The Valley of the Sun is gearing up to serve up some serious desert deluxe as the Arizona Cardinals announce plans to add luxury 'casitas' and a suite of premium seating options to State Farm Stadium, proposing an opulent football-watching experience that's nearly as thrilling as the game itself. As reported by ABC 15, the Cardinals are rolling out the gridiron carpet to offer fans field-level casitas, complete with two stories, a private entrance, and valet parking, all to be ready for the 2024 season.
Tacking on at least $10,000 for a deposit, these luxe digs aren't for your average tailgater. According to a Sports Business Journal interview, Chief Operating Officer Jeremy Walls boasted about the unique aspect of the casitas, "where else can you have your own front porch and rooftop for the NFL stadium? The high-end nature of it is important for us." Juxtapositioned with the field, these casitas are set to replace roughly 1,200 general-purpose seats—a bold move emphasizing exclusivity and luxury in the football fandom realm.
If you're looking for more than just a fancy shack at a sports event, the Cardinals offer up the Casita Garden Club—an expansive 13,000 square-foot outdoor garden patio. These experiences, as described by ABC 15, would have fans enjoying a host of behind-the-scenes looks at the players with the indulgence of high-end menu offerings and handcrafted libations.
But if the 1920s private supper club scene is more your style, then the Morgan Athletic Club might be your ticket. Featuring live music, private dining room access, and all-inclusive food and drink, this lounge is made for those looking to relive the bygone era right at the field's edge. With seats ranging from $1,000 to $17,500 per game, this throwback lounge, as Sports Business Journal notes, offers 12-guest field suites and tunnel suites, providing guests a peek into the visiting club's tunnel—all in a decidedly more luxe package than just a seat and stadium nachos.
Remaining financially friendly for the everyman hasn't been forgotten, however. The Cardinals still hold a reputation for providing one of the most affordable NFL experiences and are expected to maintain that benchmark. Despite the steep price tags for these ritzy additions, the average Joe can still enjoy the game without breaking the bank.
Amidst competition with flashy newcomers like SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles and Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas, this high stakes, high comfort approach could keep State Farm Stadium in the game as it tries to vie for major events. Brandon Doll, principal of Sports & Entertainment Advisors, emphasized the stadium's struggle to stay relevant, stating in a Sports Business Journal interview, "If you want to stay relevant and in the rotation, you need to keep up with the Joneses, literally and figuratively."
