Whether you’ve been to countless Michigan football games or it’s your very first time at the Big House, we have you covered in our ultimate guide to game day at Michigan Stadium. This includes information on parking and tailgating, pregame festivities, in-game traditions and more.
Few sporting experiences compare to a Saturday at Michigan Stadium, so make sure you’re prepared for your visit. Here is some helpful advice to make your experience in Ann Arbor the best it can possibly be.
The most popular parking option near the stadium is Pioneer High School, which is right across the street from the Big House — offering accessible parking and premium tailgating spots, as well as a short walk to the gates. There are dozens of private parking options to consider as well including the Brown Lot and Maize Lot on State Street, and the University of Michigan Golf Course. Additionally, many of the residences around Michigan Stadium provide gameday parking for much more affordable rates.
Start your gameday early by arriving in Ann Arbor several hours before kickoff. Not only to beat the heavy traffic and find a quality parking spot, but to enjoy the tailgating scene. The University of Michigan Golf Course is one of the marquee tailgate options, filled with enthusiastic fans and students directly across from the stadium. However, there is no shortage of other places to tailgate as thousands of fans pack the surrounding neighborhoods with food, drinks, games and music prior to kick off.
The pregame festivities are highlighted by a pair of must-see traditions that have thrilled generations for decades and continue to be a hallmark of Michigan Stadium. Firstly, the Michigan Marching Band’s world-renowned entrance and performance is famous for its rendition of the school’s fight song “The Victors.” Later on, one of the most recognizable game day entrances in all of sports commences as the Wolverines run onto the field, leap and touch the “Go Blue Banner” in front of an erupting home crowd.
It’s called the Big House for a reason right? Michigan Stadium is undoubtedly one of the nation’s most iconic venues but it’s also the largest stadium in the United States with a record-setting capacity of 107,601. The environment is electric from the pregame festivities to kick off and the final whistle as a staggering amount of fans don maize and blue, and cheer on the Wolverines. Michigan Stadium, which originally opened nearly a century ago, is a truly unparalleled place to experience college football.
Any game at Michigan Stadium is a fun experience but if you’re looking for an extra layer of intrigue, it’s always exciting to witness a rivalry matchup against Ohio State and Michigan State, or participate in one of the annual themed games including the Maize Out, Stripe Out, Homecoming and Senior Day. On top of that, be prepared for the stadium-wide “Mr. Brightside” singalong in between the third and fourth quarter, as the home crowd belts out every word of The Killers’ hit song from 2003.
Following the conclusion of the game, there are tons of fantastic restaurants and bars to enjoy. You can’t go wrong with famous Ann Arbor bars Fraser’s Pub, The Brown Jug or Scorekeepers. If you’re looking for food, stop by the Fleetwood Diner, Frita Batidos, Pizza House or Zingerman’s. No matter what part of Ann Arbor you find yourself in, you have to stop for a quick bite or drink before heading home. The Ann Arbor food scene is exceptional so be sure to check it out after visiting Michigan Stadium.
