Formerly known as the Cowboys Stadium, the AT&T Stadium has a retractable roof, and it is located in Arlington, Texas. The stadium is the home of the Dallas Cowboys of the National Football League. Aside from that, the AT&T Stadium is also home to the Big 12 Championship Game and the Cotton Bowl Classic.
The stadium is owned by the city of Arlington, and it is also used for other events and activities such as soccer, concerts, rodeos, Spartan races, motocross, basketball games, and high school football contests. In this article, we are going to find out more about this iconic stadium.
Design and Construction of the AT&T Stadium
The AT&T Stadium was designed by a Dallas-based architectural firm named HKS. This stadium used to be called the Texas Stadium until Jerry Jones, the Cowboys owner, wanted to expand the Texas Stadium from 65,000 seats and add 40,000 more.
The price of the renovation has initially been estimated at $650 million, and the Texas Stadium itself costs around $1.15 billion to build. That is why AT&T Stadium is considered to be one of the most expensive sports venues in the world.
To help Jerry Jones to pay the construction costs of the new stadium, the people of Arlington voted to increase the city’s sales tax by two percent and the car rental by five percent. That is why the City of Arlington was able to provide about 325 million dollars plus interest, in the funding of the new stadium while Jones covered the cost overruns. Aside from that, the NFL also gave the Cowboys a $150 million loan.
After the fund has been raised, a pair about 300 feet-tall arches that span the length of the stadium dome was built, and it was anchored to the ground on each end. Jerry Jones, along with the city of Arlington, was able to raise enough money to build the new stadium that has more than 3,000 Sony LCD displays that are spread throughout the concourses, luxury suites, concession and more. That is why fans have several viewing options that extend the action beyond the field.
Aside from that, the stadium also has a center-hung video display board, which happens to be one of the most massive high-definition TV screens in the world. AT&T Stadium also has glass doors that allow each end zone to be opened.
As we mentioned, AT&T Stadium has a retractable, and it was designed by a structural engineering firm named Walter P. Moore. The design of the roof was revealed in December 2006, and it showed that it is pretty similar to the Texas Stadium roof, along with its trademark hole.
Fascinating Facts about the AT&T Stadium
AT&T Stadium is known for its impressive architecture and modern features. Beyond its role as a sports venue, the stadium has many intriguing aspects that set it apart. Here are some fascinating facts that highlight the unique characteristics of AT&T Stadium.
- The AT&T Stadium is visible from at least five miles away on Interstate 30, and it can also be seen if you are in one of the tall buildings in Dallas. Locals usually call this stadium as the “Death Star” because of its atrociousness.
- Almost everything that you can see at the AT&T Stadium is “Texas-sized.”
- When it is hosting significant events, the AT&T Stadium can expand, and it can accommodate about 100,000 people.
- The video board that is hung in the middle of the stadium is the world’s first center-hung HD Television video board. The video board measures 160 feet by 72 feet, and it costs a whopping $40 million.
- AT&T Stadium has a fancy restaurant inside called the Stadium Club. This is a 19,000 square-foot dining venue that is situated near Entrance A and Pro Shop. The Dallas Cowboys describes this restaurant as combining the comfort of a sports bar while giving you first-class dining experience. The Stadium Club is opened every day, from lunch to dinner.
- You can take a group, private, or guided tour of the AT&T Stadium.
- If you want to stay at home but still want to book and see if any local events will happen here, or you just want to take a look at its history, you can also go on a virtual trip here in the AT&T Stadium.
- If you are going to watch a Dallas Cowboy game, then you can choose a Party Pass Standing-room seat so that you can enjoy the event at premium seats even if you plan your trip to AT&T at the last minute.
- AT&T Stadium also has a phone application where you can get in touch with your friends. In the app, you will be able to view the stadium’s event calendar and be informed about stadium tour options and parking reminders.
- Before 2013, the stadium was used to be called the Cowboys Stadium.
- There are several hotels located near the AT&T Stadium. That is why you should not worry if you need a place to crash after you watch some intense football game at the AT&T stadium. From budget-friendly rooms to high-end hotels, the choices are endless here in Arlington, Texas.
AT&T Stadium is constructed to give one-of-a-kind experiences for thousands of its visitors and sports fans in a setting unmatched by any other venue in the world.
To ensure its commitment to the venue’s safe, enjoyable, and convenient use of the venue to the public and guests, the AT&T Stadium has implemented important policies from bag inspections, alcoholic beverages to the use of drones/unmanned aerial vehicles and emergencies, among others.
