Where To Park For Ku Basketball Games

Parking for KU basketball games is available in various lots around Allen Fieldhouse, including parking garages and surface lots, with specific locations and availability varying by game day.

Navigating game day crowds can be tricky, especially when trying to find parking. Planning ahead becomes essential when you are going to the game. Knowing where to park for KU basketball games is half the battle won.

Finding the best spot saves time and reduces stress. This guide will help you navigate parking options. We will cover everything from garages to surface lots.

Where to Park for KU Basketball Games

Getting ready to cheer on the Jayhawks at Allen Fieldhouse? That’s awesome! But before you can enjoy the game, you need to figure out where to park. Finding the perfect parking spot can sometimes feel like a game in itself, but don’t worry, we’re here to help. This guide breaks down all your parking options, so you can arrive stress-free and ready to yell “Rock Chalk!”

Understanding the Parking Situation at KU

The University of Kansas campus, especially around Allen Fieldhouse, gets really busy on game days. It’s like a big party, and everyone wants to be there! Because so many people are coming, parking can fill up quickly. It’s important to plan ahead and know your choices. Think about it: thousands of fans all heading to the same place at the same time— that means you need a game plan! The closer you park to the fieldhouse, the more expensive it’s likely to be. Some areas are reserved for people with special parking passes. Other areas are open to the public, but you have to get there early to snag a spot. Let’s explore all the options together, so you can choose what works best for you.

On-Campus Parking Options

KU offers a range of parking spots right on campus. These are the closest to the action, but also the most popular, so plan to arrive well before tip-off.

The Allen Fieldhouse Parking Garage

The parking garage right next to Allen Fieldhouse is the most convenient spot for many fans. It’s super close to the entrance and you won’t have to walk far at all. The downside is that it gets very, very full. The closer you get to game day, expect to see the garage packed with cars. If you are able to secure a parking spot in Allen Fieldhouse Parking Garage, it is probably the most convenient parking option on the campus but they are usually quickly grabbed by early bird fans.

Pros: Super close to the fieldhouse, easy access, and avoids most of the longer walks.
Cons: Fills up super fast, can be more expensive, and exiting after the game can be slow.

Other University Parking Lots

Besides the main garage, there are other parking lots scattered around the campus that KU makes available on game days. These areas might be a short walk away from Allen Fieldhouse but are usually much more accessible than the garage. The university offers a shuttle service from certain lots, which can be convenient. Checking the KU website or game day information is a good idea because the locations of the lots and the routes of the shuttles might be different for each game. These lots usually fill up after the Allen Fieldhouse garage does but they are still very popular, so it is best to arrive early to get the best location for your group.

Pros: More affordable than the garage, often with shuttle options, and still within a reasonable walking distance to the fieldhouse.
Cons: Requires a bit of a walk, shuttle service can be crowded, and fills up eventually.

Parking Permits & Reserved Parking

Some parking spots on campus are reserved for fans who hold special parking permits. These permits are usually for season ticket holders or special donors. If you aren’t in that group, you won’t be able to use these spaces. It’s always a good idea to double-check the signage when you pull into a lot, so you don’t get towed! These spots are the best parking locations because they are closest to the stadium, however they are not open to the general public.

Pros: Guaranteed spots close to the action and premium convenience.
Cons: Not accessible to the general public, requires purchase of specific permits or eligibility based on contribution to the athletic department.

To find more information about the game day parking rules and restrictions, it is always better to check with the KU athletics website because the rules might be different for different matches.

Off-Campus Parking Options

If on-campus parking is full or not your jam, don’t worry! There are other options in Lawrence, although they’ll usually require a bit more walking or a shuttle ride.

Downtown Lawrence Parking Garages and Lots

Downtown Lawrence offers several parking garages and surface lots. These are a bit further away from Allen Fieldhouse, but they are usually cheaper than the on-campus options. You can walk or take a shuttle or rideshare service from downtown, but remember to add the walk time or shuttle time to your plans. The downtown options are popular with those who prefer to enjoy the Lawrence atmosphere and have a dinner before the match at the various restaurants.

