Northwest Stadium

Northwest Stadium is a sports arena in Maryland, about twenty minutes east of Washington. The stands are divided into several tiers and currently hold 62,000 seats, with sections extending along the entire length of the playing field.

The stadium opened in 1997 as Jack Kent Cooke Stadium, named after the owner who passed away shortly before completion. It received several new names through changing sponsorship agreements and has been called Northwest Stadium since 2024.

The Prince George's Classic brings teams from historically black universities together each year, and the stands fill with families and students wearing their school colors. Spectators bring choreography, group chants and songs, turning the game into a reunion across generations and friend groups.

The route follows Interstate 495 to Exit 16 for Arena Drive, and the parking areas hold several thousand vehicles during events. Arriving early allows more choice in parking and reduces the walk to the entrance gates.

The site received its own ZIP code zone named Raljon, formed from the first names of the owner's sons Ralph and John. This special designation is uncommon in the region and simplifies large mail deliveries during event days.

Location: Prince George's County

Architects: Populous

Official opening: September 14, 1997

Capacity: 62000

Website: https://northweststadium.com

GPS coordinates: 38.90778,-76.86444

Latest update: December 12, 2025 19:07