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Best Seats At Rice-Eccles Stadium
Rice-Eccles Stadium sits at 4,637 feet on the University of Utah campus, backed by the Wasatch Mountains and overlooking downtown Salt Lake City — it’s one of the most visually stunning settings in college football. The 51,444-seat venue opened in 1998, hosted the Opening and Closing Ceremonies of the 2002 Winter Olympics, and has been one of the toughest places to play in college football for two decades. The Utes have strung together 90-plus consecutive sellouts dating back to 2010, and the 2021 completion of the Ken Garff Red Zone enclosed the south end zone and turned the bowl into a noise trap.
One honest reality: this is a dry stadium — no alcohol is sold inside for football games — so plan your pregame accordingly. That said, the atmosphere inside more than makes up for it, and this guide will help you find the best seat to experience it.
Seating Guide
Rice-Eccles runs a north-south field orientation with a fully enclosed bowl since the 2021 south end zone expansion. Capacity is 51,444 across lower-level sections, an upper concourse, the Ken Garff Red Zone south end zone, and premium levels on the west side tower. Sections use a letter prefix to indicate which side you’re on — E for east, W for west, S for south, and N for north. The difference between a great seat and an average one here mostly comes down to sideline proximity and whether you’re on the Utah side (east) or the visitor side (west).
Best Non-Premium Seats
Sections E30-E33 (East Sideline, Midfield): These bleacher sections sit on the Utah sideline between the 30-yard lines, putting you right in the heart of the home crowd action. You’ll have a direct view of the Utah bench and the massive south end zone videoboard in your sightline. The tradeoff is these are bleacher seats — no backs — and they’re some of the most in-demand non-premium seats in the building, so they command higher resale prices.
Sections W15-W18 (West Sideline, Midfield): The west side midfield sections offer comparable sightlines to the east side with the added bonus of facing the Wasatch Mountains as your backdrop. These sections sit above the press box level and include some chairback “Red Seat” rows closer to the field. You’re on the visitor side of the field here, but well away from the designated visitor sections, so the crowd is still overwhelmingly Utah fans.
Sections E28-E29 (East Side, Between 20 and 30-Yard Line): Still on the Utah sideline with excellent field views, and a step down in price from the midfield sections. You sacrifice a few yards of midfield positioning but gain a better angle to the north end zone plays. Rows 1-20 in these sections put you close enough to the field to feel the hits.
Best Value Seats
First 15-20 Rows of Sections E28-E32: The lower rows of the east side bleachers between the 20s are the sweet spot for value at Rice-Eccles. You’re close enough to see facial expressions, you’re on the home sideline surrounded by diehards, and you’re paying bleacher-seat prices for what feels like a premium experience. You give up chairbacks and legroom, but the proximity and atmosphere more than compensate.
Budget Options For Ute Games
Upper Rows of North End Zone Sections (N1-N6): The north end zone is the cheapest way into Rice-Eccles for most games. You’re behind the goal post, which isn’t ideal for watching drives at the opposite end of the field, but you’ve got a clear view of the giant south end zone videoboard and you’re in the thick of some of the stadium’s loudest fans. The North End Zone (NEZ) has developed its own identity as a supporters-style section in recent years. Standing room tickets, when available, are even cheaper and put you on the concourse level.
Our Pick
Sections E30-E32, Rows 10-25. If you’re visiting Rice-Eccles for the first time, these east sideline bleacher sections near midfield are the move. You’ll be surrounded by the most passionate segment of the regular (non-student) crowd, you’re on the Utah sideline with a perfect view of the team bench, and you’re positioned to take in the full spectacle — the MUSS erupting in the southeast corner, the Wasatch Mountains rising behind the west stands, and the Moment of Loudness that’ll give you chills between the third and fourth quarters. Rent a chairback for $10 at the northwest or southeast concourse stations and you’ll be set.
