LSU Tiger Stadium: Insider Tips, Best Seats and More

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LSU Tiger Stadium Seating Chart

Tiger Stadium at LSU currently seats 102,321 fans. It has grown significantly since it first opened in 1924 with only 12,000 seats. Today, it is one of the largest stadiums in the SEC, NCAA, and the world. And should be rocking the next few years with arrival of Lane Kiffin.

One significant expansion occurred in 2012, during which 70 luxurious “Tiger Den” suites, over 3,000 club seats, and more than 1,500 additional general public seats were added. This expansion not only enhanced the stadium’s capacity but also elevated the overall fan experience. Here is a link to the Tiger Stadium Seating Chart as well as the 3D seating chart.

Tickets to LSU Football Games

LSU Football can be a tough ticket, especially for big time SEC games, but with some planning you can usually secure tickets to the game. Here are some ways to get tickets to LSU Football games:

1. Get your LSU Game Tickets Here! You can find tickets to LSU games or any event on the planet through our partnership with Vivid Seats.
2. Official LSU Ticket Office: The first and most reliable option is to visit the official LSU Ticket Office. They offer tickets for all LSU sporting events, including football games. You can purchase tickets online through their website or by contacting their ticket office directly.
3. Season Tickets: LSU typically offers season tickets for home games. These tickets provide access to all the home games during the football season. You can purchase season tickets through the official ticket office, and prices may vary based on seating location.
4. Single-Game Tickets: If you are unable to commit to a full season, single-game tickets are usually available for purchase. These tickets allow you to attend a specific game of your choice. You can check the official website or contact the ticket office for information on availability and pricing.
5. Student Tickets: If you are a student at LSU, there may be special student ticket options available. Check with the university’s student affairs or athletics department for information on student tickets, including any discounts or special promotions.

Always purchase tickets from authorized and reputable sources to ensure the validity of your tickets. Again, LSU football games are very popular, and tickets can sell out quickly. It’s advisable to plan ahead, especially for high-demand games, and purchase tickets as soon as they become available to secure your spot.

Best Seats At Tiger Stadium

LSU’s Tiger Stadium, known as “Death Valley,” is one of college football’s most intimidating venues, with over 102,000 seats creating an electric atmosphere that can reach deafening decibel levels. The stadium’s bowl design means most seats offer decent views, but location significantly impacts both price and experience.

Best Seats: Lower level sections 101-103 and 136-138 (between the 30-yard lines) offer premium sightlines with easy access. Club level seats in sections 201-238 provide the best overall experience with climate control, wider seats, and upscale concessions, though they come at a premium price.

Best Value: Upper deck corners (sections 401-404 and 433-436) deliver excellent elevated views of the entire field at moderate prices. These seats still capture the full Tiger Stadium atmosphere while avoiding the premium costs of midfield locations.

Best Budget Non-Premium: Upper deck end zones (sections 405-410 and 425-432) are your most affordable option while maintaining the authentic LSU experience. The north end zone upper deck is particularly budget-friendly and still offers solid views of the action, plus you’ll be with some of the most passionate fans in the stadium.

For any LSU game, arrive early regardless of your seat location – the pregame atmosphere and Tiger Walk are essential parts of the experience.

Premium and Club Seating

TLSU’s Tiger Stadium premium seating takes the legendary “Death Valley” experience to the next level, offering climate-controlled comfort and upscale amenities while maintaining the electric atmosphere that makes the venue one of college football’s most intimidating stadiums. These club and suite options require significant Tradition Fund or Tiger Athletic Foundation contributions but provide unmatched comfort for LSU’s demanding subtropical climate.

Stadium Club West: Located above Sections 100-106, these premium seats offer an elevated sideline view and access to exclusive club amenities. The West Stadium Club is comprised of over 75,000 square feet and three levels with amenities including covered, spacious exterior seating, modern interior lounge seating, dining tables, private restrooms, exclusive elevator access, and large flat-screen televisions. Members of the Stadium Club also have access to complimentary buffets of appetizers, entrees, desserts, game day snacks, and beverages. These seats provide the perfect sideline perspective between the 30-yard lines with premium comfort.

