The Cotton Bowl is one of the most historic and celebrated games in college football, drawing millions of viewers and thousands of fans each year. For decades, fans have asked a simple but important question: Where is the Cotton Bowl being played? The answer has evolved over time, reflecting both tradition and modernization in college athletics.
TLDR: The Cotton Bowl Classic is currently played at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, the home of the Dallas Cowboys. While the game began at the historic Cotton Bowl Stadium in Dallas, it moved to Arlington in 2010 to accommodate larger crowds and modern amenities. The stadium is part of the Dallas–Fort Worth metroplex and hosts major sporting events year-round. Today, AT&T Stadium provides a state-of-the-art setting for one of college football’s biggest bowl games.
The Current Home of the Cotton Bowl
The modern Cotton Bowl Classic is played at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas. Opened in 2009, this massive domed stadium is located between Dallas and Fort Worth and serves as the home field of the NFL’s Dallas Cowboys.
AT&T Stadium is widely regarded as one of the most advanced sports venues in the world. With a seating capacity of more than 80,000 — and expandability to over 100,000 for major events — it provides ample space for the large crowds that the Cotton Bowl Classic attracts each season.
The move to AT&T Stadium officially occurred in 2010. Since then, every edition of the Cotton Bowl Classic has taken place there, including those that are part of the College Football Playoff (CFP) rotation.
Why Arlington?
Arlington sits in the heart of the Dallas–Fort Worth Metroplex, one of the largest metropolitan areas in the United States. Its central location makes it easily accessible for fans traveling from across Texas and beyond.
Key advantages of AT&T Stadium include:
- Retractable roof for climate control and comfort
- The world-famous center-hung high-definition video board
- Modern luxury suites and premium seating options
- Expanded parking and transportation infrastructure
- Enhanced media and broadcasting capabilities
These improvements were significant reasons why organizers decided to move the game from its historic location.
The Original Cotton Bowl Stadium
Before moving to Arlington, the Cotton Bowl Classic was played at the iconic Cotton Bowl Stadium in Dallas, Texas. The stadium is located in Fair Park, just east of downtown Dallas.
Image not found in postmetaThe first Cotton Bowl Classic was played there in 1937. For more than 70 years, the stadium served as the permanent home of the game. During that time, it became deeply associated with college football tradition.
The stadium once had a capacity exceeding 90,000 seats, particularly during its peak years in the mid-20th century. It hosted countless legendary performances and memorable matches, building its reputation as one of college football’s sacred venues.
Why the Move Happened
Although the Cotton Bowl Stadium was historic, it lacked many of the amenities expected in modern sports entertainment. Over time, several factors led to the relocation:
- Aging infrastructure
- Limited premium seating and luxury suites
- Lack of a retractable roof (weather concerns)
- Competition with other major bowl games in newer facilities
By relocating to AT&T Stadium, the Cotton Bowl Classic was able to remain competitive in the evolving landscape of college football postseason games.
The Cotton Bowl and the College Football Playoff
Today, the Cotton Bowl Classic holds an even more prominent role as one of the “New Year’s Six” bowl games. These six elite bowls are part of the College Football Playoff (CFP) system and rotate as host sites for national semifinal games.
When selected as a semifinal host, AT&T Stadium transforms into the center of the college football world. The massive video board, vibrant crowd atmosphere, and advanced lighting create a championship-level experience.
Being played at AT&T Stadium enhances the Cotton Bowl’s prestige, aligning it with other major bowl games held in state-of-the-art stadiums nationwide.
The Difference Between the Cotton Bowl Game and the Cotton Bowl Stadium
Many fans confuse the Cotton Bowl Classic with Cotton Bowl Stadium. While they share a name and history, they are no longer the same entity.
To clarify:
- Cotton Bowl Classic: The postseason college football game.
- Cotton Bowl Stadium: The historic stadium in Dallas where the game was once played.
- AT&T Stadium: The current venue in Arlington hosting the game.
This distinction is important for travelers planning to attend the game, as navigating to the wrong location could mean arriving in downtown Dallas instead of Arlington.
What to Know If Attending the Cotton Bowl
If someone plans to attend the Cotton Bowl Classic in person, knowing the exact location is crucial.
Address of AT&T Stadium:
1 AT&T Way
Arlington, Texas 76011
Visitors should note that Arlington does not have a traditional public rail system connecting directly to Dallas or Fort Worth. Most attendees arrive by:
- Personal vehicle
- Rideshare services
- Charter buses
- Special event transportation packages
Because the game typically takes place in late December or early January, weather conditions are generally mild compared to northern states — but the retractable roof ensures that weather rarely disrupts play.
The Economic Impact of Hosting the Game in Arlington
The move to AT&T Stadium significantly increased the economic impact of the Cotton Bowl Classic. The larger stadium capacity and enhanced amenities have allowed organizers to:
- Sell more tickets
- Attract high-profile sponsors
- Host corporate hospitality events
- Generate increased tourism revenue
The Dallas–Fort Worth area benefits tremendously each year, as hotels, restaurants, and entertainment venues experience a surge in activity surrounding the game.
A Tradition That Still Honors Its Roots
Even though the Cotton Bowl Classic is no longer played in the original Cotton Bowl Stadium, it continues to honor its legacy. The game retains its historic name, preserving decades of tradition dating back to the 1930s.
Fair Park’s Cotton Bowl Stadium still hosts other events, including the annual Red River Rivalry between the University of Texas and the University of Oklahoma. This ensures that the original venue remains an important part of college football culture.
In this way, the Cotton Bowl exists both as a modern spectacle in Arlington and as a cherished memory in Dallas.
Conclusion
So, where is the Cotton Bowl being played? The answer is clear: AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas. While the game’s history is rooted in Dallas’ Cotton Bowl Stadium, the move in 2010 ushered in a new era of growth, modernization, and national prominence.
Today, the Cotton Bowl Classic stands as one of college football’s premier postseason events. Its home at AT&T Stadium ensures a world-class experience for fans, players, and broadcasters alike — all while preserving the rich Texas tradition that gave the game its name.
FAQ
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Is the Cotton Bowl still played at the original Cotton Bowl Stadium?
No. Since 2010, the Cotton Bowl Classic has been played at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas. -
Where is AT&T Stadium located?
AT&T Stadium is located in Arlington, Texas, between Dallas and Fort Worth. -
Why did the Cotton Bowl move from Dallas to Arlington?
The move occurred to provide modern amenities, a larger seating capacity, luxury suites, and a retractable roof for weather protection. -
What is the seating capacity for the Cotton Bowl at AT&T Stadium?
The stadium seats more than 80,000 fans, with the ability to expand beyond 100,000 for major events. -
Is the Cotton Bowl part of the College Football Playoff?
Yes. The Cotton Bowl Classic is one of the New Year’s Six bowl games and periodically hosts College Football Playoff semifinal games. -
Does the original Cotton Bowl Stadium still host football games?
Yes. It hosts events such as the Red River Rivalry, but it no longer hosts the Cotton Bowl Classic.