When asking yourself about something to do near me in Salt Lake City with a group of friends or family, consider
Rice-Eccles Stadium
Why Rice-Eccles Stadium is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Rice-Eccles Stadium, located on the University of Utah campus in Salt Lake City, is a premier college football venue best known as the home field for the Utah Utes football team. Opened in 1998, it was constructed on the site of the original Rice Stadium (which itself was formerly Ute Stadium, dating back to 1927). This modern stadium features over 45,000 seats surrounding a high-quality FieldTurf playing surface, framed by a three-tier press box that includes 450 club seats and 25 suites for a top-tier fan experience. The facility stands at an elevation of 4,637 feet, offering a unique atmosphere for sports enthusiasts.
Beyond sports, Rice-Eccles is famed for its role as the centerpiece stadium for the 2002 Winter Olympics’ opening and closing ceremonies, giving it an international and historical significance. The stadium has continually evolved, with major renovations announced in 2018 to expand capacity to over 51,000 seats, add luxury suites, upgrade locker rooms, and enhance fan amenities. It also hosts varied events like Nitro Circus shows, capitalizing on its adaptable and fan-friendly design.
Rice-Eccles Stadium is more than just a sports venue; it’s a vibrant gathering spot for fans and friends to share in the thrill of college football and celebrate Utah’s rich sporting traditions and community spirit. Its easy accessibility, ample parking, and inviting ambiance make it a favored destination for both local residents and visiting supporters.
Here's what people think of Rice-Eccles Stadium
As of recent, Rice-Eccles Stadium holds a 4.6-star rating based on 3102 reviews.
User reviews of Rice-Eccles Stadium reflect a generally positive experience, with a strong rating of 4.6 out of 5 across more than 3,000 reviews. Fans appreciate the lively atmosphere during football games, the stadium’s scenic views — especially from premium areas like the varsity room — and the convenient parking facilities that facilitate smooth arrivals and departures.
Positive reviews often highlight the excellent food service, helpful staff, and the well-maintained, fan-focused venue. Many visitors note the stadium’s manageable size, which fosters an intimate and engaging game-day experience. The West side seating is praised for minimizing sun exposure during events, enhancing spectator comfort. Reviewers attending non-football events have also found the venue versatile and enjoyable.
However, some critiques point out that while the stadium offers a good atmosphere, the college football experience here is not as deeply rooted or raucous as at other long-established programs, possibly due to the more recent rise of fan enthusiasm. A few visitors mentioned occasional event staff confusion and minor logistical issues, such as distant parking or sun exposure in certain sections, though these tend to be isolated comments.
Overall, reviews suggest Rice-Eccles Stadium is a well-liked, functional stadium that supports a growing fan base and provides a memorable setting for collegiate sports and special events alike. The ongoing upgrades promise to further elevate the experience for both players and spectators in the years ahead.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Mike M
I was there for Monster Jam Finals 2025. I have been to a lot of stadium's and the food at most stadium's are repetitive as you walk around. Not here. There was the regular, hotdogs, corn dogs, hamburgers, nachos, pizza and such. But they had so much more. There was Chinese bowls, Two different Mexican places that what I saw with their nachos put the others to shame. Shaved ice, drinks, beer. But so much different kinds of food. The prices are like any other stadium, outrageous. The bathrooms were pretty clean for the amount of people, and no long wait. The main bathrooms do not have changing stations. You need to go to a different one for that. (once I remember what it was called I'll update) The parking was all over. I paid for closer parking on the second day because walking with 4 kids and one a special needs and one a todler was kinda hard. If you go to any event there in the daytime. Try to get tickets on the west side. We didn't pay attention how the stadium was set and setting sun right in our face.
David Fielding
Pretty nice stadium for a university. The food vendors were decent. We were here for Monster Jam World Finals. The parking situation may be the worst I've ever experienced. I drove all the way back to the hotel and got and Uber. Do yourself a favor and take an Uber. Go to the pizza place after and avoid the rush getting out.