Weather & Shade Reality
Rice-Eccles faces roughly north-south, with the west side catching afternoon sun during early-season day games (September and early October). For noon or 2 PM kickoffs, the east side will get shade first as the sun drops behind the west tower and press box. Late-afternoon and evening games — which make up most of the marquee Big 12 schedule — are a non-issue since the sun is low or gone by kickoff. September games at 4,600+ feet can start warm and finish cold fast once the sun drops behind the mountains. Bring layers even if it’s 75 degrees at kickoff.
What to Avoid (and What’s Worth Trying Once)
Sections W11-W13 (Visiting Team Sideline): Unless you’re actively rooting for the visitors, steer clear. These sections sit directly in front of the visiting team bench and are where the opposing fan base clusters. You’ll be surrounded by away fans, and the energy is noticeably different from the rest of the stadium.
Sections W6-W9 (Designated Visitor Sections): The official visitor sections are in the west side corner approaching the north end zone. Same issue — designed to isolate visiting fans. The atmosphere for a Utah supporter is dead compared to the east side. If you accidentally end up here wearing red, you’ll have a long afternoon.
Worth It Once — The MUSS (Sections E38-E42): If you’re a current University of Utah student or can get a MUSS pass, the southeast corner student section is one of the best experiences in college football. The Mighty Utah Student Section (MUSS) stands the entire game, does the Third Down Jump on every opposing third down, and generates a wall of noise that regularly causes false starts. The sightlines from the corner aren’t great for the opposite end zone, and you’ll be standing on aluminum bleachers for three-plus hours. But it’s the kind of atmosphere you remember for years. If you’re not a student, sitting adjacent to the MUSS in sections E36-E37 gets you close to the energy without needing a pass.
Premium Seating & Clubs
The 2021 Ken Garff Red Zone expansion transformed the south end zone from the last remnant of the old stadium into a five-level premium facility. It added 19 luxury suites, 44 loge boxes, and multiple club and terrace levels, plus the Layton Field Club and Diglisic Lounge at field level. The west side tower houses the original premium infrastructure — the Cleone and Spence Eccles Scholarship Box on Level 4 (450 seats, eight suites, indoor-outdoor seating) and 17 additional suites on the Mezzanine Level 5.
The Best Club — Layton Field Club (South End Zone, Field Level): This is the crown jewel of the Ken Garff Red Zone. Located at field level in the south end zone, the Layton Field Club offers an indoor-outdoor experience with a patio that puts you steps from the playing surface. It includes premium food and beverage service and a recruiting lounge atmosphere. This is the closest thing to an NFL-caliber club experience in the Big 12.
Best Value Club — Premium Terrace Seats (South End Zone): The Premium Terrace sections in the Ken Garff Red Zone include all-you-can-eat concessions at two dedicated stands on that level. You get chairback seating, a premium concourse, and the included food makes the price jump over standard tickets more reasonable than it first appears. It’s a solid middle ground between regular seats and full club access.
Other Notable Premium Options: The Diglisic Lounge in the south end zone provides a more intimate premium space. Loge boxes (44 available) offer semi-private four-to-six person setups with dedicated food service — a popular option for small groups who want premium without the full suite commitment. The Eccles Scholarship Box on the west side Level 4 remains the prestige suite level with its panoramic glass overlooking the Wasatch Range and downtown Salt Lake City.
Suites & Group Options: Rice-Eccles has a combined 40+ suites across the west tower and Ken Garff Red Zone, accommodating up to 24 guests per suite. They’re popular with corporate groups and university donors. Pricing varies significantly by opponent — expect BYU and Colorado rivalry games to command a steep premium
Rice-Eccles Stadium Seating Chart
The seating chart for Rice-Eccles Stadium at the University of Utah offers a range of seating options for attendees, providing views of the field from various angles and levels. Capacity of Rice Eccles Stadium is 51,444. For a detailed view of the stadium’s seating layout and to choose your preferred seats, you can visit the official seating chart on the University of Utah Athletics website: Rice-Eccles Stadium Seating Chart.
