As a sports fan, I’ve had the chance to visit many stadiums, but SECU Stadium in College Park, Maryland stands out. Home to the University of Maryland Terrapins, this venue hosts football, lacrosse, and other exciting events. From its unique design to the electric atmosphere on game day, SECU Stadium offers a memorable experience for sports enthusiasts and casual fans alike.
I was impressed by the stadium’s layout. One side has typical stadium seating, while the other boasts a five-story building housing team offices and locker rooms. The brick exterior adds a classic touch to the modern facility. Inside, the energy is contagious, with passionate fans cheering on the Terrapins.
My visit to SECU Stadium was fun and easy. The staff was helpful, and I found plenty of food options. While some seats have slightly obstructed views, most offer a great view of the action. Whether you’re a die-hard Terps fan or just looking for an exciting outing, SECU Stadium is worth checking out.
Key Takeaways
- SECU Stadium’s unique design blends traditional seating with modern facilities
- The electric atmosphere makes for an exciting game day experience
- Most seats offer good views, but it’s wise to check for any obstructions when booking
Overview of SECU Stadium
SECU Stadium is a great place to catch Maryland Terrapins games. I love how it blends modern amenities with the team’s rich history. The stadium’s design and size really add to the exciting atmosphere on game days.
History and Significance
SECU Stadium has been the home of the University of Maryland Terrapins since it opened. I think it’s cool how the stadium got its current name in 2022 when SECU, Maryland’s largest credit union, bought the naming rights.
Before that, it was called Maryland Stadium and Capital One Field at Byrd Stadium. The original Byrd Stadium opened way back in 1950. It’s neat to think about all the memories made here over the decades.
The stadium is super important to Terps fans. It’s where we cheer on our football team and other sports too. I always feel a sense of pride when I’m there, surrounded by fellow Maryland supporters.
Stadium Capacity and Structure
SECU Stadium can hold a ton of people – around 54,000 fans! I love how the large lower bowl of seating gives most folks a great view of the action. There’s more seating along both sidelines too.
Most seats are bleacher-style without backrests. If you want a comfier spot, aim for the sections with chair-back seats. They’re a bit easier on the back during long games.
One cool feature is the 5-story building on one side. It houses team offices, locker rooms, and more. The brick exterior looks great and fits in well with the campus.
The big scoreboard is awesome for catching replays. Just be aware some seats might have a slightly obstructed view of it. But overall, I think the layout gives fans a fun game-day experience.
Getting to the Stadium
SECU Stadium is easy to reach, with plenty of parking options and a central location on campus. I’ll cover the best ways to get there and how the stadium connects to the rest of the university.
Parking and Transportation
I found several parking choices when visiting SECU Stadium. There are parking lots and a garage near the stadium. I recommend buying a parking pass in advance – it saved me time and hassle.
The stadium is about 16 miles north of downtown Washington DC. I noticed traffic can get heavy on game days, so I like to arrive early.
Public transit is another good option. The College Park Metro station isn’t far from campus. From there, I usually catch a shuttle bus to the stadium.
Campus Connectivity
SECU Stadium sits near the center of the University of Maryland campus. I love how this makes it easy to explore the rest of the university before or after games.
The stadium’s central location means it’s a short walk from many campus buildings and dorms. I’ve found this creates a lively atmosphere on game days, with students and fans mingling all around.
There are plenty of signs to help you find your way. I’ve never had trouble getting to my seat or finding other campus landmarks from the stadium.
Tickets and Seating Information
I’ve got all the details you need to plan your visit to SECU Stadium. From buying tickets to choosing the best seats, I’ll guide you through the process and help you make the most of your experience.
How to Purchase Tickets
I recommend starting your ticket search on the official Maryland Athletics website. They offer a user-friendly platform where you can browse available seats and purchase tickets online. Season tickets are a great option if you’re a die-hard fan. They give you access to all home games and often come with extra perks.
