Beijing National Stadium (Bird's Nest)
An architectural marvel, the Bird's Nest stadium captivates with its iconic interwoven steel design, especially when illuminated at night.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Dazzling light show
Beijing National Stadium (Bird's Nest)
Best Time
Dazzling light show

Highlights
Must-see attractions
An architectural marvel, the Bird's Nest stadium captivates with its iconic interwoven steel design, especially when illuminated at night.
"The Bird's Nest truly shines after dark; a breathtaking spectacle not to be missed!"
✨ Nighttime Spectacle
Visit after dark to see the Bird's Nest illuminated; it's a truly magical experience!
❄️ Winter Wonderland
Consider a winter visit for the snow and ice festival held within the stadium grounds.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Iconic Facade
Exterior
Marvel at the intricate steel structure resembling a bird's nest, a true architectural wonder.

Illuminated Night View
Exterior
Witness the stadium come alive with vibrant lights after sunset, creating a magical atmosphere.

Olympic Park Exploration
Surrounding Area
Wander through the Olympic Park, home to other iconic venues like the Water Cube.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Nighttime Magic
Beyond the Games
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
✨ Nighttime Spectacle
Visit after dark to see the Bird's Nest illuminated; it's a truly magical experience!
❄️ Winter Wonderland
Consider a winter visit for the snow and ice festival held within the stadium grounds.
It seems nobody talk about this landmark anymore. Because nobody visit it? Why
🎟️ Event Tickets
Check for concerts or events happening during your visit for a unique stadium experience.
🚶♂️ Olympic Park Stroll
Explore the surrounding Olympic Park, including the Water Cube, for a complete Olympic experience.
Can I get some help/advice on whether these sites in Beijing (middle March 2024) will need tickets, and/or would be helpful to reserve in advance?
Tips
from all over the internet
✨ Nighttime Spectacle
Visit after dark to see the Bird's Nest illuminated; it's a truly magical experience!
❄️ Winter Wonderland
Consider a winter visit for the snow and ice festival held within the stadium grounds.
🎟️ Event Tickets
Check for concerts or events happening during your visit for a unique stadium experience.
🚶♂️ Olympic Park Stroll
Explore the surrounding Olympic Park, including the Water Cube, for a complete Olympic experience.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are consistently awestruck by the Bird's Nest's unique architecture, especially its dazzling illumination at night. While some note potential maintenance issues, the stadium remains a must-see landmark for its iconic status and the vibrant atmosphere of the surrounding Olympic Park.
"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."
LL Low
"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."
Rajeshwar Dayal Mathur
"Who can continuously bring here for 3yrs (right after the covid lockdowns) and with more and more shows to be added, only Mayday. At least so far… (written on Aug 2 2025)
With their amazing lights controls and sound effects, especially when I know they are one of the winners of red dot design award. (B’IN Music TW) It feels you are just enjoy the music itself but you are attend a grand event.
The journey doesn’t stop here, but from the past to the future.
After the 2008 Olympic, they are the first group to held a concert here and which opens this market to the public. Honestly it’s a quite challenging experience for them to solve the serious echo problem and long distance stages, screens and all the settings of the music instruments/equipments…
A place can hold near 100K audience, building area 258,000 square meters and covers an area of 20.4 hectares. Mayday is trying to present the best of their music, with efforts, heart, souls and so many love… Which everyone shall can felt that spirit and enjoys the show…
All the best to be here, and everywhere.
Finally, we reach the destination, called it's you makes me stronger with love.
13 shows in 2025, 43 shows in the Bird's nest as of 2025"
Annie & Carrot
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Bird's Nest is easily accessible via Beijing's subway system. Take Line 8 to the Olympic Green South Gate station or Line 15 to the Olympic Green station. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also readily available.
Yes, there are usually plenty of taxis and ride-sharing services available near the stadium, especially after events. The subway stations are also conveniently located for onward travel.
Absolutely! The Bird's Nest is part of the Olympic Park, and you can easily walk to other venues like the Water Cube. It's a pleasant stroll, especially in good weather.
Taking the subway is recommended for nighttime visits as it's reliable and avoids potential traffic congestion. Line 8 to Olympic Green South Gate is a good option.
Yes, there are parking facilities available, but they can fill up quickly, especially on event days. It's often easier to use public transportation.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
