Oct 25, 2025
·Mary Callahan
Snapdragon Stadium is one of San Diego’s newest and most exciting sports and entertainment venues. Opened in 2022, this open-air stadium was built on the site of the former SDCCU Stadium in Mission Valley. Designed with the city’s sunny climate and outdoor lifestyle in mind, it serves as the home of San Diego State University Aztecs football, as well as the San Diego Wave FC (NWSL) and San Diego Legion (MLR). The stadium has also become a go-to spot for concerts, festivals and international soccer matches, making it a versatile hub for the city’s thriving sports and entertainment scene.
With a modern design, fan-friendly amenities and a seating capacity of 35,000, Snapdragon Stadium offers an intimate yet energetic atmosphere for every event.
About Snapdragon Stadium
Address: 2101 Stadium Way, San Diego, CA 92108
Snapdragon Stadium was built as part of a redevelopment of the Mission Valley area, with an emphasis on sustainability, comfort, and community use. Its design reflects San Diego’s coastal vibe, with shaded seating areas, wide concourses and local food and beverage offerings.
The stadium is also notable for its multi-use setup—equally well-suited for football, soccer, rugby, and large-scale concerts.
A Look Back at Snapdragon Stadium’s History
After nearly six decades, San Diego said goodbye to the old SDCCU Stadium (formerly Jack Murphy/Qualcomm Stadium), which had hosted the NFL’s Chargers, Super Bowls and countless iconic events. In its place, Snapdragon Stadium opened in 2022 as part of a $3.5 billion redevelopment project known as SDSU Mission Valley.
The new stadium brought college football back to the city in style while also welcoming the San Diego Wave FC, a National Women’s Soccer League team that set attendance records in its debut season at the venue. The stadium has since hosted major concerts (like Red Hot Chili Peppers and Jimmy Buffett), rugby championships and international soccer matches, quickly establishing itself as a centerpiece of San Diego’s sports and cultural identity.
How to Get to Snapdragon Stadium
Driving: The stadium is right off I-8 in Mission Valley, making it easy to reach from anywhere in the San Diego area.
Parking: Multiple lots surround the stadium, with prepaid parking passes recommended for convenience.
Public Transit: Snapdragon Stadium is directly served by the San Diego Trolley’s Green Line, with a dedicated stop right at the venue—one of the easiest ways to avoid traffic and parking.
Rideshare: Uber and Lyft pick-up/drop-off zones are designated near the stadium for smooth access.
Biking & Walking: The Mission Valley area features bike paths and pedestrian-friendly connections, making biking a viable option for local fans.
Plan Your Visit to Snapdragon Stadium
Opening Times: Stadium gates typically open 90 minutes before kickoff or showtime.
Event Duration: Football games last about 3 hours; soccer and rugby matches run about 2 hours; concerts vary.
Ticketing: Snapdragon Stadium uses mobile ticketing only for faster, contactless entry.
Food & Beverages: The stadium puts a spotlight on San Diego’s vibrant food scene with local dining partners and craft beer selections, including:
The Taco Stand – fresh, authentic tacos.
Cucina Stella – Italian-inspired dishes with California flair.
Best Pizza & Brew – artisan pizzas and bar favorites.
Dozens of local craft breweries represented throughout the concourses.
Family-Friendly Options: Kid-friendly concession items and family-focused events are a big part of the experience.
Stadium Policies
Bag Policy: Only clear bags up to 12” x 6” x 12” are allowed. Small clutches (no larger than 4.5” x 6.5”) are permitted.
Cashless Venue: All transactions are cashless—cards and mobile payments only.
Security: All guests pass through metal detectors at entry.
Re-Entry: Re-entry is not permitted.
Inside Snapdragon Stadium
Snapdragon Stadium offers modern amenities, excellent sightlines and plenty of shaded areas to keep fans comfortable in San Diego’s sunshine. The open-air design gives it a community feel, with gathering spaces that encourage socializing as much as spectating.
Fans enjoy 360-degree concourses, premium seating options like club lounges and suites and a state-of-the-art videoboard that ensures no one misses the action. The venue also includes flexible spaces for year-round community events, from farmers markets to outdoor movie nights.
Make the Most of Your Visit
Best Value Seats: Sideline seats in the upper levels offer great views of the field at more affordable prices.
Premium Experience: Club seats and luxury suites provide top-notch dining, lounge areas and private entrances.
Concert Hot Spot: The open bowl creates excellent acoustics for concerts, with floor seats and lower-bowl sections offering the best views.
Before & After the Event: Mission Valley features plenty of nearby restaurants, bars and shopping, or you can head downtown for nightlife and waterfront views.
Legacy at Snapdragon Stadium
In just a few years, Snapdragon Stadium has become more than just a sports venue—it’s a symbol of San Diego’s growth and community spirit. From Aztecs football games and record-setting NWSL matches to world-class concerts and international tournaments, the stadium has cemented itself as a centerpiece of entertainment in America’s Finest City.
Plan Your Visit with SeatGeek
Whether you’re catching a football game, a Wave FC showdown, or a big-name concert, Snapdragon Stadium delivers a modern, comfortable and unforgettable experience. Use SeatGeek to browse tickets, compare prices and make the most of your next visit to this San Diego landmark.