The entry experience into Ohio Stadium is changing this year. Check out this video to see how parking permits, security screening, and ticket scanning will be different!
You must follow all Ohio State and venue policies, including health and safety policies, and posted instructions while in the venue and on venue grounds. An inherent risk of exposure to COVID-19 exists in any public place where people are present. COVID-19 is an extremely contagious disease that can lead to severe illness and death. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, senior citizens and guests with underlying medical conditions are especially vulnerable. By visiting Ohio State Athletic venues, you voluntarily assume all risks related to exposure to COVID-19.
Updated 8/10/21
Ohio State University updated its mask protocols last week to enhance the health and safety of the campus community and to reflect updated guidance from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Students, faculty, staff and visitors to all Ohio State campuses and medical facilities are required to wear masks indoors, regardless of vaccination status. Masks are required outdoors for unvaccinated individuals when they cannot maintain physical distancing. Vaccinated people are not required to mask outdoors.
Football game day mask policies include:
Skull Session – All staff and guests will be required to wear masks; the Marching Band and the football team will wear masks.
French Field House – All events will require masks for all staff and guests.
Ohio Stadium – Masks will be required in all interior public spaces, which includes the Huntington Club, elevators, first aid rooms, restrooms and press box. Masks will not be required for outdoor public spaces, which include the entry gates, concourses, concession stands and the seating bowl.
Public Transportation – Masks will continue to be required for all campus public transportation, including game day ADA and west campus shuttles.
The Ohio State University encourages everyone to get vaccinated as soon as possible.
To help limit your contact with other individuals you do not know, we have enhanced the entry experience to Ohio Stadium. All concessions and merchandise locations will go cashless – credit cards and Apple Pay/Google Pay will be accepted. In addition, your parking permits will be digital on your phone with your game tickets. If you pay the day of game parking fee, be prepared with a credit card or smartphone payment! Guests will now undergo a frictionless metal detector screening upon entry to Ohio Stadium. When you go to scan your tickets, it will be done via self-service kiosk where you handle your own phone at a pedestal scanner. Don’t worry, our Redcoats & Ushers will be there to assist!
The address and phone number for Ohio Stadium is 411 Woody Hayes Drive, Columbus, OH 43210.
On game day, most streets on and around campus become one way. Do NOT rely upon GPS or Navigation devices to get you to Ohio Stadium. Upon completion of the game, the traffic patterns will be reversed. Traffic control officers will direct you. Guests with parking passes must follow the instructions distributed to you by email on how to navigate to your parking lot.
Campus may be accessed from exits on SR-315 north and south and I-71 north and south. Please check www.ohgo.com along these routes for available exits as exit availability may be adjusted due to construction in the area.
Guests are urged to arrive at to Ohio Stadium well in advance of kickoff. If you wait – you will be late. Enhanced security screening measures (such as walk through metal detectors) will be in place. Guests should be sure to have their game ticket on their phone when the arrive to the stadium and certainly when you head to your seats. Each guest should try to have their own ticket on their own phone. Remember, screenshots won’t work so don’t try it!
Outside of Ohio Stadium, possession and consumption of alcohol are subject to the laws and regulations of the State of Ohio and/or City of Columbus which state, among others: No person shall have in the person’s possession an opened container of beer or intoxicating liquor in any public place.
Alcoholic beverages are NOT permitted to be brought into Ohio Stadium.
Law Enforcement Officers enforce all applicable laws. Complete State of Ohio and The Ohio State University alcohol policies can be found below:
State of Ohio Alcohol Policy and The Ohio State University Alcohol Policies
Alcohol sales are offered inside Ohio Stadium. The following items are important to note in regards to alcohol sales:
Ohio Stadium and Levy Restaurants work hard to promote responsible consumption of alcoholic beverages by following the TEAM (Techniques for Effective Alcohol Management) Program.
Animals, except trained service dogs or miniature horses, are not permitted into Ohio Stadium.
Service Dogs in Training are recognized by the Ohio Revised Code and are permitted into Ohio Stadium. Service dogs in training must have a liability insurance policy provided by the non-profit agency sponsoring the training and be under control. Typically, puppy rearing (under six months of age) focused on socialization and general obedience training is not considered Service Animal Training.
Emotional Support Animals may be permitted into Ohio State facilities as a reasonable accommodation. Requests must be reviewed by the University ADA Coordinator’s Office. Guests wishing to make a request for an Emotional Support Animal to an event should complete this Disability Needs Request Form at least two week prior to the event.
As a service to Ohio Stadium guests, limited complimentary vehicle assistance may be available in any campus parking lot or garage. Service is available before, during and up to one hour after any event. Please contact University Police at 614-292-2121 for assistance on game days.
