Ready for some good old-fashioned American football? Now that football season is here, we thought it be only be fair to give our readers an inside look at what the top NFL stadium have to offer to tailgaters.
To narrow our list, we used three criteria: The number of lots provided for tailgating by each stadium, the tailgating rules and restrictions it applies, and the number of times a stadium has appeared on other round-ups of best tailgating venues. Those mentioned repeatedly as one of the best for tailgating got major points; on the other hand, stadiums that don't permit alcohol or RVs in their lots lost points.
Some go above and beyond the average tailgating traditions. You've probably heard of beer-can chicken, but do you know about the infamous Pittsburgh mobile tailgating unit?
Best NFL Stadiums For Tailgating
No. 7: Heinz Field, Pittsburgh
When we discuss what each stadium has to offer, it usually involves something along the lines of parking lots, foods or booze. Heinz Field is one of the only stadiums on our list that provides something no other stadium provides: A fan-based, mobile tailgating unit, or MTU, out of a repurposed ambulance.
No. 7: Heinz Field, Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh tailgaters ride in style, with pizza, beer, and burgers on board. An added bonus: There are bathrooms on board. The only downside is that other RVS are not allowed on the stadium's property.
No. 6: Ralph Wilson Stadium, Buffalo
There's an outdoor area near the parking lot that's dedicated to Ralph Wilson tailgaters, but that's not the main attraction for Bills fans. The real party is at The ADPRO Sports Training Center -- not officially part of the stadium, but adjacent to it.
No. 6: Ralph Wilson Stadium, Buffalo
With plenty of people, pizza, and (of course) Buffalo wings, this pre-game venue offers the biggest indoor tailgate party in the league.
No. 5: Arrowhead Stadium, Kansas City
If you're planning on attending a Chiefs game, get plenty of rest. The pre-game party here attracts football fanatics as much as five hours before game time, making it pretty much an all-day affair. The most important components at this tailgate are the two B's: Beer and bacon.
No. 5: Arrowhead Stadium, Kansas City
It doesn't matter whose tent you visit, the food is always served with bacon, if not wrapped inside it. An Arrowhead Stadium tailgate is a full-blown bacon extravaganza that attracts visitors from all around the country.
No. 4: Gillette Stadium, New England
Only the most diehard football fans are willing to bear a blizzard for their beloved team, so you know how dedicated the tailgaters of Gillette Stadium are. Besides, what better way to stay warm than by bundling up and sipping that famous New England clam chowder?
No. 4: Gillette Stadium, New England
The spread of clams, scallops and other delicious seafood present at Patriot parties is impressive, but the restrictions against tailgating in some lots kept Gillette Stadium from stealing a spot in the top three.
No. 3: Lincoln Financial Field, Philadelphia
Lincoln Financial Field allows tailgating on all lots. Despite two Super Bowl losses, the relationship between this team and its fan base has become stronger and stronger. Though the Eagles fans are always hoping for a W, the scoreboard doesn't play a role in the atmosphere of these pre-game parties.
No. 3: Lincoln Financial Field, Philadelphia
No matter what the outcome of the game is, there is always plenty of pizza, pretzels and taste-bud-tingling cheesesteaks for everyone to enjoy.
No. 2: Soldier Field, Chicago
Who cares about the wind? This hardy tailgate is known for fans facing the cold and grilling some of the best steaks around. Solider Field is near the top of our list because it provides the best of both worlds, including lots with absolutely no restrictions and two family-friendly lots that welcome children.
No. 2: Soldier Field, Chicago
You can bring whatever you want to eat or drink, but Chicago is famous for its grilled Krispy Kreme doughnuts. Yes, you read that right. What could be better?
No. 1: FirstEnergy Stadium, Cleveland
Before you start talking about the Browns unimpressive record, hear us out. This team's continuous losing streak is one of the main reasons it has snagged our No. 1 spot. Ohio natives take the game of football very seriously, no matter how their team may play. The Browns losing streak allows their fans to give their undivided attention to food, booze, and unique tailgating traditions.
No. 1: FirstEnergy Stadium, Cleveland
Chili, fried turkey and Bloody Marys fill the tents of Cleveland football fanatics, making this one of the heartiest tailgates around. If you're ever lucky enough to experience a tailgate at here, be sure to try the famous beer-can chicken, a whole bird roasted with a can of beer in its cavity.
For the complete list of the Best NFL Stadiums for Tailgating go to TheDailyMeal.com.
More From The Daily Meal:
-- Healthy Alternatives to Your Favorite Stadium Food
-- The 8 Healthiest Beers to Pack in Your Tailgate Cooler
-- Healthiest Foods to Bring to a Tailgate
-- 10 Myths About Your Favorite Sports Drinks
