Watching the Detroit Lions in action as a family is nothing short of a magical experience. From the majestic stadium around Ford Field to the relentless football community of Detroit, the Lions can bring childlike excitement out of both parents and kids.
The NFL experience at Ford Field is a great option for a family outing — especially with the impressive record the Lions have maintained so far in the 2025 season. Ford Field also lies in the heart of Detroit, with plenty of things to do around the stadium to keep the fun going for the whole day.
Here is everything you need to know about tickets, traditions and what to bring to a family game day at Ford Field. Plus, be sure to explore:
- An overview of the “big three” football experiences in Michigan
- Our guide to cheering on a University of Michigan Wolverines football game
- Tips on visiting a Michigan State University Spartans football game
Games coming to Ford Field
The Lions are off to an impressive start in 2025. Now is the perfect time to witness their strength. Here are the remaining home games for the season:
- Minnesota Vikings: Nov. 2, 2025
- New York Giants: Nov. 23, 2025
- Green Bay Packers: Nov. 27, 2025
- Dallas Cowboys: Dec. 4, 2025
- Pittsburgh Steelers: Dec. 21, 2025
Check out the Detroit Lions’ regular-season game schedule online for the latest times and updates.
Costs for tickets to Lions games
Ticket prices for Ford Field vary depending on opponent, but typically range from $300 to upwards of $1,000. Tickets can be purchased online or at select reselling sites.
The Detroit Lions also offer group ticket deals for either standard or premium seating online. If you’re planning to attend a game with a group, submit your request ahead of time, as group seating is limited. Find out more at the standard group ticketing page.
Don’t forget to budget for concessions, parking and Lions gear for the kids.
Pre- and post-game fun
Tailgating is a huge part of Lion pride, and there are plenty of family-friendly options as you travel from Downtown Detroit to Ford Field.
- Eastern Market: The main spot for Lions tailgates, Eastern Market is bustling with fans on every gameday. The lots are typically open from 8 a.m.- 5 p.m. Tickets can be purchased online.
- Lions VIP Tailgate: The VIP tailgating location is right beside Eastern Market, offering features like open food, drink and local DJ talent with your ticket. Tickets are $125 for adults and $60 for kids, with deals for tailgate and game ticket combinations.
- Pride Plaza: A free pregame option and adjacent to Ford Field, tailgate festivities at Pride Plaza start at 10:30 a.m. and include food trucks and bar stands, kids’ games and a drum performance of the Honolulu Boom.
- Downtown Detroit lots: Tailgating fans are found in all corners of Downtown Detroit, and it is not uncommon to discover tailgates at the different paid parking lots around the area. Parking prices typically range from $40-$80.
The Detroit Lions also have an exclusive kids club called the Detroit Lions Cub Club, where younger Lions fans can receive gameday perks, access to exclusive merch and special events outside of game time.
Ford Field stadium amenities
Before heading to Ford Field with your family, get to know the family-friendly resources inside the stadium:
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- Family restrooms: There are 13 family restrooms scattered around the stadium. Find the one closest to your seat online.
- Kid zones: For Cub Club members, the UMCU Cub Club Fan Cave is a fun spot to explore Lions history, open until halftime. There is also a sensory room located on the second level of the stadium, accessible at Guest Services. Nursing rooms are available, too. Find more information online.
- Stadium eats: Ford Field doesn’t let fans go hungry. Here are some of the options inside the stadium. Find more in the online directory.
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- Great Lakes Burger Bar (sections 119, 135)
- Little Caesars (sections 111, 123, 131, 226)
- Uncle Joe’s Chicken Fingers (sections 219, 235, 313)
- The Cold Truth softserve (section 243)
Parking + food before or after the game
Finding a parking spot is the first order of business before a Lions game. Spot Hero is a handy website for finding the closest lots to Ford Field. Spots range from $20 to $50.
If your family plans to tailgate, check the transportation options available for your lot. Tailgates like the Lions VIP Tailgate offer free shuttles to Ford Field with your ticket.
Once you’ve found parking, finding food is next in line. Whether it’s Detroit-famous coney dogs or Detroit-style pizza, celebrating a Lions win with an authentic post-game meal is necessary. Here are the spots to check out before or after the game:
- Buddy’s Pizza: Serving Detroit-style pizza just a few blocks from Ford Field, Buddy’s is a fan favorite.
- American Coney Island or Lafayette Coney Island: For an off-field rivalry, opt for one of these Detroit classics. Or try both and decide which is the winner!
- JoJo’s Shake Bar: JoJo’s is a modern diner featuring burgers, fries and other bar food. Don’t forget pre-game cocktails for parents and milkshakes for the kids.
Get the detailed football guides
Discover the family insider scoop for all three major football experiences in Michigan! That also includes college guides to Wolverines football and Spartans football.
This content is sponsored by Southeast Michigan Ford Dealers. Visit buyfordnow.com. Find more articles like this at Metro Parent’s Ultimate Family Road Trip Guide.