Seeking autographs on footballs, helmets and jerseys is prohibited in the area near Gate 32 where football players depart Ohio Stadium after the football game. Seeking autographs on ANY items is prohibited on the property (and surrounding parking lots) of the Fawcett Center and the Woody Hayes Athletic Center. If an individual is seeking autographs in violation of this prohibition, they may be issued a warning by Department of Athletics’ personnel or the University Police Division. If, after receiving a warning, they are subsequently found in violation of this prohibition, they may be arrested and/or charged criminally.
Most of the restrooms in Ohio Stadium are equipped with diaper-changing tables. For private accommodations, guests can use specific family restrooms located near sections 9A, 11A, 12A, 20A, 23A, 33A, 37A, 38A, 23C, 24C and 19D. Guests may also visit the First Aid Stations located at 16A, 17A, 12B, 23C, 24C and 32A. Please view our bag policy on how to bring your items into the stadium.
Bags or purses of any size are NOT permitted in Ohio Stadium. Wallets and wristlets no larger than 5”x8”x1” are permitted. All items and persons entering Ohio Stadium are subject to security screening and inspection.
Guests entering with medical, dietary, or childcare needs must enter through the Steinbrenner Band Center Entrance (glass doors between Gates 10 & 12) or at the Press Entrance (glass doors between the Huntington Club and Gate 23) to have their items inspected. One 14”x14”x4” bag per person will be permitted.
Please conduct yourself in an appropriate manner. Our attitudes and actions not only reflect upon our individual character but also the character of our university as a whole. As Buckeyes, it is essential to initiate and foster a friendly and welcoming environment for all to portray our university with the pride and respect it deserves. While you cheer on our team, please keep these ideals in mind and prove Ohio State has the Best Fans in the Land. For more information, visit www.bestfans.osu.edu. Sportsmanship Council and Block O Six Points for the Season:
Recreation and Physical Activity Center is located at 337 West 17th Avenue, which is adjacent to the southeast corner of Ohio Stadium. Bikes racks are located on the east and west side of the building. These bike racks are open to the public, but are not monitored by staff.
A valet bicycle corral is located at southeast corner of Woody Hayes Drive and the Olentangy Trail. It operates like a coat check for bicycles and is staffed by volunteers who keep bikes secure until the end of football games.
“Pedal Instead” valet bicycle corral is located at south east corner of Woody Hayes Drive and the Olentangy River bike path. It operates like a coat check for bicycles and is staffed by volunteers who keep bikes secure until the end of football games. Franklinton Cycleworks and Remember Us Urban Scouts have partnered to provide the bike corral service this season. For more information on “Pedal Instead,” please contact: info@franklintoncycleworks.org.
From iconic meeting sites to large and spacious reception rooms, Ohio State Athletics offers a wide variety of unique venues that will provide a remarkable experience for you and your guest. Learn how Scarlet & Gray venues can bring your group together in a historic setting that has inspired champions and high achievers since 1870.
Go behind the scenes at the Ohio Stadium on a guided tour that takes you inside the storied history of Buckeye Football. Visit https://www.ohiostadiumtours.com/ to book your tour today!
If you would like to recognize outstanding service or you have an issue that needs to be addressed, you can either:
In case of an emergency, please contact the nearest law enforcement officer or usher directly.
Levy Restaurants is excited to offer fans this season a variety of game day options – from gluten-free (located at 19A) to in-house smoked BBQ (located at 15A), to fan favorites, such as hot dogs, bratwurst, popcorn, pretzels and nachos (offered at stands throughout the stadium), there is something for everyone!
Alcohol sales are offered inside Ohio Stadium. The following items are important to note in regards to alcohol sales:
A courtesy cup of water may be requested at any permanent concession stand. Guests with special medical or dietary needs, please see “Permitted Items” section below.
All parking lots/garages, the ticket office, concessions locations, and merchandise stands will be cashless. All major credit cards and Apple Pay/Google Pay will be accepted at these locations.
On game day, select streets on and around campus become one way. Do NOT rely upon GPS or Navigation devices to get you to Ohio Stadium. Upon completion of the game, the traffic patterns will be reversed. Traffic control officers will direct you. Guests with parking passes must follow the directions on their reverse side of their parking pass.
Campus may be accessed from exits on SR-315 north and south and I-71 north and south. Please note along these routes for available exits as exit availability may be adjusted due to construction.
Please Note:
Through your My Ohio State Buckeyes Account, you will have 24-hour access to manage your tickets free of charge! Using your My Ohio State Buckeyes Account, you can:
Click here to access the entire Ohio State Digital Ticketing Guide
Click here for full Ohio Stadium ADA Information
Guests with disabilities can click on the above link for more information and to learn how to request all types of services provided for guests with disabilities.
