| Sanford Stadium Quick Guide | |
|---|---|
| Home Team | Georgia Bulldogs (NCAA – SEC) |
| Opened | 1929 (expanded and renovated multiple times, most recently in 2023) |
| Capacity | 92,746 |
| Best Value Seats | Upper Sideline (Sections 603–607 or 637–641) – Affordable midfield views |
| Premium Seating | Champion’s Club, SkySuites, East End Club, SkyClub |
| Top Stadium Foods | Smoked BBQ Sandwich, Chick-fil-A, BBQ Nachos, Peach Cobbler |
| Nearby Bars | Creature Comforts Brewery, Blind Pig Tavern, The Globe |
| Closest Hotels | Graduate Athens, Hotel Indigo, Hilton Garden Inn Downtown Athens |
| Transit Access | Gameday shuttles from downtown and Park & Ride lots; most fans walk from downtown Athens or tailgate on-site |
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Best Seats at Sanford Stadium
Sanford Stadium is one of the most intimidating venues in college football—92,746 fans screaming between the hedges creates an atmosphere that’s been breaking opposing teams for nearly a century. This is Georgia football royalty, complete with perfectly manicured privet hedges that ring the field and traditions that make even SEC veterans get goosebumps. The stadium’s been expanded and renovated repeatedly over the past two decades, adding premium clubs and modern amenities, but it hasn’t lost the raw energy that makes Athens on game day feel like a pilgrimage.
Seating Guide
Sanford Stadium holds 92,746 and runs northwest to southeast, which means sun exposure is everything when picking your seat. The bowl has three main levels: 100-level (lower bowl), 300-level (upper deck), and 600-level (nosebleeds on the north side), plus a wraparound 200-level club section. Rows in the lower bowl go up to about 60 in some sections, so “lower level” doesn’t automatically mean you’re close to the action—you need to pay attention to row numbers.
The Sweet Spots: Best Non-Premium Seats
Sections 106-108 and 130-132 (Lower Sideline, South Side, Rows 10-30): These are the money seats if you’re not buying into a club. You’re at midfield on the shaded south side with clear sightlines to both end zones and close enough to hear the snap count in rows 10-20. Rows 10-30 are the sweet spot—low enough to feel the game, high enough to see plays develop without standing fans blocking you. The south side is shaded for afternoon games thanks to the press box and skybox tower overhead, so you’re not roasting in September heat.
Downside: these are some of the most expensive non-premium tickets in the stadium, and you’re surrounded by big donors who might not stand and scream as much as you’d like. But for pure viewing quality and comfort, this is where you want to be.
Sections 127-136 and 327-335 (South Sideline, Upper and Lower): Same shade advantage as the sweet spot above, but you’re trading proximity for price. Sections 127-136 in the lower bowl still give you excellent sightlines and you’re shaded by mid-afternoon. The 300-level versions (sections 327-335) are even cheaper and higher up, but the view is legitimately good for watching plays develop—you can see formations and blocking schemes clearly. These sections are closest to the student section (sections 109-114, 138-143), so you’ll feel more of the crowd energy than you would on the visitor side. Perfect for fans who want a solid view without breaking the bank.
Sections 101-105 and 133-137 (Lower End Zone Behind the Hedges): You’re sitting right on top of the action in the end zone, and when Georgia scores on your end, you’re in the middle of the celebration. The hedges are right in front of you, which is part of the experience—you’re literally between the hedges. Rows 1-15 put you close enough to touch the players (almost), but you’ll have trouble seeing what’s happening on the far end of the field. These seats work best if you care more about atmosphere and being part of the scene than having a perfect strategic view of the entire game. They’re also usually cheaper than midfield sideline, so it’s a good value play if you want to be close.
Best Value Seats
Sections 301-312 (Upper Deck, North Side): The cheapest legitimate seats in the house. You’re high up on the visitor side, but the sightlines at Sanford are surprisingly solid from the upper deck—you can see the entire field and scoreboard clearly. You’ll save $50-100+ per seat compared to lower sideline, and honestly, if you care more about being in the building for a huge game (Florida, Auburn, Tennessee) than having a perfect view, this works. Trade-off is obvious: you’re far from the field, you’re in direct sun for noon and early afternoon games, and bathroom lines are brutal at halftime. Not ideal for older fans or anyone with mobility issues, but perfect for students, budget-conscious fans, or anyone who just wants to experience Georgia football without spending $200+ per ticket.
