UB Stadium is a sports venue on the University at Buffalo campus that hosts football games and other events. I recently visited the stadium and found it to be a decent place to watch college sports. The stadium has 11 sections on each side with bleacher seating for about 25,000 fans.
While not the fanciest facility, UB Stadium has its charms. I enjoyed the energy of the crowd during a Bulls football game. The views of the field are pretty good from most seats. There’s a basic scoreboard and some concession stands, but don’t expect luxury amenities.
Getting to the stadium was easy enough, with parking lots nearby. I’d recommend arriving early on game days to avoid traffic. Overall, UB Stadium provides a solid venue for watching Buffalo Bulls football and other events, even if it’s not the most impressive college stadium I’ve been to.
Key Takeaways
- UB Stadium seats about 25,000 fans in bleacher-style sections on both sides of the field
- The venue hosts Buffalo Bulls football games and other University at Buffalo sporting events
- Parking is available near the stadium, but arrive early on game days to beat the crowds
History and Overview
UB Stadium has a rich history tied to the University at Buffalo’s football program. I’ll take you through its construction and upgrades over the years.
Construction Milestones
I remember when UB Stadium first opened in 1993. It was a big deal for the university! The stadium cost $23 million to build, which was a lot back then. The New York State Dormitory Authority helped fund it.
They built it as part of UB’s push to get back to Division I football. It wasn’t just for football though. The stadium also hosted the 1993 World University Games, which was really exciting for the area.
When it opened, the stadium could hold 31,000 fans. That’s still the capacity today. It also had 12 luxury suites from the start.
Renovations and Upgrades
Over the years, I’ve seen UB Stadium get some nice upgrades. One of the biggest was installing an artificial surface. They put in a Sportexe Momentum field, which was a big improvement over natural grass.
The university has also worked on improving facilities for the athletes. They’ve added state-of-the-art training areas and better conditioning equipment.
The locker rooms got an upgrade too. They can now fit up to 800 athletes, which is great for big events.
I think these changes have really helped UB’s sports programs grow and attract better talent.
Stadium Facilities
UB Stadium offers a range of top-notch facilities for fans and athletes alike. I’ve explored the stadium and want to share what I’ve found about its amenities and features.
Seating Arrangements
The seating at UB Stadium is designed to give fans a great view of the action. I noticed the stadium can hold a good number of people, though it’s not the biggest college venue I’ve seen.
The seats are comfortable enough for a few hours of game time. I like that there’s a mix of bleacher-style seating and individual seats in some sections.
One thing I appreciated was how close you can get to the field. Even in the upper sections, I felt like I could see everything clearly.
Luxury Suites and Hospitality
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UB Stadium steps up its game with 12 luxury suites. I had the chance to peek into one, and I was impressed.
These suites offer a great view of the field and come with comfy seating. They’re perfect for groups or businesses looking for a special game day experience.
I also spotted some hospitality areas for other VIP guests. These spaces seemed well-equipped for entertaining and networking during events.
Food and Concessions
The food options at UB Stadium are pretty good for a college venue. I found a variety of concession stands around the stadium.
They offer your typical game day fare – hot dogs, burgers, and popcorn. But I was happy to see some local Buffalo specialties too, like chicken wings.
The lines can get long during halftime, so I’d suggest grabbing snacks early. Prices are what you’d expect at a stadium – not cheap, but not outrageous either.
Locker Rooms and Athlete Amenities
The athlete facilities at UB Stadium are impressive. There are two large locker rooms that can fit up to 800 athletes. That’s a lot of space!
I heard about the Ronald M. Larocque Players Lounge, which sounds pretty cool. It’s got leather couches, flat-screen TVs, and gaming systems for athletes to relax.
The equipment room uses a modular organizing system. This helps keep everything tidy and easy to find for the teams.
Training and Administrative Facilities
UB Stadium houses some great training facilities. I saw state-of-the-art conditioning equipment that looked top-notch.
