FirstEnergy Stadium Travel Guide

Thinking about catching a game at FirstEnergy Stadium? Here’s a handy guide to help you make the most of your visit. Whether you’re cheering on the Cleveland Browns by Lake Erie or heading to the Reading Fightin Phils at their FirstEnergy Stadium in Pennsylvania, getting there smoothly makes a big difference.

For Cleveland, you’ll get to the parking lots via East 9th Street, which connects easily from I-90 East or West (use Exit 173-C for Superior or Exit 174A for Lakeside Ave). The stadium’s right on the lake, so you get that cool urban vibe mixed with waterfront views—pretty unique for an NFL spot.

If you’re heading to the Reading FirstEnergy Stadium, just take the Turnpike West to the Morgantown Exit, follow 176 North to 422 West, then Route 12 East, and finally hop off at Route 61 South. The stadium’s just a block on your right. Coming from the south? It’s about 4 miles up Route 61 South, also on the right.

About FirstEnergy Stadium

FirstEnergy Stadium is Cleveland’s main NFL venue, mixing modern amenities with those lakeside views. You’ll find it right along Lake Erie, set up perfectly in downtown Cleveland.

Stadium History and Architecture

FirstEnergy Stadium opened in 1999 as Cleveland Browns Stadium, taking over for the old Municipal Stadium. In 2013, FirstEnergy Corporation bought the naming rights. The stadium’s bowl design features two main seating levels plus a partial third.

Steel and concrete details reflect Cleveland’s industrial roots. The open end lets you see Lake Erie and the city skyline from inside—pretty impressive. Renovations in 2014-2015 brought $120 million in upgrades.

The stadium holds 67,431 fans, but the layout keeps you closer to the field than in many other NFL stadiums. Designers even considered Lake Erie’s wind patterns to try and keep the weather from messing with the game too much.

Location in Downtown Cleveland

FirstEnergy Stadium’s address is 100 Alfred Lerner Way, right on Cleveland’s North Coast Harbor. The spot gives you awesome waterfront views and puts you close to all the city action.

You can walk to the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame or the Great Lakes Science Center in just a few minutes. Hotels, restaurants, and entertainment are all within about 15 minutes on foot.

The RTA Waterfront Line stops near the stadium entrance, making public transit a solid option. If you drive, you’ll find plenty of parking nearby, but prices definitely jump on game days. Parking a few blocks away in downtown lots and walking in usually saves you some cash.

Key Features and Amenities

Most seats offer solid sight lines, and two giant scoreboards give you replays and updates. The Club Level has climate-controlled lounges, better food, and private restrooms.

Food stands serve up Cleveland favorites—think Polish Boys, pierogies, and local craft beers. The Browns Pro Shop sells team gear all year, not just on game days.

Modern perks include:

• Free Wi-Fi throughout the stadium
• Mobile ticketing and food ordering
• Family restrooms on each level
• Wheelchair accessible seating
• First aid stations all over

Between sections, you’ll spot displays celebrating Browns history and Cleveland sports legends. The stadium also hosts concerts, international soccer, and college football games year-round.

Attending a Cleveland Browns Game

Watching the Cleveland Browns at home is more than just a football game—it’s a whole experience, with deep traditions and an electric crowd.

Game Day Atmosphere

Game days at Huntington Bank Field (the new name for FirstEnergy Stadium) feel supercharged. Lake Erie provides a dramatic backdrop, and you can sense the excitement building hours before kickoff.

Browns fans pack the nearby lots for tailgating. The Muni Lot opens early and fills up fast with folks grilling, tossing footballs, and just soaking in the day.

Weather’s always a factor. Early in the season, it’s usually mild, but late-season games can bring classic Cleveland lake-effect weather. Dress in layers—you never know what you’ll get.

The stadium has four main entrances for general admission: Huntington Bank Ramp, Electronic Merchant Systems Gate, and a couple more. Get there at least an hour before kickoff to dodge long lines and check out the pre-game buzz.

Fan Traditions and Culture

Browns fans? They’re legendary for loyalty and passion. The “Dawg Pound” section has the wildest supporters—expect dog masks, wacky outfits, and creative signs.