Budget Option
Sections 138-143 (Student Section, if you can access it): If you’re a student or can get your hands on a student ticket, this is the best deal in college football. You’re in the lower bowl end zone surrounded by 15,000+ screaming Georgia students who actually know the cheers and chants. The energy here is unmatched—this is where the noise starts and spreads through the rest of the stadium. View-wise, you’re in the end zone so you’ll have trouble seeing the far end of the field, but you’re not here for the sightlines—you’re here for the experience. Obvious downside: unless you’re a UGA student, you can’t sit here. But if you can, do it at least once.
Weather & Shade Reality
Sanford Stadium runs northwest to southeast, which creates a clear shade vs. sun divide. The south sideline (home side, sections 120-143 and 320-343) is the shade side—the press box and skybox tower block the sun by mid-afternoon, so if you’re there for a 3:30pm or 7pm kickoff, you’ll be comfortable. The north sideline (visitor side, sections 101-119 and 301-319) is the sun-soaked side—you’re in direct sunlight for the entire game during noon and early afternoon kickoffs. By late afternoon, shade crosses the field and eventually covers the north side from lowest to highest rows, but if it’s a noon game in September, you’re roasting the whole time.
The end zones are exposed for day games but get shaded during evening kickoffs. If you’re going to a hot early-season game, pay the extra $20-30 to sit on the south side in sections 127-136 or 327-335—it’s worth it. The 600-level nosebleeds on the north side are the last seats to get shade, so bring sunglasses and sunscreen if you’re up there.
What to Avoid
Sections 601-611 (600-Level North Side): These are the absolute nosebleeds on the north side, and for noon games, you’re staring directly into the sun with zero shade. The view is distant, the climb is brutal, and the heat is miserable unless it’s November. These are the cheapest seats for a reason—only buy them if you’re desperate to be in the building and genuinely don’t care about comfort or a great view.
End zone corners in the 100 and 300 levels (Sections 115-119, 315-319): You’re at a severe angle to the field, which makes it hard to judge depth and distance. Half the plays look like they’re happening sideways. You’re also far from the energy of the student section and the premium sideline seats, so you’re missing both the view and the atmosphere. Skip these unless they’re significantly cheaper and you’re just there for the tailgate scene.
Premium Seating
Sanford Stadium has five main premium options: Champions Club, SkyClub, South & North Club, and East Upper/Lower Clubs. The Champions Club is the crown jewel with the most exclusive amenities. The SkyClub offers covered outdoor seating with suite access. The South & North Clubs are the best value if you want premium perks without top-tier pricing. Here’s what actually matters when you’re deciding where to spend.
The Best Club: Champions Club
Location: Section 207, south sideline at midfield. Capacity: Limited—this is the most exclusive seating in the stadium.
Price range: Approximately $2,250 per season ticket. For single-game access (if available), expect to pay $400-600+ per seat depending on the opponent.
What’s included: Unparalleled midfield views from prime seating, in-seat wait service, comfortable padded chairback seats, and access to a private climate-controlled club lounge with upscale dining. You’re not waiting in concession lines or fighting for a bathroom stall—everything comes to you. The lounge features premium food (think carving stations, shrimp cocktail, upscale appetizers—not stadium nachos), full bar service, private restrooms, and multiple TVs so you can watch other games.
The lounge itself: This is the most polished club space at Sanford Stadium. High-end finishes, comfortable lounge seating, quiet atmosphere, and food quality that matches what you’d get at a nice restaurant. The vibe is corporate and upscale—you’re around big donors, alumni board members, and corporate clients. It’s quiet and comfortable, but you’re missing the raw energy of sitting in the student section or lower bowl with diehards. You can step out to your seat for big moments, but the lounge is designed to keep you inside.
Who this is for: Corporate entertaining, major donors, alumni celebrating milestone reunions or special occasions. One-time splurge for a huge rivalry game (Florida, Auburn, Georgia Tech) if you can get single-game access. Not for families on a budget or fans who live for the rowdy crowd atmosphere. You’re paying for comfort, convenience, and exclusivity—not the full college football chaos experience.
