| Camp Randall Stadium Quick Guide | Details |
|---|---|
| Home Team | Wisconsin Badgers (NCAA – Big Ten) |
| Opened | November 3, 1917 |
| Capacity | 76,057 (after 2024 expansion) |
| Best Value Seats | 100-level corner & sideline sections (e.g., Sections D–F, B–H) |
| Premium Seating | Club Seats, Terrace Patio, Loge Boxes, Suites, Field Loges, Touchdown Club |
| Top Stadium Foods | Classic concessions (burgers, mac & cheese, pretzels); alcoholic drinks added in 2024 |
| Nearby Bars | Bars in UW campus area and downtown Madison |
| Closest Hotels | Graduate Madison, Wisconsin Union Hotel, Hilton Garden Inn, Best Western Plus |
| Transit Access | Metro Transit buses; campus parking and gameday shuttles |
| Tradition Highlight | “Jump Around” plays between 3rd and 4th quarters—whole stadium joins in! |
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Camp Randall Stadium Seating Chart
Camp Randall Stadium has a seating capacity of around 80,000 rabid spectators. For a visual representation of the stadium’s seating layout, you can refer to the official Seating Chart:
It’s important to note that ticket availability and prices can vary depending on the game and seat location. It’s recommended to purchase tickets in advance to ensure availability and to compare prices across different ticket marketplaces.
Tickets To Wisconsin Football Games
- Get Wisconsin Football Tickets Here! Through our partnership you can get tickets to Wisconsin Football or just about any event on the planet.
- Wisconsin Athletic Ticket Office: The Wisconsin Athletic Ticket Office is the official ticket office for Wisconsin Badgers football games. They offer a variety of ticket options, including season tickets, single game tickets, and group tickets.
- BadgerSelect.com: The official online ticket office for Wisconsin Athletics. They offer season parking passes for football games, as well as shuttle services to and from Camp Randall Stadium on game day.
- University Alumni Associations: Some university alumni associations offer tickets or access to special seating sections for their members during football games.
- Ticket Packages: Certain travel agencies and tour operators offer ticket packages that include game tickets along with hotel accommodations and other perks.
2025 Wisconsin Football Schedule
Key home games for the 2025 season include:
- August 28: Miami (OH) RedHawks (8:00 PM)
- September 6: Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders (3:00 PM)
- September 20: Maryland Terrapins
- October 11: Iowa Hawkeyes
- October 18: Ohio State Buckeyes
- November 8: Washington Huskies
- November 22: Illinois Fighting Illini
Best Seats At Camp Randall Stadium
Camp Randall Stadium has been the thunderous home of Wisconsin Badgers football since 1895, making it the oldest stadium in the Big Ten Conference. The stadium’s seating is divided into lower-level sections (A through X, plus Y1-Z3 in the south end zone) and upper-level sections (AA through LL), with most seats being traditional bleacher-style seating without chair backs. The lower bowl consists of approximately 70-71 rows per section, while upper sections typically have 22-41 rows depending on location.
Best Seats (Non-Premium)
Lower-level center sections C-G and R-W are your gold standard for non-premium seats. These sections offer prime viewing between the 30-yard lines with excellent sightlines to all the action. The best views come within sections between the 30-yard lines, and these deliver exactly that. Expect to pay premium prices, but you’ll get true midfield positioning without club amenities.
Sections adjacent to the student sections (H, I, Q, X) are also excellent choices. Sitting near the student sections J and P is recommended due to the contagious energy that spreads from students to surrounding sections, creating an authentic Camp Randall experience with the famous “Jump Around” tradition.
Best Value Seats
Upper-level center sections GG-II offer the sweet spot of great views at moderate prices. These sections run 1-41 rows and provide elevated midfield perspectives without the premium lower-level costs. You’ll see every play clearly while saving significantly compared to lower-level equivalents.
Lower-level end zone sections Y2-Z2 also provide excellent value, especially for goal-line action. While not midfield, these seats keep you close to the field and often cost substantially less than sideline seats.
Best Budget Seats
Upper-level end zone sections AA-DD and HH-LL are your most affordable options. These sections have rows 2-22 and still provide decent views of the entire field. Current ticket prices start around $70 for games against lesser opponents, making these accessible for budget-conscious fans.
