Whether you need to buy a parking pass for FedExField, the home stadium of the Washington Commanders NFL team, depends on several factors. In general, parking at FedExField is limited and a parking pass guarantees you a spot, allows tailored parking options, and can provide some money-saving benefits. However, parking passes are not required and some fans opt to find parking in nearby lots instead. Considering your parking priorities and budget can help determine if purchasing a pass is right for you.
Parking Options at FedExField
FedExField has over 27,000 parking spaces in various lots surrounding the stadium. Options include:
Red Zone Parking
The closest parking to the stadium, located near entrances and offering the fastest stadium access. Requires a prepaid parking pass.
Purple Parking
Also close-in parking with passes required for prepaid lots. More affordable option compared to Red Zone.
Yellow Parking
More distant lots that can be prepaid or pay on entry. Further walk to stadium but a budget-friendly choice.
Green Parking
Outermost lots that are first-come, first-served only. Least expensive option but longest walk.
ADA Parking
Close-in parking for guests with disabilities. Must have proper credentials and parking pass.
Parking Type | Location | Pass Required? | Cost (approx.) |
---|---|---|---|
Red Zone | Nearest stadium | Yes | $60-$100 |
Purple | Close-in | Yes | $40-$60 |
Yellow | More distant | No/Yes | $20-$40 |
Green | Outermost | No | $20 |
ADA | Near stadium | Yes | Various |
Other Parking Areas
In addition to official stadium parking, there are privately managed lots and homeowner spaces nearby that provide parking options on game days without needing a pass. Prices and availability vary.
Benefits of Buying a Parking Pass
Purchasing a parking pass ahead of time for FedExField provides some key benefits:
Guaranteed Space
With a pass, you are assured of a parking spot within your chosen lot. This removes the uncertainty of finding an open space, especially helpful for sold-out or big rivalry games.
Potential Cost Savings
Buying early often means paying less compared to day-of-game rates. Season passes can lower costs further compared to buying individually.
Priority Access
Pass holders can enter lots earlier before general parking opens. This allows arriving at the same time as disabled parking and before non-pass holders.
Flexibility
Passes allow the flexibility to arrive later if needed. Lots are less likely to be full for pass holders. Can be helpful for variable traffic.
Premium Spaces
Some passes offer reserved spaces near entrances/exits for easier in-and-out access before and after games. Provides convenience.
Tailgating Allowance
Most parking passes permit setting up tailgates. Options like RV parking are available to enhance the pre-game festivities.
Reasons to Skip the Parking Pass
While parking passes have benefits, there are also reasons why purchasing one may not be necessary:
Cost
If trying to attend games on a budget, passes may be too expensive. Paying by the game can be significantly cheaper in outer lots.
Limited Attendance
For preseason or less popular games, passes are often not needed as parking is readily available without one.
Arriving Early
Non-pass holders can still park in Yellow or Green lots by arriving early before they fill up. Less convenient but saves money.
Using Ride Share
Services like Uber or Metro trains can remove parking needs altogether. May be cheaper than pass costs.
Walking from Nearby Lots
Parking in nearby private lots and walking allows avoiding stadium parking completely.
Tailgating Not Needed
If not tailgating, closer pass-only lots are not as necessary. Farther free lots work fine.
Ways to Purchase a Parking Pass
If deciding to buy a parking pass for FedExField, there are a few ways to purchase:
Online via Ticketmaster
Buying online through the stadium’s Ticketmaster page is the most popular method. Select exact lot and prepays cost.
By Phone
Calling the FedExField ticket office allows purchasing passes over the phone. Helpful for questions on best options.
In Person
Visiting stadium ticket office or box office on game day allows buying on site. Limited availability.
Season Ticket Packages
Season ticket holders can add parking passes at discounted rates as part of overall packages.
Third-Party Resellers
Sites like StubHub allow passes resales and transfers from other fans unable to use. Varying availability and pricing.
Conclusion
Purchasing a parking pass provides guaranteed entry and potential cost savings at FedExField. However, it is not an absolute requirement for parking at stadium lots. Fans should weigh the benefits of assured entry and premium spaces against the higher costs compared to non-pass options. Arriving early, using ride shares, and walking from nearby lots are ways to avoid pass costs. Checking parking priorities, typical attendance, group size, tailgating needs and budget can determine if buying a pass is your best choice. With limited on-site parking, passes can provide peace of mind but are not mandatory to enjoy game day.