If you are looking for handicap accessible seating, we encourage you to purchase handicap accessible seats early or make a ticket exchanges in advance of the game, when possible. Advanced exchanges are done at the Athletics Ticket Office located at the Schottenstein Center. If you cannot make the physical exchange in person in advance, then on gameday, you can enter the stadium with your current seats and go to the Ticketing Services windows in Ohio Stadium located at 5A to make the ticket exchange, pending the current availability.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), has classified airspace above Ohio Stadium as National Defense Airspace. A Temporary Flight Restriction (TFR) is in effect one hour before each home football game starts and continues until one hour after the end of the games. All aircraft operations, including parachute jumping, unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) and remote controlled aircraft such as drones, are prohibited within three miles up to and including 3,000 ft AGL of Ohio Stadium.
Pilots who violate the TFR are subject to criminal penalties under 49 USC 46307 and may be intercepted, detained and interviewed by law enforcement personnel. Operators of UAS’s/drones are subject to Notice to Airman (NOTAM) 4/3621 and applicable FAA regulations. Criminal charges may apply such as reckless endangerment, trespass, assault, and violating the TFR.
Public Elevators are located in the following areas of Ohio Stadium:
To contact a person at the game in the event of an emergency, please see your nearest usher. If the situation can be addressed and resolved, the stadium event staff will attempt to deliver that necessary message. However, using the public address system for paging within the Stadium is reserved only for extreme emergencies.
In the event of a serious emergency, all Event Staff, Redcoats, Ushers, Law Enforcement and Fire personnel are available to assist guests, including those with disabilities. Information will also be provided over the public address system and on stadium televisions and scoreboards.
First aid stations are located throughout Ohio Stadium at 16A, 17A, 12B, 23C, 24C and 32A. These stations are staffed with Columbus Fire paramedics and American Red Cross volunteers two hours prior to kickoff and will remain open for 20 minutes after the game. Over the counter medications such as Tylenol and Advil are available outside each first aid room in a self-dispensing vending machine for $1 per item.
Weapons are not permitted in the arena/stadium. Possession of a firearm or weapon is strictly forbidden. Possession of a weapon will result in immediate confiscation, ejection and/or possible arrest. Off-duty law enforcement: click here for concealed-carry policy
Roving Staff will sell game programs outside Ohio Stadium by circulating through the parking lots, sidewalks, and tailgating areas. Inside Ohio Stadium, game programs will be sold at the concession stand locations throughout the stadium. All game programs will be sold via credit card or Apple Pay/Google Pay.
AKRON GAMEDAY SCHEDULE
5:00am – Parking Lots & Garages Open
3:30pm – Skull Session Doors Open
4:30pm – FanFest Opens on the St. John Arena Lawn
5:30pm – Skull Session Begins
5:30pm – Stadium Gates Open
7:15pm – Band Ramp Entrance
7:30pm – KICKOFF
Ohio Stadium gates will open two hours prior to kickoff. St. John Arena doors will open four hours prior to kickoff for The Ohio State University Marching Band’s Skull Session.
Guest Services booths are located near Gate 13, Gate 14 and near sections 5A, 38A, 2B, 5C and 6C. The friendly and knowledgeable staff members are available to assist our guests with potential questions, comments or concerns. These booths are open from gate opening until 20 minutes after the game. Our Guest Service Booth staff members are in place to help ensure our guests receive outstanding customer service at Ohio Stadium.
Lost and Found is located on the concourse at Section 5A and remains open for 30 minutes after the game or show. If you need to try to find your item after the event has ended and you have left, submit a Lost Item Report and we will try to match it up with the items that were found/logged. Reports will be viewed on the next business day (i.e. the facility is closed on Sundays following a game and staff are not available to assist). Found items that have been matched to your lost item report will be mailed/shipped directly to you. Guests are responsible for the mailing/shipping fee. Ohio Stadium is not open on a daily basis with any public business hours. To search for a lost item, please report it by submitting a Lost Item Report.
Guests with children at the game are encouraged to visit the Guest Services booths located near Gate 13, Gate 14 and near sections 5A, 38A, 2B, 5C and 6C to obtain a wristband for their children. An emergency name and phone number can be put on the wristband that would be used in the case of a lost person.
Any report of a lost person will be acted on immediately by event personnel to locate and return the person to his or her parent(s), guardian(s) or companion(s). Guests should contact any Law Enforcement Officer, Redcoat, Usher or Event Staff for prompt initiation of lost person search procedures. If a parent, guardian or companion is not located, the lost person will be taken to the Police Room located near the elevators near Section 17A for further efforts in locating the parent(s), guardian(s) or companion(s).
