| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Home Team | Washington Huskies (NCAA Football) |
| Opened | 1920 (renovated 2013) |
| Capacity | ~70,083 |
| Best Value Seats | Upper-level sideline sections for great views at reasonable prices |
| Premium Seating | Don James Center, Club Husky, luxury suites |
| Top Stadium Foods | Dungeness crab sandwiches, salmon chowder, classic stadium hot dogs |
| Nearby Bars/Eats | The Ram, Earl’s on the Ave, University Village dining |
| Closest Hotels | Silver Cloud Hotel, Graduate Seattle, University Inn |
| Transit Access | Link light rail to University of Washington Station, buses, bike paths, and the unique “sailgating” boat access |
| Unique Highlights | Stunning views of Lake Washington and the Cascade Mountains; famous for one of the loudest atmospheres in college football |
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Husky Stadium Seating Chart
The current seating capacity of Husky Stadium is 70,138, following a $280 million renovation in 2013 that enhanced amenities and improved the fan experience by reducing capacity from 72,500. The facility includes luxury suites, club seating, and better concessions, while remaining one of college football’s loudest stadiums. Its U-shaped design minimizes glare from the sun for athletes and offers stunning views of the surrounding natural landscape. Here is the updated interactive Alaska Airlines Field at Husky Stadium Seating Chart.
Tickets To Washington Huskies Football
For all the reasons we’ve already mentioned, Washington Huskies games at the iconic Husky Stadium can be a challenging ticket, especially with the Huskies’ move to the Big Ten Conference bringing marquee matchups to Seattle. If you plan far enough in advance, though, you should be able to find tickets to Dawgs Football without much of a problem. To get tickets to a Washington Huskies football game, you have several options:
Get your Washington Huskies tickets HERE! With our partnership with Vivid Seats you can get tickets to the Huskies, Mariners, Seahawks, or just above any concert or event anywhere.
Official UW Athletics Website: Visit the official Washington Athletics website to purchase tickets directly. Season tickets offer payment plan options allowing you to split payments into four monthly installments, with auto-renewal programs available to guarantee your seats year-over-year.
Ticketmaster: The official ticketing partner offers individual game tickets and season ticket options.
Ticket Exchanges and Resale: Explore StubHub, Vivid Seats, and other reputable secondary markets.
Remember to purchase tickets from reputable sources to avoid scams or counterfeit tickets. Check the ticket seller’s reviews and policies before making a purchase.
Best Seats at Husky Stadium
Husky Stadium offers one of the most spectacular settings in all of college football. The 70,138-seat venue’s unique U-shaped design was specifically engineered to maximize both sound and sightlines, with nearly 70% of seats positioned between the end zones under cantilevered metal roofs that trap noise to create deafening crowd levels averaging over 100 decibels.
What truly sets Husky Stadium apart is its breathtaking natural amphitheater setting: the open end overlooks Union Bay on Lake Washington, providing unmatched views of Downtown Seattle’s skyline, the majestic Mount Rainier, and both the Cascade and Olympic Mountain ranges. This isn’t just a football game – it’s a scenic experience unlike any other venue in college sports.
Best Non-Premium Seats:
Lower Level Sideline (Midfield): The premium non-club seats are located in the lower bowl sideline sections closest to the 50-yard line. These seats offer optimal viewing angles for following plays while being positioned under the protective cantilevered roofs.
Key advantage: Perfect balance of field proximity and stadium atmosphere, with protection from Seattle’s occasional drizzle.
Rows to target: Mid-level rows in these sections provide the ideal height to see over players and coaches on the sidelines while staying close to the action.
Husky bench location: Home sideline offers great views of team interactions and coaching decisions.
Best Value Seats:
200-300 Level Sideline: These elevated seats provide excellent overall field views and maximize Husky Stadium’s greatest asset – the stunning scenery. From this height, you get spectacular views of Lake Washington and the surrounding mountain ranges while maintaining clear sightlines to all field action.
End Zone Lower Level: With the student section relocated to the west end zone during the 2013 renovation, these sections offer incredible energy and atmosphere at more affordable prices than midfield locations.
Corner Sections: Where the sideline meets the end zone, these seats often provide good value with decent field views and easier access to concessions.
Best Budget-Friendly Seats:
Upper Level Any Location: Due to Husky Stadium’s steep design and excellent sightlines, even the highest rows offer surprisingly good views of the action. The elevation actually enhances the scenic mountain and lake views that make this venue special.
