Lower.com Field Guide
Entry, transit, rideshare, parking, and game-day logistics for Columbus.
Last updated: 3/4/2026
Key logistics
| Bag policy | Clear bags up to 12" x 6" x 12" are permitted, as well as small clutches (smaller than 5"x8"x1"). Diaper bags and medical bags are also permitted and subject to inspection. Prohibited bags can be returned to vehicles or utilize the Bag Check tent located on the sidewalk between the AEP and CoverMyMeds Gate, or outside the Tipico Sportsbook Gate on the northwest corner of Lower.com Field. |
|---|---|
| Doors open | Gates typically open 1.5 hours before kickoff. For some events, doors may open two hours before the game. Club spaces remain open for 1 hour past the final whistle. |
| Cashless? | Lower.com Field is a cashless venue. Cash2Card kiosks are located throughout the stadium for guests to convert cash to a prepaid debit card. |
| Rideshare zone | Dedicated rideshare drop-off and pick-up zones are located on Hanover Street, just south of Nationwide Boulevard. |
| Re-entry | Re-entry is generally not permitted for all Lower.com Field events. Once guests exit the secured area, they will not be able to re-enter. |
| Transit | Lower.com Field is easily accessible by car, bus, bike, or on foot. The Central Ohio Transit Authority (COTA) offers bus service with multiple routes stopping near the Arena District. A pedestrian bridge connects the Olentangy Trail to Astor Park, making it easy to walk or bike from surrounding neighborhoods. CoGo stations are available in the Arena District, and Franklinton Cycle Works offers free bike valet service. |
Parking
Pre-purchasing parking is recommended to avoid traffic and ensure a spot. There are numerous surface lots and parking garages in the Arena District, with 6,300 spaces within a 10-minute walk and 13,000 within a 15-minute walk. Matchday parking options include Belmont 1-5 parking garages, Neil Ave, Marconi Arena, McConnell, and Brodbelt lots.
Family & accessibility
- Strollers: Strollers and car seats are permitted inside Lower.com Field and are subject to security screening. These items may not block aisles, seats, or stairwells.
- Family perks: Baby changing stations are located in restrooms throughout the stadium. Sensory rooms are also available.
Culture layer
- Signature food: Lower.com Field features a variety of local vendors offering diverse cuisine alongside traditional stadium fare. Highlights include Hot Chicken Takeover (Nashville-style spicy chicken sandwiches), Dos Hermanos Tacos (tacos and burritos), North High Brewing & Land-Grant Brewing Co. (craft beers), and Donatos Pizza (a Columbus staple). Stadium favorites like hot dogs, chicken tenders, and soft pretzels are also available.
- Local tradition: Local fan traditions for the Columbus Crew include the 'March to the Match' from Battelle Plaza, where fans gather before heading to the stadium. The Nordecke, a passionate supporters' group, leads chants and often has a pre-match block party in Battelle Plaza. Yellow smoke is released from the Crew smokestack at Lower.com Field as a tradition.
Verified places nearby
- Woodlands Tavern1200 W Third Ave, Columbus, OH 43212 · GrandviewWhat to order: Burritos, and a general selection of food and drinks.
- Grandview Cafe1455 W 3rd Ave, Columbus, OH 43212 · Grandview HeightsWhat to order: Menu goes beyond typical bar food (specifics not provided in snippets).