Ohio Stadium A-Z Guide
Alcohol Policy
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:
- Guests possessing alcohol who do not have proof of being at least 21 years of age or guests passing alcohol to minors will be ejected and are subject to arrest.
- A maximum of two alcoholic beverages will be sold per person/at one time (depending on the event).
- Guests who appear younger than thirty-five (35) will be asked to show positive identification prior to being served. Acceptable forms of identification are:
- Any state’s driver’s license
- A state of Ohio identification card, or the “equivalent” from another state
- A US Department of Defense military ID card
- A United States or foreign passport, that displays a picture of the individual for whom the license, card, or passport was issued and shows that the person buying was then at least twenty-one years of age
- Guests are not permitted to bring alcoholic beverages into the facility; nor are they permitted to leave the facility with alcohol.
- • Alcohol sales will end at the end of the third quarter (Q3). If deemed necessary, alcohol sales may be cut off at any time. The facility reserves the right to refuse the sale of alcohol to any guest.
- A designated driver program will be offered, which allows the designated driver to get a wristband and receive complimentary soft drinks during the event. The program is available at the Guest Services Booths near 13A, 14A, 5A, 36A, 2B, 5C, 6C, and the Huntington Club for more info).
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: Pets, Service Animals, ESAs
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.
Age Needing Ticket
For all Athletics events, infants under the age of 2 (those not having their second birthday) are admitted free, but must sit on an adult's lap at all times. Infants (& any belongings) that are not able to remain on their parent’s lap and encroach on another seat, will be required to purchase a ticket/seat for the infant.
Auto Assistance
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.
Baby Changing
Some 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 childcare items into the stadium.
Best Fans in the Land
BUCKEYE NATION, BE THE BEST FANS IN THE LAND!
Gracious in victory AND defeat
One Community
Behave like Champions
Uphold Traditions
Create memorable moments
Keep the standard of Excellence
Show respect to all
Bike Parking
A complimentary bike valet is located on Woody Hayes Drive, just east of the Woody Hayes Bridge. This bike valet is adjacent to the Olentangy River Trail. Bicyclists are provided with a “claim check” and can retrieve their bicycles after the game.
Additional bike corrals (unstaffed) are available at the RPAC building south of Ohio Stadium.
Booking Events in Ohio Stadium
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!
Camera Policy
Still cameras with a lens greater than 100mm, any audio or video recording equipment, monopods, dual pods and tripods are prohibited and may not be brought into Ohio Stadium. Images you take are for personal use only and may not be used for any commercial purposes and may not be re-sold without the express consent of The Ohio State University or the Big Ten Conference. Guests found to be using images for any commercial purpose or found to be re-selling pictures will be asked by The Ohio State University to cease and desist from using the images for commercial purposes which may be against NCAA bylaws.
Comments/Concerns/Text Messaging
If you would like to recognize outstanding service or you have an issue that needs to be addressed, you can either:
Fill out a comment card or guest incident report which may be obtained at Guest Services Booths at Gate 13, Gate 14, 5A, 6C, 7C, 2B, or 38A.
Text Stadium Operations during an event at 845-SAFE-FAN (this text line is not operation outside of event times)
Contact the Department of Athletics Event Management Team by email at hoon.6@osu.edu.
In case of an emergency, please contact the nearest law enforcement officer or Redcoat directly.
Concessions & Mobile Ordering
Levy Restaurants is excited to offer fans this season a variety of game day options – from fan favorites, such as hot dogs, bratwurst, popcorn, pretzels and nachos, to local fare like Hot Chicken Takeover and Dirty Franks, there is something for everyone!
All concession locations are cashless! Locations will accept credit/debit cards and smartphone payments. Skip the line and order your food on the Ohio State Buckeyes App! Mobile ordering is available at all permanent stand locations (not portable carts on the concourse). Our average order ready time is about 3 minutes!
Click here for the 2024 Ohio Stadium Concession Locator Guide.
Credit Cards/Cashless Payments
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.
Designated Driver Program
A designated driver program is available which allows your designated driver to get a wristband and receive complimentary soft drinks during Ohio State events. The program is available at Guest Services locations inside Ohio Stadium and the Schottenstein Center.