End Zone Upper Level: Most affordable option while still providing good game views and the full Husky Stadium noise experience.
Games against non-conference opponents: Target games against Weber State, Colorado State, or other non-marquee opponents for the best deals on quality seating.
Weather consideration: All upper level seats are uncovered, so check the forecast and dress appropriately for Seattle weather.
Insider Tip: Husky Stadium holds the Guinness World Record as the loudest football stadium ever recorded. The noise can literally cause TV cameras to shake, so bring ear protection regardless of where you sit. The sound is amplified throughout the entire stadium due to the unique roof design.
Premium Seating At Husky Stadium
Husky Stadium’s 2013 renovation transformed the premium experience, creating some of the most spectacular luxury seating in college football. With the stadium’s unmatched setting overlooking Lake Washington and the Olympic and Cascade Mountains, premium seating combines world-class views with first-class amenities.
Club Husky
Location: South side of Husky Stadium
What You Get: Padded, theatre-style seats with armrests, cup holders, additional legroom and covered protection from the elements. Access to the Club Husky Lounge with upscale food and beverage options, HDTVs, private restrooms and a private entrance.
Unique Feature: Outdoor viewing deck with lounge areas, fireplaces and vistas from the Olympic Mountains to Lake Washington
Perfect For: Fans wanting premium comfort with spectacular scenic views
Don James Center (Sections 228-230)
Location: Midfield elevated position offering the stadium’s best elevated views
What You Get: Theatre-style padded chairs with additional legroom, cupholders and armrests. Access to private climate-controlled reception areas, upscale fireside sports lounges and a private outdoor viewing deck.
Premium Perk: Food and beverage is included in the ticket price
Perfect For: The ultimate Husky Stadium experience with all-inclusive service
Luxury Suites
Capacity: 15-20 guests typically
What You Get: Spectacular views of the field and beautiful Lake Washington, plus multiple comfortable seating options such as couches, loveseats, bar stools, and stadium seats. TVs, a kitchenette, a closet for belongings, and ample countertops and tables
Catering: Five-star catering available for order (budget $75-125 per guest for full spread)
Perfect For: Corporate entertaining or special celebrations
Patio Suites
Experience: Spectacular views of the game while providing a comfortable and unique experience with outdoor elements
Perfect For: Groups wanting a more casual luxury experience with outdoor atmosphere
How To Get Premium Seats at Husky Stadium
Official Channel: Contact University of Washington Athletics directly for season packages and annual commitments
Secondary Market: SuiteHop offers verified luxury suite and club seat marketplace for individual games
Pricing Range: Premium suites and fieldside seats can cost as much as $1,577 per ticket for marquee games
Booking Process: Complete a request form to receive specific pricing for your event, with dedicated premium seating experts to help navigate options
Pro Tip: Premium seating sells out quickly for Big Ten games like Michigan, Ohio State, and Oregon, so book early or consider secondary markets for single-game access.
Husky Stadium Bag Policy
Husky Stadium enforces a strict clear bag policy designed to expedite security screening and enhance safety for all fans. Understanding these rules before arriving will help you get through security faster and avoid having to return items to your vehicle.
Allowed Bags:
Small Bags: Maximum size 4.5″ x 6.5″ (any style)
Clear Plastic Bags: One-gallon plastic freezer bag (Ziploc-style)
Clear Bags: 12″ x 6″ x 12″ clear plastic bag
No Bag: The fastest option – no bag at all will get you through security quickest
Additional Policies
Here are some additional policies most people need to know before heading to the stadium
Cashless Venue: Husky Stadium is completely cashless – only credit/debit cards and mobile pay are accepted for concessions, merchandise, and parking.
No Smoking Policy Completely smoke-free venue with no designated smoking areas anywhere, including e-cigarettes and vaping devices.
Mobile Tickets Required Digital tickets must be downloaded to your phone before arrival, and screenshots are not accepted for entry.
Husky Stadium Parking
Parking at Husky Stadium presents unique challenges due to the stadium’s location on the University of Washington campus in a densely populated urban area. With limited on-campus parking and heavy gameday traffic, many fans have discovered that public transportation, particularly the light rail system, offers a more convenient and stress-free alternative to driving and parking.