Corner sections in the upper level (such as AA, DD, HH, LL) offer the cheapest entry points while maintaining reasonable sightlines. There really isn’t a bad seat at Camp Randall Stadium – you can feel the energy from all corners, so even budget seats deliver the full Wisconsin gameday atmosphere.
Premium Seating Options At Camp Randall Stadium
Camp Randall’s premium seating has expanded significantly in recent years, offering everything from club-level amenities to luxury suites. These areas provide the only access to alcoholic beverages in the stadium, along with upscale food options and climate-controlled environments – a welcome relief during Wisconsin’s unpredictable fall weather.
The Varsity Club is your most accessible premium option, located in the northeast corner end zone on the 6th and 7th levels. Seating up to 600 fans, it features cushioned chairs, complimentary gourmet food, non-alcoholic beverages, wait staff, and TV coverage. In-seat food and beverage service is available as an upgrade. This is typically easier to access than the more exclusive Buckingham Club.
The Buckingham Club sits atop the Wisconsin sideline on the 8th level, accommodating 328 guests in theater-style chairs. It offers the same premium amenities as the Varsity Club but with better sightlines due to its midfield location.
South End Zone Premium Areas feature the newest luxury options with color-coded wristband access. These include field loge boxes, ledge seats, and Victory Hall with a bar, fireplace, and video wall. Pricing ranges from $700 for standing-room-only access to the Fifth Quarter Patio up to $4,500 per person for top-tier seats, plus required athletic department donations.
Private Suites are available but limited in number and typically require corporate partnerships or significant donations. Notably, alcoholic beverages are only available in premium areas, as beer isn’t sold in general seating sections.
Camp Randall Stadium Bag Policy
Clear Bag Policy (Updated): Bags that are clear plastic, vinyl or PVC and do not exceed the size limit of 12 inches x 6 inches x 12 inches are permitted.
Acceptable Items:
- 12″ x 6″ x 12″ clear tote OR 1 gallon clear plastic storage bag OR 6.5″ x 4.5″ small bag (small clutch purse)
- Medical bags are permitted and subject to a thorough inspection
- Diaper bags (with child) are permitted and subject to a thorough inspection
- Stadium seats, as long as they do not have arms and are less than 16″ wide
- Blankets and jackets
- Cameras (without bags)
- Binoculars
Wisconsin Football Gameday Guide
Here is an overview of some of the main policies when attending a game in Madison. For a full list of the most up to date rules and regulations check out the Wisconsin fan policies page here. In addition to bag regulations, fans planning to attend should acquaint themselves with additional policies encompassing parking, tailgating, and other essential tips for a smooth and enjoyable game-day experience.
Additional Policies At Camp Randall
Here are essential policies at Camp Randall Stadium that require your attention:
- Alcohol Policy: Bringing alcohol into the stadium is prohibited, and fans found with alcohol may face ejection.
- Cashless Stadium: Camp Randall Stadium is totally cashless, so bring cards or mobile payment options
- Smoking Policy: Smoking, including e-cigarettes and vaping devices, is not allowed in any stadium areas.
- Re-Entry Policy: Re-entry is only permitted for patrons departing due to medical or emergency situations, and a new ticket is required for all re-entries.
- Prohibited Items: Unmanned aircraft systems (drones), weapons, fireworks, and laser pointers are strictly prohibited. Attendees carrying such items may be denied admittance or ejected from the venue.
- Disorderly Conduct: Engaging in violent, threatening, abusive, or disorderly conduct may result in ejection from the stadium.
- Throwing Objects: Throwing objects within the stadium is not allowed and may lead to ejection.
- Lost and Found: Lost items can be turned in or claimed at the Guest Services Booth located at Gate 1.
- First Aid: Certified athletic trainers and emergency medical technicians are available during events, with the First Aid Station situated at Gate 1.
- Service Animals: Service animals for guests with disabilities are permitted, while all other animals are prohibited.
Please be aware that these policies are subject to change, and it is advisable to consult the official Wisconsin Badgers website for the latest updates on fan policies.
