AT&T Stadium Guide: Home of the Dallas Cowboys & 2026 World Cup
AT&T Stadium: The Ultimate Guide to Dallas Cowboys' Home
A general overall aerial view of AT&T Stadium on December 20, 2022 in Arlington, Texas. The stadium is the home of the Dallas Cowboys.(Image-Getty)
This is the most important heading, clearly stating the primary topic—AT&T Stadium and its connection to the Dallas Cowboys. It includes a primary keyword and a common user search term ("Ultimate Guide").
An Architectural Marvel in the Heart of Texas
This section introduces the stadium's significance, using descriptive language and secondary keywords like "Architectural Marvel" and "Global Entertainment Destination."
Nestled in Arlington, Texas, AT&T Stadium is far more than the home of the Dallas Cowboys. It stands as a landmark of modern engineering, a premier global entertainment destination, and a bold statement in architectural design. Commonly known as "Jerry World" in honor of team owner Jerry Jones, this stadium set a new standard for sports and entertainment complexes when it debuted in 2009.
From its record-setting video display to its innovative retractable roof, every element was crafted to impress and captivate. This extraordinary facility has hosted NFL championships, world-class boxing matches, legendary concerts, and international soccer games, solidifying its reputation as a world-class venue.
The Vision Behind Jerry World
This subheading breaks down the "Architectural Marvel" section into a specific, keyword-rich topic about the stadium's conception.
The story of AT&T Stadium started well before construction began. The Dallas Cowboys previously played at Texas Stadium in Irving, famous for its partially open roof. By the 1990s, Jerry Jones envisioned a new, cutting-edge facility designed to maximize revenue and elevate the fan experience to an unparalleled level.
### Funding and Construction of a Landmark
This targets users searching for the cost and history of the stadium's build, incorporating key figures.
The development process was multifaceted. After evaluating locations in several cities, an agreement was finalized with Arlington. In a pivotal 2004 vote, residents approved public funding of $325 million. The NFL extended a $150 million loan, and the Jones family contributed the remainder, with total costs reaching approximately $1.15 billion.
The architecture firm HKS, Inc. broke ground on September 20, 2005. The stadium officially opened on May 27, 2009, with a standard capacity of 80,000, expandable to over 100,000, ranking it among the largest NFL stadiums by capacity.
## Engineering Feats and Design Innovations
This section targets users interested in the technical and architectural specifics of the stadium.
AT&T Stadium is celebrated for its pioneering design and structural innovations that set it apart from any other venue in the world.
### The Retractable Roof and Arch System
A specific H3 for a major architectural feature, perfect for long-tail keyword searches.
The most striking external elements are two monumental arched trusses, each spanning 1,225 feet—the longest such structures in the world. These arches support a retractable roof made of translucent fabric. The roof's two panels can open or close in approximately 12 minutes, enabling events to take place in any weather.
### World's Largest Retractable Doors
Highlights a unique, record-breaking feature that draws search interest.
Adding to the stadium’s adaptability are its enormous retractable glass doors at each end zone. Each door measures 180 feet wide and 120 feet high, ranking them as the largest of their kind globally. These doors require about 18 minutes to fully open, seamlessly blending the indoor arena with the outdoor plazas.
### The Legendary Video Board
Focuses on the stadium's most famous and searched-for feature.
The center-hung video board is one of the stadium’s most iconic features. Hanging 90 feet above the field, the massive four-sided screen stretches 160 feet long and 72 feet high. At the time of its installation, it was the largest high-definition video display in the world, designed to provide crystal-clear views from every seat.
### Interchangeable Playing Field
Targets queries about the stadium's versatility for non-football events.
Versatility is further enhanced by the innovative Hellas Matrix Turf system, which consists of 26 modular panels. This allows the entire field to be removed to host a diverse range of events, from concerts and motocross to basketball and soccer matches.
## A World-Class Fan Experience
This section directly addresses the user's intent: "What is it like to visit AT&T Stadium?"
Every detail inside AT&T Stadium is designed to maximize spectator comfort, engagement, and luxury.
