Minnesota Vikings Tickets

Are you ready to don your purple and gold and join the thunderous roar of "Skol" chants that echo through the stands? The Minnesota Vikings, with their fierce Norseman spirit, are once again charging onto the field, and it's an experience you won't want to miss. Whether it's the electrifying rush of a breakaway touchdown at the U.S. Bank Stadium or the heart-pounding anticipation of a game-deciding field goal, every moment is a memory in the making.

As the chill of the North settles in and the battle for gridiron glory heats up, it's time to secure your seat where history is written one play at a time. Don't be left out in the cold! Grab your Minnesota Vikings tickets here and be part of the action where every game is more than just a game—it's a saga of Vikings conquest!

Origins and Formation

The Minnesota Vikings were born out of an ambition to establish a professional football team in Minnesota. On January 28, 1960, the NFL awarded its 14th franchise to a group led by businessmen Bill Boyer, H.P. Skoglund, and Max Winter. Minnesota’s strong sporting culture and community enthusiasm were pivotal in this decision. The franchise was named the "Vikings" to reflect Minnesota's significant Scandinavian American population, embracing the fierce and resilient spirit of the historical Norse explorers.

Early Years

The team debuted in the 1961 season under the guidance of Head Coach Norm Van Brocklin, a former NFL quarterback who brought experience and a competitive edge. The Vikings played their first-ever game on September 17, 1961, and made an immediate impact by defeating the Chicago Bears. Despite this initial success, the early years were challenging as the team worked to build a cohesive unit and a winning formula.

The Purple People Eaters Era

The late 1960s and 1970s marked the emergence of the Vikings as a formidable force in the NFL, largely thanks to their dominant defense nicknamed the "Purple People Eaters." This unit, which included Hall of Famers Alan Page and Carl Eller, was known for its tenacity and effective pass rush, leading the Vikings to four Super Bowl appearances in the 1970s. While the team failed to secure a Super Bowl victory, these years solidified their reputation as consistent contenders.

The Journey in the NFL

Throughout their history, the Minnesota Vikings have been characterized by periods of impressive performance and notable players. In the 1980s and 1990s, they remained competitive, with players like Anthony Carter and Cris Carter making headlines. The 1998 season was particularly memorable when the Vikings, led by Randall Cunningham and rookie sensation Randy Moss, showcased one of the most explosive offenses in NFL history, though their Super Bowl aspirations were cut short in the NFC Championship Game.

Stadium Transitions

The Vikings have called several stadiums home, starting with Metropolitan Stadium (1961-1981), then moving to the Hubert H. Humphrey Metrodome (1982-2013). In 2016, they moved to the state-of-the-art U.S. Bank Stadium in downtown Minneapolis, which has become renowned for its unique design and the deafening roar of Vikings fans.

Recent Years and Community Impact

In recent seasons, the Vikings have sought to build a team capable of going the distance. With notable talents like Dalvin Cook and Justin Jefferson, they strive to blend a powerful offense with strategic defense. The team’s influence extends beyond the field, with a strong community outreach program focusing on youth education, health, and wellness.

Cultural Significance

The Vikings' identity is deeply entwined with Minnesota's cultural fabric. From the iconic Gjallarhorn sounded before each game to the "Skol" chant inspired by Viking heritage, the team celebrates the state’s unique history and the indomitable spirit of its fans.

The Minnesota Vikings’ journey in the NFL has been one of passion, perseverance, and an enduring quest for greatness. As they continue to chase their first Super Bowl title, they carry with them the legacy of the past and the hopes of a loyal fan base, eager to see their Vikings conquer the gridiron and achieve ultimate victory.

The Greatest Players in Minnesota Vikings History

The Minnesota Vikings have had numerous talented and influential players throughout their history. Here are some of the greatest to ever don the purple and gold:

Fran Tarkenton

Fran Tarkenton, the Hall of Fame quarterback, was drafted by the Vikings in 1961. Known for his exceptional mobility and improvisational ability, Tarkenton spent 13 of his 18 NFL seasons with Minnesota, leading the team to three Super Bowl appearances. He retired with several NFL records, including most career touchdown passes, which stood for years.

Alan Page

Alan Page was a cornerstone of the "Purple People Eaters" defense and is considered one of the greatest defensive tackles in NFL history. Page was the first defensive player to receive the MVP award, in 1971, and his career included nine Pro Bowl appearances and six First-Team All-Pro honors. He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1988.

Carl Eller

Joining Page on the defensive line was Carl Eller, another member of the "Purple People Eaters." Eller played 15 seasons with the Vikings and was known for his ability to disrupt the offense and sack quarterbacks. His efforts helped the Vikings reach four Super Bowls, and he was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2004.

