I recently visited SHI Stadium, home of the Rutgers Scarlet Knights, and I’m excited to share my experience with you. This iconic venue offers a blend of rich football history and modern amenities that make for a great game day atmosphere. As I walked into the stadium, I felt the buzz of excitement from fellow fans and couldn’t help but be impressed by the storied history of Rutgers football.
The stadium’s layout is well-designed, with clear views of the field from various seating areas. I found the upper level seats especially good, offering a great vantage point to see all the action. The energy on game day is infectious, with the crowd’s cheers echoing throughout the venue.
One thing that stood out to me was the easy access to food and restrooms. I didn’t have to miss much of the game when I needed a snack or a quick break. The staff was friendly and helpful, which added to the overall positive experience.
Key Takeaways
- SHI Stadium blends historic significance with modern comforts for an enjoyable game day
- Upper level seats offer excellent views of the entire field
- Convenient amenities and friendly staff enhance the fan experience
History and Significance
SHI Stadium holds a special place in college football history. I’m excited to share how this venue connects to the sport’s origins and Rutgers University’s rich athletic tradition.
Birthplace of College Football
When I visit SHI Stadium, I can’t help but feel the weight of history. It’s built on the same grounds where the first college football game ever was played back in 1869. Rutgers beat Princeton 6-4 that day, kicking off a sport that would become an American institution.
The game looked very different then. It was more like soccer than today’s football. But that historic match laid the foundation for everything that followed.
I love how SHI Stadium honors this legacy. There are displays and memorials that remind fans of the site’s importance. It’s amazing to watch games where it all began over 150 years ago.
Rutgers University Legacy
SHI Stadium carries on Rutgers’ proud football tradition. The Rutgers Scarlet Knights have called it home since 1994. It’s where the team battles Big Ten rivals and creates new memories.
The stadium has grown with the program. It started smaller but now fits over 52,000 fans. I’ve seen how expansions have added more seats and better facilities over the years.
It’s not just for football either. The men’s and women’s lacrosse teams also play here. SHI Stadium is truly the heart of Rutgers athletics.
When I attend games, I feel connected to generations of Rutgers fans. The stadium brings the university community together to cheer on their teams and celebrate their history.
Stadium Overview
I’ve got the scoop on SHI Stadium’s layout and features. This place has some cool seating options and neat stuff to check out on the concourses. Let me fill you in on what I’ve seen.
Seating and Capacity
SHI Stadium can hold a big crowd. It’s got a full lower bowl and two upper levels along the sidelines. I think the best seats are near midfield in sections 104-106 and 125-127. They give you a great view of all the action.
The lower level has tunnels near row 10 in most sections. It’s pretty easy to get in and out. I’ve noticed there’s some premium seating at the top of the east side sections too.
If you’re in the upper levels, don’t worry. I sat in section 206 once and could see the whole field just fine. It’s the first row of the upper level, right on the 28-yard line.
Concourse Features
« SECU Stadium Review: A Fan-Friendly Experience in College Park
The concourses at SHI Stadium are pretty nice. I’ve found them easy to walk around and not too crowded. There are plenty of food stands and bathrooms, so you won’t have to go far for either.
I like how they’ve got some Rutgers football history displays set up. It’s cool to learn about the school’s long football tradition while you’re there. Did you know Rutgers played in the first college football game ever back in 1869?
The upper level concourse is especially good. It’s open and airy, with great views of the campus. I always grab a snack up there and enjoy the scenery before heading back to my seat.
Game Day Experience
Going to a football game at SHI Stadium is a blast! There’s so much to see and do beyond just watching the action on the field. Let me tell you about some of the fun things I’ve experienced on game days.
Tailgating Scene
I love arriving early to tailgate before Rutgers games. The parking lots around SHI Stadium fill up with fans grilling, playing games, and getting pumped for kickoff.
There’s a great community feeling as everyone decks out in scarlet. I’ve made friends with the regular tailgaters in my lot. We often share food and swap predictions for the game.
For big matchups, the energy is electric. Fans start arriving super early to claim prime spots. The smell of burgers and hot dogs fills the air. It’s the perfect way to get in the gameday spirit before heading into the stadium.