Utah Football Tickets
Utah has sold out 90-plus consecutive home games since 2010, so this isn’t a market where you stroll up to the box office and grab good seats on game day. For most games, you’re looking at the secondary market. The good news is that not every game commands the same demand. BYU and Colorado are the premium-priced rivalry games — expect to pay a significant markup. A mid-tier Big 12 opponent on a noon kickoff will be dramatically cheaper, and you can often find bleacher seats at or below face value on resale platforms.
Season ticket holder resale is a real factor here. Utah has a massive and loyal season ticket base, but holders who can’t make every game regularly dump tickets on the secondary market. Prices tend to drop in the 48-72 hours before kickoff, especially for non-marquee opponents. For most regular-season games, the secondary market through our partner at Vivid Seats typically beats face value, especially for upper-level and end zone seats.
Standing room tickets are the last resort and sometimes the only option for sold-out rivalry games. They get you in the building and on the concourse, but you won’t have a dedicated seat. Arrive early to stake out a spot along the concourse railings with a field view.
Rice-Eccles Stadium Bag Policy
Rice-Eccles enforces a strict clear bag policy. You can bring one clear bag no larger than 12″ x 12″ x 6″ or a 1-gallon Ziploc-style bag, plus a small clutch or purse no larger than 6.5″ x 4.5″ for privacy items. No backpacks, purses, duffel bags, or non-clear bags of any kind. Diaper bags are permitted with an infant present but will be searched. Medical supply bags are also allowed with inspection. Every main gate has a no-bag express lane that moves significantly faster — if you can go without a bag, do it.
Key Venue Policies
Cashless Venue. Rice-Eccles is fully cashless — all concessions, merchandise, and transactions require credit/debit cards, Apple Pay, or Google Wallet. ATMs have been removed from the stadium. If you only carry cash, you’re stuck. There are no cash-to-card kiosks inside.
One Factory-Sealed Water Bottle Allowed. You can bring one sealed bottle of water (1 liter or less) per person. It cannot be frozen. Empty reusable water bottles (1 liter or less) are also permitted — you can fill them at water stations inside. This is a nice perk that most stadiums don’t offer.
Re-Entry Not Permitted. Once you leave the stadium, you cannot re-enter. Make sure you have everything you need before going through the gates.
For a full updated list of all polices check the Utah Athletics website.
Rice-Eccles Stadium Parking
Rice-Eccles is on the University of Utah campus on the east side of Salt Lake City, about 3 miles east of downtown. The address is 451 South 1400 East, Salt Lake City, UT 84112 (for your GPS/Google Map purposes). Getting there is straightforward, but gameday traffic is a reality.
Driving & Parking. From I-15, take the 600 South exit east, then go south on 700 East and east on 400 South — the stadium will be on your left. Parking on campus requires a pass for most lots, and premium spots sell out to season ticket holders.
Guardsman Lot is the heart of the tailgate scene but fills fast. Street parking in surrounding residential neighborhoods fills up quickly and may have restrictions — check signs carefully. The smart play: park at a TRAX station or a downtown lot and ride the train in. If you insist on driving to campus, arrive at least 3 hours early.
TRAX Light Rail (Strongly Recommended). The UTA TRAX Red Line stops at Stadium Station, which is directly west of Rice-Eccles — a 3 to 5 minute walk to the gates. The Red Line runs from the University of Utah Medical Center all the way to South Jordan/Daybreak, with 26 stations along the route. Park at any TRAX station and ride in. Your game ticket doubles as your fare on all UTA transit for the entire day, so it’s literally free. After the game, trains queue up at Stadium Station waiting for fans. The ride from downtown is about 15 to 20 minutes. This is the single best piece of gameday advice for visitors.
Rideshare. Uber and Lyft both work well for getting to Rice-Eccles, though expect surge pricing around kickoff and immediately after the game. Lyft has a designated pickup zone on 500 South, southwest of the stadium. All other rideshares pick up on 1300 East between the S.J. Quinney College of Law and Presidents Circle. Drop-offs are on 500 South as well. Budget $15-25 from downtown before surge. After the game, walk a few blocks away from the stadium to reduce your wait and surge pricing.
