Parking for OSU football games can be found in various locations, including designated campus parking garages and lots, as well as private off-campus options, depending on availability and game day permits.
Game day at Ohio State is electric, but finding a spot can feel like a challenge. Planning ahead is essential so you can focus on cheering on the Buckeyes, not circling for parking. This article helps with your planning for ‘where to park for osu football games’.
Navigating the sea of cars before kickoff requires some knowledge. Knowing your options, both on and off-campus, can save you time and frustration. Let’s explore the best options to ensure a smooth experience.
Where to Park for OSU Football Games
Heading to an Ohio State Buckeyes game at the Horseshoe is an amazing experience, but finding the perfect parking spot can feel like trying to win the lottery. Don’t worry, we’ve got your back! This guide will walk you through all the parking options, from the easiest to the most budget-friendly, so you can focus on cheering on the Buckeyes. We’ll cover everything from official university lots to nearby garages and even some secret spots that locals use.
Official Ohio State Parking Options
Ohio State University provides a number of parking areas, but they get snapped up quickly. Knowing your options ahead of time is key. These lots are the closest to the stadium, which is a big plus but also means they cost a bit more.
Permit Parking
The most direct way to park near the stadium is through permit parking. These spaces are reserved for people who have purchased a parking pass, usually well in advance of the season. These permits can cost a pretty penny, but if you get one it eliminates a ton of parking stress. Keep these points in your mind:
- Who gets these? Primarily, season ticket holders and donors get first dibs.
- How to get them? You apply through the Ohio State Athletic Department or Ticket Office. It is super competitive!
- Where are they? These lots are located around the stadium, offering prime locations like the lots around St. John Arena, the Schottenstein Center, and Lane Avenue.
- Why is it good? Very close proximity to the stadium, and it’s guaranteed parking.
Day-of-Game Public Parking
If you don’t have a permit, don’t give up hope! The university does offer a limited number of parking spots for sale on game day. These sell out very fast, so planning is super important. Here are the details:
- Location: Usually, these spots are found a bit further from the stadium, such as the lots near the Olentangy River or further east along Lane Avenue.
- Cost: Generally more expensive than other parking areas outside campus. Expect prices to increase the closer you are to the stadium and on bigger game days.
- How to snag a spot: Arrive extremely early; many people show up hours before the game just to get parking. Check the Ohio State Athletics website beforehand for maps and prices because things can change.
Shuttle Services
One great part of using the more distant official lots is that Ohio State usually offers a shuttle service from these lots to the stadium. This can be a real life saver because it keeps you from walking too much before the game. Key things about shuttle services are:
- Where do they go? Shuttles run from outer parking lots to locations near the stadium.
- When do they run? Usually, shuttles start a few hours before the game and run for some time after the game finishes.
- Is it free? Most of the time, the shuttle service is included in the cost of the day-of-game parking.
Off-Campus Parking: Garages and Lots
If the official lots fill up or are out of your price range, don’t panic! Many garages and lots surrounding the campus offer parking for OSU games. They can often be cheaper and offer a more relaxed atmosphere than the bustling official lots. Here are some alternatives to explore:
Nearby Parking Garages
Columbus has a number of parking garages around the Ohio State campus, offering convenient parking within a short walk or shuttle ride to the stadium. These garages are usually pretty safe, and they give you a place to be out of the weather.
- Where to look: Check out garages along High Street, near Lane Avenue, and around the University District.
- Price: Costs vary; expect to pay more the closer you get to the stadium. Prices can range from $20 to $50 depending on the location and the game.
- Benefits: Garages usually have elevators, and they provide better protection from the weather. Some of these are pre-bookable online.
Privately-Owned Lots
Many private owners near the campus turn their properties into parking lots on game days. These can be a real hidden treasure for anyone looking for lower priced parking options with a little bit of a walk. Here are some quick points:
- Location: Look along side streets and neighborhoods near the campus and especially north of the stadium. You will often find them in people’s yards or empty spaces between buildings.
- Price: Usually less expensive than official lots. But keep in mind that some owners increase prices closer to game time, especially if the game is a big event.