Camp Randall Stadium Parking
Parking at Camp Randall Stadium on gameday is notoriously challenging, with over 80,000 fans converging on Madison’s campus infrastructure that wasn’t designed for such massive crowds. Madison is a college town with a population of 255,000 before students, and the road systems aren’t ideal when trying to get 80,000 to the stadium. The university operates over 20 different parking lots around campus, but securing a convenient spot requires planning and patience. All parking locations open at 7 a.m. for noon and 1 p.m. kickoffs, 9 a.m. for 3:30 p.m. kickoffs and 1 p.m. for Saturday evening kickoffs
Season Parking is reserved for donors through the Badger Select system. The minimum contribution to be eligible for football parking is $250, and patrons must submit their annual contribution by March 15th. Season ticket holders get priority based on donation levels and priority points, with the closest lots requiring significant annual giving.
Single-Game Parking is available only on a first-come, first-served basis on game day. Single game parking is available for purchase from lots with availability on a first-come, first-served basis on the day of the game only, with payment made to the lot attendant. Visa, MasterCard, Discover and American Express are accepted.
Parking Costs & Options
These could be low by the time you read this as they seem to increase year after year, but this is as current information as i have as of 2025.
Premium Lots (Closest to Stadium): $20-30
- Lot 16 (southeast of stadium) and Lot 17 (north of stadium) are among the closest
- Lot 17 requires only a short 2-3 minute walk to the stadium gates
Standard Lots: $10-20
- Most campus lots fall into this range
- The cheapest parking at Camp Randall Stadium is the general lot, which costs $10
Distant Lots with Shuttle Service: $10-15 + $8 shuttle fee
- Shuttle service is available from Lots 60, 64, and 76
- The shuttle service is provided by Badger Bus and costs $8 per person round-trip
RV Parking: $50
- Parking for buses, motor homes, and other “over-sized” vehicles is prohibited in all lots except for Lot 64 near the UW Hospital on Walnut Street
- Overnight parking is not allowed in Camp Randall parking lots throughout the campus
Special Accommodations
ADA Parking: $20
- The Athletic Department sells a limited number of permits in levels 1-4 of Lot 17 on a first-come, first-served, single game basis to patrons with a handicapped placard or license plates
- Permits go on sale through the Wisconsin Athletic Ticket Office the Monday before each home game starting at 8:30 a.m., phone sales only
Money-Saving Tips
Free Parking Options:
- Free parking is available in select lots further away from Camp Randall Stadium after 4:30 p.m.
- Free parking may be available in nearby surface lots after 4:30 on weekdays and all weekend
Alternative Transportation:
- Use Madison’s public bus system with trip planner
- Shuttle bus services run to Camp Randall from different areas around campus and from the UW Hospital, costing around $6 round trip
- Consider rideshare services to avoid parking entirely
Downtown Parking Strategy:
- Park in the City of Madison State Street Campus Parking Garage on North Lake Avenue – it’s a 15-20 minute walk but much easier than scavenging for a spot if you’re not a season-ticket holder
- Municipal garages don’t have the early closure requirements of university lots
Essential Parking Tips
- Arrive Early: Traffic and parking fill up quickly, especially for marquee games
- Buy Advance Permits: When possible, purchase parking passes in advance through third-party sites like StubHub or Vivid Seats
- Mobile Passes: Most parking passes are delivered as mobile permits – save them to your mobile wallet before arriving
- Cash Alternative: While lot attendants accept credit cards, having cash as backup is wise
- Plan for Delays: Be aware that there are significant road closures in the city on game day to help traffic flow
- Consider Walking: A longer walk from downtown or residential areas often beats sitting in parking lot traffic
- Tailgate Strategy: If tailgating, factor in setup time when planning your arrival
The key to successful Camp Randall parking is managing expectations and having a backup plan. The stadium experience is worth the parking hassle, but preparation makes all the difference.
Here is a map that shows various lots surrounding the venue.
