Finding parking for a Cincinnati Bengals game can be a challenge, especially if you want to get a good spot that won’t cost you an arm and a leg. As a devoted Bengals fan, you’ll want to plan ahead and know the best parking options near Paul Brown Stadium before game day. Here’s an overview of the top places to park for a Bengals game and what to expect from each location.
Parking at Paul Brown Stadium
Parking right at the stadium is obviously the most convenient option for a Bengals game. There are over 4,000 parking spaces available in lots surrounding Paul Brown Stadium. However, stadium parking spots fill up fast and can be expensive. Here are the key things to know about parking at the stadium:
- Cost is $60 per game for general parking. Preferred and premium parking can cost up to $140 per game.
- Parking lots open 5 hours before kickoff.
- Payments are by credit card only on game day – no cash payments allowed.
- Season parking passes are available if you want to guarantee a spot for every home game.
- Tailgating is allowed in designated parking areas.
The main advantage of stadium parking is the convenience of being right next to the action. However, the high prices and early arrival required make it less desirable for budget-focused fans.
General Parking
General parking offers basic spaces closest to the stadium for $60 per game. These spots fill up extremely quickly on game day.
Preferred Parking
Preferred parking gets you slightly better spots than general parking and costs $90 per game. These are in Lots D and E nearest to the gates.
Premium Parking
Premium parking is closest to the stadium and costs $140 per game. These premium spots are located in Lots A, B, and C for ultimate convenience.
Off-Site Parking Near Paul Brown Stadium
To avoid the headaches of stadium parking, many fans opt to park at off-site lots and garages within walking distance. This can save money and time compared to on-site parking. Here are some of the top options:
Lots Near the Banks
The Banks is the name for the riverfront entertainment district located just west of Paul Brown Stadium. There are several large parking lots located here, typically charging $20-40 for event parking. Tailgating is also allowed in these lots. Key lots to check out include:
- Lot P6 – 161 E Freedom Way
- Lot P7 – 160 Joe Nuxhall Way
- Lot T – 100 Joe Nuxhall Way
These lots are an easy 10-15 minute walk to the stadium.
Washington Park Garage
The Washington Park Garage is located downtown less than half a mile from Paul Brown Stadium. Event parking rates are $20. There is no tailgating allowed. The address is:
- Washington Park Garage
815 W Pete Rose Way
Cincinnati, OH 45203
Riverfront Garage
Another good option is the Riverfront Garage just across from The Banks. Event rates are $25 with no tailgating permitted. The address is:
- Riverfront Parking Garage
126 E Mehring Way
Cincinnati, OH 45202
Prime Cincinnati Garage
The Prime Cincinnati Garage is located about 0.3 miles north of the stadium. Parking rates are around $20-25 per car. Tailgating is not allowed. The address is:
- Prime Cincinnati Garage
112 E 8th St
Cincinnati, OH 45202
Getting to the Stadium from Off-Site Parking
If you park at any of the off-site garages or lots near downtown, it’s an easy walk of anywhere from 5-15 minutes to Paul Brown Stadium. Just follow the crowds of orange and black jerseys! You can also catch the Cincinnati Bell Connector streetcar which has a stop right at The Banks next to the stadium. Fares are only $1 per ride or $2 for a day pass.
Where to Park on the Kentucky Side
Some fans choose to park across the river in Northern Kentucky to avoid the congestion downtown. Here are two good options that provide shuttle service to the stadium:
Newport on the Levee
This dining and entertainment destination is located just south of the Purple People Bridge in Newport, Kentucky. Parking rates are $10-20. Shuttles to the stadium start 2 hours before kickoff and cost $2 roundtrip.
- Newport on the Levee
1 Levee Way #2118
Newport, KY 41071
BB&T Arena at NKU
Northern Kentucky University offers parking and shuttle service from the BB&T Arena for $10 per car. Shuttles begin 2.5 hours before kickoff. No tailgating is permitted.
- BB&T Arena at NKU
500 Nunn Dr
Highland Heights, KY 41099
Getting Dropped Off Near the Stadium
Another option is to get dropped off near Paul Brown Stadium rather than parking. This can save you time and money, although your driver will need to budget extra time for pickup after the game due to road closures.
Good drop-off locations include:
- Dropoff Zone on Mehring Way
- Elm Street near the West Entry Plaza
- Joe Nuxhall Way by the East Entry Gate
Just beware of significant post-game traffic near the stadium that can delay pickup.
Using Rideshare Services
Apps like Uber and Lyft make getting to and from Paul Brown Stadium simple. Prices may surge before and after the game, so expect to pay more than a normal fare.
Benefits of ridesharing include:
- No parking fees
- Dropoff right at stadium entrance
- Avoid post-game traffic jams
Designated rideshare pickup and dropoff zones are located on Mehring Way and Joe Nuxhall Way near the stadium gates.
Taking Public Transportation
Public buses and trains can get you to Paul Brown Stadium without the parking headache. Here are some public transit options for game days:
Cincinnati Metro
Metro buses provide regular service to Paul Brown Stadium on routes such as the #46 and #78. Day passes are $2 per person. However, buses can get stuck in heavy traffic before and after games.
Cincinnati Streetcar
The Cincinnati Bell Connector streetcar has a stop at The Banks station right next to the stadium. Streetcars arrive every 12-15 minutes and fares are $1 per ride or $2 all day.
Walking from Downtown
If you don’t mind a leisurely walk, downtown hotels and attractions are only about 1 mile from Paul Brown Stadium.
Key Tips for Parking at a Bengals Game
Keep these tips in mind to make parking and getting to your seats as smooth as possible on game day:
- Arrive early – Lots open 5 hours before kickoff.
- Bring cash – Some off-site lots are cash only.
- Book parking in advance – Reserve ahead online if possible.
- Travel light – Limit what you bring to make walking easier.
- Check gate policies – Know rules on tailgating, re-entry, etc.
- Have backup options – In case a lot fills up, be ready to pivot.
- Allow extra time – Add buffer for traffic, parking shuttles, etc.
Top Places to Park for a Bengals Game By Location
Here is a quick reference table summarizing the best parking options by location:
Location | Parking Options | Approx. Cost |
---|---|---|
At Stadium | Paul Brown Stadium lots | $60-140 |
Downtown Cincinnati | Washington Park Garage, Riverfront Garage, Prime Cincinnati Garage | $20-25 |
The Banks | Lots near Great American Ball Park | $20-40 |
Northern Kentucky | Newport on the Levee, BB&T Arena at NKU | $10-20 |
Final Tips
Attending a home game to support the Bengals is an unforgettable experience. With limited parking available right at Paul Brown Stadium, planning exactly where you’ll park is crucial to ensure you get into the lot and into your seats with the least amount of hassle. Scout locations in advance and arrive early to get your ideal parking spot!