Alcohol Policy
AT&T Stadium in Dallas, home of the Dallas Cowboys, has clear guidelines for alcohol consumption. Understanding these policies helps fans enjoy the game while staying safe. Here’s what you need to know about drinking at the stadium.
- All guests buying alcohol, who appear to be below 30 years old, must present valid identification cards.
- Two (2) beer limits, per transaction, at concession stands and portable concessions.
- Two (2) beer limits, per person, by a roving vendor.
- No liquor will be sold to visitors who appear to be intoxicated.
- Visitors who pass alcohol to children and minors will be ejected and subject to arrest.
- The management reserves the right to terminate alcohol sales at its discretion.
- The management reserves the right to refuse the sale of alcohol to any visitors.
- Guests carrying alcohol, who do not have proof of being at least 21 years of age, may be ejected.
- Sales of alcoholic drinks on the concourses and in the seating areas will stop at the end of the third quarter.
- Alcoholic beverages may not be brought into the stadium.
- All visitors must consume and dispose of alcoholic drinks before leaving the stadium area.
Bag Policy
AT&T Stadium in Dallas has a strict bag policy to keep fans safe and speed up entry. Here’s a quick guide to what you can and cannot bring into the stadium.
- Prohibited bags include, but are not limited to, the following: backpacks, cinch bags, fanny packs, coolers, briefcases, luggage of any kind, computer bags, camera bags, and all purses, bags, or containers larger than a small clutch bag.
- Fans may carry only the following style and size bag, package, or container at stadium plaza areas, stadium gates, or when approaching queue lines of fans awaiting entry into the stadium: NFL approved bags that are clear plastic, vinyl or PVC and do not exceed 12″ x 6″ x 12.”
- The bags may be hand-carried or have a shoulder strap. (Officially licensed NFL team logo clear plastic tote bag measuring 12″ x 6″ x 12″ will be available through club merchandise outlets or at nflshop.com).
- Small, one compartment, clutch bag that does not exceed 4.5″ x 6.5″, with or without a handle or strap, that can be carried separately or within a plastic bag.
- An exception will be made for medically necessary items after proper inspection at a gate designated for this purpose.
- The management urges fans to limit the number of items they bring to the stadium on game day.
Drones/Unmanned Aerial Vehicle
The management strongly prohibits unmanned and remote-controlled aircraft systems like drones at AT&T Stadium, including its surrounding parking areas.
Emergencies
Visitors are encouraged to report issues and concerns to a nearby event staff member, calling the Guests Services hotline (817) 892-4161 or using our Guest Text Messaging Service by texting 972-945-3005 with your location and message.
All event staff, event security, police, and Arlington Public Safety emergency response agencies are ready and available to assist guests, including guests with disabilities, in the event of a serious emergency at AT&T Stadium.
The management will provide emergency situation and evacuation procedures over the public address system and on the Stadium televisions and scoreboards.
Other Interesting Facts About the AT&T Stadium
AT&T Stadium is more than just the home of the Dallas Cowboys. Here are some lesser-known facts that make this stadium unique.
- Record-Breaking Attendance: The stadium holds the record for the highest attendance at an NFL game, with 105,121 fans attending the Cowboys’ first regular-season game in 2009.
- Gigantic Retractable Roof: The stadium’s retractable roof is one of the largest in the world. It takes about 12 minutes to open or close.
- Massive Video Board: AT&T Stadium features one of the largest high-definition video boards in the world. It stretches from one 20-yard line to the other.
- Art Collection: The stadium houses an impressive art collection, including works from renowned artists like Olafur Eliasson and Teresita Fernández.
- Host of Major Events: Besides football, the stadium has hosted a variety of major events, including the 2010 NBA All-Star Game, the 2014 NCAA Men’s Final Four, and concerts by artists like Beyoncé and U2.
- Environmental Design: AT&T Stadium is designed with sustainability in mind. It has energy-efficient lighting and a water recycling program.
- Enormous Square Footage: The stadium covers 3 million square feet, making it one of the largest domed structures in the world.
- Luxury Suites: The stadium offers over 300 luxury suites, providing fans with premium amenities and exclusive services.
- Interactive Museum: Inside the stadium, there is a museum dedicated to the history of the Dallas Cowboys and the stadium itself.
- Community Programs: AT&T Stadium hosts numerous community events throughout the year, including youth football camps and charity events.
Conclusion
AT&T Stadium is an iconic landmark in Dallas that embodies the spirit of the Dallas Cowboys and the city’s passion for sports and entertainment. Its state-of-the-art design, impressive facilities, and ability to host a wide range of events make it a premier destination. Whether you’re there for a football game, a concert, or a community event, AT&T Stadium offers an unforgettable experience.
