Notre Dame Stadium

Capacity:
80,795
Country:
United States of America
Address:
2010 Moose Krause Cir, Notre Dame, IN 46556, United States
Surface:
Fieldturf
Conference:
Independent
Tenant:
Notre Dame Fighting Irish
Opened:
October 4, 1930
Team:
Notre Dame Fighting Irish football
Cost:
$750,000
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.

Notre Dame Fighting Irish football is a program full of success and legacy with 11 national titles and seven Heisman Trophy winners plays at a stadium, Notre Dame Stadium, that is full of history and tradition. The long and storied history of Fighting Irish football at Notre Dame Stadium dates back to October 4, 1930 when the team battled SMU during the first game at the facility.


Notre Dame Stadium was built to replace Cartier Field, a 30,000 seat facility that opened in 1889. A new stadium was deemed necessary with the success of the team leading to sold out games at Cartier Field. Coach Knute Rockne was instrumental in getting a new stadium constructed. Osborn Engineering led the design of the $750,000 stadium, patterned after Michigan Stadium, and in late 1929 construction began. Original capacity was 54,000 as the one tier grandstand enclosed the field. Throughout its over eight decade existence, Notre Dame Stadium has only had one main addition. Prior to the 1997 season, the stadium was expanded to seat 80,795 fans. Nearly 21,000 seats were added along the top rim of the stadium. In addition, the first three rows of seats were eliminated, a new grass field was installed, new scoreboards were placed above the rim of the stadium in the north and south end zones and a new three tier press box was built. The grass field was replaced with Fieldturf in 2014.


In January 2014 Notre Dame unveiled plans for its $400 million Campus Crossroads Project at Notre Dame Stadium. This project included the addition of three nine-story buildings on the east, south and west sides that directly ties into the stadium. Totaling 750,000 square feet, these buildings include club levels, indoor and outdoor club seats and space that serves nonathletic purposes including classrooms, a music library and media center. A new 96 x 54 foot HD video board was added in the south endzone. The scoreboard in the north end zone was removed, giving fans a better view of the “Touchdown Jesus” mural. All of the bleachers were removed and replaced with new vinyl-clad blue benches. The width of each seat was widened by two inches, decreasing the overall capacity of Notre Dame Stadium to 80,795. Additional upgrades were completed around the stadium including upgrading the sound system, concourses, restrooms and concession areas. The entire project at Notre Dame Stadium was completed by the 2017 season.


Notre Dame Stadium remains one of the most unique stadiums in college football with its brick exterior and location on the Notre Dame campus in South Bend, IN. Located above the north endzone is one of the most iconic features in college football, a piece of art nicknamed, “Touchdown Jesus.” Located in the Hesburgh Library, this 134 foot tall The World of Life mural looms over the endzone at Notre Dame Stadium. A trip to this historic and iconic stadium is a must for any college football fan. The stadium hosted its first hockey game in 2019 as the NHL Winter Classic between the Chicago Blackhawks at Boston Bruins was played at Notre Dame Stadium on January 1, 2019.