Tailgating Parking Tips at Gillette Stadium

Patriots fans love a good session of pre- and post-game tailgating. But you can't really bring all of your favorite tailgating items along without finding a spot for your car. There are a few things to consider and many options of where to park when planning your trip to a football game at Gillette.

Gillette Stadium Lots

If you are one of the lucky cars to claim a spot near the stadium, the Gillette Stadium website provides an outline of pricing. Parking rates are $40 for cars, $125 for limos (enter P1 N from north or P7 S from the south), $125 for RVs (enter P10 N from the north, enter P11 from the south), $200 for buses (enter P10 N from the north, enter P11 from the south) and $40 for motorcycles (one per space). Bring cash because it is the only payment option.

Tailgating is welcomed by license, four hours before kickoff, and is only allowed in designated areas. Keep in mind that fire pits or any form of open fires are not allowed. However, according to the Gillette Stadium web page, guests can cook up their favorite foods over fire-burning devices that are contained and can easily be transported in the event of an emergency. It is expected that the grill is supervised at all times to avoid any issues.

VIP Parking and Club Suites

Ticketed visitors who will be watching the game from a Gillette Stadium Luxury Suite have access to VIP parking. This option is also available to those who become Putnam Club members. Information about either option can be obtained by emailing VIPsales@patriots.com or calling (508) 384-4370.

Other Parking Lots

You can find parking at surrounding lots as well. Parkwhiz.com features guaranteed parking that you can schedule ahead of time. There are also plenty of options off Route 1 including Lafayette House on Washington Street. Other options abound right outside the stadium if you are willing to walk from nearby restaurants or residential neighborhoods. Check out streets including North Street, Beach Street and Mechanic Street if you don't mind a short walk from residential areas where they allow 10 cars to park for a fee.

General Parking Tips

Try to carpool to avoid paying a hefty parking fee. Splitting the price multiple ways can easily keep the tailgating event on budget. Also, wear comfortable shoes because if you don't get a spot right by the stadium, you'll likely have to walk a mile or more to get to the game. It is also important to be patient. Even though Gillette is around 20 miles from Boston, traffic can make it a slow and steady ride to and from the games. Plan ahead and leave as early as you can to allow ample tailgating time. A great post-game idea is to visit Patriot Place to kill time and avoid sitting in traffic on the way home.

Check out Tailgate Fan to keep the party going at tailgatefan.cbslocal.com.

Michelle Levine is a creative energetic, young professional that is passionate about everything Boston has to offer. She loves to attend local events, dine out, and cook and wants to share her findings with you. Her work can be found on Examiner.com.