Walking & Biking. If you’re staying near campus or downtown, walking is viable — it’s about a 40-minute walk from Temple Square. Bicycle racks are located at various spots around the stadium. The campus is bike-friendly, and it’s a pleasant ride on a fall afternoon.
Rice-Eccles Stadium Insider Tips
Rice-Eccles on a fall Saturday is everything you want from a college football gameday — a loud, enclosed bowl at altitude with mountain views, passionate fans who’ve been tailgating since dawn, and traditions that feel organic rather than manufactured. The tailgate scene here is massive, beer and hard seltzers are available inside the stadium, and the TRAX light rail system makes the whole experience surprisingly accessible for a campus stadium. Opposing coaches have called it one of the best atmospheres in the sport — former USC coach Clay Helton described it as “a phenomenal place to play, an electric atmosphere.” Here’s what you need to know.
Getting In & Out
Arrive 90 minutes early and use Gate L. Gates open 90 minutes before kickoff. Gate L, on the southeast corner at 500 South, has the most staff and ticket scanners and handles the highest volume of traffic. It’s also the closest gate to the MUSS section and the Guardsman Lot tailgate area. If you’re parked north of the stadium, Honda Gate G on the northeast corner off South Campus Drive is your fastest entry. Every main gate has a no-bag express lane — use it if you can.
TRAX is your best exit strategy (see more about Trax above) The Stadium TRAX station is directly west of Rice-Eccles. After the game, multiple trains queue up at the platform waiting for fans. If you drove and parked at a TRAX station downtown or along the Red Line, you’ll be on a train and moving while the parking lots are still gridlocked. Your game ticket works as your fare on all UTA transit the day of the game — that’s free rides on TRAX, bus, and S-Line all day.
If you’re driving out, be patient. Post-game traffic around the stadium is brutal, especially south on Guardsman Way and west on 500 South. Give it 20-30 minutes after the final whistle before trying to move your car. Walk back to campus or a nearby bar and let the worst of it clear.
Food & Drink
Use the Utah 360 app to skip concession lines. The Utah 360 app lets you order ahead from any concession stand and pick up without waiting in line. Dedicated mobile order pickup windows are at Stand 32 on the east side and Stand 15 on the west side. The grab-and-go concession stand near Gate D on the west side uses AI-powered touchless checkout — it’s the fastest option for a quick snack.
Beer and hard seltzers are sold inside the stadium. Utah began selling alcohol at Rice-Eccles for football games in 2024, ending decades as a dry venue. Beer and hard seltzers are available at designated concession stands throughout the stadium. Sales are limited to two drinks per transaction, you’ll need a valid ID, and sales cut off at the end of the third quarter. Local craft options from breweries like Squatters and Wasatch Brewery are typically available alongside national brands.
Premium Terrace concessions are all-you-can-eat. If you have Premium Terrace seats in the Ken Garff Red Zone, your ticket includes unlimited food at the two concession stands on that level. That’s a significant value if you’re a grazer or bringing the family.
Bring a water bottle — sealed or empty. Utah’s high altitude and low humidity will dehydrate you faster than you expect, especially at September games when temps can still hit the 80s. You can bring one factory-sealed water bottle (1 liter or less) OR one empty reusable water bottle — Nalgene, Hydroflask, whatever you’ve got — and fill it inside. The stadium has 44 water bottle refill dispensers spread across 10 locations throughout the concourse, so you can refill all game long. Take advantage of this — most stadiums don’t allow reusable bottles at all.
Tailgating & Pregame
Guardsman Lot is the epicenter. Located southeast of the stadium off Guardsman Way, this is where the serious tailgating happens. Tailgate Island within Guardsman Lot is the party — food trucks, live music, and a dense crowd of fans grilling and socializing. Premium lots open at 6 AM; regular lots open about five hours before kickoff. Arrive 2.5-3 hours before game time for the best experience.
