Biggest MLS Soccer Stadiums

lumen stadium

This article takes a closer look at the biggest MLS soccer stadiums, showcasing the architectural marvels and unique features that set these venues apart. From state-of-the-art retractable roofs to record-breaking attendance numbers, these stadiums have played a significant role in shaping the landscape of professional soccer in the U.S. and Canada. So, without further ado, let’s delve into the criteria for inclusion in this list and explore the top five biggest MLS soccer stadiums.

Top 5 biggest MLS soccer stadiums

Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta United FC

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Location and year of opening

Located in the heart of Atlanta, Georgia, the Mercedes-Benz Stadium opened its doors in 2017. This state-of-the-art venue is home to both the Atlanta United FC and the NFL’s Atlanta Falcons. The stadium is known for its stunning architecture and innovative features, making it one of the most unique sporting venues in the world.

Stadium capacity

With a seating capacity of up to 71,000 for soccer matches, the Mercedes-Benz Stadium is currently the largest soccer-specific stadium in Major League Soccer. The stadium’s seating arrangement can be adjusted to fit the varying requirements of soccer and football games, allowing for a versatile and intimate experience for fans of both sports.

Unique features

One of the most striking features of the Mercedes-Benz Stadium is its retractable, eight-panel “oculus” roof, which resembles a camera aperture when opening and closing. This innovative design allows for an open-air experience during fair weather, while providing protection from the elements when needed. The stadium also boasts a 360-degree, 63,000-square-foot halo video board, which is the largest LED video display in the world. In addition, the venue is known for its commitment to sustainability, holding the distinction of being the first professional sports stadium in the U.S. to achieve LEED Platinum certification.

Memorable matches and events held at the stadium

Since its opening, Mercedes-Benz Stadium has hosted numerous memorable soccer matches, including the 2018 MLS Cup Final, where Atlanta United secured their first championship in front of a record-breaking crowd of 73,019 fans. The stadium has also played host to international soccer events, such as the 2021 CONCACAF Gold Cup and various high-profile friendly matches.

MetLife Stadium, New York Red Bulls

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Location and year of opening

Situated in East Rutherford, New Jersey, MetLife Stadium opened its gates in 2010. While primarily known as the home of the NFL’s New York Giants and New York Jets, the stadium also occasionally hosts New York Red Bulls soccer matches, especially during high-profile events or when the team’s main venue, Red Bull Arena, is unavailable. MetLife Stadium’s impressive design and modern amenities make it a popular destination for sports and entertainment events.

Stadium capacity

MetLife Stadium has a maximum seating capacity of 82,500, making it the second-largest venue to host MLS soccer games. The stadium is designed to provide excellent sightlines and an engaging atmosphere for fans of both soccer and football.

Unique features

The MetLife Stadium features a partially open-air design, with vast windows that allow natural light to stream into the stadium, creating a bright and inviting atmosphere. The stadium is equipped with four massive 30×118-foot HD video display boards in each corner, ensuring that fans have a clear view of the action on the field. Additionally, MetLife Stadium has a range of luxury suites, clubs, and lounges, providing a premium experience for visitors.

Memorable matches and events held at the stadium

MetLife Stadium has been the venue for several notable soccer matches, including a 2011 friendly between the United States Men’s National Team and Argentina, which ended in a thrilling 1-1 draw. Additionally, the stadium has hosted various editions of the Copa America Centenario, featuring top teams from North and South America. In 2016, the stadium was the site of the tournament’s final, where Chile defeated Argentina in a nail-biting penalty shootout to claim the championship.

Soldier Field, Chicago Fire FC

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Location and year of opening

Nestled along the shores of Lake Michigan in Chicago, Illinois, Soldier Field is a historic stadium with a storied past. Originally opened in 1924, it has undergone significant renovations, with the most recent one completed in 2003. Soldier Field is primarily home to the NFL’s Chicago Bears, but it also serves as the home field for the Chicago Fire FC of Major League Soccer.

Stadium capacity

Soldier Field has a seating capacity of 61,500, making it the third-largest stadium in MLS when hosting soccer matches. The arena’s design allows for an intimate and immersive atmosphere, with fans enjoying excellent views of the action from all angles.