Reality check: You’re paying 4-5x regular ticket prices for this. You get the best sightlines in the stadium, climate control, premium food and drinks, and zero hassle. You lose the raw energy and crowd connection that makes college football special. Worth it if you’re working (clients, recruiting, business development) or if heat/cold/crowds are dealbreakers. Not worth it if you actually want to feel like you’re at a Georgia football game.
South & North Club
Location: South Club is on the home sideline; North Club is on the visitor sideline, both in the 200-level. Capacity: Wraps around most of the stadium—more accessible than Champions Club.
Price range: Approximately $750 per season ticket. Single-game pricing (if available) is typically $150-250 per seat depending on opponent.
What’s included: Padded chairback seats with backs, access to exclusive club lounges with upscale food and beverage options, in-seat wait service, climate-controlled indoor space, and private restrooms. You’re getting complimentary food (buffet-style with hot entrees, sides, desserts) and soft drinks. Beer and cocktails are available for purchase. Shorter bathroom lines and less crowded concourses than general admission areas.
The vibe: This feels like a real club without the stuffiness of Champions Club. You’re around season ticket holders and alumni who care about the game, not just corporate types schmoozing clients. The lounges get crowded before kickoff and at halftime, but they’re spacious enough to handle it. Food quality is solid—way better than concourse hot dogs and nachos, but not fine dining. Think pulled pork, chicken, pasta dishes, salads, and desserts. The atmosphere is relaxed but connected to the game.
Who this is for: Season ticket holders who want premium amenities without maxing out their budget. Alumni groups. Fans who go to 3+ games per season and want a comfortable home base. Families who want climate control and good food without the Champions Club price tag. This is the sweet spot for Georgia fans who want to upgrade without breaking the bank.
The math: You’re paying $100-150 more per game than regular lower bowl seats, but you’re getting free food, climate control, comfortable seating, and shorter lines. If you’re staying for the whole game and eating/drinking, you break even or come out ahead. For season ticket holders, this is a no-brainer. For single-game buyers, it’s worth it if you can access it.
Other Notable Clubs
The SkyClub (sections 328-334) is unique—you’re seated outside in fully covered chairback seats in the highest rows of the upper deck, but you have access to a 6,000-square-foot climate-controlled lounge inside. The lounge includes interior seating, dining tables, private restrooms, 25+ flat-screen TVs, and a buffet with specialty desserts and Coke products. Season tickets are approximately $1,200, which is mid-range between South & North Club and Champions Club. Best for fans who want premium amenities and covered outdoor seating without paying Champions Club prices. The view is elevated and excellent for seeing the full field, but you’re not as close to the action as the 200-level clubs.
The East Upper Club and East Lower Club offer similar amenities to South & North Club but on the end zone side of the stadium. Pricing varies but generally falls in the $300-750 per season range. Good option if you prefer end zone sightlines and want club access.
Suites & Group Options
Suites at Sanford Stadium hold 10-20 guests and run $3,000-$15,000+ per game depending on size, location, and opponent. The 27 SkySuites on the north side are climate-controlled private spaces with comfortable seating, TVs, and access to the SkyClub lounge.
Sanford Stadium Seating Chart
Sanford Stadium in Athens has a seating capacity of 92,746.This makes it the ninth-largest football stadium in the NCAA and the 17th-largest stadium in the world. The stadium has undergone several expansions and renovations over the years, with the most recent major expansion taking place in 2004 when 27 SkySuites were added to the north side of the stadium. Here is a link to the most updated Seating Chart Of Sanford Stadium.
Tickets To Georgia Football Games
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Ticket Exchanges and Fan Forums: Explore ticket exchanges or fan forums dedicated to Georgia football, such as the DawgVent or The Dawg Shed. These platforms may have fans looking to sell or exchange tickets. Be cautious when dealing with individuals, and verify the authenticity of the tickets before making a purchase.
Georgia Bulldog Club: Consider becoming a member of the Georgia Bulldog Club (https://thegeorgiabulldogclub.com/). Club members receive priority access to tickets, including premium seating options and exclusive pre-sales. Membership levels vary, so choose the one that best fits your needs.
