Buffalo Bills Tailgating
With the capacity to hold over 70,000 screaming fans, the New Era Stadium, home of the Buffalo Bills, is a great venue to watch football. When you’re in Buffalo, it’s all about awesome tailgate parties and spicy buffalo chicken wings.
Event information
What Makes Buffalo Bills Tailgating Special?
Buffalo Bills tailgating at Highmark Stadium delivers an experience unlike any other in professional sports. Bills Mafia—the team's devoted fan base—has earned legendary status for creating one of football's most passionate, welcoming, and downright wild tailgating atmospheres. From tables being smashed to elaborate pre-game spreads featuring Buffalo wings and Labatt Blue, the energy in the parking lots rivals the action inside the stadium.
The tailgating culture here transcends typical parking lot parties. It's a community celebration where strangers become friends, generations connect over shared passion, and every home game feels like a reunion. Rain, snow, or shine (especially snow), Bills Mafia shows up hours early to fire up grills, set up games, and create the sea of red, white, and royal blue that defines Western New York football tradition.
Highmark Stadium's location in Orchard Park—a suburb just south of Buffalo—creates the perfect blend of accessibility and authentic football atmosphere. The stadium sits surrounded by ample tailgating space, while Buffalo's downtown attractions and Niagara Falls' natural wonder remain within easy reach. The region's four-season climate means you might tailgate in crisp fall weather or during a legendary Buffalo snowstorm, adding to the adventure.
To maximize your Bills Mafia experience, explore Buffalo RV rentals for the widest selection and convenient airport access, or discover Orchard Park RV rentals to stay closest to Highmark Stadium.
Tickets
How Much Does Bills Tailgating Cost?
Bills game experiences involve several cost components, with pricing varying based on opponent, weather conditions, and season performance.
Parking:
- Stadium-controlled lots: $40 per car (advance purchase required)
- Private lots: $20-$75 depending on location and amenities
- RV parking at private locations: $50-$150 (Wings Meeting Place and other private lots)
Game Tickets: Prices fluctuate significantly, ranging from $50 for upper-level seats against weaker opponents to $200+ for division rivals and playoff contenders. AFC East matchups, primetime games, and late-season contests command premium pricing.
Explore Buffalo Bills Tailgating RV Rentals
Transportation
Driving
Buffalo is located in the western part of the state, and it’s close to the Canadian border. Many major highways intersect with the city. Major cities such as New York City, Philadelphia, and Baltimore are just a few hours away, which makes Buffalo the perfect place for a weekend getaway in your RV. Do be careful, however, if driving in the winter because snowstorms and icy roads do happen. Toll routes are present along I-90 and across 1-190 (Grand Island to the north).
Parking areas
RV parking is available at the Colton RV Camper Lot, but it’s required to buy the parking space in advance. Contact the Bills ticket office as soon as possible if you’re interested. RV parking spaces are highly coveted, and they tend to sell out before the first kickoff of the season. The lot opens up the day before the game and closes midday the day after, which means you can start your tailgate early. It’s no wonder everyone wants a parking space.
Public Transportation
The Buffalo area has a decent-sized transit system with multiple bus lines and metro lines that can take you to many places in the city. If you want to avoid driving your RV to the stadium and paying for parking, it’s possible to hop on public transit to get to the stadium. The NFTA-Metro website is comprehensive and has a built-in trip planner to help you find a route that fits your schedule.
Where to stay
Onsite
The Colton RV Camper Lot is the only lot that allows RV camping, and you must park the day before the game when the lot is open. Parking when the lot is closed is not permitted, and you must leave the day after the game by the designated time. Apart from the port-a-johns on-site, there are no other amenities. Pets are permitted, but they must be leashed at all times. For a more amenity-packed camping experience, explore nearby campgrounds.
Alternative RV Parking Options
Wings Meeting Place provides the most popular private RV parking option, conveniently located on California Road on Highmark Stadium's eastern side. This private lot welcomes all vehicle types, including RVs, and offers excellent pricing with easy post-game exits. The location at Wings Flights Of Hope picnic grove provides ample space for tailgating.