### Premium Seating and Luxury Suites
Targets high-value commercial queries from businesses and affluent fans.
The stadium offers an array of premium options, including more than 300 luxury suites on five levels—some positioned just 20 rows from the field—along with 15,000 club seats that provide access to exclusive lounges with upscale amenities.
### Concessions and Cashless Payments
Answers practical, frequently asked questions about food and payment methods.
Concessions are managed by Legends Hospitality, providing diverse food and beverage options in a fully cashless environment. Only credit cards, debit cards, and mobile payments are accepted. The venue is also fully compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), offering accessible parking, seating, restrooms, and service counters.
### Stadium Safety and Bag Policy
Addresses a critical user need-to-know before visiting.
Safety is prioritized through a clear bag policy, which permits only transparent plastic, vinyl, or PVC bags up to 12” x 6” x 12”, or small clutch bags. A detailed code of conduct is also enforced to ensure a secure and enjoyable experience for all attendees.
## Home of the Cowboys and a Global Event Stage
Optimized for the stadium's role beyond football, attracting a wider audience.
While the Dallas Cowboys are the primary tenants, the stadium’s event schedule is packed with a wide array of activities, cementing its status as a year-round entertainment hub.
### Dallas Cowboys Football Legacy
Focuses on the core tenant and its history in the new stadium.
The Cowboys’ inaugural game was held on September 20, 2009, against the New York Giants, drawing a regular-season record crowd of 105,121 spectators. The stadium also hosts the annual Cotton Bowl Classic and the Big 12 Championship Game.
### Hosting the 2026 FIFA World Cup
Taps into the huge volume of searches related to this upcoming global event.
Soccer has also found a home here: AT&T Stadium is one of 11 U.S. venues chosen for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where it is scheduled to host group matches, knockout rounds, and a semi-final game.
### Record-Breaking Concerts and Live Events
Attracts music fans searching for concert venues and historic events.
The stadium has made history with music events, most notably George Strait’s 2014 farewell performance, “The Cowboy Rides Away,” which attracted 104,793 attendees—a U.S. record for a single-artist concert. The venue also hosts major events like the NBA All-Star Game, WrestleMania, and high-profile boxing matches.
## Planning Your Visit to AT&T Stadium
A crucial section for converting readers into visitors, full of practical information.
A trip to AT&T Stadium is an experience in itself. Here’s what you need to know before you go.
### Location and Transportation
Provides essential location details for search engines and users.
The stadium is located at **1 AT&T Way, Arlington, TX, 76011**, with convenient access from major highways. It is situated roughly 11 miles from Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport and 16 miles from Dallas Love Field.
### Parking Tips and Bag Check
Offers solutions to common pain points for visitors.
Parking is best reserved in advance for major events. Designated lots, including Silver Lot 5 and Blue Lot 9, provide bag-check services for items that do not meet the clear bag policy.
### Stadium Tours and Tickets
Captures search intent from those who can't attend a game but want to visit.
For those unable to attend a game, guided tours offer behind-the-scenes access to restricted areas such as locker rooms, the field, and the world-class art installations.
## The Dallas Cowboys Art Program: A Cultural Destination
A unique topic that sets this stadium apart and attracts art and culture enthusiasts.
In a unique fusion of athletics and arts, the Jones family assembled an impressive collection of contemporary works for the stadium. This initiative elevates the venue from a sports arena to a cultural space, featuring pieces by internationally recognized artists such as Olafur Eliasson, Anselm Kiefer, and Doug Aitken.
## The Lasting Legacy of AT&T Stadium
A concluding section that reinforces the stadium's importance and brand.
AT&T Stadium transcends its role as a sports arena. It is the physical manifestation of a visionary project that redefined the potential of a multipurpose venue. With its revolutionary design, exceptional visitor amenities, and diverse event programming, it continues to set a global benchmark. Whether you are a sports enthusiast, music fan, or architecture admirer, AT&T Stadium offers an unforgettable, larger-than-life experience—a modern coliseum built for the future.
