Green Bay Hotel Guide
Getting ready for a Packers game? Tickets, check. Travel plans, check. Game day gear, check. But where to stay? That's the big question! Finding the right place to crash can be tricky, especially if you're coming from out of town. There are lots of things to consider, like how far it is from Lambeau Field, the price, and the hotel's rules.
The affordable option
If you're looking to save some money on your lodging, think about staying outside of Green Bay. Places like Shawano, Oshkosh, or Appleton are about a 30 to 45-minute drive away. Staying in these areas can help you avoid paying extra for multiple nights. Plus, there's not as much demand, so you might not have to book a long time ahead. If you really want to stay in Green Bay, you can check out the Bay Motel on Military Ave. It's not super fancy, but it's a decent place to sleep. Just know that it fills up fast once the schedule is released, so act quickly. Also, be prepared for a two-night minimum stay and higher rates. The good news is it's only 1.4 miles from Lambeau Field, so you can walk there, especially in the fall, which can save you money on parking.
- Opponent: The ticket prices can vary based on the Packers' opponent. Games against NFC North rivals or other NFC powerhouses like the Cowboys, Seahawks, or Falcons tend to command higher prices due to the heightened demand to witness these clashes. Additionally, if the Packers face a team with a fervent fan base, such as the Steelers, ticket prices can rise due to increased demand.
- Packers' Record: Although the Packers have maintained a sold-out status since 1960, acquiring Packer tickets becomes more feasible during less successful seasons. For instance, in 2017, when Aaron Rodgers was sidelined with a collarbone injury, ticket holders were eager to sell their tickets. Prior to the Monday Night game against the Lions, some "fans" were selling their tickets for as low as $20 each. Conversely, after Super Bowl XLV, ticket prices surged, making them harder to find at reasonable prices. Fans tend to flock to games where their team is expected to win.
- Time of Year: Lambeau Field's design exposes fans to challenging weather conditions. As winter approaches, typically around December, ticket availability can improve, depending on the opponent and the team's performance. Some season ticket holders may sell their tickets when the weather becomes too harsh for their liking. Preseason games also offer an opportunity for budget-friendly tickets, with prices often as low as $25-30 per ticket. While preseason games may not provide the same experience as regular-season games, they can be a cost-effective way to enjoy Lambeau Field, especially for families with young children. In contrast, playoff games see increased demand regardless of weather conditions, as they represent a win-or-eliminate scenario.
- Time of Purchase: Taking the risk of purchasing tickets close to game day can yield significant savings. Keep an eye on ticket prices as the game approaches. Prices tend to drop as kickoff time nears, with season ticket holders lowering their prices in hopes of selling their tickets.
"Where can I purchase tickets?"
In recent years, the Packers have transitioned to a mobile ticketing system, eliminating printed tickets. While this has reduced the risks associated with ticket purchases, caution is still advised, especially when considering transactions on platforms like Craigslist, where the legitimacy of sellers can be uncertain.
When purchasing tickets from unfamiliar sources, it's prudent to use verified ticket vendors. Numerous websites provide a secure shopping experience. Here are some examples:
Compare prices across these platforms to determine the best deal. Keep in mind that while some tickets may appear cheaper on one site, they may have higher fees during checkout. Green Bay Ticket Service is always my starting point due to its transparent prices and lack of fees.
For those who enjoy the thrill of last-minute ticket hunting, consider visiting Lambeau Field on game day. Check ticket prices as kickoff time approaches. While there's a risk of missing out, you might score fantastic seats at a fraction of the cost as fans discount their tickets in a bid to sell them before the game begins.
There are various avenues to secure tickets, and this guide aims to provide you with valuable insights into buying tickets for a Packers game. If you have any unanswered questions, please don't hesitate to reach out. Feel free to send me an email, message me on Facebook, or send me a text, and I'll do my best to assist in any way I can.