Keenan

Stadium

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Keenan Stadium

Capacity:
51,000
Country:
United States of America
Address:
104 Stadium Dr, Chapel Hill, NC 27514, United States
Surface:
Astroturf
Conference:
ACC
Tenant:
North Carolina Tar Heels
Opened:
November 27, 1927
Team:
NorthCarolina Tar Heels football
Cost:
$303,000
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.

Home of the North Carolina Tar Heels, Kenan Stadium is oftentimes called one of the most beautiful college football stadiums in the country. In the mid 1920s, a new stadium for the North Carolina football program was needed to replace the 2,400 seat Emerson Field. By 1926, donations were accepted in order to build a new facility. After only raising a small portion of what it would cost to construct a stadium, William Rand Kenan Jr. made a significant contribution. He provided financial support to build a new stadium to honor his parents, therefore the stadium was named Kenan Stadium. Construction began in November 1926 and was completed in 1927.


The Tar Heels played their first game at Kenan Stadium on November 27, 1927 against Davidson College. The stadium originally had a capacity of 24,000. However in the 1950s, Kenan gave an additional $1 million for a second deck to be constructed. The upper deck was built in 1963, increasing the capacity to 48,000, the first of many expansions. Additional expansions came in 1979, 1988, 1997 and 1998 bringing the capacity to 60,000. In 2007 a $2 million scoreboard was installed along with the construction of the Kenan Football Center that houses the Hall of Honor, locker rooms and the Carolinas Football Program. In May 2010, UNC approved construction of the $70 million Carolina Student Athletic Center. This facility replaces the Kenan Field House and provides an academic center, strength and conditioning center, and visitors locker room. Completed by Fall 2011, the expansion also turned Kenan Stadium into a bowl stadium with the addition of nearly 3,000 seats in the endzone, named the “Blue Zone.” In 2018 the metal bleachers throughout the stadium were removed and replaced with individual “Carolina Blue” seats, reducing the seating capacity to 51,000. Prior to the start of the 2019 season the natural grass playing field was replaced with synthetic grass.