
Lower.com Field in Columbus, Ohio, is one of the newest and most exciting soccer-specific stadiums in the United States. Opened in July 2021, the venue serves as the home of the Columbus Crew, one of Major League Soccer’s original franchises. Sleek, modern and designed with fans in mind, Lower.com Field has quickly earned a reputation as one of the best places to watch soccer in North America.
With a capacity of 20,371, the stadium sits in the heart of Columbus’s Arena District, offering not just thrilling matches but also easy access to some of the city’s best entertainment, dining, and nightlife. Whether you’re there to support the Crew, attend a U.S. Men’s or Women’s National Team match or take in a concert, Lower.com Field promises a world-class experience.
Location: 96 Columbus Crew Way, Columbus, OH 43215
Opened: July 3, 2021
Capacity: 20,371
Primary Tenant: Columbus Crew (MLS)
Lower.com Field replaced the historic Historic Crew Stadium (formerly MAPFRE Stadium), which was the first soccer-specific stadium built for an MLS team back in 1999. While the old venue was iconic, the new facility represents a leap forward in terms of comfort, amenities and fan atmosphere.
The Columbus Crew unveiled their new home in 2021 with a raucous celebration that showcased the franchise’s stability and growth. After the “Save the Crew” movement in 2017 kept the team in Columbus, the new stadium became a symbol of the community’s dedication to its club.
The debut match at Lower.com Field took place on July 3, 2021, when the Crew hosted the New England Revolution in front of a sellout crowd. Since then, the stadium has hosted MLS playoff games, U.S. National Team matches and major concerts.
By Car: Lower.com Field is centrally located in the Arena District, just west of downtown Columbus. It’s easily accessible from I-670, I-70 and SR 315.
Parking: Several parking garages and surface lots are within walking distance. Pre-purchasing parking through SeatGeek or official channels is recommended on game days.
Public Transit: The Central Ohio Transit Authority (COTA) offers bus service throughout the city, with multiple routes stopping near the Arena District.
Walking/Biking: Thanks to its downtown location, many fans choose to walk from nearby hotels, restaurants or entertainment venues. Bike racks are also available outside the stadium.
Rideshare: Dedicated drop-off and pickup zones streamline rideshare access.
The stadium is designed for intimacy and atmosphere, ensuring fans feel close to the action from every seat.
Nordecke Supporters’ Section: The north end of the stadium is home to the Crew’s most passionate fans, the Nordecke. This standing-room section creates an electric, European-style atmosphere with chants, drums and tifos.
Premium Club Seats: The Lower.com Lounge, Rail Club and other premium seating areas offer all-inclusive food, drinks and upscale amenities.
Sideline Seats: Provide excellent views of the pitch, ideal for casual fans or families.
Corner Seats: Affordable options with unique perspectives of the field.
Suites: 30+ private suites are available for groups and corporate outings.
No matter where you sit, the roof canopy covers every seat, amplifying crowd noise and keeping fans comfortable in varying weather.
Columbus is a food city, and Lower.com Field brings that culture into its concessions. Local vendors are featured heavily, giving fans a taste of the city alongside traditional stadium fare.
Highlights include:
Hot Chicken Takeover: Famous for Nashville-style spicy chicken sandwiches.
Dos Hermanos Tacos: Locally loved tacos and burritos.
North High Brewing & Land-Grant Brewing Co.: Popular Columbus craft breweries on tap.
Donatos Pizza: A Columbus staple.
Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams: Known nationwide, but born in Columbus.
Alongside these local flavors, fans will also find burgers, hot dogs, nachos and international offerings like bao buns and kebabs.
Lower.com Field was built to maximize energy, intimacy, and fan connection. It’s one of the loudest and most passionate soccer atmospheres in MLS, thanks largely to the Nordecke supporters’ section.
Key features of the atmosphere include:
Nordecke Chants and Tifos: Continuous singing, flag-waving and tifo displays make the north end the heart of the stadium.
Safe Standing Section: One of the largest in MLS, accommodating over 3,300 fans.
Roof Canopy: Keeps sound inside, enhancing the stadium’s roar.
Downtown Setting: The energy of Columbus’s Arena District spills directly into matchdays.
For concerts and special events, the stadium transforms into a modern open-air entertainment venue with intimate vibes and premium sound.
Bag Policy: Clear bags up to 12" x 6" x 12" are permitted, as well as small clutches.
Cashless Venue: All concessions and retail are cashless.
Mobile Tickets: Digital entry through the SeatGeek app (the Crew’s official ticketing partner).
Re-Entry: Not permitted.
Prohibited Items: Outside food and drink, large flags, professional cameras and fireworks.
Since opening, Lower.com Field has quickly built a résumé of high-profile events:
MLS Matches: Regular season and playoff games for the Columbus Crew.
U.S. National Team Matches: Hosted both Men’s and Women’s National Team games, continuing Columbus’s tradition as a fortress for American soccer.
Concerts: Artists such as Green Day and Fall Out Boy have headlined the stadium.
Community Events: Festivals, charity matches and local gatherings take place throughout the year.
One of Lower.com Field’s biggest perks is its location in the Arena District, which is filled with bars, restaurants and entertainment options.
Nationwide Arena: Home of the NHL’s Columbus Blue Jackets, just a short walk away.
Huntington Park: Home of the Columbus Clippers, the city’s Triple-A baseball team.
North Market: A must-visit for diverse local food vendors.
Short North Arts District: A lively neighborhood filled with galleries, shops and nightlife.
Scioto Mile: A scenic riverfront park perfect for pregame walks.
Lower.com Field represents the future of soccer stadiums in the U.S.—modern, intimate and built for atmosphere. It blends cutting-edge design with Columbus’s deep soccer culture, creating a venue where every match feels electric. From the Nordecke’s nonstop support to the local food and beer offerings, the stadium captures the spirit of both the Crew and the city itself.
It’s not just a place to watch soccer—it’s a celebration of Columbus’s passion for the game.
Whether you’re joining the Nordecke, bringing your family to a Crew match or attending a national team showdown, Lower.com Field is one of MLS’s can’t-miss destinations. Use SeatGeek to secure tickets, explore seating options and plan the perfect trip to Columbus’s premier soccer venue.