While you can admire the exterior of the Bird's Nest from the outside for free, you'll need to purchase tickets if you wish to go inside or visit specific exhibitions or events held within the stadium.
Tickets can typically be purchased on-site at the stadium's ticket office. For special events or concerts, it's advisable to book in advance through official ticketing platforms or the venue's website.
Opening hours can vary depending on the season and whether there are events scheduled. It's best to check the official website or local listings for the most up-to-date information before your visit.
Discounts may be available for students, seniors, or children. It's worth inquiring at the ticket office or checking the official website for any promotional offers.
Yes, you can visit the Bird's Nest independently. However, guided tours are available and can offer deeper insights into its history and architecture.
📸 📸 Photography
The best photo opportunities are from the surrounding Olympic Park, offering wide-angle views of the stadium's unique structure. The illuminated facade at night is particularly photogenic.
Photography is generally allowed inside the stadium, but restrictions may apply during events or for specific exhibits. Always be mindful of any posted signs or staff instructions.
For daytime shots, aim for the golden hours around sunrise or sunset for softer light. For dramatic shots, the illuminated night view is unparalleled.
Drone usage is typically prohibited in and around major public venues like the Bird's Nest due to security and safety regulations. It's best to leave drones at home.
Try capturing the stadium from a low angle to emphasize its grand scale, or from a distance to showcase its integration with the surrounding park. The symmetry is also a key photographic element.
🎫 ❄️ Winter Activities
During winter, the Bird's Nest often hosts a snow and ice festival, featuring ice skating, snow slides, and other winter-themed attractions.
Yes, the Bird's Nest and the surrounding Olympic Park are generally open year-round, though specific attractions or events may have seasonal hours.
Bundle up! Beijing winters are cold. Wear warm layers, a heavy coat, hat, gloves, and waterproof boots.
Often, an ice rink is set up as part of the winter festival, allowing visitors to enjoy ice skating within the Olympic Park.
Yes, the snow and ice festival usually offers activities that are fun for families and children, such as snow slides and ice sculptures.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting in the late afternoon to catch the transition from daylight to the illuminated nighttime view, which is often a highlight for younger visitors. While inside the stadium, keep an eye out for any family-friendly exhibits or events that might be taking place. The open spaces around the stadium are perfect for a picnic or a leisurely stroll.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
For daytime photography, the golden hours offer beautiful lighting. Consider visiting during the shoulder seasons to avoid peak crowds and have more freedom to set up your shots. The nearby Water Cube also offers excellent photographic opportunities, making the Olympic Park a prime location for a photo walk.
❄️ Winter Travelers
Remember to bundle up warmly, as Beijing winters can be quite chilly. Even if there isn't a specific festival, the illuminated stadium at night is still a stunning sight against a snowy backdrop. The Olympic Park remains accessible and offers a unique perspective in the winter months.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Architectural Marvel: The Bird's Nest Design
This unique design not only provides aesthetic appeal but also contributes to the stadium's functionality. The complex latticework allows for natural light and ventilation, reducing the need for artificial lighting and air conditioning. The architects aimed to create a structure that felt both monumental and organic, a symbol of China's embrace of modernity while respecting natural forms. The engineering marvel was a key talking point during the 2008 Olympics and continues to impress visitors today.
Despite its grandeur, some visitors have noted that maintenance can be lacking, and the stadium may not have a permanent tenant, leading to periods where its use is less defined. However, its iconic status ensures it remains a significant landmark for tourists and a symbol of Beijing's Olympic legacy.
From Olympic Venue to Modern Hub
Today, the Bird's Nest is not just a relic of the past but a vibrant hub for entertainment and sports. It regularly hosts major concerts, sporting events, and cultural performances, drawing large crowds. Visitors can often check the schedule to see if their visit coincides with a special event, offering a chance to experience the stadium's atmosphere during a live event.
Beyond its event-hosting capabilities, the surrounding Olympic Park offers a broader experience. Visitors can explore other iconic venues like the Water Cube (National Aquatics Center), walk through the expansive green spaces, and learn more about Beijing's Olympic history. This makes a visit to the Bird's Nest a comprehensive cultural and recreational outing.
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