There are also meeting rooms where teams can gather to review game plans. The administrative offices are located in the stadium too, which is convenient.
The 45-seat press box caught my eye. It’s where all the media action happens during games.
Overall, I think UB Stadium does a good job of providing for both athletes and fans. The facilities seem well-maintained and up-to-date.
Accessibility and Parking
Getting to UB Stadium is easy and convenient. I’ll cover the parking options, transportation services, and accessibility features to help you plan your visit.
Parking Options
I found that UB Stadium offers several parking choices for visitors. The main lot is right next to the stadium, which is super handy. I usually park there when I go to games. There’s also overflow parking on the North Campus if the main lot fills up.
For big games, I recommend arriving early to snag a good spot. The lots can fill up fast! If you have a disability parking permit, there are reserved spaces near the South Gate Entrance. You’ll need to show your permit to use these spots.
Shuttle Services and Public Transport
I love that UB offers shuttle services on game days. It’s a great option if you don’t want to deal with parking. The shuttles run from various points on campus to the stadium. They’re free and run frequently before and after the game.
If you’re coming from off-campus, there are public buses that stop near the stadium. I’ve used them a few times and found them pretty reliable. Just make sure to check the schedule in advance, as service can be limited on weekends.
Stadium Accessibility Features
UB Stadium is designed to be welcoming for all fans. I noticed they have wheelchair ramps and elevators for easy access to all levels. There are also plenty of accessible seating areas with good views of the field.
For hearing-impaired fans, assistive listening devices are available. Just ask at the information desk. The stadium also has accessible restrooms and concession stands on every level.
If you need any special accommodations, I suggest contacting the ticket office before your visit. They’re always happy to help make your experience enjoyable.
Events and Teams
UB Stadium hosts a variety of exciting events throughout the year. I’ve seen everything from football games to track meets to concerts here. It’s a versatile venue that serves the university and community well.
University at Buffalo Bulls Football
I love watching the Buffalo Bulls play football at UB Stadium. As the home field for the Division I team, it really comes alive on game days. The stadium can hold up to 25,000 fans, creating an electric atmosphere. I’ve cheered the Bulls on as they’ve faced tough conference rivals in the Mid-American Conference.
The football program has grown a lot over the years. They’ve had some great seasons recently, even making it to bowl games. I always enjoy the tailgating scene before kickoff – fans set up grills and tents in the parking lots hours before the game starts.
Inside, the view of the field is pretty good from most seats. The video board keeps you updated on stats and replays. It’s not the biggest college stadium, but it fits UB well.
Soccer and Track and Field
UB Stadium isn’t just for football. I’ve watched some exciting soccer matches here too. Both the men’s and women’s teams play their home games on the field. The wide-open space is perfect for soccer.
The track surrounding the field hosts track and field events. I’ve seen some impressive performances at meets here. UB’s track teams train and compete on this surface. It’s a full 400-meter track with areas for field events too.
In 2023, UB Stadium got a big upgrade to host track events for the World University Games. I was impressed by the new track surface and equipment. It really put Buffalo on the map for international track competitions.
Other Sporting Events
While football, soccer, and track are the main sports at UB Stadium, I’ve seen other events here too. The open field allows for different setups. Lacrosse games sometimes take place on the turf.
The stadium has hosted high school football championships. It’s cool to see local teams get to play in a big venue. Rugby matches have also been held here on occasion.
With the field and surrounding facilities, UB can host sports clinics and camps during the off-season. I’ve seen youth football and soccer events make use of the space.
Concerts and Special Events
UB Stadium isn’t just for sports. I’ve been to some great concerts here over the years. The open-air setup works well for big shows in the warmer months.
Some notable acts I’ve seen perform include:
- Fall Out Boy
- Wiz Khalifa
- Zac Brown Band
The stadium has also hosted graduation ceremonies for UB. It’s a perfect spot to fit all the graduates and their families. I attended one and the atmosphere was festive.