If assistance is needed in the stands, please contact the nearest Red Coat, Usher, Concession Worker, Law Enforcement Officer, Columbus Fire Department Paramedic, Red Cross volunteer or go to the nearest First Aid Room.
Authentic Buckeye merchandise may be purchased throughout the Stadium. The Official Team Shops are located at Section 11A, 12A, 16A, 23A, 24A, 16C, in the south stands and in the Huntington Club. For additional merchandise selection, visit www.gobuckeyes.com.
The Ohio State University Marching Band plays the National Anthem part of their popular pre-game show, which includes the famous ramp entrance.
A new Nursing Mother’s Room has been opened for the season! Guests may visit the Nursing Mother’s Room located near the North Rotunda. The space is located at the top of the A concourse stairs, on the western side of the North Rotunda. A bathroom is available in this space, next to the Nursing Mother’s Room. Parents/Nursing Mother’s are permitted to bring in supplies/equipment/bags during the event. Guests entering with medical, dietary, or childcare needs must enter through the Steinbrenner Band Center Entrance (glass doors between Gates 10 & 12) or at the Press Entrance (glass doors between the Huntington Club and Gate 23) to have their items inspected.
2021 Ohio State Gameday Parking Map
2021 Ohio State Gameday Parking Athletic Permit Map
2021 Ohio State Gameday Parking Permit Zones Map
2021 Ohio State Gameday Accessible Parking Map
NEW: Turn-by-Turn Instructions
CLICK TO WATCH A DETAILED VIDEO OF ALL THE CHANGES
DAY OF GAME LOTS: Parking is available day of game on a first-come, first-served basis. The charge for these lots and garages is $20. All lots and garages are cashless – only credit cards will be accepted. Those holding current valid Ohio State Parking Permits (A, B, C, etc.) may park in these lots free of charge by showing your annual CampusParc Event Access Keycard. Shuttle service to Ohio Stadium is available free of charge for guests who park on the west campus Carmack Lots (parking lots west of SR 315). Check out the information listed below under “Shuttle Services”. Other policies include:
DISABILITY LOTS: Disability Parking will be located in the lots north of St. John Arena along Lane Avenue and in the adjacent Lane Avenue Garage. The charge for these lots is $20. All Day of Game Lots, including the disability lot, open at 5:00am on gameday. These areas will both be accessible, while space is available, from the Lane Avenue entrance. A current state issued disability placard (from any state), along with registration, and the person who owns the placard must be in the vehicle to enter the parking area. Officers may validate ownership of the placard at any time.
A shuttle will transport guests from the disability parking lots to the east side of Ohio Stadium near Gate 22. This shuttle will operate from six hours prior to kickoff until one hour after the game.
SEASON PERMIT LOTS: These lots are reserved for those who have purchased a season parking permit. All Day of Game Lots open at 5:00am on gameday. Spaces in these lots are held for permit holders until 90 minutes prior to kickoff.
RV PARKING: All RV parking on The Ohio State University campus is sold in advance of game day through the Athletic Department website at ohiostatebuckeyes.com. The Season RV Parking Lot, which is located next to Bill Davis Stadium, is reserved for season ticket holders only. Passes for the Day of Game RV Parking Lot, which is located on Fred Taylor Drive across the street from Jesse Owens Memorial Stadium, must be purchased in advance of game day.
SHUTTLE SERVICES: Shuttle service to Ohio Stadium is available free of charge from 6 hours prior until 1 hour after the game.
Due to heavy construction around the west campus Carmack Lots and near the School of Veterinary Medicine, the west campus shuttle will be altering its pickup location, dropoff location and routing for the 2021 season!
All items and persons entering Ohio Stadium are subject to security screening and inspection via a walk through metal detector and/or a hand wand metal detector. Check out the ‘Security Screening’ section below for more information.
Guests may not enter the playing field at any time. VIOLATORS ARE SUBJECT TO ARREST AND MAY BE PROSECUTED.
The following expectations have been established regarding behavior & fan conduct:
The event staff has been trained to intervene where necessary to help ensure that the above expectations are met. Guests are encouraged to report any inappropriate behavior to the nearest event staff member.
Examples of prohibited behavior include, but are not limited to: throwing objects of any kind; demonstrating unruly behavior; attempting to enter the field of play; engaging in behavior that endangers the safety of student athletes, coaches, officials or other guests; attempting to climb the goal posts; removing Ohio Stadium turf; and/or taunting event staff, visiting teams and/or public safety officials. Nudity is not allowed, and all patrons must be attired in accordance with all state and local laws governing liquor permit premises.