Walter R
We watched the Utes' practice game and had a lot of fun. Parking was no problem at all and after a swift security screening we were allowed to enter the stadium. I hadn't been here for more than 10 years when I was attending a U2 show.
Maria G
We’ve been here for multiple events and we’ve never had a bad experience. Parking is tricky but they have always had staff directing everyone around. Food has been great. Restrooms clean. We really like coming here
Hyrum Thompson
I went for the monster jam and it was very good. Best finale ever and really great entertainment. The UTA was not prepared at all for the influx of fans coming in and I was deeply disappointed with them. Leaving the venue took 30 mins to get to the TRAX and they didn’t have great routes back to the frontrunner which we took to get there. We ended up taking an uber after getting out of a very crammed TRAX car at library station. Great show awful planning by the UTA. Also 18 dollars for 2 corn dogs is whack.
How to reach Rice-Eccles Stadium
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Why Rice-Eccles Stadium may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Rice-Eccles Stadium with your friends?
Gathering with friends or family at Rice-Eccles Stadium is more than just attending a game—it's an immersive experience that blends thrilling sports action with breathtaking scenery and a vibrant community atmosphere. Nestled on the University of Utah campus with a stunning mountain backdrop, Rice-Eccles Stadium offers an iconic setting that makes any meetup feel special and memorable. When you rally here, you are part of a passionate crowd known for creating one of the toughest environments in college football, fueling excitement and bonding through shared cheers and energy. The stadium’s recent expansion and state-of-the-art premium seating options add layers of comfort and luxury, enhancing the social aspects of game day. With a capacity of over 51,000 and various lounges, terraces, and rooftop seating, it caters to groups of all sizes, allowing you to connect in style. Beyond sports, the stadium’s lively concourses, numerous concession points, and dedicated entertainment zones make it an ideal venue for celebrating with loved ones, making Rice-Eccles much more than just a football stadium—it’s an engaging community hub perfect for any group meetup.
What activities make Rice-Eccles Stadium perfect for a group meetup?
Rice-Eccles Stadium offers a range of activities and amenities that ensure a dynamic and enjoyable experience for groups. The core attraction is undoubtedly the Utah Utes football games, which deliver thrilling competition within an electrifying environment. Watching your team face off in this “toughest stadium” is a unifying experience buoyed by the roar of tens of thousands of fans. But the stadium also hosts concerts, special events, and university celebrations, allowing groups to enjoy diverse entertainment beyond sports. Premium seating areas such as luxury suites, loge boxes, and field-level clubs provide exclusive spaces for socializing, complete with comfortable seating and access to upscale concessions. Outdoor patios and rooftop venues give groups picturesque views of the city and mountains, blending socializing with scenic beauty. Enhanced fan zones and wide concourses offer ample space for walking, mingling, and exploring various food and drink options, ensuring everyone in the group finds something enjoyable. Additionally, the stadium’s convenient parking and accessible facilities make planning and attending meetups smooth and stress-free.
How has the design and atmosphere of Rice-Eccles Stadium enhanced group experiences?
The architectural design and atmosphere of Rice-Eccles Stadium significantly contribute to a compelling group experience. The stadium’s modern steel, concrete, and glass structure combines with panoramic mountain views that create a visually stunning backdrop for any gathering. This striking design elevates the sense of occasion, making events feel exceptional and encouraging social energy. Inside, the stadium’s 360-degree concourse conceived in the Ken Garff Red Zone expansion encloses the seating bowl, immersing guests in the game-day excitement and fostering connectivity among attendees. This design helps channel the crowd’s energy, amplifying the collective passion that is particularly thrilling for group visitors. The addition of over 1,000 new bleacher seats and nearly 2,400 premium seats enhances seating options, ensuring comfort and flexibility in how groups arrange themselves. Furthermore, the presence of wide concourses, multiple restrooms, and concession areas reduces congestion and wait times, allowing groups to stay connected and engaged throughout the event. All these features combine to create an interactive, vibrant atmosphere that strengthens camaraderie and shared memories.