Official University of Georgia Athletics Website: Visit the official website of UGA Athletics to purchase tickets directly from the university. They typically offer season tickets, single-game tickets, and various ticket packages. Keep an eye on the website for ticket release dates and availability.
Sanford Stadium Insider Tips
Athens on game day is as much about tradition and atmosphere as it is about football—plan to get there early and stay late.
Access & Gate Strategy
Gate 3 is the magic gate for students and first-timers who want the real experience. It’s located behind Reed Hall, and if you show up two hours before kickoff, you can get a wristband for the main student section near the band (sections 138-143). These wristbands are color-coded by section, and they control which area you can access—enter through Gate 1 and you’re stuck in the west end zone student section, not the prime seats. Non-students can’t access this, but if you’re a UGA student or visiting with one, this is the move.
For everyone else, all gates open two hours before kickoff. The north side gates (2, 3, 4) tend to be less crowded than the south side gates because most fans enter on the home side. If you’re sitting on the visitor side (north), enter there and save yourself 10-15 minutes in line. Gate 6 is where the shuttle buses drop off, so avoid that gate unless you’re riding the shuttle—it’s a bottleneck.
New for recent seasons: the Gillis Bridge is now inside the stadium and requires ticket entry. You can only access it through Gates 1 and 9, so if you’re trying to get to the west end zone or want to walk across the bridge for photos, plan your route accordingly.
Food & Drink Strategy
Huey Magoo’s chicken tenders are now available inside Sanford Stadium and are legitimately the best concession option. They’re hand-breaded, grilled or “sauced,” and way better than your standard stadium hot dog. Find them in the concourse and grab them early—lines build by halftime.
The concessions on the club level (200 level) are less crowded and have better options than the main concourses, and you don’t need club tickets to access them during the game. Walk up to the 200 level and buy food there if the lower concourse is packed.
You can bring one unopened bottle of water (20 ounces or less) into the stadium. Nothing else—no outside food, no snacks, no other drinks. If it’s a hot September game, bring that bottle of water. You’ll save $5-6 and stay hydrated.
Strategic timing: buy food during the second quarter or late in the third quarter. Halftime is when everyone floods the concessions, and you’ll wait 20+ minutes for a $12 hot dog. Go early or late and you’ll be in and out in five minutes.
Stadium Traditions & Culture
“Calling the Dawgs” is the tradition here—fans shout “Gooooo Dawgs, Sic ‘Em, Woof Woof Woof” throughout the game, and if you’re not doing it, you’re not really at a Georgia game. The band plays “Krypton Fanfare” and the video boards cue fans when to do it, but honestly, it happens organically all game long. Just follow the crowd and bark along.
The Chapel Bell on North Campus is where fans rush after Georgia wins. It’s been a tradition since the 1890s—students used to be required to ring the bell until midnight after victories, and now anyone can ring it. The bell is located near The Arch on North Campus, a short walk from the stadium. If Georgia wins, stick around and walk over—it’s one of those moments that makes college football special.
Between the Hedges isn’t just a phrase—it’s literal. The privet hedges that ring the field were planted in 1929 and have been carefully maintained ever since. Sitting in the lower bowl end zones (sections 101-105 or 133-137) puts you right on top of them. Fans take photos with the hedges before and after games, and if you’re visiting for the first time, it’s a must-do.
Instagrammable Spots & Photo Ops
The Arch on North Campus is the most iconic photo spot in Athens. It’s a five-minute walk from Sanford Stadium and every first-time visitor takes a photo there. Best time to shoot is early morning or late afternoon when the light hits it perfectly.
The Chapel Bell (also on North Campus near The Arch) is another classic shot, especially after a win when fans are ringing it.
Inside the stadium, shoot from the lower bowl end zones with the hedges in the foreground. Sections 101-105 or 133-137 give you the best angle to capture the field, the hedges, and the packed crowd. Best time is right before kickoff when the place is full and the energy is building.
The scoreboard in the west end zone is massive—shoot from the east side of the stadium (sections 120-143) to get the full board with the crowd in the frame.