Guests that do not adhere to stadium policies, the Code of Conduct, those exhibiting prohibited behavior, those that violate policies on multiple occasions, are subject to the following consequences: seat relocation, loss of ticket buying privileges, ejection from the facility without refund, letter of warning, and/or arrest. Students involved in such activities or other disruptive behavior will also be subject to disciplinary action through The Ohio State University Student Code of Conduct. The University reserves the right to not enforce, within the sole discretion of the University, prohibited behaviors based on the interests of public safety, operational or staffing considerations or any other consideration.
As a general rule, any items that obstruct the view of other guests or that can be used as projectiles, that interfere with the comfort of other guests or are deemed inappropriate/hazardous by stadium security are prohibited.
All items and persons entering Ohio Stadium are subject to security screening and inspection via a walk through metal detector and/or a hand wand metal detector. An inspection of your person, parcels, bags, and clothing capable of concealing prohibited items may be inspected. Guests may refuse inspections but management reserves the right to refuse entry. Guests that are found with prohibited items are subject to Ohio Law and/or ejection from the stadium. Changes in national, regional and campus security levels may affect security procedures. Check out the ‘Security Screening’ section below for more information.
Bags or purses of any size are NOT permitted in Ohio Stadium. Wallets, wristlets, or clutch no larger than 5 in. x 8 in. x 1 in. are permitted. Guests entering with medical or child care needs must enter through the Steinbrenner Band Center entrance (between Gate 10 & 12) or at the Press Entrance (between the Huntington Club and Gate 23) to have their items inspected. Ohio Stadium Bag Policy
The following items are NOT permitted to be brought into Ohio Stadium:
Special announcements on the public address system are limited to medical and police emergencies.
Taxi and Rideshare services are available along Borror Drive near the Schottenstein Center. Guests are advised to walk to this location after the evet and then summon a taxi or rideshare vehicles so it properly records your pickup location.
Fans have access to COTA’s fixed-route bus service on game day. Lines 1, 2, 8, 22, 31, and 102 all serve the Ohio State campus with most providing service every 15-30mins or better. Visit COTA.com or download the Transit App to plan your trip today!
The COTA Gameday specific transportation service from the fairgrounds and Crosswoods Park & Ride is suspended for the 2021 season. Contact COTA for information of remaining service available on gameday.
The flagship station for Ohio State football games is WBNS Radio 1460/97.1 the Fan.
Guests will NOT be permitted to re-enter Ohio Stadium once they leave.
Seatback chairs are available to be rented in advance of game day on a season basis only. To order a seatback chair, please contact 866-910-9290 or www.buckeyeseat.com. If you need a repair to your currently installed Seatback Chair, you may visit the Seatback Chair Help Stations inside the stadium at 22A, 13A, 2B, 29C, and 30C or call 866-910-9290.
Seat Cushions (foam and without backs, zippers, or storage slots) are allowed to be brought into the stadium. Guests demonstrating specific medical needs for personal Seatback chairs may enter the Stadium with a doctor’s note at the Band Center entrance (between Gate 10 & 12) or at the Press Entrance (between the Huntington Club and Gate 23) to have their items inspected. Please visit the Prohibited Items area of this page for more information on personal Seatback chairs.
All items and persons entering Ohio Stadium are subject to security screening and inspection via a walk through metal detector and/or a hand wand metal detector. Arrive to Ohio Stadium early in order to avoid lines and delays getting into Ohio Stadium. If you wait – you will be late!
Using the latest screening technologies, guests will not need to remove any items from their person as they pass through, like your wallet, keys, or phone. Unlike the airports or other venues you have visited, you can keep everything on you. Your wristlet or clutch will also be carried right through the metal detector. Remember, we have a No Bag Policy at Ohio Stadium.
If you alarm when passing through the metal detector, the security staff member will conduct a secondary screening using a handheld metal detector wand. If you are still alarming, a police officer may be summoned to assist with the security screening.
Guests may refuse inspections but management reserves the right to refuse entry. Guests that are found with prohibited items are subject to Ohio Law and/or ejection from the stadium. Cooperation with game management and security personnel will help maintain Ohio Stadium as a safe and secure environment for all guests.
Weapons are not permitted in the arena/stadium. Possession of a firearm or weapon is strictly forbidden. Possession of a weapon will result in immediate confiscation, ejection and/or possible arrest.
Generally, all persons may pass through the Walk Through Medical Detectors. The walk through metal detectors comply with regulations relating to pacemakers, defibrillators, or other vital support systems; and pregnant women. The electromagnetic field emitted by CEIA (manufacturer of our metal detectors) devices is extremely weak, with amplitude comparable with that of the earth magnetic field. However, CEIA cannot exclude that this screening device may affect personal medical electronic devices, depending on their functionality or their restrictions on use. Any recommendation or directive issued by medical personnel or medical equipment manufacturers relating to electromagnetic fields must therefore be implemented. If you are unable to pass through the metal detector, let the event staff know and they will perform an alternative screening using a hand-held metal detector wand.
