NFL Stadiums: A Century of History from Soldier Field to SoFi

CHICAGO, Ill. — Soldier Field, home of the Chicago Bears, celebrated its 100th anniversary during the 2024 season. Opened in 1924, it remains the oldest stadium in the NFL, yet many franchises are shifting towards modern, high-tech venues. Out of the NFL’s 30 stadiums, 21 were constructed in the past 25 years.

Since its inauguration, Soldier Field has undergone numerous renovations, with the latest happening in 2003. This was significant enough to remove its designation as a National Historic Landmark. Charity games at the venue date back to 1926, but it became the official home of the Bears in 1971, after originally serving as the home for the Chicago Cardinals starting in 1959.

Following Soldier Field, Lambeau Field opened in 1957 and is the oldest stadium built specifically for an NFL team. The Green Bay Packers’ home was initially named City Stadium until it was renamed in 1965 to honor Earl “Curly” Lambeau, the team’s founder and coach. With a capacity of 81,441, it boasts the second-largest seating among NFL stadiums.

GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium, which opened in 1972, has undergone several upgrades, including a notable $375 million renovation completed in 2010. Its seating capacity is 76,416, making it the fourth-largest stadium in the NFL and a future venue for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Highmark Stadium opened in Orchard Park, New York, in 1973 originally as Rich Stadium. Its name changed several times before becoming Highmark Stadium in 2021. After a series of adjustments, its capacity now stands at 71,608.

Elsewhere, the Caesars Superdome in New Orleans opened in 1975, hosting numerous major events, including several Super Bowls. In 2025, it will be the site of Super Bowl LIX.

Hard Rock Stadium has been the site of many significant sporting events since its opening in 1987. Home to the Miami Dolphins and Hurricanes, it has hosted six Super Bowls and various college championships.

Other notable stadiums include EverBank Stadium (1995), Bank of America Stadium (1996), FedEx Field (1997), M&T Bank Stadium (1998), and Raymond James Stadium (1998). Each has its own unique history and celebrated events, showcasing the evolution and history of professional football venues.

More recent constructions include Allegiant Stadium (2020) and SoFi Stadium (2020), both built with state-of-the-art features, including retractable roofs and extensive event hosting capabilities.

The timeline of NFL venues not only reflects the league’s growth and modernization but also highlights the rich history embodied in stadiums like Soldier Field, which stands as a testament to the sport’s deep roots in American culture.