If you’ve ever wondered about the San Francisco 49ers stadium, the home of one of the NFL’s most historic franchises, there’s no better time to explore it. Known officially as Levi’s Stadium, the arena stands in Santa Clara, California, serving as both the 49ers’ headquarters and one of the premier sports and entertainment venues in the country.
As of 2026, Levi’s Stadium continues to make headlines as the host of Super Bowl LX, marking a decade since it last welcomed football’s biggest stage. Beyond the upcoming championship, it remains a symbol of innovation, sustainability, and California pride.
Location and Overview
While fans associate the 49ers with San Francisco, the San Francisco 49ers stadium is located about 40 miles south of the city, right in the center of Silicon Valley. Its proximity to the tech industry has shaped the design and technology that define the stadium today.
- Address: 4900 Marie P. DeBartolo Way, Santa Clara, CA 95054
- Opened: July 17, 2014
- Owner: City of Santa Clara
- Operator: San Francisco 49ers
- Seating Capacity: 68,500 (expandable to 75,000 for major events)
- Primary Tenant: San Francisco 49ers (NFL)
The stadium anchors a massive entertainment complex that includes restaurants, a team museum, and retail spaces. Its architecture and energy-efficient systems make it a model for future stadium projects across the U.S.
From Candlestick to Santa Clara
For decades, the 49ers played at Candlestick Park, an iconic but aging venue in San Francisco. By the late 2000s, the team sought a modern facility to match its legacy and fan expectations. Groundbreaking for Levi’s Stadium began in April 2012, and the project was completed just over two years later, with a construction cost of about $1.3 billion.
When it opened in 2014, Levi’s Stadium instantly became one of the most technologically advanced sports venues in the world. Its design embraced both sustainability and innovation, two hallmarks of the Bay Area.
Architectural Design and Features
The stadium’s design, led by HNTB Architects, emphasizes comfort, visibility, and sustainability. The structure features an open-bowl concept with wide sightlines, ensuring nearly every seat provides an unobstructed view of the field.
Signature Design Highlights:
- Two massive video boards in each end zone measuring 48 by 200 feet.
- 9,000 premium club seats and 165 luxury suites.
- Climate-friendly roof garden providing insulation and improving air quality.
- Silicon Valley technology integration, including high-speed Wi-Fi and mobile connectivity throughout the venue.
- Panoramic concourses allowing fans to walk around the stadium while watching the game from multiple angles.
The design reflects Northern California’s character — modern, sustainable, and deeply connected to the community it serves.
Commitment to Sustainability
Levi’s Stadium holds a LEED Gold certification, making it one of the most environmentally advanced facilities in the NFL. Sustainability is woven into its daily operations and infrastructure.
Key Sustainability Features:
- Solar Power: More than 1,000 rooftop solar panels generate enough energy to offset all home game power usage.
- Recycled Water: The stadium uses reclaimed water for toilets, cooling systems, and landscaping.
- Green Roof: A 27,000-square-foot living roof tops the suite tower, reducing heat and improving energy efficiency.
- Public Transit Access: Designed to minimize car dependency, with easy access via Caltrain and the VTA Light Rail.
This commitment to eco-friendly design aligns with the values of both the 49ers organization and the broader Silicon Valley region.
Super Bowl 2026: Returning to the Bay Area
The San Francisco 49ers stadium will host Super Bowl LX on February 8, 2026, marking the second time the venue has welcomed the NFL’s championship game. The first was Super Bowl 50 in 2016, which saw the Denver Broncos defeat the Carolina Panthers in Peyton Manning’s final game.
The upcoming Super Bowl is expected to draw more than 70,000 fans in person and hundreds of millions watching worldwide. The halftime show will feature Taylor Swift, making this event one of the most anticipated in recent memory.
For Santa Clara and the entire Bay Area, this will bring significant economic benefits and global attention, showcasing the region as a leader in sports, technology, and entertainment.
Home of the 49ers
Levi’s Stadium has been home to some of the most memorable 49ers moments of the past decade. It continues to be a fortress for the team, combining the energy of passionate fans with the latest in sports infrastructure.
The 49ers’ facilities, including training centers, locker rooms, and player recovery areas, are all housed within the stadium complex. The building also features the SAP Performance Lab, where the franchise uses analytics and modern fitness technology to enhance athletic performance.
The stadium’s location also places it near the team’s training headquarters in Santa Clara, ensuring year-round access for players and staff.
Beyond Football: A Multipurpose Venue
While Levi’s Stadium is synonymous with football, it has become one of the busiest multipurpose arenas on the West Coast.
