The Tn Vols Game day is a vibrant, family-friendly experience in Knoxville, filled with traditions and activities, and polarservicecenter.net is here to help you navigate it all. Our guide offers insights on parking, tailgating, and more, ensuring you make the most of your visit. Explore our site for reliable product support and tips.
1. Can I Bring My Kids to a TN Vols Game?
Absolutely, the atmosphere on a TN Vols game day is generally family-friendly. The excitement surrounding a home game is often a hit with kids, making it a memorable experience. However, the intensity can vary; night games and rivalry games can be more spirited due to extended tailgating and heightened emotions.
While these games can occasionally expose children to colorful language, it’s typically manageable. Knoxville offers a variety of kid-friendly activities on game days, such as exploring the Farmer’s Market, watching the UT band march, and admiring the Vol Navy. For more detailed information, resources such as “6 Fun Things To Do With The Kids On Game Day” provide insight into enjoying the day with children.
2. What’s the Best Way to Navigate Game Day Traffic for Tn Vols Game?
Navigating game day traffic for TN Vols games requires planning. Arriving early is crucial to avoid congestion. Aim to be downtown at least three hours before kickoff, adjusting for later games as tailgating begins earlier.
Consider staying in a downtown Knoxville hotel to eliminate traffic concerns. You can park your car on Friday and not worry about it until Sunday, enjoying the city’s attractions, dining, and festive atmosphere. Gay Street and Market Square hotels are recommended for their proximity to activities and easier parking. For more detailed hotel options, resources such as “Where To Stay On Game Day” offer valuable insights.
2.1. Where Can I Find Free Parking?
The State Street Garage in downtown Knoxville offers free parking on weekends, including game days. It’s easily accessible from the interstate, minimizing traffic hassles. A pedestrian walkway on the garage’s third level connects to Gay Street, leading to a 1.1-mile walk to Neyland Stadium. Alternatively, a $10 KAT shuttle from Krutch Park provides transportation to the game.
For comprehensive parking information, including options downtown and on campus, consult “The Best Place To Park Near Neyland Stadium For A University Of Tennessee Football Game” which provides details about the KAT Football Shuttles.
3. What Free and Fun Activities Can I Do Before a TN Vols Game?
Knoxville offers numerous free and enjoyable activities before a TN Vols game. Begin downtown and visit the Farmer’s Market in Market Square. This is a great place to start your day, with a festive atmosphere and a variety of food trucks and vendors. The market offers local produce, crafts, and snacks.
3.1. Where Can I Eat Before the Game?
Consider dining at one of the many restaurants around Market Square or Gay Street. Popular choices include Soccer Taco, Tomato Head, Not Watson’s, and Tupelo Honey. For coffee, visit Coffee and Chocolate on Union Street or K Brew in the Embassy Suites. For extensive restaurant recommendations, check out “Best Restaurants In Downtown.”
3.2. Can I Walk to the Stadium?
Yes, you can walk from downtown Knoxville to Neyland Stadium. After exploring Market Square, walk down Clinch Street to the World’s Fair Park via the pedestrian bridge over Henley Street. This route leads to the Sunsphere, where you can enjoy a bird’s eye view of Game Day. Continue along the World’s Fair Park to the Second Creek Greenway, which takes you over Cumberland Avenue and along Second Creek to Neyland Stadium.
4. What Pre-Game Activities Should I Consider?
Choose from various pre-game activities based on your preferences and the weather. Go see the Vol Navy outside Neyland Stadium or tailgate on campus at the University of Tennessee. Watch UT’s Marching Band parade through campus.
4.1. What is the Vol Navy?
The Vol Navy is a unique tradition where boats gather on the Tennessee River near Neyland Stadium. You can walk along the Neyland Greenway to see this display.
The Vol Navy is parked along the Neyland Greenway in downtown Knoxville, TN. Neyland Stadium and Thompson- Boling Arena are in the distance.
Walking down Neyland Greenway to the stadium before the game. The Vol Navy is on the left and one of the best traditions in college football.
4.2. Where Can I Tailgate?
Tailgating is a significant part of the game day experience. The best tailgates near Neyland Stadium are on top of the G10 garage, in the parking lots surrounding the stadium, and behind the Clarence Brown Theatre. The Vol Village offers a public tailgate with food trucks, activities, and a large TV screen.
4.3. Where Can I Watch the Marching Band?
The University’s Pride of the Southland Marching Band parades from the Haslam Music Building to Neyland Stadium approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes before the game. Watch the band from the pedestrian bridge over Philip Fulmer Way for an optimal view.
3 color guard members hold a banner that says University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Tennessee while leading the marching band through campus before a Vols home football game
On the pedestrian bridge waiting for UT’s marching band to come by
4.4. Where Can I Find a Public Bathroom?
Public bathrooms can be found in the Student Union, near the Vol Village, and inside Hodges Library. The University provides a list of public bathrooms and port-a-potties open on Game Day.
5. What Food Options Are Available Near Neyland Stadium?
Before heading into Neyland Stadium, ensure everyone has eaten. Food inside the stadium can be expensive, so consider bringing granola bars or to-go food from the Farmer’s Market. You can also eat at tailgates or visit the Vol Village.
5.1. What’s Available at the Vol Village?
The Vol Village offers various food tents, including Dead End BBQ and Mexican cuisine. For a quick option, look for cheeseburgers sold near Dead End BBQ.
5.2. Where Else Can I Eat?
The Student Union has fast food restaurants and a Starbucks. The Strip (Cumberland Avenue) also offers dining options, though it can be crowded.