Payment System: Payment for gameday public parking requires Pay-By-Phone (paybyphone.com) in the majority of campus lots
Download Required: Fans should download the Pay-By-Phone app before arriving
Lot Locations: E17, E19, E20 and E21 are next to Husky Stadium, while E01 and E18 are large lots near the recreation fields
Opening Times: All lots open at 4:30 p.m. except lot E18, which opens early at 9:00 a.m.
Closest Parking to Stadium
Premium Proximity: General parking for Husky Stadium is located to the south of the venue in lots E12 and E20, as well as a short walk down Montlake Boulevard in lots E1 and E18
ADA Accessible: ADA accessible parking is located right next to Husky Stadium in lots E17 and E20
Tailgating Area: The tailgating area is adjacent to lot E18
Alternative Parking Options
First-Come, First-Served: Single-game general public parking is available on a first-come, first-serve basis day of the game in E2, N25, N4, N5, W10, W12, UW Tower Garage A, UW Tower Garage B, Padelford Parking Garage, C1-C6 Central Plaza Garage, S1, and Portage Bay Garage
RV/Oversized Vehicles: All public RV parking is available in the E1RV or E4 lot
Season Parking: Contact the Tyee Club at 206-543-2234 for full season parking options
Parking Tips
Light Rail is King: The light rail stop is right in the middle of the closest parking lot, making public transit often faster than driving. (see next section)
Arrive Early: Traffic nearing Husky Stadium is often busier than normal around the time of popular events
Pre-Book When Possible: Use apps like SpotHero, ParkWhiz, or SeatGeek to reserve spots in advance
Have Backup Payment: Ensure your credit cards work as all pay machines take Visa, MasterCard and American Express
Consider Walking Distance: E01 lot has several entrances, with the easiest being from the north off Montlake Boulevard at Walla Walla Road
Pro Parking Strategy
Best Option: Take the light rail directly to University of Washington station – it drops you right at the stadium entrance
If You Must Drive: Arrive 3+ hours early for premium lots or consider parking further away and taking public transit for the final leg
Game Day Services: AAA is on-site at every Husky football game for free roadside assistance in the North and South stadium lots
Emergency Help: Call Guest Services at 206-543-2246 for lockout rescue, flat tires, and jumpstarts
Public Transportation (Highly Recommended)
Sound Transit Link Light Rail (1 Line): The University of Washington station is located right next to Husky Stadium, serving passengers from Lynnwood, Shoreline, Northgate, Roosevelt, Capitol Hill, downtown Seattle, Beacon Hill, the Rainier Valley, Tukwila, SeaTac and Angle Lake. Here is the Sound Transit Light Rail Schedule.
Metro buses operate express shuttle service on Husky home game days from three designated park and ride lots. Regular Metro Routes 44, 48, 65, 75 and 271 provide transportation to Husky Stadium.
PRO TIP: Transit is the easiest way to Husky Stadium, with the light rail dropping you directly at the stadium entrance.
Husky Stadium Insider Gameday Tips
Beyond the basics of tickets and parking lies the real magic of experiencing Husky Stadium. These insider tips come from years of local knowledge and will help you navigate gameday like a seasoned fan, avoid common tourist mistakes, and discover the hidden gems that make Husky football truly special.
Traditions & What Makes Husky Stadium Unique
The Birthplace of “The Wave”: Husky Stadium is credited as the birthplace of the stadium wave phenomenon. The tradition started in 1981 when UW Yell King Robb Weller ran around the track and executed the first wave that continued around the entire stadium. Be part of history when the wave inevitably starts during your game.
Sailgating on Lake Washington: This nearly century-long pregame tradition is truly one-of-a-kind in college football. More than 3,000 guests per home game anchor their boats in Union Bay, with 150 reservable dock spaces available at Husky Harbor. Even if you don’t have a boat, charter boats are available for vessel-less fans, and you can anchor in Union Bay without a permit. The school provides shuttle service two hours before kickoff and one hour after the game (return trips cost $10 per guest over two years old).
Purple Fridays: Don Husky Purple the day before games – this tradition inspired by Mount Rainier visible from campus takes school spirit nationwide. It’s not just a gameday thing; the entire Seattle area gets purple on Fridays before home games.
