Lucas Oil Stadium: A Complete Guide

Located in the heart of Indianapolis, Indiana, Lucas Oil Stadium is a multi-purpose stadium that serves as a vibrant hub for sports, entertainment, and events. It's the home of the Indianapolis Colts, an NFL team, and has hosted various other major events, including the Super Bowl, NCAA Final Four, and the Big Ten Championship Game. 

This comprehensive guide provides all the information you need to plan your visit to Lucas Oil Stadium, whether you're attending a game, concert, or simply taking a tour.

Lucas Oil Stadium 

Lucas Oil Stadium: Indianapolis, Indiana

General Stadium Facts:

• Opened: August 16, 2008

• Cost: $720 million

• Owner: Capital Improvement Board

• Naming Rights: Lucas Oil Products ($122 million over 20 years)

• Size: 1.8 million square feet

• Seating Capacity: 67,000 (football) / 70,000+ (expandible)

• Awards:

• 2008 Sports Facility of the Year (Street & Smith's Sports Business Journal)

• 2008-2009 & 2010-2011 Best Artificial Turf Playing Surface (NFL Players Association)

• Ranked Top NFL Stadium & Best Stadium Experience by Stadium Journey multiple times

 

History and Construction

Lucas Oil Stadium was built to replace the RCA Dome, which had been the home of the Colts since 1984. The new stadium was designed by HKS Architects of Dallas, Texas, and construction began in September 2005. The total cost of the project was approximately \$720 million, with funding coming from a variety of sources, including the State of Indiana, the City of Indianapolis, and the Indianapolis Colts.

The stadium officially opened to the public on August 16, 2008, with a capacity of approximately 67,000 for football. The stadium has since been expanded to accommodate up to 70,000 for basketball and other major events.

Construction Facts:

• Developer: Indiana Stadium and Convention Building Authority

• Architect: HKS Architects (Dallas, Texas)

• Construction Manager: Hunt Construction Group, Inc. (Indianapolis)

Stadium Features:

• Seating: Retractable seating in East, West sideline and North End Zone sections. North End Zone seating is also removable for larger events.

• Field: 93,900 square feet, 120 yards x 53.5 yards. Artificial turf surface with sand & rubber infill. Can be covered for other events.

• Roof & Operable Window: Retractable roof with 2 panels, opening in approximately 11 minutes. Each panel weighs 2.5 million pounds. Operable window consists of 6 panels, taking 11 minutes to open.

• Suites: 139 suites, including 8 Field Suites and the Quarterback Suite (accommodates 200 guests).

• Press Box: Houses game operations, radio broadcast, coaches booths, print media, video board production and stadium operations. Seats and dining for 200 media members.

• Video Boards: 1,550 linear feet of ribbon boards on façade of Loge Level and 660 feet in corner sections of Upper Suite Level. Two main video boards (37’ x 97’), four auxiliary boards, and exterior marquees.

• Exhibit Halls, Meeting Rooms & Convention Space: Nearly 135,000 square feet of space when seats are retracted, combined with 43,000 square feet of Exhibit Hall space for a total of over 180,000 square feet. Two Exhibit Halls and twelve Meeting Rooms are also located on Event Level.

• Underground Pedestrian Connector: Connects Lucas Oil Stadium to the Indiana Convention Center and Circle Centre Mall, providing access to over 4,700 downtown hotel rooms without stepping outside.

Lucas Oil Stadium ( Wikipedia )is a true marvel of modern stadium design, offering a world-class experience for fans and event attendees alike. From its innovative retractable roof and operable window to its extensive meeting and convention space, the stadium is truly a versatile and impressive facility.

Lucas Oil Stadium main entrance 

Events at Lucas Oil Stadium

Lucas Oil Stadium hosts a wide variety of events throughout the year, catering to diverse interests. Here's a breakdown:

Sports:

• NFL Games: Home to the Indianapolis Colts, the stadium is a regular host of NFL games, offering a thrilling experience for football fans.

• NCAA Basketball Games: The stadium transforms into a basketball arena for various NCAA tournaments, including the Big Ten Tournament and regional rounds of the NCAA Tournament.

• Other Sports: Events like college football games, high school football championships, and even international soccer matches occasionally find their way onto the schedule.

Entertainment:

• Concerts: From renowned musicians to popular bands, Lucas Oil Stadium hosts a diverse lineup of concerts, drawing music lovers from across the region.

• Monster Jam: This action-packed motorsports event features monster trucks performing incredible stunts and jumps, captivating audiences of all ages.

• Supercross: Motocross enthusiasts can witness high-flying dirt bike races and freestyle motocross competitions at the stadium.

Other Events:

• Conventions: With its expansive space and impressive amenities, Lucas Oil Stadium is a popular venue for various conventions, trade shows, and exhibitions.

• Special Events: From charity galas to graduation ceremonies, the stadium can be adapted to host various unique and memorable events.

