Overview & Suitability
Stadium Lot 1, also widely recognized as the Purple Lot, is a premier surface parking facility located at 811 S 3rd St in the heart of Downtown East Minneapolis. This facility is specifically designed to accommodate standard passenger vehicles, providing a convenient and accessible parking solution for visitors to the area. While it serves as a flexible, high-capacity space for general daily parking, it is particularly well-known for its utility during large-scale events.
Access, Dimensions & Clearance
The facility is an open-air, paved surface lot, which allows for unobstructed entry and exit for standard vehicles. While the lot is generally accessible for passenger cars, drivers of oversized vehicles are welcome, though they are subject to an additional fee payable upon drive-up. There are no height restrictions typical of covered garages, making it a suitable choice for taller non-commercial vehicles.
Parking Rates, Tariffs & Booking
Parking rates are dynamic and may fluctuate based on demand and event schedules at the nearby U.S. Bank Stadium. Options for payment include:
- Pre-booking through platforms like SpotHero, ParkWhiz, or ParkMobile to secure a guaranteed space.
- On-demand payments via mobile apps (such as HONK or ParkMobile) upon arrival.
- License plate registration is mandatory for all mobile passes; users must ensure their vehicle information is accurate before entering the lot.
Security & Amenities
The lot offers 24/7 access, providing users with the flexibility to arrive and depart according to their own schedules. Key features include:
- Paved, well-marked surface layout.
- Unobstructed, self-service entry and exit.
- Mobile pass integration, eliminating the need for physical tickets or printing.
- Strategic location in a high-traffic urban area with significant pedestrian visibility.
Strategic Alternative
Stadium Lot 1 is a primary parking alternative for attendees of major events at U.S. Bank Stadium, as it is situated just across the street from the venue. It also serves as a convenient and often more affordable starting point for visitors exploring the Guthrie Theater, Mill City Museum, and the wider Downtown East dining and entertainment district, offering a streamlined experience compared to the larger, congestion-prone stadium ramps.
Event & Venue Access: Traveling for an event? Check out full guide and rates for parking near Canopy by Hilton Minneapolis Mill District.
