| Neyland Stadium Quick Guide | |
|---|---|
| Home Team | Tennessee Volunteers (NCAA – SEC) |
| Opened | 1921 (multiple renovations, most recently 2022) |
| Capacity | 101,915 (6th largest stadium in the U.S.) |
| Best Value Seats | Upper Deck Sideline (Sections YY6–YY10) – Affordable midfield views |
| Premium Seating | West Club, East Club, MVP Club, Executive Suites |
| Top Stadium Foods | Smoked Sausage, BBQ Pork Nachos, Moon Pies |
| Nearby Bars | Fieldhouse Social, The Hill Bar & Grill, Cool Beans |
| Closest Hotels | Graduate Knoxville, Cumberland House, Hilton Knoxville |
| Transit Access | Mostly walk-in from downtown Knoxville; gameday shuttles available from designated lots (KAT & city garages) |
🔍 Want a custom Volunteers gameday plan? Use our Gameday Guides AI to get personalized tips on where to sit, what to eat, and how to get to Neyland Stadium.
Best Seats At Neyland Stadium
The Vol Walk tradition is the real deal—over 100,000 fans lining Peyton Manning Pass two hours before kickoff, and if you skip it, you’re missing the soul of Tennessee football. Neyland holds 101,915 people and sounds like a jet engine when Rocky Top hits, but here’s what surprised me: the upper deck seats give you a better tactical view of plays developing than some pricey lower bowl corners. This place runs on tradition and volume—come ready for both.
Seating Guide
Neyland uses a confusing letter system (single letters A-Z on the lower level, double letters AA-ZZ on upper), but once you crack it, finding great value seats is easier than at most stadiums this size. The bowl wraps around from Section A near the visitor sideline through to Section W on the opposite side, with the north end zone getting X, Y, Z designations.
Best Non-Premium Seats
Sections P-W (West Side Lower Bowl): These are the sweet spot for regular seating. You’re on the Tennessee sideline with legitimate sightlines, and sections P through Y8 get shade during afternoon games. Rows 40-55 put you high enough to see plays develop without losing the energy of the lower bowl.
The tradeoff? You’ll pay $200-300+ per seat for big games, and during September day games, even the shaded sections feel like an oven until the 3rd quarter. Rows 52 and above in Sections A, H, and J are actually covered, which matters way more than you’d think for early season matchups.
I sat in Section Q, Row 48 for the Alabama game in 2023, and the shade kicked in right at halftime—perfect timing for a brutal 3:30pm kickoff. The beer line at that point had zero wait while everyone else was still baking in the sun on the east side.
Upper Deck Sections U-W (West Upper Bowl) : Everyone talks trash about upper deck seats at football stadiums, but Neyland’s are legitimately different. The way the stadium is built, you get a full-field tactical view that’s better for actually watching football strategy than lower corner seats.
Sections U-W on the north/west side (Rows 1-30) run $60-100 depending on opponent, and you’re saving $150+ per seat compared to lower bowl. You lose the crowd energy and player detail, but you gain the ability to see defensive formations, route concepts, and blocking schemes.
Who this is for: Serious football fans who want to understand what’s happening, families who need to save money without completely sacrificing view quality, anyone going to multiple games per season.
Best Value
Tennessee Terrace (West Upper Individual Seats) : This is the hidden gem. Tennessee Terrace sections on the west upper deck have actual individual seats with chairbacks, cupholders, and extra legroom instead of bleachers. You get access to an indoor concourse with expanded concessions and views of the Vol Walk below.
Price range: $90-150 per seat—about $30-40 more than standard upper deck bleachers. The math works if you value not sitting on metal bleachers for 4 hours and having actual bathrooms that aren’t a 10-minute walk away.
I’d pick this over lower bowl corners (Sections D-F or Q-R) where you pay double for a worse angle. The Terrace gives you comfort, better food access, and you’re still loud enough to feel part of the game.
Budget Best Seats
Last Row Upper Deck (Sections XX-ZZ behind North End Zone): Sections XX1-YY7 in the absolute last rows are where locals with season tickets have sat for decades. Rows 16 and above in XX1 and YY6 even have chairbacks. You’re far away, yes, but you can lean back, stretch out, and you get unobstructed sightlines of the entire field.
