Where Can I Park and Tailgate Before a UGA Football Game?

What are the Top Tailgate Spots on UGA Campus?

• UGA's Historic North Campus and Herty Field: You'll be near where it all began, as Herty Field is the site of the early UGA football games. Movers and shakers wine and dine and socialize here. It's beautiful and shady, and due to its historic nature has some tighter regulations on noise and trash than some other spots. This is a good spot for families.

• Central Campus: There are reserved parking and prepaid tailgate services for those who don't want to pack all their own gear. While all of campus is convenient to Sanford Stadium, Central Campus is on its doorstep. There are more road closures in the heart of campus, though.
   
• South Campus: With plenty of room to spread out, some of the largest and oldest tailgate groups have staked their claim in these spots for years and years, with one of the most notable spots being Myers Quad. Shows like College Gameday setup here, while people camp all night to participate. Music and TV broadcasts of other games vie for attention with grilling and cornhole.
   
• Intramural Fields: Many RVers love this area, as well as others who like plenty of space and a shuttle to and from the stadium. Tip: These are some of the last-to-fill-up spots for those who don't have season parking, and the shuttles are very convenient back to the parking lot, which in turn is right next to the bypass for an easy escape after the game.

Does UGA offer Premium VIP Tailgating?

Yes! The Bulldogs Tailgate Club offers special tailgate packages for fans, so you can enjoy gameday without the hassle. You can buy a full season package or a single game package on designated areas of campus.

Some amenities include:

• Fully set-up tents
• Catering/ southern-style food
• TVs, seating, decor
• Parking space!
• No setup or cleanup required

Where can I park on UGA campus for tailgating?

• East Campus Deck and other lots are available on game days.
• UGA offers a shuttle service (Stadium Loop) that runs to Sanford Stadium that starts around 3.5 hours before kickoff.
• Postgame shuttles operate for at least one hour after the game.

What are the tailgating rules and regulations on UGA Campus?

Before you set up your tailgate, review these key University of Georgia guidelines to ensure a smooth and enjoyable gameday.

Tailgating Hours

No tailgating setups before 7 a.m. on Saturday. On North Campus, setup is permitted 5 hours before kickoff, so plan your arrival accordingly.

Space and Setup

Tailgating is allowed on open campus areas, but setups must remain respectful of shared spaces.

• Tables may not exceed 6 feet in length
• Tents are allowed only in designated areas
• Tailgating equipment cannot occupy parking spaces
• Walkways and sidewalks must remain clear

Prohibited Items on North Campus

The following items are prohibited on UGA's North Campus for safety and crowd management reasons.

• Kegs
• Generators
• Televisions
• Amplified sound or music
• Grills or cookers of any kind
• Household furniture (except folding chairs)

Vehicles and Access

• Vehicles must remain in designated parking spaces
• Parking on sidewalks and landscaped areas is prohibited
• Golf carts or similar vehicles are not allowed in tailgating areas

Clean Up

• Properly dispose of all trash
• Remove all tailgating items after the game
• Follow directions from UGA staff and law enforcement

Keep In Mind

Tailgating policies can vary depending on the area. Review area-specific guidelines before you arrive to be well-prepared on gameday. For more information, visit the official UGA sports website to read through all the tailgating rules and regulations.

Where can I Park and Tailgate Off Campus?

Downtown Athens:

• You'll love being in the middle of all the buzz downtown, with pre-game broadcasts, corporate promotions and plenty of shops and restaurants to keep you occupied. 
• There are multiple decks within walking distance.
• Parking downtown is great for fans who love to pair tailgating with dining or nightlife.

The Classic Center:

• In Downtown Athens, The Classic Center is a very short and direct walk to the stadium along Thomas St.
• Parking at The Classic Center also offers plenty of conveniences and amenities, including indoor restrooms.
• Reserve parking in advance or purchase a full tailgating package.
• A range of parking and tailgate packages are offered for both cars and RVs.
   

Private Tailgate Parks:

Want to always know where your spot will be and have it ready and waiting for you, along with amenities? Consider investing in a private tailgate facility like TailGAte Station.

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO:

What is the Clear Bag Policy?

UGA and Sanford Stadium follow the SEC's Clear Bag Policy. The last thing you want to be faced with is the option of tossing your purse or hiking back to your car.

UGA Gameday Traditions

• Dawg Walk: The team arrives around 2 hours and 15 minutes before kickoff near the Tate Student Center.
• Sanford Stadium entry: Gates open 90 minutes before kickoff.
• Post-game downtown: Celebrate or regroup at Athens' bars, restaurants, and live music venues.

Check out this blog for more information about UGA football's age-old traditions.

What is the Open Container Policy?

• Open containers with alcoholic beverages are prohibited by county ordinance and will be enforced on Athens-Clarke County streets and sidewalks. Read the Athens-Clarke County ordinance 6-3-12 for more information.

• It is unlawful for people under 21 to consume alcohol. Those who are of age are asked to drink responsibly.

What should I bring to bring to a UGA tailgate?

• Portable chairs and tables
• Coolers with food and drinks
• Tents or canopies for shade
• Portable speakers
• Trash bags to clean up

What are the Sights and Sounds of UGA Tailgating?

A Saturday in Athens is as much about the tailgate as it is the football game. Walk through campus and the city and you'll see a sea of red and black, tents lining the streets, the smell of barbecue, tables full of fried chicken, pimento cheese, and other traditional southern dishes. Fans gather around TVs to watch the game. People play music, cornhole, and football while they wait for kickoff. Tailgating helps make the UGA gameday experience memorable.

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