A Guide to the Stadium
Paycor Stadium, the open-air home of the Cincinnati Bengals since its debut in 2000, is situated prominently on the banks of the Ohio River in the heart of downtown Cincinnati. Originally known as Paul Brown Stadium before its 2022 rebranding, the venue serves as a centerpiece for the city's riverfront renaissance and offers fans picturesque views of the water and Northern Kentucky.
Getting to the Stadium
The stadium sits in downtown Cincinnati, on the riverfront between the Ohio River and the Central Business District. Its downtown location makes it accessible by car, on foot from hotels, or by bus.
Driving & Parking
- DrivingFrom I-75 South, take Exit 1G (Pete Rose Way) and follow signs to stadium parking. From I-71 South, merge onto I-75 South and use the same exit. From Kentucky (I-75 North), cross the Brent Spence Bridge and take the Pete Rose Way exit. Game-day traffic on Pete Rose Way and Mehring Way begins building 2-3 hours before kickoff.
- ParkingThe Riverfront between Paycor and Great American Ballpark (Reds home) is filled with both garages and surface lots. Fans are encouraged to pre-purchase their parking through the team's website. The Purple CRG garage is Premium while lot's 1, B, D and E directly abut the stadium but parking here is very limited. The General James Taylor lots across the river in Newport, Kentucky are a popular cheaper option with a walk across the Roebling Bridge. Downtown Cincinnati garages on 3rd and 4th Streets are also within walking distance. For tailgate supplies, Kroger has multiple convenient downtown locations. For beverages, Hyde Park Wine & Spirits offers a premium selection, Queen City Wine & Spirits downtown is convenient, and The Party Source across the river in Bellevue, Kentucky is one of the largest liquor stores in the country — a destination in itself with an absurd selection of craft beer, wine, and spirits.
Public Transit
- The Southbank Shuttle (aka the Trolley)A fan favorite for those staying in Northern Kentucky (Bellevue, Newport, and Covington). It crosses the Ohio River and drops you right near the stadium.
- The Cincinnati Bell Connector (Streetcar)This free 3.6-mile loop connects downtown, Over-the-Rhine, and the Banks neighborhoods. Use it if you’re staying further north in the city or want to park in a cheaper lot away from the stadium.
Rideshare
- The rideshare pick up & drop off location is at 2nd St & Vine north of the stadium, about halfway between Paycor and Great American Ballpark
Pregame Festivities
Cincinnati's pregame scene is anchored by The Banks (the riverfront entertainment district adjacent to the stadium), the Over-the-Rhine neighborhood (a 10-15 minute walk north), and the Covington/Newport Kentucky side across the Roebling Bridge. The combination gives fans everything from dive bars to craft cocktail lounges.
Pregame Bars & Restaurants
- Located on Freedom Way in The Banks, this is the most popular pregame bar for Bengals fans. Directly adjacent to the stadium, it features multiple levels, craft beer, and a game-day atmosphere that rivals any in the NFL. Arrive early — it fills to capacity hours before kickoff.
- A brewery and restaurant on The Banks with riverfront patio seating and views of the stadium and the Ohio River. They offer a full bar alongside German-inspired pub fare.
- A beer focused bar on The Banks offering an extensive craft beer list and a laid back atmosphere. It's close to the stadium and less hectic than Holy Grail, making it a good option for those who prefer conversation over chaos.
- A sports bar near the stadium with a loyal following among Bengals fans. Standard sports bar fare, plenty of TVs, and a rowdy game day crowd.
- A modern bar and restaurant on The Banks offering craft cocktails, creative bar food, and a sleek atmosphere. It skews younger and trendier than the traditional sports bars.
- A pizza joint in the Mainstrasse Village neighborhood of Covington, Kentucky, just across the river. Their giant New York-style slices are legendary and the perfect pregame fuel. About 15 minutes on foot from the stadium across the Roebling Bridge.
- You cannot visit Cincinnati without trying Skyline Chili. The signature Cincinnati-style chili — thin, cinnamon-spiced, and served over spaghetti with a mountain of shredded cheese (a 3-way) — is polarizing but essential. Multiple nearby locations make it an easy pregame stop.
- Located in the Over-the-Rhine neighborhood, this restaurant is widely considered one of the best fried chicken spots in America known for their hot honey chicken.
- A jazz bar in the Mt. Adams neighborhood offering live music, craft cocktails, and a cozy, intimate atmosphere. It's a different kind of pregame
- A food hall in OTR above the Kroger grocery store featuring multiple vendors under one roof. It's a great option for groups who want variety offering everything from ramen to tacos to Mediterranean.
For a unique pregame experience, walk across the John A. Roebling Suspension Bridge to Covington, Kentucky. Built in 1866, it was the prototype for the Brooklyn Bridge and offers stunning views of the Cincinnati skyline and riverfront.
Monuments & Unique Features
- The JunglePaycor Stadium is nicknamed The Jungle (from the "Welcome to the Jungle" Guns N' Roses anthem), and the Bengals lean into this identity with tiger-striped design elements throughout the stadium.
- Ring of HonorDisplayed on the East façade inside Paycor Stadium, the Ring of Honor recognizes the "best of the best" former players, coaches, and individuals who played a significant role in franchise history.
Seating & Special Sections
- Club LevelPadded seats with extra width, access to the climate-controlled Club Lounge with premium food and beverage, and private restrooms. Located on the 200 level.
- Luxury SuitesOver 100 suites across multiple levels, accommodating 12-24 guests with catering and private amenities.
- The Jungle ZoneAn interactive fan area with games, entertainment, and food options — designed for families and casual fans.
- Upper Deck River Views (Sections 301-310)Upper deck seats on the north offer views of the Ohio River and Northern Kentucky beyond the stadium rim.
Concessions
- Signature ItemsSkyline Chili coneys and 3-ways are available throughout the stadium. LaRosa's Pizza, a Cincinnati institution, serves their signature thin-crust pizza. Montgomery Inn ribs bring another local legend to the concourses. Queen City Sausage, a local producer, supplies the stadium's signature sausages.
- Value ItemsStandard hot dogs, Jungle Snacks (nachos in a helmet), pretzels, and popcorn are available throughout.
- DrinksRhinegeist, MadTree, and other Cincinnati craft breweries are well-represented at dedicated stands. The city's brewing heritage (Cincinnati was once the brewing capital of America) is celebrated throughout the concession program. Standard domestics are everywhere.
Stadium Information
Notable Events
- 106-point (combined) game vs Browns in 2004 (2nd most in NFL History)
- Corey Dillion 278 Rushing Yards (then record)
Suggested Places
Recommended places to visit near this stadium