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INDIANAPOLIS –Opened in 2008, Lucas Oil Stadium has proven to be one of the best entertainment venues in existence.
For the second straight year, Stadium Journey has named Lucas Oil Stadium as the best overall experience in all of sports.
"We are thrilled with the rating from Stadium Journey," said Colts Owner and CEO Jim Irsay. "We are pleased Lucas Oil Stadium has been recognized for the value it provides to fans attending Colts games. We have a great desire to have the finest venue in the National Football League, and we remain energized in making our game day experience even better in the future."
The trade publication rated 1,225 stadiums around the world and kept the local venue at the top of the list. Areas the publication considers a "must" in its rankings are game day atmosphere, food and drink selection, for the venue to be placed in an interesting and vibrant neighborhood, to provide a good return on the financial investment and to be filled with great fans.
Lucas Oil Stadium earned bold checkmarks on all the categories.
Every NFL game in the stadium's history has been sold out. The Colts have earned a 30-12 home record in regular-season play in Lucas Oil Stadium, adding wins in both playoff games in 2010. Indianapolis was 7-1 at home in 2012, a record matched by four other teams and exceeded only by Seattle.
The Colts entertained fans with dramatic comeback wins over Minnesota, Green Bay, Miami and Tennessee, then beat division rival Houston, 28-16, in the finale. Among the great individual performances this past season was Andrew Luck setting the NFL rookie passing record of 433 yards against Miami.
Also, Head Coach Chuck Pagano appeared to the crowd during his successful fight with leukemia, and a memorable moment was two of the club's cheerleaders shaving their heads to support Pagano and to serve as another example of the "CHUCKSTRONG" movement in the stadium over the last six home games.
Stadium Journey cited Colts fans for their hospitality toward visitors. The 63,000-plus game attendees are treated by a fan-friendly stadium staff. Technological improvements inside and outside the venue greet visitors. Those hoping to visit the stadium for the first time may visit www.Colts.com in advance for seating options to help make the best informed decisions.
The Colts' Mobile App entertains fans with replays, scores from other games, access to player information, and it even identifies entertainment options upon leaving games.
Seating comfort also was identified as strengths of the stadium, and the two 97x53-foot HD video screens are among the best in use.
As always, convenience to downtown is outstanding. Visitors have a short walk from hotels and establishments if they are not parking in the substantial provided spaces.
In addition to Colts regular season games, Lucas Oil Stadium has hosted Super Bowl XLVI, the 2010 AFC Championship, two Big Ten Championship games, a Final Four and numerous concerts and high school championship games.