Stadium Club South: The South Stadium Club seats at LSU’s Tiger Stadium span the entire south endzone. On the LSU seating chart these sections are labeled 550-568. Ticketholders in these sections will have access to the South Stadium Club Lounge which is a climate-controlled area with an exclusive entrance and a private club concourse. The concourse has dining tables and complimentary buffets, appetizers and snacks. While endzone views sacrifice the sideline perspective, you’ll be positioned behind LSU’s bench area.

Louisiana Fish Fry Products Skyline Club: The Louisiana Fish Fry Products Skyline Club is an open-air seating premium club area able to accommodate up to 1,500 fans in sections 650-658 of the south endzone of Tiger Stadium. Included in the ticket cost is a rotating all-you-can-eat buffet of Louisiana Fish Fry menu items and one free beverage. This option provides the premium amenities while keeping you closer to the outdoor stadium atmosphere.

Tiger Den Suites: Private luxury suites accommodate 15-20 guests and include multiple comfortable seating options such as couches, loveseats, bar stools, and stadium seats. You can also expect to see TVs, a kitchenette, a closet for your belongings, and ample countertops and tables, with five-star catering available for purchase.

All premium seating requires Tiger Athletic Foundation contributions and typically includes chairback seats, climate control, exclusive entrances, and elevated food service – essential comforts when experiencing the intensity of a Louisiana Saturday night game.

LSU Tiger Stadium Bag Policy

• LSU Tiger Stadium implements a clear bag policy to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all fans.
• Clear bags smaller than 12” x 6” x 12” or one-gallon plastic freezer bags are allowed.
• Medical and diaper bags must not exceed 14” x 14” x 6”.
• Soft-sided bags no larger than 14” x 14” x 6” are permitted.
• All bags are subject to search before entry.

LSU Football Gameday Guide

We want everyone to have a fun and safe time at LSU Tiger Stadium. Here are some policies at the stadium from the Bag policy to parking to rules about the legendary tailgating scene. For a full list of all policies, check the LSU website. Here is an overview:

Additional Policies
In addition to the bag policy, there are several other policies and procedures you need to be aware of when attending a game at Tiger Stadium:

• Alcohol: Alcohol is not allowed in the stadium, and violators are subject to ejection. However you will find that you can bring alcohol in the stadium if you do it the right way. I think we all know that.
• Animals: Animals are not allowed in the stadium, except for service animals.
• Banners and Signs: Banners and signs recognizing businesses or promotional/commercial materials may not be displayed without prior approval by LSU Administration.
• Clothing: Fans must wear appropriate clothing, and clothing with profane or abusive language is not allowed.
• Noise Makers: Artificial noise makers are not allowed in the stadium (looking at you Miss State).
• Smoking: Smoking is not allowed in the stadium.
• Throwing Objects: Throwing objects onto the field or within the stadium is not allowed.
• Re-entry: Re-entry is not allowed once you leave the stadium.
• Cash Venue: As of this writing, Tiger Stadium still accepts cash for vendors and parking.

Parking For LSU Football Games

Parking at LSU’s Tiger Stadium is a strategic game within the game, requiring advance planning and local knowledge to navigate one of college football’s most challenging parking situations. Parking lots open at 7:00am on game day, and LSU Athletics has developed a custom Waze gameday traffic map for real-time updates.

Official Parking Options:

Reserved Parking (5 Color-Coded Zones): LSU uses a color-coded zone system (Pink, Green, Orange, Blue, Gold) to help fans identify permitted lots, provide directional assistance, and understand traffic flow patterns. These require purchasing permits in advance.

Free Parking: Several free lots exist, mainly south of the stadium including Old Front Nine, Levee Lot South, Hayfield Lot, South Gourrier Lot, and Golf Course Areas (marked purple on official maps). These fill up fast and require 15+ minute walks, so arrive early.

