Michigan Stadium, known as The Big House, is the largest stadium in the Western Hemisphere with a capacity of 107,601. When those 107,000 fans roar in unison, the ground shakes. The bowl design creates an acoustic experience unlike any other venue in college football. This guide covers everything you need for gameday in Ann Arbor.
Why It's Called The Big House
The nickname is straightforward: it's simply enormous. Built in 1927 with an original capacity of 72,000, the stadium has been expanded multiple times. The bowl design means you're surrounded by humanity on all sides—an unforgettable sensory experience.
Despite its size, sight lines are excellent throughout. The original architect designed the stadium to sit below ground level, keeping fans close to the action even in the upper rows.
Best Seats in The Big House
Student Section (1-25)
The southeast corner holds 20,000+ students who create the loudest, most intense atmosphere. They never sit. They barely stop cheering. Visitors can't access this section, but sitting nearby captures the energy.
Mid-Bowl (Rows 30-50)
The sweet spot for viewing. You're high enough to see plays develop but close enough to feel connected. Sections 10-15 (west side) have the best afternoon sun positioning.
Lower Bowl (Rows 1-20)
Close to the action but flat sightlines can obscure field views when players are on the far side. Great for feeling the intensity; less ideal for actually watching the game.
End Zones
The most affordable seats with narrower views. You'll see touchdowns up close on one end but struggle to see the other. Good budget option: $50-100 for most games.
The Golf Course: Michigan's Tailgate Tradition
The University of Michigan Golf Course adjacent to the stadium becomes the epicenter of tailgating. RVs and tents cover the fairways in a sea of maize and blue.
- Opens at 6am on gameday (earlier for night games)
- $40-60 parking fee includes tailgating access
- Walking distance to the stadium (5-10 minutes)
- Post-game access for celebrations
What to Bring
- Canopy tent (Michigan fall weather is unpredictable)
- Grill and cooler
- Folding chairs and table
- Cornhole and football for pregame games
Ann Arbor Food Scene
- Zingerman's Deli: Famous nationally, essential for visitors
- Blimpy Burger: "Cheaper Than Food" - cash only, local legend
- Pizza House: Deep dish, open late
- The Brown Jug: Historic bar on South University
Parking Options
Golf Course Lot
The premium option. $40-60 depending on game. Arrive by 8am for noon games. Tailgating permitted and encouraged.
Pioneer High School
Free parking with shuttle service to stadium. About 1.5 miles away. Great for families who want to skip the tailgate scene.
Downtown Structures
Park downtown ($15-25) and walk 20-25 minutes. You'll pass through campus and can grab food on the way. Post-game, you're already in the bar district.
Gameday Traditions
- "The Victors": The greatest fight song in college football, played constantly
- The Banner: Team touches "Go Blue" banner before entering field
- M Club banner: Players run under the block M flag
- Mr. Brightside: The Killers' song has become an unofficial anthem
- Wave to Mott: Fourth quarter wave to children at C.S. Mott Children's Hospital watching from across the street
Weather Preparation
Michigan fall weather is notoriously unpredictable:
- September: Often warm (65-75°F), but storms possible
- October: Peak fall colors, temperatures vary widely (45-65°F)
- November: Cold (30-45°F). Layers essential. Snow possible.
Key advice: Always bring layers. Mornings can start at 40°F and reach 70°F by afternoon, or vice versa.
Quick Reference: The Big House
- Address: 1201 S Main St, Ann Arbor, MI 48104
- Capacity: 107,601 (largest in Western Hemisphere)
- Gates open: 2 hours before kickoff
- Must visit: Golf Course tailgate, Zingerman's
- Signature moment: Wave to Mott (4th quarter)