Rice-Eccles Stadium Review: A Fan’s Cozy Home for Utah Football

Rice-Eccles Stadium is a sports fan’s dream in Salt Lake City, Utah. I’ve been to many college football games there, and the atmosphere is electric. The stadium sits on the University of Utah campus, offering stunning views of the Wasatch Mountains.

Rice-Eccles Stadium can seat over 51,000 fans and hosts exciting Utah Utes football games. I love the steep seating that gives everyone a great view of the action. The big video board keeps you in the loop with replays and stats.

Getting tickets is easy, and there are lots of food options inside. I always grab a hot dog and soda before kickoff. The crowd gets super loud, especially during big plays. It’s a fun place to spend a Saturday afternoon in the fall.

Key Takeaways

  • Rice-Eccles Stadium offers amazing mountain views and an electric gameday atmosphere
  • The steep seating and big video board give fans a great view of Utah Utes football games
  • Tickets are easy to get and there are plenty of food options for a fun Saturday outing

History and Overview

Rice-Eccles Stadium has a long and storied past. It’s been the home of the University of Utah football team for nearly a century. The stadium has changed a lot over the years, growing alongside the university.

Stadium Evolution

Rice-Eccles Stadium first opened way back in 1927. Can you believe it’s almost 100 years old? I think that’s amazing! At first, it was called Ute Stadium and could only fit about 20,000 fans.

Over the years, the stadium got bigger and better. In 1972, they added more seats and named it after Robert L. Rice. Then in 1998, it got a huge makeover for the 2002 Winter Olympics. That’s when they added “Eccles” to the name.

Today, Rice-Eccles can hold over 51,000 screaming fans. It’s got comfy seats, great food, and an awesome view of the mountains. I love watching games there!

University of Utah Legacy

Rice-Eccles isn’t just a stadium – it’s the heart of the University of Utah. I’ve seen so many exciting moments there over the years. It’s where the Utes football team plays all their home games.

The stadium has hosted some big events too. Did you know the 2002 Winter Olympics had their opening and closing ceremonies there? So cool! It’s also been the stage for concerts, graduations, and other community events.

For students and alumni, Rice-Eccles is like a second home. It’s where we come together to cheer, celebrate, and make memories. I think it really shows how important sports and community are to the University of Utah.

Visitor Experience

Rice-Eccles Stadium offers a mix of comfort, views, and amenities for fans. I found the stadium welcoming for all ages, with plenty to see and do. Let’s take a closer look at what you can expect when visiting.

Seating Comfort and Views

I was impressed by the seating options at Rice-Eccles Stadium. Most seats provide good views of the field, especially in sections E34 and E36. I found the seats comfortable enough for a few hours of game time. The stadium’s design allows for clear sightlines from almost anywhere.

One thing to note is the sun. Depending on the time of day, it can be bright in some sections. I suggest bringing sunglasses and a hat for day games.

The upper levels offer sweeping views of the surrounding mountains. It’s a nice bonus to the game-watching experience.

Concourse Amenities

The concourse areas are well-designed for easy movement. I noticed plenty of food and drink options, with short lines at most stands. Restrooms are clean and plentiful.

There are several merchandise shops where I picked up some team gear. The staff was friendly and helpful.

One cool feature is the display of Utah football history along the walls. It’s fun to browse during halftime.

Family-Friendly Features

I found Rice-Eccles Stadium to be great for kids. There’s a family restroom on each level, which is super convenient.

The stadium offers a kid-friendly menu at select concession stands. I saw options like smaller hot dogs and juice boxes.

During some games, there’s a kids’ zone with interactive activities. It’s a nice way to keep little ones entertained if they get restless.

The aisles are wide enough for strollers, making it easier to navigate with young children. Overall, I felt the stadium does a good job of catering to families.

Games and Events

Rice-Eccles Stadium hosts exciting football games and fun concerts. I’ve been to both types of events and can share what it’s like. The atmosphere is always electric, no matter what’s happening on the field or stage.

Utah Utes Football Games

I love going to Utah Utes football games at Rice-Eccles Stadium. The energy is amazing! The stadium holds over 51,000 fans, and it gets loud. The “UTAH” chant echoing through the stands gives me chills every time.

I always try to get there early for tailgating. The parking lots fill up with fans grilling and playing games. It’s a great way to get hyped before kickoff.

Inside, I grab some food from the concession stands. My favorite is the California burrito. Then I find my seat and get ready for some Pac-12 football action.

Concerts and Special Events

Rice-Eccles Stadium isn’t just for football. I’ve seen some awesome concerts there too. The sound quality is surprisingly good for an outdoor venue.

One of the biggest shows coming up is Luke Combs in May 2024. I can’t wait! Country music under the stars with thousands of other fans sounds perfect.

