Gerald J. Ford Stadium is a must-visit spot for college football fans in Dallas. As the home of the SMU Mustangs, this stadium offers a cozy and fun atmosphere that’s perfect for enjoying a game. I love how the stadium is built slightly into the ground, with a grassy hill on the south end that adds a unique touch.
The stadium seats about 32,000 people and offers tickets ranging from $20 to $35 for most games. This makes it an affordable option for families and fans looking to catch some exciting college football action. Plus, the open grassy area is great for kids to play and for families to have a picnic before or during the game.
I’m always impressed by the Doak Walker Plaza at the main entrance, featuring a statue of the 1948 Heisman Trophy winner. It’s a nice touch that connects the stadium to SMU’s rich football history. While the amenities inside might be basic, the real charm of Gerald J. Ford Stadium lies in its connection to the beautiful SMU campus and the energetic game day experience.
Key Takeaways
- Gerald J. Ford Stadium offers an affordable and family-friendly college football experience
- The stadium’s unique design includes a grassy hill area perfect for picnics and kids’ activities
- The game day atmosphere and connection to SMU’s campus make it a standout venue for football fans
History and Background
Gerald J. Ford Stadium has a rich history tied to SMU football. It’s named after a successful businessman and replaced an older venue. Let me tell you about the key figures and events that shaped this stadium.
Gerald J. Ford – The Businessman
Gerald J. Ford is a big name in banking. He made his fortune by buying and selling banks. I find it amazing how he used his success to help SMU.
Ford gave a lot of money to build the stadium. It opened in 2000 and cost about $42 million. The stadium carries his name as a thank you for his generosity.
Ford’s gift was huge for SMU. It gave the football program a modern home. I think it shows how alumni can make a big difference for their schools.
SMU Mustangs’ Legacy
The SMU Mustangs have a long football history. They’ve been playing since 1915! I’m always impressed by teams with such deep roots.
The Mustangs had great success in the 1980s. They won two Southwest Conference titles. Sadly, the team got in trouble for breaking rules. This led to the “death penalty” in 1987.
But the Mustangs bounced back. Gerald J. Ford Stadium became a symbol of their comeback. It gave the team a fresh start in a new home.
Former Venues: Ownby Stadium
Before Ford Stadium, the Mustangs played at Ownby Stadium. It opened in 1926 and served the team for 74 years. I can only imagine the memories made there!
Ownby was much smaller. It held about 23,783 fans. As SMU grew, they needed more space.
The new Ford Stadium can fit 32,000 fans. It’s a big upgrade. I think it shows how far SMU football has come.
Location and Transport
Gerald J. Ford Stadium is in a great spot on SMU’s campus. It’s easy to get to by car or public transit. I’ll tell you how it fits into campus life and the best ways to get there.
Campus Integration
The stadium sits right on SMU’s beautiful campus in University Park. I love how it blends in with the school’s brick buildings. It’s near dorms and classrooms, so students can walk over on game days.
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The area around the stadium is perfect for tailgating. There’s a grassy end zone where kids can play catch or have a picnic before the game. I’ve seen families tossing frisbees there too.
Access and DART Connections
Getting to Gerald J. Ford Stadium is a breeze. If you’re driving, there’s parking nearby, but spaces can fill up fast for big games. I recommend getting there early.
My favorite way to get there is by DART rail. The Mockingbird Station is just a short walk away. It’s so convenient – no traffic or parking hassles! Plus, the train connects to downtown Dallas and other parts of the city.
Once you’re at the station, it’s an easy stroll to the stadium. You’ll see lots of fans in SMU gear heading the same way. It’s a fun atmosphere that gets you excited for the game.
Stadium Specifications
Gerald J. Ford Stadium has some cool features that make it a great place to watch football. I’ll tell you about the seating options and what the field is like.
Seating and Capacity
I love how Gerald J. Ford Stadium is set up for fans. It can hold 32,000 people, which is a nice size – not too big, not too small. The stadium has two main seating tiers, giving everyone a good view of the action.
My favorite part is the grassy bank at one end. It’s perfect for spreading out a blanket and watching the game in a more relaxed way. Families seem to really enjoy this area.
The seats on the sides are closer to the field. I’ve sat there, and it’s awesome how near you are to the players. These seats have backs, which is comfy for long games.
Field and Turf
When I walk on the field, I’m always impressed by how nice it feels. The stadium’s playing surface is top-notch. It’s designed to give the SMU Mustangs a great place to play.
The turf is kept in amazing condition. It’s springy under your feet and looks super green, even late in the season. I’ve heard the players say it’s one of the best surfaces they play on all year.
Something cool I learned: they’re adding a natural grass practice field nearby. This will give the team more options for training and help keep the main field in great shape.
