Of course, it also helped pave the way for the Wilf’s to build what longtime Star Tribune columnist Patrick Reusse so wonderfully dubbed the Taj Ma Zygi.

U.S. Bank Stadium is among the best venues across the entire NFL, and it’s ship-like structure is a landmark for Minneapolis’ downtown skyline. It’s also got a special place in Vikings superfan Camden Tatsapaugh’s heart.

What’s next for Minnesota Vikings LEGO stadium?

The Hartford, Connecticut native Tatsapaugh is a Vikings superfan. Like many of us, that curse was handed down by his father. He turned the passion into a 2-and-a-half year LEGO project and is now looking to put it in a forever home.

How long did it take to build my LEGO U.S. Bank Stadium? ⏳️

The goal is to get this project displayed publicly in the Twin Cities! #LetsGetThisToMN #SKOL pic.twitter.com/ucQeN3Yoae

— Brickletics (@brickletics) August 18, 2025

Tatsapaugh told Fox 9 earlier this month, “It’s a pretty amazing feeling to be finished with it. It’s pretty surreal that it’s finally done.” In total, the tale of the tape was 15,000 LEGO pieces and 2 1/2 years of work. The model is 3 1/2 feet long, three feet wide, and 14 inches tall. The estimated weight checks in at over 80 pounds, Using an average of 9.5 cents per piece, the estimated cost of the stadium is roughly $1,425.

The roof is not present, as it wouldn’t have been possible to be supported. Many other key features such as the Gjallarhorn, glass doors, and United States flag, are included however. The goal for Tatsapaugh is to have his LEGO version of U.S. Bank Stadium dispayed somewhere in Minnesota.

“Never set out to be a Lego artist, but here we are. And now I just want to see if I can have a positive impact on the community by bringing this piece of art for people to enjoy.”

Camden Tatsapaugh – Fox 9

If the Wilf family hasn’t checked in yet, they certainly should get in touch. Tatsapaugh can be reached on X (formerly Twitter) at the handle @brickletics. It would be pretty neat for the model to be displayed somewhere within the actual U.S. Bank Stadium.

There are over 1,300 miles between the two destinations right now. Maybe the Vikings want to invite him for a game, cover the travel of the build, and make a whole experience of it.

Minnesota kicks off their 2025 regular season On Monday September 8 against the Chicago Bears at Soldier Field.

But McCarthy tore his meniscus in the Vikings first preseason game against the Las Vegas Raiders, and that ended any chance he had at taking over as Minnesota’s starter, in 2024. Since his surgery, we’ve seen JJ emerge just one time, for a meeting with reporters.

Inside TCO Performance Center in Eagan, McCarthy has been a regular in meeting rooms and QB get-togethers. But for the rest of us, we have seen very little of the Vikings rookie quarterback. Unless you follow him on social media, of course. Other than his Twitter and Instagram accounts, the 21-year-old has been nowhere to be seen.

JJ McCarthy is in the building for Minnesota Vikings vs Detroit Lions

Until Sunday, when JJ McCarthy was first spotted by media members while walking around U.S. Bank Stadium before the game, something that had not happened prior to today. He was walking around, throwing the football and stood on the sideline with his teammates during the game.

J.J. McCarthy is in the building today at U.S. Bank Stadium, standing on the field, watching his guys. First time for everything.

— Alec Lewis (@alec_lewis) October 20, 2024

J.J. McCarthy playing a little sideline catch at U.S. Bank Stadium. pic.twitter.com/lJ3VNzdhsW

— Ben Goessling (@BenGoessling) October 20, 2024

No, McCarthy is not going to suit up for the Minnesota Vikings this season. But that’s ok, the offense is in very capable hands, under Sam Darnold and his head coach, Kevin O’Connell. Nonetheless, it’s really good to see the top draft pick from April is back on his feet and well on his way back to a full recovery.

Related: Former Minnesota Vikings EDGE Welcomes Revenge Factor NFC North Trade Rumors

We’ll leave the QB controversy questions for another article, because those questions are coming. In fact, they’ve already started. And with how well Sam Darnold is playing, it’s fodder worth exploring. But for now, let’s enjoy this first half performance vs Detroit and hope the Vikings can hold on through the 2nd half.

Jason, Travis Kelce love playing @ Minnesota Vikings

Meanwhile, Jason, a member of the Eagles, also holds a Super Bowl title earned at U.S. Bank Stadium. It turns out, they both loved their time playing at U.S. Bank Stadium, even if they didn’t always win. Here’s the Kelce brothers speaking highly about the Minnesota Vikings stadium in their most recent podcast episode.

