Bird's Nest (National Stadium)

Overview

The National Stadium, known as the Bird's Nest, is the iconic centerpiece of the 2008 Beijing Olympics. Designed by Herzog & de Meuron with artist Ai Weiwei as consultant, its interlocking steel lattice structure evokes a massive nest.

Highlights

• Architecture: 42,000 tons of interwoven steel beams form the world's largest enclosed steel structure, simultaneously structural and decorative.
• Interior Tour: Walk through the stadium bowl, visit the VIP areas, and stand on the track where Usain Bolt set his world records.
• Night Glow: The stadium is dramatically lit at night with a red glow, especially spectacular when combined with the adjacent blue Water Cube.

History

Completed in 2008 for the Summer Olympics at a cost of $423 million. It hosted the opening and closing ceremonies and athletics events. It was repurposed for the 2022 Winter Olympics ceremonies.

Visitor Tips

• Combined Ticket: Buy a joint ticket for the Bird's Nest and Water Cube to save money.
• Evening Visit: The exterior is most impressive after dark when the steel lattice glows red.
• Duration: 45–60 minutes.