Parking for BC football games is available in various lots around Alumni Stadium, with options like the Beacon Street Garage and the Commonwealth Avenue Garage often being the closest choices.
Game day at Boston College is electric, but finding the best spot to park can feel like an extra challenge. Knowing where to park for BC football games can significantly impact your overall experience. This article helps you navigate the parking options, ensuring a smoother journey to cheer on the Eagles.
We break down the closest garages and lots that offer the best access to the stadium, giving you a quick guide for your visit. We also consider timing and any pre-booking methods for parking spots.
Where to Park for BC Football Games
Getting ready to cheer on the Boston College Eagles? Awesome! But before you can join the tailgate fun and roar with the crowd, you need to figure out one important thing: where to park! Finding the right parking spot near Alumni Stadium can feel like a game in itself. Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered with all the best parking tips and tricks to make your game day experience smooth and enjoyable. This guide will walk you through your options, helping you find the perfect parking spot that fits your needs, budget, and desired game day vibe.
Official Boston College Parking Lots
Boston College provides several parking lots specifically for game day. These are usually the closest to the stadium, making them super convenient. However, they also tend to be the most popular and can fill up quickly, so arriving early is always a smart move.
Types of Official Parking
BC offers a mix of reserved and general parking, and these parking options often have different prices and restrictions. Let’s break them down:
- Reserved Parking: These spots are typically for season ticket holders or those who purchase special parking passes in advance. If you have one, great! Head directly to your designated lot. If you are not sure which specific lot, you must consult the specific parking pass document. Reserved parking can be sold for an entire season, or individual games.
- General Parking: This is open to the public on a first-come, first-served basis. The pricing varies per game and depending on the lot. It is best to purchase online in advance of game day, as cash is not accepted at the lots.
Where are the Official Lots?
The main official parking areas usually include:
- Commonwealth Avenue Garage: A multi-level garage very close to the stadium. A very convenient option, and the only garage option.
- Beacon Street Garage: A multi-level garage also close to the stadium. This is a reserved parking garage.
- Main Campus Lots: Various lots dotted around the campus that become available for game day parking. These vary per game, and you must consult your parking pass for more specific details. These lots can be further from the stadium and have varying levels of availability and ease of access.
How to Get a Spot in Official Lots
Here’s the key to grabbing a spot in an official lot:
- Purchase in Advance: The best way to secure a spot in official lots is to purchase your parking pass online before game day. This guarantees your place, and usually avoids price increases on game day.
- Arrive Early: Even with a pre-purchased pass, showing up early is still beneficial. The more convenient lots will fill up quickly, even with reservations. Being early helps you pick a better space and helps avoid unnecessary delays getting into the parking lot.
- Check the BC Athletics Website: Always check the BC Athletics website for the most up-to-date information about game day parking. They will post maps, prices, and any special instructions.
Off-Campus Parking Options
Sometimes, the official BC lots fill up, or you might be looking for a more affordable option. This is where off-campus parking comes in! Several parking garages and lots can be found nearby, although you will need to factor in some extra walk time to get to Alumni Stadium. It is also important to note that some of the below parking lots may not be available during game day.
Nearby Parking Garages
- Street Parking: Street parking is available in some areas near Boston College, but can be very limited, and you must obey any posted parking regulations. Be very careful to check signs for resident-only restrictions, as well as street cleaning regulations. If your car is not parked correctly, it is very easy to get your car ticketed or towed.
- Newton Centre Parking: Newton Centre has some public parking lots, as well as a parking garage, but these are all not walking distance from Alumni stadium. You would need to take public transportation, or a rideshare/taxi, if you park there.
- Cleveland Circle: Another popular spot, Cleveland Circle has parking garages and lots, but it’s a longer walk (or a short public transportation ride) to the stadium.
Using Public Transportation
Another great alternative to parking is taking public transportation. The MBTA, or “T,” has several train and bus routes that can get you close to Boston College. This can be a very affordable and less stressful option, especially on busy game days.
The “T” Options
- Green Line “B” Branch: This is the most convenient train line that goes directly to Boston College. The stop is right on campus, near the stadium.
- Bus Routes: Several bus routes go to or near Boston College. Check the MBTA website or app for specific bus routes and schedules.
Tips for Using Public Transport
- Buy Your CharlieCard/Ticket in Advance: This will save time and make it easier to hop on the train or bus.