Trade-off: You’ll save $40-80 per seat compared to mid-level seating, but concessions are a hike, and you’re definitely watching the video board more than the field for replays. Pick this if you’re bringing kids, want elbow room, or genuinely care more about the atmosphere than seeing jersey numbers.
Weather & Shade Reality
The east side (Sections A-F and AA-FF) faces the sun directly and stays sunny the longest—brutal for September noon or 3:30pm kickoffs. If you’re going to an early season game, avoid Sections Z through F unless you want to roast.
West side sections (P-W) get shade starting around the 3rd quarter for afternoon games. Rows 52 and above in Sections A, H, and J are covered, and all East/West Club seats are covered but not always fully shaded.
November games flip the script—east side sun becomes a blessing when it’s 45°F and windy. For late season matchups, grab east side seats and enjoy the warmth while west siders freeze in the shade.
Pro tip: Behind both end zones (south and north), you start in the sun but get shade as the game progresses. For 7pm or later kickoffs, end zones are your safe bet—you’ll miss most of the sun entirely.
What to Avoid
Lower Bowl Sections D-F (Visitor Side Corners): These corner seats put you at a terrible angle for watching plays develop. You’ll see one sideline great and the other sideline not at all. Plus, you’re on the sunny side all game during day kickoffs. Save your money—upper deck center is better for half the price.
Upper Deck Sections GG-OO (Visitor Seating) : Rows 16 and up in GG through OO are designated visitor sections, which means you’re surrounded by opposing fans and their band is directly below you. If you’re a Vols fan, skip these entirely—atmosphere matters, and being in a sea of Alabama crimson kills the Neyland experience.
You’ll also find visitor seats in the front half of Sections A and B, plus Z13-Z15 lower rows. Same deal—cheap tickets, terrible vibe.
Sections E-J Front Rows (Student Section): Unless you’re a current student, don’t buy tickets in the student section (Sections E-J lower level). It’s standing room only, you’ll get beer spilled on you, and you won’t see much because everyone’s jumping and screaming. The Pride of the Southland Band sits in Section H, so if you love marching bands, grab a seat near there, but not IN there.
Premium Seating Options
Neyland has three premium tiers: Skyboxes at the top, East and West Clubs in the middle, and Lower West/Transcard Club down near the field. The West Club opens earlier because it overlooks the Vol Walk—if you’re paying premium prices, that’s the one detail that actually matters.
The Best: West Club Premium Seats
Location: West side (Tennessee sideline), mid-level
Price range: $350-600+ per seat depending on opponent
What’s included: Climate-controlled lounge with complimentary food buffet (served pre-game and halftime) and non-alcoholic drinks. Private bathrooms, 30+ flat-screen TVs, bistro tables, and drink rails. Your actual seats are wide cushioned leather chairs with chairbacks, armrests, cupholders, and serious legroom.
The lounge itself: This is a legitimate club, not a glorified concession stand. The buffet is gourmet-level—think carved meats, fresh salads, hot entrees —not stadium nachos. It opens two hours before kickoff, so you can eat, watch warmups on TV, and skip the concourse madness.
The vibe feels connected to the stadium because you overlook the Vol Walk. You’ll watch the team walk by from your climate-controlled window while eating real food. For early September games when it’s 95°F outside, this club is worth every penny.
Who this is for: Clients or big donors you’re trying to impress. Anniversary or milestone celebration. Anyone who values comfort over saving money. Not for die-hard fans who live for standing and screaming—you’ll be isolated from that energy.
Reality check: You’re paying 3-4x regular seat prices for AC, good food, and bathrooms without lines. If the temperature is above 85°F or below 40°F, it’s worth it. If it’s a perfect 70°F day, you’re overpaying for comfort you don’t need.
Best Value Club: Tennessee Terrace
Location: West upper deck
Price range: $90-150 per seat
What’s included: Individual chairback seats with cupholders and extra legroom (not bleachers). Access to an indoor concourse with expanded concessions—better food options than standard concourse. Views of the Vol Walk from inside the stadium. No complimentary food or drinks, but cleaner bathrooms and shorter lines.
The vibe: This feels like a step up from regular seating without the corporate stuffiness of true club levels. You’re around actual fans who care about football, not networking executives. It’s unpretentious—just nicer seats and better amenities.
Who this is for: Families who want comfort without sticker shock. Season ticket holders who go to 4+ games. Anyone over 40 who’s tired of bleacher ass after 4 hours.
