Photo: Ed Nicholson
Photo: Summer
Photo: Daniele Cuppari
Highmark Stadium
★4.5(8,682 reviews)$$$Sports
🕑 Stadium tours last approximately 60-90 minutes. NFL games take 3-3.5 hours, though with pre-game activities and post-game traffic, plan for a 6-7 hour commitment on game days.👶 Best for ages 5 and up. School-age children and teens will appreciate the excitement of live football and understanding the game, while the stadium tours are engaging for kids who can handle the walking and stay engaged with the guided experience. Younger children may find games long and loud, though they often enjoy the tailgate atmosphere and mascot appearances.🧡 Saved by 300+ families
About
Highmark Stadium brings the electric atmosphere of NFL football to life for families, with the Buffalo Bills creating unforgettable game day memories in Orchard Park. Beyond game days, the stadium offers behind-the-scenes tours where kids can walk through the tunnel, see the locker rooms, and feel like part of the team, making it a must-visit for young sports fans.
Highlights
- ✓Walking through the player tunnel onto the field during stadium tours
- ✓Meeting Billy Buffalo, the enthusiastic Bills mascot who entertains throughout games
- ✓Watching the Bills Mafia's famous tailgate traditions and team spirit
- ✓Seeing the visiting team locker room and learning about NFL operations
- ✓Experiencing the roar of 70,000+ fans during touchdown celebrations
Pro Tips
- 1.Book stadium tours in advance during the off-season when they're less crowded and kids can take their time exploring without game day chaos
- 2.Arrive early on game days to enjoy family-friendly tailgating in the lots,many Bills fans are welcoming to families and the pre-game atmosphere is part of the experience
- 3.Bring ear protection for younger children as stadium noise levels can reach over 100 decibels during exciting plays
- 4.Dress in layers and bring blankets for late-season games,Western New York weather can be unpredictable and the stadium can get very cold
- 5.Look for family sections when purchasing tickets, which tend to have less rowdy crowds and are more comfortable for children
Best Time to Visit
Stadium tours are best during summer weekdays when the schedule is more flexible and temperatures are comfortable. For games, early-season matchups (September-October) offer milder weather and are easier for kids to sit through than cold November-December games. Sunday afternoon games are most family-friendly compared to evening or Monday night games.
What to Know
Game day tickets vary widely in price ($50-$300+), while stadium tours are typically $10-15 per person. Parking opens several hours before kickoff and fills quickly; arriving 3+ hours early gives families time to tailgate and enjoy the atmosphere. The stadium offers kid-friendly concessions including chicken tenders, pizza, and hot dogs.
Seasonal Notes
Football season runs September through January, with potential playoff games in January. Stadium tours are available year-round but have limited availability during the season and on event days. Late-season games can involve snow and freezing temperatures,check weather forecasts and dress accordingly. The stadium occasionally hosts other events like concerts and college games during the off-season.
Nearby Eats
Duff's Famous Wings (about 10 minutes away) is a Buffalo institution perfect for families wanting authentic wings in mild flavors for kids. The Orchard Park location has a casual atmosphere and menu items beyond wings for picky eaters. For a quicker option, try Billy Beez inside nearby McKinley Mall, which combines a kid-friendly restaurant with an indoor play area.
More Activities Near Orchard Park
Sports
Rolling Hills Golf Course
★4.7$❤️116
Rolling Hills Golf Course in Orchard Park is a welcoming introduction to golf for kids of all experience levels. With dedicated junior programs and professional lessons tailored for young golfers, this family-friendly course makes the sport accessible and fun without the intimidation factor of more exclusive clubs.
Park
Baker Road
Free❤️7
Baker Road Park is a welcoming neighborhood park in Orchard Park that offers everything families need for an active outdoor day. With well-maintained playground equipment for multiple age groups, wide open fields perfect for soccer or frisbee, and scenic walking paths ideal for stroller walks or family bike rides, it's a go-to spot for local families seeking quality outdoor time without the crowds of larger parks.
Ice Cream
Armadillo Ice Cream Shoppe
$
Armadillo Ice Cream Shoppe is an Orchard Park favorite where families gather for delicious Perry's ice cream served in freshly-made waffle cones that fill the shop with an irresistible aroma. The friendly staff are patient with indecisive little ones, and the generous portions make it a sweet reward after sports games, park visits, or just because it's summer in Western New York.
Park
Forks Hotel Park
Free
Forks Hotel Park in Orchard Park offers a perfect blend of active play and relaxation for families. With well-maintained playground equipment, basketball courts for energetic kids, and plenty of open green space, it's an ideal spot for letting children burn off energy while parents enjoy the peaceful community atmosphere. The pavilion provides welcome shade for picnic lunches and gatherings.