Acrisure Stadium Information
History
Acrisure Stadium, located at 100 Art Rooney Avenue in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has a rich history tied to the city’s steel legacy and its iconic sports teams. Originally opened in 2001 as Heinz Field, it replaced the outdated Three Rivers Stadium, which the Pittsburgh Steelers and Pittsburgh Pirates shared from 1970 to 2000. The push for a new venue stemmed from concerns over player recruitment, as rival AFC North teams like the Baltimore Ravens and Cleveland Browns boasted modern facilities. After a 1997 referendum failed to fund new stadiums, “Plan B” was enacted through the Allegheny Regional Asset District, allocating $281 million (equivalent to about $511 million in 2025 dollars) for construction, part of a larger $809 million package that also funded PNC Park and expansions to the David L. Lawrence Convention Center. Groundbreaking occurred on June 18, 1999, and the stadium was designed by Populous (formerly HOK Sports) to honor Pittsburgh’s industrial past, incorporating 12,000 tons of steel. The first event was an ‘N Sync concert on August 18, 2001, followed by the Steelers’ preseason game and the University of Pittsburgh Panthers’ season opener. Naming rights were initially held by Heinz for $57 million until 2021, but after Kraft Heinz declined renewal, Acrisure secured them in July 2022. Over the years, the stadium has hosted diverse events, including NHL Winter Classics in 2011 and 2017, Taylor Swift’s record-breaking 2023 Eras Tour concert with 73,117 attendees, soccer matches, and women’s football championships. Renovations in 2007 and a 2015 expansion added seats and suites, enhancing its capacity to 68,400.
Atmosphere
The atmosphere at Acrisure Stadium is electric, steeped in tradition and Pittsburgh’s tough, blue-collar ethos. Home to the Pittsburgh Steelers since 2001, it’s a sea of black and gold, with fans waving nearly 70,000 Terrible Towels during pregame introductions and pivotal plays, creating a roaring, unified energy that’s been a hallmark since the team’s founding in 1933. The FedEx Great Hall, a 40,000-square-foot space, immerses visitors in Steelers and Pitt Panthers history through memorabilia, murals, replica Lombardi Trophies, and interactive displays honoring legends like Franco Harris and Joe Greene. For Steelers games, the vibe is family-oriented yet intense, with sold-out crowds since 1972 and a mix of white-collar professionals and multi-generational supporters. The stadium’s North Shore location along the Ohio River offers stunning views of downtown Pittsburgh, adding to the scenic appeal. It’s smoke-free, family-friendly with sensory-inclusive programs for autism, and features pregame entertainment like live radio shows and football activities. Concerts and other events amplify the vibrant, history-rich environment, though the natural grass field can turn muddy in poor weather, contributing to a gritty, authentic feel.
Equipment and Facilities
Acrisure Stadium boasts state-of-the-art equipment and facilities designed for optimal fan and player experiences. The playing field is Kentucky bluegrass with an underfield heating system using an antifreeze-hot water mix to maintain 62°F, ensuring playability in Pittsburgh’s variable weather. Audio-visual elements include a 28×96-foot Daktronics LED video board, 650 televisions throughout, and WiFi for all attendees. Vertical transportation features five escalators, four pedestrian ramps, and elevators prioritized for guests with disabilities and suite holders. Locker rooms are expansive: the Steelers’ at 6,000 square feet with 60 lockers, Pitt Panthers’ at 4,600 square feet with 95, and visiting teams’ at 2,600 square feet each. Accessibility equipment includes limited wheelchairs available at guest services (with a driver’s license deposit), sensory kits for those with autism, and accommodations for service animals upon request. Restrooms total 24 women’s, 24 men’s, and 8 family options, with baby-changing stations and private areas for nursing mothers. Construction incorporated 48,000 cubic yards of concrete, 30,000 gallons of paint, and 50,000 square feet of glass, blending functionality with aesthetic nods to the city’s steel heritage.
Management
Acrisure Stadium is owned by the Sports & Exhibition Authority of Pittsburgh and Allegheny County and primarily operated by the Pittsburgh Steelers and the University of Pittsburgh. Day-to-day management falls under PSSI Stadium LLC, which oversees guest services, event operations, and policies like the Fan Code of Conduct emphasizing P.R.I.D.E. (positive, respectful, inclusive, diverse, everyone belongs). Culinary and concession services are handled by Aramark, managing over 400 eateries and 47 concession stands. Parking is managed by Alco Parking Corporation for surrounding lots, with accessibility requests directed to them. Guest services are available at multiple locations, including sections 104, 123, 504, and 528, handling everything from lost and found to car trouble assistance. Issues can be reported via text (412-776-0872) or the Pittsburgh Steelers Mobile App. Management reserves the right to eject unruly guests and enforces a no-re-entry policy, ensuring a safe, enjoyable environment for all events.
What to Expect
Attending an event at Acrisure Stadium means preparing for a secure, efficient experience. Gates open two hours before kickoff, with early arrival recommended to navigate security screenings. All guests undergo bag and belonging checks; the stadium is cashless, accepting credit/debit cards, Apple/Google Pay, or pre-paid debit cards loaded at the FedEx Great Hall. Expect no re-entry except in medical emergencies, and prohibited items include drones, umbrellas (if open), professional cameras, and light-up clothing. The venue is accessible, with ADA drop-off points, elevators, and sensory programs. For Steelers games, anticipate a high-energy crowd with pregame activities in the Play Football area, including skills challenges and alumni appearances. Weather can affect the natural grass field, potentially making it slippery, so dress accordingly. Video boards display closed captioning, and birthday messages can be requested in advance. Overall, expect a blend of excitement, history, and Pittsburgh hospitality.
Concessions
Concessions at Acrisure Stadium, managed by Aramark, offer a mix of local flavors and stadium classics across 47 stands and 15 novelty locations. Highlights include Pittsburgh staples like Primanti Brothers sandwiches, Caliente Pizza, Chickie and Pete’s crab fries, Franco’s Pizzeria, Pierogi House, and Potato Patch Fries. Beverages feature local brews like Iron City and Leinenkugel’s, alongside national brands. The stadium is cashless, with mobile ordering via the Steelers app for in-seat delivery or quick pickup to minimize missing game action. All stands are accessible, and assistance is available for guests with disabilities. No outside food is allowed except sealed non-alcoholic bottles up to 24 oz. Prices are typical for NFL venues, with options for every budget.
Parking and Access
Parking options abound, with North Shore lots managed by Alco at $20–$35 per game, pre-sold for convenience. Use I-279 or Rte. 28 for easy access, or park downtown and take free PRT light rail to Allegheny or North Side stations. The Gateway Clipper Water Shuttle from Station Square costs $15 round-trip. ADA parking requires requests in advance.
Seating and Capacity
With 68,400 seats, including 8,799 club seats and 129 luxury suites, the stadium offers sight lines from 60 feet at sidelines to 25 feet in end zones. Accessible seating exchanges are available via request form. Tickets range from $49–$618 depending on game and location.
Useful Tips for Event Goers
Download the Steelers or Pitt apps for updates. Use Waze for traffic. Register kids at guest services for wristbands. Tours are available by reservation. The nearby Steelers Hall of Honor Museum is a must-visit for history buffs.
For more information on the Acrisure Stadium see the pages below:
Acrisure Stadium Parking:
Read parking information and directions for the Acrisure Stadium.
Ticket Policies:
Read ticket policies, ticket verification and refund policies.
Acrisure Stadium Seating Chart:
View the Acrisure Stadium seating map and read related seating information.