You’ll hear barking throughout the game, a quirky tradition from the 1980s. It’s loud, it’s weird, and it’s intimidating for visiting teams.

Cleveland fans take pride in sticking with the team, no matter what. Even during the tough years, the stadium stays packed with diehards.

Brown and orange rule the stands. Wear the colors and you’ll fit right in. You’ll see jerseys honoring legends like Jim Brown and Bernie Kosar, plus today’s stars.

Pregame rituals include the team bursting out of a giant helmet and blasting “Here We Go Brownies,” the unofficial anthem.

NFL Game Experience

NFL games here are a show—cheerleaders, a drumline, fireworks for team intros, and massive screens for replays.

Know Before You Go guides lay out the rules on bags, banned items, and re-entry (which you can’t do). Everyone, no matter the age, needs a ticket.

Food goes beyond the basics. You’ll find local specialties like Polish Boys and Great Lakes Brewing beers—definitely worth a try.

Halftime brings all sorts of entertainment, from local acts to ceremonies honoring military or Browns legends.

If it’s your first visit, wander the concourse. You’ll find Browns history everywhere, from memorabilia to interactive exhibits in the team hall of fame.

Non-Football Events and Entertainment

FirstEnergy Stadium isn’t just for football—it transforms into a lively venue for all kinds of big events.

International Soccer Matches

International soccer has found a home here, bringing in fans from all over. U.S. Men’s and Women’s National Teams have played here, along with clubs like Manchester United, Real Madrid, and FC Barcelona during their tours.

The field meets international standards, so you get the real soccer experience. Soccer crowds bring their own chants and energy, which feels different from football games. The lower bowl gives you great views.

Soccer tickets usually run $35-$150, depending on the matchup. These games mostly happen in the summer when the NFL’s on break.

Concerts and Other Events

The stadium doubles as a top concert spot, hosting major artists and entertainment events. The setup works well for sound and sightlines, which isn’t always the case at big venues.

Acts like Taylor Swift, Kenny Chesney, U2, and Jay-Z have all played here. Concert season generally goes from May to September, with shows starting late afternoon or evening.

Concert seating shifts from the football layout, and premium ticket holders can get field access. Sound’s best in the lower and middle sections, but the upper decks give you killer views of both the stage and Lake Erie.

Besides concerts, you’ll see festivals, monster trucks, and community events throughout the year. The stadium adapts to fit whatever’s happening, making it a real hub for Cleveland.

Show up early to enjoy the plaza’s pre-event activities. Special events usually bring in extra food vendors you won’t find during regular games.

Getting Tickets

Getting Browns tickets at FirstEnergy Stadium takes a bit of planning, but it’s gotten a lot easier with digital options and different price points.

How to Purchase Tickets

The official team website is your safest bet for buying Browns tickets—no fakes, and you’ll pay face value. Tickets go on sale soon after the NFL releases the schedule in spring.

Trusted resale sites like Ticket Club (which doesn’t sneak in extra fees) are also good options. You can often find deals there, especially for less hyped games.

Got a group of 10 or more? Contact the Browns ticket office for discounts. The Browns app sometimes releases last-minute seats on game day, if you’re feeling spontaneous.

Ticket Options and Seating

The stadium has something for every budget and vibe. Club level seats (302-315 and 326-339) give you TV-style views and access to indoor lounges—perfect when it’s freezing.

Lower bowl seats put you right in the action, though they cost more. End zone spots are cheaper but still offer great views, especially for touchdowns. Upper deck seats are the most affordable, but be ready for stairs and wind.

Premium picks include:

• Luxury suites (indoor, catered, all the perks)
• Club seats (padded chairs, lounge access)
• Field-level seats (as close as you’ll get to the players)

If you’re bringing the family, the Dawg Pound is the most authentic Browns section, though it can get pretty rowdy during rivalry games.

Mobile Ticketing and Entry

FirstEnergy Stadium switched to mobile-only tickets, so forget about paper. Download the Browns app or use your web browser to pull up your tickets.

