Gies Memorial Stadium
Champaign · Home of 🎓 Illinois Fighting Illini
⚡ Quick answers
- Who plays at Gies Memorial Stadium?
- Gies Memorial Stadium in Champaign is home to the Illinois Fighting Illini (NCAAF).
- What is the closest airport to Gies Memorial Stadium?
- Champaign Willard (CMI) is the closest airport, about 6 miles (10 km) from Gies Memorial Stadium — a smaller airport with fewer flights. For more flights, Indianapolis (IND) is about 133 miles (3h 10m) away.
- How much is parking at Gies Memorial Stadium?
- Game-day parking starts around $30 USD. Color-coded lots surround campus; orange lots sell on gameday and teal lots can be bought in advance.
- How do you get to Gies Memorial Stadium without a car?
- MTD's 280 tranSPORT gameday route serves campus pick-up points; free with an iCard or MTD pass, otherwise $2 round trip.
- Where are the best seats at Gies Memorial Stadium?
- Block I student section is in sections 129–133 and gets loud. Tailgate energy is strongest on the stadium's west side near Grange Grove.
✈️🚗 Getting to Gies Memorial Stadium
Nearest major airport: Indianapolis (IND) — about 133 mi / 3h 10m away.
🚗 Rent a car at IND🏟️ Fan guide
Best seats
Block I student section is in sections 129–133 and gets loud. Tailgate energy is strongest on the stadium's west side near Grange Grove.
Parking
Color-coded lots surround campus; orange lots sell on gameday and teal lots can be bought in advance. Lot 31 (across from the stadium) and Lot 42 take RVs and oversized vehicles. ($30 USD)
Getting there
MTD's 280 tranSPORT gameday route serves campus pick-up points; free with an iCard or MTD pass, otherwise $2 round trip.
Bar scene
Grange Grove (free plots, gates 7 a.m.) is the tailgate hub, with Street Fest two hours pre-kick, and Campustown bars open by noon on Saturdays.
Pre-game bars
- KAMS — Campustown bar; 19+ on gamedays
- The Red Lion — Campustown bar; 19+ on gamedays
- Joe's Brewery — Campustown brewpub with food
Insider tips
- Book free Grange Grove plot ahead
- Fireworks 60 and 25 minutes pre-kick
- Lots open 7 a.m.