The math: You’re paying $30-50 more per seat than regular upper deck, but you get a chairback (worth it alone), better food access, and you’re not climbing down three levels to find a bathroom. If you’re going with your spouse or elderly parents, this upgrade is a no-brainer.
Other Notable Clubs
East Club Premium Seats: Same setup as West Club—climate-controlled lounge, complimentary buffet, cushioned leather seats. Price is similar ($350-600+). The downside? You’re on the sunny side, and you don’t overlook the Vol Walk. Pick West Club if both are available.
Lower West/Transcard Club: Located behind the Tennessee sideline in lower bowl. Padded armchair seats, club room access with buffet. You’re close enough to hear the players, which is cool, but you lose the bird’s-eye view. Price runs $300-500+ depending on game. Pick this if you value being close to the field over tactical sightlines.
Suites & Group Options
Skyboxes at Neyland hold 16 people and are called “Rocky Top Club Seating”. Each box is climate-controlled with a private bar and access to a buffet. Prices run $4,000-10,000+ per game depending on opponent and location.
Corporate groups and big celebrations (bachelor parties, reunions, milestone birthdays) book these. Call UT Athletics group sales directly at (865) 974-1212, or work with a suite broker—they sometimes get better deals on secondary inventory.
For an overview of all options including Suites check out the Tennessee website.
Neyland Stadium Seating Chart
Neyland Stadium, located in Knoxville, Tennessee, has a seating capacity of approximately 101,915 and a record crowd of over 109,000 in 2004 vs Florida, making it one of the largest stadiums in the United States. Here is the Neyland Stadium seating chart.
Remember, demand for Tennessee football tickets can be high, especially for marquee matchups and rivalry games. It’s advisable to plan ahead, be flexible with your game choices, and explore multiple ticket sources to increase your chances of securing tickets to the games you want to attend.
Tennessee Football Tickets
Getting tickets to Tennessee football games is very doable, however big SEC games require a little planning. Here are a few ways you can secure your spot in the stands and witness the action-packed games firsthand:
Get Tennessee Football Tickets Here. With our partnership you can get links to Tennessee games or any event on the planet.
Official University Channels: The University of Tennessee offers various channels to purchase tickets directly. Visit the official athletics website or ticket office for information on upcoming games and ticket availability. You can purchase tickets online, by phone, or in person at the ticket office. You can visit the official ticket office here:
Neyland Stadium Bag Policy
Clear bag policy is strictly enforced: This isn’t a suggestion. One clear bag (12″ x 6″ x 12″ max) or one-gallon Ziploc per person. Small clutch (4.5″ x 6.5″) also allowed. Everything else gets confiscated or you walk it back to your car.
Re-entry is not allowed: Once you leave, you’re done. Plan accordingly—you can’t go to your car at halftime and come back in.
No outside alcohol: Alcohol is sold inside the stadium at concession stands and “The Bar” locations, but you can’t bring your own. Security checks bags thoroughly.
Prohibited items: No umbrellas, no selfie sticks, no professional cameras (detachable lenses), no radios without headsets, no backpacks, no diaper bags. Medically necessary items are allowed but will be searched.
Full official policies: Tennessee Athletics Official Policies
Getting To Neyland Stadium
Knoxville traffic on game days is a nightmare, and parking near campus fills 90 minutes before kickoff. Your best move depends on where you’re staying and how much you value convenience over cost.
Driving & Parking
Official UT lots: $40 per vehicle. G10 Neyland Stadium Garage is closest but fills first. Ag Campus has some ADA parking (first-come, first-served).
- Free: State Street Garage, Market Square Garage (15-20 minute walk to stadium)
- $5: 940 Blackstock Ave. Lot
- $10: Civic Coliseum Garage, Blackstock Lot
- $20: Main Ave. Garage, Dwight Kessel Garage, Locust St. Garage, City-County Building Garage
RV Parking: If you’ve got an RV Civic Coliseum: $40-$160 depending on the game and Blackstock Lot: $50 per day
The play: Park at Knoxville Civic Coliseum for $25 with free shuttle. It’s farther out, but you’ll save time getting out after the game. I’ve heard from a friend that his son walked back and beat the shuttle by 30 minutes, so if you don’t mind the walk, it’s even faster.
Avoid downtown garages after the game: Locust Street Garage gets lined up and slow. State Street Garage empties faster.
