Where To Park For Usc Football Games

Where to Park for USC Football Games: Your Ultimate Guide

Getting to a USC Trojans football game is super exciting, but finding a good parking spot can sometimes feel like trying to win the game itself! Don’t worry, though. This guide is here to help you navigate all the parking options around the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum, making your game day experience smooth and fun. We will explore all the best places to park for a USC game, whether you want something close and convenient or a spot that’s a bit more budget-friendly. So, let’s get ready to find the perfect place to park and cheer on the Trojans!

Official USC Parking Lots

USC provides several official parking lots that are close to the stadium. These are generally the most convenient, but they also tend to be the most popular and can fill up fast. It’s a good idea to plan ahead and know your options.

Exposition Park Lots

These lots are located right next to the Coliseum in Exposition Park. Parking here puts you just a short walk from the stadium gates. The specific lots include:

• Lot 1: This is the closest lot and usually the first to fill. It’s a prime spot for tailgating if you get there early enough.
• Lot 2: Another great option that offers easy access to the stadium. Like Lot 1, it’s very popular.
• Lot 3: This lot is a bit further away, but still a comfortable walk. It’s often a good choice if Lots 1 and 2 are full.

Tips for Exposition Park Lots:

• Arrive Early: The earlier you arrive, the better your chances of snagging a spot. Lots can open 4-6 hours prior to kickoff, so check the specific time for your game.
• Purchase in Advance: If possible, purchase parking passes online through the USC Athletics website before game day. This will secure your spot and can save you time.
• Traffic: Expect heavy traffic around Exposition Park. Be patient and allow plenty of time to enter the lots.

USC Campus Parking

Parking is also available on the USC campus, which is a slightly longer walk to the stadium. However, these lots might be a bit easier to get into and can sometimes be less expensive than the Exposition Park lots. The main campus parking structures include:

• McCarthy Structure: Located near the center of campus, this is a large structure that usually has good availability. Expect a 15-20 minute walk to the Coliseum.
• Grand Avenue Structure: Another large parking structure, situated on the east side of campus. It is also about a 15-20 minute walk to the stadium.
• Figueroa Street Structure: Slightly further south on campus, this can be a good option for those willing to walk a bit more.

Tips for USC Campus Parking:

• Shuttle Service: USC sometimes provides a shuttle service from certain campus parking locations to the Coliseum. Check the USC website to see if this is available on game day.
• Walking Path: Be aware of the walking path from the parking structures to the Coliseum. It can be busy, so stay alert.
• Payment Options: Be prepared to pay by credit card, as some parking structures might not accept cash.

Alternative Parking Options Near the Coliseum

If the official lots are full or you’re looking for something different, there are other great spots nearby.

Street Parking

Finding free street parking near the Coliseum can be a bit of a challenge, but it’s not impossible. However, be prepared to walk a longer distance and make sure you pay attention to all parking signs and regulations to avoid tickets. Here’s what you should know:

• Metered Parking: Many streets near the Coliseum have metered parking. Make sure you pay the meter and know the time limits. Meters are often enforced on weekends.
• Residential Areas: Look for residential streets a bit further away from the stadium where parking might be free. Be very respectful of the neighborhood and don’t block driveways or park illegally.
• Time Restrictions: Pay close attention to parking signs to avoid getting a parking ticket. Restrictions can vary by street and time of day.

Third-Party Parking Lots and Garages

Several private parking lots and garages are in the area that offer parking for USC games. These can be great if you want a guaranteed spot and don’t mind paying a little extra. Here are some to look for:

• Lots on Figueroa Street: Many private lots and garages along Figueroa Street, south of the Coliseum, offer game day parking.
• Lots near Jefferson Boulevard: A few private lots can also be found closer to Jefferson Boulevard, a short distance away from the stadium.
• Parking Apps: Use parking apps like SpotHero or ParkWhiz to find and reserve parking spots near the Coliseum. You can often see prices and reviews of each location in advance.