Why is Rice-Eccles Stadium ideal for hosting celebrations and meetups?
Rice-Eccles Stadium is an exceptional venue for celebrations and meetups due to its blend of versatility, capacity, and premium amenities. With seating for more than 51,000 attendees, the stadium can comfortably accommodate small gatherings to large groups, making it suitable for diverse occasions such as birthdays, reunions, corporate events, or family outings. The Ken Garff Red Zone’s expanded premium areas, including suites and rooftop terraces, offer private and semi-private settings that enhance intimacy without sacrificing access to the larger event atmosphere. These spaces are equipped with modern amenities that elevate comfort and social interaction, such as dedicated lounges, upscale concession offerings, and excellent sightlines of the field. Moreover, the stadium’s central location on the University of Utah campus ensures easy accessibility for guests, with ample parking and public transit nearby. The venue’s staff also have extensive experience supporting diverse event types, ensuring flawless coordination and a welcoming environment for visitors. This combination of scale, flexibility, and top-notch facilities makes Rice-Eccles Stadium more than just a sports venue—it’s a hub for memorable community and private celebrations.
What are the food, beverage, and social amenities available for groups?
Rice-Eccles Stadium excels in providing a variety of food and beverage options that accommodate different tastes and enhance social gatherings. Numerous concession stands throughout the stadium offer classic stadium fare such as burgers, hot dogs, and snacks alongside healthier and locally inspired choices, ensuring everyone in a group finds something appealing. Premium seating areas come with exclusive catering and bar services, elevating meetups with gourmet food, craft beverages, and dessert selections that contrast with standard offerings. The inclusion of outdoor patios and rooftop areas introduces casual yet refined social spaces where groups can mingle with food and drinks in hand while enjoying views of the surrounding mountains. Additionally, multiple points of sale for concessions reduce wait times and crowd bottlenecks, fostering a relaxed environment for guests to socialize. The stadium’s family-friendly atmosphere is supported by designated kids’ zones and accessible seating, making it easy to bring along groups that include members of all ages. Collectively, these amenities create a hospitable, festive environment where friends and families can enjoy quality time together.
How does Rice-Eccles Stadium support accessibility and guest convenience?
For any group meetup, convenience and accessibility are critical factors, and Rice-Eccles Stadium addresses these with thoughtful design and services. The stadium features numerous ADA-compliant seating areas distributed throughout the venue, allowing guests with mobility needs to enjoy games and events comfortably alongside their group. Elevators, ramps, and wide concourses facilitate easy movement through the stadium, reducing friction for all attendees. The stadium also provides ample restroom facilities and hydration stations to minimize waiting and maximize comfort during long events. For those driving to the stadium, several parking options are available, including lots close to the venue and accessible parking spaces specifically reserved for guests with disabilities. Additionally, public transportation access and rideshare drop-off zones simplify entry and exit logistics, which is especially helpful for larger groups. All these guest services ensure that everyone attending a meetup at Rice-Eccles Stadium experiences convenience and ease, allowing full focus on the event and social interactions.
Why is Rice-Eccles Stadium considered one of the best home-field venues in the Pac-12?
Rice-Eccles Stadium’s reputation as one of the premier home-field venues in the Pac-12 Conference is well-earned and enhances its appeal as a meetup destination. The stadium’s intimate seating capacity of 51,444 creates an energetic and intense atmosphere that resonates with both players and fans. Its design captures the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape, integrating panoramic mountain views that make every event visually impressive. The 2021 Ken Garff Red Zone expansion enclosed the seating bowl, which heightens crowd noise and immersion, contributing to one of the “toughest stadiums” reputations in college football. The vibrant fan base and tradition of passionate support ensure that every game day is an occasion filled with excitement and community spirit. This rare combination of aesthetic beauty, competitive intensity, and fan engagement makes Rice-Eccles Stadium a uniquely compelling venue for groups seeking not just entertainment but also a deeper connection to sports culture.