Jason and Travis Kelce had some high praise for the Vikings and their fans!

“That’s a fun place to play, the stadium is beautiful, and their crowd gets f*cking into it” pic.twitter.com/SsQpDbAVTH

— Leighton Glodek (@LGlodek) February 14, 2024

Jason: “I mean, Vikings are pretty electric, I’ll give them that. And the purple, the purple is nice.”

Travis: “You play in Minnesota, that is a fun place to play in man, it’s a beautiful stadium there. Crowd gets fucking into it, they’re not pricks, they’re not assholes, they just fucking love some good football baby, you gotta respect it.”

Kelce brothers on playing in U.S. Bank Stadium

Related: What is Kevin O’Connell Looking for When Evaluating Vikings Next Franchise QB?

Travis Kelce’s most recent appearance at U.S. Bank Stadium came in Week 5 during this past season on their journey to the Super Bowl. The Chiefs emerged victorious against the Vikings with a score of 27-20, with Kelce catching a touchdown from Patrick Mahomes in the QB’s debut at U.S. Bank.

#Chiefs Travis Kelce comes back in the game and gets the touchdown
Vikings / Niners / Broncos / Cowboys / Chiefs pic.twitter.com/jjHBpy3CkH

— Finelybrewed (@FinelyBrewed) October 9, 2023

Jason Kelce has graced U.S. Bank Stadium with his presence on two separate occasions, notably during his unforgettable Super Bowl showdown against the Patriots in the 2017-18 season.

Two seasons later, he returned but lost to the Vikings in a 38-20 bout. Stefon Diggs was a problem for the Eagles, recording 185 yards from scrimmage with three touchdowns in one of the best games of his Vikings career.

In Week 6 of the 2019 Season, Stefon Diggs had an INSANE performance in the Vikings game vs The Eagles.

-185 Yards From Scrimmage
-3 Touchdowns
-Vikings Blowout Win https://t.co/orzuKshVue pic.twitter.com/Tb52Niyppv

— 𝙆𝙖𝙨𝙚 (𝙋𝙂) (@verysadvikings) April 21, 2023

It’s cool to see U.S. Bank Stadium get the recognition it deserves, not only by many fans but even by players not on the Vikings. It’s a special place.

U.S. Bank Stadium Turf Upgrade

The Minnesota Sports Facilities Authority (MSFA) recently greenlit a project to replace the existing synthetic turf at U.S. Bank Stadium. The decision stems from concerns over injury data linked to the current slit-film turf.

According to reports compiled by the NFL and NFL Players Association, this turf type has been associated with a higher incidence of lower extremity non-contact injuries. In addition to the concerning research, the Vikings suffered a non contact injury this season to star wide receiver Justin Jefferson.

#JustinJefferson season ruined by his own club's 2019 purchase of Series S5-M synthetic turf, aka FieldTurf™ at U.S. Bank Stadium. So the #Vikings paid him to get hurt on a surface they paid for. #SKOL pic.twitter.com/bTWtn2Z5Bb

— JNorthChile (@Maynard29Jim) October 11, 2023

The forthcoming upgrade, estimated at $1.3 million, will introduce a monofilament version named Act Global Xtreme Turf DX. This shift to advanced turf technology aligns with a prime focus on player health and safety, as emphasized by Vikings’ executive vice president, Steve Poppen.

The move signifies a strategic commitment to provide a safer playing field for athletes, ensuring an environment conducive to optimal performance and reduced injury risks.

U.S. Bank Stadium Security Perimeter Enhancement

Simultaneously, U.S. Bank Stadium is undergoing a significant security revamp, with the second phase of the enhanced security perimeter expected to cost a staggering $62 million.

This substantial investment, the MSFA says, will allow U.S. Bank Stadium to meet the new U.S. Department of Homeland Security anti-terrorism standards, emphasizing the paramount importance of safeguarding attendees while maintaining accessibility and mobility within the venue.

The fortified perimeter project, overseen by the MSFA, will encompass critical elements such as the western entrance, light-rail station, Medtronic plaza, and skyway connection. The objective, according to Populous architect Tyler Robertson is not merely to fortify security of U.S. Bank Stadium, but also to “craft an inviting outdoor public space that serves as the stadium’s new front door”.

