Finding parking for a major concert event like a Taylor Swift show at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara can be a challenge. With over 68,500 fans expected to attend, parking spots will be in high demand. Planning ahead and knowing where to look for parking is key to finding a spot close to the stadium. This guide will provide tips on the best places to park for a Taylor Swift concert at Levi’s Stadium.
Book Early
The first tip for finding parking for a major concert like Taylor Swift is to book your parking spot early. Many of the main parking lots and garages near the stadium sell out quickly when big events are happening. Booking your parking spot as soon as you have your concert tickets in hand is recommended. That way you ensure you have a guaranteed place to park nearby. Some lots even allow you to reserve parking in advance online or over the phone.
Arrive Early
While having an advance parking reservation is ideal, if that is not possible be prepared to arrive to the stadium area early. Give yourself plenty of extra time to find a suitable parking spot before the crowds descend on the area. Aim to arrive at least 1-2 hours before show time to circle the area and snag an open spot. The earlier you arrive, the better your chances at finding convenient parking close by.
Consider Paid Parking Lots
There are many paid parking lots and garages within walking distance of Levi’s Stadium. While sometimes pricier than other options, paid parking often guarantees you an open spot very close by. Some of the paid parking options include:
- Levi’s Stadium Blue Lot – $60
- Levi’s Stadium Gold Lot – $60
- Levi’s Stadium Red Lot – $60
- Shoreline Amphitheatre Main Lot – $60
- Official parking partner ParkJockey lots – $60-$100
Prices can fluctuate based on demand, so be prepared for potential surcharges for a major concert event like Taylor Swift.
Consider Offsite Parking Lots
If paying premium prices to park right next to the stadium does not fit your budget, another option is looking at offsite parking lots a bit farther from the stadium. The walk may be longer, but the prices are generally cheaper at these satellite lots. Some options include:
- Stanford Stadium lots – Approx 1 mile walk – $40
- San Tomas Aquino Creek Trail lots – Approx 1.5 mile walk – $30
- Great America Parking Garage – Approx 2 mile walk – $30
Just be aware the farther you park from the stadium, the longer it will take you to walk there and back to your vehicle after the show. Leave enough time for the extended walk if using an offsite lot.
Use Public Transportation
Another parking alternative is using public transportation to get to the Taylor Swift concert. Levi’s Stadium is serviced by both light rail and Caltrain. Parking your car at one of the outlying stations and taking transit to the stadium allows you to avoid parking altogether. Some public transit options include:
- Mountain View Caltrain – Free parking – 30 min train ride
- Santa Clara Caltrain – Free parking – 15 min train ride
- Downtown San Jose Diridon Station – Paid parking – 10 min train ride
- Downtown Mountain View Light Rail – Free parking – 45 min light rail ride
Check metro schedules in advance to ensure you arrive in time before the concert starts.
Use Ride Share
Another way to skip parking altogether is to use a ride share service like Uber or Lyft. You can get dropped off right at the main entrance without having to park. Just be aware surge pricing may be in effect after the concert ends, so expect to pay more for your return ride home.Splitting the cost with a group of friends can help defray the price surge.
Park in Nearby Neighborhoods
If you don’t mind walking a bit, consider parking in one of the residential neighborhoods adjacent to the stadium. This option does require arriving very early to secure a spot on the street, and paying close attention to parking signs and permit restrictions. Leave enough time to find a spot and make the 15-30 minute walk to the stadium entrance.
Where to Park at Levi’s Stadium
Now that we’ve covered some parking strategies, here are some of the best specific parking areas to target:
Orange Lot
Located off Tasman Drive close to the stadium, the Orange Lot has 1,430 parking spaces. It is a preferred parking lot, so spaces go quickly. Arrive early to secure a spot. The walk to stadium gates is about 10-15 minutes from here.
Green Lot
Another large preferred lot with 1,750 parking spaces near the stadium off Tasman Drive. One of the best places to park for Levi’s events if you can secure a spot early enough. Approximately 10 minute walk to the gates.
Red Lot
The Red Lot has 1,348 parking spots and is adjacent to the stadium by Gate A. One of the most premium places to park with the shortest walk to the entrance. Spots here go extremely quickly.
Yellow Lot
Situated off Tasman Drive near the Green Lot, Yellow has 1,246 parking spaces. Within a 10-15 minute walk to stadium entrances. Arrive early to get a spot.
Blue Lot
Another lot near Tasman Drive by the Yellow Lot. Blue has 1,056 parking spaces and is a 10-15 minute walk to the stadium entrance gates.
Gold 1 Lot
A premium parking lot with 1,073 spots right by the stadium off Centennial Boulevard. Often used for ADA parking and drop-offs. Short 5 minute walk to stadium entrance.
General Parking Tips
- Come early – At least 2 hours before event start time
- Book in advance – Reserve a guaranteed spot ahead of time if possible
- Consider offsite lots – Cheaper parking farther away from the stadium
- Use public transit – Light rail and Caltrain can help you avoid parking altogether
- Check parking signs – Pay attention to permit parking areas and restrictions
- Travel light – Don’t bring prohibited items so you can walk easily from distant lots
Conclusion
Finding parking for a high-demand event like a Taylor Swift concert at Levi’s Stadium requires planning ahead. Booking your parking early, arriving early, being flexible on parking distance and cost, and considering alternatives like public transit or ride shares can help you secure a spot. Target the main stadium lots like Green, Red, or Yellow for closest parking if you arrive very early. Offsite lots, neighborhood parking, and public transit can also work but may require more walking. With some savvy planning, you can find parking for a major concert like Taylor Swift at Levi’s Stadium.