of all kinds – and you’ll be engulfed in a sea of green and white decorations.
Many tailgating groups also set up block party-style gatherings with DJs, TV screens, and Eagles-themed RVs and buses.
If you aren’t too tired when the tailgating is finished, we highly recommend exploring Philly. This city is home to such attractions as The Franklin Institute, Independence Hall, and the Liberty Bell. You also have plenty of campgrounds in Philadelphia and the surrounding area if you need RV camping near Lincoln Financial Field.
Most Intimate – Buffalo Bills in New York
Comment
byu/KBraught from discussion
innfl
Highmark Stadium is outside of Buffalo in a suburban area, and it’s a more intimate experience than you might find in a big city. The sense of community is amazing, as is the food. Expect to find some of the best wings (of course!), along with shots of cherry liqueur dispensed from a bowling ball.
You can also observe (or participate in!) some wild tailgating, including the fan ritual of smashing tables by leaping onto them. These antics have led to plenty of viral moments during football season.
While in the area, be sure to head into Buffalo to see the Albright-Knox Art Gallery, the Buffalo Zoo, or Frank Lloyd Wright’s Martin House.
If you want RV camping near Buffalo’s stadium, stay at one of the campgrounds in Buffalo or in the surrounding area.
West Coast NFL Stadiums
Heading to the West Coast? There are some great NFL tailgating stadiums for tailgating here as well. What’s more, the west side of the country is the perfect place to go RVing, and you’re sure to have an awesome time in your motorhome before and after the game.
Most Exciting – Seattle Seahawks in Washington
While the location of the Seahawks’ stadium makes it tricky to create a classic tailgating scene, these enthusiastic fans don’t seem to mind. The excitement in the air before games is palpable, and Lumen Field has got to be one of the most impressive football fields in the NFL. The Seahawks don’t allow tailgating in official stadium lots, but there are private lots nearby where people pregame and enjoy the day.
Seattle is an incredible city, so be sure to spend time exploring. See the Space Needle, the Museum of Pop Culture, and Pike Place Market.
There are plenty of campgrounds in Seattle where you can stay while you’re in town for the game.
Best Community – San Francisco 49ers in California
Levi’s Stadium, where the Niners play, isn’t actually in San Francisco. It’s in the nearby suburban city of Santa Clara. This is probably just as well, because there’s a lot more room to park and spread out here than in crowded, downtown SF. There’s also more room for NFL tailgating fun at a 49ers game! You’ll find lots of high-energy cheer here, which Silicon Valley techies mix with loyal Bay Area fans. You’ll also find tasty barbecue setups, seafood boils, and lots of wine and craft beer (you’re not far from Napa, after all!).
You can find campgrounds in San Francisco and RV camping near Levi’s Stadium where you can stay while you explore the Bay Area.
Southern NFL Stadiums
The South is one of the best places for amazing football experiences, and that includes NFL tailgating. Head down south for some sunshine and football fun.
Most Welcoming – Miami Dolphins in Florida
Miami Dolphins fans are notoriously friendly, providing visitors with a good old-fashioned southern welcome. We also really love the year-round sunshine and beautiful weather in the state of Florida. Alongside traditional tailgate fare, you’ll find delicious food with local flavors, like Cuban sandwiches, grilled lobster tails, and churrasco steak. Try cafecity (Cuban espresso) or tropical cocktails to wash everything down.
While in Miami, make sure to head to the beach and visit the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens. You’ll also find plenty of options for RV camping near Hard Rock stadium at campgrounds near Miami.
Best Barbecue – Houston Texans in Texas
If you want a little bit of delicious barbecue with your NFL tailgating experience, try the Houston Texans tailgating scene. These folks take their barbecue seriously, and it’s not uncommon to see dozens of smokers set up before the game. The resulting barbecue is often considered the best in the NFL.
There’s lots to do in Houston before and after the game. We especially love Space Center Houston and the Houston Zoo. There are also lots of campgrounds where you can stay in Houston while you visit.
Midwest NFL Stadiums
The Midwest is another fantastic area of the country for football. Whether you’re up north in Wisconsin or further south in Missouri, you’re sure to have an amazing NFL tailgate experience in the middle of the country.
Fan Favorite – Green Bay Packers in Wisconsin
Many would argue that Lambeau Field in Green Bay is the top place in the country to tailgate. Green Bay fans are both loyal and fun, which makes a visit to the famous Tundra Tailgate Zone Extra a blast. Here you’ll find food, beer, live music, and giant monitors that show the games.