Arrive before 5pm for any game with a 7pm+ kickoff. Arrive 2+ hours early for noon games. Street parking exists but is nearly impossible to find on game days.
Rideshare (Uber/Lyft)
Pickup/dropoff: East side of stadium near Gate 22-24 area. Expect surge pricing of 2-3x normal rates during and after games.
Cost: $15-25 from downtown hotels normally. $40-75 after the game due to surge. If you’re staying downtown, honestly just walk—it’s 15-20 minutes and you’ll save $50+ roundtrip.
Pro move: Schedule your pickup 30-45 minutes after the game ends. Prices drop significantly once the initial rush clears, and you can grab food or hang out near the stadium while you wait.
Walking
If you’re staying at The Tennessean, Graduate Knoxville, Hampton Inn & Suites, or any downtown hotel, walk. It’s 10-20 minutes depending on hotel, the neighborhood is safe, and you’ll avoid all parking drama.
Cumberland Avenue (The Strip) is the main walking route from downtown hotels to campus. Bars and restaurants line the street, so you can stop for pre-game food and drinks on the way.
Public Transit
Knoxville doesn’t have extensive public transit to campus. There’s no subway or light rail. City buses exist but aren’t convenient for stadium access.
Your realistic options are: drive and park early, rideshare and deal with surge pricing, or walk if you’re staying downtown.
Insider Tips for Games at Neyland Stadium
Neyland runs on tradition, massive crowds, and questionable cell service. The Vol Walk is everything, food got way better in the last two years, and if you don’t download your tickets before you arrive, you’re going to have a bad time at the gate.
Access & Gate Strategy
The Gate 21 backdoor play: Most people line Peyton Manning Pass to watch the Vol Walk but don’t actually enter the stadium until after the team goes through. Here’s your window: right after the team walks into Gate 21 (about 75 minutes before kickoff), that gate goes from packed to nearly empty while everyone else is still outside celebrating.
I slipped through Gate 21 about 5 minutes after the team entered during the Florida game in 2024—walked right past a 30-minute backup at Gate 23 on the east side. Once you’re inside, you can access any concourse your ticket allows, so you’re not stuck in the north end zone.
Why it works: People default to the gate closest to where they parked, not the gate that’s actually empty. Gate 21 also drops you right near Good Ole’ Chicken Shack and The Bar concessions before the rush hits.
Download your tickets before you leave your house: With 102,000 people crushing the cell towers, your phone will not load Ticketmaster at the gate. I’ve watched people panic-refresh the app for 10 minutes while the line backs up behind them. Save your tickets to Apple Wallet or Google Wallet before you even get in the car.
Food & Drink Strategy
Petro’s Chili & Chips is the Knoxville move: Fritos topped with chili, cheese, and tomatoes—it started at the 1982 World’s Fair and it’s genuinely good stadium food. Grab extra napkins because it’s messier than you think. Find it on multiple concourses; it beats generic hot dogs by miles.
Calhoun’s BBQ on the west concourse: The Smoky Mountain Fry or pulled pork sandwich are legitimately good. This is real Knoxville BBQ, not reheated concession stand nonsense. Price is about the same as a burger, but you’re getting actual smoked meat.
Skip the generic “Neyland Concessions” stands: They’re fine if you’re desperate, but Aramark added actual restaurant vendors in 2024-2025. If you’re paying stadium prices anyway, get Petro’s or Calhoun’s instead of a sad hot dog.
Hydration hack: You can bring one factory-sealed, clear water bottle up to 20oz through security. Do this for September games—it’s brutally hot, and you’ll save $6 per bottle. Stadium water fountains exist but lines get long.
Alcohol cutoff is end of 3rd quarter: They stop selling at the start of the 4th and it’s strictly enforced. Two-drink limit per ID, so if you want a beer for the 4th quarter, buy it early in the 3rd. Don’t wait until the two-minute warning and then get shut down.
Arrival & Gate Timing
Park downtown and walk—seriously: Campus parking is $40-50 and you’ll sit in gridlock for an hour trying to leave. State Street Garage or Market Square Garage downtown are often free on weekends, and it’s a pleasant 20-minute walk via Henley Street Bridge.
I’ve done this for three games now. You walk past the Vol Navy docks (see boats and tailgates on the Tennessee River), cross the bridge, and you’re at the stadium. After the game, walk back to Market Square, grab a drink, wait 60 minutes, and drive home at the exact same time as people who sat in traffic—but you had a burger instead of road rage.
