Huntington Bank Stadium

Capacity:
50,300
Country:
United States of America
Address:
420 23rd Ave SE, Minneapolis, MN 55455, United States
Surface:
Fieldturf
Conference:
Big Ten
Tenant:
Minnesota Golden Gophers
Opened:
September 12, 2009
Team:
Minnesota Golden Gophers football
Cost:
$288.5 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.

After a quarter century of Golden Gophers football games indoors at the Metrodome, games are now played outside in the elements at Huntington Bank Stadium. From 1982 until 2008, the Golden Gophers played at the multipurpose Metrodome, sharing it with the Minnesota Twins (MLB) and Vikings (NFL). The Golden Gophers played for 57 seasons at Memorial Stadium before moving to the Metrodome in downtown Minneapolis. With an aging stadium and the opening of the Metrodome, university officials moved the Golden Gophers away from Memorial Stadium. Although the Metrodome allowed the Golden Gophers to play at a NFL stadium, it lacked the atmosphere of an outdoor stadium. Furthermore, the Metrodome was off-campus and provided little revenue for the university.


By 2000, the University of Minnesota began studying the idea to build a new stadium for its football program. An initial proposal called for a shared stadium for the Golden Gophers and the Minnesota Vikings. This idea was scrapped because of problems over design and management of the stadium. In December 2003, the university unveiled plans for a new stadium to be built on the campus, near the site where Memorial Stadium was once located. Two years later, in 2005, TCF Financial Corporation bought the naming rights for $35 million over 25 years. It was renamed Huntington Bank Stadium after Huntington Bancshares purchased TCF Bank in 2021. Construction of Huntington Bank Stadium began in July 2007. The $288.5 million stadium has a seating capacity of 50,300 that is expandable up to 80,000. Huntington Bank Stadium features 39 luxury suites, 59 loge boxes and 300 indoor seats. It has a traditional college football stadium look with its horseshoe shaped grandstand that is open on the west end. The 48 feet high by 180 feet wide HD video/scoreboard is located here. Through the open west end, fans can see the campus of the University of Minnesota and the skyline of Minneapolis. The Golden Gophers opened a new chapter in their history on September 12, 2009 when they played their first game at Huntington Bank Stadium against the Air Force Falcons. For two seasons (2014 & 2015) Huntington Bank Stadium was home to the Minnesota Vikings (NFL) as US Bank Stadium was constructed on the same site the Metrodome was located.