- Pros: You often get a more local feel, and sometimes you will find people selling food and beverages close by.
Hotel Parking
If you are staying in a hotel near campus, check if they offer parking and shuttle services to the game. This is a great way to avoid the hassle of finding parking, especially if you have traveled to Columbus from out of town. Things to keep in mind about hotel parking:
- Benefits: Many hotels offer parking packages for game day that include free shuttles and breakfast.
- How to book: Be sure to book your hotel room and parking in advance. Call the hotel to ask about their parking policies for game days.
Transportation Alternatives
Parking is not the only way to get to the stadium. There are several ways you can skip the parking search altogether and arrive ready to cheer. Consider these options.
CABS Bus Service
The Central Ohio Transit Authority (COTA) offers bus service that can take you to campus. This is a good option if you are near a bus route, and it can be very cheap compared to parking.
- How it works: Check the COTA website for route and schedule information. It might require some walking, but the price is usually less than parking.
- Benefits: You don’t have to worry about navigating the busy streets or finding parking, plus it is an environmentally friendly choice.
Rideshares and Taxis
Using a rideshare service like Uber or Lyft is a super simple way to get to the game. You can request a ride whenever you’re ready, and it can drop you off near the stadium.
- How it works: Open the app and ask for a ride to a location near the stadium.
- Things to remember: Surge pricing can dramatically increase fares on game days, especially right before and after the game. Also, pick-up and drop-off locations might be a bit away from the stadium due to the crowds.
Biking
If the weather permits and you are close enough to campus, consider biking. Ohio State has bike racks throughout campus, and the routes to the stadium are pretty bike-friendly. Here are some tips:
- Where to park your bike: Use the designated bike racks near the stadium.
- Things to consider: Remember to bring your own bike lock. Also, watch out for lots of pedestrians before and after the game.
Tips for Game Day Parking
Parking for an OSU game is a bit of an art. Here are some tips and tricks that will make the day less stressful:
- Arrive Early: This tip is the number one, can’t-miss tip. The earlier you arrive, the better your chances of getting parking in your desired location.
- Pre-book Parking: Some garages and private lots allow you to reserve parking online. Do this whenever possible to avoid problems on game day.
- Check for Road Closures: Road closures are common before and after the game. Check the Ohio State Athletics website or listen to local traffic reports to avoid detours.
- Bring Cash: Some private lots may not accept credit cards. Bring some cash for easy and fast transactions.
- Have a Backup Plan: Be ready to change plans if your preferred parking area is full. Always have a backup option in your mind!
- Be Patient: Traffic is crazy on game days. Plan for delays and stay positive and patient!
Accessible Parking
If you require accessible parking, Ohio State has options for you. It’s important to arrive early, and have all necessary paperwork prepared.
- Where is it located: Accessible parking is available in various locations around the stadium but be sure to check on locations with Ohio State in advance because locations can sometimes change.
- What do you need: You will need to display a valid disability parking permit.
- How to prepare: Confirm locations and availability with the Ohio State Athletics Department or through their website because things can change.
Parking Map Resources
Here are some important links to help you see parking locations and other important information.
- Ohio State Athletics Website: The official athletics website usually has up-to-date information on parking, including maps, pricing, and shuttle routes.
- Campus Map: Check the Ohio State campus map to see the location of parking lots, garages, and bike racks.
- Parking Apps: Use a parking app to find parking in real time, read user reviews and see prices.
Finding parking for an Ohio State football game can seem a bit tricky at first, but with some planning and research, it can be super simple. Whether you’re aiming for the closest spot or saving a bit of money with a longer walk, you now have the information needed to make the best choice for you. Now, go on, enjoy the game and Go Bucks!
Park and Ride – OSU Football Game Day Parking 2021
Final Thoughts
Finding where to park for osu football games requires planning. Campus garages, like the Lane Avenue Garage, offer convenient spots. They fill quickly, so arrive early to grab a space.
Alternatively, consider off-campus parking with shuttle services. These options can be less expensive but might require a slightly longer walk. Pre-booking is often available to guarantee a spot.
Careful consideration of these suggestions can lead to a stress free experience when choosing where to park for osu football games.