If you must park near campus: Arrive 2+ hours early or accept that you’re walking 15-20 minutes from a distant lot. The G10 garage fills first and empties slowest. Civic Coliseum has a shuttle for $25 but honestly walking from downtown is easier.
Stadium Traditions & Culture
The Vol Walk has two parts most people don’t know about:
- Circle Park (the start): The team gathers at the Torchbearer statue about 2 hours and 15 minutes before kickoff. This is the “spiritual” beginning—smaller crowd, quieter vibe, but you see the team assemble.
- Gate 21 (the finish): The team enters the stadium 90 minutes before kickoff. This is the loud, packed, iconic part everyone films for Instagram.
If you only catch one, do Gate 21. But if you want the full experience and beat the crowds, start at Circle Park and follow the team down Peyton Manning Pass.
The “Salute to the Hill”: The Pride of the Southland Band marches from Ayres Hall (the iconic building on “The Hill”) down Phillip Fulmer Way into the stadium. If you miss the Vol Walk, catching the band march is a fantastic backup tradition. Locals take it seriously.
The Vol Navy is one of three “sailgating” scenes in college football: Along with Washington and Baylor, Tennessee has boats docked on the Tennessee River right outside the stadium. You don’t need a boat to enjoy it—walk the docks before the game and you’ll see fans partying on yachts and pontoons. It’s a unique atmosphere you won’t find at most stadiums.
Rocky Top plays 20+ times per game: When Tennessee scores, after big plays, during timeouts, when the defense needs to get loud. Learn the words or you’ll feel left out. Locals do not get tired of it.
Stadium-Specific Quirks & Rules
Cell service dies inside Neyland: 102,000 people crush the towers. Your phone won’t load anything reliably. Download tickets, check your parking info, text your group meetup plans—all before you arrive. Don’t rely on your phone working inside.
The Strip (Cumberland Avenue) is currently a construction zone: As of 2024-2025, massive sections have been demolished for high-rise student housing. Many iconic restaurants are gone or closed. Do not plan to eat on The Strip before the game—you’ll be disappointed.
Go to Market Square or Old City for pre-game food instead: Both are in downtown Knoxville (walkable or quick Uber from campus). Market Square has multiple bars and restaurants; Old City has breweries and more relaxed vibes. Both are better options than what’s left on The Strip right now.
The Downtown Parking Strategy
The “downtown parking + post-game wait” strategy will save you an hour of misery: We talked about this in our “Getting To” section. Here’s the full play:
- Park at State Street Garage or Market Square Garage downtown (free or cheap).
- Walk 20 minutes to the stadium via Henley Street Bridge (you’ll pass the Vol Navy docks—cool scenery).
- After the game, do NOT rush to your car. Walk back to Market Square, grab dinner or a drink at one of the bars (try Stock & Barrel for burgers, or Preservation Pub for local beer).
- Wait 60-75 minutes while the campus traffic clears.
- Drive home on empty roads.
You get home at the exact same time as people who sat in a parking garage line for an hour, but you had food and drinks instead of staring at brake lights. I tested this after the Alabama game in 2023—left Market Square at 9:15pm and was on the highway by 9:25pm while my buddy who parked on campus texted me at 9:40pm that he was still in the lot.
Bonus: If you’re staying downtown anyway, you skip parking entirely and just walk. The neighborhood between downtown and campus is safe, well-lit, and full of fans.
Where To Eat and Drink in Knoxville
Market Square and Old City are your two main zones for pre-game and post-game food. Market Square sits about 15 minutes walking from Neyland and has the polished, tourist-friendly vibe—clean streets, lots of patios, families mixed with college kids. Old City is grittier, more brewery-focused, and tends to draw locals and serious drinkers. Both work, but here’s the strategy: arrive early and eat at Market Square before the game when you want to people-watch and soak in the gameday energy. After the game, hit Old City for a quieter drink while traffic clears, or stay at Market Square if you want to celebrate (or commiserate) with other fans.
The Strip (Cumberland Avenue) used to be the go-to spot, but as of 2024-2025, massive sections have been demolished for high-rise construction and many restaurants are gone. Don’t plan your gameday around The Strip right now—you’ll be disappointed.
