American Airlines Center
Dallas, United States
Capacity
72220
About this place
History
NRG Stadium opened in 2002 and was originally known as Reliant Stadium. It was built to provide the Houston Texans with a modern NFL venue and to replace the Astrodome, which stands nearby. The stadium quickly became a major national stage, hosting multiple Super Bowls, college football championships, international soccer matches, and large-scale concerts. In 2014, the venue was renamed NRG Stadium following a naming rights agreement.
Architecture
The stadium has a seating capacity of around 72,220 spectators, expandable for major events. Its defining feature is the retractable roof, making it the first NFL stadium ever built with this technology. The design allows events to take place in both open-air and climate-controlled conditions, ideal for Houston’s weather. Inside, the stadium includes luxury suites, premium club seating, large video boards, and modern hospitality areas designed for high-capacity events.
Location
NRG Stadium is located in Houston, Texas, within the NRG Park complex, just south of downtown. It sits next to the historic Astrodome and is well connected by highways, public transport, and park-and-ride systems on major event days. The surrounding complex also includes exhibition halls and arenas, making it one of the largest event hubs in the United States.
What is NRG?
The stadium is named after NRG Energy, an American energy company headquartered in Houston. The naming reflects the company’s local roots and its long-term partnership with the city’s main sports and entertainment venues.
Why the Stadium Matters
NRG Stadium is a flagship NFL venue known worldwide for hosting some of the biggest events in sports and entertainment. It has staged multiple Super Bowls, College Football Playoff National Championship games, Copa América matches, and global concert tours. Its retractable roof, massive capacity, and versatility make it one of the most recognizable stadiums in North America.
