The Dallas Cowboys aren’t just making headlines for what happens on the field — their fans are stealing the show before kickoff, too. A new study from VegasInsider found that the Cowboys have the best tailgating experience in the entire NFL for 2025, surpassing every other team in terms of affordability, fan enthusiasm, and easy access around AT&T Stadium.
Dallas Cowboys Rank No. 1 for Tailgating Nationwide
GettyFans tailgate before the Dallas Cowboys take on the Los Angeles Chargers during a Thanksgiving Day game on November 23, 2017, in Arlington, Texas
The Cowboys received a tailgating score of 76.54 out of 100, the highest in the study’s NFL category. The report measured fan enthusiasm through online sentiment and search trends, average tailgating costs, and available parking spaces near stadiums. AT&T Stadium, home of the Cowboys, boasts roughly 9,091 parking spaces — enough to support one of the largest tailgate gatherings in professional sports.
A spokesperson for VegasInsider praised the Cowboys’ tailgating culture, saying, “AT&T Stadium is one of the most recognizable landmarks in American sports, and its tailgating scene reflects that same sense of scale and energy. From early morning BBQs to elaborate fan setups, Cowboys fans turn every home game into a celebration of football culture. Their enthusiasm, organization, and community spirit make Dallas one of the true centers of NFL tailgating.”
The study also found that the average cost for tailgating essentials — including beer, BBQ fuel, meat, and parking — came to $72.04, making the experience relatively affordable compared to other NFL cities. The Cowboys’ 65.56% positive fan sentiment ranked among the highest in the league, and more than 3,100 monthly online searches are made about Dallas Cowboys tailgating and game-day culture.
The 2025 Tailgating Index analyzed all 32 NFL teams using three main categories: affordability (40%), fan passion (40%), and accessibility (20%). The Cowboys topped the list, followed by the Buffalo Bills, Denver Broncos, Kansas City Chiefs, and Atlanta Falcons, rounding out the top five.
Cowboys Look to Rebound Against the Commanders
GettyThe Cowboys have cleared star WR CeeDee Lamb to play week 7
While the Cowboys are dominating off the field, they’ll look to carry that momentum onto the gridiron this weekend. Dallas (2-3-1) is set to face the Washington Commanders (3-3) in a key NFC East divisional matchup at AT&T Stadium on Sunday, October 19.
Dallas dropped a 30-27 loss to the Carolina Panthers in Week 6 and will aim to rebound at home. The Cowboys are slight favorites after Washington ruled out several key receivers, including Deebo Samuel and Terry McLaurin, due to injuries.
A win would not only boost Dallas’ divisional record but also restore momentum as the team tries to climb back into playoff contention.
Head coach Mike McCarthy emphasized focus during his weekly press conference, saying, “We know what kind of game this will be. Washington’s a tough team, and every divisional game matters. We’ve got to execute better and take advantage of being at home.”
As the team prepares to face the Commanders, one thing remains certain — win or lose, the Cowboys’ fans will keep the grills hot, the coolers full, and the stadium buzzing with energy all season long.
The Washington Commanders and Dallas Cowboys play Sunday, October 19, at AT&T Stadium.
Kickoff is scheduled for 4:25 p.m. ET on FOX.
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