Iowa

Hawkeyes

Win the Weekend

Heading to Iowa City, Iowa for a gameday? Dive into our breakdown of what you should do for your upcoming trip.

The University of Iowa is a beacon of brilliance in the heartland, established in 1847. The Iowa Writers’ Workshop has been churning out Pulitzer and Nobel laureates like clockwork, even being recognized as a UNESCO City of Literature. Life in Iowa City is like walking through a novel including the local bar district (Ped Mall) and famous Children’s Hospital. At the heart of it all is the Pentacrest, a verdant expanse housing the state’s original capitol building and the university’s original buildings.

Gameday

The University of Iowa’s football program, known as the Hawkeyes, has a storied history dating back to its inception in 1889. The team is known for its gritty, hard-nosed style of play, embodied by its 1958 and 1960 National Championship teams and by legends like Nile Kinnick, the 1939 Heisman Trophy winner. Hayden Fry, who served as the head coach of the Hawkeyes from 1979 to 1998, is a transformative figure in Iowa Football history. Under his leadership, the Hawkeyes won three Big Ten titles and made 14 bowl game appearances, effectively reviving a program that hadn’t seen a winning season since the early 1960s. But perhaps Fry’s most enduring legacy is his remarkable coaching tree. He mentored a host of future successful coaches, including Bill Snyder, Bob Stoops, and Barry Alvarez. Notably, his former assistant, Kirk Ferentz, has carried on Fry’s winning tradition at Iowa, becoming the longest-tenured head coach in college football.

Ticketing

Every time you use our Ticketmaster, StubHub or TickPick direct links, it’s like tossing a high-five our way with no additional charge for you. You get in the game, and we keep the lights on. It’s a win-win!

Ticketing 101

Like all sporting events, we encourage you to research your seats on a view from my seat.

If you’re a Hawkeye’s fan or neutral attendee, tickets on the (FILL) are best.

Visitors

The Visitor Section fluctuates between (FILL).

Our Ticketing Partners

Finding the right seats at the right price can feel like a game all its own, but we’ve got you covered. We proudly recommend Tick Pick for quick pricing transparency and StubHub for their large inventory.

Parking

Parking 101

Tailgate Traditions

Tailgating 101

The Stadium

Stadium History

Built in 1929 and known originally as Iowa Stadium, Kinnick Stadium was renamed in 1972 to honor Nile Kinnick, the 1939 Heisman Trophy winner and World War II veteran. It underwent a significant renovation in 2006, maintaining its iconic façade while updating the interior with modern amenities, ensuring that this historic venue continues to provide an exceptional game day experience for all Hawkeye fans.

Best Stadium Spots

Best Stadium Food & Drink

What to Watch For

At end of the first quarter, fans, players, coaches exercise the “Hawkeye Wave,” where they turn to wave to patients watching from the nearby University of Iowa Stead Family Children’s Hospital.

Eat, Drink, Stay

Lodging

We keep this show on the road via affiliate partnerships. We’re grateful when you use our links during booking, and there’s no additional cost to you. It’s kinda like buying us a free round of beers. Cheers!

Freshman Budget

When your bank account screams ramen noodles, but your squad’s ready to party. Crash in these wallet-friendly hotels that are sure to create memories while being close to the action.

Young Alumni Budget

When you’ve upgraded to that alumni polo, but aren’t quite swimming in cash. Hotels that balance budget and luxury, perfect for sharing a room with a buddy without sharing a bed.

Lodging

Courtyard by Marriott – Iowa City

Excellent, brand new hotel at the footsteps of Kinnick Stadium with an awesome rooftop patio.

Big Donor Budget

For those who’ve climbed the ladder of success or those who choose to YOLO. Either way, we respect you endlessly.Spoil yourself with luxury and location with these hotels.

Bars & Restaurants

Nothing here yet...

Game Day Apparel

We fuel this road trip with affiliate partnerships. If you’re going to buy merch, we appreciate you visiting these sites below via our affiliate links.

Shopping

Charlie Hustle – Iowa

Amazing quality and great selection of University and NIL swag for the Hawkeyes. Click here for $10 off your purchase.

Shopping

Fanatics – Iowa

Great merch from the likes of Nike, ’47 Brands, Peter Millar & More.

Elevate the weekend. What are we missing?

We need your fan-sourced insights to level up this road trip.

You know your school and town better than we do. Brag about what sets your town, team, and stadium apart. Share your favorite insights and images with us. From hole-in-the-wall bars to tailgate traditions, we want to hear from you. This is a site for the fans by the fans, we need your championship tips.

Iowa

Hawkeyes

Win the Weekend

Gameday