Whether you’re a die-hard college football fan or just an overall sports enthusiast, there’s something to be said for seeing the 18-time national champion Crimson Tide football team play at the University of Alabama’s Bryant-Denny Stadium. The atmosphere inside the stadium is electric, and experiencing it in person is incredible. Come see why Tuscaloosa is the ultimate sports destination with the help of our Alabama football gameday guide.
My visit to Tuscaloosa was paid for by Visit Tuscaloosa.
All opinions and reviews are unbiased and my own.
What To Do Before The Game
The Quad is a 22-acre greenspace in the center of the University of Alabama’s campus. Like many other SEC schools, tailgating is serious business, and you will see people going all out. I’m talking formal attire, generators powering multiple TVs, tablecloths, glass dishes, Pinterest-perfect decorations, and catered food spreads. Other tailgaters just set up chairs and enjoy relaxing in the Quad, among other Alabama fans.
For a true Alabama football gameday experience, set up a tailgate here. Free space on the west side of the Quad is available the day of, or you can reserve a spot ahead of time.
Fun Fact: The Alabama Football team played their first few seasons on the Quad.
Two hours before kickoff is the Walk of Champions, outside of Bryant-Denny Stadium. The football team and coaching staff will walk from their bus to the stadium with a sea of fans cheering them on. Some players may even give you a high five. This Alabama football gameday tradition is great for fans of all ages.
Tip: If you want a good spot, you will need to arrive early.
The Coca-Cola Kickoff Zone is located at the North End of Bryant-Denny Stadium (beside the Walk of Fame). Here, kids can play games and meet former players during autograph sessions.
More Things To Do Before Gameday
Another Bama gameday tradition is the Elephant Stomp. Held on the steps of the Gorga Library one hour before kickoff, hear the University of Alabama’s Million Dollar Band perform the school’s fight song, “Yea, Alabama,” during this exciting pep rally.
Fun Fact: The Million Dollar Band is made up of more than 400 members.
On Alabama football gamedays, food trucks line up along the Quad, allowing you to sample some of what Tuscaloosa offers. One of our favorite food trucks is Jim’N Nick’s, serving slow-smoked Southern goodness.
While on the University of Alabama’s campus, you should definitely walk around and take in the school’s beautiful architecture and landscape. The academic buildings are just as spectacular as the giant sorority and fraternity houses.
Be sure to admire the majestic Denny Chimes on the Quad. The 115-foot tall clock tower has a 35-bell carillon that rings every 15 minutes.
A short walk from the Quad is the Paul W. Bryant Museum. It is home to artifacts, memorabilia, and historic videos telling the special story of Alabama football. It’s a great way to get in the spirit before the game!
The museum is open from 9 AM to 4 PM on Alabama football gamedays. Ticket prices are $5 for adults, $3 for children (K-12), and free for children under five and University of Alabama faculty, staff, and students.
Where To Park
Several places around town offer gameday parking passes and a free shuttle to and from the Quad. If passes are sold out for the game you attend, check out these off-campus public parking areas.
If you’re looking to park for free, I recommend Downtown Tuscaloosa. Bryant-Denny Stadium is an easy one-mile walk from downtown. Tuscaloosa also has several ride-share options, with two designated pick-up and drop-off areas on campus.
ADA parking is available on a first-come, first-serve basis on campus in the Tutwiler Parking Deck.
What To Do After Alabama Football Gameday
Downtown Tuscaloosa is full of great local restaurants, including FIVE Tuscaloosa, Half Shell Oyster House, Taco Mama, and Mugshots Grill & Bar. A few boutique stores around town to check out are The Shirt Shop, Pants Store, Lou and Company, and Pause.
You’ll even find a few breweries in downtown Tuscaloosa, like Loosa Brews and Black Warrior Brewing Company.
If you want to check out Tuscaloosa’s nightlife after the football game, head to the Strip. This street (conveniently located near the stadium) has college-town vibes with shopping opportunities and several bars.
You can even end your Alabama football gameday with a meal from the Strip’s Waffle House.
Make A Weekend Of It
Tuscaloosa is rich in history, art, and tradition. In addition to the University of Alabama and all that it has to offer, you will also find a plethora of outdoor opportunities, walkable downtown, restaurants for every palate, and numerous historical offerings.
Make a weekend of your time in Tuscaloosa with these fun things to do.
Other Things To Know For An Alabama Football Gameday
- Bryant-Denny Stadium has a clear bag policy.
- You must enter the stadium through the designated gate listed on your tickets.
- Bryant-Denny Stadium’s official capacity is 100,077 people.
- Buy your Alabama game day gear at The Supe Store in downtown Tuscaloosa.
- If you’re going to the game with children, stop by the southeast corner of the Quad. Several large inflatables are set up here and kids can play until their heart is content.
For the most up to date Alabama football gameday information, follow Visit Tuscaloosa.
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