Campus Shuttle
Use the free campus shuttle from the East Campus Parking Deck to Gate 6 and skip the parking lot nightmare entirely. The shuttle starts running 3.5 hours before kickoff and drops you right at the stadium. After the game, it runs continuously for at least an hour while traffic clears. The East Campus Deck is free or low-cost (depending on your pass situation), and you avoid sitting in gridlock for an hour after the game trying to get out of campus parking lots. Most out-of-town fans waste 30-60 minutes stuck in post-game traffic—shuttle riders are out of the deck and on their way to downtown Athens bars in 20 minutes. Bonus: the shuttle is accessible for fans with disabilities, so it’s the best option if you or someone in your group has mobility issues.
Sanford Stadium Bag Policy
Sanford Stadium enforces a clear bag policy. Only the following bags are allowed:
- Clear plastic, vinyl, or PVC bags up to 12″ x 12″
- One-gallon clear Ziploc bags
- Small clutch bags (5.5″ x 7.5″ or smaller, clear or not clear)
Prohibited: backpacks, tinted bags, oversized bags, diaper bags (unless clear and under 12″ x 12″), fanny packs, camera bags. If you show up with a prohibited bag, you’ll have to take it back to your car or throw it away—there’s no bag check.
Exception: Medical bags, breast pumps, and nursing supplies are allowed after inspection at Gate 6 and Gate 10 (Medical Bag Check locations). Baby bottles, snacks, and food/drinks necessary for childcare are also allowed after inspection.
Other Key Polices
For the most current and detailed information on policies and procedures, it’s advisable to check thepolicy page or contact the venue before attending an event. Here are a list of some of the main ones to be aware of:
No Re-entry Policy: Once you leave Sanford Stadium, you cannot come back in. Your ticket is scanned on exit and becomes invalid. This is strictly enforced, so if you need to go to your tailgate at halftime or leave early, plan accordingly. Unlike most stadiums, Georgia doesn’t allow re-entry under any circumstances
Alcohol Policy: Any ticket holder found in the stadium with an intoxicant will be subject to ejection without refund. The stadium has a zero-tolerance policy for bringing in alcoholic beverages.
Cashless Stadium: All concessions, merchandise, and other purchases require electronic payment methods including credit cards, debit cards, and mobile payment apps like Apple Pay, Google Pay, Samsung Pay, and other contactless options.
For a full list of policies, check out the Sanford Stadium Website.
Parking At Sanford Stadium
thens is a college town, so game day traffic is brutal—public transit and shuttles work better than driving unless you’re tailgating. Rideshare is an option but gets expensive with surge pricing after the game.
Reserved parking is controlled by the Georgia Bulldog Club and requires donations. Most lots surrounding the stadium are for donors only and use digital permits. If you don’t have a reserved spot, your best options are:
- East Campus Parking Deck: Free or low-cost depending on your pass situation. Use the free shuttle to Gate 6.
- Intramural Fields: Overflow parking that opens on a game-by-game basis depending on demand. Also has shuttle service to Gate 6.
- Downtown Athens parking decks or street parking: Park downtown (free or cheap depending on location) and walk 15-20 minutes to the stadium, or take the bus if available.
Parking lots open early (specific times vary by lot), but plan to arrive 3-4 hours before kickoff for big games if you want a good spot. After the game, expect to wait 30-60 minutes to exit parking lots depending on where you parked—traffic control doesn’t let cars move until the main roads clear.
Free Campus Shuttle (Best Option for Non-Tailgaters)
UGA provides free game day shuttles from the East Campus Parking Deck (and occasionally the Ramsey Center or Intramural Fields if overflow parking is needed) to Gate 6 at Sanford Stadium. Shuttles start running 3.5 hours before kickoff and stop 15 minutes after kickoff. After the game, shuttles run continuously for at least an hour, usually longer until traffic clears. This is the easiest way to get to the stadium if you’re not tailgating—park at the East Campus Deck, ride the shuttle, and avoid sitting in post-game traffic for an hour. The shuttles are accessible for fans with disabilities.
Rideshare (Uber/Lyft)
Dropoff: The best spots are near Tate Student Center on the north side of campus, or East Campus Road near the Lettermen’s Club on the east side. Some drivers also drop off near the double-barrel cannon by City Hall or Baldwin Street on the east side, but those are farther walks.