Tips for Third-Party Lots:

• Compare Prices: Prices can vary a lot between different third-party lots. Compare prices and read reviews before booking.
• Reserve in Advance: It’s a good idea to reserve a spot in advance to avoid any stress on game day.
• Distance: Check how far the parking lot is from the Coliseum to make sure you’re okay with the walking distance.

Tailgating: Where Can You Set Up?

Tailgating is a big part of the USC football experience. If you want to tailgate, you’ll need to plan your parking spot carefully. Here are some options:

Official Tailgate Areas

The best areas for tailgating are in the official Exposition Park lots, especially Lot 1. These areas usually have the most lively atmosphere.

• Lot 1: This is the prime tailgating spot. However, spaces fill up incredibly fast, so get there very early.
• Lot 2 and 3: These lots also allow tailgating, but the atmosphere might be a little calmer than Lot 1.

Tips for Official Tailgate Areas:

• Early Arrival: To get a spot that allows for tailgating, you must arrive hours before kickoff.
• Tailgating Rules: Make sure you’re aware of the tailgating rules for the specific parking lot, which are usually posted on the USC Athletics website.
• Respect Others: Be respectful of other tailgaters. Keep your area clean, and be mindful of noise levels.

Other Tailgating Options

If you miss out on the official lots, you can still find ways to enjoy the tailgating experience.

• Parks Near the Coliseum: Some parks and green spaces near the Coliseum allow for small gatherings and picnics, but they don’t permit tailgating with open flames or large set-ups.
• Private Tailgate Services: Some private companies offer organized tailgating events near the stadium. This can be a good alternative if you don’t want to set up everything yourself.

Transportation Alternatives

If you want to skip the hassle of parking altogether, here are some alternatives to consider.

Public Transportation

The Metro Rail is a great option for getting to the Coliseum. The Expo Line has a stop near the stadium (Expo Park/USC station), which is a short walk away. This helps avoid traffic and parking problems.

• Expo Line: Take the Expo Line to the Expo Park/USC station. It’s the most convenient option.
• Bus Routes: Several bus routes serve the area around the Coliseum. Check the Metro website to see if there is a direct route from where you are.

Tips for Public Transportation:

• Plan Ahead: Check the Metro website for schedules and plan your journey.
• Purchase Tickets: Buy your TAP card and add money in advance to avoid delays.
• Crowds: Expect crowds, especially after the game. Be patient and allow extra time.

Ride-Sharing Services

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are popular ways to get to the Coliseum.

• Designated Drop-Off/Pick-Up Areas: Uber and Lyft usually have designated pick-up and drop-off locations around the Coliseum. Make sure you know where they are.
• Surge Pricing: Expect surge pricing on game days. Prices can be higher due to increased demand.
• Traffic: Traffic can be heavy before and after the game. Be prepared for delays.

Biking and Walking

If you live close to the Coliseum, consider biking or walking. This is a great way to avoid traffic and parking issues. The streets near the stadium have sidewalks and bike paths.

• Bike Racks: You can find bike racks around the Coliseum and USC campus.
• Walking Distance: If you live within a 2-3 mile radius, consider walking for some exercise.

Parking Tips for a Smooth Game Day

Let’s summarize some important tips for parking at USC football games:

• Plan Ahead: Decide where you want to park before game day. Look at maps and explore the best choices, reserve a spot if needed.
• Arrive Early: The earlier you get there, the better the parking. This is particularly true if you want to tailgate.
• Consider All Options: Don’t just focus on the closest parking lots. Think about parking on campus, third-party lots or even public transport.
• Be Prepared for Traffic: No matter where you park, you’ll be likely to encounter traffic. Plan for extra time.
• Have a Backup Plan: Have a second or third choice in mind, in case your first choice isn’t available.
• Pay Attention to Signs: Pay attention to all parking signs and regulations to avoid tickets.
• Be Patient and Polite: Game day can be hectic. Be patient with other drivers and pedestrians. Be polite and remember we are all here for the love of the Trojans.

By planning ahead and knowing your parking options, you can get to the USC games and enjoy your time at the Coliseum cheering on the Trojans!