Digital Ticketing Guide
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:
- Renew and purchase tickets to your favorite Ohio State sporting events
- View your ticket(s) on your mobile device
- Transfer your ticket(s) to family and friends
- Safely and securely sell your ticket(s) through Buckeyes
- TicketExchange
- Edit your account contact information
- Pay invoices
Click here to access the entire Ohio State Digital Ticketing Guide
Directions
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:
- Directions given on GPS systems may not be accurate on game days.
- Please view our Turn-by-Turn directions for additional details.
Disability Needs
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 by contacting the Athletics Ticket Office by completing a Disability Needs Request Form online. 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 at the time of your exchange.
Drones/Airplanes
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 during any and all TFRs. 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.
In addition, the University restricts the use of UAS and Drone Flights outside of the imposed Temporary Flight Restriction (TFR) period. Strict policies and request process are in place regarding UAS flights on campus.
Elevators
Any guest may use the elevators to access the decks they need. No special pass is required in order to use these public elevators. Elevators are located in the following areas of Ohio Stadium:
- Four elevators are located on the west side of the stadium between gates 17-23 which provide access to the Club Levels, and to seating on D-Deck. These elevators do not access C-Deck.
- Two elevators are located near section 7 that access B and C decks.
- Two elevators are located near section 10 that access B and C decks.
- One elevator is located in the south stadium near gate 39 and only provides access to seats in south stadium A and B levels.
Emergencies
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.
All guests are encouraged to signup for Gameday Alerts, a free texting service that will alert you to Traffic & Parking Updates, Weather Information, and Emergency Alerts. Gameday Alerts is a non-marketing alert system used to keep guests safe on gamedays!
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.
Click here for additional emergency preparedness information for Ohio Stadium.
First Aid Stations
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 30 minutes after the game. Over the counter medications such as Tylenol and Advil are available at most Team Shop locations.
Feminine Products
Ohio Stadium has partnered with Columbus-based company Aunt Flow to provide free period products in restrooms throughout the stadium. The free-vend dispensers are installed in female and employee restrooms. The dispensers are stocked with Aunt Flow’s 100% organic cotton tampons and pads free from dyes, or chemicals.
Firearms
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 off-duty law enforcement concealed-carry policy
Gate Entry & Opening Schedule
Ohio Stadium gates will open two hours prior to kickoff. All guests are advised to enter through the gate listed on your ticket, including student ticket holders, as it will be the most convenient entrance near your seating area. Additionally:
- Block O: Guests with Block O tickets must enter through Gate 34 to scan and receive a wristband.
- Medical Bags: Guests with medical bags must enter through the Band Entrance (near Gate 10) and Press Entrance (near Gate 23)
- Huntington Club/NetJets: Guests with premium level tickets should enter through the glass doors of the Huntington Club Lobby near Gate 17
Guest Services
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 at Ohio Stadium
Lost and Found is located at 5A Guest Services and remains open for 30 minutes after the event. If you need to try to find your item after the event has ended and you have left the facility, submit a Lost Item Report online 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. our facilities may be closed on the weekends). Found items that have been matched to your Lost Item Report will be mailed/shipped directly to you or can be held for pickup for 30 days following the event. Guests are responsible for the mailing/shipping fees. To search or report a lost item, please report it by submitting a Lost Item Report.
All items will be kept for 30 days following the event in which it was found. After that period, all unclaimed articles will be donated to area organizations or disposed of. If we have matched a found item to your Lost Item Report, you will have 30 days following the event where it was found to pick it up. After that period, your item will be discarded.
Items we will accept and hold: wallets and clutches, credit cards, IDs, electronics, keys, glasses, jewelry, jackets/outerwear
Items we will NOT accept and will discard immediately: Personal clothing (t-shirts, pants, hats, socks, gloves, etc.), weapons (knives, mace, etc.) umbrellas, flip flops and shoes, prescriptions drugs, tobacco or vaping supplies, personal care items (lotions, make-up, hair brushes, hair products, ear plugs)
Lost Persons/Child ID/Locater Program
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).