Game Day Experience
Gerald J. Ford Stadium offers an exciting college football atmosphere. From tailgating to team spirit, there’s something for everyone on game day. Let me take you through the highlights.
The Boulevard Tailgating
I love The Boulevard on game days! It’s a top-20 tailgating experience in college football. Fans gather hours before kickoff to enjoy food, drinks, and friendship. I’ve seen everything from simple setups to elaborate spreads with TVs and grills.
Food trucks line the area, offering tasty options. The energy is electric as people chat about the upcoming game. Kids play catch on the grass, adding to the family-friendly vibe.
I always arrive early to soak in the atmosphere. It’s a great chance to meet other fans and get pumped for the game.
Mustang Band and Atmosphere
When I enter the stadium, the Mustang Band’s music fills the air. Their performances add so much to the game day experience. I love watching them march and play fight songs.
The 32,000-seat stadium feels cozy, which creates a great atmosphere. Fans are close to the action, making it easy to get caught up in the excitement.
I enjoy the slanted grass end zone area. It’s perfect for families with young kids who want to run around during the game.
The crowd’s energy builds as kickoff approaches. When the team takes the field, the cheers are deafening!
Food and Concessions
I’m always impressed by the food options at Gerald J. Ford Stadium. The concessions offer more than just typical stadium fare.
Local favorites are available alongside classic game day foods. I’ve enjoyed everything from BBQ to gourmet hot dogs. There are also healthier choices for those watching what they eat.
Beer is sold at the stadium, which adds to the fun for many fans. I appreciate that there are usually short lines, so I don’t miss much of the action.
Prices are reasonable for a college stadium. I find the food quality to be good, especially compared to other venues I’ve visited.
Amenities and Facilities
Gerald J. Ford Stadium offers great amenities for fans. I found the facilities to be top-notch, with plenty of options to keep everyone happy on game day.
Comfort and Cleanliness
I was impressed by how comfortable the seats were at Ford Stadium. Even during long games, I didn’t feel sore or cramped. The stadium wasn’t packed, so I had room to stretch out.
The whole place was very clean. I didn’t see any trash lying around, and the aisles were well-maintained. This made for a pleasant experience as I walked around.
Concessions were reasonably priced. I enjoyed a hot dog and pretzel without breaking the bank. They even had wine options for those who prefer that over beer.
Restrooms and Family Areas
I found the restrooms to be very nice. They were clean and well-stocked. I never had to wait in a long line, which is always a plus at sporting events.
While I didn’t see a specific children’s play area, the stadium seemed family-friendly. The open layout made it easy to move around with kids.
Parking was a breeze. I found free spots on nearby side streets, saving some cash. This made the whole outing more affordable for my family.
The stadium’s design fits in nicely with SMU’s campus. I liked how it kept the same style as other buildings around it.
Fan Services
Gerald J. Ford Stadium offers plenty of amenities to make game day enjoyable. I’ll cover the key things you need to know about tickets and security when visiting the venue.
Ticketing and Prices
I found that ticket prices at Gerald J. Ford Stadium are pretty reasonable. Basic tickets usually run $20-$35, which I think is a good deal.
Keep in mind that prices go up for big games against major opponents. I recommend checking the SMU website for the most up-to-date pricing.
If you’re bringing the family, there’s a grassy area in one end zone that’s perfect for kids. I’ve seen families having picnics and playing catch there during games.
Security and Bag Policy
The stadium has a clear bag policy to keep everyone safe. I make sure to only bring clear plastic bags or small clutch purses.
Weapons aren’t allowed, of course. The security lines move pretty quickly in my experience.
I always see plenty of security staff around to help if needed. They do a good job keeping things orderly without being intrusive.
One tip – bring an empty water bottle to fill up inside. It can get hot at early season games, so staying hydrated is key.
Special Events and Uses
Gerald J. Ford Stadium hosts more than just SMU football games. It’s a versatile venue that brings the community together for various exciting events throughout the year.
College and High School Games
I’ve seen some thrilling NCAA games at Ford Stadium. It’s not just for SMU – other colleges sometimes play here too. The stadium has also hosted high school playoff games, which are always super fun to watch.
One time, I went to an NCAA-sanctioned event here. The atmosphere was electric! The stadium’s design makes every seat feel close to the action. It’s perfect for these big games.
Cultural and Community Events
Ford Stadium isn’t just about football. I’ve attended some awesome community events here too. The open space is great for concerts and festivals.
Did you know they’ve even held an NFL draft event here? How cool is that? It’s neat to see pro football using our college stadium.
I love how the stadium brings people together. Whether it’s a charity run or a cultural festival, there’s always something happening. It really feels like the heart of our community.
