Football season is almost here. If you are a football fanatic, chances are you have been to more than one stadium in the league. Those who have visited many stadiums in the U.S. will tell you that not all stadiums are created equal. Some have gone above and beyond to provide fans with the best in local cuisine and beverage options. Others have spent all of their money on the latest technology, which also enhances the football fans' gaming experience. Here are five stadiums in the NFL that you must try to visit during the 2016 season:
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AT&T StadiumNot everyone is a fan of the Dallas Cowboys, but they do consider themselves to be "America's team." With this self-proclaimed title, it was no shock when they decided to build a massive 80,000-person capacity stadium. The AT&T Stadium in Arlington is just proof that everything in Texas is bigger. The stadium is designed with top-of-the-line features, including a retractable roof and one of the largest JumboTrons in the country.
In addition to all of that, AT&T Stadium offers more than just a place for fans to gather. This stadium is home to one of the top art galleries and also offers tours. Tours available include art gallery tours, VIP tours, self-guided tours and educational tours for schools.
AT&T Stadium is located at One AT&T Way in Arlington, Texas. For more information about the stadium or tours available call (817) 892-4000.
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CenturyLink FieldThis field in Seattle held the Guinness World Record for the loudest stadium in the NFL (this record was beat by Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City). Home to the Seattle Seahawks,
CenturyLink Field is located in the downtown Seattle area and offers views of both the Northwest section of the city and snow-covered mountain skylines. The CenturyLink Field offers many conveniences for fans, including wider concourses and 48 different concession areas on all levels. Guided tours of the stadium are also available.
CenturyLink Field is located at 800 Occidental Avenue South in Seattle. For more information about the tours available call (206) 381-7555.
Ford FieldLocated in Detroit, Michigan,
Ford Field is home to the Detroit Lions. This stadium opened back in 2001 and is located in a prime downtown spot close to the Tiger's Comerica Park. One of the best things about Ford Field is the variety of local ethnic eats available in the stadium. You can find everything from Greek restaurants serving gyros to Polish restaurants serving kielbasa. Local craft beers, such as Founder's All Day IPA, are also available at the stadium. When you are done watching the game you can take a short walk to the MGM Grand Detroit or the Greektown Casino Hotel where you play a little Blackjack or other casino-style games.
Ford Field is located at 2000 Brush Street in Detroit. For more information about tickets to games call (877) 212-8898.
Photo Credit: Scott Halleran /Allsport
Heinz FieldHome to the Pittsburgh Steelers, Heinz Field is located on the bank of the Ohio River. This stadium is designed like a horseshoe and offers a breathtaking view of the downtown skyline. There is also a Great Hall that is filled with tons of historical Steelers memorabilia. You are going to love attending a football game at Heinz Field, especially since these fans are some of the rowdiest in the country, thus making the games full of energy and excitement.
Those wanting a behind-the-scenes look of Heinz Field can join in on one of the different guided tours available. Tours will take guest into the FedEx Great Hall, clubs, luxury suites, press box, onto the field and much more.
Heinz Field is located 100 Art Rooney Avenue in Pittsburgh. For more information about tours call (412) 697-7150.
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Lucas Oil StadiumYou will be impressed by the brick building, which opened up in downtown Indianapolis in 2008 to be the home for the Indianapolis Colts.
Lucas Oil Stadium is located in the heart of downtown among all of the top restaurants, bars and hot spots. This stadium is one of the loudest in the league and the massive sliding glass window wall offers an impressive view of the city. If you love food, this is the stadium to visit this season. There are more than 350 kiosks serving up food and beer for spectators. So not only will you have a variety of choices -- the wait in line will not be long. Then after the game, you will have many restaurants, museums and points of interest all within walking distance.
Lucas Oil Stadium is located at 500 S. Capitol Avenue in Indianapolis. For more information call (317) 262-8600.
Put on your team's jersey and make plans to visit the top stadiums in the league. Even if you are not a sports fanatic or a fan of the home team, these stadiums are worth the visit.
Heather Landon (Heather Leigh Carroll) is a freelance writer with more than 20 years of experience. She has combined two of her passions - writing and travel - to share her experiences with others. You can read more of her articles at Examiner.com.