Merchandise
Authentic Buckeye merchandise may be purchased throughout the Stadium and also at FanFest. The Official Team Shops are located at Section 11A, 12A, 23A, 24A,21C, 22C, 39A in the south stands and in the Huntington Club.
A dedicated merchandise stand is located at 16A which features student-athlete jerseys and tees. Custom Ohio State jerseys can be ordered at any permanent location (11A, 12A, 23A, 24A) during the game and then picked up when ready at the 39A South Stands location as they are produced on-site.
The official Team Shop at the Schottenstein Center will open at 8:00am for all Noon kicks and 10:00am for all 3:30p or later kickoffs. The Team Shop is located on the North side of the Schottenstein Center facing the Jack Nicklaus Museum. Merchandise is also available at FanFest adjacent to St. John Arena. These locations open 3 hours prior to kickoff. For additional merchandise selection, visit www.gobuckeyes.com.
Mobility Devices
Mobility devices, including but not limited to canes, crutches, walkers, rollators, wheelchairs, scooters, etc. are permitted into Ohio Stadium. Guests may enter through any gate with a mobility device. The North Rotunda has stairs to get down to the main A-Deck concourse – please consider using another gate if you need to access A-Deck.
Storage of larger devices in the seating stands may difficult (unless you specifically have wheelchair accessible seats). Some items like crutches or canes could be stored under your seat. Larger devices may need to be stored elsewhere. Generally, first aid rooms have space to store items like walkers, rollators, and wheelchairs. You can stop by any First Aid Room and ask to store the item if you are not able to keep it in your possession at your seat. Be sure to mark your items with your name and phone number.
Do not leave or abandon your item in a public space – you risk having the item lost or stolen. The Ohio State University, the American Red Cross, and the Columbus Fire Department are not responsible for any lost, stolen, or damaged items. Please contact us with any questions you may have about mobility devices.
National Anthem
The Ohio State University Marching Band plays the National Anthem part of their popular pre-game show, which includes the famous ramp entrance.
No Bag Policy
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 Band Center doors (between Gate 10 & 12) or at the Press Entrance (between the Huntington Club and Gate 23) to have their bag inspected. All guests will pass through a metal detector upon entry to Ohio Stadium and their items and person will be inspected. One bag will be permitted for the guest in need - there is no specific size requirement for your medical needs but keep in mind it will be searched thoroughly. No written proof of medical need is required – you just need to declare the need at one of those two designated gates. One bag is permitted for these needs:
Dietary needs (single serving snacks/foods for medical needs, single serving dietary beverages, etc.)
Medical needs (medications, medical equipment, or medical supplies, etc.)
Childcare needs (diapers, formula/breastmilk, baby food, ice packs, baby bottles, breast pumps and supplies, etc.)
Nursing Mothers
A Nursing Mother’s Room is available at Ohio Stadium! 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 that they require for 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 your bag and items inspected. One bag is permitted per guest in need.
For all Athletics events, children age under 2 are admitted free, but must sit on an adult’s lap.
Playing Field
Guests may not enter the playing field at any time. VIOLATORS ARE SUBJECT TO ARREST AND MAY BE PROSECUTED.
Permitted Items
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.
- Binoculars (without a case)
- Blankets (unrolled or unbagged)
- Body worn baby carriers with child (including but not limited to wraps, slings, soft pack baby carrier, etc.)
- If entering with any sort of bag with childcare needs, please see Ohio Stadium Bag Policy or #11 below
- Bringing a baby under 2? Check out our Lap Ticket Policy
- Cameras (still) with a lens 100mm or less
- Coats (worn or carried)
- Mobility devices (including but not limited to canes, crutches, walkers, rollators, wheelchairs, scooters, etc.)
- For questions regarding Accessibility in Ohio Stadium, please visit our Athletics ADA webpage
- Rain apparel and ponchos (worn or carried)
- Seat cushions are permitted that are foam and do not have back supports, zippers, or storage slots
- Seatbacks are permitted for those with a doctor’s note and are 16? wide or less. Seatbacks may not have metal framing or clamp to a seat. Guests with a doctor’s note must enter through Band Center doors (between Gate 10 & 12) or at the Press Entrance (between the Huntington Club and Gate 23) to have their chairback and note inspected. Others wishing to use a seatback are available to be rented in advance of game day on a season basis only at www.buckeyeseat.com)
- Small radios with headphones
- Tablets
- One bag per person will be permitted for:
- Dietary or medical needs (medications, single serving snack for medical needs, etc.)