The enhancements are supposed to offer seamless, safe access into events that draw massive crowds (Taylor Swift concerts, Vikings games, etc). Improve safety and enhance the fan experience so people are more likely to return in the future.

U.S. Bank Stadium Financial Backing and Maintenance

The grand scale of these projects necessitates significant financial backing. Chairman Michael Vekich acknowledged the funding gap, stating that the MSFA will seek legislative support to bridge the financial shortfall.

How much will they ask from tax-payers, you ask? All $62 million of it. The MSFA is requesting that the state pay for the entire $62 million outdoor security and fan experience enhancements. The new field turf is being paid for with money out of a regular maintenance fund that both the Vikings and state of Minnesota contribute to.

Chairman Michael Vekich said the MSFA doesn’t have the money to fund phase two of the perimeter, which was initially estimated at $48 million, so it will ask the Legislature and Gov. Tim Walz for the $62 million.

Rochelle Olson – Star Tribune

Outlook for U.S. Bank Stadium

With the turf replacement set to commence in early 2024 and the security perimeter enhancements scheduled for late 2024, these initiatives underline the commitment to evolve and ensure the sustained excellence of U.S. Bank Stadium. The holistic approach to safety, accessibility, and fan experience positions the stadium as a benchmark for modern sports facilities nationwide.

Our time.

Our year.

And it all starts at the best stadium in the NFL. #Skol pic.twitter.com/R9XAJ7x8z0

— Minnesota Vikings (@Vikings) September 7, 2019

Dominique Clare | Minnesota Sports Fan

Where is U.S. Bank Stadium located? 

U.S. Bank Stadium is in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The address of U.S. Bank Stadium is 401 Chicago Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55415.

Related: Minnesota Vikings game today: TV schedule, channel, and more

Who plays at U.S. Bank Stadium?

The Minnesota Vikings play at U.S. Bank Stadium. 

What is the capacity of U.S. Bank Stadium?

The capacity at U.S. Bank Stadium is 73,000, which is the number of seats at the arena. 

What time do the gates open at U.S. Bank Stadium?

U.S. Bank Stadium gates open two hours before kickoff. 

How much is the parking at U.S. Bank Stadium?

U.S. Bank Stadium does not directly manage any public parking areas, although the Stadium Parking Ramp is connected via skyway to U.S. Bank Stadium to keep you insulated from the elements while you commute to the game.

Can you tailgate at U.S. Bank Stadium?

Yes, you can tailgate at U.S. Bank Stadium. Tailgating for all weekend games opens five hours before kickoff. Tailgating for all weekday games is open three hours before kickoff. We suggest arriving early because parking for tailgating is limited. 

Can you watch the Minnesota Vikings warm-up at U.S. Bank Stadium?

Yes. Before the game, fans are allowed to watch the Vikings warm-up at U.S. Bank Stadium.

Related: Top-selling NFL jerseys: Shop Minnesota Vikings jerseys

What can you bring to U.S. Bank Stadium?

Bags that are clear plastic, vinyl, or PVC and are not any larger than 12″ x 12″ x 6″ can be brought into the stadium. 

Can you bring food and water to U.S. Bank Stadium?

Food and water are not allowed in U.S. Bank Stadium. 

Is U.S. Bank Stadium cashless? 

U.S. Bank Stadium is cashless and accepts all major credit cards as payment. You must use credit or debit cards to pay for food, beverages, and merchandise. 

How much is a suite at U.S. Bank Stadium?

Suites at U.S. Bank Stadium cost between $10,000-$35,000 depending on the event and game. Guests will also receive VIP parking passes. Inside the luxury suite is a private restroom, upscale furnishing, and HDTVs. Premium in-suite catering options are available to purchase in advance.

• Loft suites are located on the sidelines of U.S. Bank Stadium and will include 18 tickets.
• Norseman Suites are located just 36 rows from the field and offer some of the best vantage points to watch Vikings football. 
• Turf suites are located at field level on the Vikings side of the field, with players on the Vikings bench often just feet away. These suites can accommodate groups of up to 24 guests. 
• The Mini-Turf Suites are located directly behind the Vikings bench and are closest to the action. To enter the suite, you must pass through the Delta Sky360 Club, the same club where the Vikings players enter and exit the playing field. 
• Touchdown suites are located at each end zone of the U.S. Bank Stadium. They will include up to 24 tickets.
• Cabin Suites at U.S. Bank Stadium are located along the visitor’s sideline northeast corner of the stadium. The cabin can hold a maximum of 50 guests. 