Randy Moss

Randy Moss revolutionized the wide receiver position with his combination of size, speed, and catching ability. Drafted in 1998, Moss had an immediate impact, setting the single-season rookie record for touchdown receptions. He was a six-time Pro Bowler during his time with the Vikings and is often mentioned among the greatest wide receivers in NFL history.

Cris Carter

Cris Carter's career with the Vikings was defined by spectacular catches and reliability. He joined the Vikings in 1990 and over the next 12 years established himself as one of the most precise route runners and sure-handed receivers in the league, amassing over 1,000 receptions and 130 touchdowns.

Adrian Peterson

Adrian Peterson, a powerhouse running back, was drafted by the Vikings in 2007. Peterson's blend of speed, power, and agility made him a formidable force, highlighted by his MVP season in 2012 when he rushed for 2,097 yards, just eight yards shy of breaking the single-season rushing record.

John Randle

Undrafted out of college, John Randle joined the Vikings in 1990 and became one of the most feared defensive tackles in the league. With a relentless motor and an impressive ability to sack quarterbacks, Randle recorded 137.5 career sacks and was a seven-time Pro Bowl selection.

These players are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the rich history of talent that has been part of the Minnesota Vikings' legacy. Their contributions on the field have left an indelible mark on the franchise and their stories continue to inspire new generations of Vikings players and fans alike.

The 7 Most Memorable Moments in Minnesota Vikings History

The Minnesota Vikings have a storied history filled with thrilling victories, heartbreaking losses, and unforgettable plays. Here are seven of the most memorable moments that have defined the Vikings' franchise:

The Birth of a Franchise (1961)

The establishment of the Minnesota Vikings as an NFL franchise in 1961 marked the beginning of a new era in Minnesota sports. Their inaugural game, in which they upset the Chicago Bears 37-13, announced their arrival with a bang and set the tone for a competitive future.

First Super Bowl Appearance (Super Bowl IV, 1970)

The Vikings made their first Super Bowl appearance at the end of the 1969 season, facing off against the Kansas City Chiefs in Super Bowl IV. Despite a disappointing loss, this achievement solidified the Vikings as a formidable NFL team and was the start of a decade of dominance.

The Miracle at the Met (December 28, 1975)

In a divisional playoff game against the San Francisco 49ers, the Vikings completed a Hail Mary pass known as "The Miracle at the Met." With no time left on the clock, quarterback Fran Tarkenton threw a 50-yard pass that was tipped by a defender and caught by wide receiver Ahmad Rashad to clinch a division title.

The Purple People Eaters Dominate

The era of the Purple People Eaters, spanning the late 1960s to the late 1970s, was highlighted by the Vikings' dominant defense. This period included four Super Bowl appearances (IV, VIII, IX, XI), even though they didn't capture the championship, these games remain etched in the memory of Vikings fans for the sheer grit and prowess the team displayed.

Adrian Peterson's Near-Record Season (2012)

Adrian Peterson's 2012 campaign was one for the ages. Returning from a severe knee injury, Peterson rushed for 2,097 yards, just eight yards shy of breaking Eric Dickerson's single-season rushing record. His remarkable performance earned him the NFL MVP award and is one of the most impressive individual seasons in NFL history.

The Minneapolis Miracle (January 14, 2018)

In the NFC Divisional Playoff game against the New Orleans Saints, the Vikings were trailing with 10 seconds left and no timeouts. Quarterback Case Keenum threw a 61-yard touchdown pass to Stefon Diggs, who made the catch, stayed in bounds, and ran it into the endzone as time expired. This moment, known as the "Minneapolis Miracle," is perhaps the most dramatic finish in Vikings history, sending them to the NFC Championship Game.

Brett Favre Leads to the NFC Championship (2009)

The 2009 season was a memorable one for the Vikings, largely due to the performance of veteran quarterback Brett Favre. At 40 years old, Favre had one of his best seasons, leading the Vikings to the NFC Championship game. Although they lost to the New Orleans Saints in a heart-wrenching overtime defeat, the season remains one of the most exciting in Vikings lore.

These moments are a testament to the passion and resilience that have become synonymous with the Minnesota Vikings and their fans. From last-second heroics to historic seasons, the Vikings have provided their supporters with a rollercoaster of emotions and a treasure trove of memories to last a lifetime.

