Reser Stadium, home to the Oregon State Beavers, has gone through a big change. I recently got to see the new look after its $161 million remodel. The west side of the stadium got a complete makeover, and it’s pretty impressive.
From what I saw, Reser Stadium 2.0 now offers one of the best fan experiences in college football. There are some cool new features that really caught my eye. The updated stadium has better seating, new food options, and spaces for students to hang out.
I took a good look at what works well and what could be better. It’s not perfect, but it’s a big step up from the old stadium. I even checked out the new urinals – yes, really! Let me tell you about my visit and what you can expect if you go to a game.
Key Takeaways
- The stadium’s $161 million upgrade brings new features for a better fan experience.
- I found improved seating, food options, and student areas in the remodeled west side.
- My review covers the hits and misses, including unexpected details like the new restrooms.
History and Renovation of Reser Stadium
Reser Stadium has changed a lot over the years. I’ve seen it grow from a small venue to a modern football powerhouse. Let me tell you about its journey and recent upgrades.
Evolution of the Stadium
Reser Stadium started as a humble field in 1953. Back then, it was called Parker Stadium. I remember it held just 28,000 fans.
Over time, it got bigger. The east side got a $80 million upgrade in 2005. That was a big deal for Oregon State University.
The stadium got a new name in 1999. It became Reser Stadium after a big donation. I think that was pretty cool of the Reser family.
Recent Renovation Projects
The latest changes to Reser Stadium blow me away. A huge $161 million project just finished up. It took 20 months to complete.
The west side got a total makeover. New seats, fancy suites, and a cool video board. I love the new LED lights too. They make night games look amazing.
One thing that surprised me was the smaller capacity. It’s now around 36,000 seats. But I think the better experience makes up for it.
The new renovations really set Reser apart. I can’t wait to catch a game there soon!
Stadium Capacity and Seating
Reser Stadium has a seating capacity of 35,548. I’ve found that the stadium offers a mix of general and premium seating options. Let’s take a closer look at what you can expect when attending an Oregon State game.
General Seating Information
The stadium’s layout is designed to give fans a great view of the action. I’ve noticed that Section 12 and Section 225 are popular spots for general seating.
The West Side of the stadium is newly renovated and has 8,925 seats. This area really improves the overall fan experience.
I’ve found that the seats are comfortable and provide enough legroom. The aisles are wide, making it easy to move around during breaks.
Premium Seating Options
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If you’re looking for a more luxurious experience, Reser Stadium has you covered. The Toyota Club is a standout option for premium seating.
I’ve been impressed by the Founders Loge, which offers an exclusive viewing experience. These premium areas come with perks like padded seats, in-seat food service, and better sightlines.
The club areas also provide shelter from the weather, which can be a big plus during those chilly Oregon evenings.
Tickets and Seating Policies
Buying tickets for Oregon State football games at Reser Stadium is easy and fun. I’ll explain how to get your hands on tickets and what you need to know about the rules.
How to Purchase Tickets
I love how simple it is to buy tickets for Beavers games. You can get them online through the official Oregon State athletics website. They often have season tickets available too, which is great if you want to catch all the action.
For single games, I usually check a few weeks before. Prices can vary based on the opponent and seat location. I’ve found some good deals on the Toyota Club seats in sections 215-223. These are on the northeast sideline and offer a great view.
If you’re a visiting fan, don’t worry! There’s a special section just for you. It’s always fun to see a mix of team colors in the stands.
User Agreement and Privacy Policy
When I buy tickets, I always make sure to read the fine print. The user agreement covers important stuff like ticket transfers and refunds. It’s not the most exciting read, but it’s good to know your rights as a buyer.
Privacy is a big deal these days. The policy explains how they handle your personal info when you purchase tickets. I appreciate that they take steps to keep my data safe.
Remember, by buying a ticket, you’re agreeing to follow stadium rules. This includes things like what you can bring in and behavior expectations. It’s all about making sure everyone has a great time at the game!