Community events like charity walks sometimes use the stadium as a start/finish point. The spacious layout makes it easy to organize large gatherings.
Local Amenities and Entertainment
UB Stadium is surrounded by plenty of options for food, drinks, shopping, and accommodations. I’ve explored the area and found some great spots to check out before or after the game.
Restaurants and Bars
There are lots of tasty places to grab a bite near UB Stadium. I love Ub Stadium Grill for burgers and wings before kickoff. The Steer Restaurant & Saloon is another favorite, with a fun game day atmosphere.
For drinks, The Steer has a great beer selection. Santora’s Pizza Pub & Grill is perfect for pizza and brews while watching other games.
Mexican fans will enjoy La Divina, while Ginger & Garlic serves up delicious Chinese food. Zetti’s Pizza & Pasta satisfies Italian cravings.
Shopping and Services
The Boulevard Mall is just a short drive away for any shopping needs. It has department stores, clothing shops, and specialty retailers.
For groceries, there’s a Wegmans supermarket nearby. I’ve used several local services around the stadium:
- Joe’s Plumbing for quick fixes
- Amherst Auto Detailing to spruce up my car
- Boulevard Movers for help on game days
Hotels and Accommodations
I recommend staying close to the action on game weekends. The Reikart House is a charming boutique hotel about 10 minutes from the stadium.
For budget options, there’s a Hampton Inn and Homewood Suites nearby. Both offer comfortable rooms and free breakfast.
The Hyatt Place Buffalo/Amherst is another solid choice, with spacious rooms and a convenient location.
All these hotels are within a 15-minute drive of UB Stadium, making it easy to get to and from the game.
Visitor Information
UB Stadium offers a range of seating options and policies for fans. I’ll cover what you need to know about tickets, rules, and special experiences at the stadium.
Ticketing and Seating Policies
I’ve found that getting tickets for UB Stadium is pretty straightforward. You can buy them online or at the box office on game day. The stadium has 11 sections on each side of the field, with 16 rows of bleacher-style seating in each section. I like sitting in the 100 level for the best views.
Most seats are bleachers without backs, so I always bring a cushion for comfort. There are some chairback seats near the 50-yard line, but they’re limited. If you’re a fan of the visiting team, aim for sections near their sideline.
For Mid-American Conference games, I recommend buying tickets early. They tend to sell out faster than non-conference matchups.
Rules and Regulations
When I visit UB Stadium, I make sure to follow their rules. They don’t allow outside food or drinks, but there are plenty of concession stands inside. I always bring a clear bag for my belongings, as they have a strict bag policy.
Smoking isn’t allowed anywhere in the stadium. I’ve seen people get asked to leave for breaking this rule. Tailgating is allowed in designated parking lots before the game, which is a fun way to start the day.
They’re pretty strict about staying in your assigned seat during the game. Ushers check tickets regularly, especially in the more popular sections.
Stadium Tours and Experiences
I love taking stadium tours at UB Stadium. They offer guided walks through the facility, including areas normally off-limits to fans. You get to see the locker rooms, press box, and even walk on the field.
For a special game day experience, I recommend the VIP field house. It’s a climate-controlled area with great views of the action. They sometimes offer pre-game talks with coaches or former players here.
On non-game days, the stadium track is open to the public for walking or jogging. It’s a cool way to experience the venue without the crowds.
Fan Experience
UB Stadium offers a fun game day atmosphere for Bulls fans. The venue has some cool features to get the crowd pumped up. Let’s check out what makes watching a game here special.
Interactive Features
I love how UB Stadium uses tech to boost the fan experience. The big video board shows replays and stats to keep me in the loop. There’s also a mobile app that lets me order food without leaving my seat. That’s super handy!
The stadium has free Wi-Fi too. I can post pics and check scores while cheering on the Bulls. It’s great to stay connected during the game.