Add them to your phone’s wallet before you leave—cell service gets spotty with big crowds. Facial recognition entry is available if you want to skip scanning altogether.

Show up early; security lines get long close to kickoff. Gates usually open 90 minutes before game time. Have your tickets open and ready to show.

Worried about your phone dying? Charging stations are scattered around the concourse, but bringing your own charger is a smart move.

Transportation and Parking

Getting to Huntington Bank Field (formerly FirstEnergy Stadium) takes a little planning, but Cleveland offers several ways to get there on game day.

Public Transit and Accessibility

The RTA (Regional Transit Authority) makes it easy to reach the stadium. Hop on the Red, Blue, or Green Line to Tower City, then walk about 15-20 minutes. It’s a good way to skip parking headaches.

RTA buses 22, 26, and 38 stop nearby too, but check schedules since game days can mean different times.

The stadium meets ADA standards, with accessible entrances at every gate. Wheelchair seating is all over the place. If you need help, call the stadium at least 48 hours before your event.

In the summer, you can even take a water taxi to North Coast Harbor, which is a pretty cool way to arrive and see the skyline.

Driving and Parking Options

The stadium has six main parking lots, but most spots go to pass holders. Buy your parking pass online if you can.

Downtown Cleveland has lots of parking options within walking distance. Expect to pay $20-40 for lots closest to the stadium, more for big games or playoffs.

Some top parking spots:

• Willard Park Garage: 601 Lakeside Ave
• Lakeside Avenue Garage: Short walk from the stadium
• Municipal Lot: Cheaper, but fills up really fast

There are about 25 downtown lots within a 10-15 minute walk. Many only take cash, so bring some just in case.

Nearby Drop-Off and Pickup Points

If you’re using Uber or Lyft, you’ll find the main pickup and drop-off zone at the intersection of W 3rd Street and Erieside Avenue on the stadium’s south side.

Another good spot for drop-off sits at North Coast Harbor, right by the Great Lakes Science Center. It’s only a short walk to the stadium’s east entrance.

When friends or family drop you off, Alfred Lerner Way has temporary stopping zones. Just a heads-up: you can’t stand or wait there during peak entry or exit times.

After the game, it’s usually easier to meet your ride a little away from the main crowd. The area near the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame tends to have less congestion, and you’ll only have to walk about five minutes from the stadium.

Food, Drink, and Dining Options

FirstEnergy Stadium serves up a mix of quick bites at concession stands and more premium dining. You’ll spot Cleveland classics mixed in with standard stadium fare, and there’s a range of price points.

Stadium Concessions

The Cleveland Browns’ home field packs plenty of concession stands throughout the stadium, so you can usually find something that hits the spot. Over at section 140, The Cleveland Experience highlights local flavors and fan favorites.

If you’re craving barbecue, Mabel’s BBQ at section 115 serves up smoky ribs and other grilled dishes. Burger fans can check out Symon’s Burger Joint at sections 115, 307 (Club Level), and 332 (Club Level).

You’ll see a solid range of food choices—not just hot dogs and nachos. Pizza, healthier options, and more are scattered throughout.

Beer options include domestic staples and some craft picks. Like most big stadiums, food and drinks aren’t cheap, but hey, that’s kind of expected.

Buffet and Premium Experiences

Club-level sections offer a more upscale dining vibe with shorter waits and exclusive menu items you won’t find at the regular stands.

Suite holders get catering with customizable menus, plus dedicated servers and a quieter, more comfortable space to eat away from the crowds.

Some premium areas roll out buffet-style service with rotating menus. The food in these sections is a step up—fresher ingredients and more thoughtful dishes.

If you’re booking premium seats, double-check what’s included. Some packages cover unlimited food and drinks, while others charge separately.

You’ll rarely wait long in the premium areas, so you can actually watch the game instead of standing in line.

Top Attractions Near the Stadium

FirstEnergy Stadium sits right next to some of Cleveland’s biggest attractions. If you’re up for it, you can walk to these spots before or after the game and really make a day of it.

