How to Visit Huntington Bank Stadium
How to Visit Huntington Bank Stadium
By Caitlin Hannah
Huntington Bank Stadium brings as many as 50,000 college football fans to the college's Minneapolis campus every fall. When it opened in 2009, the Golden Gophers' horseshoe-shaped home field became the first Big Ten debut since 1960 and the only LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design)-certified stadium in the country.
No wonder why the Vikings played there while its own U.S. Bank Stadium was being built. Here's how you can make the most of a visit to one of the league's most beautiful outdoor venues....
The Golden Gophers' marching band lines up outside Huntington Bank Stadium / University of Minnesota
WHERE TO PARK
There are a number of surface parking lots surrounding the stadium, and many are popular spots to tailgate before a game. A number of parking ramps are scattered throughout campus and located within walking distance of the stadium.
Many local restaurants in the area also offer complimentary shuttles if you choose to dine before or after an event. Ride share services are available at designated pick-up and drop-off locations outside the stadium.
Bike racks are located outside the arena. The stadium is also located along the light rail public transit line, making it very easy to utilize public transportation.
A stadium full of Gopher fans / Credit: Gopher Sports
WHAT TO EXPECT
College football in the fall is always a popular event for sports fans. The excitement of a new season, the chill in the air, and the excitement of college football is in the air. Get in on the fun by tailgating in one of the many tailgate lots or join a pregame party hosted by the University at McNamara Alumni Center before you head inside the stadium. Before kickoff, watch the incredibly talented University of Minnesota Marching Band perform, catch the exciting hype video on the Jumbotron and watch the team (and Coach PJ Fleck!) charge onto the field.
Be sure to keep an eye out for antics from the team's beloved mascot, Goldy Gopher and catch the talents of the popular spirit squad and team, on the sidelines, too.
Stub and Herbs
WHAT TO EAT
Fans gather before games at pep fest to find local food trucks or grab an order of State Fair-style cheese curds.
Pre-gamers can also stroll through Dinkytown and surround themselves with fellow Gopher fans at campus landmark Stub & Herbs, which has been open since 1939. Grab a group of friends and enjoy Tater Tot nachos, fried pickles, or order the fish and chips made with Schell’s beer.
The Market at Malcolm Yards
Other Dinkytown favs include Sally’s Saloon, Afro Deli, Wally’s Falafel, and Annie’s Parlour. Just a short ride away along the lightrail is Surly and its enormous patio, O'Shaughnessy Distillery Co., and the popular food hall Malcolm Yards.
Or you can just arrive hungry and warm up with a cup of wild rice soup or chili right at the stadium.
Graduate Minneapolis
WHERE TO STAY
There are several hotels within or near the University of Minnesota campus. Many offer lodging packages with discounted parking, lodging, or complimentary shuttles if you are visiting Huntington Bank Stadium.
Find popular chains like Hilton Garden Inn, Courtyard by Marriot, or the boutique Graduate Minneapolis that features local history and school pride throughout its design.
ACCESSIBILITY
For information regarding accessible options at Huntington Bank Stadium, please visit its resource page.
Check out our complete guide to Minnesota sports.
Caitlin Hannah is Explore Minnesota's senior digital social strategist. When traveling around the state, she likes spending time near the water, hiking, antique shopping, trying new restaurants, and watching hockey.