Boone Pickens Stadium is a must-see for college football fans. I visited this Oklahoma State University landmark and was blown away by its size and energy. The stadium can hold up to 60,000 fans, making it one of the biggest in the Big 12 Conference.
Walking into the stadium, I felt the excitement in the air. The bright orange seats and giant video boards caught my eye right away. The field looked perfect, like a green carpet ready for action.
Game day at Boone Pickens is something special. The crowd gets loud, and the atmosphere is electric. I loved seeing all the fans decked out in orange and black. It’s clear why this place is such a big deal for OSU students and alumni.
Key Takeaways
- Boone Pickens Stadium holds 60,000 fans and offers an exciting college football experience
- The stadium features bright orange seats, giant video boards, and a perfectly maintained field
- Game days are filled with energy, passionate fans, and a lively atmosphere
Stadium Overview
Boone Pickens Stadium is a top-notch college football venue with a rich history and great atmosphere. It’s been improved a lot over the years and sits in a cool small town setting.
History and Renovation
I’ve seen Boone Pickens Stadium change a lot since it opened as Lewis Field back in 1919. The biggest changes came after 2003 when T. Boone Pickens donated $165 million – the most any college athletic department had ever gotten! They used that money to make the stadium way bigger and better.
Now it can hold 60,000 fans, which is amazing. I love the new west end zone they added. It has fancy suites and a giant video board. The whole place looks so much more modern now.
Location and Atmosphere
I think Boone Pickens Stadium has one of the best atmospheres in college football. It’s right in the heart of Stillwater, Oklahoma – a classic small college town. On game days, the whole place comes alive with Cowboy spirit.
The stadium sits right on campus, so it’s easy for students to get to. I always have a blast on Homecoming weekend when the town is extra lively. The crowd gets super loud, especially when we play big rivals. Even though it’s in a small town, the energy inside feels like a much bigger venue.
Stadium Features
Boone Pickens Stadium has some awesome features that make game day exciting. I love checking out all the different seating options and grabbing some tasty food while I’m there.
Seating and Capacity
The stadium can hold up to 60,000 fans, which creates an amazing atmosphere on game days. I’ve found the seating options are really varied. There are three tiers of seating, with the 10’s level being closest to the field. This area has mostly bleachers, but it’s super exciting to be that close to the action.
The 100 level is a bit higher up but still gives a great view. I like that there are entry tunnels at the top and bottom of these sections, making it easy to get to your seat. Some areas have seat backs, which I find more comfortable for long games.
The student section is always lively, adding to the stadium’s energy. I’ve noticed the West End Zone seats are popular too.
Club and Suites
For a more luxurious experience, the stadium offers club seating and suites. These areas provide a great mix of comfort and prime views of the field. I’ve been lucky enough to visit a suite once, and the amenities were top-notch.
The club level has cushioned seats and access to indoor areas. It’s perfect if you want to escape the weather or grab a quick snack without missing much of the game.
Suites are even fancier, with private seating areas and catering options. They’re great for groups or if you’re looking to impress clients.
Food and Concessions
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The food options at Boone Pickens Stadium are pretty diverse. I always look forward to trying different things when I go to games. There are standard stadium fare like hot dogs and nachos, but also some more unique options.
Beer and wine are available for those who want to enjoy a drink during the game. I’ve even spotted espresso for caffeine lovers. The variety of food vendors means there’s usually something for everyone.
I recommend checking out different concession stands around the stadium. Some areas have shorter lines or special items you might not find elsewhere. Just remember that prices can be a bit high, as with most stadiums.
Game Day Experience
Game day at Boone Pickens Stadium is a thrilling event. The energy is electric as fans come together to cheer on the Oklahoma State Cowboys. I’ve had some amazing experiences here that I’m excited to share.
Tailgating and Pre-Game
I love arriving early to soak in the pre-game atmosphere. The tailgating scene is fantastic, with fans grilling, playing games, and getting pumped for kickoff. Orange is everywhere – in clothing, decorations, and even face paint.
The area around the stadium buzzes with activity. I often stop by Eskimo Joe’s, a popular spot just a block away. Their cheese fries are a must-try pre-game snack.
As game time approaches, I join the sea of orange flooding into the stadium. The excitement builds as we find our seats, ready for Cowboys football.
During the Game
Once inside, the atmosphere is electric. The roar of the crowd is deafening when the Cowboys take the field. I love watching the band and cheer squad pump up the fans.
The stadium offers great views from most seats. I’ve sat in different areas and always felt close to the action. The renovated west end zone is particularly impressive.
On sunny days, it can get pretty hot in the stands. I make sure to bring a hat and sunscreen. The passionate fans keep the energy high throughout the game, win or lose.
Accessibility
I’m happy to report that Boone Pickens Stadium is quite accessible. There are handicapped parking spaces available on game days.
Inside, I’ve noticed wheelchair seating areas with good views of the field. Elevators make it easier to reach upper levels. The staff is always helpful in assisting those with special needs.
Restrooms and concession stands are well-distributed, minimizing long waits. Overall, the stadium layout makes for a comfortable experience for fans of all abilities.
Visitor Information
Boone Pickens Stadium offers great facilities for visitors. I’ll share key details about parking, safety, and nearby attractions to help you plan your visit.
