Raymond James Stadium | Tampa

Raymond James Stadium is one of Tampa’s most iconic landmarks and a premier sports and entertainment venue, attracting both locals and visitors for a variety of events, including football games, concerts, and community gatherings. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the stadium, its features, and its history:

1. History and Background

Raymond James Stadium opened on September 20, 1998, replacing the old Tampa Stadium (known as "The Big Sombrero"). It was designed to meet the growing demand for a modern sports facility while maintaining ties to the area’s rich history. It was named after Raymond James Financial, which acquired the stadium's naming rights in 1998.

The stadium was built with a capacity to seat around 65,000 spectators, which can be expanded for major events. The design blends modern functionality with Tampa's cultural aesthetics, and it has since become a prominent venue for both sports and entertainment.

2. Architecture and Capacity

Seating Capacity: 65,000 seats for most events, with expansion options that can increase the capacity to 75,000.

Surface: The field is covered with natural grass, which has been chosen for its suitability for both football and other events like soccer.

Design: The stadium has a distinct modern look with a spacious, open-air design. It includes wide concourses and high-tech amenities, ensuring fans have a comfortable experience while attending games or other events.

3. Primary Events

Raymond James Stadium serves as the home field for two primary teams:

Tampa Bay Buccaneers (NFL): The stadium is the official home of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, an NFL team that has seen considerable success over the years, including winning the Super Bowl LV (2021).

University of South Florida Bulls (NCAA): The USF Bulls, the university’s football team, also plays their home games here, making it an important venue for college sports in the region.

Additionally, the stadium hosts several significant events, such as:

Super Bowl LV (2021): Raymond James Stadium became historic for hosting the Super Bowl where the Tampa Bay Buccaneers played and won the title on their home turf, defeating the Kansas City Chiefs.

College Football Playoff National Championship (2017): The stadium also hosted this prestigious game, marking its significance in college football.

NHL Stadium Series (2026): The Tampa Bay Lightning will play an outdoor hockey game against the Boston Bruins in February 2026.

4. Iconic Features

Raymond James Stadium is well known for several unique features that contribute to its character and appeal:

Pirate Ship: One of the most recognizable features of the stadium is the pirate ship located in the north end zone. The ship is a 103-foot replica that shoots cannons during key moments of the game, such as touchdowns or field goals. It represents the Buccaneers' branding and adds an extra level of excitement for fans.

Massive Video Boards: The stadium is equipped with two 9,600-square-foot high-definition video boards located at the north and south ends of the field, providing clear views for all spectators and enhancing the fan experience.

Luxury Suites and Clubs: Raymond James offers several premium seating options, including 195 luxury suites and a variety of club seating areas such as the Hyundai Club and the Lexus Club. These areas offer a more exclusive experience with upscale amenities, VIP services, and a high level of comfort.

5. Multi-Purpose Venue

While Raymond James Stadium is primarily used for football, it is also a highly versatile venue capable of hosting various other events:

Concerts: The stadium has been a venue for concerts by some of the biggest names in music. Artists like Beyoncé, The Rolling Stones, and U2 have performed here, making it a major location for large-scale music events.

Soccer: Raymond James Stadium has hosted numerous international and club soccer matches, including games for major tournaments and MLS events.

Motorsports: Occasionally, the stadium has also hosted monster truck events and other motorsport competitions.

Community Events: The stadium’s event spaces are used for various community-driven events such as festivals, expos, charity events, and public celebrations.

6. Event Spaces and Amenities

Raymond James Stadium offers several spaces designed for corporate events, social gatherings, and private functions:

The Field: A large event space that is just under 90,000 square feet, perfect for banquets, team-building events, and large receptions. It can accommodate up to 3,000 guests.

Club Spaces: The stadium features numerous club spaces that can be rented for private events, including the Hyundai Club (2,350 capacity), East Club (2,400 capacity), and Fifth Third VIP Lounge (100 capacity). These spaces are ideal for corporate functions, trade shows, and parties.

Premium Suites: The 195 luxury suites offer an upscale experience, complete with personalized service, premium seating, and access to exclusive amenities.

7. Future Developments

The stadium is constantly evolving, with ongoing improvements to maintain its status as a world-class venue. In 2025, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers announced plans for a massive renovation of Raymond James Stadium. The renovation will focus on enhancing the fan experience, improving amenities, and updating the stadium's facilities to meet the needs of future events, including another potential Super Bowl.

8. Location and Access

Raymond James Stadium is conveniently located at 4201 N Dale Mabry Hwy, Tampa, FL 33607, near several other key locations, such as the Tampa International Airport and downtown Tampa. The stadium is easily accessible by car, with ample parking facilities and public transportation options. It is also near the Tampa Riverwalk, which is a popular area for walking, biking, and exploring the city.

9. Fan Experience

Raymond James Stadium provides a top-tier fan experience with its large seating capacity, excellent views, modern amenities, and entertainment options. The stadium features a variety of food vendors offering classic stadium eats, including hot dogs, nachos, and specialty food items. The presence of local craft beer vendors and premium food options ensures there’s something for everyone.

Conclusion

Raymond James Stadium is a cornerstone of Tampa's sports and entertainment scene. Whether it's hosting a thrilling NFL game, a major concert, or a high-stakes college football matchup, the stadium provides a fantastic environment for sports fans and event-goers alike. With its distinctive pirate ship, luxurious amenities, and wide variety of events, it’s no surprise that Raymond James Stadium continues to be a beloved venue for the Tampa Bay community.