For UVA football games, parking options include the Emmet/Ivy Garage, University Hall parking lots, and designated grass lots.
Game day at UVA is thrilling, but figuring out where to park can be a challenge. Getting to the stadium without the stress of parking is a big deal for any fan. Knowing your options will significantly improve your game day experience. We want to help fans decide where to park for UVA football games with ease.
Where to Park for UVA Football Games: Your Complete Guide
Okay, so you’re heading to Scott Stadium to cheer on the Virginia Cavaliers! That’s awesome! But before you get there, you need to figure out one super important thing: where to park. Game day at UVA can get really busy, and finding a good parking spot can be tricky if you don’t have a plan. Don’t worry though, this guide is here to help! We’ll explore all your parking options, from the super close spots to the places a little further away, and everything in between. We’ll also give you some tips to make your game day parking experience smooth and easy. Let’s dive in and find the perfect parking spot for your next UVA football adventure!
On-Campus Parking Options
Let’s start with parking right on the University of Virginia campus. These spots are the closest to the stadium, making them super convenient. However, they are also the most popular, and some require special permits. So let’s look at what options exist, so you’ll be well-prepared on game day.
Reserved Parking Lots
Many of the parking lots closest to Scott Stadium are reserved for those with special permits. These permits are often given to UVA Athletic donors, season ticket holders, and faculty and staff. If you fall into one of these categories, be sure you know which lot you’re assigned to and have your parking pass ready to go when you approach the lot. These lots will usually have a specific name or number associated with your permit. Here are some of the most commonly used reserved lots:
- John Paul Jones Arena (JPJ) Lots: These lots are very close to the stadium and are generally the first to fill. If you have a permit for this area, try to arrive early to get a good spot.
- University Hall (U-Hall) Lots: These parking areas are adjacent to the old U-Hall building. While slightly further from Scott Stadium than JPJ, they are still very convenient.
- Darden School of Business Lots: These lots are usually reserved for staff and faculty or those with special passes, and they offer convenient access to the stadium area.
- Parking Garages A, B, & C: These multi-level garages offer covered parking, and are usually reserved for special permit holders.
Important Note: Reserved lots are closely monitored on game days. Be sure you have the correct permit displayed, or you could receive a ticket or even be towed. Make sure you double-check the details on your permit and the directions associated with it.
General Admission On-Campus Parking
Don’t have a special parking permit? Don’t worry, there are still some on-campus options for you, though they will require a bit more walking. These spots are first-come, first-served, and they fill up quickly. So, if you want to park on campus without a permit, you’ll need to arrive very early. Here are some areas to check out:
- Emmet Street Garage: This garage is a little further from the stadium, but it’s still within a reasonable walking distance. It’s often a good option for those without permits because it has a larger capacity.
- Copeley Road Area: This area can have some open parking, but it tends to be a bit more of a walk. You might want to consider this area if the other more convenient lots fill up.
Off-Campus Parking Options
If you’re not able to find parking on campus, don’t panic. There are still plenty of places to park nearby. These off-campus options may be a little further from Scott Stadium, but they often come with some advantages, like potentially lower costs. Let’s check them out:
Private Lots and Garages
Businesses and private property owners often open up their parking lots for game day. These lots can be found in the areas surrounding UVA, and some of them may offer shuttle services to the stadium. Here’s what you should know:
- Look for signs: Keep an eye out for signs saying “Game Day Parking.” They are often posted on the main roads leading to the stadium.
- Be prepared for varying prices: Prices can differ quite a bit, depending on how close the lot is to the stadium and what services they provide.
- Cash is often king: Many of these private lots prefer cash, so make sure you have some on hand.
Public Parking Garages and Lots
The city of Charlottesville also has some public parking options that you can utilize. While these are usually further from Scott Stadium, they tend to be more affordable than private lots, and often will have multiple spaces available compared to the close on campus lots. Here’s what you need to consider:
- Downtown Charlottesville Garages: Garages such as Market Street Garage and Water Street Garage often offer game day parking. These are a bit of a walk, or you may want to use a ride-sharing service after parking, but they are viable options.
- Check availability: As the game time gets closer, these can fill up as well. Double-check the garages before heading there on game day.
- Consider a ride share: From a downtown garage, it’s easy to grab a ride-sharing service or a taxi to get you closer to Scott Stadium.
Park and Ride Locations
For a more budget-friendly approach, especially if you don’t mind a slightly longer commute to the stadium, consider park-and-ride options. This involves parking at a more distant location and utilizing shuttles to reach Scott Stadium. This is often a great choice for larger groups.
- Shuttle Services: Look for designated park-and-ride locations that offer shuttle bus service to the stadium. These services are often coordinated by the University or the local transportation authority.
- Check schedules: It’s a good idea to check the schedule for shuttles beforehand, so you know when you should arrive to make your way to the game.