Parking and Transportation
I found that parking near Boone Pickens Stadium can be tricky on game days. The closest lots fill up fast. I recommend arriving early to snag a good spot. If you don’t mind a short walk, there are cheaper options a few blocks away.
Public transit is limited, but there’s a game day shuttle service. I’ve used it before and found it convenient. It picks up from several spots around Stillwater.
For those flying in, the nearest airport is about an hour away in Oklahoma City. You’ll need to rent a car or use a ride-sharing service to get to the stadium.
Safety and First Aid
I’m always impressed by the safety measures at Boone Pickens Stadium. There are first aid stations on every level. I’ve seen staff respond quickly to any issues.
The stadium follows industry-leading safety standards. Security checks are thorough but move quickly. I suggest arriving a bit early to avoid long lines.
In case of emergencies, there are clearly marked exits. The staff is well-trained and always ready to help.
Nearby Attractions
Stillwater, Oklahoma is a charming college town with plenty to see. I love exploring the Oklahoma State University campus before games. It’s beautiful and full of history.
For food and drinks, “The Strip” on Washington Street is my go-to. It’s packed with great bars and restaurants. Try some local BBQ – it’s amazing!
If you’re into nature, Lake Carl Blackwell is just a short drive away. It’s perfect for fishing or a picnic before the game.
Stadium Administration
Boone Pickens Stadium has a well-organized system for running game days. The staff works hard to keep everything in top shape. They also try to make sure fans have a good time.
Policies and Regulations
I found out that Oklahoma State University Athletics has some rules for the stadium. They don’t allow outside food or drinks. Bags have to be clear and small. No smoking is allowed anywhere in the stadium.
They sell beer at games now. But you have to show ID and can only buy two at a time. Season ticket holders get some perks. They can enter early and have special parking spots.
The press box has strict rules too. Only people with passes can go in. Reporters have to follow a dress code.
Facilities and Maintenance
I’m always impressed by how clean Boone Pickens Stadium is. The staff does a great job keeping it nice. They repaint the field before each game. The FieldTurf playing surface is top-notch.
The lighting system is super bright for night games. It makes the action easy to see. The steel and concrete structure feels solid and safe.
They update things often. A few years ago, they put in a huge new video board. It’s one of the biggest in college football.
Staff and Customer Service
I’ve had good experiences with the stadium staff. They’re friendly and helpful. Ushers are great at showing you to your seat. Concession workers move the lines quickly.
Security does a good job keeping everyone safe. They check bags carefully but are polite about it. If you have a problem, guest services is easy to find.
The ticket office staff is knowledgeable. They can answer questions about different seating options. On game days, there are lots of people around to help if you need anything.
Post-Visit Reflection
I had an amazing time at Boone Pickens Stadium! The atmosphere was electric, and I’m so glad I went. The reviews I read beforehand were spot-on about how impressive it is.
I went to a Sunday afternoon game, which was perfect. The weather was great, and the stadium wasn’t too crowded. I noticed the attendance was still pretty good, even for a non-conference game.
One thing that surprised me was how friendly everyone was. From the staff to the other fans, I felt really welcome.
The facilities were top-notch. Clean restrooms, plenty of food options, and comfortable seating made for a great experience.
I’m seriously thinking about getting season tickets now. The excitement of game day is something I want to experience more often.
My favorite part was definitely the student section. Their energy was contagious, and I found myself cheering along with them.
If you’re a football fan, I highly recommend visiting Boone Pickens Stadium. It’s a fantastic place to watch a game and soak in the college football atmosphere.
I can’t wait to go back. Next time, I might try sitting in a different section to get a new perspective on the field.
Frequently Asked Questions
Fans often have questions about Boone Pickens Stadium. I’ve gathered some common queries to help you plan your visit and make the most of your game day experience.
What items are permitted inside Boone Pickens Stadium?
Boone Pickens Stadium allows clear bags up to 12″ x 6″ x 12″ in size. I can also bring in small clutch bags no larger than 4.5″ x 6.5″. These rules help keep everyone safe while still letting me bring essentials.
Is there a variety of food available at Boone Pickens Stadium during games?
Yes, I can find many food options at the stadium. There are stands selling classic game day fare like hot dogs, nachos, and popcorn. Some local restaurants also have spots in the concourse, giving me a taste of Stillwater flavors.
Can fans purchase alcoholic beverages while at Boone Pickens Stadium?
As of my last visit, alcohol sales were not available to the general public at Boone Pickens Stadium. This policy might change, so I’d suggest checking the official website for the most up-to-date info before game day.
What are the seating options like at Boone Pickens Stadium?
The stadium offers a mix of seating choices. I can pick from regular bleacher seats, chair-back seats in some sections, or even premium seating options. The renovations have made it a top-notch facility with great views from most spots.
How does the east and west orientation of Boone Pickens Stadium affect game play?
The east-west layout can impact games, especially during sunset. Players might deal with glare during late afternoon kickoffs. As a fan, I might want to bring sunglasses if I’m sitting on the east side during these games.
Are there any family-friendly amenities at Boone Pickens Stadium?
Yes, the stadium caters to families. I’ve seen kid-friendly concession options and family restrooms. During some games, there might be special areas with activities for younger fans. It’s a great place to introduce kids to college football.
