For ASU football games, parking options include the Packard Drive Parking Structure, the Fulton Center Garage, and various surface lots near the stadium, depending on availability and permits.
Gameday at ASU is electric, but figuring out where to park for an ASU football game can be tricky. Let’s be honest, navigating the campus and surrounding areas can feel overwhelming with all the excited fans.
Knowing your parking choices ahead of time is key to a smooth experience, allowing you to focus on the fun. This short guide will help you explore the parking options, so you can get to the game ready to cheer on the Sun Devils.
Where to Park for ASU Football Game
Getting ready to cheer on the Sun Devils? That’s awesome! But before you get to the stadium, you need to figure out where to park. Parking for an ASU football game can sometimes feel like a tricky puzzle, but don’t worry, we’re here to help! We’ll walk you through all the best parking options so you can get to the game easily and on time.
On-Campus Parking Options
Arizona State University offers several parking garages and lots right on campus. These are super convenient since they’re close to the stadium. However, they can fill up quickly, so arriving early is definitely a good idea.
Parking Garages
These are multi-level structures where you can park your car. They usually offer covered parking, which can be a lifesaver during those hot Arizona days.
- Packard Drive Garage: This garage is located on the east side of campus near Rural Road and Packard Drive. It’s a popular spot, so plan to get there early.
- University Dr. Garage: This one is close to University Drive and has good access to the south side of the stadium.
- Tyler St. Garage: If you are coming from the west side of campus, this option on Tyler Street could be beneficial.
Surface Lots
Surface lots are open parking areas. They might be a bit further from the stadium, but often offer more spaces. Some popular surface lots are:
- Lot 59: Located near the intersection of Rural and Apache, this lot is a big one, but can fill up.
- Lot 3: You can find this lot north of the stadium, which is a good choice if you are coming from that direction.
- Lot 10: This lot provides parking off of Veteran’s Way.
Important Tip: Parking on campus usually requires a parking permit. You can purchase these in advance online through the ASU Parking and Transit Services website. Sometimes, you might be able to purchase a day pass on game day, but it is not always guaranteed. Check the official ASU website for the most up-to-date information before your game day arrival.
Off-Campus Parking Alternatives
If on-campus parking is full or if you are looking for more budget-friendly options, there are plenty of places to park off-campus. Let’s take a look at some of them:
Downtown Tempe Parking
Downtown Tempe is located just a short walk or light rail ride from the stadium. There are a number of parking garages and surface lots you can use. Be aware that this area can get quite busy on game days, so it’s still good to arrive early.
- City of Tempe Parking Garages: The city has public parking garages throughout downtown. These are generally a very good place to park for the game, and the walk to the stadium is part of the game day experience.
- Private Parking Lots: There are many private lots in the area. These can be more expensive than city garages, but they are often very close to the stadium and convenient.
Park-and-Ride Options
One excellent option is to use the Valley Metro Light Rail. You can park your car at a park-and-ride location and then take the light rail directly to the stadium area. This can help you to avoid traffic congestion and the headache of trying to find close-in parking. The light rail is a convenient and affordable choice. These locations are often further out, but are directly connected to the game day fun through public transportation.
Some of the good options for park and ride are:
- Sycamore/Main Street Station: Located near Mesa and Sycamore, this is one of the stations which has a large parking lot for light rail users.
- Dorsey/Apache Blvd Station: Located closer to the university, this is an option on the west end of campus.
- Priest/Washington Station: This location allows the users to take the light rail directly to the university and the stadium.
Remember to check the Valley Metro website for a list of all stations, fares, and current schedules.
Residential Street Parking
It is also possible to find some street parking in the residential areas surrounding the stadium. However, this can be quite risky. Many of these streets have permit parking only, and you might receive a ticket or be towed. Also, street parking is often a long walk to the stadium and is usually hard to come by on game days. If you consider this option, be sure to check for posted signs or regulations before you park.
Tips for a Smooth Parking Experience
Here are some additional tips to help make parking for an ASU game go smoothly:
Plan Ahead
Don’t wait until the last minute! Check the ASU website, the Valley Metro website, and other parking resources ahead of time to understand the best places to park.
Arrive Early
Parking spots fill up quickly, especially for popular games. The earlier you arrive, the better your chances of finding a spot close to the stadium. Give yourself plenty of time to find your parking location and walk to your seat. Arriving early allows you to tailgate with friends or take in the atmosphere of game day.
Use a Parking App
Many apps can help you find available parking spots or book a spot ahead of time. Consider these parking apps to help you navigate the parking scene. Some common apps are ParkWhiz and SpotHero.
Have a Backup Plan
It is best to have a secondary plan for parking, just in case your first choice is full. Know the location of another parking garage or light rail station in case your primary choice does not work out.
Carpool
Riding with friends or family is great way to reduce the number of cars and congestion in the area. This can also help to share the cost of parking.
Follow Directions
Be sure to follow the instructions from parking attendants and pay close attention to any posted signs. This will make it easier for everyone to find parking quickly and efficiently. This is especially true in campus parking locations.
Be Patient
Game day traffic can sometimes be frustrating. Stay patient and polite with other drivers and enjoy the game-day festivities. Take a deep breath and know that you’ll be watching football soon.
Accessible Parking
For those needing accessible parking, ASU provides options near the stadium. You will need to have a valid disability permit or license plate to park in these spots. These are in limited quantities, so it is still best to arrive early. Here are some good locations where you might find accessible parking:
- Packard Drive Garage: Provides accessible parking spots closer to the stadium.
- Lot 59: Has designated accessible spots within the lot.
Tailgating Considerations
Tailgating is a big part of the ASU football experience. If you are planning on tailgating, it is important to understand what parking locations allow tailgating. Certain lots on campus may be designated as tailgating zones, where it is okay to set up a grill or chairs. You should look for this information on the ASU website or look for on-site signage. Some rules about tailgating are:
- No glass containers
- No open fires
- Be mindful of others around you.
- Do not block roadways or other parking spots.
Always be sure to check for official university rules and regulations before you tailgate.
Payment Methods
The payment methods for parking can vary depending on location. Most ASU lots and garages accept credit or debit cards at the gate or through an online purchase. Off-campus parking options might accept cash or digital payment through a parking app. Be prepared with a couple of methods in case the location does not accept one of your payment methods.
So, now that you have a good idea of where you can park for the next ASU football game, get ready to cheer on the Sun Devils and have a great time! Remember to plan ahead, arrive early, and choose the best option that works for you and your game day crew. Enjoy the game!
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Final Thoughts
For convenient access, consider parking garages like the Fulton Center or structures near Tempe Town Lake. These spots offer easy walks to the stadium. Arriving early is key to securing a good space.
Alternatively, utilize the free shuttle service available from various park-and-ride locations. These options often involve less traffic congestion. Plan your route beforehand.
To recap, finding the best spot for ‘where to park for asu football game’ involves balancing convenience with potential traffic. Remember that arriving early helps to guarantee your space. Choose parking that suits your needs.
