Williams-Brice

Stadium

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Williams-Brice Stadium

Capacity:
80,250
Country:
United States of America
Address:
1125 George Rogers Blvd, Columbia, SC 29201, United States
Surface:
Grass
Conference:
SEC
Tenant:
South Carolina Gamecocks
Opened:
1934
Team:
South Carolina Gamecocks football
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.

Where can you go to pregame in a caboose and hear the theme song from “2001: A Space Odyssey”? That would be the home of the South Carolina Gamecocks, Williams Brice Stadium. A tradition that dates back to the early 1980s, the playing of “2001: A Space Odyssey” as the Gamecocks run onto the field may not sound impressive but it is as 80,000 fans are on their feet screaming. Nicknamed “the Cockpit,” Williams Brice Stadium has been the home to the South Carolina football program since 1934. In the early 1930s, discussion began on the possibility of building a new stadium for the football team. Built with federal funds, a new stadium was built by the 1934 season. The Gamecocks began playing at the stadium then known as Carolina Municipal Stadium on September 23, 1934 against Erksine. The stadium had a capacity of 17,600 when it opened.


Since its opening in 1934, there have been several significant expansions, many coming in the 1970s. Before the 1970 season, over 14,000 seats were added and Astroturf was installed. These renovations were possible because of $2.5 million left by the estate of Mrs. Martha Williams Brice. Because of her large donation, the stadium was named in her honor. An additional expansion occurred before the 1972 season, when the capacity of the stadium was increased to nearly 54,000, with the addition of the west side upper deck. Ten years later, the capacity grew to 72,400, when the east stands were constructed. Before the 1995 season, $9.9 million was spent on the west side of the facility; luxury suites, club seats and a new press box were constructed. One year later, the $13.5 million south end zone project was completed. This added new club areas and the upper deck. A new 26 foot high by 124 foot high HD video/scoreboard replaced the existing one in 2012. Today Williams Brice Stadium is a massive stadium with a seating capacity of just over 80,000. Future plans call for an upper deck to be added in the north endzone, increasing the seating capacity to 88,000. The Gamecocks have one of the best stadiums in the nation to play football and have some of the best tailgating areas at any college football stadium. Since the stadium is not near the central campus it has a 52 acre landscaped tailgating area that features the Garnet Way, a pathway that the team walks through as they enter the stadium. One of the most unique tailgating areas is the Cockaboose Railroad. Here 22 cabooses have been retrofitted into the ultimate tailgate areas for fans.