The Major Rivalries

The Minnesota Vikings have several rivalries, some dating back to the team's inception. Rivalries in the NFL are built through a mix of geographical proximity, historical matchups, playoff confrontations, and frequently, shared divisions. Here’s a detailed look at some of the Vikings’ most significant rivalries:

Green Bay Packers

Arguably the most intense rivalry for the Vikings is with the Green Bay Packers. It’s a rivalry that's as much a cultural clash as it is a sporting contest, with the Packers' small-town community-owned team ethos contrasting with the metropolitan vibe of the Twin Cities.

They've been divisional rivals since the Vikings entered the league, creating a rivalry that has only intensified with time. Games between these two teams are always highly anticipated and often have significant implications for the NFC North standings.

Key moments that have fueled this rivalry include Brett Favre's switch from the Packers to the Vikings in 2009, which added an intense personal narrative to the matchups, and the 2015 game where the Vikings defeated the Packers at Lambeau Field to win the division title.

Chicago Bears

The Vikings-Bears rivalry is another product of divisional competition and geographical proximity, with both teams being stalwarts of the NFC North (formerly the NFC Central). The rivalry began in 1961 when the Vikings entered the league and has featured many memorable moments, including intense playoff battles and games that have decided the division title.

One of the most memorable games in this rivalry occurred in 1994 when rookie wide receiver Randy Moss stunned the Bears with two first-half touchdown receptions, announcing his arrival to the NFL in spectacular fashion.

Detroit Lions

The Vikings and Lions rivalry is the less intense of the NFC North matchups but still has a rich history due to the teams’ shared division. The rivalry is marked by streaks, with either team often dominating for years at a time. Though not as high-profile as the Packers or Bears rivalries, games against the Lions have produced remarkable moments, such as the last-second 54-yard field goal by Vikings kicker Paul Edinger in 2005, which effectively ended the Lions’ playoff hopes.

Dallas Cowboys

While not a divisional rival, the Vikings and Cowboys have developed a heated rivalry due to several high-stakes encounters over the years. The rivalry took off in the 1970s when the two teams met in the playoffs five times in ten years. Perhaps the most unforgettable and painful moment for Vikings fans in this rivalry was the infamous "Hail Mary" pass from Roger Staubach to Drew Pearson in the 1975 playoffs, leading to a Cowboys victory and a moment so contentious it helped shape the NFL's pass interference rules.

Atlanta Falcons

The rivalry with the Atlanta Falcons is largely based on one particularly crushing moment for the Vikings. The 1998 NFC Championship game featured the 15-1 Vikings, who were heavily favored and featured one of the most potent offenses in NFL history. The Vikings lost in overtime, and the game is widely regarded as one of the most significant missed opportunities in franchise history.

While not all of these rivalries have the same intensity year in and year out, they each have a special place in the history of the Minnesota Vikings. The Packers rivalry endures as the most heated, with games against the Bears and Lions always critical in the NFC North. These rivalries add to the rich tapestry of the Vikings' history, each bringing its own set of memorable games, players, and moments that have defined the franchise.

The US Bank Stadium – The Home of the Minnesota Vikings

U.S. Bank Stadium, with its bold design and cutting-edge features, represents a new era for the Minnesota Vikings and their passionate fan base. It's not just a venue for football; it's a multipurpose facility that has quickly become a landmark in Minneapolis.

History and Origins

The history of U.S. Bank Stadium is closely tied to its predecessor, the Hubert H. Humphrey Metrodome, which was the home of the Vikings from 1982 until its deflation in 2014. The Metrodome hosted numerous memorable events but was often criticized for its lack of modern amenities and outdated design.

After years of discussion about the need for a new stadium to keep the team in Minnesota, the state legislature approved the construction of a new venue in 2012. Groundbreaking took place on December 3, 2013, and the stadium was completed in July 2016. The project was a public-private partnership, with funding coming from the Vikings, the state of Minnesota, and the city of Minneapolis.

Design and Features

U.S. Bank Stadium was designed by HKS, Inc., the same architecture firm that designed AT&T Stadium and Lucas Oil Stadium. Its striking appearance includes a vast slanting roof and enormous pivoting glass doors that give it a distinct Nordic aesthetic, reflective of Minnesota's heritage.

The roof, which is the largest in North America, is made of a transparent material called ETFE. This allows natural light to flood the interior, giving the feel of an outdoor stadium while providing shelter from the elements. With a capacity of approximately 66,000 for football games, which can be expanded to 73,000 for other events, the stadium was designed to host a wide range of events, including concerts, conventions, and other sports.

Memorable Events

U.S. Bank Stadium has already witnessed a number of significant events in its relatively short history:

Opening Game: The Vikings played their first regular-season game at U.S. Bank Stadium on September 18, 2016, defeating the Green Bay Packers in a thrilling game that set the tone for the stadium's future.

