A Guide to Watching Buffalo Bills Games at Highmark Stadium
Are you ready for some football? If you’ve snagged tickets to see the Buffalo Bills in action at Highmark Stadium, you’re in for a thrilling experience! Highmark Stadium is more than just a venue; it's a vibrant center where passion for the Bills runs deep. Whether you're driving in for the game or looking for public transport options, this guide will ensure you arrive at the stadium with ease, ready to cheer on your favorite team.
Driving to Highmark Stadium
Highmark Stadium is conveniently located in Orchard Park, New York, just a short drive from Buffalo. For GPS savvy fans, punching in “1 Bills Drive, Orchard Park, NY 14127” will set you on the right path. Coming from the downtown Buffalo area, fans most often utilize the 219 South (Southern Expressway) and get off at the Milestrip Road/Route 179 exit. From there, it’s a straightforward drive to the stadium by following the signs directing you to the game.
Fans approaching from the south can take 219 North to the same Milestrip Road/Route 179 exit, while those coming from east or west will benefit from the I-90 (New York State Thruway), utilizing exit 55 (Rt. 219 south) or 57 (Hamburg) respectively. Remember, as game day approaches, traffic can get hectic. It’s wise to give yourself plenty of extra time to avoid the stress of last-minute rushing.
Parking at Highmark Stadium
Parking at Highmark Stadium is abundant but can be a challenge as well. With numerous official lots surrounding the stadium, it's important to plan ahead. The Bills offer a variety of parking options including the option to purchase a season parking pass for devoted fans who never miss a game. Single-game parking is also available, but to ensure a spot in one of the preferred lots, you’ll want to arrive early. The lots generally open four hours before kickoff, and you can find the pricing and policies at the Bills' official website.
For those who prefer a smooth exit post-game, consider parking in one of the lots located a bit further from the stadium - this can often lead to less traffic when leaving. Carpooling can also save some cash and ease your exit. Don't forget to pack your patience, as the camaraderie and tailgating spirit among Bills fans can mean lively, packed parking lots!
Public Transportation
For those looking to avoid the driving and parking hassle altogether, public transportation is a solid option. Fans coming from Buffalo and surrounding areas can take advantage of the Metro Rail and Bus services operated by the Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority (NFTA). Catch the Metro Rail downtown and transfer to a shuttle bus that heads directly to the stadium from various locations, including the Special Events Station at the Erie Canal Harbor.
On game days, the Bills run a shuttle service from several locations. This service, aptly named the Bills Shuttle, typically operates from a couple of places – check the Bills' website or NFTA for the most recent shuttle information and schedules. This is a convenient and budget-friendly way to get to the game without the fuss of parking, but be aware that it's popular and can be crowded.
Final Tips
No matter how you decide to travel to Highmark Stadium, it’s always best to plan ahead. Traffic tends to be heavy on game days as tens of thousands of fans converge on the location. Arriving early not only guarantees smoother parking but also gives you a chance to take part in the pre-game festivities and perhaps catch a glimpse of the Bills warming up!
Lastly, when you’re all set with your transportation plans, why not enhance your game-day experience by brushing up on the latest Bills news and checking out the following useful links for additional information:
- Buffalo Bills Official Website: https://www.buffalobills.com/
- Highmark Stadium Parking Information: https://www.buffalobills.com/stadium/parking
- NFTA Metro Schedules and Maps: http://metro.nfta.com/
With this guide in hand, you're all set for a victorious day at Highmark Stadium. So, wear your royal blue and red proudly, dive into the electric atmosphere of Bills Mafia, and get ready to shout, "Go Bills!"