It may still feel like summer, but OSU football season is here! The Ohio State Buckeyes kick off the 2018 season this Saturday September 1. There are plenty of way to enjoy the game even if you don’t have a ticket. If you are new to the city or this is your first time experiencing a big game day, we have a list of links of tips and tricks to enhance your experience.
Ohio Stadium is 411 Woody Hayes Drive, Columbus, OH 43210
614-292-6330
OSU has a line up of A-Z info about attending the game at the Shoe.
This includes parking information, location of restrooms, auto assistance and other services. So that you aren’t caught off guard, review their bag policy and a list of prohibited items that are not allowed inside Ohio Stadium (such as large cameras, tripods, portable tvs, firearms, noisemakers etc.)
Getting to the Game or OSU Campus Area
On game day, select streets on and around campus become one way. Do NOT rely upon GPS or Navigation devices to get you to Ohio Stadium. Upon completion of the game, the traffic patterns will be reversed. Traffic control officers will direct you. Guests with parking passes must follow the directions on their reverse side of their parking pass.
Campus may be accessed from exits on SR-315 north and south and I-71 north and south. Please note along these routes for available exits as exit availability may be adjusted due to construction.
Parking at the stadium is very limited and open only to handicapped parking and cars with OSU parking permits. Many local churches or organizations open their lots and charge to park. Please be wary and follow all traffic signs and parking enforcement if parking on the street because the local tow trucks are more than happy to tow you while you are watching the game. Because of the popularity, parking can become a challenge and is recommended you give yourself a few hours before kick off to secure a spot. There is plenty to do around the campus area while you wait.
Or avoid trying to park and handle the traffic by hopping on the bus. COTA offers express shuttle services from the Crosswood Park and Ride and the Ohio State Fairgrounds, directly to to Neil & 17th just a block away from the stadium.
Most of the restaurants are open Saturday to cheer on the Buckeyes, check out this article from Experience Columbus for a guide to delicious Game Day Grub!
If you enjoy hosting your own party, consider the Tailgate Club; the official tailgate services of the Ohio State Buckeyes. Reserve your space in Coffey Road Park, steps away from the stadium. Cook on site or take advantage of their catering services.
Need something to wear? Plenty of stores in the University District carry game day gear so you can display your Scarlet and Grey pride. Also check out The Buckeye Corner, Conrads College Gifts, College Traditions, and Across the Field Store.
And as a disclaimer; Not every is a football fan.* If you have no desire to watch the game or take in the festivities, we highly recommend that you avoid the Stadium and University District if at all possible! Parking, restaurants and local business are devoted solely to the game and are always busy. Check the times of the game when it starts and ends to avoid any traffic jams. This also applies to surrounding areas such as Upper Arlington, Grandview Heights, The Short North and the Lennox Town Center. The upside is many local attractions away from the University District (the zoo, malls, museums) experience lighter traffic on game day and are great for visiting without a crowd.
We hope you have a great time enjoying the start of football season! GO BUCKS
*Joe Jackson is a proud OSU alumni and Buckeye fan while the author of this article enjoys other things besides football but hope you have a great time at the game anyway.
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