Ford Field

Opened in 2002, Ford Field is home to the Detroit Lions of the National Football League. In addition, the facility hosted Super Bowl XL in 2006, the NCAA Men's Basketball Final Four in 2009 and is the current host to college football's Mid-American Conference Championship Game and Quick Lane Bowl.

Ford Field Parking
Because of its location in downtown Detroit, parking does get expensive around Ford Field. The parking structure on the other side of St. Antoine Street costs $35-45 on gameday, while parking anywhere else within a short walk of the stadium will cost about $20. A little further away in downtown, street parking is free, but plan on arriving three hours or more prior to gametime.

Hotels near Ford Field
The Hilton Garden Inn and Holiday Inn Express are both nearby options that will run about $180-200 per night. Cheaper options are available in the suburbs and across the border in Windsor at about $120-150 per night. For a cool experience, stay in the Marriott at the Renaissance Center, which features numerous restaurants and shops within the complex and offers great views of the city.

Seating at Ford Field
Being rectangular in shape instead of ovular, the seating configuration offers some good and some bad views. In the 300-level ($45-50 per ticket face value), corner areas give fans odd angles that face the sidelines, but that's the worst you'll encounter. Lower-level seating runs about $150 or higher. Family-friendly seating is available in Section 315, where no alcohol or profanity is allowed.

Food at Ford Field
Food does run a little expensive, but there is a huge selection in the main concourse. Hungry Howie's Pizza runs about $9-10 per slice and a wide assortment of hot dogs at Extreme Dogs goes $7-8. For a unique option, go to Pegasus Greek Tavern near Section 113 or gluten-free options outside Section 217. The Barry Sanders Fresh and Fit Meal is also a good option for the health-conscious at $7-8.

Beer at Ford Field
Budweiser, Bud Light and Labatt are the primary beers within the stadium and one cup will cost between $8-10. Several local microbrews are also available, including the Michigan Craft Beer concession stand outside Section 129. Those, though, will run $10-13 per cup.

Parking Alternatives at Ford Field
There are multiple shuttle options available on gameday. Eastern Market offers a park-and-ride service, while establishments in the Greek Town and Cork Town neighborhoods also offer buses. In each case, costs runs anywhere from free to $10.

What to Bring to Ford Field
Being that it is an indoor stadium, there is no need to bundle up or pack sunscreen, but it may be a brisk walk outside in November, December and January. Per security policies, be sure to avoid bringing large purses or backpacks into the stadium.

Insider Tip for Ford Field
Since it is in downtown, make sure to arrive several hours early. There are plenty of areas to hang out inside and outside the stadium, so take in the atmosphere.

Author's bio: Michael Benson is a life-long Illinois resident and an avid traveler throughout the Midwest.