Benson Field at Yulman Stadium is a hidden gem in New Orleans. I recently visited this 30,000-seat venue for a Tulane Green Wave football game and was blown away by the experience. The stadium’s location in the Uptown and Garden District neighborhoods adds to its charm, making it a must-visit for college football fans.
The atmosphere at Yulman Stadium is electric. From the moment I stepped inside, I felt the energy of the crowd and the pride of Tulane fans. The premium seating options, like the Westfeldt Terrace and Glazer Family Club, offer great views of the action. I was impressed by how the stadium blends modern amenities with the rich history of Tulane football.
My visit to Benson Field at Yulman Stadium was more than just a game day experience. It was a chance to see New Orleans in a new light. The stadium has become a key part of the city’s sports scene since opening in 2014. I left feeling like I’d discovered a special place where college football and NOLA culture come together.
Key Takeaways
- Yulman Stadium offers a unique college football experience in the heart of New Orleans.
- The 30,000-seat venue features premium seating options and modern amenities.
- Attending a Tulane game is a great way to experience both football and local culture.
History and Development
Yulman Stadium has a fascinating story of growth and rebirth. The journey from idea to reality involved generous donors, challenges from natural disasters, and a strong commitment to bringing football back to Tulane’s campus.
Inception of Yulman Stadium
I remember when Tulane first talked about building a new stadium. It was exciting! The old Tulane Stadium had been torn down in 1980, and the team played off-campus for years.
The university wanted to bring football home. They planned a 30,000-seat stadium right on campus. It would cost $73 million to build – a big project!
Everyone was buzzing about it. Students, alumni, and football fans in New Orleans couldn’t wait to see it happen.
Contribution of Tom Benson and Richard Yulman
Two key people made the stadium dream come true. Richard Yulman gave $15 million towards building it. He used to own Serta mattresses and wanted to help Tulane.
Tom Benson, who owned the Saints, pitched in too. He and his wife Gayle donated $7.5 million.
I think it’s great how they stepped up. The field is named Benson Field to thank them. And of course, the whole place is Yulman Stadium!
Hurricane Katrina and Rebuilding Efforts
Hurricane Katrina hit New Orleans hard in 2005. It was tough on Tulane and the whole city.
The storm delayed plans for the new stadium. But it also showed how much the university and city needed to rebuild.
I believe the new stadium became a symbol of recovery. It wasn’t just about football – it was about Tulane and New Orleans coming back stronger.
When Yulman Stadium finally opened in 2014, it felt like a big win for everyone.
Stadium Design and Features
Yulman Stadium blends modern amenities with classic New Orleans architecture. I was impressed by its thoughtful design that creates an intimate gameday experience while offering top-notch facilities for fans and players alike.
Architectural Overview
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The stadium’s design, created by Gould Evans & Associates and Lee Ledbetter & Associates, captures the essence of New Orleans. I love how it fits seamlessly into the campus, with its brick and iron exterior matching nearby buildings.
The open-air design allows for great views of the action and the surrounding area. I found the stadium’s layout easy to navigate, with wide concourses and clear signage.
One of my favorite features is the unique canopy over the main seating area. It provides shade and helps keep fans comfortable during hot games.
Seating Capacity and Premium Seats
Yulman Stadium can hold up to 30,000 fans, creating an energetic atmosphere without feeling overwhelming. I’ve sat in various sections, and the sightlines are great from almost anywhere.
The premium seating options really stand out. The Jill H. and Avram A. Glazer Family Club offers 1,500 cushioned seats with access to exclusive amenities. I enjoyed watching a game from here – the food and drink options are top-notch.
For a more affordable upgrade, the Westfeldt Terrace has 3,000 chairback seats with a fantastic panoramic view of the field and campus.
Sustainability and Technology
Yulman Stadium incorporates several eco-friendly features. I noticed LED lighting throughout, which saves energy and provides better illumination for night games.
The stadium uses a high-tech drainage system to manage water runoff efficiently. This is crucial in New Orleans’ rainy climate and helps protect the playing surface.
Wi-Fi coverage is excellent throughout the venue. I had no trouble sharing photos or checking stats during the game. The large video board offers crystal-clear replays and game info, enhancing the fan experience.
