Vanderbilt

Stadium

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Vanderbilt Stadium

Capacity:
40,550
Country:
United States of America
Address:
Jess Neely Dr, Nashville, TN 37212, United States
Surface:
Fieldturf
Conference:
SEC
Tenant:
Vanderbilt Commodores
Opened:
October 14, 1922
Team:
Vanderbilt Commodores football
Cost:
$1.5 million
($26.2 million in 2022 dollars)
($10.1 million in 1981 reconstruction)
($32.5 million in 2022 dollars)
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 Vanderbilt Commodores, Vanderbilt Stadium is the smallest stadium in the SEC. In 1922, a stadium was constructed on the site of what was known as Dudley Field. It was the first stadium built in the south just for college football. The Commodores played their first game at the stadium on October 14, 1922 against Michigan. With an original capacity of 20,000, the stadium was named after Dr. William Dudley, Dean of the Medical College and football activist.


The first addition to Vanderbilt Stadium occurred before the 1937 season when bleachers were placed in the open end of the horseshoe stadium. Expansions also occurred before the 1949 and 1960 season when additions were completed on the east and west sides of the stadium boosting the capacity to 34,000. Lights were added in 1954 and artificial turf was installed in 1970. The majority of Dudley Stadium was demolished in the early 1980s as part of a $10.1 million construction project of a new stadium on the same site. A one tier grandstand in a horseshoe shape encloses the field. The seating capacity of Vanderbilt Stadium decreased from over 41,000 in the 1980s to just over 39,000 due to the removal of the wooden bleachers in the north end zone in 2004. The bleachers were replaced with a field level concourse. Other than being the home of the Vanderbilt Commodores, the stadium was the home of the Tennessee Oilers (NFL) in 1998. Prior to the 2012 season, the grass field was replaced with Fieldturf, new lights were added to the stadium and a new 50-foot by 72-foot HD video/scoreboard was installed. A grassy berm has been added on the open end of the stadium that provides fans a new perspective of the action of the field. It seats 500 fans and pushes the seating capacity of Vanderbilt Stadium to over 40,000.