Tailgate Way on 500 South runs along the south side of the stadium and provides another lively pregame zone with easy access to Gate L. If you’re coming from a TRAX station or downtown, this is the scene you’ll walk through on your way to the gates.
The Ute Walk and “The Arrival” are worth catching. The team walks from the football facility on Guardsman Way to Gate L before every home game. Gathering at Gate L about two hours before kickoff puts you in position to greet the team buses, grab free food and live music at “The Arrival” event, and snag one of the exclusive game-specific t-shirts given to the first 75 fans. It’s a great way to start your gameday and one of the more interactive team arrival experiences in college football.
Traditions & Culture
The Moment of Loudness. Between the first and second quarters of every home game, the stadium goes dark. Fans hold up their phone flashlights and raise two fingers on each hand — a tribute to former players Ty Jordan and Aaron Lowe, who both wore #22 and passed away in 2020 and 2021. The team turns to face the videoboard for a tribute video that now includes fan-submitted photos of loved ones who’ve passed. The crowd then shouts “Family on Three!” in unison. It’s one of the most powerful moments in college football, and it happens every single home game. Don’t miss it — be in your seat before the end of the first quarter.
The Third Down Jump. When the opposing offense faces third down, the MUSS section — and much of the rest of the stadium — erupts. Students jump on the aluminum bleachers, raise three fingers, and scream at maximum volume. A “3rd Down Jump” sign races through the aisles, and when the noise causes a false start, a “5” gets hung over the MUSS railing to tally the penalty yards. The MUSS won ESPN and Taco Bell’s “Live Mas Student Section of the Year” award in 2021, and this tradition is a big reason why.
Red Thunder. Utah’s Army ROTC has operated a sideline cannon since 1968, firing it after every Utah score and at other key moments. The original cannon was retired, and Red Thunder II was brought back in 2025 and repositioned in the northwest corner of the field near the tunnel.
“Utah Man” Fight Song. After every game — win or loss — the team and fans sing “Utah Man” together. The lyrics reference the student section directly: “No rival band of college fans dare meet us in the muss.” Learn the words before you come, or just follow the crowd. It’s one of those moments that separates college football from everything else.
The Block U on the Mountain. Look east toward the Wasatch foothills and you’ll see the oversized Block U on the mountainside. It gets lit up after Utah victories — a tradition dating back to 1905 when students used to paint year markers on the slope until someone suggested a “U” to represent the whole school.
Flash the U. The block “U” hand signal has been a Ute fan tradition since the early 1990s, but it exploded nationally after Matt Asiata threw it up in the end zone during Utah’s Sugar Bowl win over Alabama in 2009. It’s now the universal Ute greeting — you’ll see it constantly on gameday. Throw it up and you’ll fit right in.
The Blues Brothers Dance. Between the third and fourth quarters, the Utah marching band plays “I Can’t Turn You Loose” while a fan known as “Crazy Lady” dances in front of them, energizing the entire section. It’s one of those quirky, organic traditions that couldn’t be manufactured if you tried.
Ute Heritage Halftime. Halftime at Utah home games often includes ceremonial performances from members of the Ute Indian Tribe, presenting the rich culture and traditions of the tribe that the university represents with formal permission through a memorandum of understanding. It’s a meaningful tradition that reflects Utah’s unique relationship with its namesake.
Photo Ops & Instagram Spots
The Olympic Cauldron is the signature photo. The refurbished 2002 Winter Olympic Cauldron sits on a 32-foot pedestal at Olympic Cauldron Park on the southwest corner of the stadium, accessible year-round without a ticket. It’s the iconic backdrop that connects this venue to its Olympic heritage — and it’s a photo you won’t get at any other college football stadium in the country.
The Wasatch Mountain backdrop from the east side concourse or the upper rows of the west side sections is stunning, especially during golden hour at late-afternoon kickoffs. The sunset over the valley with the stadium in the foreground is the Instagram shot.
Gate L arrival area before the game, when the crowd is building and the energy is ramping up, makes for great atmosphere photos with the south end zone Ken Garff Red Zone facade behind you.
