Highmark Stadium, home of the Buffalo Bills, is a must-visit destination for football fans in Orchard Park, New York. As excitement builds around attending a game, it’s essential to plan your visit, including how to get there efficiently. This quick guide will provide insights and tips to make your journey to Highmark Stadium a smooth and enjoyable experience.
Whether you prefer driving, biking, or taking public transportation, there are plenty of options for getting to the stadium. Additionally, this guide will cover rideshare guidelines and accessibility options to ensure everyone can enjoy the game day experience. Knowing your transportation method and planning ahead not only saves time but also enhances your overall experience at Highmark Stadium.
Key Takeaways
- Explore various transportation methods to find the best fit for your Highmark Stadium visit.
- Plan ahead for public transit, rideshare, or driving to ensure a smooth game day experience.
- Consider accessibility options and on-site amenities to enhance your Highmark Stadium visit.
Choosing Your Transportation Method
Public Transit
One way to reach Highmark Stadium in Buffalo is by taking the bus. The Metro Bus & Rail offers the Game Day Express service during Buffalo Bills games and other events at the stadium. Route 251 departs from the Black Rock Riverside Transit Hub, stopping at Utica Station, and ends at the Athol Springs Park and Ride. Departure times from the Black Rock Riverside Transit Hub are available online. Public transportation is environmentally friendly and can help you avoid traffic and parking fees.
Driving
If you prefer to drive, Highmark Stadium is easily accessible by car. From downtown Buffalo, take the I-190 south, then merge onto NY-5 W. Continue on NY-5 W and take the exit to merge onto US-219 S towards Orchard Park. Finally, take the Milestrip Rd/RT-179 exit from US-219 S and follow the signs to Highmark Stadium. Parking is available on-site, and it’s recommended to arrive early to secure a spot and avoid traffic.
Rideshare
Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are another convenient option to get to Highmark Stadium. Simply request a ride from your location and input the stadium as your destination. This can be a cost-effective choice, especially if you’re traveling with a group. Keep in mind that there may be surcharges during high-demand periods like game days or concerts.
Biking
For those who prefer an active way to reach Highmark Stadium, consider biking if you are close enough to the venue. It is both environmentally friendly and an enjoyable way to navigate Buffalo. Bike racks are available to secure your ride upon your arrival. Check the local bike routes and trails to plan the best path to the stadium.
Public Transit Options
Light Rail
Unfortunately, there are no light rail options directly to Highmark Stadium. The stadium is located outside the downtown core, and public transit access is limited.
Bus
For those interested in traveling by bus, there are a few options available. One is the Game Day Express, an express service provided by Metro Bus & Rail. This service has specific requirements, such as not allowing eating, drinking, or smoking on the bus, and passengers must stay on the bus until it reaches the designated drop-off location. This way, riders won’t be permitted to get off in the parking lot before the designated bus stop is reached.
Another option is the NFTA bus line 14, which has a stop near Highmark Stadium. The first bus to Highmark Stadium in Buffalo arrives at 6:48 AM. However, it’s crucial to check the bus schedules and routes for any changes or updates before planning your trip.
In summary, while there are no light rail options to reach Highmark Stadium, a few bus options are available for those looking for public transit options. Be sure to plan your trip and consider checking schedules in advance to ensure a smooth journey.
Driving Tips
Parking Options
Parking at Highmark Stadium is available in several on-site lots, offering a range of parking services:
- Public Parking: Visitors can park in Lots 1, 3, 4, 5, and 7 on event days.
- Preferred Parking: For those seeking a premium parking experience close to the stadium.
- ADA Parking: Accessible parking is offered in Lots 2 and 6 for guests with disabilities.
- Bus & Limo Parking: Designated parking areas for buses and limousines are available.
It’s essential to note that some parking lots only accept payments on event days. Plan accordingly and consider arriving early to secure the most convenient parking spot for your needs.
Traffic Considerations
When driving to Highmark Stadium, keep in mind that traffic around the stadium can become congested on game days or during other major events. To avoid delays:
- Use a navigation app, like Waze, which provides real-time traffic updates and suggests alternative routes.