Pickup: Pickup locations vary depending on where you’re heading after the game, but Baldwin and East Campus (heading toward Oconee Street) or Baxter and Lumpkin (on the west side) are the most accessible for drivers. Here’s the catch: rideshare drivers can’t access the stadium area until post-game traffic clears, which takes 30-45 minutes. Expect surge pricing of 2-3x normal rates right after the game. If you’re taking rideshare, either leave early (end of the third quarter) or hang around downtown Athens for 30-45 minutes to let traffic die down and avoid the surge.
Cost: $10-20 from downtown Athens to the stadium on a normal day; expect $25-50+ after the game with surge pricing.
Walking
If you’re staying in downtown Athens or near campus, Sanford Stadium is a 15-20 minute walk from most hotels and bars. The walk is safe, well-lit on game days, and you’ll pass dozens of tailgates on the way. Aggieville bars and restaurants are a 10-minute walk from the stadium. Walking beats parking drama and gets you into the game day atmosphere early. Just wear comfortable shoes—Athens has hills, and you’ll be on your feet all day.
Fun Gameday Bars and Restaurants in Athens
Athens transforms into a sea of red and black every football Saturday, with thousands of fans flooding the Classic City hours before kickoff. The magic happens in two main areas: the bustling downtown district just steps from campus, and the immediate campus area surrounding Sanford Stadium. Downtown Athens, with its charming Victorian architecture and pedestrian-friendly streets, becomes the epicenter of pre-game festivities, while spots closer to the stadium offer convenient options for those who want to stay near the action.
The beauty of Athens game day is the walkability – most fans park once and explore on foot, creating a festival-like atmosphere that builds throughout the day. Downtown bars and restaurants see crowds starting as early as Friday night, with the energy reaching fever pitch on Saturday as fans make the scenic 10-15 minute walk from downtown to Sanford Stadium. Campus-area spots offer a more intimate experience, often with shorter waits and easier access to restrooms and parking.
Top Game Day Bars & Viewing Spots
Paloma Park continues to be one of Athens’ most unique game day destinations. This fun Tapas spot opened in 2021, and it’s built up quite the devoted crowd of fans who like to watch their game of choice in Paloma Park’s beer garden. With a Jumbotron playing up to 4 football games at once, street food from around the world, and cocktails, wine, and beer at the bar, you can’t go wrong with Paloma Park on gameday.
Georgia Theatre Rooftop remains a game day classic, offering fantastic views of downtown Athens and the perfect atmosphere to mingle with fellow fans before and after games.
Athentic Brewing Company is now the official location for UGA Alumni Game-Watching parties, located on Park Avenue with great craft beer and a dedicated Dawgs crowd.
Creature Comforts Brewing Company has the perfect game day atmosphere with outdoor and indoor space and continues to be an Athens institution, setting up big screens under their tent for gameday viewing.
Bar South continues as Athens’ go-to sports bar with TVs throughout, pool tables, darts, and an extensive beer selection – still the perfect spot for classic bar games and cold drinks.
Blue Sky Bar serves craft beers and cocktails with a rustic feel and a rooftop patio, offering a more laid-back game day experience downtown.
Akademia Brewing Company is a newer addition to the scene, featuring an extensive beer menu “From Pilsner to Lager, IPA to Stealer, Sours to Ciders and everything in between.” For the non-beer drinkers their menu also includes classic margs and more signature cocktails like the Georgia Peach or Espresso Martini.
Tate Theater (Tate Student Center) provides movie-theater-like seating, a large projection screen, and is in a prime location across from Sanford Stadium – perfect for families wanting to escape downtown crowds.
Must-Try Restaurants
Clocked is mentioned as one of downtown’s hot spots and great for burgers, making it perfect for pre-game fuel.
Trappeze Pub is highlighted among downtown Athens’ hot spots, offering a great atmosphere for game day dining.
Blind Pig Tavern rounds out the downtown hot spots with excellent food and a lively game day crowd.
Ted’s Most Best serves yummy slices of artisan pizza – perfect for sharing with your group.
Amici is the go-to spot for wings – ideal for traditional tailgating flavors.
