Minnesota Vikings

U.S. Bank Stadium in downtown Minneapolis is an architectural marvel. The translucent roof lets natural light flood the field, the angular glass facade looks like a Viking ship cutting through the cityscape, and the interior is one of the loudest enclosed stadiums in the NFL. When the Skol Clap starts and 66,000 fans are pounding in unison, the noise is absolutely deafening.

Vikings fans are deeply passionate and have an incredible ability to believe that this is the year. Every year. Despite the heartbreak - the missed field goals, the NFC Championship losses, the moments that would break lesser fanbases - Minnesota keeps showing up with full-throated optimism. The Minneapolis Miracle (Stefon Diggs, sideline, touchdown, unbelievable) proved that this fanbase's faith is sometimes rewarded in the most spectacular way possible.

The tailgate around U.S. Bank Stadium has adapted to the downtown location nicely. The lots fill up, but the real pregame scene is the bars and restaurants within walking distance. The Depot and the surrounding warehouse district spots are packed with purple jerseys hours before kickoff.

Before the game, hit up Brit's Pub for rooftop drinks or The Freehouse for craft beers. After the game, the bars on Hennepin Avenue and in the North Loop are right there. If you're visiting in the winter, embrace it - bundle up, walk across the Skyway system (enclosed bridges connecting buildings downtown), and channel your inner Viking. U.S. Bank Stadium took Minneapolis and gave it a football fortress. SKOL.