Insider Tips:

Buy Parking Passes in Advance: Purchase permits directly from LSU or through secondary markets like StubHub to avoid gameday hassles and guarantee a spot.

Smart Alternative Parking: Park at Dalrymple and State Street at University Presbyterian Church or Lutheran Church ($20 donation). Both offer quick post-game exits with less traffic congestion than Nicholson Drive area, plus you’re near North Gate dining and campus bookstore.

Traffic Flow Strategy: About 90 minutes before kickoff, police direct one-way traffic toward the stadium on key roads. For early arrivals, try the Golf Course lot near LSU Tennis Center (5-minute walk) or Gymnasium practice arena lot (10-minute walk).

Avoid These Areas: North/South/West Stadium Drives close to all traffic on game days. Never park along Nicholson Drive shoulders between West Chimes and Brightside – you’ll be towed. Avoid crossing railroad tracks except at designated crossings.

Alternative Strategy: Park at Pastime Restaurant on South Street and take their shuttle to avoid traffic entirely, though this puts you on the wrong side of campus for post-game departure.

Free ADA Parking: Lot 406 behind Tiger Park offers free ADA parking with shuttle service to the stadium on a first-come basis.

Tailgating: The legendary LSU tailgating happens throughout campus, with prime spots on the Parade Grounds (claimed early by fraternities), along Nicholson Drive, and in most parking lots. Fraternity Row and areas near the baseball field are popular tailgating zones.

The key to success: arrive early, have backup plans, use Waze for real-time updates, and consider walking from off-campus spots to avoid the notorious post-game traffic gridlock.

LSU Tiger Stadium Gameday Tips

Tiger Stadium isn’t just about surviving the 100,000+ crowd and Louisiana heat – it’s about mastering the art of experiencing “Saturday Night in Death Valley” like a seasoned local. These insider tips come from decades of fan wisdom and will transform your game day from stressful to spectacular.

Transportation & Parking Hacks

The Pastime Secret Weapon: Skip the campus parking nightmare entirely by heading to The Pastime restaurant under the I-10 bridge. This 50+ year institution runs reliable shuttles to every home game, includes parking, and serves legendary pizza. Locals know this is often faster than driving to campus, plus you avoid the post-game traffic snarls that can trap you for hours.

Church Parking Gold Mine: University Presbyterian Church and the Lutheran church at Dalrymple and State Street charge only $20 donations and put you walking distance from North Gate dining and tailgating. The real hack: these lots empty quickly after games while campus lots create hour-long traffic jams.

The Railroad Track Shortcut Warning: Never cross the active railroad tracks running through campus except at designated crossings (Skip Bertman Drive and Gourrier Avenue). Locals know the train schedule conflicts with game traffic, and LSU police will ticket jaywalkers.

Early Bird Golf Course Strategy: Arrive before 10 AM and head straight to the Golf Course lots near the Tennis Center. These fill fast but offer some of the shortest walks to the stadium (5 minutes) and quickest post-game escapes.

Weather & Comfort Survival

The Louisiana Heat Hack: September and early October games can hit 95°F with crushing humidity. Experienced fans freeze water bottles solid and use them as portable air conditioners, then drink them as they melt. Stadium vendors often run out of water by halftime during hot games.

Thunderstorm Game Day Protocol: Louisiana afternoon storms are inevitable. Locals pack ponchos (not umbrellas – they’re banned inside) and know that lightning delays mean the crowd gets more intense when play resumes. The stadium drains well, but expect soggy conditions.

Night Game Clothing Strategy: Temperature can drop 20 degrees between kickoff and the fourth quarter. Layer up – you’ll want shorts at 6 PM and a jacket by 10 PM.

Food & Drink Insider Knowledge

Tailgate Etiquette Gold Rule: LSU fans are genuinely hospitable, especially to first-timers and opposing fans showing respect. A simple “Geaux Tigers!” often earns you food and drinks from strangers. Avoid the fraternity areas on Parade Grounds if you’re wearing opposing colors.