Team and Sports Culture
The SMU Mustangs football team brings excitement and pride to Gerald J. Ford Stadium. I’ve seen how the team’s history and rivalries shape the fan experience on game days.
College Rivalries
The Battle for the Iron Skillet is a highlight of SMU’s football season. This long-standing rivalry game against TCU gets fans fired up every year. I love seeing the stadium packed with supporters decked out in red and blue.
SMU also faces tough competition in the American Athletic Conference (AAC). Games against conference foes like Houston and Memphis always draw big crowds. The energy in the stadium during these matchups is electric.
National Recognition
SMU football has a rich history of success. The program has produced NFL stars and Heisman Trophy winners. Doak Walker, a legendary running back, is honored with a plaza outside the stadium.
I’ve noticed increased national attention on SMU in recent years. The team has had some impressive wins against ranked opponents. This success has put SMU back on the college football map.
The NCAA recognized SMU’s improved academic performance for student-athletes. This shows the school’s commitment to excellence both on and off the field.
Visitor Experience
Gerald J. Ford Stadium offers a great experience for visitors. I loved exploring the area around the stadium and checking out the attractions inside. Here’s what I found most enjoyable during my visit.
Neighborhood Amenities
I was impressed by the stadium’s location in University Park, Texas. The neighborhood has a charming college-town feel. I found plenty of great food spots nearby for a pre-game meal. My favorite was a cozy burger joint just a short walk away.
The area around SMU’s campus is beautiful. I enjoyed strolling through the tree-lined streets before the game. There are some cute shops to browse too.
Downtown Dallas is just a quick drive from the stadium. I’d recommend making time to explore the city if you’re visiting from out of town.
Stadium Tours and Attractions
I was excited to take a tour of Gerald J. Ford Stadium. The guides were super friendly and knew tons about SMU football history. I got to see:
- The field up close
- Luxury suites
- Locker rooms
- Press box
The stadium has some cool memorabilia on display. I spotted jerseys from famous SMU alums and old game programs.
My favorite part was checking out the 24 luxury suites. The views of the field are amazing from up there!
I even got a peek at the George W. Bush Presidential Center nearby on SMU’s campus. It’s worth a visit if you have extra time.
Tips and Recommendations
I’ve been to Gerald J. Ford Stadium a few times and have some tips to share. The layout is great for watching games. Most seats offer a good view of the field.
For the best experience, I recommend sitting near the 50-yard line. The intimacy of the stadium makes you feel close to the action no matter where you sit.
Parking can be tricky. I suggest arriving early to find free street parking nearby. It’s an easy walk to the stadium.
Here are some quick tips:
- Bring a cushion for comfort
- Wear sunscreen for day games
- Pack a light jacket for night games
- Buy tickets in advance for popular matchups
I’ve noticed reduced attendance at some games. This means you can often find good seats at the last minute.
The only bad seats I’ve found are in the far corners. If you can, avoid these areas.
Don’t forget to try the concessions! I think the prices are fair for a stadium. My favorite is the nachos.
Remember to cheer loud for the SMU Mustangs! The atmosphere is always fun when the crowd gets into it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Gerald J. Ford Stadium has gone through some changes lately. I’ve got the scoop on the latest upgrades, seating capacity, and amenities. I’ll also share where to find the stadium and how it stacks up against others in the area.
What are the latest expansions to the Gerald J. Ford Stadium?
The stadium recently got a facelift. They added new seating areas and spruced up existing ones. I heard they also put in some fancy new scoreboards and improved the sound system.
What is the seating capacity of the SMU football stadium after its expansion?
After the expansion, Gerald J. Ford Stadium can now hold 32,000 fans. That’s a good-sized crowd for college football games. It’s enough to create a great atmosphere without feeling too crowded.
Can spectators expect covered seating areas at the Gerald J. Ford Stadium?
Yes, there are some covered seating areas. I’ve noticed them in parts of the main grandstand. These spots are great for those hot Texas days or if there’s a chance of rain.
What are some of the new facilities available at SMU’s football stadium?
The stadium now has better concession stands. They’ve also added more restrooms, which is always a plus. I’ve seen new luxury boxes and club seating areas too. These upgrades make watching the game more fun and comfy.
Where exactly can I find the SMU Football stadium?
Gerald J. Ford Stadium is located on the SMU campus in Dallas, Texas. It’s easy to spot with its bright red seats. You can’t miss it if you’re driving around the university area.
How does the seating capacity of Gerald J. Ford Stadium compare with TCU’s stadium?
I’ve been to both stadiums. Gerald J. Ford Stadium is a bit smaller than TCU’s. While SMU’s stadium holds 32,000 fans, TCU’s can fit about 45,000. But size isn’t everything – SMU’s stadium still has a great game-day feel.