Off-duty, sworn law enforcement officials employed full-time by The Ohio State University Police Division, the City of Columbus Division of Police, Franklin County Sheriff’s Office or the Ohio State Highway Patrol, who are in compliance with all applicable legal requirements, are permitted to carry a concealed firearm on all university property located within the jurisdiction of their home agency. All other law enforcement officers employed by state and local agencies within the State of Ohio are only permitted to carry concealed while off-duty in campus establishments that serve the public (e.g., Ohio Stadium, Schottenstein Center, Ohio Union). State and local officers employed by agencies within the State of Ohio will be required to check in with Law Enforcement at the Press Entrance (near Gate 23). Off-duty officers are not permitted to enter through any other gate. Officers will be required to present their agency ID card and admission ticket at that gate. All other off-duty law enforcement are not permitted to carry a firearm inside the venue.
With more than 100,000 fans heading down to the stadium on gameday, we all need to look out for our fellow Buckeyes while walking, biking and driving.
A Scooter Parking Zone can be found at the RPAC Tennis Courts to the South of Ohio Stadium. This area will open 4 hours prior to kickoff and close 1 hour after kickoff.
Please be aware of the increasing scooter traffic on campus. Motorized scooter users must follow all applicable state and local laws, ordinances and university policies. The university recently published motorized scooter safety guidelines. We encourage you to familiarize yourself with these guidelines.
Pedestrian traffic is extremely heavy around campus on gameday, especially near Ohio Stadium. Riding a scooter in heavy pedestrian traffic should be avoided – remember to maintain a three-foot minimum distance from pedestrians. All vehicles, including scooters, are subject to security screening and inspection as you near Ohio Stadium. Like bicycles, scooters may not be ridden/parked inside or outside of Ohio Stadium near its gates. Please make sure to follow these additional guidelines:
Due to heavy construction around the west campus Carmack Lots and near the School of Veterinary Medicine, the west campus shuttle will be altering its pickup location, dropoff location and routing for the 2021 season!
Skull Session originally served as a final music rehearsal for the band prior to their performance on the field, but has evolved into one of the most anticipated game day traditions at The Ohio State University. Doors to St. John Arena open four hours prior to kickoff. The event is free, with seating on a first-come, first-served basis.
The band marches over to St. John two hours and twenty minutes before kickoff and bursts into the arena to the sound of the ramp cadences. After a few short cheers from each section, the band takes their seats to play “Fanfare for a New Era” as the football team arrives. Coach Ryan Day and one of the players each speak briefly to the fans before they depart for the locker rooms.
The band then performs a final musical run-through of its pregame and halftime shows, previewing the exciting soundtrack the band will be providing in The ‘Shoe that day. Before exiting St. John, the band strikes up “Across the Field” one more time to hype up the fans as they go to cheer on the Buckeyes.
SKUL SESSION POLICIES:
All persons entering Skull Session/St. John Arena are subject to security screening and inspection via a walk through metal detector and/or a hand wand metal detector. Arrive to Skull Session early in order to avoid lines and delays getting into the arena. If you wait – you will be late! No Bags will be permitted into the arena. Only wristlets/wallets no larger than 5x8x1 are allowed. Visit http://ohiostatebuckeyes.com/gameday/#securityscreening for information related to metal detection.
The following items are NOT permitted to be brought into St. John Arena:
The use of all types of tobacco products (including and not limited to, cigarettes, electronic cigarettes, cigars and cigarillos, hookah smoked products, pipes, oral tobacco and nasal tobacco) is prohibited in all university buildings and on all university-owned properties, including parking lots, garages, and all outside areas. This also includes any product intended to mimic tobacco products, contain tobacco flavoring, or deliver nicotine other than for the purpose of cessation.
The Ohio State University and University Housing complies with Drug-Free Communities and Schools Act (DFSCA) (20 U.S.C. 1011i; 34 C.F.R. part 86) as well as Drug Free Workplace Act which requires a drug-free environment on campus. Though medical marijuana is legalized under Ohio law, marijuana (including medical marijuana) remains illegal under federal law and is categorized as an illicit substance. Because of this, the possession, use, storage, and cultivation of marijuana and medical marijuana (regardless of its form, including but not limited to: oils, tinctures, plant material, edibles or patches) by students, faculty, staff, and visitors remains prohibited on all University property.
Resale of tickets, setting up a promotional space and/or distributing banners, booklets, business cards, circulars, commercial advertising, flyers, folders, handbills, leaflets, notices, pamphlets, posters, stickers, or any other written, printed and/or painted materials in or around Ohio Stadium without the permission of The Ohio State University Department of Athletics is prohibited.