Fan Engagement Activities
UB knows how to keep fans entertained. Before kickoff, there’s usually a fan fest outside with games and giveaways. I always try to snag some free Bulls swag!
During breaks, they have fun contests on the field. T-shirt tosses get everyone on their feet. The mascot races are hilarious – I crack up watching Victor E. Bull sprint across the turf.
Kids can meet the players after games for autographs. It’s heartwarming to see young fans light up meeting their heroes.
Game Day Energy and Atmosphere
The energy at UB Stadium on game day is electric. When the Bulls score, the place erupts! The student section leads chants that echo through the stands.
I dig the food options too. There’s more than just hot dogs and pretzels. Local Buffalo favorites like beef on weck are available. Grabbing some wings while watching football feels quintessentially Buffalo.
The setting in Amherst is pretty. On crisp fall days, the trees around the stadium show off beautiful colors. It makes for great photos to remember the day.
Media
UB Stadium gets some coverage in local media and on social platforms. Fans can share their experiences online and through photos. Let’s look at how the stadium is portrayed in different media.
Press and Coverage
Local news outlets sometimes cover UB football games at the stadium. I’ve seen brief mentions in the Buffalo News about game results and attendance. The coverage isn’t as extensive as pro teams, but big games get some attention.
TV stations may show highlights from important matchups. I’ve noticed radio stations discussing UB football on sports talk shows now and then. The stadium itself doesn’t get a ton of press, but it’s part of UB sports coverage.
Social Media Presence
UB Athletics has accounts on major social platforms to share updates. I follow their Twitter for game day info and highlights. On Instagram, they post photos from the stadium on game days.
Fans use hashtags like #HornsUp and #UBBulls to share their experiences. I’ve seen some cool fan photos of the stadium and game action pop up in my feed. The social buzz isn’t huge, but there’s a small community of engaged fans online.
Photography and Filming Policies
I’m not totally sure about the exact rules, but I believe fans can take photos for personal use. When I’ve gone to games, I’ve seen plenty of people snapping pics on their phones without issues.
For more serious photography or video, there may be restrictions. I’d guess media needs approval to film. The university likely has rules to protect player privacy and broadcast rights. If you want to do any commercial photography, it’s best to check with UB Athletics first about their policies.
Frequently Asked Questions
I’ve gathered some key info about UB Stadium to answer common questions. Fans want to know about the atmosphere, seating, food, parking, accessibility, and recent upgrades.
What are people saying about the atmosphere at UB Stadium during games?
UB Stadium has a fun college vibe on game days. I’ve heard fans say it gets pretty lively when the Bulls are playing well. The student section brings energy, and there’s usually a decent crowd for bigger games.
How do guests rate the seating and comfort at UB Stadium?
The seating is basic but gets the job done. Most seats are bleacher-style without back support. It’s not the comfiest, but it’s what you’d expect at a smaller college stadium. I suggest bringing a seat cushion if you want extra comfort.
What are the food and beverage options like at UB Stadium?
Food options are limited but improved recently. You can find standard stadium fare like hot dogs, nachos, and popcorn. They added beer sales a few years back, which was a popular move with fans.
Can you tell me about the parking availability at UB Stadium for football games?
Parking is usually pretty easy at UB Stadium. There are lots close to the stadium, and I’ve never had trouble finding a spot. It’s much simpler than dealing with parking at pro stadiums.
What are the accessibility options provided at UB Stadium for individuals with disabilities?
UB Stadium offers accessible seating and ramps for fans with mobility issues. I’ve seen wheelchair spaces in various sections. It’s best to contact the ticket office directly for specific accessibility needs.
Are there any recent upgrades or renovations to UB Stadium that enhance the fan experience?
Besides adding beer sales, I haven’t heard of major upgrades lately. The concessions have gotten a bit better, but fans are still waiting for big improvements. The basics are there, but it could use some modernizing.