Marching Band and Entertainment
Once inside, I’m always impressed by the pregame show. The Rutgers marching band puts on an amazing performance. Their formations and music get me fired up for kickoff.
Throughout the game, the band keeps the energy high. They play fight songs after big plays and touchdowns. I love singing along with the crowd.
The dance team and mascot also add to the fun. They perform during timeouts and keep fans engaged. I’ve gotten some great pictures with the Scarlet Knight mascot over the years.
Special Events and Fireworks
Rutgers goes all out for special game days. I’ve seen some incredible halftime shows with guest performers. For night games, they often put on an impressive fireworks display after the final whistle.
They also do fun theme nights and giveaways. I’ve gotten free t-shirts and rally towels at games. For rivalry matchups, the atmosphere is extra intense.
Win or lose, I always have a great time at SHI Stadium. The game day experience keeps me coming back season after season to cheer on the Scarlet Knights.
Getting There and Parking
Reaching SHI Stadium and finding a spot for your car can be tricky, but I’ve got you covered. I’ll share some handy tips on bus services and parking options to make your game day experience smoother.
Bus and Shuttle Services
I love using the bus and shuttle services when heading to SHI Stadium. Rutgers offers free shuttle buses on game days, which is super convenient. These buses pick up fans from various campus locations and drop them off right at the stadium entrance. I’ve found the service to be reliable and frequent.
For those coming from further away, NJ Transit buses are a good option. They have routes that stop near the stadium. I always check their schedule online before game day to plan my trip.
Parking Options
Parking at SHI Stadium can be a bit of a challenge, but I’ve learned some tricks. On-site parking is available, but it fills up fast. I usually aim to arrive early to snag a spot. The stadium has several lots, with prices varying based on location.
If I can’t get on-site parking, I look for street parking. There are metered spaces near Rutgers College Avenue Campus. These cost $1.50 per hour and have a maximum limit of 8 hours.
For fans with special needs, there are limited handicapped spaces in the Jersey Mike’s Arena Lots. I’d recommend calling the Rutgers Ticket Office to reserve these spots.
Ticketing and Membership
Getting tickets to see Rutgers play at SHI Stadium is easy and fun. There are options for everyone, whether you want to come to one game or the whole season. I’ll explain how to get tickets and some great deals for groups.
Season Passes and Single Game Tickets
I love the flexibility of ticket options at SHI Stadium. If you’re a big fan like me, season passes are the way to go. You get a seat for every home game and sometimes extra perks. I’ve found the process simple – just pick your seats online or call the box office.
For casual fans or if you can only make it to one game, single game tickets work great. I’ve grabbed these a few times when friends visit. Prices change based on who Rutgers is playing, but there are usually good seats available.
Special Discounts for Families and Groups
Taking the family to a game is so much fun! SHI Stadium offers some nice family ticket packages. I’ve used these before and saved money on tickets, plus sometimes you get extras like food vouchers.
For bigger groups, like when I went with my work buddies, group rates can really cut costs. Usually, you need at least 10 people to qualify. It’s worth checking out if you’re planning a big outing.
Student discounts are available too. When my nephew started at Rutgers, he got a great deal on tickets. It’s a fun way for students to support their school and enjoy some football.
Family and Kids
SHI Stadium is a great place for families to enjoy football together. I found lots of fun activities for kids and nice amenities that make it easier to bring the whole family.
Family-Friendly Amenities
When I visited SHI Stadium, I was impressed by the family-friendly features. There are plenty of clean restrooms with changing tables. I saw several nursing rooms for moms with babies. The concession stands offer kid-sized meals and snacks.
Getting around with kids is easy. The wide concourses have room for strollers. There are elevators to all levels. I noticed staff members helping families find their seats.
Be aware of the clear bag policy for safety. I recommend bringing a clear bag or small clutch to hold your family’s items.
Entertainment for Kids
Kids will love the fun atmosphere at SHI Stadium. I saw the Rutgers Scarlet Knight mascot walking around, taking photos with excited children. When Rutgers scores, a knight rides across the field on horseback – my kids thought this was amazing!
There are interactive games and activities for kids in the concourse areas. I found face painting stations and inflatable play areas before the game started.