Gameday Experience
Reser Stadium offers plenty to do before and during games. I’ve enjoyed the pre-game festivities and halftime entertainment. The food options are tasty too, with some unique choices.
Pre-Game and Halftime Activities
I love arriving early to soak in the atmosphere on Beaver Street. It’s buzzing with fans and energy before kickoff.
The Occu Family Zone is great for kids. They have fun games and activities to keep little ones entertained.
During halftime, I’m always impressed by the performances. The marching band puts on a great show. Sometimes there are other cool acts too.
I try not to miss kickoff. The roar of the crowd as the team takes the field gives me chills every time.
Food and Concession Stands
The concessions at Reser Stadium have some tasty options. My favorites are:
- Burgers
- Hot dam wings
- Local craft beers
The lines can get long, so I usually grab food early. Prices are typical for a stadium – not cheap, but not outrageous.
I’ve found the quality to be pretty good for stadium food. Everything I’ve tried has been fresh and flavorful.
Pro tip: Try the specialty concession items. They often have unique dishes that showcase local flavors.
Amenities and Facilities
Reser Stadium’s renovation has brought some exciting new features. I’m impressed by the upgraded amenities and improved accessibility. Let’s take a closer look at what fans can expect.
Restroom and Sanitary Facilities
The new west side of Reser Stadium has really stepped up its game with bathrooms. I’m happy to report that they’re clean and plentiful. No more long lines during halftime!
I noticed new restrooms on every level. They’re spacious and well-maintained. This is a huge improvement from the old setup.
For the guys, there are plenty of urinals. This helps keep things moving quickly on busy game days.
Accessibility and Additional Comfort
I’m thrilled to see how much more accessible the stadium has become. There’s a new escalator that makes it easier for everyone to reach the upper levels.
The premium areas are a nice touch. I particularly like The Terrace. It’s an open-air space with comfy seating and fire pits. Perfect for those chilly evening games!
For fans who need extra assistance, there are more elevators and wider walkways. It’s great to see the stadium becoming more inclusive.
I also noticed improved signage throughout the stadium. It’s much easier to find your way around now.
Fan Culture and Community
I love the energy and spirit at Reser Stadium. The fans come together to create an amazing atmosphere. The stadium showcases the strong bond between Oregon State and the local community.
Local Support and University Traditions
I’ve seen how Beaver fans fill Reser Stadium with orange and black on game days. The energy is electric! Students and alumni join together to cheer on the team.
One of my favorite traditions is the fight song. When the band plays “Hail to Old OSU,” everyone stands and sings along. It gives me chills every time.
The tailgating scene is awesome too. Fans gather hours before kickoff to grill, play games, and get pumped for the game. I always stop by to chat with the regulars who’ve been coming for decades.
Art and Symbolism at the Stadium
Reser Stadium has some cool art that celebrates Oregon State’s history. I love the giant beaver sculpture called “Ol’ Chomper” near the entrance. It’s become a popular spot for photos.
Inside, I noticed murals depicting great moments in Beavers football history. The imagery really pumps up the crowd before games.
The stadium design incorporates elements that remind me of Oregon’s natural beauty. Wood accents and earthy tones make it feel connected to the Pacific Northwest landscape.
I think these artistic touches help make Reser Stadium feel uniquely Oregon State. They add character beyond just being a place to watch football.
Campus Integration
The new Reser Stadium brings exciting changes to Oregon State University. It’s more than just a football venue – it’s becoming a central part of campus life. Let’s look at how it affects prospective students and connects with the wider university community.
Influence on Prospective Students
As I toured the new west side of Reser Stadium, I was impressed by the Welcome Center. It’s a smart addition that catches the eye of potential Beavers.
The center gives future students a great first look at OSU. They can learn about programs, see campus views, and feel the school spirit. I think it’s a clever way to mix sports excitement with academics.
College football is a big deal here. The stadium’s new look might sway some students who are on the fence about OSU. It shows the school cares about both athletics and education.