Other Private Lots: Several private property owners around the stadium offer RV-friendly parking, typically ranging from $50-$150 per game. These spaces often provide more flexibility than official lots, though amenities and tailgating permissions vary by property. Arrive early to secure spots, as availability is limited.
Nearby
Rather than relying on stadium parking, many Bills fans now use nearby full-service campgrounds as their base, driving to the stadium in tow vehicles or using rideshare services for hassle-free game day.
Niagara Falls/Grand Island KOA sits just 20 minutes north of the stadium on Grand Island in the Niagara River. This family-friendly campground offers 50-amp electrical service, Wi-Fi, cable TV, and accommodates RVs up to 80 feet. The facility features two pools (summer season), a small fishing lake, canoe and paddleboat rentals, banana bike rentals, a jumping pillow, a video arcade, and a dog park. The location puts you midway between Highmark Stadium and Niagara Falls—perfect for combining football with sightseeing.
Niagara Falls North/Lewiston KOA offers a quieter rural setting in Youngstown, about 35 minutes from the stadium. Sites accommodate RVs up to 75 feet with full hookups or electric/water only (30 and 50 amp service), featuring shaded areas and fire rings. Amenities include a swimming pool, a playground, a dog park, wine tasting, pancake breakfast, Wi-Fi, cable TV, and laundry facilities. The campground provides easy access to Lake Ontario, Fort Niagara, and, of course, Niagara Falls.
Medina / Wildwood Lake KOA sprawls across 300+ waterside, sunny, and shaded sites about an hour from Buffalo. This lakeside campground accommodates RVs up to 80 feet with full hookups and 50-amp electrical connections. Complimentary Wi-Fi and cable TV come standard, while the off-leash dog park welcomes pets. Located near Lake Ontario's southern shore, the campground offers easy access to both Bills games and the region's wine country.
Evergreen Trails Campground provides a tranquil 200-acre base in Allegany County, about 90 minutes southeast of Buffalo. Perfect for extended stays combining Bills games with exploring Letchworth State Park ("Grand Canyon of the East"), the Finger Lakes wine region, and Corning Museum of Glass. Sites feature electricity and water connections with dump station access, fire rings, picnic tables, bathhouses, and private fishing ponds.
These campgrounds offer significant advantages over stadium parking: full hookups, shower facilities, comfortable amenities, and the ability to arrive days before the game without time restrictions.
Getting around
With multiple tailgate events happening on game weekends, it can be difficult to get to them all, but they are usually within walking distance. A little extra walking may be in store if you want to visit several stops. Bikes, scooters, golf carts, and wheeled devices are not permitted in the Colton RV Camper Lot.
What to pack
Clothing
Buffalo weather can be unpredictable and often harsh, especially during late-season games. Layer your clothing strategically—thermal base layers, insulating mid-layers, and weather-resistant outer shells. Bills Mafia proudly embraces the elements, but smart preparation makes the difference between memorable and miserable.
For September and early October games, temperatures typically range from 50-70°F—comfortable but cooling quickly after sunset. November through January brings the legendary Buffalo cold, with temperatures often below freezing and wind chills making it feel even colder. Don't forget Bills gear to show your colors! The team shop and merchandise stands throughout the stadium accept cash and cards if you need to pick up additional gear on game day.
Winter Tailgating Essentials:
- Insulated boots with traction
- Multiple pairs of gloves (they get wet)
- Face masks or balaclavas for extreme cold
- Hand and toe warmers
- Emergency blankets
- Hot beverage thermoses
- Waterproof outer layers
Gear
Bills Mafia takes tailgating seriously. Pack your favorite team flags, folding chairs rated for cold weather (plastic chairs crack in freezing temperatures), and portable tables (yes, for that purpose). Bring grills, coolers, and serving equipment—tailgating here is a potluck celebration where sharing with fellow fans is tradition.