Campus Food Timing: Hit Mike Anderson’s, Walk-On’s, or The Chimes before 11 AM or after 2 PM to avoid the crushing lunch crowds. Locals know to eat early because stadium concessions are overpriced and lines are brutal.

Secret Alcohol Strategy: While you can’t bring alcohol into the stadium, many fans pre-game heavily at tailgates, then use the “quarter system” – leaving at quarters to hit nearby bars like Fred’s or The Chimes for quick drinks before returning.

Stadium Experience Hacks

Student Section Energy: Even if you’re not a student, sitting near sections 105-106 and 202-205 gives you the wildest atmosphere. The students create most of the noise that makes Tiger Stadium legendary, and their energy is infectious.

Mike the Tiger Viewing Strategy: Mike VII’s habitat is across from the stadium near the LSU Sports Shop. He’s most active in the morning and evening – not during the hot afternoon hours when most fans visit.

Bathroom and Concession Timing: Hit facilities during the middle of quarters, never between quarters when everyone moves at once. The lines at halftime are 20+ minutes long.

Victory Hill March Positioning: The Golden Band from Tigerland marches down Victory Hill about 2 hours before kickoff. Position yourself near the Greek Amphitheater for the best viewing of their warm-ups and march.

Cultural & Social Hacks

Tiger Walk Timing: Players arrive about 2 hours before kickoff. The Tiger Walk happens on North Stadium Drive, but savvy fans know to position themselves near the team buses rather than fighting crowds at the stadium entrance.

“Tiger Bait” Response: If you’re wearing opposing colors, you’ll hear this chant constantly. The proper response is good-natured acknowledgment – LSU fans respect visitors who can take the ribbing with a smile.

Post-Game Escape Routes: Northbound traffic flows much better than southbound after games. If you’re heading south, consider going north first to River Road, then doubling back once you’re away from campus.

Waze Game Day Integration: LSU Athletics partnered with Waze for real-time traffic and parking updates. Use the custom gameday map feature – it’s updated throughout the day and often reveals parking spots others miss.

Money-Saving Secrets

Season Ticket Holder Connections: Many season ticket holders sell individual games at face value through LSU message boards rather than dealing with StubHub fees. Check TigerDroppings.com marketplace sections.

Parking Pass Timing: Secondary market parking passes often drop in price 2-3 hours before kickoff as sellers get desperate. This is risky but can save $20-40 for less popular games.

Free ADA Shuttle Service: If you qualify, Lot 406 offers free ADA parking with shuttle service to the stadium. Limited spaces, first-come basis, but saves significant money over reserved parking.

The ultimate LSU game day hack: embrace the chaos rather than fighting it. Tiger Stadium on Saturday night is controlled madness – the traffic, crowds, and intensity are all part of what makes it a top-5 college football experience. Plan for delays, pack patience, and remember that everyone around you is there for the same reason: to be part of something truly special in college sports.

Hotels Near Tiger Stadium

Baton Rouge offers a diverse range of accommodations that cater to everyone from die-hard LSU fans wanting to stumble home after celebrating a victory to business travelers seeking luxury amenities downtown. The city’s hotel landscape reflects its dual identity as both a college town and Louisiana’s capital, with properties clustered around three main areas: near the LSU campus for game day convenience, downtown along the Mississippi River for a more sophisticated urban experience, and along major highways for budget-conscious travelers.

During football season, particularly for big SEC matchups, booking well in advance is essential as the entire city transforms into Tiger territory and rooms become premium commodities. Most visitors find that staying closer to campus offers the best access to game day festivities, though downtown properties provide a quieter retreat with easy access to the city’s cultural attractions and fine dining scene. Here are the best places close to LSU Tiger Stadium:

Hotels Near Tiger Stadium

The Cook Hotel and Conference Center at LSU – The crown jewel of campus accommodations, this upscale hotel sits directly on LSU’s campus and is operated by the university’s hospitality program. Students provide service as part of their education, creating a unique experience. The modern rooms, on-site Lod Cook Alumni Center, and unbeatable proximity to Tiger Stadium make it the top choice for those wanting to be in the heart of Tiger Nation.