During breaks in play, the big video screens show fun contests and crowd games. My family enjoyed participating in the “Dance Cam” and “Kiss Cam” moments.
The marching band performances are lively and entertaining for all ages. I noticed lots of kids dancing along to the music in the stands.
Stadium Policies and Services
SHI Stadium has rules to keep fans safe and help them enjoy the game. I’ll cover what you can bring in and how to get back lost items.
Bag Size and Security
I’ve found that SHI Stadium has strict bag policies. Only small clutch purses and clear bags are allowed. The clear bags must be 12″ x 6″ x 12″ or smaller. Clutch purses can’t be bigger than 4.5″ x 6.5″.
Security checks all bags at the gates. I recommend leaving big bags at home or in your car. There aren’t any lockers at the stadium to store items.
Police and security staff are all around the stadium. They keep an eye out for any issues. I feel safe when I’m at games here.
Lost and Found Services
If you lose something at SHI Stadium, don’t panic! The stadium has a lost and found service. I’ve used it before, and it was helpful.
To check for lost items, go to the main ticket office. It’s near Gate A. Tell them what you lost and when you think you lost it. They’ll check if anyone turned it in.
If your item isn’t there, leave your contact info. Sometimes things show up later. They’ll call you if they find it. I suggest labeling your stuff with your name and phone number. It makes it easier to get things back to you.
Food and Amenities
SHI Stadium offers a variety of tasty food options and convenient amenities. I found plenty to eat and drink during my visit. The stadium makes an effort to include local flavors alongside typical game day fare.
Concession Stands and Jersey Mike’s Arena
I was impressed by the number of concession stands throughout SHI Stadium. Lines moved quickly even during halftime rushes. The main concourse has several spots to grab hot dogs, burgers, and pizza. I noticed Jersey Mike’s subs available too – a nice local touch.
For drinks, there were Coca-Cola products and bottled water. Beer is only sold in designated areas. I appreciated the water bottle refill stations to stay hydrated.
The Stadium Club sections offer an all-you-can-eat buffet during football games. This includes a carving station and traditional stadium snacks.
Specialty Foods and Local Favorites
I was excited to try some uniquely New Jersey foods at SHI Stadium. The famous Jersey Shore boardwalk treat, funnel cake, was a hit. I also spotted stands selling Italian ice – perfect for hot game days.
For heartier fare, I couldn’t resist the Scarlet Knights themed “Knight Burger”. It’s topped with bacon and BBQ sauce. Vegetarian options were available too, including veggie burgers and salads.
Local food trucks sometimes set up outside the stadium. They offer more variety like gourmet grilled cheese or ethnic cuisines. It’s worth checking them out before heading inside.
Accessibility and Accommodation
SHI Stadium strives to make the game day experience enjoyable for all fans. I’ve found that their accessibility features and accommodations are quite comprehensive.
ADA Accessibility
I’m impressed by SHI Stadium’s ADA-compliant seating options. They have wheelchair spaces and companion seats throughout the venue.
The stadium offers easy-access ramps and elevators for getting to different levels. I’ve noticed that the concourses are wide, making it simple to navigate in a wheelchair.
Accessible restrooms are available on all levels. They’re spacious and well-maintained.
I like that there are lowered concession counters for easier access. The staff is always ready to help if needed.
Accommodations for Disabilities
SHI Stadium goes beyond just physical accessibility. They provide several services for fans with various needs.
For hearing-impaired guests, I’ve seen that assistive listening devices are available at no cost. You can pick these up at the guest services booth.
Visually impaired fans can request audio play-by-play descriptions. I think it’s great that they offer this service.
Service animals are welcome in the stadium. There are designated relief areas for them too.
I appreciate that the stadium has a sensory room for guests who might need a quiet space. It’s a thoughtful addition to help everyone enjoy the game.
Fan Experience and Stories
SHI Stadium is full of exciting moments and memories. I’ve heard many great stories from fans about their time at Rutgers games.
Personal Anecdotes and Highlights
I went to my first game at SHI Stadium last fall. The atmosphere was electric! As soon as I walked in, I felt the energy of the crowd. Everyone was decked out in scarlet, ready to cheer on the Scarlet Knights.
