I have tailgated at AT&T Stadium for over 40 games. Here is everything you need to know heading into the 2026 season.
Parking and setup:
- Lot 4 (east side) is the best tailgate lot. Opens 5 hours before kickoff. $75 for cars, $150 for RVs. Source: dallascowboys.com/parking.
- Lot 10 and 12 are budget options at $50. Farther walk but less traffic on exit.
- No glass bottles allowed in any lot. Cans and plastic only.
- Generators are permitted but must be 20 feet from other vehicles.
Food setup tips:
- Brisket: Start at 5 AM if you are smoking. A 12-pound brisket takes roughly 10-12 hours so plan for overnight cooking or bring it pre-cooked.
- Best simple setup: Blackstone griddle, smash burgers, and sausages. Fast, feeds a crowd, minimal cleanup.
- Bring shade. The Arlington parking lots are asphalt and September games can still be 95 degrees.
What to bring:
- Folding table and chairs (obvious but people forget)
- Disposable plates — no one wants to wash dishes in a parking lot
- Trash bags. Leave your spot cleaner than you found it.
- Portable speaker. Keep volume reasonable until 3 hours before kickoff.
Pro tips:
- Walk the lots. The tailgate community is welcoming. People will offer you food and beer if you are friendly.
- Use the restrooms inside Texas Live before heading to your lot. The porta-potties in the lots are rough by late morning.
- Post-game: Stay in your spot for 45-60 minutes after the game ends. The traffic exodus is brutal and an extra hour of tailgating saves you sitting in gridlock.
Sources:
- dallascowboys.com/gameday — official policies
- Personal experience, 2019-2025 seasons
Bring a canopy. I cannot stress this enough. I got sunburned so badly at the Week 1 tailgate last year that I could not sleep that night. September in Arlington is no joke.