Raymond James Stadium is a premier multi-purpose venue in Tampa, Florida and home to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. The stadium hosts NFL games, college football, concerts, and large-scale events throughout the year.
Overview
Raymond James Stadium is one of the most recognizable venues in the NFL, famous for its 103-foot-long replica pirate ship beyond the north end zone. Located at 4201 N Dale Mabry Highway in Tampa, the stadium sits just west of downtown and is easily accessible from major highways including I-275 and the Veterans Expressway. It opened on September 20, 1998, and has since undergone significant renovations to keep it among the top venues in professional sports.
Fast facts
- Location: Tampa, Florida (4201 N Dale Mabry Highway)
- Teams: Tampa Bay Buccaneers (NFL)
- Capacity: Approximately 65,890 (expandable to 75,000+ for major events)
- Opened: September 20, 1998
- Construction: 1996–1998
- Cost: $168.5 million (original construction)
- Surface: Natural grass
- Premium Seating: 195 luxury suites and 12,000 club seats
Architectural Features
Designed by HOK Sport (now Populous), Raymond James Stadium is best known for its iconic pirate ship and distinctive design:
- A 103-foot replica pirate ship with cannons that fire after every Buccaneers touchdown and field goal
- Two large video scoreboards and ribbon boards upgraded during renovations
- An open-air design that takes advantage of Tampa’s warm climate
- Multiple premium seating areas including the East and West Clubs and the Hyundai Club
Stadium District
Raymond James Stadium anchors a vibrant area in central Tampa that includes:
- Adjacent parking and tailgating areas spanning over 100 acres
- Proximity to downtown Tampa and the Tampa Riverwalk
- Easy access to Tampa International Airport (approximately 5 miles)
- Nearby restaurants, hotels, and entertainment in the Westshore District
Major Events
Raymond James Stadium has hosted numerous high-profile events including:
- Super Bowl XXXV (2001)
- Super Bowl XLIII (2009)
- Super Bowl LV (2021)
- College Football National Championship (2017)
- NCAA Men’s Final Four (multiple years)
- Outback Bowl / ReliaQuest Bowl (annually)
- Major concerts and international soccer matches