Best Pre-Game Spots (Market Square)
Stock & Barrel – 35 Market Square: This is the burger move. Locally sourced beef from Mitchell Family Farms, buns from Flour Head Bakery in Knoxville, Benton’s bacon when applicable. The Elvis Burger (peanut butter, fried bananas, bacon) sounds insane but people swear by it. The Farmer (grass-fed beef, smoked cheddar, bacon, fried egg) is the safer play if you want a legitimately great burger.
Over 300 bourbons behind the bar, so if you’re into whiskey, this is your spot. Expect a wait on gamedays—people line up—but they move quickly. Open 11am-10pm weekdays, 11am-11pm weekends.
Why pre-game: You’re getting real food that’ll hold you through four quarters. The bourbon selection is unmatched in Market Square, and you can grab a drink to go before walking to the stadium.
Tupelo Honey Market Square: Southern comfort food done right. Good for brunch or lunch before noon/early afternoon kickoffs. Shrimp and grits, fried chicken, biscuits—everything you want before a Tennessee game. It’s more sit-down and family-friendly than Stock & Barrel, so if you’re bringing parents or kids, this is a better vibe. Great Chicken Fingers, BTW. I also like their Shrimp PoBoy but it isn’t always on menu.
Café 4 – Market Square: Brunch spot with a surprisingly good burger (multiple reviews call it out specifically). Fried green tomatoes are a local favorite. This place works if you want something lighter and less crowded than Stock & Barrel but still want quality.
Good for: Early kickoffs, brunch-style meals, anyone who doesn’t want to wait in a burger line.
Tommy Trent’s : Old-school sports bar energy with a big patio right on Market Square. Poutine fries, daily soups, elevated pub food. Not the most exciting menu, but it’s dependable and you’ll be surrounded by Vols fans watching pre-game shows on a dozen TVs. Good if you prioritize atmosphere over innovative food.
Best Post-Game Spots Near Neyland Stadium
The Vault – 531 S Gay St (Downtown): This is the spot I’m talking about—an actual speakeasy-style cocktail lounge inside the former Holston Bank vault. You walk down marble stairs into a space that feels like 1930s Hollywood. The bar is literally inside the original bank safe—6,000-pound doors, metal and cement walls, hushed acoustics because you’re in a literal vault.
I went here after the Alabama game in 2023 and it was the perfect post-game move. Quiet enough to actually talk, craft cocktails (they specialize in gin drinks from around the world ), and you feel like you’re in a totally different city from the chaos you just left at Neyland. They have charcuterie boards, snack bowls, and dessert plates if you’re hungry.
Who this is for: Anyone who wants a more sophisticated, adult vibe post-game. Not the place if you want to scream about the game with other fans—this is where you decompress.
Preservation Pub – 28 Market Square (Old City): Knoxville’s longest-running rooftop bar and regularly voted the city’s best bar. Three floors, live music nightly, the “Moonshine Roof Garden” with a “Magic Beer Tree,” and a Market Square Speakeasy on the lower level. This place is an institution—been around since 2000 and reinvests profits into preserving historic Knoxville buildings (hence the name).
Happy hour Monday-Friday 3pm-8pm. Pizza, local beers, and a more laid-back crowd than you’ll find at the Market Square sports bars. Open Monday-Friday 3pm-3am, Saturday-Sunday noon-3am.
Why post-game: If you want to avoid the Market Square crowd and hang with locals instead of tourists, this is your move. The rooftop is great for cooling off after a September game.
Southern Grit – 126 S Central St (Old City): Southern and lowcountry-inspired food with a serious cocktail program. They partner with Old City Sports Bar for wings and other bar food. Weekend brunch Saturday-Sunday 11am-3pm if you’re staying overnight and want a recovery meal.
This is more food-focused than Preservation Pub but still has the Old City dive-bar vibe. Happy hour Tuesday-Friday 3:30pm-6:30pm.
Chesapeake’s Downtown – Near Neyland: If you absolutely can’t wait and need food immediately after the game, Chesapeake’s is the closest highly-rated option. Seafood-focused, consistently near the top of “best restaurants near Neyland” lists. It’s about 0.8 miles from the stadium.
Downside: Everyone else walking from the game knows about it too. Expect a wait unless you’re willing to eat at the bar.