The stadium has also hosted Olympic events. There’s even an Olympic cauldron on display. It’s cool to think about the history while I’m there for a modern event.

Ticketing Information

Getting tickets to watch the Utah Utes play at Rice-Eccles Stadium is easy and fun. I’ll share the key details about season passes and single-game tickets to help you plan your visit.

Season Pass Details

I love the perks of having a season pass! It gives me access to all regular season home games. For the 2024 season, prices start at $718. That’s a great deal considering the number of games I get to see.

Season ticket holders often get special benefits too. These may include:

  • Better seat selection
  • Discounts on merchandise
  • Invites to exclusive events

I find it’s a great option if I plan to attend most home games.

Single-Game and Event Purchasing

When I want to catch just one game, single-game tickets are the way to go. I can buy these in a few ways:

  • Online at utahtickets.com
  • By phone: 801-581-UTIX (8849)
  • In person at the ticket offices

The Rice-Eccles Box Office is open Monday to Saturday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. It’s located southwest of the tower in the Gallery Building.

Prices vary depending on the game and seat location. I always check early for big rivalry matches as they tend to sell out fast!

Seating Options

Rice-Eccles Stadium offers a variety of seating choices. I’ve found that fans can pick from basic general seating or upgrade to premium options for added comfort and perks.

General Seating

The stadium has plenty of general seating areas. I like the sideline sections for their great views of the field. Rows in these areas give a highly desired sideline viewing perspective. I’ve sat in Section W7 before and had an awesome view of the action.

Most general seats are bleacher-style, which can get a bit uncomfortable during long games. I recommend bringing a seat cushion if you’re in these areas. The seats near midfield offer good views, but they fill up fast.

For day games, I try to grab seats on the east side. They’re in the shade longer, which is nice on hot days.

Premium Seating

If you want extra comfort, premium seating is the way to go. I love the chairback seating in sections S47-S51. These seats are cushioned and have backs, making them much cozier for long games.

The stadium also has suites and loge boxes. These come with perks like indoor areas, private restrooms, and food service. I’ve been in a suite once, and the experience was top-notch.

For a unique view, check out the new ledge seats. They’re right above field level in the South Endzone. I haven’t tried them yet, but I’ve heard they offer an incredible perspective of the game.

Stadium Amenities and Services

Rice-Eccles Stadium offers a range of amenities to make game day enjoyable. From tasty food options to team gear and helpful staff, the stadium aims to meet fans’ needs.

Food and Beverages

I love the variety of food choices at Rice-Eccles. They have classic stadium fare like hot dogs and nachos, but also some local favorites. I always grab a slice of pizza from the concession stands – it’s surprisingly good for stadium food!

The new Ken Garff Red Zone added even more food options. I’ve tried the BBQ there and it hit the spot during a chilly game.

Drink-wise, they offer the usual sodas and bottled water. For adult beverages, there are a few beer gardens around the stadium. The lines can get long at halftime, so I try to time my snack runs carefully.

Merchandise and Vendors

I never leave without checking out the team store. It’s packed with Utah Utes gear – everything from t-shirts to signed memorabilia. The prices are a bit high, but that’s typical for stadium shops.

On game days, I’ve noticed extra vendor carts set up around the concourse. They sell things like foam fingers and face paint. It’s fun to see all the fans decked out in red.

Some local businesses also set up booths occasionally. I once got a free sample of a local energy drink there. It’s neat to see the community involvement.

Accessibility and Assistance

I’m impressed with how Rice-Eccles Stadium handles accessibility. There are elevators and ramps for easy movement between levels. The staff is always ready to help anyone who needs assistance.

I’ve seen wheelchair seating areas throughout the stadium. They seem to offer good views of the field. Assistive listening devices are available too, which is great for inclusivity.

The employees are friendly and knowledgeable. Anytime I’ve had a question, from finding my seat to locating the nearest restroom, they’ve been quick to help. It makes the whole experience much more enjoyable.

Accessibility

Rice-Eccles Stadium offers several features to make game day enjoyable for all fans. I’ve found the staff to be helpful and accommodating. Let me share what I know about getting to and around the stadium.

Parking and Transportation

Rice-Eccles Stadium has ADA parking stalls in every lot on campus. I love that fans with disabilities can park in any lot for free during home games if they have an ADA placard. It’s first-come, first-served, so I suggest arriving early.

For those who prefer public transit, the stadium is right next to a TRAX light rail station. I find this super convenient, especially when traffic is heavy on game days.

If you’re driving, there’s a handy map of accessible parking spots on the university website. I always check it before heading to a game.

Stadium Entry and Navigation

The stadium gates open 90 minutes before kickoff, giving plenty of time to get settled. I’ve noticed wheelchair accessible entrances at various points around the stadium.