Related: 2023 Vikings Offensive Line Very Underappreciated Through 4 Weeks

What is there to eat at U.S. Bank Stadium?

There are some delicious spots to eat at U.S. Bank Stadium. We have listed locations where you can grab a bite to eat before or during the game. 

• Classic Stadium Food: Cheeseburgers, hot dogs, chicken sandwiches, fries, nachos, pizza, brats, water, peanuts, beer, soda, and more can be found all around the stadium.
• Cheese Steak: Get the classic Philly cheesesteak with meat, cheese, onions, peppers, and more in sections 107, 108, and 334.
• Nashville Coop: Nashville Hot chicken sandwiches out in FMP Club.
• Prairie Dogs: A hot dog with potato chips, mustard, jam, and more is out in section 122.
• Revival: Tennessee hot chicken sandwich out in section 11.
• Be Graceful Cafe: Falafel pita, impossible sloppy joe, Portobello French dip, and more.
• Heritage: Wings and sweet potato fry dishes.
• Parlour Bar: Serving up double cheeseburgers and more in the Polaris Club.
• Twin Cities Foodies Stand: Caribbean jerk bacon sandwiches and smoky chicken nachos out in section 101.
• Ike’s Carving: Tenderloin sandwiches with chips out in sections 119 and 329.
• Vegan options can be found in sections 121 and 328.

Related: 10 Best Minnesota Vikings QBs of All-Time

In case you’ve been asleep at the proverbial wheel, a friendly heads-up that Villanova won the men’s college basketball national championship. The Wildcats’ Monday night beat-down of Big Blue secured the powerhouse program’s second title in three years.

“#NovaNation has another #NationalChampionship!”

Relive the aftermath in the Alamodome ✌ pic.twitter.com/ztYafxItUb

— NCAA March Madness (@marchmadness) April 3, 2018

Unlike their 2016 crown, Jay Wright’s team didn’t require a walk-off from deep to complete 2018’s impressive run. This time around, Nova easily handled their championship game opponent. In “time flies when you‘re having fun” fashion, their win over Michigan officially put a stamp on 2018’s Final Four.

Call me a petty Millennial, but I want nothing to do with a Big Ten foe winning it all.

Go Nova. Go Gophers.

— Johnny Minnesota (@TheJohnnyMN) April 3, 2018

*I know they’re not as bad as Bucky, but still. 

To give a quick shoutout; Thank you, San Antonio!  You did an excellent job providing a location for the last three games (two semifinals, one final) of the bracket-busting competition. On that note, you can now hold our beer. The city of Minneapolis will take it from here:

That’s right, ladies and gentlemen. In just over one year from meow now, U.S. Bank Stadium will host what organizers have indicated could set the behemoth building’s attendance records. While February’s Super Bowl saw slightly under 68,000 fans pack into the Metrodome’s successor, the entire trio of next April’s games have strong potential to exceed 70,000 people.

While the in-game attendance should surpass the NFL’s big game, the influx of out-of-towners most definitely will not. The pigskin-related event drew more than 100,000 visitors. By hypothetically removing 40% of those tourists (preferably all Eagles fans), you’re left with the approximate amount of travelers for next April’s festivities.

When it comes to the make-up of those 60,000ish people, it’s sure to be a hell of a lot different than what we saw two months ago.

Per Rochelle Olson:

“unlike the Super Bowl, the Final Four doesn’t come with a barrage of corporate activations or ultra-exclusive events. It’s mostly out there for everyone.”

To back up that statement, Olson’s recent StarTribune article touched on this past week’s vibe in Texas’ second-most populated city. The people pleasing “up close and personal” experience was available to all. For example, San Antonio’s “interactive, basketball-themed” Fan Fest didn’t charge an admission. On top of that, unlike the recent security ridden atmosphere surrounding the Eagles and Patriots hotel stays, fans flock to their teams’ temporary home.

Michigan leaving hotel to play for National Championship! pic.twitter.com/yEGS9vdudb

— Jeff Wilson (@ESUCoachWilson) April 2, 2018

In regards to concerns surrounding next year’s Final Four, as is tradition, people won’t stop talking about the weather. The way I see it, the current stretch of snow is almost as frustrating as the fluke season that was Gopher’s 2017-18 Basketball. In my eyes, a more mentioned complaint attached to the 2019 Final Four will be the alcohol restrictions. Due to the college athlete aspect of the three games, booze isn’t readily available.