Upcoming Events:

• Sunday, December 31st, 2024: Colts VIP Tailgate (Pre-game event)

• April 4th, 2024: Morgan Wallen: One Night At A Time 2024 (Concert)

• April 5th, 2024: Morgan Wallen: One Night At A Time 2024 (Concert)

• May 4th, 2024: George Strait (Concert)

• October 12th, 2024: P!NK: Summer Carnival 2024 (Concert)

• November 1st, 2024: Taylor Swift | The Eras Tour (Concert)

• November 2nd, 2024: Taylor Swift | The Eras Tour (Concert)

More Information:

• Official Website: https://www.lucasoilstadium.com/events-tickets/

• Events Calendar: https://www.lucasoilstadium.com/events/

Lucas Oil Stadium offers a vibrant and exciting calendar of events, providing something for everyone throughout the year. Be sure to check the official website for the latest information and ticket availability.

Tickets:

Tickets for events at Lucas Oil Stadium can be purchased online through the stadium's website or through StubHub website. Prices vary depending on the event, the seating location, and other factors.

Here are some recommendations for booking tickets to Lucas Oil Stadium:

• Official website: The Indianapolis Colts website is the official source for tickets to Colts games. You can also purchase tickets to other events held at Lucas Oil Stadium.

• StubHub: StubHub is a resale marketplace for tickets to all sorts of events, including Lucas Oil Stadium events. You can often find tickets on StubHub that are cheaper than face value.

Stadium Tour

Get a behind-the-scenes look at Lucas Oil Stadium with a guided tour. Tours take you through various areas, including the field level, press box, and locker rooms. You'll learn about the stadium's history, architecture, and technology, and witness firsthand the preparations that go into hosting major events.

Lucas Oil Stadium Directions

Getting to Lucas Oil Stadium is easy, no matter which direction you're coming from. Here are some general directions:

From the north:

• Take I-65 south to Exit 100A for I-70 east.

• Continue on I-70 east to Exit 79A for West Street.

• Turn left onto South Street.

• Lucas Oil Stadium will be on your right.

From the south:

• Take I-65 north to Exit 102A for I-70 west.

• Continue on I-70 west to Exit 79A for West Street.

• Turn right onto South Street.

• Lucas Oil Stadium will be on your right.

From the east:

• Take I-465 west to Exit 73A for I-70 east.

• Continue on I-70 east to Exit 79A for West Street.

• Turn left onto South Street.

• Lucas Oil Stadium will be on your right.

From the west:

• Take I-74 east to I-465 south (Exit 73A).

• Follow I-465 south to I-70 east.

• Exit I-70 at West Street (Exit 79A).

• Turn left (north) to South Street.

• Lucas Oil Stadium will be on your right.

Lucas Oil Stadium map

Here is an image showing the location of Lucas Oil Stadium:

Parking

There are several parking options available near Lucas Oil Stadium. The closest parking is in the Lucas Oil Stadium parking garage, which is located at 500 South Capitol Avenue. There are also several surface lots and metered street parking available in the area.

For more information on parking, please visit the Lucas Oil Stadium website: https://spothero.com/destination/indianapolis/lucas-oil-stadium-parking

Public transportation

Lucas Oil Stadium is also easily accessible by public transportation. The IndyGo Red Line bus rapid transit line has a stop at the stadium, and several other bus lines stop nearby. For more information on public transportation, please visit the IndyGo website: https://www.indygo.net/routes/

Hotels and Restaurants Near Lucas Oil Stadium

Numerous hotels and restaurants are located within walking distance of Lucas Oil Stadium. Whether you're looking for a luxurious stay or a casual dining experience, you'll find plenty of options to choose from. Here are some suggestions:

Hotels:

• JW Marriott Indianapolis: Located directly across from Lucas Oil Stadium, this luxurious hotel offers stunning views of the city.

• The Westin Indianapolis: Situated just steps from the stadium, this hotel boasts a modern design and spacious rooms.

• Hilton Garden Inn Indianapolis Downtown: Offering a convenient location and comfortable accommodations, this hotel is a popular choice for visitors.

Restaurants:

• St. Elmo Steak House: This upscale steakhouse is a popular spot for pre-game meals and offers an extensive menu of classic American fare.

• The Eagle's Nest: Located inside Lucas Oil Stadium, this restaurant provides a unique dining experience with breathtaking views of the field.

• Yard House: This sports bar and grill offers a casual atmosphere and a wide selection of beers and American dishes.

Additional Information:

• Website: https://www.lucasoilstadium.com/

• Address: 500 S Capitol Ave, Indianapolis, IN 46225

• Phone: (317) 262-8600

Conclusion:

Lucas Oil Stadium stands not just as a venue but as a cornerstone of Indianapolis' cultural and sporting identity. Whether you're here for a game, a tour, or a special event, the stadium's rich history and modern amenities ensure an unforgettable experience. Join us as we unravel the layers of Lucas Oil Stadium, inviting you to be a part of the excitement that unfolds within its iconic walls.