Pros: Generally cheaper than on-campus parking, and lots of restaurants to choose from.
Cons: Requires a longer walk or shuttle, and it can be a long walk after the game when you are already tired.

Residential Street Parking (with caution)

Some fans might try parking on residential streets around the campus. However, it is important to remember some of those areas have restricted parking rules and signs that are important to follow. If you park in restricted areas, you could end up getting a parking ticket or even getting towed, which is the last thing you want on game day! If you are not familiar with the area, then avoid residential street parking to prevent any inconveniences.

Pros: Possibly free, if you are able to find it.
Cons: Might be difficult to find a legal spot and might require a very long walk, risks of tickets or towing.

Always be sure to check all the street signs for any restrictions before leaving your car. The local authorities are usually strict about any violation of parking rules in the residential areas on the match days.

Shuttle Services

The university and sometimes even third parties provide shuttle services from different off campus locations to the Allen Fieldhouse. These shuttle services can be a convenient way to get to the match, especially if you park farther away.

Pros: Eases the need to walk a long way, and is convenient for the long distances.
Cons: Might be crowded, sometimes involves a waiting time.

Check the KU Athletics website or local resources for the shuttle schedules and pick-up locations before you leave for the match. Always keep time in your hand for the shuttle delays and the queues for getting into the bus.

Accessible Parking

For fans who need accessible parking, there are reserved spots near Allen Fieldhouse. You’ll need to have a valid accessible parking permit displayed in your car. These spots are allocated on a first-come, first-served basis, so it’s crucial to arrive early. There are also some designated drop off points close to the stadium, which are designed to help fans with physical limitations. Check the KU website for all of the options for the disabled parking.

Pros: Designated locations with closer proximity to the stadium, accommodating accessibility needs.
Cons: Limited number of spots, requires a permit.

Tips for a Smooth Parking Experience

Here are some extra tips to help make your parking experience easy and problem free:

Arrive Early: This is the golden rule of parking at KU games. The earlier you arrive, the more options you’ll have.
Have a Backup Plan: Don’t put all your eggs in one basket, meaning plan for a backup option and know the alternative parking locations.
Check KU Athletics Website: Always check the official KU Athletics website for any last-minute updates about parking on gamedays.
Use a Parking App: Some mobile apps show real-time parking availability and that can be helpful for many.
Be Patient: After the game, getting out of the parking lots can take time. Be patient and don’t rush.
Bring Cash: Some lots might accept only cash. So, if you are going for the on-campus parking lots, it is a good idea to have some cash.
Car pool if possible: Car pooling can be a good idea to decrease the traffic congestion.

Things to Avoid

Some things that you have to keep in your mind so that you can avoid any hassles.

Parking in restricted areas: Always keep in mind not to park in the areas that are reserved for specific groups.
Parking illegally: Don’t park on sidewalks, in fire lanes, or any other illegal place.
Ignoring signs: Always check the parking signs and follow the rules because the parking rules are strictly followed by the local authorities on game days.
Blocking traffic: Never block any traffic when parking or when waiting to find a parking spot.

Finding the right parking spot for a KU basketball game doesn’t have to be stressful. By knowing your options and planning ahead, you can get to Allen Fieldhouse with ease and focus on what really matters—cheering on the Jayhawks! Remember to be patient and plan for any delays. With a little planning, you can make your gameday experience smooth and fun from start to finish. Rock Chalk!

Big Jay with the KU Jayhawks knows where to find the best #storagesolutions for all of his gear 📦

Final Thoughts

For convenient options, consider parking garages near Allen Fieldhouse. Many garages offer hourly rates. Arrive early for best availability, especially for popular games.

University lots are another possibility, often requiring permits. Check KU Athletics website for specific game-day parking guidelines. Street parking can be limited.

Careful planning is essential. Knowing where to park for KU basketball games will help your visit. Check updated information before heading to the arena. This will save time and stress.