Wisconsin Gameday Insider Tips
Camp Randall Stadium is one of college football’s most electric venues, where 80,000+ fans create an atmosphere that literally makes the stadium shake during the famous “Jump Around” tradition. Here is an overview and some tips for making the most of gameday at this fantastic college football stadium:
Arrive Early for the Full Experience Stadium gates open at 1 p.m., the Badgers take the field for warm-ups by 1:35 p.m. before their official entrance at 2:25 p.m. Getting there early reduces crowding at gates and gives you time to soak in the atmosphere. About three to 3.5 hours before kickoff is a safe bet if you want the full game day experience.
Navigate the New Security Camp Randall now has new weapons screening at the gates similar to metal detectors, but you won’t have to take anything out of your pockets or drop your bag – just keep walking. All tickets are completely digital, so charge your phone and have tickets ready.
Must-Experience Traditions
“Jump Around” – Bring Ear Protection Camp Randall gets extremely loud. Pack earplugs or over-ear earmuffs for children to protect their hearing, especially during “Jump Around.” This takes place between the third and fourth quarters, and the stadium literally shakes – it’s so intense that the force generated registers on local seismographs.
The Arch March Make sure to snap a picture under Wisconsin’s famous Camp Randall Memorial Arch before the team arrives two hours before kickoff. The “Arch March” has been a tradition since 2003 featuring a procession of Wisconsin football players, coaches and staff.
Fifth Quarter Celebration Stay after the game for Bucky’s Fifth Quarter – the UW-Madison Marching Band delivers a postgame show that lasts between 30 and 45 minutes with about 30,000-40,000 fans remaining to sing and dance.
Student Section Insights
Avoid Student Sections with Young Kids Avoid the student sections (sections J through P) with young children. The end zone opposite the student section is typically more family-friendly. The rivalry between Sections O and P often features a friendly call-and-response of expletives.
Student Energy is Contagious Watch out for a slow-motion version of The Wave started by the students, and cheer along during first downs – they lead many of the stadium’s traditions and create incredible energy.
Weather & What to Bring
Dress in Layers Madison weather can be unpredictable. Dress in layers and check the forecast. Late fall games can be brutal with Wisconsin’s weather, so prepare for cold temperatures. Here is the current weather and forecast in Madison.
Free Family Services Get free ID wristbands for young kids at Guest Services and take advantage of family-friendly amenities throughout the stadium.
Pre-Game Activities
Badger Bash (Free) If you want to be a Badger for a day, come to Badger Bash, the free, all-ages tailgate event on Union South outside Camp Randall Stadium. Starting two and half hours before the game, it includes specialty food and drinks, games, activities, live music, and a chance to meet Bucky Badger.
Marching Band Performance Watch a performance by the UW-Madison Marching Band, who begin an hour and a half prior to kickoff at Badger Bash.
Unique Game Day Traditions to Join
“Build Me Up Buttercup” During breaks in the game, usually in the second or third quarter, fans sing along to The Foundations’ 1968 hit “Build Me Up Buttercup.” The song often cuts out to let the crowd take the lead, so don’t skip a line!
First Down Chant Any time Wisconsin earns a first down, Badgers fans certify the referee’s official ruling by cheering “First and 10 Wisconsin.”
Bucky’s Push-ups Whenever Wisconsin scores, the red-sweatered mascot Bucky Badger takes on the team’s total score in push-ups. The student section leads the stadium in counting each completed rep.
Post Game Tips
Follow the Crowds Following the crowds on foot is often the most efficient way to get around the stadium area and adds to the authentic game day experience!
Embrace the Chaos Expect crowds and plan extra time for everything. Embrace the chaos – it’s all part of the experience! Camp Randall is about community, tradition, and creating lifelong memories beyond just the football game itself.
Fun Bars and Restaurants in Madison
Madison’s pregame scene spreads across several distinct districts, each offering its own flavor of Badger game day celebration, from the raucous Regent Street corridor just blocks from Camp Randall to the iconic State Street pedestrian mall that stretches from campus to the Capitol Square.
Regent Street is the epicenter of pregame activity, transforming into a massive outdoor party on game days. Neighborhood bars on Regent Street transform into massive pregame parties, selling brats and beer to the masses. Located within walking distance of Camp Randall, this strip becomes a sea of red-clad fans as bars convert their parking lots into beer gardens and tailgate zones.