If you’re looking for single-game tickets, I suggest checking out third-party sites too. Sometimes you can find better deals there, especially for less popular games.
Don’t forget to keep an eye out for special promotions or discounts. Students, faculty, and alumni often get special rates.
Seating Options and Views
SECU Stadium offers a variety of seating options to suit different preferences and budgets. The lower level seats are closest to the action, giving you an up-close view of the game. I love sitting here to feel the energy of the players and crowd.
For a broader view of the field, I recommend the upper deck. You’ll get a great overview of plays developing. The open end zone seats are fun too, especially if you want to catch those exciting touchdown moments.
The Mezzanine Seating area is considered the best in the house. It includes sections M20-M28 along the south sideline. You’ll get chairback seats, complimentary food and drinks, and covered seating.
Visitor’s Guide to Stadium Seating
If you’re a visiting fan, I suggest looking for seats in sections 24-25. These are typically reserved for the away team’s supporters. It’s always fun to cheer with fellow fans!
The visitor sideline offers a great view of your team’s bench. You’ll be able to see all the sideline action up close.
For budget-conscious visitors, the bleacher seats are a good option. They’re more affordable but still offer a decent view of the game.
Remember to check the stadium seating chart before buying tickets. It’ll help you understand exactly where you’ll be sitting and what kind of view to expect.
Lastly, I recommend arriving early to find your seats and get settled. This way, you won’t miss any of the pre-game excitement!
Game Day Experience
Going to a Maryland Terrapins football game at SECU Stadium is exciting. The energy and fun start before kickoff and continue through the final whistle.
Pre-Game Activities
I love arriving early to take part in the tailgating scene. The parking lots fill up with fans grilling food and playing games. It’s a great way to meet other Terps supporters.
Many fans wear red and white to show their team spirit. I always grab some Maryland gear from the campus bookstore before heading to the stadium.
Inside, I like to walk around and check out the concession stands and team stores. There are lots of food options to choose from. The stadium starts to buzz as more fans arrive and find their seats.
Entertainment and Half-Time Shows
The marching band puts on an awesome pre-game show on the field. Their formations and music really pump up the crowd.
During breaks in the action, there are fun contests and games on the big video board. I’ve seen t-shirt tosses, dance cams, and trivia challenges to keep fans engaged.
The half-time show is always a highlight. The band performs again, often with a cool theme or routine. Sometimes there are special performances by other groups too.
Community Engagement
SECU Stadium does a great job bringing the community together. Local youth sports teams often get to play on the field before the game.
The university honors hometown heroes and campus leaders during timeouts. It’s nice to see them get recognized.
Many games have themes to support different causes. I’ve been to military appreciation and breast cancer awareness games. Fans really get into the spirit of these events.
Stadium Amenities
SECU Stadium offers a range of amenities to make game day enjoyable. I’ve found the food, drinks, and accessibility options to be pretty good overall. Let me share some details about what you can expect.
Concessions and Local Eats
The concessions at SECU Stadium offer plenty of tasty options. I love that they showcase Maryland flavors. You’ll find classics like hot dogs and nachos, but also local specialties.
Crab cakes are a must-try. The Old Bay seasoning gives them a true Maryland kick. For a quick bite, I recommend the pit beef sandwiches. They’re tender and flavorful.
Lines can get long at peak times. I suggest hitting the concession stands early or during quieter moments in the game. The main concourse has the most options. But don’t overlook the smaller stands – they often have shorter waits.
Beverage Options
SECU Stadium has a good mix of drink choices. Soda fans will find all the usual suspects. But I’m more excited about the local options.
Maryland craft beers are well-represented. Look for brews from Flying Dog and Heavy Seas. If you’re in the fancy seats, you might even get in-seat drink service.
For non-alcoholic options, I love the fresh-squeezed lemonade. It’s perfect on a hot day. Water stations are also available if you want to stay hydrated for free.