Hotels Near Sanford Stadium
Most fans drive in for the day from Atlanta (about 90 minutes away) or elsewhere in Georgia, but if you’re traveling from out of state or want the full Athens experience, staying downtown puts you in the middle of the action. Downtown Athens is a 15-20 minute walk to Sanford Stadium, and the bar and restaurant scene before and after games is part of the experience.
Luxury Hotels
Graduate Athens: Located near the University of Georgia campus, this upscale hotel combines Southern charm with modern amenities. It offers stylish rooms, a rooftop bar, and is within walking distance of downtown Athens.
The Foundry Park Inn & Spa: Set in a restored historic building, this boutique hotel offers elegant rooms, a full-service spa, and an outdoor courtyard. It’s a tranquil retreat just a short distance from the excitement of gameday festivities.
Hyatt Place Athens Downtown: With its central location, this contemporary hotel provides comfortable rooms, a rooftop pool, and a 24/7 fitness center. It’s within walking distance of many popular attractions, including Sanford Stadium.
Hotel Indigo Athens Downtown: This boutique hotel showcases vibrant decor and a lively atmosphere. It features stylish rooms, an on-site restaurant, and a rooftop bar with stunning views of the city.
The Georgia Gameday Center: If you prefer a spacious suite-style accommodation, this hotel is an excellent choice. It offers fully furnished condos with kitchenettes and is located near the heart of downtown Athens.
Budget-Friendly Options
Holiday Inn Athens-University Area: Situated close to the university campus, this affordable hotel offers comfortable rooms, an outdoor pool, and an on-site restaurant. It’s a convenient choice for those looking for value and proximity to gameday activities.
Best Western Athens: This budget-friendly hotel features well-appointed rooms, complimentary breakfast, and an outdoor pool. It offers easy access to downtown Athens and the university.
Sleep Inn & Suites Athens: Offering modern rooms and a complimentary breakfast, this hotel provides good value for money. It’s located just a short drive away from the downtown area and the university.
Howard Johnson by Wyndham Athens: This budget-friendly hotel offers clean and comfortable rooms, along with complimentary breakfast. It’s conveniently situated near major highways for easy access to gameday events.
Super 8 by Wyndham Athens: Ideal for travelers on a tight budget, this hotel provides basic amenities, comfortable rooms, and complimentary breakfast. It’s located within a short drive of downtown Athens and the university.
The key is booking early – Athens transforms from a college town of 130,000 to a temporary city of 200,000+ on football Saturdays, and accommodations fill up months in advance for big SEC matchups. Many seasoned fans prefer staying slightly outside the immediate downtown core to balance accessibility with the ability to actually get some sleep before game day festivities begin.
Things To Do In Athens
Athens is a vibrant and culturally rich college town with plenty of fun things to do when you’re in town for a weekend or any time really.. Here are some suggestions for activities while in Athens:
Visit the Georgia Museum of Art: Explore a wide range of art exhibits, including American paintings, European art, decorative arts, and more.
Take a stroll in the State Botanical Garden of Georgia: Enjoy the beautiful gardens, nature trails, and the tropical conservatory. It’s a great place to relax and connect with nature.
Attend a show at the Georgia Theatre: This historic venue hosts live music concerts, comedy shows, and other performances. It’s a great spot to catch local and touring artists.
Experience the vibrant music scene: Athens is known for its rich musical heritage. Check out local venues like 40 Watt Club, Caledonia Lounge, or The Foundry for live music performances.
Why You Should Go
Sanford Stadium is one of the most storied venues in college football, and the atmosphere between the hedges on a Saturday afternoon is something every fan should experience at least once. The traditions are real—the Dawg Walk, Calling the Dawgs, ringing the Chapel Bell after wins—and the crowd of 92,746 creates a noise level that genuinely impacts games. Athens is a legitimate college town where the bars, restaurants, and entire community revolve around Georgia football, so game day feels like a festival that starts Friday night and doesn’t end until Sunday morning. If you want authentic SEC football in one of the best college towns in America, this is the place.
If you’re headed to World’s Largest Cocktail party check out our guide to Everbank Stadium, as well as some of our other SEC and College Football Guides.
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.