Know Everything About Cotton Bowl Stadium: Capacity, History & Facts

The Cotton Bowl is an outdoor stadium located in Dallas, Texas. It opened in 1930 as Fair Park Stadium and is located on the grounds of the Texas State Fair, also known as Fair Park.

The Cotton Bowl was the long-time site of the Cotton Bowl Classic, an annual college football post-season bowl game named for the stadium. Starting on New Year’s Day 1937, it hosted the first 73 editions of the game until January 2009, when it was relocated to AT&T Stadium in Arlington. The stadium also hosts the Red River Showdown, an annual college football game between the Oklahoma Sooners and the Texas Longhorns, and the First Responder Bowl, which was previously held there.

Stadium Information

Location Dallas, Texas
Capacity 92,100 spectators
Surface natural grass
Construction Year 1930
Teams Various college teams
Notable Events College football bowl games,
FIFA World Cup matches,
Major concerts
Parking Available in surrounding lots
Nearby Attractions Fair Park, Dallas Museum of Art,
Dallas Arboretum and Botanical
Garden, Dallas Zoo

Cotton Bowl Stadium History

It has a particular position in the annals of American athletics. This magnificent stadium has witnessed several spectacular moments and historic events. It was built to house the annual Cotton Bowl Classic college football game, which immediately became known as one of the most popular bowl games in the country. The stadium has hosted spectacular concerts and athletic events, as well as outstanding college football games.

Due to the massive crowds that SMU running back Doak Walker brought to the stadium during his undergraduate career in the late 1940s, it became known as “The House That Doak Built.”

On January 1, 1967, the Cowboys hosted the Green Bay Packers for the NFL championship in the Cotton Bowl in their sixth season. That year’s collegiate bowl game featured SMU and was played the day before, on New Year’s Eve, necessitating a short turnaround to convert the field. The stadium held 75,504 people for the two games, however both home teams fell to the visitors.

Artificial grass was placed in 1970 and removed in 1993 to make way for the FIFA World Cup in 1994. The elevation of the playing field is approximately 450 feet (140 m) above sea level.

Cotton Bowl Stadium Seating Plan

The Cotton Bowl Stadium seating layout accommodates supporters’ requirements and preferences. It has a variety of seating options, including as lower-level seats, upper-level sections, and luxury boxes. The stadium’s architecture ensures superb sightlines, allowing fans to see every exciting moment on the field or stage. Additionally, the seating plan ensures optimal comfort and accessibility for all guests.

Stadium Parking

Ample parking choices surround the Cotton Bowl Stadium, making it easy for tourists to get there. There are several parking lots and garages nearby, making it easy to get a parking place. It is best to arrive early, especially during big events, to get a sufficient parking place.

Cotton Bowl Stadium Bags Policy

  • Clear bags and tiny clutches are permitted.
  • Large bags, backpacks, and opaque containers are not permitted.
  • Cotton Bowl Stadium is a no-smoking establishment.
  • Tobacco use, including e-cigarettes and vaping, is prohibited.
  • Upon arrival, visitors are subjected to security checks.
  • Cooperation with security staff is valued in order to maintain a secure atmosphere.
  • Individuals with disabilities can use the stadium’s accessible seating, bathrooms, and amenities.
  • Requests and prior preparations can be made through the stadium’s accessibility services.

Can I bring food and beverages inside the stadium?

Inside Cotton Bowl Stadium, outside food and beverages are not permitted. Within the premises, concession stalls selling a range of food and beverages are available.

Is tailgating permitted before events?

Tailgating regulations may differ from one event to the next. For further information, see the relevant event guidelines or contact the stadium authorities.

Are pets permitted at the stadium?

Pets are not permitted inside Cotton Bowl Stadium, save for assistance animals.

Is there a guided tour of the stadium?

Yes, guided stadium tours are provided on certain days. The excursions take you behind-the-scenes.

 

 

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