Hampton Inn & Suites Baton Rouge – I-10 East – Just minutes from campus, this reliable chain hotel offers modern amenities, complimentary breakfast, and easy highway access. The outdoor pool and fitness center provide good value, and the location allows quick access to both campus and downtown without the premium pricing of on-campus lodging.

Hilton Baton Rouge Capitol Center – While technically downtown, this hotel’s central location makes it equally convenient for campus visits and exploring the city. The upscale property features river views from higher floors, a rooftop pool, and sophisticated dining options that attract both business travelers and discerning football fans.

Great Hotels in Baton Rouge

The Watermark Baton Rouge – This boutique hotel in downtown’s Arts District offers the city’s most luxurious accommodations with individually designed rooms, a rooftop bar with Mississippi River views, and proximity to the Shaw Center for the Arts. The property perfectly balances Southern charm with modern sophistication.

Marriott Baton Rouge – A full-service hotel in the heart of downtown with elegant rooms, multiple dining options, and extensive meeting facilities. The location puts you within walking distance of the State Capitol, Louisiana Art & Science Museum, and the best of downtown’s dining scene.

Mid-Tier Options

Courtyard by Marriott Baton Rouge Downtown – Modern amenities at reasonable prices with a downtown location that’s convenient to both campus and business districts. The on-site restaurant and 24-hour fitness center add value without breaking the budget.

Home2 Suites by Hilton Baton Rouge City Center – Extended-stay style suites with kitchenettes, perfect for families or longer visits. The complimentary breakfast and evening social hours provide good value, plus the downtown location offers walkability to restaurants and attractions.

Drury Inn & Suites Baton Rouge – Known for their generous complimentary amenities including hot breakfast, evening snacks, and drinks. The chain’s consistent quality and value-added services make it popular with both leisure and business travelers.

Budget Options

La Quinta Inn Baton Rouge – Clean, comfortable rooms at affordable rates with complimentary breakfast and pet-friendly policies. Multiple locations around the city provide options for staying near campus or downtown depending on your priorities.

Red Roof Inn Baton Rouge – Basic but reliable accommodations with rock-bottom rates, especially appealing for game day visitors who plan to spend minimal time in their rooms. The Highland Road location offers reasonable access to campus.

Motel 6 Baton Rouge – No-frills lodging that gets the job done for budget-conscious travelers. While amenities are minimal, the clean rooms and central locations provide a place to sleep without the premium pricing of game day weekends.

Pro tip: During LSU football season, even budget properties can triple their rates and require minimum stays, so booking months in advance is crucial for both availability and reasonable pricing.

Bars and Restaurants Near LSU Tiger Stadium

Before kickoff at Tiger Stadium, Baton Rouge comes alive with an electric energy that’s uniquely Louisiana. The Tigerland area near campus buzzes with college crowds and affordable drinks, while downtown Baton Rouge offers a more sophisticated scene along the Mississippi River. The Chimes Street corridor provides a perfect middle ground with its mix of sports bars and local hangouts. Most locals will tell you that the real magic happens in the campus tailgating lots, where elaborate setups with crawfish boils, jambalaya, and brass bands create an unmatched pre-game atmosphere.

Essential Game Day Bars

The Chimes – This LSU institution has been serving Tigers fans since 1983, featuring over 150 beers and walls covered in LSU memorabilia. The massive outdoor patio fills up hours before kickoff with alumni sharing stories and students getting pumped up. Their famous “Death Valley” burger is a game day ritual.

Fred’s Bar in Tigerland – One of our absolute faves. A college dive bar that embodies the raw energy of Tiger gameday. Expect packed crowds, cheap drinks, and chants that’ll prepare you for the stadium atmosphere. It’s cash-only and gets incredibly crowded, but that’s part of the authentic experience.