Rock and Roll Hall of Fame

The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame is about a ten-minute stroll from the stadium. That glass pyramid? Yeah, that’s it. Inside, there are seven floors packed with music history and memorabilia.

You’ll see guitars that Jimi Hendrix shredded, David Bowie’s wild costumes, and even handwritten Beatles lyrics. The main hall walks you through rock’s evolution decade by decade.

Honestly, you’ll want to give yourself at least 2-3 hours to take it all in. Tickets usually cost around $30 for adults, though special exhibits can change that.

The Hall often hosts live shows and special events. It’s worth checking their calendar—maybe you’ll catch something extra on game day.

North Coast Harbor

North Coast Harbor hugs Lake Erie and offers some pretty great waterfront views just steps from the stadium. It’s Cleveland’s main lakefront hangout.

The promenade is perfect for a relaxing walk before the game. You’ll also find the Great Lakes Science Center, which has interactive exhibits that kids (and honestly, adults) will love.

If you’re into maritime history, stop by the USS Cod Submarine Memorial or the Steamship William G..

During the summer, boat tours leave from the harbor, giving you cool views of the skyline and stadium from the water.

Merchandise, Photos, and Memories

FirstEnergy Stadium has plenty of ways to bring home something special from your visit. Between photo ops and merchandise, you’ll have no trouble finding a keepsake.

Official Team Shop

The Browns Pro Shop, right near the main entrance, is where you’ll want to go for official gear. They’ve got:

• Jerseys and clothes for all ages
• Game-day accessories (hats, scarves, gloves)
• Collectibles and memorabilia
• Limited edition stuff you can only get at the stadium

The shop usually opens three hours before kickoff and stays open a bit after the game. On non-game days, check the Cleveland Browns site for current hours.

Prices run higher here than online, but you’ll spot exclusive items. It’s smart to bring a credit card—some of the gear isn’t cheap.

Taking Photos at the Stadium

FirstEnergy Stadium’s spot on the Lake Erie shoreline makes for some awesome photos. Popular places to snap a picture include:

1. The main entrance gates with the stadium sign
2. Field-level views (if you can get access)
3. The lakefront right outside the stadium
4. The Dawg Pound section in the background

If you visit in the morning or late afternoon, you’ll catch the best light. The stadium’s design against the lake makes for great memory photos, even if it’s not game day.

During games, bring a decent camera with some zoom. Most areas allow regular cameras (just not pro gear or detachable lenses).

Watching Games Remotely

If you can’t make it to FirstEnergy Stadium, you’ve still got plenty of ways to watch. The Cleveland Browns offer a solid lineup of broadcast and streaming services so you won’t miss the action.

TV Broadcast Information

You’ll find Browns games on a mix of networks, depending on the matchup. Regular season games usually air on CBS, FOX, NBC, or ESPN. In Cleveland, you can catch local broadcasts on WKYC (Channel 3) and WOIO (Channel 19).

Prime time games show up on national networks: Monday Night Football is on ESPN, Sunday Night Football is on NBC, and Thursday Night Football streams exclusively on Amazon Prime Video.

Pre-season games get broadcast on local stations like WEWS (Channel 5). Those shows often include special pre- and post-game analysis from local sports anchors, which can be a fun bonus you won’t get from national coverage.

Live Streaming and Online Viewing

You’ll find plenty of digital options for streaming games on the Cleveland Browns official website. NFL Game Pass lets you catch up with full game replays, but, yeah, live games usually get hit with blackout restrictions—frustrating, I know.

If you want to stream live, services like YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, and fuboTV carry most local and national broadcasts. NFL Sunday Ticket gives fans outside Cleveland a way to watch out-of-market games, which is a lifesaver if you’re not local.

The Browns’ mobile app brings live game audio, real-time stats, and highlight videos straight to your phone. Honestly, it’s a pretty handy option when you’re out and about but still want to keep up.

Some fans debate whether watching from home can really compare to being at FirstEnergy Stadium. Sure, nothing quite matches the energy of being there in person, but modern broadcasts do offer multiple camera angles and some pretty sharp commentary. It definitely helps you see the game in a new way.