State Street offers a different vibe – this pedestrian-only corridor connects the university to downtown and the Capitol, providing a more diverse mix of restaurants and bars. It’s popular for those who want to start downtown and make the 20-minute walk to the stadium, taking in Madison’s unique atmosphere along the way.
The student neighborhoods around Camp Randall are where the real party energy begins. Mifflin Street is known for its three-story houses and big gravel parking lots, making it the most traditional tailgate scene you’ll find in Madison, while Lathrop Street is just one block west of Camp Randall Stadium and is another very popular spot for students to tailgate with large student houses that tend to host pretty rowdy pre-game parties.
Essential Pregame Bars
Jordan’s Big Ten Pub stands out as a Regent Street institution with a huge lot for tailgaters and a massive Badgers scoreboard over the lot. Located on Regent Street, Jordan’s is a favorite among both Madison locals and University of Wisconsin students for its great drinks and delicious daily food specials, including the famous Friday Fish Fry.
Lucky’s 1313 Brew Pub/SconnieBar is another Regent Street venue that turns its parking lot into a makeshift beer garden for tailgaters. On Game Day this is the obvious choice. Come Celebrate Wisconsin with 1300 other fans. More than 37 TVs ensures you will catch all the action.
State Street Brats has earned legendary status as one of the best places on earth for a brat and is located on the pedestrian-only State Street. The massive space rocks on game days with wings, burgers, sandwiches and vegan and vegetarian options, making it the perfect family spot to watch the game.
The Kollege Klub (KK) remains a campus institution where alumni remember the good old days and current students absolutely love the drinks, central location, music and camaraderie. It opens at 8 a.m. on Game Days so you can get the party started early.
The Stadium Bar & Grill offers the ultimate in convenience, located just across the street from Camp Randall. The bar converts its entire parking lot into a massive beer garden and often hosts live performances.
Must-Visit Madison Restaurants
Ian’s Pizza has achieved cult status with unique flavors that earned it the title of Wisconsin’s Best Pizza by Food Network. Try the classic Mac and Cheese pizza or be spontaneous and go for the “Drunken Ravioli,” which combines vodka marinara sauce, mozzarella, cheese ravioli, butter and asiago.
Dotty Dumpling’s Dowry is a Madison institution favored by the locals for over 40 years, offering award winning hamburgers, homemade soups and chili, fresh salads, Friday fish fry and so much more. Located in the heart of downtown, Dotty’s has been voted Best Burger in Madison for more than 40 years in a row.
The Old Fashioned celebrates Wisconsin’s tavern culture with beer battered cheese curds as essential dining. In addition to burgers, salads, soups, and sandwiches, there are plenty of other cheese-related items including grilled cheese, Wisconsin fondue, and beer soup.
Mickie’s Dairy Bar: A cherished breakfast destination near Camp Randall, known for its classic diner vibe and satisfying Wisconsin comfort food, ideal for energizing before game day activities.
Graze Restaurant provides an upscale option with comfort food classics that raised the bar on gastropub fare by focusing on meats from grass-fed animals, offering waterfront dining with views of Lake Mendota and sophisticated Wisconsin cuisine that showcases local ingredients.
Hotels Near Camp Randall Stadium
Madison has every type of hotel from luxurious retreats to great budget options. Here are some hotels to stay in during a Wisconsin Football Weekend.
Luxury Hotels:
- The Edgewater: This iconic hotel is located on the shores of Lake Mendota and offers stunning lake views, upscale dining options, and luxurious amenities such as a spa and rooftop pool.
- Graduate Madison: A stylish hotel with a unique and vibrant atmosphere, Graduate Madison is within walking distance of the stadium. Enjoy comfortable rooms and a trendy design inspired by the university’s history.
- Madison Concourse Hotel and Governor’s Club: This downtown hotel offers elegant rooms, a fitness center, and a club lounge with complimentary breakfast and evening hors d’oeuvres.
- DoubleTree by Hilton Madison Downtown: This hotel offers contemporary rooms, a fitness center, and an on-site restaurant. It is located in downtown Madison, near several restaurants and attractions.
