Gem in the Desert – University of Phoenix Stadium
By Gerald Smith
Sun, Jul 26th, 09 at 11:31 pm
Somewhere in the midst of the Glendale, AZ landscape lies a beautiful stadium which the Arizona Cardinals call home. Recently, I had the opportunity to visit University of Phoenix Stadium in Glendale, AZ and I must say that this stadium is as nice as they get.
First, the structure was literally placed in the middle of nowhere with the hopes of drawing many businesses, hotels, and restaurants to the area. Well, it seems to have worked as the area is sprawling with many top notch shopping centers, restaurants, and many top choices for lodging – many of which are within walking distance to both University of Phoenix Stadium and the Jobing.com Arena (home of the Phoenix Coyotes).
Secondly, the stadium boasts many features and amenities not seen in many other venues. For example, while waiting in line for tickets, stadium goers will notice the slight cooling mist being blown on them from above (cleverly designed system) which is a must for this desert location. In addition, every single seat in the stadium has the Cardinals logo “embossed” – just a subtle touch, but it demonstrates its details. Then, you have the field which is designed to roll in and out of the stadium. Another inventive implimentation which allows the grounds crew to maintain the field in the outdoors, rather than building an indoor system suitable for the location.
Also, while doing some research on the stadium, I learned that the stadium was built to be shaped like a barrel cactus (no kidding) and the retractable roof was designed to maximize sunlight on the field while in the stadium, but to also minimize the seating sunlight at the same time. Lastly, prior to departing from my visit, I stumbled upon a tribute to the late Pat Tillman – which was a very respectful way to honor this man. If you’re in the area, I recommend a visit to this gem in the desert.
