For enthusiasts of art, the Louvre is a must-visit. Opera lovers flock to La Scala. Similarly, for fans of American football, Lambeau Field, home to the Green Bay Packers, stands as a shrine. This iconic stadium, known as the Frozen Tundra, has witnessed legends like Hornung, Starr, Lombardi, and Favre lead the Packers to 13 championships. It’s a destination every football fan aspires to visit, a pilgrimage I recently embarked upon.
Lambeau Field is unique among NFL venues, nestled in a residential neighborhood rather than isolated by commercial zones. Savvy visitors skip the stadium’s blacktop lot in favor of parking on the lawns of nearby houses. This grassy setup offers a more comfortable pre-game experience and transforms each house into a lively party. Fans arrive with coolers full of beverages, and tailgating here isn’t just about brats on the grill—it’s a competitive culinary event featuring everything from steaks to chili and chicken booyah.
The Packers themselves are distinct within the NFL. Unlike other teams with wealthy owners, the Packers are a public, non-profit corporation owned by the people of Green Bay. This community ownership means the team is deeply rooted in the city, with no risk of relocation. If the team were ever sold, the profits would fund a significant soldier’s memorial through the Sullivan-Wallen Post of the American Legion, a testament to the team’s unique structure.
Funding for stadium improvements has come from operating profits and stock sales. Though this stock holds no market value, it’s priceless to the fans who own shares. I attended a game with my neighbor, Robert Lux, a proud stockholder. Like most owners, Lux’s shares are more symbolic, displayed prominently in his home.
Our journey to Green Bay started in a 2015 Infiniti QX80 AWD, a spacious SUV competing with models like the Cadillac Escalade and Lincoln Navigator. We packed the QX80 with tailgating essentials—tables, chairs, coolers, a grill, and an array of food. Despite our concerns about space, the vehicle’s split-folding third-row seat comfortably accommodated five people and all our gear.
The QX80 excels in comfort and capability. While it can handle off-road challenges, our journey only required navigating a grassy parking spot near the stadium. The ride was smooth and quiet, typical of a large SUV, but the QX80’s 5.6L V8 engine provided a sportier feel with 400 horsepower and 413 lb.-ft. of torque. This power, combined with advanced features like adaptive cruise control and a 360-degree monitor, made our drive enjoyable. Our model also included the Deluxe Technology Package, offering hydraulic body control, lane departure warning, and blind spot monitoring. However, the interior comfort, enhanced by semi-aniline leather heated seats, was most appreciated given the cold weather.
Arriving in Green Bay, we parked two blocks from Lambeau for just ten dollars. We quickly set up our grill and enjoyed a feast of steak sandwiches and local beers—Spotted Cow and Hopalicious. Tailgating at Lambeau is an experience in itself, with house parties, themed vehicles, and a community atmosphere that’s unrivaled.
The stadium blends historic charm with modern amenities. While it boasts luxury boxes and advanced facilities, the original bowl with aluminum benches remains. Fans stood throughout the thrilling game against the Detroit Lions, soaking in the authentic atmosphere.
Preparing for the cold is essential for tailgating at Lambeau. Quality boots and insulated clothing are necessary. I opted for Carhartt overalls and an Eddie Bauer parka, ensuring warmth throughout the day. For those preferring indoor pre-game activities, nearby bars and restaurants, like Kroll’s, offer great alternatives. Kroll’s, with its authentic old-school charm, serves exceptional charcoal-grilled burgers topped with butter—a must-try.
Overall, the fan experience at Lambeau is exceptional. The friendly crowds, the stadium’s blend of tradition and modernity, and the palpable history create a memorable atmosphere. The convenience of the Infiniti Connection App, which allowed me to start our warm QX80 from the stadium, added to the enjoyment. The comfortable, smooth drive home in the QX80 capped off a perfect pilgrimage to the heart of football lore.