To those rattled by that news, it will be okay. The workaround to the NCAA’s roadblock is just pretending that U.S. Bank stadium is bar and you’re broke as hell:

via GIPHY

In conclusion, if the thought of checking out the 2019 Final Four flips your switch, you’re going to be there no matter what liquid is banned (if not the game, at least the festivities). In the rare event you don’t have a good time, it won’t cost you an arm and a leg. Plus, like the Super Bowl; who knows when, or if, the pinnacle of the Men’s college basketball will return to the great city of Minneapolis.

A blast from the past! Last time the Twin Cities hosted the @FinalFour wad in 1992! @MplsChamber pic.twitter.com/rDJnTA3Pto

— Jonathan Weinhagen (@jweinhagen) March 31, 2018

Johnny Minnesota @TheJohnnyMN
Minnesota Sports Fan MinnesotaSportsFan.com

The Philadelphia Eagles’ fan base is currently celebrating their victory in Super Bowl LII.

Ever since Sunday evening, videos documenting the City of Brotherly Love’s riot environment have been making the rounds. As Minnesota Sports Fan’s montage below shows, that shit was chaotic:

Now, it ‘s been revealed that some supporters of the Super Bowl Champs, who were at the big game, had degenerate mindsets of their own. Rather than eat animal feces like one of their peers back home, they busted up and removed seat(s) from U.S. Bank Stadium:

Eagles fan sneaks U.S. Bank Stadium seat past TSA security at MSP airport and onto flight https://t.co/t2sBnI3Lnj pic.twitter.com/UcUtYarTTI

— Star Tribune (@StarTribune) February 6, 2018

WTF, TSA? How did you miss this one?

If the man with the purple plastic surrounding his luggage didn’t stand out enough, it was reported that rat-boy was drunk as hell. I know the TSA have bigger fish to fry, but still. This proverbial fish cleaned itself and jumped right into the frying pan. In the event someone attempts to run off with something like this in the future, they need to eat up.

A video of the man, who is wearing Eagles apparel and what appears to be some sort of Super Bowl credentials, was released by Barstool Sports:

This Eagles fan getting his money’s worth by ripping his chair out of the stadium in Minnesotta last night pic.twitter.com/pZsaOxmGA2

— Barstool Sports (@barstoolsports) February 5, 2018

Zak Fick, a member of Skol Nation, who resides in South Dakota, was in attendance for Sunday’s contest. During postgame ceremonies, the Carson Wentz fan heard cracking noises and noticed Eagles’ fans, a section over, destroying U.S. Bank Stadium seats. Zak shared documentation of the damage in a Twitter post:

Here are my photos of the seats that were kicked out by Eagles fans after they won the Super Bowl. pic.twitter.com/aUPW4OjZUl

— Zak (@ZakFick) February 6, 2018

Johnny Investigates:

Below is my quick Q & A with Zak (@ZakFick):

Please Note: As Zak indicates in the interview; whether or not the destruction he witnessed, involved the man who left the stadium with parts of a chair in the above Barstool video, isn’t confirmed. I’ll let you read what Zak said below and let you make your own judgements. I sure as hell did.

Q: Approximately how long after the Hail Mary fell incomplete did you notice the Eagles’ fans destroying the seats?

Q: When you noticed what was occurring, how did you react? Was it evident their end goal was to keep U.S. Bank Stadium’s property?

Q: It’s been reported that you tried catch up with the culprits. Outside of getting to the scene of the crime to find missing chairs, is there anymore to that aspect of this scenario?

Q: Regardless, as a member of Skol Nation and an anti-vandalism advocate, I appreciate the passion. In an attempt to return the favor, if you wish to add anything (plug a business, Carson Wentz shout-out, thank your photography teacher, or anything else) the floor is yours:

Look at Zak with the hat trick: Recognizes the Eagles fans with positive intentions, shows appreciation for the Vikings players and staff, and gives a shout-out to 84. I love it.

If you find yourself wondering how you may be able to help recognize Randy’s HOF induction, even though the weekend is over, feel free to take this approach:

No bar tabs all weekend. In honor of 84, use straight cash, homie

— Johnny Minnesota (@TheJohnnyMN) February 4, 2018

Johnny Minnesota @TheJohnnyMN
Minnesota Sports Fan MinnesotaSportsFan.com