Your Ultimate Guide to Parking for the Saints vs. Panthers Game at the Caesars Superdome
Hey there, fellow football fans! If you're gearing up to watch the New Orleans Saints take on the Carolina Panthers, you're in for an electrifying experience. The energy in the Caesars Superdome is legendary, & honestly, there's nothing quite like a sea of black & gold cheering on our boys. But before you can get to the "Who Dat!" chants & the on-field action, there's one crucial hurdle to overcome: game day parking.
Navigating the streets of New Orleans on a Saints game day can be a challenge, to say the least. The traffic, the crowds, the seemingly endless search for a decent parking spot—it can all be a bit much. But don't you worry. I'm here to give you the insider scoop on everything you need to know to make your parking experience as smooth & stress-free as possible. So, let's dive in & get you ready for a fantastic game day.
The Official Caesars Superdome Parking: A Convenient but Pricey Option
Let's start with the most obvious choice: the official parking garages at the Caesars Superdome. The stadium boasts seven garages & two surface lots, with a combined capacity of over 7,000 vehicles. If you're looking for the ultimate convenience, this is it. You're right there, just a short walk from the entrance, & you can't beat that.
But here's the thing: convenience comes at a cost. For major events like a Saints game, you can expect to pay a premium, with rates often ranging from $40 to a whopping $100. And even if you're willing to shell out the cash, these spots fill up FAST. If you're set on parking at the dome, you'll need to arrive early. REALLY early.
A limited number of spots in Garages 1, 2, 5, & 6, as well as the Champions Garage, are available for season ticket holders. For the rest of us, it's a first-come, first-served situation in Garage 1A, Lot 3, Lot 3A, & the Champions Garage. Keep in mind that for some of the garages closest to the stadium, you might be subject to security screenings, so be prepared for that.
Exploring the Nearby Parking Garages & Lots: Your Wallet-Friendly Alternatives
If the thought of paying a hundred bucks for parking makes you cringe, don't despair. There are plenty of other options within a reasonable walking distance of the Superdome. These privately-owned garages & lots offer a more budget-friendly alternative, & honestly, a short walk can be a great way to soak up the pre-game atmosphere.
Here are a few of the go-to spots that are popular with seasoned fans:
- 1200 Poydras St. Garage: This is a solid choice, just a short walk from the stadium. It's an indoor garage, so your car will be safe & sound.
- 1301 Girod Street Parking Garage: Another well-lit & secure option, this one is about a six-minute walk to the Superdome.
- 300 Lasalle St. – Heal Garage: A bit further out at around an 11-minute walk, this garage is a great way to avoid some of the immediate post-game traffic chaos.
- 400 Loyola Ave. – Lot P167: If you prefer a surface lot, this one is about a 13-minute walk away.
- 1001 Loyola Ave. – Union Passenger Terminal & Curbside Lot: This one is a bit of a longer walk, around 17 minutes, but it's often one of the most affordable options.
These are just a few examples, & there are many other lots scattered around the area. The key is to do a little research beforehand. And speaking of research...
The Modern Solution to Game Day Parking: Say Hello to Parking Apps
Here's a pro-tip that will change your game day routine for the better: use a parking app. Services like SpotHero & ParkWhiz are absolute lifesavers. They allow you to search for available parking spots near the Superdome, compare prices, &—this is the best part—reserve your spot in advance.
No more circling the block for what feels like an eternity. No more last-minute panic when you realize all the good lots are full. With a few taps on your phone, you can have a guaranteed spot waiting for you. You'll get a digital parking pass that you can show at the garage, & you're good to go. It's a ridiculously easy way to take the stress out of the equation.
And while we're on the topic of modern parking solutions, I've got to tell you about Prked. This is a pretty cool concept that's been gaining a lot of traction. Prked connects drivers with homeowners who are renting out their private driveways & garages for parking. Talk about a win-win! You get a convenient & often more affordable parking spot, & a local homeowner makes a little extra cash. It's a fantastic way to find unique parking opportunities that you wouldn't otherwise know about, & it's definitely worth checking out as you plan your trip to the game.
To Tailgate or Not to Tailgate: That Is the Question
Ah, tailgating. For many fans, it's an essential part of the game day ritual. The food, the drinks, the camaraderie—it's all part of the fun. But when it comes to the Caesars Superdome, the tailgating situation can be a bit confusing.
Here's what I've gathered from various sources. The official Superdome website states that tailgating is permitted in the assigned parking spaces within the garages. They even lay out some guidelines: no glass containers, tents must be 10'x10' or smaller & weighted down, & all tailgating activities must end at kickoff. They also strictly prohibit open-flame grills, so you'll have to get creative with your menu.
However, I've also seen conflicting information that says tailgating is prohibited in the lots. So, what's the deal? Honestly, it seems like the rules can be a bit fluid & might change from one season to the next. Your best bet is to check the official Caesars Superdome website for the most up-to-date tailgating policy before you head to the game.
If you're looking for a more guaranteed tailgating experience, you might want to check out Champions Square. This massive outdoor plaza right next to the Superdome is a hub of pre-game activity. You'll find live music, big-screen TVs showing the early games, & plenty of food & drink vendors. It's a fantastic atmosphere & a great alternative to a traditional tailgate.
Ditching the Car Altogether: Public Transportation & Ridesharing
If you'd rather not deal with the hassle of driving & parking at all, you've got some great alternatives. New Orleans has a pretty decent public transportation system that can get you close to the Superdome without the stress.
The iconic RTA streetcars are a fun & scenic way to get around the city. The Loyola Avenue line will drop you off at the Union Passenger Terminal, which is just a short walk from the stadium. The RTA also has several bus routes that stop near the Superdome, with routes 16 & 91 being some of the most direct.
Ridesharing services like Uber & Lyft are another popular option. The Superdome has designated drop-off & pick-up zones to help streamline the process. You'll find these zones along Poydras Street & LaSalle Street, just a short walk from the stadium. A word of advice: after the game, be prepared for surge pricing & longer wait times. It's a good idea to walk a few blocks away from the stadium before you request your ride to avoid some of the congestion.
Insider Tips for a Flawless Game Day Experience
Alright, you've got your parking plan sorted. Now, let's talk about a few more tips to make your Saints vs. Panthers game day absolutely perfect.
- Arrive Early: I can't stress this enough. The area around the Superdome gets incredibly congested on game days. Give yourself plenty of time to get there, park, & soak in the atmosphere. The gates typically open two hours before kickoff for most ticket holders, & three hours for suite holders.
- Know the Bag Policy: The NFL has a strict bag policy. You're only allowed to bring in a clear plastic, vinyl, or PVC bag that's no larger than 12" x 6" x 12". You can also bring a small clutch bag, no larger than 4.5" x 6.5". Don't get caught at the gate with the wrong kind of bag!
- Go Cashless: The Superdome is a cashless venue. Make sure you have a credit or debit card on hand for any purchases inside the stadium.
- Stay Hydrated: It can get warm in New Orleans, even in the fall. You can bring one factory-sealed 20-ounce bottle of water into the stadium.
- Embrace the "Who Dat" Spirit: The most important tip of all! Be loud, be proud, & have an amazing time cheering on the Saints.
I hope this guide has been helpful in planning your trip to the Caesars Superdome for the Saints vs. Panthers game. It's an experience you won't soon forget. Let me know what you think, & as always, Who Dat!