- Plan accordingly: Park-and-ride options usually require more travel time to get to the stadium. Plan to arrive earlier to avoid delays.
Transportation Options Beyond Parking
Sometimes, parking can be such a headache that it’s easier to leave the car at home or somewhere else and explore other transportation options. Especially if you plan on having a few tailgating refreshments, finding an alternate method of travel to Scott Stadium may be a better approach. Here are a few alternatives to consider:
Ride-Sharing Services (Uber/Lyft)
Using a ride-sharing service like Uber or Lyft can be very convenient. You don’t need to worry about driving or finding parking. They can drop you off relatively close to Scott Stadium, or at a drop off location, then you can simply make the short walk. Keep the following in mind:
- Be prepared for surge pricing: Especially closer to game time, or immediately after, you’ll likely encounter surge pricing. Plan for that additional expense.
- Designated drop-off areas: There will be designated drop off and pick up spots around the stadium. Be sure to locate these on a map before the day of the game so you know where your pickup location will be after the game.
- Schedule in advance: You can try scheduling your ride ahead of time, although availability is not guaranteed. Still, it may be a good tactic to try.
Walking and Biking
If you’re staying close to the university, walking or biking to the stadium is a great way to go, especially since the atmosphere around the game is exciting and full of Cavalier fans. Consider these details if you are planning on walking or biking:
- Map out your route: Plan your walk or bike ride in advance. Use a map to get an idea of how long it will take and what paths are the best to take.
- Be safe: If you’re biking, use bike lanes where available. Be aware of pedestrian traffic, especially close to game time. If walking, stay on sidewalks and look both ways before crossing roadways.
- Enjoy the scenery: Walking or biking is a nice way to take in the campus and see other fans as they arrive.
Tips for a Stress-Free Game Day Parking Experience
Okay, now that you have all of the information on where to park, let’s talk about some tips that will help make your game day parking experience as smooth and stress free as possible. Let’s make sure you’re fully ready for game day!
Arrive Early!
This is the golden rule for parking at any big event, but especially at UVA football games. The earlier you get to the stadium, the more options you’ll have and the closer you’ll be able to park. Even if you don’t have a reserved spot, arriving early will make a huge difference in finding a good location.
Check Game Day Information
Before heading out, make sure you check the official UVA Athletics website for any game day specific details. They often provide information on parking, road closures, and any other important details that can impact your parking experience. Game day information can change from week to week, so checking before each game is a good strategy.
Know Your Options Ahead of Time
Don’t wait until the last minute to figure out where you’re going to park. Use this guide, and do a little planning before game day so you’re not scrambling when you arrive. The time you spend planning ahead will save you time on game day.
Have a Backup Plan
Even with the best plans, sometimes things don’t work out. Maybe the lot you planned on going to is full. Be sure to have one or two backup options in mind. That way, if your first choice is not available, you’ll be prepared to go somewhere else without delay.
Use Navigation Apps
Navigation apps can help you to see real-time traffic and road closures, and often have up to the minute information that you might find useful on game day. These apps can also direct you to available parking lots, especially in areas you might not be familiar with. Use your map app to see your drive time and then set off early enough to get to the stadium comfortably.
Be Patient
Game days can be busy, so be prepared to be patient. There will be traffic and crowds, and you may have to wait to park. Keep your cool and make the most of your day. Remember, the fun of the game will make any delays worth the wait.
Consider Tailgating
Tailgating is a big part of the game day experience at UVA. If you plan on tailgating, make sure to check on guidelines and procedures for tailgating before you arrive on game day. Also, be sure to choose a parking spot that works well with your tailgating plans.
Wear comfortable shoes
You’ll likely be doing a lot of walking on game day, so wear comfortable shoes to make sure your feet are happy all day. Whether you’re walking from the parking lot, around the stadium, or at the tailgate area, you’ll be doing more walking than usual.
Bring Cash
Some private parking lots may only accept cash. Be sure to bring some with you, especially if you think you might park in an unofficial lot. Having cash on hand can be very useful on game day.
Pay Attention to Signs
There will be a lot of signs posted for parking directions and traffic. Pay attention to these signs and follow their directions, so that you arrive safely to the stadium and park where you intend to park. Following the signs carefully is essential.
Finding the best parking spot for a UVA football game doesn’t need to be a game-day headache. With a little planning and this guide, you can make sure that getting there is just as fun as cheering on the Cavaliers. So, plan ahead, arrive early, and get ready to enjoy a fantastic day of UVA football! Have a great time at the game!
Company aims to eliminate parking hassle during UVA football games
Final Thoughts
For easy access, consider parking at the Emmet/Ivy Garage or John Paul Jones Arena lots. These options offer shuttle service, making getting to the stadium simple. Alternatively, some private lots near the stadium offer parking for a fee.
Plan to arrive early since popular parking areas fill quickly. Finding ideal parking for uva football games requires a bit of planning. Remember that choosing the right spot will enhance your game day experience.
