The Ultimate Guide to Tailgating Before a Cincinnati Bengals Game at Paycor Stadium 🐯

Tailgating before a football game is more than just a pregame activity—it’s tradition, and in Cincinnati that's no different. On Bengals game days, fans dressed in orange and black stripes gather hours before kickoff to fire up grills, blast music, and celebrate Who Dey Nation. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a longtime season ticket holder, this guide covers everything you need to know about tailgating before a Bengals game—including the best parking lots, where to buy passes, Bengals-inspired recipes, a tailgate checklist, and nearby sports bars to keep the party going after the game. Who Dey!

Where to Park for Bengals Tailgating

Finding the right parking spot is key to a successful tailgate, and should be your first step when planning ahead. The best lots for Bengals fans near Paycor Stadium include:

• Lot 1 (right next to the stadium): The heart of Bengals tailgating. Expect a lively, high-energy atmosphere.
• Lot A & Lot E (east side of the stadium): Great for larger groups with room for tents, grills, and tailgate games. Bonus: they’re right by the river with solid views of the Northern Kentucky skyline.
• Central Riverfront Garage: Convenient for fans who want easy stadium access while still enjoying the tailgate scene.

(Photo: The Cincinnati Bengals official website)

How to Purchase Passes

Parking passes for official Paycor Stadium lots must be purchased in advance through the Cincinnati Bengals’ official website or parking apps like ParkWhiz and SpotHero. These sell out fast, so plan early! Be sure to read specifics on what is/isn't allowed in each lot, as well as hours of operation.

Note: Surface lots 1, 1U, A, B, D, E, Hilltop, Hilltop North and Broadway Lot will all open four (4) hours prior to kickoff.

All Bengals parking will close two (2) hours after the conclusion of the event – for evening events, tailgating activities must conclude no later than midnight. Fans and their vehicles must exit the parking area at closing time.

Don't want to plan your own tailgate? Join someone else's! Purchase tickets to Bengal Jim's "Before the Roar" Tailgate Experience (and follow his Facebook page) for a huge party - all proceeds go to charity. 

Bengals Tailgate Food and Drink Ideas

Every great tailgate starts with food (and drinks!). Here are some fan-favorite Cincinnati recipes that bring the flavor of the Queen City to your gameday spread:

• Cincinnati Chili Dip: Layer cream cheese, Skyline chili, and shredded cheddar; bake until soft. Top with hot sauce. Serve with tortilla chips. You won't have leftovers. This recipe is almost too easy to mess up.
• Goetta Sliders: A Cincinnati classic—goetta sausage patties (try hometown favorite brand, Glier's) on mini buns with melted cheese. Add scrambled eggs for a breakfast slider - perfect for when you're tailgating early before a 1 PM game.
• Orange Crush Cocktails: Mix orange soda, vodka, and triple sec for a refreshing, Bengals-themed drink. Rim your glass with orange sugar or sprinkles. 
• Who Dey Shots: Vanilla pudding, Rumchata, orange liqueur, cool whip AND sprinkles? Check out a recipe here.

Essential Tailgating Checklist

Not sure what to bring? Before you head to the stadium, make sure you’ve packed these tailgate must-haves:

• Grill or portable smoker
• Cooler with ice, drinks, and food; tupperware or some form of container to put leftover food in. 
• Hand sanitizer
• Folding chairs, tables, and a canopy for shade; canopies with walls and portable space heaters are encouraged for winter games, since Cincy gets cold! 
• Cornhole or other tailgate games
• Plastic plates, napkins, cups, and utensils
• Bluetooth speaker for music/portable chargers to keep everything juiced up. Didn't bring music? Your neighbors probably did. 
• Trash bags, paper towels and wet wipes for cleanup - be a good neighbor! Also, toilet paper is recommended in case the nearby public bathroom facilities run out.
• Bengals gear (jerseys, face paint, flags, etc.) Check the Bengals social media beforehand for theming. Sometimes you'll be "assigned" a color depending on your ticket/section so we can "stripe the jungle". It looks cool, so make sure you know what to wear to participate. 
• Extra layers or plastic ponchos—Cincinnati weather is unpredictable! Welcome to the Midwest. 

Sports Bars Near Paycor Stadium to Visit After the Game

When the final whistle blows, the party continues at sports bars near Paycor Stadium. Here are a few within walking distance:

• The Holy Grail Tavern & Grille (The Banks): A Bengals fan favorite with wall-to-wall TVs and stadium energy.
• Moerlein Lager House: A local brewery with craft beer, hearty (German!) food, and views of the Ohio River.
• Tin Roof: Known for live music and a fun, party atmosphere.
• Yard House: Perfect for fans who want an extensive beer list and elevated sports bar eats.