Atmosphere
The first thing you need to know about tailgating before a Pats game is to get there early. Route 1 lines up with cars about an hour before the parking lots open because fans want to reserve spots in specific tailgate lots. If you aren’t there at opening then you can kiss your tailgate spot goodbye. Arriving early will also allow you to experience tailgating before the game to its max, so come early and enjoy all the sights and sounds tailgating at a Pats game has to offer.
Gillette’s suburban location in Foxboro, Massachusetts creates a tailgating haven where an ocean of tailgates fills the parking lots surrounding the stadium. All you can see on your way into the lots is miles and miles of tailgates giving you the sense that you’re somewhere special.
Since the Patriots are New England’s team, after the Red Sox, of course, you’ll be treated to plenty of delicious seafood based cuisine at the tailgates here. Clam chowder is without a doubt one of the most unique foods and you’ll find an abundance of in Foxborough. The chowder here is among the best you’ll ever find, so make sure to enjoy this creamy delicacy as no trip to New England is complete without it.
Traditions
Patriot Place
If you’re not into traditional tailgating, Patriot Place is perfect for you. The massive retail, dining, and entertainment complex located right outside of Gillette Stadium offers more than enough for fans to do on game days. No matter who you are or what your taste you’ll find something for you inside Patriots Place, which is home to upscale steakhouses, national fast food chains, and bars. The incredible variety makes Patriot Place great place to grab a quick drink or bite to eat before or after the game if you want to wait out the inevitable post-game traffic on Route 1. There is also a significant amount of shopping and entertainment available at Patriot Place including a movie theater, bowling alleys, and even night clubs. Patriot Place is your one stop shop for pre and post game activities in Foxborough.
Watch video
Chowder
Clam chowder is without a doubt one of the most unique foods and you’ll find an abundance of in Foxborough. The chowder here is among the best you’ll ever find, so make sure to enjoy this creamy delicacy as no trip to New England is complete without it.
Watch video
Where to tailgate
-
Lot 1: Lot A and BThese two lots are among the most popular with diehard Pats fans, who come to the games dressed head to toe in Navy and Red. In both lots, you’ll meet hundreds of excited tailgaters serving fabulous food and beverages. Make sure to get to these lots at least five hours before game time if you plan on setting up your tailgate spot, since of they fill up within 30 minutes of opening.
-
Patriot PlaceIf you’re not into traditional tailgating Patriot Place is perfect for you. The massive retail, dining, and entertainment complex located right outside of Gillette Stadium offers more than enough for fans to do on game days. No matter who you are or what your taste you’ll find something for you inside Patriots Place, which is home to upscale steakhouses, national fast food chains, and bars. The incredible variety makes Patriot Place great place to grab a quick drink or bite to eat before or after the game if you want to wait out the inevitable post-game traffic on Route 1. There is also a significant amount of shopping and entertainment available at Patriot Place including a movie theater, bowling alleys, and even night clubs. Patriot Place is your one stop shop for pre and post game activities in Foxborough.