- Child care needs (diapers, formula, baby food, baby bottle, etc.)
- Guests entering with medical or child care needs must enter through the Band Center doors (between Gate 10 & 12) or at the Press Entrance (between the Huntington Club and Gate 23) to have their bag inspected.
- Ohio Stadium Bag Policy
- 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)
- Water bottles that are clear, plastic and empty
- Wallet, Wristlet, or Clutch (with or without strap) no larger than 5? x 8? x 1?. Click here for more information.
- Sunscreen (non-aerosol) can be carried in
Prohibited Behavior & Fan Code of Conduct
The following expectations have been established regarding behavior & fan conduct:
- Guests should be a positive role model for those around them. Guests will expect and encourage good displays of sportsmanship from fellow fans.
- Guests should conduct themselves in a manner that represents their University, their Conference, and the NCAA with honor, dignity, and respect. Guests shall not exhibit behavior that interferes with the enjoyment of the game or event by those around them.
- Guests should cheer positively for their team and refrain from taunting, threatening, vulgar, abusive, racist, sexist, or demeaning remarks or gestures directed towards the coaches, student-athletes, fans, staff and game officials. Threats include statements, actions and behaviors that could reasonably be foreseen as having a purpose to inflict physical harm, even if the person making the threat doesn’t have the ability to carry out the threat. State of Ohio Disorderly Conduct Law
- Guests shall comply with all facility policies.
- Guests should sit only in their ticketed seats and show their tickets when requested, should not stand on seats, should not stand in the aisles, should not enter the playing area and should not throw any items onto the playing area.
- Guests should follow all local, state, or federal laws and will follow the instructions of event staff. State of Ohio Open Container Policy
- Guests appearing intoxicated, inebriated or showing other signs of impairment related to alcohol consumption or drug use may be denied entry and may be subject to ejection. Intervention with an intoxicated or impaired guest will be handled in a prompt and safe manner.
- Guests should wear clothing without obscene or indecent messages. Guests will remove or cover up such clothing deemed offensive or obscene upon request.
- Guests should be responsible for their own conduct and the conduct of others who use their tickets.
- The Ohio State University and the Ohio State Athletic Department do not discriminate basis of age, ancestry, color, disability, ethnicity, gender, gender identity or expression, genetic information, HIV/AIDS status, military status, national origin, pregnancy, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, or protected veteran status, or any other bases under the law. The Ohio State Athletic Department is committed to adherence to this policy. Click here for more details.
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.
Prohibited Items
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:
- All Bags (including but not limited to backpacks, fanny packs, purses, string or ‘cinch’ bags, messenger bags, crossbody bags, camera bags, briefcases, grocery bags, roll bags, binocular cases, duffle bags or any other bags) Ohio Stadium Bag Policy
- Alcohol
- Animals (except service dogs for guests with disabilities)
- Audio or Video Recording Equipment including those that are attached to unmanned aircraft systems or model aircrafts.
- Banners, Flags and Signs
- Bicycles
- Cameras with a lens greater than 100mm (along with Monopods, Dual Pods and Tripods), including those that are attached to unmanned aircraft systems or model aircrafts.
- Chairs including Folding Chairs, Portable Chairs, Stools, Lawn Chairs
- Clothing with profane, inappropriate or abusive language
- Containers (common examples include but are not limited to hard sided coolers, soft pack coolers, ice chests, picnic baskets, cans, heavy plastic or glass bottles, thermoses)
- Confetti, streamers, glitter, balloons
- Drones (including but not limited to unmanned aircraft systems or model aircrafts.
- Firearms. 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
- Fireworks
- Food or beverages
- Illegal Drugs
- Inflatables (balls, balloons, etc.)