Experience for Fans
Yulman Stadium offers fans a great time watching Green Wave football. I found the amenities, premium spaces, and overall setup to be top-notch for enjoying games.
Concessions and Amenities
I was impressed by the variety of food options at Yulman. There are plenty of classic stadium snacks like hot dogs and nachos. But I also found some local New Orleans flavors that really stood out. The jambalaya and po’ boys were delicious.
Drink choices include both alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. I noticed several beer stands with both domestic and craft options. Soft drinks and water are easy to find too.
The restrooms were clean and plentiful. I didn’t have to wait in long lines, even at halftime. There are also plenty of souvenir stands to grab Tulane gear.
Glazer Family Club
The Jill H. and Avram A. Glazer Family Club is a premium space that takes the fan experience up a notch. I found it offers great views of the field in a climate-controlled environment.
The club has upscale food and drink options. I enjoyed items like carved meats and gourmet desserts. There’s a full bar with specialty cocktails too.
Comfortable seating and TVs throughout let you follow the action closely. The club also has exclusive restrooms and concierge service.
Accessibility and Views
I found Yulman Stadium to be very accessible. There are plenty of ramps and elevators for fans who need them. The walkways are wide, making it easy to move around.
The sightlines from most seats are excellent. I had clear views of the field from different sections I tried. The 30,000 capacity feels intimate, so you’re never too far from the action.
The videoboard is large and easy to see. It shows replays and stats to keep fans informed. The sound system is clear throughout the stadium.
Economic and Social Impact
Yulman Stadium has changed Tulane’s campus and New Orleans in big ways. It’s brought money and excitement to the area. Let’s look at how it helps the local economy and makes Tulane sports better.
Boosting Local Economy
The stadium brings lots of visitors on game days. I’ve seen fans fill up nearby restaurants and shops. Hotels get more bookings when there are home games. This means more jobs and money for local people.
Businesses near campus have new chances to make money. They can sell Tulane gear or offer game day specials. I love seeing how the whole area gets busy and alive on game days.
The stadium also creates jobs. People work in concessions, security, and maintenance. These jobs help our community grow stronger.
Promoting University Athletics
Yulman Stadium has made Tulane sports more exciting. I’ve noticed more students going to games and showing school spirit. The 30,000-seat venue gives our teams a real home field advantage.
Better facilities help Tulane recruit top athletes. This makes our teams more competitive. I’m proud to see Tulane getting more attention in college sports.
The stadium brings the community together. Alumni come back for games, strengthening their ties to Tulane. It’s great to see families and friends enjoying time together at the games.
Yulman also hosts events beyond football. This keeps the campus lively year-round. I think it’s wonderful how the stadium has become a central part of Tulane life.
Tulane Green Wave Football Program
The Tulane Green Wave football program has seen a remarkable resurgence in recent years. I’ve watched with excitement as the team has become a force to be reckoned with in college football.
Strategic Importance of the Stadium
Yulman Stadium has been a game-changer for Tulane football. I’ve seen how it’s boosted fan engagement and team morale. The 30,000-seat venue gives the Green Wave a true home-field advantage.
The stadium’s modern amenities attract both fans and recruits. I love how it showcases Tulane’s commitment to athletics. It’s not just a place to watch games – it’s a symbol of the program’s ambition.
Benson Field, named after Saints owner Tom Benson, adds prestige. It connects Tulane football to New Orleans’ rich sports culture.
Recruitment and Performance
I’ve noticed a clear link between Yulman Stadium and Tulane’s improved recruitment. Top high school players are drawn to the impressive facility. It shows them that Tulane is serious about football.
The team’s performance has soared since moving to Yulman. I’ve cheered as they’ve notched big wins and bowl appearances. The Green Wave’s success is creating a buzz around campus and the city.
Coaches can now pitch a complete package to recruits. They offer great academics, a vibrant city, and top-notch football facilities. It’s no wonder Tulane is attracting more talented players each year.
Stadium Operations and Logistics
Yulman Stadium runs like a well-oiled machine on game days. I’ve been impressed by how smoothly everything operates, from getting tickets to enjoying the game safely. Let me share some key aspects of the stadium experience.