What are some notable historical facts and milestones about Rice-Eccles Stadium?
Rice-Eccles Stadium has a rich history that adds depth and significance to any visit. Opened in 1998, it replaced the former Rice Stadium but preserved a legacy of Salt Lake City’s dedication to sports and community. The stadium notably hosted events during the 2002 Winter Olympics, marking it as a venue of international importance early in its life. Its capacity has steadily increased through strategic expansions, including a major $80 million project completed in 2021 that added over 5,600 seats. This expansion was supported by the Ken Garff family’s historic $17.5 million donation, the largest in Utah Athletics history, showcasing strong community investment in the venue’s future. Rice-Eccles holds records such as its largest crowd of 53,644 spectators for a game against Florida in 2023, illustrating its continued growth and popularity. These milestones showcase not only the stadium’s architectural and operational evolution but also its central role in uniting fans, athletes, and communities around memorable sporting and social events.
How can groups best prepare for a visit to Rice-Eccles Stadium?
To maximize the benefits of meeting up at Rice-Eccles Stadium, groups should plan ahead considering several practical tips. Arriving early helps secure parking and allows time to explore the concourses, sample concessions, and find preferred seating without rush. Checking the event schedule and any special promotions or theme nights can enhance the experience with added entertainment or giveaways. For groups utilizing premium seating or suites, coordinating food and beverage options in advance ensures smooth service and minimizes wait times. Coordinating meeting points within the stadium, especially in a venue spanning more than 51,000 seats, helps keep the group organized and connected throughout the event. Dressing appropriately for weather conditions, especially given Utah’s mountain location, will improve comfort, as temperatures can vary significantly between day and night. Lastly, leveraging public transportation or ridesharing can reduce parking hassles and streamline arrival and departure logistics, making the meetup more pleasant and stress-free. With these preparations, groups can fully enjoy all that Rice-Eccles Stadium has to offer.
What community and cultural values does Rice-Eccles Stadium promote?
Rice-Eccles Stadium embodies community spirit and cultural pride, making it a venue that promotes connection beyond just entertainment. As the home of the Utah Utes, it is a symbolic gathering place for students, alumni, local residents, and fans who share a collective identity centered on athletic excellence and school pride. The stadium’s design and expansions have been supported by significant local philanthropists, highlighting a tradition of community investment and collaboration. It also serves as a multipurpose venue hosting university events, concerts, and cultural celebrations that foster inclusivity and engagement across diverse groups. The dedicated spaces for students, bands, and community participants underline the stadium’s role as a cultural hub. By providing a spectacular setting where people can come together to celebrate, compete, and share experiences, Rice-Eccles Stadium sustains and strengthens community bonds, making it an ideal meetup spot for family and friends who want to be part of something greater.
What feedback do visitors give about the experience at Rice-Eccles Stadium?
Visitors consistently praise Rice-Eccles Stadium for its atmosphere, comfort, and overall experience, as reflected in its high rating of 4.6 from over 3,000 reviews. Fans highlight the stadium’s stunning views of the surrounding mountains as a unique feature that enhances every event. The upgraded premium seating, including luxury suites and rooftop areas, frequently garners positive remarks for providing both comfort and an elevated social setting. Many reviews note the friendly, energetic crowd and the stadium staff’s helpfulness in creating a welcoming environment for groups. The variety and quality of food and beverage options are also appreciated, making visits enjoyable beyond the main event. Some visitors mention the effective organization of parking and accessibility, which smooths the logistical side of attending. While a few reviews address the typical challenges of large crowds, the overall consensus is that Rice-Eccles Stadium delivers an outstanding, fun, and memorable experience suitable for reunions, celebrations, or casual outings with friends and family.