Check out the all new Buckeye Park by Tailgate Club! Buckeye Park by Tailgate Club offers full service, customizable tailgate packages to suit your unique game day needs, catering options to make meals a breeze, and a prime reserved tailgate on the Southwest Plaza of the Schottenstein Center – right along Lane Avenue and only steps from Ohio Stadium!
Possession and consumption of alcohol are subject to the laws and regulations of the State of Ohio and/or City of Columbus which state, among others: No person shall have in the person’s possession an opened container of beer or intoxicating liquor in any public place.
Law Enforcement Officers enforce all applicable laws.
Complete State of Ohio and The Ohio State University Alcohol Policies can be found by clicking on the appropriate links.
Guests without football parking permits who are interested in setting up a tailgate should plan to set up those tailgates in any Day-of-Game Parking Lot, including the Disability Parking Lots. Day-of-game parking spaces are available at 5am on the day of the game on a first-come, first-served basis. Season permit parking spaces and RV parking spaces are reserved for those who have purchased a parking permit. Information about obtaining a parking permit can be found by contacting the Athletics Ticket Office at 1-800-GO-BUCKS.
Trailers, storage units, and tailgating activities may not take up vacant parking spaces, vehicle unloading spaces, crosswalks or interfere with traffic flow within a parking lot. Drive lanes in parking lots must be maintained at all times. Parking permit holders are responsible for the functions they host in their parking spaces. Vehicle and tailgate must fit within the 8.5′ x 15′ space provided. Any vehicles larger than the above will be asked to purchase an RV pass or park at the Ohio State Fairgrounds.
No tents/fencing requiring staking may be set up without prior approval from the University. It is recommended that expandable 10×10 “pop-up” tents be used when possible. Tents may be set up NO EARLIER than 5:00pm on the Thursday prior to a home football game in grass areas around campus. Tents may not be erected inside parking lots until after 5:00am on gamedays. Tents must be removed by NOON on the day after the home football (Sunday).
Guests who are interested in setting up tents or inflatables and grilling at their tailgate should adhere to the OSU Emergency Management and Fire Prevention Policies. No charcoal grilling is permitted on the Ohio State University campus with the exception of designated locations. Liquid propane grills are permitted on campus as long as the following safety protocols listed here: OSU Emergency Management and Fire Prevention Tent & Grilling Policies. Open burning, including but not limited to fire pits, fire rings, stoves, or chimneys, are not allowed on campus, nor within the City of Columbus.
No bills, signs, banners or tent frames may be attached to University furniture, trees, or light poles. Freestanding signs must be secure and safe, and be no larger than 4 by 4 feet. No signs causing ground penetration are permitted without prior approval.
Canvassing (including but not limited to product sampling, flyering, coupon distribution, etc. ), solicitation of funds, sales of products/subscriptions are prohibited on the university campuses or in university buildings.
Personal/single Port-A-Johns may be delivered no sooner than Thursday at 4:00pm prior to a home game. Typically, your vendor will place them in an area that won’t disrupt daily operations. On Saturday mornings, you will have to push/move it into your tailgating location. It must fit within your parking space OR may go into a “dead” space that is not utilized for gameday parking. All portable toilets must be removed on Sunday. The University does not require the use of a certain portable toilet vendor.
ALL MOBILE TICKETS
All game tickets will now be issued digitally to your smartphone! This means that your phone is your ticket into the game. Download the Ohio State Buckeyes App, login to your ticketing account, and pull up your game tickets to enter! You can check out this video which will walk you through pulling up your digital tickets on your phone. Remember these tips:
GENERAL POLICIES
DISCOUNTED TICKETS
The Athletic Council and Department of Athletics believe it is important that discounted tickets be used by the original purchaser or by someone within the same category, and, in principle, access to athletic event tickets at a discounted price is a privilege extended to members of the university community. This privilege does not entitle anyone to abuse the ticket policy by scalping or misusing tickets they purchase.
GENERAL PUBLIC WILL CALL TICKETS
General public will call tickets may be picked up at the Athletics Ticket Office in the Schottenstein Center during normal business hours (Monday-Friday, 8:00am-5:00pm). On game day, will call is located at Gate 5 near the northwest corner of the stadium and opens 4 hours prior to kick off. Proper photo ID is required for pick-up.
PLAYER GUEST WILL CALL TICKETS
The Ohio State Player Guest Will Call is located at the Ohio Stadium Ticket Office at Gate 5. This area opens two hours prior to kickoff and will remain open until the end of the first half. Individuals receiving tickets from players must show proper ID and immediately enter the stadium. Visiting Team Will Call is located at Gate 6 on the northeast corner of Ohio Stadium. The Visiting Team Will Call is located at Gate 6 on the northeast corner of Ohio Stadium.
