Ford Field Game Day Guide

Story by Kayla Putz | Photos by Ford Field, Bill Bowen

It’s that time of year again. Football is upon us, and some might say, it’s the most wonderful time of the year.

Bring on the tailgating, bro hugs and synchronized singing of “Forward Down the Field.”

Got your tickets?

Before heading down to The D, make sure you have your tickets. If you plan to park near the stadium, check out Ford Field’s parking guide.

Pro tip: Ford Field has a strict bag policy and only allows the following types of bags into the stadium:

  • Bags that are clear plastic, vinyl or PVC and do not exceed 12” x 6” x 12.”
  • One-gallon clear plastic freezer bag (Ziploc bag or similar).
  • Small clutch bags, approximately the size of a hand, with or without a handle or strap.

Carb up for the day

If you do it right, game day is a full-day experience. Carb-ing up for the festivities is essential. You know what they say: breakfast is the most important meal of the day. Check out these Detroit breakfast joints:

Hudson Café

10-minute walk to Ford Field

Hudson Café prides itself on large portions and some of the best pancakes and French toast in town. Fan favorites include the Oreo pancakes and strawberry shortcake French toast – coated with graham crackers and stuffed with strawberries and cream cheese. Need we say more?

Photo courtesy of Hudson Café.

Dime Store

15-minute walk to Ford Field

The Dime Store serves up omelets and house potatoes to die for. They offer a separate to-go menu, so you can keep the party moving toward Ford Field.

Tailgate Detroit-style

Eastern Market

Eastern Market is the place to be for Lions tailgating. The market provides plenty of space to park and party. Shuttles run continuously between Ford Field and Eastern Market and tailgaters can also make the quick 10-minute walk across the bridge to the stadium. Spots can be purchased in advance online.

Pride Plaza

Ain’t no party like a Brush Street party. Admission is free to the official Detroit Lions Tailgate, which shuts down Brush Street in front of Ford Field. It features beverage tents, music, Detroit food trucks and interactive fan games.

Keep Sunday Funday going

Just because it’s Sunday, doesn’t mean the party has to end – especially if you are celebrating a Lions win. Check out these Detroit establishments to soak in the victory (or drown your sorrows – we won’t judge).

Elwood Bar & Grill

15-second walk from Ford Field

Elwood is across the street from Ford Field at the corner of Brush Street and Adams – you can’t miss it. Grab some food and people watch on the patio while you wait for game day traffic to clear.

Detroit Beer Co.

8-minute walk from Ford Field

Detroit Beer Co. offers a range of appetizers, salads, pizzas, unique sandwiches and handcrafted ales and lagers.

Detroit Beer Company by Steve Kovich.

Town Pump Tavern

10-minute walk from Ford Field

100 W. Montcalm St., Detroit

The Town Pump offers an extensive beer list and live music after Lions games.

DELMAR Detroit

10-minute walk from Ford Field

501 Monroe St., Detroit

DELMAR offers a rooftop hangout, light apps, hearty entrees, beer, and gorgeous plus city views!

Buffalo Wild Wings

10-minute walk from Ford Field

1218 Randolph St., Detroit

Bdubs is a fantasy football haven. You can catch the remaining Sunday NFL games, paired with wings and beer.

Hockeytown Cafe

5-minute walk from Ford Field

Completely immerse yourself in Detroit sports culture at this downtown Detroit mainstay.

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