Major Events Hosted:
- College Football: Annual Pac-12 Championship Game.
- Soccer: International matches, including the U.S. Men’s and Women’s National Teams and top European clubs.
- Concerts: World tours by Beyoncé, Ed Sheeran, Taylor Swift, and Metallica.
- WrestleMania 31: Held in 2015, drawing over 76,000 attendees.
In addition to entertainment, the stadium hosts corporate gatherings, charity events, and tech conferences, capitalizing on its Silicon Valley location.
Fan Experience
A visit to Levi’s Stadium offers more than just football. Fans enjoy an immersive experience blending technology, comfort, and hospitality.
Fan Amenities Include:
- The 49ers App: Provides real-time stats, seat upgrades, mobile ticketing, and in-seat ordering.
- Local Dining Options: Features Bay Area favorites like Tony’s Pizza Napoletana and Smokehouse BBQ.
- Team Store: One of the NFL’s largest retail spaces for 49ers merchandise.
- Family-Friendly Zones: Designated areas for children, families, and accessibility needs.
- Luxury Clubs: Exclusive lounges with premium food and beverages, including the United Club and BNY Mellon Club.
The stadium’s app and high-speed Wi-Fi allow fans to stay connected throughout their visit — a must-have in Silicon Valley.
The 49ers Museum
Within the stadium lies the 49ers Museum, a 20,000-square-foot tribute to the team’s legendary history. It’s an essential stop for visitors who want to relive the franchise’s greatest achievements.
Museum Highlights:
- Super Bowl Trophy Gallery: Showcasing all five of the team’s Lombardi Trophies.
- Hall of Fame Section: Featuring legendary players like Joe Montana, Jerry Rice, Steve Young, and Ronnie Lott.
- Interactive Exhibits: Fans can simulate calling plays and re-watch historic moments.
- Education Center: Hosts youth programs focused on STEM learning and leadership.
The museum is open year-round and included with stadium tours, offering fans a deep connection to the team’s past and future.
Accessibility and Transportation
Getting to Levi’s Stadium is straightforward for both local and visiting fans. The city of Santa Clara has invested heavily in transit systems and accessibility features to accommodate large crowds.
Transportation Options:
- Caltrain and VTA Light Rail: Drop fans directly at the stadium.
- Ride-Sharing Zones: Dedicated pick-up and drop-off points for Uber and Lyft users.
- Parking: Over 20,000 spaces available across several lots.
- Bike Access: Designated lanes and bike storage areas for eco-conscious fans.
With enhanced traffic management systems, the stadium efficiently handles events hosting tens of thousands of spectators.
Recent Upgrades Ahead of 2026
Ahead of hosting the Super Bowl, Levi’s Stadium underwent several upgrades during 2024–2025.
Major Enhancements Include:
- Next-generation video boards with higher resolution and HDR support.
- Wi-Fi 6E network providing faster and more reliable connectivity.
- New premium suites with upgraded hospitality services.
- Improved lighting and sound systems for concerts and prime-time games.
- Expanded security technology utilizing AI for faster crowd monitoring.
These renovations ensure the stadium remains on par with newer venues across the country while enhancing comfort and fan safety.
Economic and Community Role
The San Francisco 49ers stadium has been a cornerstone of the Santa Clara economy. Since opening, it has generated billions in tourism revenue, job creation, and community investment.
Economic Impact Highlights:
- $2.7 billion in cumulative regional economic benefits since 2014.
- Over 10,000 jobs supported annually.
- Partnerships with local schools and nonprofits through the 49ers Foundation.
The 49ers Foundation focuses on youth education and community programs, having contributed over $70 million to local initiatives since Levi’s Stadium’s opening.
Looking Ahead: FIFA World Cup 2026
In addition to the Super Bowl, Levi’s Stadium will also host several matches during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will take place across North America. The venue’s infrastructure and capacity make it an ideal location for one of the world’s largest sporting events.
Hosting both the Super Bowl and the World Cup in the same year will solidify the stadium’s reputation as a world-class sports destination.
The Perfect California Venue
With its sunny weather, modern design, and sustainability focus, Levi’s Stadium embodies everything fans expect from California’s sports culture. The venue continues to attract millions annually, offering a mix of football, concerts, and global entertainment.
For the 49ers, it’s more than just a home field — it’s a symbol of the team’s identity and its connection to the Bay Area community.
What’s your favorite memory from Levi’s Stadium? Share your experience in the comments and join the conversation about this California icon.