- Plan Your Trip Ahead: Check the schedules and plan your trip before you leave home to avoid any delays or confusion. The schedules might change due to game day crowds.
- Be Prepared for Crowds: Public transportation can get very crowded on game days, so be prepared to stand and maybe wait for the next train or bus.
Ride-Sharing Services
Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are also a solid choice for getting to and from the game. They are very convenient, especially if you are not sure of directions, or if you don’t have a car.
How They Work
Simply use the app on your phone to request a ride. You can get dropped off close to the stadium. After the game, you can request a pick up from the designated pick-up spots.
Ride-Sharing Tips
- Designated Pick-Up/Drop-Off: Make sure you check the Boston College Athletics website, or the BC game day event guide, for designated pick-up and drop-off spots, since many streets around the stadium may be restricted on game days.
- Be Prepared for Surge Pricing: Prices for ride-sharing services can be higher on game days due to the increased demand. Plan to order your ride a little earlier than you think you need to, and also factor in higher prices.
- Share a Ride: If you are with a group, sharing a ride can help you reduce the cost.
Tailgating and Parking
Tailgating is a big part of the BC football game day experience! If you are planning on tailgating, it’s important to pick a parking option that allows you to do so. Not all lots allow tailgating, so keep this in mind when selecting your parking spot.
Where Tailgating Is Allowed
Usually, tailgating is permitted in most general parking lots on campus, but it is a good idea to check the official BC website for specific guidelines, as there may be some specific restrictions.
Tailgating Rules
- Time Restrictions: Check the rules on how early you can start tailgating.
- Alcohol Policies: Be aware of any rules related to consuming alcoholic beverages.
- Clean Up After Yourself: Make sure you leave your tailgating area clean.
Accessibility Parking
Boston College is committed to providing accessible parking for all guests. If you require accessible parking, it’s important to plan ahead.
Where to Find Accessible Parking
Accessible parking spots are available in most official BC parking lots. You will need to display a valid handicap parking permit to use those spots.
Steps to Take
- Purchase a Parking Pass in Advance: Like all official parking, purchase your pass in advance.
- Arrive Early: Accessibility spots are limited, so arriving early is best.
- Contact BC Athletics: If you have any specific needs or questions, contact the BC Athletics department well in advance of game day.
Tips For A Smoother Parking Experience
Here are some extra tips to help make your parking experience easier:
- Download the BC Athletics App: The BC Athletics App often has maps, parking information, and other helpful details for game day.
- Follow BC Athletics on Social Media: Check their social media pages for any parking updates, road closures, or traffic issues.
- Have a Backup Plan: It’s always smart to have a backup plan in case your first parking choice isn’t available.
- Check Traffic Conditions: Look at traffic reports before you leave and plan your route accordingly.
- Wear Comfortable Shoes: You might be doing a lot of walking, so wear comfortable shoes.
- Bring Cash (Sometimes): While most official lots take cards, some off-campus lots may require cash payments.
Reviewing Your Options: A Summary
To help you make a decision, here’s a quick recap of your parking options:
| Parking Option | Pros | Cons | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Official BC Parking Lots | Close to stadium, convenient, some tailgating options | Can fill up fast, more expensive, requires early arrival or advance purchase | Fans who want convenience and are willing to plan ahead. |
| Off-Campus Parking Garages/Lots | More affordable, more parking availability | Farther walk to the stadium, requires planning | Budget-conscious fans who don’t mind a walk. |
| Public Transportation | Affordable, less stress, avoids traffic | Can be crowded, may involve waiting | Fans who don’t want to drive or park. |
| Ride-Sharing Services | Convenient, no driving or parking required | More expensive than public transport, surge pricing issues, need to follow pick up/drop off instructions. | Fans who don’t want to drive but are willing to pay a premium. |
Choosing where to park for a BC football game is all about finding the best balance of convenience, cost, and your own personal preferences. Whether you decide to go with an official BC lot, take public transportation, or use a ride-sharing service, a little planning can make your experience much smoother and more enjoyable. Have a great time at the game!
BC Football Tour 2021
Final Thoughts
For BC football games, options include the Commonwealth Garage, Beacon Street Garage, and various surface lots around campus. Consider arriving early, as these spots fill up quickly. You can also use public transport, which might be a better way to avoid game day traffic.
Finding the best place for parking is key to a good game day. Plan ahead and review the map before you go. Knowing where to park for bc football games will make the whole experience more enjoyable.