Gameday Essentials
Download the Utah 360 app before you arrive. Mobile ticketing lives here — download your tickets to your phone wallet and you’ll breeze through entry with NFC tap scanning. The app also handles mobile concession ordering, in-stadium navigation, food and drink maps, parking info, and gameday planning tools. It’s one of the better college football venue apps. Don’t show up without it.
WiFi works — and it’s free. Connect to “RiceEcclesWiFi” with no registration required. It’s functional and reliable, which is rare for a college stadium. Combined with the Utah 360 app, you can mobile-order food without burning through your cell data.
Rent a chairback for $10. If you’re in bleacher sections (most non-premium seats), stadium-style chairbacks are available for rent at the northwest and southeast corners of the concourse on game day. Season ticket holders can pre-arrange chairs for the whole season through uteseats.com. You can also bring your own personal chair seat as long as it’s less than 18 inches wide.
The altitude is real. At 4,637 feet, Rice-Eccles is one of the highest-elevation venues in the Big 12 — only BYU’s LaVell Edwards Stadium in Provo edges it out. Visitors from lower elevations will feel it, especially if you’ve been drinking at the tailgate, climbing stadium stairs, and standing for extended periods. Hydrate aggressively throughout the day.
Cell service holds up. Rice-Eccles’ distributed sound system (upgraded in 2016) and the stadium’s moderate 51,000 capacity mean your phone should work fine for posting, texting, and rideshare apps. You shouldn’t have major connectivity issues.
Hit the team store early. The Utah Athletics team store on the stadium concourse gets crowded fast — go right when gates open for the best experience. The Rice-Eccles Box Office area near the southwest tower also has merchandise. If you want to shop without a game ticket, the University Campus Store on campus carries a full Utah gear selection during regular hours.
Families & Kids
Rice-Eccles is a solid family venue. Children 2 and under get in free without a ticket as long as they sit on an adult’s lap. Baby changing stations are in all men’s and women’s restrooms throughout the stadium. Two lactation pods were added in 2025 — one on the west concourse and one on the east.
Strollers are not permitted inside the stadium, so plan your gear accordingly. The Premium Terrace in the south end zone, with its all-you-can-eat concessions, is a strong option for families who want to minimize trips to concession lines with kids in tow. For regular seating, the east side sections (E28-E33) in the mid-to-upper rows tend to be the most family-friendly areas — close to concessions and restrooms without being in the most raucous sections near the MUSS.
Autographs & Player Access
There’s no guaranteed autograph access, but here’s your best shot. Players occasionally sign after games when time and NCAA schedules permit. Position yourself near the tunnel area in the northwest corner of the field (near where Red Thunder sits) after the game and hope for the best. Pregame warmups offer another window — arrive when gates open and head to the lower rows to watch the team take the field.
The Ute Walk is your best close-up opportunity. The team’s walk from the football facility down Guardsman Way to the stadium before every home game puts you within arm’s length of players and coaches. It’s more reliable than post-game access and a better atmosphere overall.
Hotels Near Rice-Eccles Stadium
Salt Lake City isn’t like a lot of the college towns in the Big 12, its a real city with a functioning downtown, a solid dining and bar scene, and a light rail system that connects directly to the stadium — which means your hotel choice is more flexible than at most college football destinations. That said, big games (BYU, Colorado, ranked teams) book up fast. Reserve early for rivalry weekends, especially anything within walking distance of campus.
Best Areas to Stay
University District / Foothill Area (Closest to Stadium). The area immediately east and south of campus puts you within walking distance or a very short TRAX ride from Rice-Eccles. It’s quieter than downtown — more residential and campus-oriented — but you’re right on top of the action on gameday. The Marriott University Park sits directly adjacent to the stadium area. Best for: fans who want to walk to the game and prioritize convenience over nightlife.
