Bank of America Stadium

Janet Benoir

By Janet Benoir | June 30, 2025

In the heart of Uptown Charlotte stands a structure that pulses with energy, pride, and Carolina grit. Bank of America Stadium rises from South Mint Street like a fortress of celebration, drawing fans and travelers alike into its electric embrace. With a seating capacity surpassing 74,000 and a legacy rooted in both sports and spectacle, it has become a defining landmark of Charlotte’s cultural and entertainment landscape.

Whether you’re cheering for a touchdown, chanting for a goal, or singing along under the lights, the stadium transforms every event into an experience that stays with you long after the final whistle.

The Pulse of the Carolinas

Bank of America Stadium opened its gates in 1996 and quickly cemented its place as a sporting stronghold. Home to the NFL’s Carolina Panthers and MLS’s Charlotte FC, the venue pulses with hometown pride on game days. Football fans flood the surrounding streets, filling parking lots with grills, coolers, and camaraderie. The scent of barbecue drifts through the air, tailgating games unfold, and the anticipation builds as fans march toward the towering entrances.

Inside, the atmosphere is electric. The upper levels might lack the polish of newer arenas, but recent renovations have enhanced the experience across the board. Most seats offer excellent sightlines, and massive video boards bring every angle of the action to life. The roar of the crowd resonates through the structure, especially during a close Panthers win or a crucial Charlotte FC goal.

On non-game days, the stadium doesn’t rest. It turns into a stage for global icons and high-stakes tournaments. Beyoncé brought her powerhouse vocals to the field in 2023, while George Strait and Chris Stapleton filled the stands in 2024. During the CONMEBOL Copa América 2024, Charlotte played host to two pivotal matches: Colombia’s 1-0 semifinal victory over Uruguay and Uruguay’s shootout triumph over Canada in the third-place playoff. These events brought an international flair to the venue, reaffirming its position as a world-class destination.

Design Meets Function

Bank of America Stadium isn’t just about what happens on the field. Its structure and amenities are designed to support a wide range of experiences, from casual fan visits to formal corporate gatherings.

Event spaces within the stadium reflect both elegance and scale:

  • Atrium Health Dome: A versatile indoor venue with capacity for 1,600 guests
  • South and North Club Lounges: Each holds up to 650 guests, ideal for receptions and large gatherings
  • Red Zone Lounge and Panthers Den: Spacious, dynamic venues for corporate events or lively celebrations
  • Locker Room Lounge and Press Box Lounge: Unique spots blending function with the feel of behind-the-scenes prestige
  • Suite 87 and The Vault: More intimate, premium spaces with a capacity of 150 to 250 guests

The stadium’s thoughtful layout makes navigation smooth and efficient. Escalators, well-marked signage, and helpful staff contribute to a welcoming experience for first-time visitors and returning fans alike. Even during sold-out events, the flow of the crowd is managed with care. Security presence is concentrated outside the stadium, creating a sense of safety without being overbearing inside.

The Details That Make It Special

Standing guard at the entrances are six larger-than-life black panther statues, nicknamed the Indomitable Spirit. These fierce guardians reflect the strength and drive that defines the teams and fans who call this stadium home.

Inside, the food scene doesn’t disappoint. Bojangles boxes come highly recommended, delivering Southern comfort food with a satisfying punch. Concessions lines may stretch long, but roaming vendors and satellite beer carts help keep service swift and spirits high.

VIP suites offer an elevated experience. These air-conditioned boxes are often fully catered, with a range of beverages and upscale dining options. For guests lucky enough to score access, it’s a refined way to watch the action while enjoying the comforts of private service.

Location That Connects

The stadium’s Uptown location places it squarely within walking distance of Charlotte’s top hotels, restaurants, and attractions. Post-game evenings might include a steak at Mico, craft cocktails at a rooftop bar, or a stroll to the nearby NASCAR Hall of Fame or Discovery Place Science. For daytime visitors, it’s part of a broader urban experience that’s both accessible and exciting.

Charlotte’s public transportation and parking options offer ease of access, though traffic around the stadium after events can be dense. With a little patience or a short walk to distant parking lots, visitors can manage the flow without much hassle.

Memories in the Making

From a first MLS match to a last-minute NFL ticket grab, from high-profile concerts to international soccer showdowns, Bank of America Stadium brings people together in ways that linger. Reviews from fans speak of laughter, triumph, occasional rainstorms, and unforgettable nights. Whether it’s your first time under the stadium lights or your fiftieth, the experience never grows old.

This isn’t just a stadium. It’s a gathering place, a proving ground, and a celebration hub. For those passing through Charlotte or calling it home, Bank of America Stadium is where the city’s spirit comes alive.