Ross–Ade Stadium

Capacity:
57,282
Country:
United States of America
Address:
John R Wooden Dr, West Lafayette, IN 47906, United States
Surface:
Grass
Conference:
Big Ten
Tenant:
Purdue Boilermakers
Opened:
November 22, 1924
Team:
Purdue Boilermakers football
Cost:
$237,500
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.

As a quaint and unique stadium, Ross Ade Stadium has been the home of the Purdue Boilermakers for since the mid 1920s. Before Ross Ade Stadium’s construction, the Purdue football team played at Stuart Field. During the first few decades of the 20th century, Purdue had a very successful football team. David Ross and George Ade, alumni of Purdue University, financially led the way in helping construct a new stadium for the football program in the early 1920s. The stadium was built on land purchased by Ross and Ade.


The Purdue Boilermakers played their first game at Ross Ade Stadium on November 22, 1924 against the Indiana Hoosiers. The stadium originally seated 13,500 fans with seating on both the east and west sides of the playing field. As more fans became interested in the football team, Purdue expanded Ross Ade Stadium. The first addition came in 1930 when 5,000 seats were added in the north end zone. A permanent grandstand on the west side was built prior to the 1949 season increasing the seating capacity to 51,295. One year later a new press box was built on the west side of the stadium. In 1955, permanent stands were built on the east side of Ross Ade Stadium boosting the capacity to 55,500. By 1963, the university lowered the field to add 13 additional rows of seats around the field. The last section of temporary seating was eliminated before the 1969 season when permanent stands were built in the north end zone increasing the seating capacity to 62,500. Since 1969, there have been few changes to Ross Ade Stadium. In 1997 a new video/scoreboard was installed on the south end zone and prior to the 2002 season a new press box on the west side was completed. This expansion also included 34 luxury suites and 200 club seats. Today a one tier grandstand in a horseshoe shape encloses the field. Additional bleachers are located at the south end zone where the main scoreboard is. Unlike many other stadiums in college football, Ross Ade Stadium has always had a natural grass field. In June 2014 Purdue announced it would remove 6,100 bleacher seats from the south endzone before the start of 2014 season. This area was be repurposed and decreased the seating capacity of Ross Ade Stadium to 57,282. Before the start of the 2017 season lights were added to the stadium at a cost $6.5 million allowing the Boilermakers to play at night.