National Stadium

Beijing National Stadium or fondly known as Bird Nest Stadium. It was designed for 2008 Summer Olympics and Paralympics. This stadium has hosted many international and national events as well as concerts since. The stadium is spacious and beautifully decorated with commemorative plaque and pictures. Ticket can be purchased at the booth just outside the stadium or online. Visitors have the chance to climb to the top of the stadium and get a panoramic view of the surroundings.

The National Stadium in Beijing also called the Bird’s Nest is an engineering marvel.  It covers an area of 204,000 square meters and has a capacity of 91,000. It costed USD 428M and  was officially completed in June 2008. It is owned and operated by a partnership company between Beijing Municipal State-and CITIC Group. It was used for Olymics in 2008 for Summer Olympics and for winter Olympics in 2022. Though you have to buy a ticket to enter, when we visited, we were allowed to go in free as Senior Citizens. We are really very thankful for the sweet gesture.

It's easier to access from the left side (coming from the city center). If you like running, you can run outside the stadium easily, and you have a long straight peatonal street to run near the stadium.

Visited at night when the stadium is lit up and looks beautiful. There are many shops and small eateries open at night and is a good way place to bring the family for a stroll after dinner. About 30mins subway ride from Wang Fu Jing station.

The Bird’s Nest stands there, wide and open like a great bird ready to take flight. Its lines are sharp, its shape strange but sure. The space inside is big, hollow, and echoes with the weight of many feet. It feels like the future has landed here, a place made of steel and dreams. You look at it and it feels strong and wild at the same time. The air around it hums with life and memory. It’s not just a stadium — it is a story told in iron and sky. Simple. Bold. True.

Oh yes. This is absolutely a beautiful place. The architecture of the stadium is amazing. Even the whole area is wide and open so it's easy to walk around. If there is an event, obviously there a many people but except for road crossing is everything smooth. There are also some small food and vendors so no need to worry about your stomach. Thank you🤩

The Bird's Nest Stadium is an architectural marvel and a must-visit when in Beijing. The design is breathtaking, and its historical significance as the centerpiece of the 2008 Olympics adds to the experience. The stadium's intricate steel structure is even more impressive up close, and it’s beautifully lit at night, creating a spectacular sight. The surrounding Olympic Park area is great for a stroll, with plenty of photo opportunities. If you're a sports or architecture enthusiast, consider taking a tour inside—it’s worth it. There's a museum inside that provides fascinating insights into the stadium's construction and its role in the Olympics. It's easy to get to by public transport, and there are plenty of amenities nearby. Overall, the Bird’s Nest combines history, design, and cultural significance, making it a highlight of any Beijing visit!

Easy access via Beijing Subway. Free and easy to walk up to the Olympic Stadium, walk around the huge avenues. Even walk up to the indoor stadium. Nice views in the evening the sunset was beautiful. If you like you could pay to ride the tourist trams but you could just walk around there. More relaxed environment.