Step-Sons First Trip to Heinz Field coming from Indy

I'm a Colts season ticket holder (don't laugh) my step-son is a die hard Steelers fan. We have been lucky over the past several years because the Steelers have played in Indy and we were able to go to those games together. He turned 16 this week and I surprised him with tickets to the Bengals game in December at Heinz field. Worked a bunch of OT to splurge on front row Steelers sideline tickets. I want him to have the full experience. I tailgate in Indy and would like to find a Tailgate to hang out with before the game so he can get the full experience. If anyone is open to a couple of out of town guys hanging out with them before the game let us know or we will be stuck with Mom and Daughters at the hotel until close to game time. Also what's the best way to get from hotel to Heinz field? Taxi? Uber? Bus? He tore his ACL ( high school football ) and has surgery before thanksgiving break so not sure he will fill up to tailgating but hoping and planning for the best.

 

I am so sorry to hear about the ACL. I am not much help when it comes from downtown hotels to stadium.

As far as budget trips in the future, I have traveled from Missouri with a stop off at friends Terre Haute. It will be a smooth trip.
We travel to Washington PA. Tons of hotels outside south of Pitt. Tanger outlet mall with Steeler Shop, tons of places to eat etc. and 20 minutes south
Then we travel to game and go through Fort Pitt tunnel for us out of town'ers for the experience.GPS will take you a different route to west end bridge.
Once I get through the tunnel, I swing left and swing by Heinz Field and park west of the Rivers Casino at the Cardello Electric Company under the west end bridge. Its a short walk and cost 20 bucks. If you are staying downtown, I would check with hotel. They probably have shuttles. Also, I would check with Steelers and they could help with golf cart upon arrival with you son's ACL injury. If not a member of Steeler Nation Unite, make sure to do so with all the benefits at the game.
Make sure to see the Immaculate Recpeption marker and the Art Rooney statue. The HOF inside is awesome as well. You will become a Steelers fan when it's all over. Your son will love it.

 

If you're wanting to tailgate just buy a parking pass from Stubhub. Any of the gold or Red lots are close to the stadium. Don't do a garage as the don't allow tailgating in those.

 

Hey, since you’re splurging...

My son & I stayed at the Wyndham (the old Hilton), right at the point. Get a room on a high floor for a fantastic view. And it’s pretty close to walk to/from the stadium. (Although probably too far for someone coming off knee surgery.)