- Familiarize yourself with the area around the stadium and keep an eye out for road signs pointing towards parking lots and stadium entrances.
- Consider using public transportation or rideshare services if you’d prefer not to drive or navigate through traffic.
Remember to practice patience and follow all traffic rules when traveling to Highmark Stadium. With the proper planning and preparation, you can ensure a smoother, more enjoyable experience on your way to the venue.
Rideshare Guidelines
Highmark Stadium, home of the Buffalo Bills, offers a dedicated Rideshare Lot for fans using rideshare services like Uber and Lyft. The lot is located on the western end of the adjacent ECC South Campus, ensuring that fans can easily connect with their rides to and from the stadium.
When planning your trip to Highmark Stadium using a rideshare service, it is helpful to follow these general guidelines:
- Check the app for fare estimates and surge pricing. Rideshare prices can vary depending on the time of day and demand. It’s a good idea to check the fare estimate in advance and keep an eye on potential surge pricing.
- Set your pickup and drop-off locations. Make sure to input “Highmark Stadium Rideshare Lot” as your destination when requesting a ride. This will direct your driver to the correct location in the stadium vicinity.
- Reserve your ride in advance if possible. Some rideshare apps offer the option to reserve a ride for a specific date and time. This can help ensure you have a ride and avoid potential worries about surge pricing or availability.
- Be patient and communicate with your driver. On game days, traffic near Highmark Stadium can be congested. It may take a little longer for your driver to arrive, so communicate with them regarding any delays or changes in the pickup location.
Remember to follow these rideshare guidelines to ensure a smooth and stress-free journey to and from Highmark Stadium.
Biking to Highmark Stadium
Bike Paths
Cycling to Highmark Stadium is a great way to enjoy a healthy, environmentally friendly, and cost-effective mode of transportation. While there are no specific bike lanes or designated bike routes to the stadium, you can use a combination of quiet streets and shared-use paths for a safer experience. You may plan your cycling route using various biking apps or MapMyRide to determine the best and safest way to reach the stadium.
Be sure to follow the local traffic rules and always wear a helmet for your safety. Since the stadium is located in Orchard Park, the roads can be quite busy on game days, so make sure to stay cautious and be prepared to share the roads with motorists.
Bike Parking
Once you arrive at Highmark Stadium, you’ll want to park your bicycle securely. There are limited bike racks available at the stadium, so it is advised to bring a lock to secure your bicycle to the bike racks provided. Additionally, it is recommended to arrive early to ensure a spot at the bike racks due to their limited availability. Remember to take note of the location of your bike and any valuables before heading into the stadium.
In summary, biking to Highmark Stadium can be a healthy and enjoyable way to attend an event. By carefully planning your route, following traffic rules, and securing your bike upon arrival, you’ll have a successful and enjoyable experience getting to Highmark Stadium by bicycle.
Accessibility at Highmark Stadium
ADA Parking
Visitors to Highmark Stadium with accessible needs can find designated ADA parking spaces in Buffalo Bills controlled parking lots. To ensure a smooth arrival and parking experience, be sure to have a valid state-issued ADA parking permit or license plate on display.
ADA Services
Highmark Stadium is committed to providing an exceptional experience for all its guests, including those with accessibility requirements. Here’s an overview of the services offered:
- Golf Cart Transportation: Guests with accessible needs who park in Buffalo Bills controlled parking lots may receive a golf cart ride to the stadium pre-game. This service helps make the travel from parking to the entrance more comfortable and efficient.
- Accessible Seating: Highmark Stadium offers accessible seating options in various areas throughout the stadium. It is advisable to contact the box office or the stadium’s guest relations staff in advance to ensure that accessible seating is available on the day of the event.
- Assistive Listening Devices: Guests with hearing impairments can access assistive listening devices at Highmark Stadium. Contact the guest services staff for information on how to obtain and use these devices.
By offering convenient parking and accommodations, Highmark Stadium demonstrates its commitment to ensuring an accessible and enjoyable experience for all visitors.