Consider pop-up canopies for shade or weather protection, portable heaters for late-season games, and battery-powered lights if you're arriving early. Bring games like cornhole, ladder toss, or football for pre-game entertainment.
Health & Safety
Cold-weather safety is paramount for late-season Bills games. Hypothermia and frostbite risks are real when temperatures drop and wind picks up. Pack hand and toe warmers, extra layers, emergency blankets, and hot beverages in thermoses.
Prepare for long periods on your feet by bringing comfortable, insulated boots with good traction for potentially icy conditions. Pack a comprehensive first aid kit with pain relievers, bandages, and cold-weather specific supplies like lip balm and moisturizer.
Where to eat
Cooking
Bills tailgating traditions center around food. Grilling is permitted in stadium parking lots and most private lots, creating aromatic clouds of smoke that mingle with the excitement. Fire up your charcoal or gas grill for burgers, brats, wings, and more.
Buffalo wings are non-negotiable—bring your favorite sauce or try making authentic Buffalo-style wings with Frank's RedHot and butter. Other local favorites include beef on weck sandwiches, kielbasa, and anything that can be cooked in quantity and shared with fellow fans.
Remember to dispose of hot coals properly in designated containers if using charcoal. Most lots have specific disposal areas to prevent fires and damage.
Restaurants
Western New York offers incredible dining, particularly its world-famous chicken wings. The Buffalo area has countless wing joints, each claiming to serve the best—Duff's, Anchor Bar (wings' birthplace), Gabriel's Gate, and Bar Bill Tavern in nearby East Aurora all have devoted followings.
Beyond wings, explore Buffalo's diverse food scene: beef on weck at Schwabl's, pizza at Bocce Club or La Nova, Polish food along Broadway in Buffalo, and Italian cuisine in the West Side. Orchard Park and the surrounding suburbs offer everything from chain restaurants to local gems within minutes of the stadium.
Vendors
Inside Highmark Stadium, you'll find traditional stadium fare alongside Buffalo specialties. Grab authentic Buffalo wings, beef on weck sandwiches, hot dogs, nachos, and more. All concessionaires accept both cash and credit cards.
The stadium also features local favorites like Mighty Taco and other regional brands alongside standard arena concessions. Prices reflect typical stadium pricing, so eating heartily at your tailgate beforehand is recommended.
Safety
Security
Highmark Stadium maintains strict security protocols to ensure safe, enjoyable experiences for all fans. All vehicles undergo security inspection before entering parking areas, and all people pass through screening when entering the stadium.
Pack only clear bags or small clutches that meet NFL bag policy requirements. Leave unnecessary items in your RV—only bring what you need inside. Security personnel patrol parking lots and enforce the stadium's Code of Conduct, which prohibits disruptive behavior, foul language, binge drinking, paraphernalia, and anything deemed dangerous or inappropriate.
Weather
Buffalo weather commands respect. The city's location at the eastern end of Lake Erie creates lake-effect snow conditions that can rapidly deteriorate visibility and road conditions. September typically brings pleasant fall weather, while October introduces cooler temperatures and occasional rain.
November through January defines legendary Bills weather—snow, wind, and bitter cold create the atmosphere where Bills Mafia legends are born. Highmark Stadium features a modern design but remains fully open to the elements, meaning you'll experience whatever Mother Nature delivers.
Monitor weather forecasts closely before traveling, especially for late-season games. Winter storms can make driving treacherous, and stadium access roads can become difficult to navigate. Your RV provides shelter during extreme weather, making it ideal for Buffalo's unpredictable conditions.
Medical
First aid stations staffed by trained medical professionals operate throughout Highmark Stadium during all games. If you need medical assistance, notify any stadium staff member who can direct you to the nearest first aid station or summon help.
For serious medical emergencies, several hospitals operate within 15 minutes of Orchard Park, including Mercy Hospital South and ECMC in Buffalo. Pharmacies and urgent care facilities are readily available throughout the Buffalo suburbs.