Stadium Tips
Weather Strategy: Seattle weather is unpredictable, but there’s a pattern – afternoon games can get surprisingly warm with the sun reflecting off Lake Washington, while evening games can turn cold and damp quickly. The stadium’s orientation minimizes glare for players, but upper level seats get full sun exposure. Layer up and bring a rain jacket even if it looks clear. Here is the local weather forecast.
The 30-Minute Rule: Arrive no later than 30 minutes before kickoff, but here’s the insider tip – if you’re using light rail, arrive at the University of Washington station 45 minutes early. The station gets packed, and you’ll want time to soak in the pregame atmosphere on campus before heading into the stadium.
Gameday Experience Hacks
The E18 Lot Secret: Lot E18 opens at 9:00 a.m. (while others open at 4:30 p.m.) and is adjacent to the tailgating area. This is where the most dedicated Husky fans gather – it’s worth the early arrival for the authentic experience.
Post-Game Transit Strategy: Don’t rush to the light rail immediately after the game. Spend 20-30 minutes walking around campus (visit Drumheller Fountain or Red Square) to let the crowds thin out, then catch a less crowded train.
The Zone VIP Upgrade: While The Zone (free gameday experience on East Practice Field) is free with your ticket, few people know you can purchase a VIP ZonePass for extended access through the start of the third quarter. It’s worth it for big games when the free area gets crowded.
Dawg Walk Pro Tip: The Dawg Walk begins on the northwest plaza of Husky Stadium and continues along Montlake Boulevard. Position yourself halfway along Montlake Boulevard rather than at the start – you’ll get better photos and less crowded viewing as the team, band, and Helmet Car pass by.
Stadium Entry Strategy: Gates open 90 minutes before kickoff, but smart fans enter right when they open to explore the stadium, grab concessions before lines form, and secure the best spots for photos with the Lake Washington backdrop.
U-District Bar Crawl Timing: If you’re doing a pregame bar crawl on “The Ave,” start at Big Time Brewery (farthest from stadium) and work your way toward Earl’s on the Ave (closest to stadium). This way you’re walking toward the stadium as kickoff approaches.
Sailgating Spectator Tip: Even if you’re not sailgating, walk down to the waterfront near the stadium 2-3 hours before kickoff to watch the boats arrive. It’s free entertainment and offers incredible photo opportunities with the stadium backdrop.
Bars and Restaurants Near Husky Stadium
The University District is a neighborhood brimming with youthful energy, intellectual curiosity, and cultural diversity, thanks to its namesake, the University of Washington. Visitors will find a lively, walkable area filled with quirky shops, bookstores, and a wide array of dining options that reflect the neighborhood’s multicultural vibe.
University Way (known as “The Ave”) serves as the main strip where Husky fans gather before games, offering everything from classic college bars to diverse international cuisine.
5 Most Popular Pregame Spots
Earl’s on the Ave: Earl’s on the Ave is the best sports bar in the University District to watch Husky and Seahawks games, have cheap drinks, and enjoy bar food favorites. Known as a no-nonsense sports bar with late-night hours, stiff drinks, and a broad menu of burgers, sandwiches & more located in Seattle’s University District just a block away from the University of Washington campus. Features 9 TVs and a 12-foot projector screen, and opens earlier for UW football games.
Big Time Brewery & Alehouse: Serving Seattle since 1988, Big Time Brewery is the oldest brewpub, nestled in the U-District and neighbors with University of Washington. Seattle’s oldest continuously operating brewery that makes their own beer, ranging from fruity IPAs to nitro stouts. Done up to look like a turn-of-the-20th-century tavern, complete with a 100-year-old back bar and wooden refrigerator, serving as many as 12 of their own brews at any given time. Perfect stop on a U-District bar crawl.
Shultzy’s Bar & Grill: UW student staple along University Way that’s become synonymous with Husky gameday tradition. Popular gathering spot for students and alumni alike, offering a classic sports bar atmosphere perfect for pregame festivities.
The Pacific Inn: Located between Wallingford and Fremont on Stone Way, featuring some of the best fish and chips in Seattle and plenty of local beers on tap. Check out the great patio which is amazing for people watching and pregame socializing. Perfect for fans coming from the west side of Seattle.
Blue Moon Tavern: An unofficial cultural landmark where Pulitzer Prize-winning poets and Dead Heads have bent their elbows at its bar. The Blue Moon is a statement about all that is merry, divey, dirty, noisy, and bizarre – offering a unique dive bar experience for fans who want to discuss Husky football with an eclectic crowd.