Downtown Salt Lake City (Best Overall for Visitors). Downtown is about 3 miles west of the stadium and connected by the TRAX Red Line. This is where the hotels, restaurants, and bars are concentrated. You can pregame at a downtown bar, hop on TRAX, be at the stadium in 15-20 minutes, and reverse the trip after the game. The area around 300 South to 400 South has the most walkable dining and nightlife. Best for: most visitors, especially those who want the full Salt Lake City experience beyond just the game.
Sugar House (Southeast of Downtown). This neighborhood about 10 minutes southeast of campus has developed a strong independent restaurant and shop scene. It’s a more local, less touristy feel. Not as convenient for TRAX access to the stadium, but a good option if you’re driving. Best for: fans staying multiple days who want a neighborhood feel.
Best Hotels for Gameday
Salt Lake City Marriott University Park — The closest full-service hotel to Rice-Eccles, about a mile walk from the stadium. Two on-site restaurants (Thistle & Thyme, Sky Brook Kitchen + Bar) and a Starbucks. Mid-range pricing, but the convenience on gameday is hard to beat. Currently undergoing renovations — check recent reviews before booking. (Mid-range, $150-250/night)
University Guest House & Conference Center — On-campus lodging with the highest traveler ratings of any property near the stadium. Smaller and more intimate. Free parking. Great for visiting parents or fans who want to be embedded in the campus atmosphere. (Mid-range, $130-200/night)
Hampton Inn & Suites Salt Lake City/University-Foothill Dr. — Solid chain option on Foothill Drive southeast of campus with free parking and good reviews. A short drive or TRAX ride to the stadium. Reliable and well-maintained. (Mid-range, $140-220/night)
The Grand America Hotel — Downtown Salt Lake City’s premier luxury property. If you want the upscale experience with a world-class spa and multiple restaurants, this is it. About 15 minutes from the stadium by TRAX. Books up fast for big game weekends. (Luxury, $300-500+/night)
Kimpton Hotel Monaco Salt Lake City — A distinctive boutique hotel in downtown with personality. Walkable to the downtown bar scene and convenient to TRAX. A strong pick for fans who want character over cookie-cutter. (Upper mid-range, $200-350/night)
Little America Hotel — A Salt Lake City institution downtown with surprisingly reasonable rates for the quality. Indoor and outdoor pools, solid restaurant. Good value for families. (Mid-range, $120-200/night)
Budget Options
Hyatt House Salt Lake City / Downtown — Extended-stay format with kitchenettes, a solid option if you’re staying multiple nights and want to save on dining. Pet-friendly, which is a nice perk. About 2 miles from the stadium with good TRAX access. You trade location and luxury for value and flexibility. (Budget-friendly, $100-160/night)
Motel 6 or budget chains along I-15 corridor — The suburban areas along I-15 south of Salt Lake City (Murray, Midvale) have budget chain options for $70-100/night. You’re 15-20 minutes from the stadium by car, and TRAX stations along the Red Line make transit to the game easy. You give up walkability and atmosphere entirely, but if you’re purely budget-driven, these work.
Utah Gameday Scene: Where to Go
The gameday scene at Rice-Eccles revolves around two hubs: the tailgate lots adjacent to the stadium and the downtown bar scene connected by TRAX. Since alcohol isn’t sold inside the stadium, the pregame is where fans load up — which means the tailgate energy at Guardsman Lot and Tailgate Way is more intense than at most college venues. After the game, fans head downtown or to near-campus bars to decompress.
Best Pregame Bars
The Pie Pizzeria (Underground Location) — Located on 200 South just west of Presidents Circle, The Pie is a Salt Lake City institution and a rite of passage for Utah fans. The underground location has been a student and local favorite for decades. It’s casual, loud, and packed on gameday. Great pizza.
Black Sheep Bar & Grill (Foothill Location) — Known for running a bus to and from Utah football games, Black Sheep has become a popular pregame staging area. Solid pub food, burgers, and a lively atmosphere on game days. The bus service eliminates parking hassles entirely.