Accessibility and Accommodations
I’m happy to report that SECU Stadium takes accessibility seriously. Wheelchair seating is available throughout the stadium. These spots offer good views of the field.
The elevators and ramps make it easy to move between levels. Accessible restrooms are clearly marked and available on all levels.
For those with hearing impairments, assistive listening devices are available. Just ask at guest services. The stadium also offers a sensory room for fans who might need a quiet space during the game.
Safety and Regulations
SECU Stadium takes safety seriously. They have rules and security measures to keep fans safe and comfortable during events. Let’s look at what you can expect.
Security Measures
When I visited SECU Stadium, I noticed private security guards at entrances and around the venue. They checked bags and used metal detectors. I felt safe knowing they were watching out for any issues.
The stadium has emergency plans too. If something happens, they’ll use the speakers and video boards to tell everyone what to do. It’s good to know they’re prepared.
I saw cameras all around. They help keep an eye on things and can spot problems quickly.
Venue Policies
SECU Stadium has some rules to follow. I learned that alcohol isn’t allowed in or out of the stadium. They’re strict about this – you could get kicked out if you try to bring it in.
For comfort, I saw many fans bring stadium chairs. These are okay, but there might be size limits. It’s best to check before you bring one.
Ladies, take note – there are rules about purse sizes. Small ones are usually fine, but big bags might not be allowed in.
The stadium has community guidelines too. They want everyone to have fun and be respectful. Bad behavior can get you in trouble or even kicked out.
Spectator Reviews
I’ve heard lots of thoughts from fans and experts about SECU Stadium. People have strong opinions on the seats, views, and overall experience.
Fan Feedback
I’ve seen many fans praise the stadium on TripAdvisor. They love the energy during games. Some say the seats near the sidelines give an amazing view of the action. I’ve noticed a few complaints about railings blocking views in certain sections.
One fan told me about sitting in Section 25, Row G. They had a great view from midfield behind the Maryland sideline. That seems like a prime spot to watch the game!
Attendance can vary, but big games really pack the place. I’ve heard the crowd noise can be intense.
Professional Critiques
Sports writers I’ve read generally like SECU Stadium. They praise its modern design and amenities. Some note it lacks the history of older college venues.
A few critics mention issues with crowds entering and exiting. I’ve seen suggestions to improve traffic flow on game days.
Reviewers often highlight the big scoreboard. It’s visible from most seats, though some spots have a partially blocked view.
The press box gets good marks for sight lines and working conditions. Overall, pro reviews tend to be positive about the stadium experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
I’ve got the inside scoop on SECU Stadium for you. Here’s what you need to know about seating, capacity, food, parking, and more.
What are the best seating options for an optimal view at SECU Stadium?
For the best view, I recommend sitting at least 7 to 10 rows up from the field. The first row is only one and a half feet above the field, which can make it hard to see if you’re not tall.
On one side, you’ll find regular stadium seats. The other side has a 5-story building with extra perks.
How many spectators can SECU Stadium accommodate?
I don’t have exact info on the stadium’s capacity. But it’s big enough to host major college football games and other events.
Are there any food and beverage options available at SECU Stadium?
Yes! I’ve tried the food and drinks at SECU Stadium. They’re pretty good. If you have questions, the staff is helpful and knowledgeable.
What are the parking facilities like at SECU Stadium?
From what I’ve seen, parking is easy to find. The stadium is set up for easy access in and out. It’s great for tailgating before the game too!
Can fans purchase alcoholic beverages inside SECU Stadium?
I don’t have clear info on alcohol sales inside the stadium. It’s best to check their current policy before you go.
What amenities and features make SECU Stadium stand out?
SECU Stadium is home to the University of Maryland Terrapins. They play football, lacrosse, and other sports here.
The 5-story building on one side is cool. It has team offices, locker rooms, and more. It adds a unique touch to the stadium setup.