- The Buckingham Inn: This bed and breakfast offers elegant rooms, a complimentary breakfast, and a convenient location near the University of Wisconsin-Madison campus and downtown Madison.
- Hyatt Place Madison Downtown: This hotel offers spacious rooms, a fitness center, and a complimentary breakfast. It is located in downtown Madison, near several restaurants and attractions.
Budget Hotels:
- AmericInn by Wyndham Madison West: This budget-friendly hotel offers comfortable rooms, a complimentary breakfast, and an indoor pool and hot tub. It is located on the west side of Madison, near several shopping and dining options.
- Hampton Inn & Suites Madison / Downtown: This hotel offers modern rooms, a fitness center, and a complimentary breakfast. It is located in downtown Madison, within walking distance of several restaurants and attractions.
- Best Western West Towne Suites: For a more budget-friendly choice, Best Western West Towne Suites offers comfortable accommodations at an affordable rate. It’s a short drive from Camp Randall Stadium.
- Motel 6 Madison West: A straightforward and economical option, Motel 6 Madison West provides basic amenities at budget-friendly prices. It’s a convenient choice for those seeking affordable lodging near the stadium.
All of the hotels listed above are highly rated and offer a variety of amenities to suit different needs and budgets.
Fun Things to Do in Madison
Here are some of the best things to do in this bustling city that perfectly blend sports, culture, and nature, creating an unforgettable itinerary for your stay.
- Explore the State Capitol: Visit the Wisconsin State Capitol building, an iconic structure with stunning architecture and an observation deck offering panoramic views of the city and its surroundings.
- University of Wisconsin-Madison: Take a stroll through the beautiful campus of the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Don’t miss the Memorial Union Terrace, a favorite spot for students and visitors alike, where you can enjoy lake views, live music, and delicious food.
- Visit the Henry Vilas Zoo: This free zoo is perfect for families and animal enthusiasts. It features a variety of animals and interactive exhibits, making it an enjoyable experience for people of all ages.
- Geology Museum: Located on the University of Wisconsin campus this museum offers a captivating journey through Earth’s geological history. With fossils, minerals, and interactive exhibits, it showcases the dynamic forces that have shaped our planet over millions of years, including awe-inspiring dinosaur skeletons and ancient marine life forms.
- Olbrich Botanical Gardens: Spend a peaceful day at the Olbrich Botanical Gardens, featuring stunning outdoor gardens, a Thai pavilion, and a serene indoor conservatory.
- Madison Museum of Contemporary Art: Art lovers will appreciate this museum’s diverse collection of modern and contemporary art exhibitions.
- Monona Terrace Community and Convention Center: Designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, this architectural gem hosts events and offers beautiful views of Lake Monona.
- State Street: Stroll along State Street, a pedestrian-friendly thoroughfare filled with shops, restaurants, cafes, and live entertainment. It’s a lively place with a unique atmosphere.
- Madison Farmers’ Market: If you’re visiting on a Saturday morning, head to the Capitol Square for the Dane County Farmers’ Market, one of the largest and most renowned farmers’ markets in the country.
- Paddle on the Lakes: This starts to get tough as you get later into the fall. But if the weather is nice, rent a kayak, canoe, or paddleboard to explore the beautiful lakes, Lake Mendota and Lake Monona, which offer fantastic views of the cityscape.
- Bike or Hike at the Lakeshore Path: Enjoy the scenic Lakeshore Path that runs along Lake Mendota’s shoreline, perfect for a leisurely bike ride or walk.
- Chazen Museum of Art: Another gem for art enthusiasts, this museum features an impressive collection of international and American art.
- Devil’s Lake State Park: About 35 miles north of Madison this nearby state park offers excellent opportunities for hiking, rock climbing, and picnicking amidst stunning natural beauty.
.Beyond the game, you can explore historical landmarks, sample great restaurants and bars, enjoy the arts scene, and relax in beautiful outdoor spaces. It’s a chance to embrace Madison’s unique charm. Enjoy! Here are some other great stadiums to check out:
This guide includes insights from personal visits as well as updated info from team sources, fan forums, and stadium policies. We aim to help you plan with confidence — enjoy your gameday.