Unique features

Soldier Field boasts a blend of historic architecture and modern amenities. The stadium’s iconic colonnades, a remnant of its original design, are juxtaposed with contemporary elements, such as its sleek, spaceship-like exterior. The stadium offers a variety of premium seating options, including luxury suites and club seats, providing an enhanced experience for fans. In addition, Soldier Field is dedicated to sustainability, having earned LEED-EB (Existing Building) certification.

Memorable matches and events held at the stadium

Soldier Field has been the backdrop for numerous unforgettable soccer moments over the years. In 1994, the stadium was one of the venues for the FIFA World Cup, hosting group stage matches as well as a round of 16 match between Brazil and the United States. The stadium has also been the site of several high-profile international friendly matches, including a 2014 clash between the United States Men’s National Team and Mexico, which ended in a 2-2 draw. In 2003, Soldier Field hosted the MLS All-Star Game, where the MLS All-Stars defeated Mexican club Chivas de Guadalajara 3-1.

Lumen Field, Seattle Sounders FC

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Location and year of opening

Located in the vibrant city of Seattle, Washington, Lumen Field first opened in 2002. The stadium primarily serves as the home of the NFL’s Seattle Seahawks, but it has also been the home of the Seattle Sounders FC since the team joined Major League Soccer in 2009. With its modern design and stunning views of the city skyline, Lumen Field has become a beloved sports venue in the Pacific Northwest.

Stadium capacity

Lumen Field has a seating capacity of 68,740 for soccer matches, making it the fourth-largest stadium in MLS. The stadium offers a versatile seating configuration that can be tailored to accommodate both soccer and football games, providing an engaging and intimate atmosphere for fans of both sports.

Unique features

One of the most notable features of Lumen Field is its partial roof design, which covers 70% of the seating area, protecting fans from Seattle’s notorious rain while still allowing for an open-air experience. The stadium also boasts a large, high-definition video display, known as the “Hawk’s Nest,” which provides fans with an immersive visual experience. Furthermore, Lumen Field is known for its commitment to sustainability, with numerous eco-friendly initiatives in place, such as solar panels and water conservation systems.

Memorable matches and events held at the stadium

Lumen Field has played host to many memorable soccer matches since the Seattle Sounders FC joined MLS. In 2019, the stadium was the site of the MLS Cup Final, where the Sounders defeated Toronto FC 3-1, claiming their second championship in front of a record-breaking crowd of 69,274 fans. The venue has also hosted international soccer events, such as the 2013 CONCACAF Gold Cup and numerous friendly matches featuring top teams from around the world.

Nissan Stadium, Nashville SC

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Location and year of opening

Nissan Stadium is situated on the east bank of the Cumberland River in Nashville, Tennessee. Opened in 1999, the stadium is primarily the home of the NFL’s Tennessee Titans, but it also serves as the temporary home for Nashville SC since the team’s debut in Major League Soccer in 2020. The stadium offers picturesque views of the Nashville skyline, making it a striking backdrop for soccer matches.

Stadium capacity

With a seating capacity of 69,143 for soccer games, Nissan Stadium ranks as the fifth-largest stadium in MLS. The venue’s design ensures that fans have excellent views of the action on the field, creating an engaging atmosphere for both soccer and football games.

Unique features

Nissan Stadium is known for its impressive, four-story scoreboard towers, which feature large high-definition video screens and an LED ribbon board encircling the entire stadium. This state-of-the-art display system ensures that fans have a clear view of the action and can fully engage with the game. The stadium also offers a variety of premium seating options, including luxury suites and club seats, providing an enhanced experience for visitors.

Memorable matches and events held at the stadium

Since becoming the temporary home of Nashville SC, Nissan Stadium has hosted several notable soccer matches. In 2020, the stadium witnessed Nashville SC’s inaugural MLS home game, where they faced Atlanta United FC in front of a passionate crowd of over 59,000 fans. The venue has also been the site of international soccer events, such as the 2017 CONCACAF Gold Cup and various friendly matches featuring renowned teams from across the globe.