A 49ers game day at Levi’s® Stadium isn’t just about watching football — it’s an all-day event full of excitement! Whether you’re gearing up before the game or celebrating afterward, there’s no shortage of things to do in Santa Clara. This is your roadmap to an unforgettable experience, featuring the best places to eat, tailgate, and relax before and after the game.
Ready to make your 49ers game day epic? Let’s dive into the ultimate guide for the perfect pre-game and post-game plans in Santa Clara.
Stay at a Santa Clara Hotel for the Full Experience
First things first, if you’re making a weekend out of your trip, there are plenty of great hotel options close to Levi’s® Stadium.
- Hilton Santa Clara: Right next to Levi’s® Stadium, the Hilton is a top choice for fans wanting to stay close to the action.
- AC Hotel Santa Clara: For a chic vibe, AC Hotels Santa Clara is known for its sleek design and cool atmosphere.
- Hyatt Regency Santa Clara: This upscale hotel offers the convenience of a short walk to the stadium, plus premium amenities — ideal for fans who want to balance game day excitement with some relaxation.
- Avatar Hotel Santa Clara: Recently remodeled, Avatar Hotel blends Palm Springs art-deco vibes with modern flair. A short walk away from Levi’s® Stadium, it offers a unique, playful atmosphere with a stylish and Instagram-worthy aesthetic. It’s perfect for fans looking for a fun stay close to the game-day action.
- Santa Clara Marriott: A local favorite with spacious rooms and a resort-style pool, the Santa Clara Marriott is just minutes from Levi’s® Stadium. Whether you’re sipping cocktails at the on-site bar or enjoying California-inspired cuisine at Bosc & Bartlett this hotel is a winning choice for game-day travelers.
BUT WAIT THERE’S MORE! Here is a full list of our recommended Santa Clara Hotels.
We have more than four hotels in Santa Clara (we promise!), but why not browse through our carefully curated list to find the one that’s just your vibe. No matter where you stay, these hotels offer convenience and comfort, and you’ll be close enough to the action.
I. Pre-Game Must-Dos
Before cheering on the greatest football team of all time — the San Francisco 49ers — there’s plenty to do around the stadium to get you in the game-day spirit.
Grab a Bite at a Local Santa Clara Restaurant
Before cheering on the greatest football team of all time — the San Francisco 49ers — there’s plenty to do around the stadium to get you in the game-day spirit.
No game day is complete without a solid pre-game meal. Whether you’re looking for a quick bite or a sit-down meal, Santa Clara has a variety of nearby spots to fuel up before heading to Levi’s® Stadium. And while you’re rooting for the 49ers, you’ll also be supporting the local community — from small business owners to the staff they employ. So remember, every dollar spent goes beyond just your meal, helping to uplift the local economy and support the people who make Santa Clara such a great place to visit.
Experience Fan-Favorite Eats
If you’re short on time and want something quick within walking distance of the stadium, these fan favorites have you covered.
ites have you covered and are perfect for fueling up before kickoff.
Pizza My Heart (4300 Great America Pkwy #148, Santa Clara, CA 95054)
This neighborhood favorite is known for its quick service and delicious slices. Whether you’re craving a classic pepperoni or a local specialty, it’s a great option for a casual bite before the game.
Clara’s Junction (2221 Tasman Dr, Santa Clara, CA 95054)
A top pick for 49ers fans, Clara’s Junction is more than just a restaurant. It’s a vibrant pre-game hangout with bold American eats like burgers, tacos and BBQ, a spacious indoor-outdoor setup, lawn games, fire pits, and TVs. It’s the kind of place where you can grab a craft beer or cocktail, hang out with friends, and get into the game-day spirit before heading to the stadium.
Courtesy: Clara’s Junction & Benedicte Castillo
Tailgate at Levi’s® Stadium Parking Lot
Tailgating at Levi’s® Stadium is a tradition that brings 49ers fans together for a true football experience. Bring your friends and make some new ones over your shared love of football. The parking lots open 3.5 hours before kickoff, so get there early to claim your spot and start grilling!
Tip: Bring your own BBQ, drinks, favorite Niners decorations, and chairs to set up a proper tailgate, but remember — tailgating wraps up at kickoff. Once the game starts, the parking lots close for tailgating, so plan accordingly.
For more information on the Tailgating please visit Levisstadium.com
Join the Hilton Santa Clara’s TailG8 Party
If you’re looking to tailgate but don’t have your own set up, the Hilton Santa Clara TailG8 party is where you want to be. Open 3 hours before the event, and one hour after, it is located next to the stadium in Hilton’s parking lot.
They host a full-blown pre-game bash featuring the TailG8 food truck, live DJ, and a VIP bottle service area. (upon request, contact the Hilton Santa Clara Team.) It’s the perfect spot to meet up with fellow fans, enjoy some good vibes, and get hyped for the game.
Touchdown at the Red Zone Rally at California’s Great America
The Red Zone Rally at California’s Great America is the ultimate pregame party for 49ers fans! Held in a spacious air-conditioned pavilion, attendees enjoy an all-inclusive experience featuring delicious food and drinks, including beer and wine, for three hours before kickoff. The event includes live entertainment, interactive games, and access to the Flight Deck roller coaster, making it a fun-filled way to gear up for the game. For more details, check out the Levi’s Stadium website.
Visit the 49ers Museum
Before heading to your seat, immerse yourself in 49ers history at the 49ers Museum, located inside Levi’s® Stadium. The museum is open on game days (starting 3 hours before kickoff), giving fans a chance to explore the rich history of the team. From iconic moments to in-depth exhibits, it’s a great way to appreciate the legacy of the 49ers.
- More Info: You can find museum details and tickets here — 49ers Museum
II. Post-Game Fun
Just because the game ends doesn’t mean the fun has to. Whether you’re looking to outwait the traffic or celebrate a big win, here’s how to keep the excitement going after the final whistle.
Head Back to Hilton’s TailG8
Once the game ends, the party continues at Hilton’s TailG8 for an extra hour! It’s a great way to dodge the traffic and keep the good times rolling. Whether you’re celebrating a win or decompressing after a tough loss, the TailG8 after-party is a convenient spot to hang out, have a drink, and enjoy the post-game atmosphere.
- Why Go: You’re already right next to Levi’s Stadium, so you won’t have to worry about traffic. Plus, the after-party gives you a chance to keep the energy going with fellow 49ers fans.
Grab Drinks or Food at Santa Clara Square
If you’re not quite ready to head home, Santa Clara Square offers a few great post-game options for food and drinks. You can head over to Puesto for tacos or Barebottle Brewing Company to enjoy some local craft beers.
Keep in Mind: These places close around 9-9:30 p.m., so they’re better suited for day games rather than Sunday, Monday, or Thursday Night Football matchups. (Check the business hours for each place.)
Explore Santa Clara’s Bar Scene
For those wanting to venture a bit farther, Santa Clara has a couple of solid bar options about five miles from the stadium. While they’re not the closest, they’re worth checking out if you want to experience the local scene:
- The Sportsmen’s Lounge: A classic dive bar with plenty of TVs for post-game recaps.
- Taplands: A local favorite for craft beer enthusiasts, Taplands offers a wide selection of beers on tap and a laid-back atmosphere.
Please drink responsibly. Arrange for a designated driver or use a rideshare or taxi service if needed.
Wrapping Up Game Day in Santa Clara
Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just along for the ride, Santa Clara has everything you need to make your 49ers game day memorable. From pre-game tailgating and post-game parties to great hotel experiences and local dining options, there’s no shortage of ways to enhance your visit.
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