Game Day Experience
When I arrive at Yulman Stadium, the atmosphere is electric. The staff are always friendly and helpful. I love how they’ve set up convenient entry points to avoid long lines.
Inside, I find it easy to navigate to my seat. The concession stands offer a variety of tasty options. I’m a big fan of the local New Orleans-inspired dishes they serve.
The Green Wave football games are a blast to watch here. The sight lines are great from almost anywhere in the stadium. The sound system is crisp, so I never miss a play call or announcement.
Ticket Sales and Attendance
I’ve found buying tickets for Tulane games to be a breeze. The online system is user-friendly, and I can usually snag good seats if I plan ahead.
Yulman Stadium holds 30,000 fans, which creates an intimate yet lively atmosphere. I’ve noticed attendance has been growing in recent years. The energy of a packed house is hard to beat!
For big games, I recommend getting tickets early. They can sell out fast, especially for rivalry matchups or when highly-ranked teams come to town.
Safety and Security
I always feel safe at Yulman Stadium. The security team does a thorough job without being intrusive.
There are clear bag policies in place, which helps speed up entry. I appreciate the metal detectors at all entrances – they make me feel secure without causing long delays.
During the game, I see security staff patrolling regularly. They’re always alert but approachable if I need help.
In case of emergencies, there are well-marked exits throughout the stadium. I’ve noticed they also have medical staff on standby, which is reassuring.
Notable Games and Events
Yulman Stadium has seen some incredible moments since opening in 2014. I’ve been lucky enough to witness some unforgettable games and events at this amazing venue.
Historic Matches at Benson Field
One of the most exciting games I’ve seen was Tulane’s 30-13 victory over South Alabama in the stadium’s inaugural game. The energy was electric as fans packed the stands for the first time.
Another standout was when Tulane upset Ole Miss 41-24 in 2021. I couldn’t believe my eyes as the Green Wave dominated an SEC opponent on their home turf.
The 2022 game against UCF was a nail-biter. Tulane clinched the AAC West title with a last-second field goal. I’ve never heard Yulman so loud!
Community and University Events
Beyond football, I’ve enjoyed seeing how Yulman Stadium brings people together. The annual Tulane Family Weekend always packs the stands with students and parents.
I love attending the graduation ceremonies held on Benson Field each spring. It’s inspiring to watch thousands of students celebrate their achievements in such a beautiful setting.
The stadium has also hosted some great concerts. I had a blast at the Green Day show in 2017, which drew fans from all over Louisiana.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yulman Stadium offers various seating choices and amenities for fans. Let’s explore some common questions about the stadium’s features, history, and comparison to other venues.
What are the seating options available at Yulman Stadium?
Yulman Stadium has a total capacity of 30,000 spectators. There are 4,500 premium seats split between two fan clubs – the Westfeldt Terrace and the Jill H. and Avram A. Glazer Family Club.
I find that these premium areas offer a great game-day experience with special amenities. The rest of the seating consists of regular bleacher-style seats throughout the stadium.
What was the capacity of the old Tulane Stadium?
I don’t have specific information about the old Tulane Stadium’s capacity in the search results provided. The current Yulman Stadium replaced the team’s previous off-campus home, but I can’t confirm the exact size of the old venue.
Are there any plans for Yulman Stadium to undergo expansion?
From the information available, I don’t see any concrete plans for expanding Yulman Stadium. The current 30,000-seat capacity seems to be meeting the team’s needs for now.
Does Yulman Stadium serve alcoholic beverages during events?
I don’t have specific information about alcohol service at Yulman Stadium in the search results. It’s best to check the official Tulane Athletics website or contact the stadium directly for the most up-to-date policies on alcohol sales during events.
How does Yulman Stadium compare in beauty to other college football stadiums?
While beauty is subjective, Yulman Stadium has some unique features. The mix of stadium design and local food and drink options makes it stand out.
I think it’s one of the more underrated college football experiences in the country. Its blend of modern amenities and local flavor gives it a special charm compared to other stadiums.
What has been the historical significance of Tulane Stadium in the 1970s?
I don’t have specific information about Tulane Stadium’s historical significance in the 1970s from the search results provided. The current Yulman Stadium opened in 2014, so any events from the 1970s would have occurred at the previous venue.