Walk-On’s Bistreaux & Bar – Founded by former LSU walk-on players, this Louisiana chain’s flagship location offers elevated pub food with a serious sports atmosphere. Multiple screens ensure you won’t miss any pre-game coverage, and their crawfish etouffee nachos are legendary.

Baton Rouge Restaurants

Mike Anderson’s Seafood – A Baton Rouge institution since 1975, famous for their dark roux seafood gumbo and fresh Gulf oysters. The casual atmosphere and consistently excellent Creole cuisine make it perfect for a pre-game meal that’ll give you a true taste of Louisiana.

The Chimes Restaurant – Beyond being a great bar, The Chimes serves some of the city’s best po-boys and their famous alligator tail appetizer. Their red beans and rice on Mondays is a local tradition, and the portion sizes ensure you’ll be fueled for hours of cheering.

Parrain’s Seafood Restaurant – Known for their massive seafood platters and authentic Cajun atmosphere. Their crawfish bisque and barbecue shrimp are standouts, and the family-owned restaurant has been serving LSU fans for generations.

Pro Tips

• Arrive early: Popular spots fill up 3-4 hours before kickoff, especially for big SEC matchups
• Bring cash: Many local establishments prefer cash, and it speeds up service during busy times
• Embrace the purple and gold: Wearing LSU gear gets you instant camaraderie with locals
• Try the local specialties: Don’t leave without trying boudin, crawfish, or a proper po-boy
• Plan transportation: Traffic and parking become nightmarish close to game time – consider ride shares or walking from downtown

The key to a great LSU game day is immersing yourself in the passionate local culture. Baton Rouge natives take their football seriously, but they’ll welcome visiting fans who show respect for their traditions and enthusiasm for good food and good times.

Things To Do In Baton Rouge

1. Tailgate Like a Champion: Get the ultimate pre-game experience by joining the lively tailgating scene around Tiger Stadium. Feast on mouthwatering Louisiana cuisine, mingle with passionate fans, and soak in the festive atmosphere. Don’t forget to wear your purple and gold and join in the spirited chants of “Geaux Tigers!”
2. Explore the Louisiana State Capitol: Take a break from the football frenzy and visit the Louisiana State Capitol, a stunning architectural gem and the tallest state capitol building in the United States. Enjoy panoramic views from the observation deck, admire the intricate details of the building, and learn about Louisiana’s political history.
3. Stroll through the LSU Rural Life Museum: Immerse yourself in the past at the LSU Rural Life Museum, a fascinating open-air museum that showcases Louisiana’s rural heritage. Explore the restored historic buildings, see traditional crafts, and gain insights into the daily lives of early Louisiana settlers.
4. Indulge in Cajun and Creole Cuisine: Treat your taste buds to the flavors of Louisiana with a culinary adventure through Baton Rouge. From spicy jambalaya and gumbo to succulent crawfish and fried catfish, the city is a haven for Cajun and Creole cuisine. Don’t miss out on iconic local restaurants like Parrain’s Seafood Restaurant and The Chimes.
5. Visit the Louisiana Art and Science Museum: Expand your horizons at the Louisiana Art and Science Museum, where art, science, and culture converge. Explore the diverse exhibits featuring fine art, interactive science displays, and fascinating planetarium shows. It’s a great place to unwind and indulge in a different kind of exploration.
6. Enjoy the Baton Rouge Riverfront: Take a leisurely stroll along the scenic Baton Rouge Riverfront, located along the Mississippi River. Enjoy picturesque views, relax in the green spaces, and catch the sunset over the water. The riverfront also offers dining options, live music, and occasional events.

Whether it’s your first time visiting Baton Rouge or you’re a lifelong LSU fan, Tiger Stadium delivers one of the most unforgettable gameday experiences in college football. From tailgating under the oaks to the roar of over 100,000 fans at nightfall, few venues match the intensity of Death Valley.

We continually update each section based on what fans report back each season. Here are a few other great SEC destinations. Go Tigers!

Arkansas

Texas A&M

Alabama

Clemson 2025

Texas

Written by Brad Richards, Founder of Gameday Guides. 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.