6. What Are Some Tips for Making the Most of Time in Neyland Stadium?
Arrive early to Neyland Stadium to enjoy pregame traditions like the team running through the “T” and the national anthem. Gates open 2 hours before kickoff. Be aware of the stadium’s prohibited items, including certain bags, outside food, and drinks.
6.1. What’s the Bag Policy?
Neyland Stadium enforces a clear bag policy. Bags must be no larger than 12 x 12 x 6 inches.
6.2. Can I Bring Water?
You are allowed to bring one factory-sealed water bottle per person into the game.
The team getting ready to run through the “T.” No matter how old I get, this never gets old. (And yeah, the picture is from the bad years. The stadium would never be that empty now at kickoff.)
Cruze Farm ice cream after the game
7. What Should I Do After the Game?
After the game, walk back to downtown Knoxville to avoid traffic. Consider stopping for ice cream at Cruze Farm Ice Cream on Gay Street or dining at a restaurant in Market Square.
8. What’s the General Advice for Volunteer Game Day Newbies?
Dress in orange for a Vols game day. Comfort is key, so choose comfortable clothing and shoes. Be prepared for varying weather conditions, as Neyland Stadium can be very hot or cold depending on the time of year.
8.1. How Can I Access My Tickets?
Download your tickets to your digital wallet before you go, as cell service can be unreliable near the stadium.
8.2. What About Alcohol?
While UT’s campus is technically dry, alcohol is often consumed discreetly. Alcohol is sold in the stadium.
8.3. What Are the Clear Bag Rules?
Adhere to the clear bag policy. Get a clear tote bag for your belongings.
8.4. Do Babies Need Tickets?
All humans, including babies, need a ticket for the game.
9. What Kind of Gear Should I Buy?
Here are the most valuable products for a TN Vols game day:
| Product | Why it’s useful |
|---|---|
| Mini Portable Fan | To keep you cool during early-season games when the weather is still hot. |
| Clear Tote Bag | So you can bring hats, sunglasses, water bottles, etc into the stadium, as no outside food is permitted. |
| Smaller Clear Bag | Easier to carry if you don’t need warm weather gear or are carrying around lots of drinks or food. |
| Clear Plastic Shoulder Bag | For bringing essential items into the stadium while adhering to the clear bag policy. |
| Clear Fanny Pack | Hands-free way to carry essentials while complying with stadium regulations. |
| Stadium Approved Tennessee Tote Bag | Specifically designed to meet stadium requirements, ensuring hassle-free entry. |
10. FAQ: Your TN Vols Game Day Questions Answered
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| What time should I arrive for a TN Vols game to avoid traffic? | Aim to arrive at least 3 hours before kickoff. For a noon game, try to arrive by 9 am. Adjust for later games as tailgating starts earlier. |
| Where is the best place to park for free on game day? | The State Street Garage in downtown Knoxville offers free parking on weekends, including game days. |
| What can I do before the game that’s fun and free? | Visit the Farmer’s Market in Market Square, walk to UT’s campus from downtown, see the Vol Navy, and watch the Pride of the Southland Marching Band parade. |
| Are there family-friendly activities available on game day? | Yes, Knoxville offers numerous kid-friendly activities such as exploring the Farmer’s Market, watching the UT band march, and admiring the Vol Navy. |
| What should I wear to a TN Vols game? | Wear orange! Comfort is key, so choose comfortable clothing and shoes suitable for walking and varying weather conditions. |
| What is the clear bag policy at Neyland Stadium? | Bags must be clear and no larger than 12 x 12 x 6 inches. A clear tote bag is recommended. |
| Can I bring food or drinks into Neyland Stadium? | Outside food is generally not allowed, but you can bring one factory-sealed water bottle per person. |
| How can I access my tickets on game day? | Download your tickets to your digital wallet or take a screenshot before you leave home, as cell service near the stadium can be unreliable. |
| Where can I find public restrooms on UT’s campus during game day? | Public restrooms are available in the Student Union, near the Vol Village, and inside Hodges Library. |
| What should I do after the game to avoid traffic? | Walk back to downtown Knoxville and consider stopping for a meal or ice cream. Waiting an hour or two before driving can help you avoid the worst of the traffic. |
| Is alcohol allowed on the University of Tennessee campus during game day? | While UT’s campus is technically dry, many people drink discreetly. Alcohol is sold inside Neyland Stadium. |
| Where can I find the best tailgating spots near Neyland Stadium? | The top of the G10 garage, the parking lots surrounding the stadium, and the area behind the Clarence Brown Theatre are popular tailgating locations. |
| What time does the Pride of the Southland Marching Band perform? | The band parades from the Haslam Music Building to Neyland Stadium about 1 hour and 40 minutes before the game. Check the UT Athletics app for specific times. |
| Are there any specific restaurants recommended for pre- or post-game meals? | Popular choices include Soccer Taco, Tomato Head, Not Watson’s, and Tupelo Honey in downtown Knoxville. Cruze Farm Ice Cream on Gay Street is great for a post-game treat. |
| What is the Vol Navy, and where can I see it? | The Vol Navy is a collection of boats that gather on the Tennessee River near Neyland Stadium. You can view it by walking along the Neyland Greenway. |
We at polarservicecenter.net hope this Tennessee Vols Game Day Survival Guide helps you have a blast at one of our favorite events of the year. Whether you are here for your first or your fortieth game, it’s always a blast on Rocky Top. And don’t forget your orange! If you need assistance with your Polar product or need advice on fitness, we’re here to help. Contact us at +1 (303) 492-7080 or visit our website polarservicecenter.net. Our address is 2902 Bluff St, Boulder, CO 80301, United States.
Go Vols!
