Ben Hill Griffin

Stadium

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Ben Hill Griffin Stadium

Capacity:
88,548
Country:
United States of America
Address:
157 Gale Lemerand Dr, Gainesville, FL 32611, United States
Surface:
Grass
Conference:
SEC
Tenant:
Florida Gators
Opened:
October 27, 1930
Team:
Florida Gators football
Cost:
$3 million
Our Reminder on Things to Do for the Best Experience
  1. Buy Tickets in Advance: Secure your tickets well in advance to get the best seats and avoid last-minute hassles. Check for additional Parking Passes. Check security requirements possibly no bags, or clear bags only?
  2. Arrive Early: Give yourself plenty of time to arrive at the stadium before the game starts. This will allow you to find parking, navigate the stadium, and soak in the pre-game atmosphere.
  3. Check the Schedule: Know the game schedule, as well as any pre-game events, tailgating parties, or fan experiences that might be happening on that day.
  4. Parking: Research parking options in advance, and consider using rideshare services or public transportation to avoid parking headaches.
  5. Dress Comfortably: Wear comfortable clothing and shoes, as you might be walking around a lot.
  6. Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
  7. Bring ID and Tickets: Make sure to have your ID and tickets ready for security checks and entry into the stadium.
  8. Explore the Stadium: Take some time to explore the stadium, including its various levels and amenities.
  9. Try Local Food: Check out the food and beverage options within the stadium. Many stadiums offer local cuisine and unique food items.
  10. Capture Memories: Take photos to capture the memories. The stadium's design and the energetic crowd make for great photo opportunities.
  11. Respect Fan Etiquette: Respect the fans around you, regardless of which team they're supporting. Engaging in good sportsmanship enhances the overall experience.
  12. Follow Security Guidelines: Be aware of the stadium's security guidelines and cooperate with security personnel for a smooth entry process.
  13. Plan for Post-Game Traffic: Consider that traffic leaving the stadium can be heavy after the game ends. Have a plan for transportation after the event.
  14. Visit the Team Store: Check out the team store for merchandise and souvenirs to commemorate your visit.
  15. Download Apps: If the stadium has an official app, download it for real-time updates, interactive experiences, and information about the event.
  16. Respect Local Laws: Familiarize yourself with local laws and regulations to ensure a trouble-free experience.
  17. Weather Preparedness: Check the weather forecast and dress accordingly if the game is outdoors or has an outdoor component.
  18. Check for COVID-19 Guidelines: Stay updated on any COVID-19 related protocols or guidelines.
  19. Enjoy the Atmosphere: Immerse yourself in the excitement of being at a live game, cheer with fellow fans, and create lasting memories.

Here come the Gators, is just one of the many traditions found at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium, nicknamed “the swamp” and located on the campus of the University of Florida. The history of the football program at the university began in 1906 when the team played at Fleming Field. As fan support grew, a new stadium was needed for the Gators by the 1920s. Florida President John Tigert led the effort to drive construction for a new facility. On April 16, 1930, construction on the stadium began and was completed by October 27, 1930. The following week, on November 8, 1930, Florida battled Alabama as Florida Field was dedicated. It originally had a seating capacity of 21,769 and its name, Florida Field, was in honor of servicemen who lost their lives in World War I. The original section of seating now encompasses the lower half of the current stadium. By 1950, the first of many additions to the stadium was in the works and by the start of the 1950 season, 10,000 bleachers were built on the west side. The Gators hosted their first night game at Florida Field on September 23, 1950.


Fifteen years later, an additional 10,000 seats were added to the east side and bleachers were constructed on the south end zone bringing the capacity to 62,800. In 1971, the grass field was replaced with Astroturf, but two decades later the surface returned to grass. The south end zone with a skybox and a press box was completed, increasing the capacity of Florida Field to 72,000. In 1989, the stadium was named Ben Hill Griffin Stadium at Florida Field, after Ben Hill Griffin, a lifelong fan of the Gators and donor to the University of Florida. A $17 million addition in the north end zone increased the capacity to the stadium to 83,000 in 1991. Before the start of the 2003 season, a $50 million expansion of the press level was completed. This project expanded the press box, added 2,900 club seats and 34 luxury suites. Ben Hill Griffin Stadium is now the largest stadium in the state of Florida with a capacity of just over 88,548. Various levels of seating enclose the playing field. New HD video/scoreboards were added in 2009 replacing the existing in the north and south endzones. Outside the stadium are three statues of Florida’s three Heisman Trophy Winners. Unveiled in April 2011, the statues are of Steve Spurrier, Tim Tebow and Danny Wuerffel. In June 2016 the university renamed the field at the stadium, Steve Spurrier-Florida Field at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium after the winningest coach in program history.


The Florida Gators have had years of success at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium, including a 30 game winning streak between 1994 and 1999. Ben Hill Griffin Stadium is one of the most formidable venues for opposing teams to play at, as the stadium is one of the loudest in the nation and the temperature on the field often reaches 100 degrees.