Inside, the concourse is wide and easy to navigate. There are elevators to reach upper levels. I’m impressed by the number of accessible seating options throughout the stadium.

Restrooms and concession stands are designed with accessibility in mind. I’ve seen low counters at food vendors, which is great for wheelchair users.

Pre-Game and Tailgating

Tailgating at Rice-Eccles Stadium is a big part of the Utah Utes football experience. Fans come early to enjoy food, drinks, and socializing before the game starts.

Tailgating Culture

I love the tailgating scene at Rice-Eccles Stadium. It’s a great way to get pumped up for the game. Fans arrive up to two hours before kickoff to set up their spots. I’ve seen everything from simple coolers and folding chairs to elaborate setups with TVs and grills.

The atmosphere is electric. People wear their red Utes gear and chat about the team’s chances. I’ve made some good friends just by walking around and joining in conversations.

Food is a big deal at these tailgates. Fans bring burgers, hot dogs, and local favorites. I’ve tasted some amazing homemade chili and barbecue.

Rules and Regulations

While tailgating is fun, there are some rules to follow. Tailgating is allowed in all campus parking lots, but you need a parking pass. I recommend getting one early, as they can sell out fast.

Parking close to the stadium costs more, but it’s worth it for the convenience. In 2020, spots right next to Rice-Eccles were $100, while general parking further away was $50.

The university has some strict policies. No glass containers are allowed. Open flames are only permitted in designated areas. I always make sure to clean up my area before heading into the game.

Alcohol is allowed, but be responsible. Public intoxication can get you kicked out before the game even starts.

Climate and Environmental Factors

Rice-Eccles Stadium’s location on the East Bench of Salt Lake City creates unique weather patterns. The stadium’s elevation and proximity to the mountains influence game day conditions for players and fans alike.

Weather Considerations

I’ve noticed that weather can be quite unpredictable at Rice-Eccles Stadium. In the early season, it’s often hot and sunny. I love how the bright Utah sun warms the stands. But as fall progresses, it can get chilly fast. I always bring layers just in case.

Wind can be a factor too. I’ve seen some crazy gusts swirl through the stadium. It’s fun to watch how it affects long passes and kicks. Snow is rare during the season, but when it happens, it’s magical. The white-capped mountains make a beautiful backdrop.

Stadium at the East Bench

The East Bench location gives Rice-Eccles some perks. I find the views of the Wasatch Mountains breathtaking. The stadium sits at about 4,657 feet above sea level. This high elevation can impact visiting teams not used to the thin air.

Being on the bench, the stadium is a bit removed from downtown. I like how this creates a distinct college atmosphere. The area around the stadium is less crowded and easier to navigate on game days.

Interestingly, the East Bench is often a few degrees warmer than the valley floor. This can make early and late-season games more comfortable for us fans.

Frequently Asked Questions

Rice-Eccles Stadium offers a variety of amenities and experiences for visitors. I’ve gathered some key details about food, seating, parking, and more to help you plan your visit.

What are the food options available at Rice-Eccles Stadium during events?

The stadium has a wide range of food choices. I’ve seen classic stadium fare like hot dogs, nachos, and popcorn. There are also some local Utah specialties available.

Vendors sell beverages including soda, water, and beer at most events. The concession stands are spread throughout the concourse areas for easy access.

Can you bring water bottles into Rice-Eccles Stadium for a concert or football game?

From what I know, the stadium allows sealed, clear plastic water bottles up to 1 liter in size. I always check the event policies before going, as rules can change.

Empty reusable bottles are usually okay too. There are water fountains inside where you can fill them up.

What are the seating options and views like at Rice-Eccles Stadium?

The stadium has a mix of bench and chair-back seating. I’ve found the views to be pretty good from most areas.

Lower bowl seats are closest to the action. Upper deck seats offer a great overhead view of the whole field. Some sections have better sightlines than others for concerts.

Where is the best place to park when attending an event at Rice-Eccles Stadium?

I usually park in one of the lots near the stadium. There are several options within walking distance. Prices can vary based on the event.

Public transit is another good choice. The TRAX light rail has a stop right by the stadium. It’s convenient and helps avoid traffic.

Are there any recommended hotels nearby Rice-Eccles Stadium for event-goers?

There are a few hotels within a mile or two of the stadium. I’ve stayed at places along 400 South and found them convenient.

The University Guest House is super close, right on campus. Downtown Salt Lake City hotels are also good options, just a short drive or light rail ride away.

How does the overall atmosphere at Rice-Eccles Stadium compare during concerts and football games?

Football games have a lively, school spirit vibe. I love seeing all the red Utah Utes gear and hearing the marching band. The crowd gets really into cheering for big plays.

Concerts feel more laid-back but still energetic. The setup changes to focus on the stage. Sound quality is generally good, though it can echo a bit in some spots.

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