RECRUIT TICKETS
Football recruits must enter Ohio Stadium through the Recruit Room at the southeast tower between Gates 26 and 32. The Recruit Room will remain open until the end of the first half. Non-football recruits must enter at the Ohio Stadium Ticket Office at Gate 5. Individuals receiving recruit tickets must show proper ID and immediately enter the stadium.
LAP TICKET POLICY
Ohio State University adheres to the Big Ten Conference policy of requiring that all guests, regardless of age, must present a valid ticket for entrance into football, men’s basketball, and men’s ice hockey games. Fans wishing to bring small children (under the age of 2) to any of these events may purchase a lap ticket at a discounted rate for their infant. This ticket will allow the infant to enter the venue but that child must sit on their parent/guardian’s lap. If a seat must be occupied by the child and/or a carrier, then a regular ticket must be purchased. Lap tickets are only available on game/event day and can be purchased at the Gate 5 ticket office at Ohio Stadium. Only children UNDER age 2 are eligible for the lap ticket discount
CAN I LOSE MY TICKET PRIVILEGES?
Yes, you may lose your ticket privileges if you have engaged in conduct that is determined, by either OSU or the NCAA, to be in violation of any NCAA rule or if, in OSU’s reasonable discretion, you have otherwise taken any action that jeopardizes the eligibility of OSU’s programs or its student-athletes.
Go behind the scenes at the Ohio Stadium on a private, guided tour that takes you inside the storied history of Buckeye Football. During a tour of Ohio Stadium, you will have an exclusive look at some of the most treasured spaces in Ohio Stadium.
Click here for full information on booking a tour of Ohio Stadium.
Guests should contact the nearest Usher or Redcoat for assistance in seating locations, medical emergencies, or for anything else that might make the visit more enjoyable.
Courtesy cups can be obtained by visiting any concession stand or first aid stand. The self-service soda machines are equipped with a water dispenser to fill your courtesy cups.
The safety of our fans and visitors is our number one priority and The Ohio State University Department of Athletics is prepared to communicate with fans when inclement weather interferes with events at Ohio Stadium.
Please visit emergency.osu.edu or follow Ohio State’s Emergency Management Twitter or Facebook accounts for official safety and game day weather-related information. For general game-day updates, fans are advised to follow the official social media channels for the Ohio State department of athletics: @OhioStAthletics on Twitter and Facebook.com/Buckeyes. Fans can also listen to Flagship station 97.1 FM The Fan for up-to-date news and information.
Umbrellas
Guests may carry umbrellas into Ohio Stadium for use before and after the game, but umbrellas are NOT permitted to be opened in the seating areas of Ohio Stadium
The most important message in advance of any kind of weather situation is for fans to listen to instructions from law enforcement officers and Public Safety personnel. Parking lot attendants will share details, when possible, as fans arrive. Once inside Ohio Stadium, please listen to the announcements over the public address system and to the instructions of the redcoats and ushers in their section of the stadium.
Ohio State monitors weather and has policies and procedures in place but each situation is different. The most likely scenario in an inclement weather situation is for fans to Shelter in Place. If inside the stadium, this often means leaving the open-seating area and taking shelter on the concourse, however, we advise everyone to follow the instructions given at the time.
We do not advise fans to leave Ohio Stadium during an inclement weather situation, however, fans that choose to do so will be allowed to re-enter with their ticket stubs. Those not already inside Ohio Stadium may opt to take cover in their cars or inside French Field House, St. John Arena or other open facilities.
Ohio Stadium does offer a complimentary wheelchair service inside our facility. Once you enter a gate to Ohio Stadium, you can summon a nearby Redcoat or Usher and ask for a wheelchair escort. A staff member will pickup the person needing the escort at the gate and take them to their seat. At the end of the game/concert or when you wish to leave, simply ask a nearby Usher for a wheelchair pickup. A staff member will take you from your seat to a gate. Our wheelchair staff members are unable to go outside Ohio Stadium to pickup or drop off guests.
Texting with friends and family, posting on social media and surfing the web now is available to fans inside Ohio Stadium with the newly installed osuFanWifi. Fans can access the stadium WiFi in the following methods:
iPhone Steps
*There is no passcode to access osuFanWiFi
Android Steps
*There is no passcode to access osuFanWiFi
If you are experiencing difficulty with osuFanWiFi, please email ATH-OSUFanWiFi@osu.edu for assistance.
For more on Ohio Stadium WiFi, please visit go.osu.edu/TheShoe_Wifi_Info
To follow along the most up-to-date stats, live audio and an in-game photo gallery, visit OhioStateBuckeyes.com/gameday-live
