Ford Field Guide
Entry, transit, rideshare, parking, and game-day logistics for Detroit.
Last updated: 3/3/2026
Key logistics
| Bag policy | In accordance with NFL Security Guidelines, only clear plastic, vinyl, or PVC bags not exceeding 12" x 6" x 12" are permitted. One-gallon clear plastic freezer bags (Ziploc or similar) and small clutch bags (not exceeding 4.5" x 6.5") are also allowed. Exceptions are made for medically necessary items after proper inspection. Diaper bags are not permitted, but infant items (bottles, formula) in a clear bag are allowed with a child. |
|---|---|
| Doors open | For Detroit Lions games, gates typically open two (2) hours prior to kickoff. Pride Plaza, an official pre-game tailgate, usually opens at 10:30 a.m. on home game days. Tailgate and parking lots at Eastern Market open at 8 a.m. for 1 p.m. games, 11 a.m. for 4 p.m. games, and 3 p.m. for 8 p.m. games. |
| Cashless? | Ford Field is a cashless venue. No cash is accepted at concessions, retail locations, or other points of sale. Guests can convert cash into a pre-paid debit card at designated 'Cash to Card' machines located inside the stadium at various sections (e.g., Section 100 Gate A Ticket Office Window #3, Section 127 Gate D, Section 112/113 Gate G). |
| Rideshare zone | Designated rideshare drop-off and pickup zones are available. A primary location is at Brush Street and Montcalm Street. Another designated area is the southbound service drive accessible from Mack Avenue. Uber is an official rideshare partner and has an exclusive pickup and drop-off point along the northbound E Fisher Service Drive, between Woodward and John R on game days. Guests are advised that no parking or waiting is allowed after drop-off. |
| Transit | Public transportation options include the QLine Streetcar, with stops near Montcalm Street and Grand Circus Park, and the Detroit People Mover, with a station at Grand Circus Park, both within walking distance of Ford Field. Several Detroit Department of Transportation (DDOT) bus routes (e.g., 16, 23, 53) also stop near the stadium. The DAX (Detroit Air Express) bus provides a direct route from Detroit Metro Airport to downtown, about a 10-minute walk from Ford Field. |
Parking
The Ford Field Parking Deck is located on St. Antoine across from Gate G. Parking can be purchased and reserved in advance through the Detroit Lions' website. Alternative driving routes are suggested to avoid common traffic congestion points around the stadium.
Family & accessibility
- Strollers: Strollers are generally not permitted inside Ford Field. However, suiteholders may bring in strollers and infant car seat carriers after inspection, provided they are brought through designated suite entrances at Gate A and Gate D.
- Family perks: Ford Field offers various family-friendly amenities, including 13 family restrooms, the UMCU Cub Club Fan Cave (exploring Lions history), and a sensory room located on the second level (accessible via Guest Services). Nursing mothers have access to three nursing rooms and a Mamava Nursing Pod (one by Section 133 – Gate B, others on Levels 4 and 5 of the Bodman Suites). Sensory Kits are available at Guest Services. Family value meal deals are offered at concession stands. Kids can receive a 'First Lions Game Certificate' and enjoy free face painting at the UMCU Cub Club Fan Cave.
Culture layer
- Signature food: Popular food options at Ford Field include Detroit classics like Slows BBQ and Billy Sims BBQ. Coney dogs are also a signature Detroit item. Newer offerings have included a coney flight, pho brisket sandwich, butter chicken samosas, and a 'Jahmyr Gibbs' Dash Combo' (a smashburger topped with pizza sauce, pepperoni, and mozzarella).
- Local tradition: Strong local fan traditions include extensive tailgating at popular spots like Eastern Market and the official Pride Plaza on Brush Street. Celebrating with Detroit's classic coney dogs after a game is also a common tradition. The team's mascot, Roary the Lion, is known for his community involvement.
Verified places nearby
- Parlay DetroitNot explicitly stated in snippets but described as steps away from stadiums. · DowntownWhat to order: Elevated offerings, tasty tailgating fare.