Super Bowl LII: On February 4, 2018, the stadium hosted Super Bowl LII, where the Philadelphia Eagles defeated the New England Patriots in a game that will be long remembered for its high-scoring drama and the "Philly Special" play.

NCAA Final Four: In April 2019, U.S. Bank Stadium was transformed to host the NCAA Men's Basketball Final Four, which saw the University of Virginia claim its first national championship.

Concerts and Events: Aside from sports, the stadium has hosted major concerts by artists such as U2, Metallica, and Garth Brooks, showcasing its versatility as a top-tier entertainment venue.

X Games: U.S. Bank Stadium has also hosted the summer X Games multiple times, transforming into a hub for extreme sports.

Legacy and Impact

U.S. Bank Stadium's construction was part of a broader redevelopment of the eastern portion of downtown Minneapolis. It has contributed to the economic growth of the city, drawing visitors from across the nation for its events. The stadium has set new standards for sustainability as well; it achieved LEED Gold certification, underscoring the emphasis on environmentally responsible design and operation.

Moreover, U.S. Bank Stadium has redefined the game-day experience for Vikings fans, with its louder and more intense atmosphere contributing to a formidable home-field advantage. From its Skyway connections that allow fans to walk to the stadium in comfort despite the harsh Minnesota winters, to the expansive tailgating space in The Commons park outside, every element of the U.S. Bank Stadium experience has been carefully considered.

As the home of the Minnesota Vikings, U.S. Bank Stadium stands as a symbol of progress and pride for the team and the state of Minnesota. Its unique design and state-of-the-art facilities ensure that it will remain a center of sports, entertainment, and community pride for decades to come.

Parking at the US Bank Stadium

Parking at U.S. Bank Stadium is well-organized to cater to the tens of thousands of fans who converge on the area during game days and for other events. Understanding the parking situation can help ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience when attending an event at the stadium.

On-Site Parking:

U.S. Bank Stadium does not have its own parking facility, but there are several parking ramps and lots designated for event use in the immediate vicinity of the stadium:

Mills Fleet Farm Parking Ramp: This is the closest parking ramp to U.S. Bank Stadium and is connected via skyway. It’s a popular choice for its convenience, but spots fill up quickly, and it's typically one of the more expensive options.

Downtown East Ramp: Located just a block from the stadium, this ramp also offers a significant number of parking spaces and is connected to the stadium via skyway.

Off-Site Parking:

There are more than 20,000 parking spaces within a 20-minute walk of the stadium. Off-site parking includes numerous lots and ramps in downtown Minneapolis. Prices vary by distance from the stadium, and many offer pre-paid parking options that can be purchased ahead of time, which is highly recommended on game days or event days.

Tailgating Parking:

Tailgating is an integral part of the game-day experience for many football fans. The Vikings have designated specific lots for tailgating, which are equipped with amenities for fans to enjoy the pre-game festivities. These include the "Purple" and "Gold" tailgate lots. Tailgating spots are typically sold on a season basis and are in high demand.

Accessible Parking:

Accessible parking is available in all parking ramps and lots around U.S. Bank Stadium. Fans with disabilities are encouraged to use the Mills Fleet Farm Parking Ramp and the Downtown East Ramp, as they have direct skyway access to the stadium. Accessible parking is provided on a first-come, first-served basis, so arriving early is recommended.

Public Transportation and Rideshare:

For those who prefer not to drive, Minneapolis offers several public transportation options:

Metro Transit: The Metro Blue and Green Lines serve U.S. Bank Stadium Station, located just steps from the stadium. There are also numerous bus routes that stop near the stadium.

Rideshare: Major rideshare services have designated pickup and drop-off zones near the stadium to streamline the process.

Prepaid Parking:

To avoid the hassle of finding a parking spot on the day of an event, it’s often possible to purchase parking in advance through various apps or websites. This not only guarantees a pot but also can provide a discount compared to day-of-event rates.

Tips for Parking at U.S. Bank Stadium:

Arrive Early: Especially on game days, arriving several hours early can help you avoid traffic and secure the best parking spots.

Consider Tailgating Lots: If you plan to tailgate, ensure you have a pass for one of the designated lots.

Use Prepaid Parking Services: Pre-booking your parking spot can save time and stress.

Check for Events: Be aware of other events in downtown Minneapolis on the day of your visit, as this can affect parking availability and traffic.

Skyway System: Utilize Minneapolis’s extensive skyway system to stay out of the weather and enjoy a comfortable walk to the stadium.

Parking is always one of the crucial logistical elements to plan for when attending an event at a large venue like U.S. Bank Stadium. With the range of options available, fans can choose what works best for their needs and budget.