The student section was the loudest part of the stadium. When Rutgers scored a touchdown, the place erupted. I’d never heard anything so loud! The noise was incredible.
My favorite part was the Scarlet Knight mascot riding out on a horse. It got everyone pumped up for kickoff. During halftime, I grabbed some food and explored the stadium. The views of the field were great from every spot I checked out.
After the game, I read some reviews from other fans. Many had similar positive experiences. It seems like SHI Stadium is a fun place for most Rutgers supporters.
Comparisons and Rivalries
SHI Stadium is part of a bigger college football landscape. I’ve seen how it stacks up against other venues and rivals. Let’s look at Rutgers’ matchups with Penn State and how SHI Stadium compares to other Big Ten stadiums.
Rutgers vs. Penn State
The Rutgers-Penn State rivalry is pretty exciting. I love watching these two teams face off at SHI Stadium. The Scarlet Knights always bring their A-game against the Nittany Lions.
The stadium gets super loud when Penn State comes to town. Fans pack the stands, and you can feel the energy. Even though Penn State often has the upper hand, Rutgers puts up a good fight on their home turf.
I’ve noticed the teams seem evenly matched in terms of fan support at SHI Stadium. Both sides show up in force, creating a sea of red and blue in the stands. It’s a fun atmosphere that really showcases college football at its best.
Stadiums of the Big Ten
When I compare SHI Stadium to other Big Ten venues, it holds its own pretty well. With 52,454 seats, it’s not the biggest, but it’s far from the smallest.
I like how SHI Stadium has a mix of old-school charm and modern amenities. The horseshoe shape of the lower bowl gives it a classic feel. The two upper decks on the sides add some nice views too.
Some perks I’ve noticed:
- Good sightlines from most seats
- Decent concessions options
- Easy access to bathrooms
While it might not have the size of Michigan’s Big House or the history of Ohio State’s Horseshoe, SHI Stadium has its own unique character. I find it’s a great place to catch a Big Ten matchup and soak in the college football atmosphere.
Frequently Asked Questions
SHI Stadium offers a range of amenities and experiences for football fans. I’ll cover some key details about food, seating, atmosphere, and more to help you plan your visit.
What types of food concessions are available at SHI Stadium?
SHI Stadium has lots of tasty food options. I can grab classic stadium fare like hot dogs, burgers, and nachos. There are also some local specialties and healthier choices available.
Drinks include soda, water, and beer for those of legal age. I like to try different concession stands each time I visit to sample the variety.
What is the seating capacity of SHI Stadium?
SHI Stadium can hold a big crowd on game day. The seating capacity is 52,454 fans. That creates an exciting atmosphere when it’s full.
I find the stadium feels spacious yet intimate. I can see the action well from most seats.
Can you describe the atmosphere during football games at SHI Stadium?
The atmosphere at SHI Stadium games is electric. Fans deck out in scarlet gear to support the Rutgers Scarlet Knights. I love hearing the roar of the crowd after a big play.
The student section brings tons of energy. Chants and cheers echo throughout the stadium. It’s a fun, family-friendly environment that gets me pumped up for the game.
How to enhance the game-day experience at SHI Stadium?
I like to arrive early to soak in the pre-game excitement. Tailgating in the parking lots is a great way to meet other fans. I bring a clear bag to hold my stuff, as regular bags aren’t allowed inside.
Wearing Rutgers gear helps me feel part of the crowd. I also download the Rutgers app for easy access to tickets and stadium info.
What are the amenities offered at SHI Stadium for guests?
SHI Stadium has clean restrooms throughout the concourses. There are plenty of concession stands to grab food and drinks. I appreciate the water bottle filling stations to stay hydrated.
For families, there are changing tables in some restrooms. The stadium is wheelchair accessible with designated seating areas.
What’s the history behind the naming of SHI Stadium?
SHI Stadium got its current name in 2019. It’s named after SHI International Corp., an IT company that partnered with Rutgers. Before that, it was called High Point Solutions Stadium.
The stadium itself opened in 1994. It’s been home to Rutgers football ever since, continuing the school’s long history in college football that dates back to 1869.