Top Restaurant Recommendations
Agua Verde Cafe: Sample some of Seattle’s finest dining options nearby at Agua Verde Cafe – a popular Mexican restaurant known for its fresh fare and unique setting near Lake Union. Perfect for a sit-down pregame meal with a view.
Thai Tom: Thai Tom stands above the rest along the restaurant-packed University Way. This beloved hole-in-the-wall Thai restaurant offers authentic, spicy Thai cuisine in a no-frills setting that’s become a University District institution.
Hotels Near Husky Stadium
Choosing where to stay for your Husky Stadium experience depends on your priorities and budget. While there are limited hotel options directly in the University District, the light rail system makes downtown Seattle hotels incredibly convenient – you can stay in the heart of the city and be at the stadium in under 30 minutes.
University District Hotels (Walking Distance)
Graduate by Hilton Seattle: Located in the vibrant University District, just a 10-minute walk from the University of Washington campus and across from the University District light rail station – perfect for football season. Features Seattle-inspired guest rooms, an adventurous rooftop bar with stunning views, and daily $15 food and beverage credit.
Staypineapple, University Inn: Located in University District Seattle, offering straightforward amenities and comfort, ideal for travelers looking for good value and convenience
Watetown Hotel: University District location with superior amenities and refined design
Residence Inn by Marriott Seattle University District: Features fully equipped kitchens and barbecue/picnic areas perfect for social events
Downtown Seattle Luxury Hotels (3-15 miles)
Fairmont Olympic Hotel: Elegant 5.0-star hotel housed in a beautifully restored historic building in the heart of Seattle, featuring stunning decor, sauna, pool, and jacuzzi
Lotte Hotel Seattle: Stunning 5.0-star hotel with breathtaking views and contemporary design, featuring an exceptional spa and renowned restaurant with ocean views
Hyatt Regency Seattle: Located 3 miles from Husky Stadium, this 4-star hotel offers urban and natural experiences with adventure sports like rock climbing and bicycle rentals nearby
Mid-Range Options
Staybridge Suites Seattle Fremont: Features 24-hour pantry and three-star amenities, just a brief drive from Husky Stadium
Mediterranean Inn: Just 3 miles from Husky Stadium, combining adventure with business convenience, featuring fully-equipped business center and easy access to kayaking, boat tours, and hiking
Reserve well in advance for popular games like Oregon, Michigan, or Big Ten marquee matchups – hotels fill up quickly and prices increase significantly.
Things to Do in Seattle
Just minutes from Husky Stadium lies the University of Washington campus and the greater Seattle area, home to some of the Pacific Northwest’s greatest cultural attractions and outdoor activities.
Explore Pike Place Market: Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of Pike Place Market, one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. Taste delicious local produce, marvel at the fresh seafood stalls, and be sure to catch the famous fishmongers in action. Don’t forget to snap a photo with the beloved bronze pig, Rachel!
Visit the Space Needle: No trip to Seattle is complete without a visit to the Space Needle. Take an elevator ride to the top and enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the city, the waterfront, and the surrounding mountains. Indulge in a meal at the rotating SkyCity Restaurant for a unique dining experience with a view.
Explore Chihuly Garden and Glass: Marvel at the exquisite glass artwork of renowned artist Dale Chihuly at Chihuly Garden and Glass. Admire the vibrant sculptures and installations that blend seamlessly with the surrounding botanical garden. The intricate glass creations will leave you in awe of the artist’s talent and creativity.
Discover the Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP): Unleash your inner pop culture enthusiast at MoPOP, a museum dedicated to music, science fiction, and popular culture. Explore interactive exhibits, check out iconic memorabilia, and delve into the world of your favorite musicians, movies, and more.
Take a Ferry to Bainbridge Island: Escape the bustling city and embark on a scenic ferry ride from Seattle to Bainbridge Island. Enjoy stunning views of the Seattle skyline and the picturesque Puget Sound. Once on the island, wander through charming shops, sample local cuisine, and soak up the relaxed island vibes.
The Seattle area offers the perfect blend of urban sophistication, natural beauty, and Pacific Northwest culture, making it an ideal destination for sports fans and tourists alike. GO Huskies
If you’re looking for other guides in Seattle check out our Lumen Field and T-Mobile Park Guides. You can find all of our college guides here. As well as these Big 10 foes:
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.