If getting an early peek at the new U.S. Bank Stadium is a summer goal, it's time to schedule those weekend getaways because the dates are set for free public tours.
The open house is planned for July 23 and 24. Tickets will be free, but they are not available yet so don't call the Minnesota Sports Facilities Authority (MSFA) or the Minnesota Vikings.
MSFA Chairwoman Michele Kelm-Helgen said there will be another announcement about when the tickets will be available online through Ticketmaster.
A ceremonial ribbon-cutting at the building is set for July 22 with media and dignitaries.
The open house will run from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturday and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday.
"Whatever we do, I don't want people turned away," Kelm-Helgen said. "How much interest there will be, I don't know."
Behind-the-scenes planning for the event is going on now, but Kelm-Helgen said to expect more than tours. She mentioned family activities on the plaza and food vendors.
"We're going to make a big celebration," she said.
The multipurpose building, once referred to by Gov. Mark Dayton as "the people's stadium," will officially open for action in August with a soccer match. The Vikings will play their first preseason game later in the month after concerts by Luke Bryan and Metallica.
The stadium, which replaces the Metrodome, was primarily built to become the NFL team's new home. Taxpayers in Minnesota covered $498 million of the $1.1 billion cost. Vikings owners Mark and Zygi Wilf are paying the remainder.
Rochelle Olson • 612-673-1747
Twitter: @rochelleolson
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