Washington State

What’s the best NFL stadium in the country? It’s in Washington, ranking finds

The home of the 12s is No. 1, according to a new ranking.

The public was asked to vote on the best NFL stadiums in the country as part of the USA Today 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards, and Lumen Field, home of the Seattle Seahawks, took the top spot.

It also ranked second on a similar list of best NFL stadiums for food.

Here’s a look at what makes the Seattle stadium stand out:

Why is Lumen Field the best NFL stadium in the country?

An award write-up described Lumen Field as “truly a locals’ stadium,” and it highlighted its public transportation access and “the staggering views of downtown Seattle.”

Seattle Seahawks quarterback Jalen Milroe (6) warms up during the third quarter of the game against the Las Vegas Raiders at Lumen Field, on Thursday, Aug. 7, 2025, in Seattle, Wash.
Seattle Seahawks quarterback Jalen Milroe (6) warms up during the third quarter of the game against the Las Vegas Raiders at Lumen Field, on Thursday, Aug. 7, 2025, in Seattle, Wash. Brian Hayes bhayes@thenewstribune.com

The write-up added that “the experience of being amongst the throng here is incredible, as is the bountiful selection of local craft beer, Starbucks and other local coffees, and a diverse array of foods, including Pacific Northwest favorites.”

On the Lumen Field and Seahawks websites, officials said technology updates at the stadium have contributed to its high ranking, from new video boards to expanded use of checkout-free technology for concessions and retail. They also pointed to other upgrades, such as the Cityside Bars food and drink area and Tunnel Club, billed as an “an exclusive premium space” within view of players going on the field.

Officials also praised Seahawks fans, called the 12s, saying their passion, cheers and dedication, combined with the stadium’s “innovative integrations,” make it No. 1.

Lumen Field opened in 2002 as Seahawks Stadium. It’s also been called Qwest Field and CenturyLink Field over the years.

Flag-wavers practice before the game between the Seattle Seahawks and the San Francisco 49ers at Lumen Field, on Thursday, Oct. 10, 2024, in Seattle, Wash.
Flag-wavers practice before the game between the Seattle Seahawks and the San Francisco 49ers at Lumen Field, on Thursday, Oct. 10, 2024, in Seattle, Wash. Brian Hayes bhayes@thenewstribune.com

Along with the Seahawks, the stadium is home to the Seattle Sounders FC and Seattle Reign FC, plus it’s the site of concerts, tradeshow and other events.

It’s also set to be a 2026 Fifa World Cup venue.

What are the top 10 NFL stadiums?

Here are the 10 best NFL stadiums in 2025, according to ranking:

1. Lumen Field, Washington

2. Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Georgia

3. Lucas Oil Stadium, Indiana

4. U.S. Bank Stadium, Minnesota

5. AT&T Stadium, Texas

6. NRG Stadium, Texas

7. Lambeau Field, Wisconsin

8. Caesars Superdome, Louisiana

9. SoFi Stadium, California

10. Hard Rock Stadium, Florida

What are the top 10 NFL stadiums for food?

Here are the 10 best NFL stadiums for food in 2025, according to the ranking:

1. Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Georgia

2. Lumen Field, Washington

3. NRG Stadium, Texas

4. AT&T Stadium, Texas

5. U.S. Bank Stadium, Minnesota

6. Lucas Oil Stadium, Indiana

7. Bank of America Stadium, North Carolina

8. Acrisure Stadium, Pennsylvania

9. SoFi Stadium, California

10. Lambeau Field, Wisconsin

How were the rankings calculated?

The USA Today 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards rankings cover a range of topics, with experts making nominations, per the website.

Editors review the nominations and settle on final lists of nominees, with the public then asked to cast their votes over four weeks. They can vote once per day in each category.

This story was originally published September 10, 2025 at 5:00 AM.

Sara Schilling
mcclatchy-newsroom
Sara Schilling is a former journalist for mcclatchy-newsroom
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