Squatters Pub Brewery — Downtown on 300 South, Squatters has hosted pregame parties with buffets and bus service to Rice-Eccles. Their Chasing Tail Golden Ale is a local staple. It’s a real brewery with a real food menu — a step above the typical sports bar.
Green Pig Pub — A downtown bar with Utah football memorabilia on the walls and proximity to the 400 South TRAX line. Saturday brunch specials before games, Bloody Marys and mimosas, and a loyal Ute following. The original sign from Rice Stadium hangs inside.
Whiskey Street — Downtown on Main Street, Whiskey Street offers a more upscale pregame option with a solid cocktail menu and good food. Multiple fans and visitors have called it out as a go-to spot, and it’s an easy TRAX ride to the game from there.
Best Restaurants in the Area
Pago (9th & 9th Neighborhood) — Upscale farm-to-table dining that’s consistently ranked among Salt Lake City’s best. Organic, seasonal, and creative. Not a pregame spot — more of a “while you’re in town” dinner destination. ($$-$$$)
HSL (9th & 9th) — Another strong 9th & 9th option with innovative American cuisine in a relaxed setting. Excellent brunch if you’re in town on Sunday morning. ($$)
Osteria Amore (East Side) — Authentic Italian from a Bolognese-trained chef. Handmade pasta, intimate setting, and a wine list worth exploring. Great for a Friday night dinner before a Saturday game. ($$-$$$)
Red Iguana (North Temple) — Salt Lake City’s most famous Mexican restaurant, known for its mole sauces. Usually has a wait, but it’s worth it. Multiple locations — the original on North Temple is the best. (−$)
Even Stevens Sandwiches (Multiple Locations) — A local sandwich chain that donates a sandwich to someone in need for every one sold. Fast, affordable, and legit good. Solid pre-tailgate fuel or post-game recovery meal. ($)
Things to Do In Salt Lake City During a Utah Football Weekend
Visit Temple Square: This iconic attraction is home to the stunning Salt Lake Temple, as well as other historic buildings and gardens. It’s a center of religious and cultural significance for the Latter-day Saints (Mormon) community.
Explore the Utah State Capitol: The state capitol building features impressive architecture and beautiful views of the city and surrounding mountains. Guided tours provide insights into Utah’s history and government.
Hike (or drive) in Big Cottonwood Canyon: Just outside the city, this canyon offers numerous hiking trails suitable for all skill levels. The scenery is breathtaking, especially during the fall when the leaves change color.
Visit the Natural History Museum of Utah: This museum features a wide range of exhibits that showcase the natural wonders of the region, including dinosaur fossils, Native American artifacts, and interactive displays.
Discover Red Butte Garden and Arboretum: This botanical garden and outdoor concert venue is a great place to explore lush gardens, diverse plant collections, and enjoy live music performances during the warmer months.
Take a Day Trip to Park City: About 30 minutes from Salt Lake City, Park City offers fantastic skiing in the winter and a charming mountain town atmosphere year-round. You can also enjoy shopping, dining, and outdoor activities.
Explore the Hogle Zoo: This well-maintained zoo features a wide variety of animals from around the world and offers educational opportunities for visitors of all ages.
Enjoy Skiing and Snowboarding: In the winter, Salt Lake City is a gateway to numerous world-class ski resorts such as Snowbird, Alta, Brighton, and Solitude. These resorts offer excellent downhill and cross-country skiing.
Hike in Mill Creek Canyon: Enjoy the outdoors by hiking in Mill Creek Canyon, which offers a variety of trails for different skill levels. The scenery is especially stunning during the fall when the leaves change colors.
Why You Should Go
Rice-Eccles is one of college football’s most underrated gameday experiences. The combination of a passionate, knowledgeable fan base, a stunning mountain setting, genuine traditions like the Moment of Loudness and the MUSS’s Third Down Jump, and the intimacy of a 51,000-seat enclosed bowl creates an atmosphere that punches well above its weight class.
Here are some good road trips for Ute fans as the embark their new journey in the Big 12 conference.
and dont forget the Delta Center.
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. Shoot me an email if we missed anything or need any corrections.