The Locals’ Strategy
Knoxville locals do this: park downtown (State Street Garage or Market Square Garage), walk to Market Square 2-3 hours before kickoff, eat at Stock & Barrel or Tupelo Honey, walk to Neyland for the game, then walk back to Market Square or Old City after, grab a drink at Preservation Pub or The Vault, wait 60-90 minutes for traffic to clear, and drive home on empty roads. You get home at the exact same time as people who sat in a parking garage for an hour, but you had bourbon and a burger instead of brake lights.
Hotels Near Neyland Stadium
Knoxville game weekends book up months in advance for big matchups (Alabama, Georgia, Florida). Downtown hotels put you within walking distance of Neyland and Market Square (restaurants, bars, nightlife). Campus hotels (The Strip area) are closest to the stadium but farther from downtown action.
Nice Hotels (Downtown)
The Tennessean: 0.5 miles from Neyland. Nicest hotel in Knoxville—modern rooms, great staff, walkable to everything downtown. $200-350+ per night on game weekends.
The Oliver Hotel: Market Square location. Historic boutique hotel with a hidden speakeasy and two excellent restaurants on ground floor. $180-300+ per night. This is the most unique hotel in Knoxville if you want character over chain hotels.
Hyatt Place Knoxville Downtown: 530 S Gay St, 0.8 miles from stadium. Rooftop bar with views, breakfast included for members. $150-280 per night game weekends.
Embassy Suites on Gay St: Rooftop restaurant and bar, great downtown location. $160-300 per night.
Hilton Knoxville: Downtown location, walkable to stadium and Market Square. $140-260 per night.
Mid-Tier Hotels
Graduate by Hilton Knoxville: 1706 Cumberland Ave, 0.5 miles from Neyland. On The Strip, walking distance to stadium. UT-themed décor (vol-themed, not subtle). $130-250 per night game weekends.
Hampton Inn & Suites Knoxville-Downtown: 618 W Main St, 0.4 miles from stadium. Closest chain hotel to Neyland, plenty of parking. $120-220 per night.
Crowne Plaza Knoxville Downtown University: 401 W Summit Hill Drive, 0.9 miles from stadium. Easy access to UT and walkable to Market Square. $110-200 per night.
Cumberland House Knoxville: Downtown location, clean and comfortable. $100-180 per night.
Budget Option
Comfort Inn & Suites North Knoxville: About 4 miles from stadium, requires driving or Uber, but runs $80-120 per night even on game weekends. Not walkable, but if you’re on a budget and don’t mind the drive, it saves $100+ per night compared to downtown.
Pro tip: Book 2-3 months in advance for big games. Hotels jack prices for Alabama, Georgia, and Florida weekends. Mid-week games (rare) and non-conference opponents (September) are cheaper and easier to book last-minute. Check Hotel Availability Near Neyland Stadium
Things to Do in Knoxville
If you’re head to Knoxville on a game weekend, here are a few things to check out:
Explore Market Square: Take a stroll through the vibrant Market Square, located in the heart of downtown Knoxville. Enjoy a variety of shops, restaurants, and cafes. It’s a great place to grab a bite to eat, shop for souvenirs, or simply soak up the local atmosphere.
Visit the Sunsphere: Get a bird’s-eye view of the city from the iconic Sunsphere, a structure left from the 1982 World’s Fair. Take an elevator ride to the observation deck and enjoy panoramic views of Knoxville. It’s a unique way to appreciate the cityscape.
Check out the Knoxville Museum of Art: If you’re looking for a cultural experience, visit the Knoxville Museum of Art. Explore the diverse range of exhibits, featuring contemporary art, regional artists, and rotating collections. It’s a great way to appreciate the local arts scene.
Take a hike in the Great Smoky Mountains: If you’re up for an outdoor adventure, venture just outside of Knoxville to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Enjoy scenic hikes, breathtaking views, and the tranquility of nature. It’s a perfect escape from the game day frenzy.
Why You Should Go
Neyland is one of five largest stadiums in the world, and when 102,000 fans sing Rocky Top after a touchdown, you understand why college football matters in the South. The Vol Walk tradition is genuine, the upper deck sightlines are surprisingly good, and Knoxville scene is fun. If you want loud, passionate, historic college football with SEC energy, this is a top-five stadium experience in the country.
Check out our College Football Guide for tips to SEC schools, and amazing road trips around the country. Here are some Tennessee rivals as well
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.