Of course, you’ll want to explore Green Bay while you’re there. We recommend seeing the National Railroad Museum and the Green Bay Botanical Garden. You can also find plenty of RV camping near the Green Bay Packers and campgrounds in Green Bay where you can stay while you visit.
Most Creative Tailgating Vehicles – Denver Broncos in Colorado
Broncos fans are nothing if not creative. Attending a tailgate event at Empower Field means seeing school buses, limos, and of course, RVs. Many people also build truck bed patios and rooftop structures on their buses, and it’s not unusual to see Broncos-inspired art such as ice sculptures here and there.
After the game, be sure to give yourself some time to explore Denver. This city boasts such attractions as the Denver Museum of Nature and Science and the Molly Brown House Museum. There are also lots of campgrounds around Denver and RV camping near Empower Field where you can stay.
Most Quirky Traditions – Cleveland Browns in Ohio
The Cleveland Browns have fans who put on an excellent NFL tailgate event, with some quirky traditions that we can’t get enough of. From “beer can chicken” to spiked cupcakes, there is plenty of food to go around, and the tradition of playing the AC/DC song “Thunderstruck” and drinking every time the word is said is certainly a fun one.
While in Cleveland, make sure to see some of the sights. The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame is a favorite, and the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo is perfect for kids. You can also find lots of campgrounds near Cleveland where you can stay.
Most Family-Friendly – Chicago Bears in Illinois
Football fans with kids will appreciate the family-friendly atmosphere offered by the Chicago Bears’ tailgating experience. The pre-game event almost always includes family favorites like Chicago-style hot dogs and Krispy Kreme doughnuts, and fans go all out with decorations.
When you’re finished with the game, be sure to explore Chicago a little. We love the Museum of Science and Industry, as well as the Shedd Aquarium. Also, there are plenty of campgrounds near Chicago to check out.
Most Loyal Fans – Minnesota Vikings in Minnesota
Since Minnesota is so far north, the state sees some pretty harsh weather during football season. Nevertheless, Vikings fans show up and have a great time before, during, and after games.
One of the best things about a Vikings tailgating event? The “Battlewagon,” an old delivery truck turned fan-mobile. It’s fully decked out and complete with horns, and anyone is welcome to take a peek inside.
In addition to great football, Minneapolis has plenty of attractions to check out. Make sure to see the Mall of America and the Walker Art Center. There are lots of top campgrounds in Minneapolis where you can stay as well.
Most Fun Antics- Kansas City Chiefs in Missouri
Go to any Kansas City Chiefs game and you’ll be treated to a fantastic tailgating experience. These events offer some of the only tailgating barbecue that rivals Texas, and the air is always filled with excitement. Best of all, Chiefs fans are definitely some of the most passionate in the country, and their antics are fun to witness.
Once the game is over, make sure to see Kansas City. Some of our favorite spots include the Harry S. Truman Presidential Library and Museum and the various attractions located in Union Station. You can also book a campground in Kansas City and stay nearby.
Northeast NFL Stadiums
Finally, we must mention our favorite Northeast stadium for an NFL tailgating. It’s in Massachusetts, so be ready for gorgeous fall colors and some pretty cold weather to go along with your football fun.
Best Seafood – New England Patriots in Massachusetts
The weather in Boston can get pretty cold during football season. In fact, Patriots fans often brave blizzards in order to do their tailgating. Luckily, they tend to have hot foods like clam chowder to help warm them up. Other types of seafood are also plentiful, and superfans show up extra early to cook a feast.
Boston is full of amazing things to see and do. If you’re looking for ways to fill your time after the game, we recommend the New England Aquarium and the Museum of Science. You can also find plenty of places to camp near Boston while you explore the city.
NFL Stadium RV Tailgating Comparison
Here’s a look at many of the NFL stadiums that allow RV tailgating at official stadium lots before games. If the NFL stadium you’re headed to does not allow RV tailgating, you can often find great places to party in nearby private lots.
