Detroit Lions Tailgating

Camping at the tailgating event is not possible. The lots must be cleared two hours after each game. Fall and winter are times of the year for spectacular scenery in Michigan, so venture outside the city to view the colorful foliage of the trees. Take advantage of quieter campgrounds and enjoy the crisp air as you relax in your motorhome.

Stretch your arms to the edges of Detroit to find RV camping fit for a lion at the Monroe Co. / Toledo North KOA and a handful of other campgrounds in the area, all about an hour's drive from the stadium. Don't mind a bit of a drive west near Lake Michigan? Imagine exploring dunes and a frozen lake to or from a winter football game. You can do so at Warren Dunes State Park. Are you interested in seeing the “Grand Canyon of Michigan?” Make Sturgeon Falls a must-see stop as you tour Michigan. Muskegon State Park allows winter camping and has a luge run, too.

Expect the venue to be crowded and the people in attendance intent on getting to the game as they enter the stadium. Comfy shoes are a must for making your way about the tailgating field and traversing the stairs to your seat. Strollers and infant car seats are not permitted in the stadium due to the number of people at the game, so plan for this as you get the kiddos ready for the day.

If you are attending a fall or winter game, layering your clothes is essential. The stadium is indoors, so this may also help with transitioning from pre-game activities to your seats. A few items of clothing worn under your favorite team’s jersey could do the trick, but you may need a jacket, too. If you have one in team colors, all the better. Hats, scarves, and mittens are a necessity for the tailgating and for any exploring you plan to do in Michigan’s great outdoors in the fall and winter.

Remember the NFL clear bag policy and bring just a few items with you into the game. The list of prohibited items is extensive, so check the Detroit Lions website for information. Gear for the campground should include toiletries, extra blankets, lawn chairs, and cooking utensils. Before leaving home, sanitize the water system and add fresh water. Check the engine fluids and battery levels for a stress-free road trip.

Keep safety in mind for this road trip to Detroit. Don’t worry about being in a rush. Drive as you feel comfortable in the city and always consider child seatbelt safety in your rig. Give yourself plenty of time to stop when in traffic as driving an RV is very different than a car. Plan ahead and have your navigational tools prepped and ready to go. And remember, there is often alcohol at tailgating events, so assign a competent designated driver or take public transit if needed.

A tailgate weekend involves lots of food. In between the pregame burgers, hotdogs, and ribs, go for light salads and healthy sandwiches. Stock the RV fridge with the ingredients before you go, to include veggies and fruit alongside the party food. Check your inventory of utensils, bowls, and cleanup supplies to ensure a fun and easy experience.

Plenty of eateries surround Ford Field welcome fans for a hearty meal. If the tailgating menu left you hungry, plan on making a stop after the game for a Greek salad, Mexican taco, or New American fare such as barbecued chicken. You won’t have to go far for a satisfying meal, and many of the top eateries are accessible via public transit or a few minute's walk.

Visit a kiosk or the Detroit Lions pro shop to get football merchandise. Rainwear, sunglasses, watches, jewelry, and more salute the team. Purchase a sweatshirt for a cool evening if you don’t have one already. A knit hat will top your outfit; buy the kids a cute Trapper hat with tassels and coverings for the ears in case the game is a chilly one. ATMs are located on several floors and near Guest Services.