Finding a space on a football Saturday at Ohio Stadium requires a clear plan before you leave home. CampusParc manages the game day footprint, dividing public options into three distinct price tiers based on how close they sit to the stadium. Day-of-game parking costs $60 for Premiere lots, $40 for Proximity lots, and $30 for Non-Proximity lots on West Campus. Every entrance is completely cashless, accepting credit cards or smartphones only. Lots open at 5:00 a.m., and spaces fill on a first-come, first-served basis.
Knowing how the system operates prevents costly delays at traffic checkpoints. Because many core spaces belong to season permit holders, public drivers often end up further out than expected. Understanding tier pricing, shuttle routes, and tailgating regulations turns a stressful morning into a smooth arrival.
Understanding the Parking Tiers and Pricing Structure
CampusParc prices public game day parking by proximity. Each tier offers specific trade-offs between cost and walking distance to Ohio Stadium.
- Premiere Locations ($60): Surface lots like Ag Administration and Vivian place you closest to the stadium. These lots fill hours before kickoff and offer the shortest walk.
- Proximity Locations ($40): Garages such as Neil Avenue and Arps sit within the campus core. They provide covered structures and a moderate walk to the gates.
- Non-Proximity Locations ($30): Situated on West Campus west of SR-315, these lots offer the most reliable day-of-game availability. A free shuttle runs from the Mount Hall loop directly to the Herrick Drive Transit Hub south of the stadium.
Payment relies entirely on digital methods. Keep your credit card or smartphone ready because cash is never accepted at lot entrances.
Critical Rules That Catch Drivers Off Guard
A few strict regulations govern game day operations across campus. Violating them can result in towing or wasted money.
- No Re-Entry: Once you drive out of a lot or garage, your pass is spent. If part of your group arrives late in a separate vehicle, they cannot park in your spot or use your stub to re-enter. Coordinate travel so your entire party arrives together.
- No Cash Acceptance: Every gate requires contactless or card payment. Prepare your payment method before reaching the attendant lane.
- Annual Permit Exceptions: Current annual CampusParc permit holders can park free in designated Non-Proximity and Proximity day-of-game lots by scanning a valid access keycard or QR code. Daily or monthly permits do not grant this privilege.
- Clearance Deadlines: Vehicles parked in day-of-game lots must exit no later than 10:00 a.m. on the Sunday following the game.
Navigating Traffic and Police Control Points
Local traffic patterns shift dramatically hours before kickoff. Police and traffic control officers route vehicles based on the color or type of digital pass displayed.
Have a passenger hold your digital parking pass against the window so officers can direct you instantly. Getting waved away from a restricted turn wastes valuable time. Standard navigation apps often fail on game days because they don't account for temporary one-way street conversions and road closures. Follow physical directional signage and officer hand signals rather than automated routing instructions.
For official updates on gameday maps and traffic alerts, check the Ohio State Football Gameday Guide.
Tailgating Guidelines and Space Regulations
Tailgating is a central tradition outside Ohio Stadium, but strict parameters keep lots orderly.
- Opening Time: Tailgating activities and lot access begin simultaneously at 5:00 a.m. on game days.
- Space Limits: Your vehicle and your entire tailgating setup must fit completely within a single 8.5 by 15-foot parking space. Saving empty adjacent spaces for friends is prohibited.
- Grill Rules: Only liquid propane grills are permitted. Charcoal and wood fires are banned across all campus parking facilities.
Review complete safety guidelines through the CampusParc Event Parking Portal.
Accessible Parking and Shuttles
Guests requiring mobility assistance find designated spaces north of St. John Arena and inside the Lane Avenue Garage. Entering these areas requires a valid state-issued disability placard along with matching vehicle registration.
A free accessible shuttle operates from the surface lots north of St. John Arena directly to the east side of Ohio Stadium near Gate 22. This service begins six hours prior to kickoff and runs until one hour after the final whistle.
Frequently Asked Questions
What time do parking lots open on game days?
All football parking lots and garages open at 5:00 a.m. on game days. Day-of-game spaces operate on a first-come, first-served basis.
Can I buy a parking pass with cash at the lot entrance?
No. All day-of-game locations are strictly cashless, accepting credit cards and smartphone payments only.
What is the cheapest option if premiere lots sell out?
Non-Proximity lots on West Campus cost $30 per vehicle and include a complimentary shuttle ride directly to the south side of the stadium.
Can I leave my car overnight after the game?
All vehicles parked in day-of-game lots must depart by 10:00 a.m. on the Sunday morning following the game.