| Team & Stadium | RV/oversize tailgating in stadium lots | Overnight in stadium lots? | Where to park (official lots) | Tailgate vibe | Nearby campgrounds (drive time) |
| Bills — Highmark Stadium | Yes – RV & oversize lots available | No | Team-managed RV areas | Rowdy, famous for big pregame parties | Colden Lakes Resort (~17 min); Darien Lake Campground (~30–40 min) |
| Patriots — Gillette Stadium | Yes – designated oversize/RV areas | No | Stadium oversize lots | Organized but festive | Normandy Farms (~5–10 min) |
| Eagles — Lincoln Financial Field | Yes – oversize permitted with proper pass | No | Sports Complex official lots | South Philly food culture | Clarksboro KOA (~20–25 min) |
| Chiefs — GEHA Field at Arrowhead | Yes — oversize vehicle parking with advance pass | No | Oversize/RV zones in stadium lots | Legendary KC BBQ & music | Worlds of Fun Village (~15–20 min) |
| Browns — Cleveland Browns Stadium | Yes — Muni Lot tailgating allows RVs | No | Municipal Lot | Dawg Pound rowdiness | Streetsboro KOA (~40–50 min) |
| Cowboys — AT&T Stadium | Yes — Lot 14 for RVs/buses | Sometimes (special events only) | Lot 14 | Huge, flashy tailgates | Dallas/Arlington KOA (~10 min) |
| Texans — NRG Stadium | Yes — all lots allow RVs (sometimes extra space required) | No | Any official lot with multiple passes | Every lot becomes a BBQ zone | South Main RV Park (~10 min) |
| Titans — Nissan Stadium | Yes — designated RV/oversize areas | No | Official Titans oversize lots | Music + food culture | Nashville KOA Resort (~15–20 min) |
| Broncos — Empower Field at Mile High | Yes — RVs allowed with enough spaces | No | Lot C (opens earliest) | Mile High brunch + beer | Chatfield State Park (~25–35 min) |
| Raiders — Allegiant Stadium | Yes — pre-game only, no during/after | No | Stadium parking lots | Strict rules but Vegas energy | Oasis Las Vegas RV Resort (~10–15 min) |
| Cardinals — State Farm Stadium | Yes — Lot F for oversize, Sportsman’s Park | No | Lot F / Sportsman’s Park | Lawn parties + fan zones | Leaf Verde RV Resort (~20–25 min) |
Frequently Asked Questions About NFL Tailgating
Here are a few of the most common questions about NFL tailgating.
What NFL stadiums allow RV tailgating?
Lots of NFL stadiums allow RV tailgating. Most stadiums require a special parking pass for oversized vehicles like RVs. You’ll want to secure a pass well before the game in case they sell out. Sometimes, there are also private lots around NFL stadiums where you can tailgate.
Here are a few of the stadiums that allow tailgating:
East Coast
- Buffalo Bills: Highmark Stadium in Orchard Park, NY
- New England Patriots: Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, MA
- Philadelphia Eagles: Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia, PA
Midwest
- Green Bay Packers: Lambeau Field in Green Bay, WI
- Kansas City Chiefs: GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City, MO
- Cleveland Browns: Cleveland Browns Stadium in Cleveland, OH
South
- Dallas Cowboys: AT&T Stadium in Arlington, TX
- Houston Texans: NRG Stadium in Houston, TX
- Tennessee Titans: Nissan Stadium in Nashville, TN
West Coast & Mountain
- Denver Broncos: Empower Field at Mile High in Denver, CO
- Las Vegas Raiders: Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas, NV
- Los Angeles Rams/Chargers: SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, CA
- Arizona Cardinals: State Farm Stadium in Glendale, AZ
- Seattle Seahawks: Lumen Field in Seattle, WA
Do NFL stadiums have RV parking or hookups?
Many NFL stadiums do have RV and oversized vehicle parking. However, spots are limited and you almost always need to buy a special pass in advance. You can usually buy these parking passes on the same team ticketing site where you purchase tickets to the game.
However, almost no NFL stadiums offer hookups for RVs. Stadium RV parking is almost always dry camping with a place to park and set up. Sometimes, there are private RV parks and campgrounds near stadiums that have full hookups.
How much does it cost to park an RV at an NFL game?
Most parking passes to park an RV at an NFL game cost between $100-$200.
Can you tailgate overnight at NFL stadiums?
There are very few NFL stadiums that allow you to tailgate overnight. AT&T Stadium, home of the Dallas Cowboys, allows RVs to park overnight on occasion, but this isn’t a standard option at every game. Some stadiums will open RV overnight lots for special games like the Super Bowl, but that’s rare as well. You’d need to check in during the year you’re attending to see if that’s allowed.
If you do want to stay overnight in your RV before the game, your best bet is usually to check out nearby campgrounds. Many popular NFL stadiums have campgrounds nearby, so you can set yourself up to be close by when the stadium opens in the morning. There may also be private lots or businesses that allow overnight tailgating and that are close to the stadium.
There are great NFL tailgating experiences across the country. Pick one (or try college football tailgating), book your RV today, and plan a trip for the experience of a lifetime!
