Utah

Utes

Win the Weekend

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

Salt Lake City, where the University of Utah stands tall, ready to school you on what college life’s all about. Established in 1850, the U of U is not just an academic powerhouse; it’s the place where innovation meets elevation. Nestled at the foothills of the Wasatch Mountains, this campus has got views that’ll make you swoon and a history that’ll make you think. ou won’t find a traditional bar district here, but the city’s downtown is filled with craft breweries, gastropubs, and vibrant nightlife that echoes the eclectic spirit of the university. If you’re a history buff, check out Temple Square for a taste of Utah’s heritage.

Gameday

Since joining the Pac-12 in 2011, the Utes have made their mark with gritty defense, hard-hitting plays, and a never-say-die attitude. Legends like Alex Smith and Steve Smith Sr. have graced the Utah turf, and Coach Kyle Whittingham? The man’s a defensive wizard. From Fiesta Bowl victories to beating Alabama in the Sugar Bowl, Utah football is a force, including winning 2021 and 2022 Pac-12 Championships before moving to the Big XII.

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 Utah or neutral attendee, tickets on the (FILL) are best. The student section, better known as “The MUSS” (Mighty Utah Student Section), is in the southeast corner, primarily sections S1-S7. It’s an absolute madhouse of choreographed noise and coordinated red—plan on standing the entire game if you’re anywhere near it.
The best bang for your buck is in the upper bowl corners, specifically sections W10, W12, E30, or E32. You get a panoramic view of the entire field and the stunning mountain backdrop without the sticker shock of the sideline seats.
Pro-Tip (Views & Cover): For a day game, the west side (W sections) is your only hope for shade later in the afternoon. The stadium is a modern bowl, so there are no real obstructions, but the south endzone jumbotron is massive, making the north endzone seats an underrated spot for replays.

Visitors

The official visitors’ sections are usually tucked away in the southeast corner, typically sections S8, S9, and parts of S10. Honestly, unless you travel with a massive crew, ditch the visitors’ section—grab seats in the North Endzone for a more electric atmosphere and a better view of the whole field.

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

Downtown TRAX station

For an easy exit, park at a downtown TRAX station for free and ride the train right to the stadium’s front door—you’ll thank me when you’re flying past standstill traffic.

Parking to Avoid:

Absolutely avoid trying to find street parking in the residential neighborhoods east of the stadium. It’s all permit-only, the tow trucks are ruthless, and you’ll get stuck in an impossible traffic jam trying to navigate the narrow streets after the final whistle.

Tailgate Traditions

Tailgating 101

The main hub for serious tailgating is the Guardsman Lot, just southeast of the stadium—it’s a sea of RVs and hardcore fans who’ve been there since sunrise. The Eccles Tennis Center lot is a bit more relaxed, with a mix of alumni and families getting their pregame on.

Guardman Lot

This is the epicenter of Utes tailgating, a sprawling lot filled with die-hards, smokers, and generations of fans. It’s loud, proud, and smells like victory (and grilled meat). This is the spot if you want to see the most committed Ute fans in their natural habitat.

Ute Walk at the Eccles Football Center

About 2.5 hours before kickoff, the team walks from the hotel through a massive spirit rally outside the football facility. It’s a more organized, family-friendly scene with the band, cheerleaders, and Swoop the mascot. Go here for pure, unadulterated school spirit.

Frat Row (Woltcott Ave)

If you’re a college student or just want to feel like one again, take a stroll down Wolcott Ave. It’s a classic college party scene with house parties spilling onto lawns. Just act like you belong and you can probably snag a free hot dog and a red cup.

The Stadium

Stadium History

Rice-Eccles Stadium, the Utes’ fortress, is where college football and Salt Lake City’s unique character collide. With a capacity of 45,807 roaring fans, it’s a cauldron of excitement, especially after a big renovation in 1997 that turned this place into a modern marvel. Rice-Eccles played a starring role in the 2002 Winter Olympics, hosting the Opening and Closing Ceremonies. Situated at an altitude of 4,637 feet, it gives the Utes a home-field advantage that’s quite literally above the rest. Rice-Eccles Stadium is named in honor of two prominent figures in Utah’s history: Robert L. Rice and George S. Eccles. Robert L. Rice was a former University of Utah football player and a long-time supporter of the university’s athletic programs. George S. Eccles was a prominent businessman and philanthropist in Utah.

Best Stadium Spots

Stadium History: This place was built on the bones of the old stadium for the 2002 Winter Olympics, where it hosted the opening and closing ceremonies. That Olympic legacy gives it a grand, historic feel you won’t find at many other college stadiums.
Must-See Inside: First, find the Olympic Cauldron at the south end of the stadium—it’s the actual torch from the 2002 games and a killer photo op. Second, check out the Utes’ retired jersey numbers displayed on the stadium facade; it’s a quick history lesson on the legends who played here.

Best Stadium Food & Drink

Ute Taters: Go to the “State Street Taters” stand. They’re basically fresh-cut fries loaded with toppings like pulled pork or chili cheese—the perfect football food. R&R BBQ: This is a legit local BBQ joint that has stands in the stadium. Get the pulled pork sandwich; it blows standard stadium fare out of the water. Gourmet Hot Chocolate: If it’s a late-season game and the temperature drops, find one of the specialty stands. It’s ridiculously rich and a lifesaver in the mountain cold.

What to Watch For

After every Ute touchdown, look for the “Crazy Lady” on the video board—a season ticket holder who goes nuts with a signature dance. On third downs, the entire stadium gets on its feet and makes a “U” with their hands. And listen for the “U-T-A-H” chant that echoes from one side of the stadium to the other throughout the game.

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.

Lodging

Fairfield Inn & Suites – Salt Lake City

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

Marriott – Salt Lake City, University Park

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.

Lodging

Hyatt Regency – Salt Lake City

Bars & Restaurants

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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

Fanatics – Utah

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.

Utah

Utes

Win the Weekend

Gameday