Connection with Oregon State University
I’ve noticed how Reser Stadium is becoming more than just a place for Saturday games. It’s turning into a hub for everyday campus life.
The Student Welcome Center is open all week, not just on game days. Students can hang out, study, or meet friends there. It’s a cool spot that brings people together.
The stadium also houses health services now. This makes it easier for students to get care without going far. I think it’s great how OSU is using the space for more than just sports.
These changes make Reser feel like a true part of Oregon State University. It’s not separate from campus – it’s right in the heart of it.
Parking and Transportation
I found some helpful info about parking at Reser Stadium. There are different parking zones around the stadium with varying prices. Zone 1 costs $40, Zone 2 is $20, and Zone 3 is $15.
If you need accessible parking, Oregon State University offers ADA spots for visitors. I’d suggest contacting them at 541-737-8321 for details.
Don’t want to drive? No problem! There’s a game day shuttle service with three routes. It stops downtown, along 9th Street, and at the Benton County Fairgrounds.
The shuttle costs $5 round-trip for adults, and kids 12 and under ride free. It starts running 3 hours before kickoff and comes every 15 minutes or so.
A few quick tips:
- Arrive early for the best parking spots
- Bring a clear bag for your belongings
- No outside food allowed in the stadium
- Tailgating isn’t allowed in the parking structure
Remember, parking can fill up fast on game days. I’d recommend getting there at least 4 hours early if you want a good spot.
Visitor Impressions and Reviews
I’ve gathered some thoughts from people who’ve been to Reser Stadium. Many visitors say it’s a typical college football experience. The atmosphere is fun and lively, especially for Beavers fans.
Some things to keep in mind:
- Food is pricey
- No outside food allowed
- Clear bags only, no purses
- Arrive early for good parking spots
I noticed that accessibility is important. If you need a handicapped spot, plan to get there about 4 hours before kickoff.
The stadium’s had some recent upgrades. I’m excited to check out the new west side that opened in 2023. It cost $161 million and took 20 months to build.
For visiting fans, there are special sections just for you. Look for sections 211 and 212 if you want to sit with other supporters of the away team.
I’ve heard mixed reviews about the new changes. Some love the upgrades, while others miss the old feel. But most agree it’s still a great place to watch a game.
Frequently Asked Questions
Reser Stadium offers an exciting game day experience with recent upgrades and amenities. Fans have opinions on the views and food options. There are also some rules about what you can bring in.
What’s the overall experience like at Reser Stadium for a game day?
I’ve found that Reser Stadium gives fans a typical football stadium experience. The energy on game day is electric. Fans cheer loudly for the Beavers.
I love seeing everyone decked out in orange and black. The stadium has a fun college atmosphere that’s hard to beat.
How do the amenities at Reser Stadium enhance the spectator experience?
I think the amenities at Reser make watching games more enjoyable. There are plenty of restrooms and concession stands throughout.
The new west side remodel added some great features. I’m impressed by the improved seating and wider concourses.
Are there any recent upgrades to Reser Stadium that fans appreciate?
Yes! The stadium just got a major facelift. I’m excited about the $161 million renovation of the west side.
It added cool new features like premium seating areas and an improved video board. The updates really modernized the whole place.
What are people saying about the view from different sections in Reser Stadium?
I’ve heard mixed reviews about views in Reser. Some fans love the sightlines from the new west side seats.
Others say some sections have obstructed views. It’s best to check seat maps before buying tickets.
What food and beverage options are available during events at Reser Stadium?
There are lots of food choices at Reser. I’ve tried classics like hot dogs and nachos. They also have some local Oregon fare.
Drinks include soda, water, and beer for those of age. The food is pricey, but that’s typical for stadiums.
Are there any specific policies about bringing personal items into Reser Stadium?
Reser has strict policies on what you can bring in. I always use a clear bag to carry my stuff.
No outside food or drinks are allowed. Purses aren’t permitted either. It’s smart to check the stadium website for the full policy before going to a game.
