Many visitors to The Ohio State University have questions about how they can maximize their experience while at the mecca of college football! While we are happy to answer any questions you might have, below are the answers to some of the most common questions:
There are several options available for parking. If you would like to tailgate, your best option is to park at one of the day of game pay lots. They have first-come, first-serve spaces available for cars and vans. Their tailgate parking costs are somewhere between $10-20. Another parking option is the Woody Hayes Athletic Center. They provide shuttle service to the stadium, but there may be long waits before and after the game. Yet another option would be to exit St. Rt. 315 on Ackerman Drive, follow it to Neil Avenue, turn right on Neil, and follow the street toward Lane Avenue. Many of the houses on this street offer parking on their front lawn. The cost will vary from $5-10, depending on how close to Lane you stop. Click here for more information on OSU parking.
Your arrival time depends on how much of "the experience" you would like to enjoy. I would recommend arriving no later than an hour or two before the game. The parking will be much easier, and you will be able to walk around and enjoy the spectacle that is OSU Tailgating.
Not having a tailgate to join is not a problem at Ohio State. There are a variety of options for you to choose. The first choice would be to start at The Ozone on Lane Ave. This party, which has taken over for the famously popular Hineygate, includes a rock band, lots of tents full of beer, and lots of young tailgate goers looking for a good time.
There are other parties hosted by radio stations up and down Lane Avenue. This includes an OSU Football Gameday staple, The Varsity Club located right next to Conrad's College Gifts. Yet another choice would include going to the Schottenstein Center at Lane Avenue and Olentangy River Road. The University hosts a more family oriented party in the parking lot of the Schott. Finally, you can always walk around the parking lots around Ohio Stadium. There is a lot of fun stuff going on, but watch out for the police. They are looking for open containers everywhere!
Unfortunately, I don't have a magic solution for tickets. There are always scalpers hanging out around the North end of the stadium. Also, there are usually people selling tickets next to Heineygate. I've found better luck there, but it's totally random luck if you find a good price on a scalped ticket. Another option would be to walk around the tailgate areas. I've seen people buy tickets for face value because someone at a tailgate doesn't feel like making the effort to get a better price. Finally, you should always check with the ticket office. They often get tickets returned from the visiting school a week prior to the game. They can be reached at their website, http://www.hangonsloopy.com.
Here are my favorite things that a rookie should check out:
- OSU Marching Band - Skull Session occurs 2 hours before every home game. The band plays crowd favorites, as well as a few new songs.
- Heineygate - Great time, where you will meet hundreds of Buckeye fans
- Band Entrance into the Stadium - Make sure you are in your seats a half-hour before kickoff. The pageantry of the band entrance is incomparable.
- Conrad's College Gifts - You have never been to a Buckeye store like this. They have just about everything Buckeye!
Also, I found this well-rounded article on the web: Taylor Tastes
CletusFest Tailgating FAQs
If you plan on attending an upcoming CletusFest tailgate, here are answers to some of our most frequently asked questions.
Your hosts will provide a full breakfast, beverages (both "adult" and "family friendly"), snacks, and a primary meal (either lunch or dinner)to Cletusfest guests.
Attendees are asked to bring a side dish or desert, as well as a monetary contribution. The amount of your donation should match the time and amenities you plan to enjoy. For example, if you plan to experience the full day's activities of Cletusfest (including breakfast, lunch, and drinks), then you should pay more than a person who comes for only an hour prior to game time.
The official start of Cletusfest begins three hours before game time. However, you usually will find the hosts setting up and enjoying the morning as early as 7:00 a.m. You are welcome to arrive as early as you wish, but you may want to contact us to verify our arrival time. Cletusfest remains open throughout each home game. The fun continues at least 3 hours after the game.
We welcome new friends to the Cletusfest family, but ask that you RSVP at least three days before the game. That way we are assured to have enough food and drinks. Before arriving at Cletusfest, we recommend you review the OSU rules regarding alcohol and respect of property. Also, we ask that you inform your guests of what they should bring (see above).
People are likely to see just about anything at a Cletusfest event. From the unique Scarlet and Grey costumes to the diverse personalities, a rookie's experience is something not soon to be forgotten. The most important aspect of Cletusfest is fellowship. We pride ourselves on creating new friendships and enjoying the company of long time friends. As stated in the lyrics of "Carmen Ohio:" Summer's Heat and Winter's Cold, the Season's Pass, the Years Will Roll. Time and Change will Surely Show. How Firm Thy Friendship, O-HI-O!!
Go Bucks!
Cletusfest is located on The Ohio State University campus, right next to the stadium. If you have any questions feel free tocontact us about specific directions.