- Laptops and computers
- Laser pointers
- Markers (permanent) and/or paint
- Noisemaking devices (common examples include but are not limited to whistles, air horns, bull horns, blow horns, musical instruments, kazoos, bugles, cow bells, thunder sticks, sirens, milk jugs with rocks or coins, and steroes)
- Seat cushions that have back supports, zippers, or storage slots
- Sticks, Poles, Pipes or Selfie sticks
- Strollers and car-seat type baby carriers are not permitted. Body worn baby carriers with child (including but not limited to wraps, slings, soft pack baby carrier, etc.) are allowed.
- Signs
- Sports Equipment (common examples include but are not limited to balls, beach balls, footballs, baseballs, lacrosse balls, segways or other motorized scooters, skateboards, and roller blades)
- Televisions or video monitors
- Weapons or items that mimic weapons including but not limited to: (aerosol cans, mace, pepper spray, lighters, matches, firearms, including CCW permit holders, fireworks, pocket knives, knives, spiked bracelets, brass knuckles, martial arts weapons, stun guns, squirt guns, super soakers and chains) or any item deemed dangerous or inappropriate.
- Wrapped gifts, packages or items
Public Transportation / Rideshare
Taxi and Rideshare services are available along Borror Drive near the Schottenstein Center and at the intersection of 17th and Neil Avenue. When summoning a rideshare vehicle when in the area of Ohio Stadium on an event day, the rideshare app will require you to proceed to those pickup locations to meet your driver. Drivers will not be able to pick you up near Ohio Stadium on event days due to traffic patterns and security checkpoints.
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!
Radio Broadcasts
The flagship station for Ohio State football games is WBNS Radio 1460/97.1 the Fan.
Re-Entry
Guests will NOT be permitted to re-enter Ohio Stadium once they leave.
Restrooms
- Accessible restrooms are located near sections 8A, 9A, 10A, 11A, 17A, 18A, 19A, 28A, 33A, 34A, 37A, 38A, 3B, 12B, 28B, 7C, 10C, 11C, 13C, 14C, 15C, 19C, 20C, 23C, 28C, 29C, 17D, 19D, 25D.
- Family restrooms are located near sections 9A, 11A, 12A, 20A, 23A, 33A, 37A, 38A, 23C, 24C, 19D.
- Additional Family restrooms are located 16A, 17A, 23C, 24C and 32A.
RV Parking
RV Parking is available in the Gray Lots & Buckeye Lots near the Schottenstein Center. An RV Permit must be purchased in order to park in the RV Lots. Generally, RV Parking is only sold on a Season Permit basis. There may be some single game RV parking permits available. Click here to view any currently available single game RV parking options. All RVs, your tailgate equipment, and any other vehicle (towing vehicle or towed vehicle) must fit within the assigned space of approximately 40’x60’. RVs must exit the parking facilities no later than 10:00am on the Sunday following a game day. Check out our full tailgating policiesand here for full traffic & parking information.
Scooter Riding/Parking
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:
- Wear a helmet
- Never block pedestrian walkways or ADA access
- Stay off sidewalks
- Slow down to get around
Security Screenings
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. View the metal detector screening guide. 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.
Sensory Needs
Ohio Stadium is certified as Sensory Inclusive by KultureCity! Our event staff go through sensory inclusion training on an annual basis, and we have Sensory Bags available at each Guest Services location. Sensory Bags contain fidget devices, noise cancelling headphones, and communication cards. Guest Services locations include near Gate 13, Gate 14 and near sections 5A, 38A, 2B, 5C and 6C.
Shuttle Services
Visit our Traffic & Parking page for more detailed information.
ADA Shuttle: A wheelchair accessible shuttle will transport guests in need (and their companions) from the disability parking lots to Ohio Stadium. The shuttle will pickup guests inside the Disability Lot, adjacent to the ROTC building, and drop-off guests on 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 ends.
West Campus Shuttle: A complimentary guest shuttle will transport guests from the Mount Hall Loop (West Campus Parking Lots) to the Transit Hub along John Herrick Drive near the Lincoln Tower Fields and Tennis Courts. This shuttle will operate from six hours prior to kickoff until one hour after the game ends.
COTA Shuttle: 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!
Skull Session
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. 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 Ohio Stadium. As the team exits, the band plays “Across the Field,” first softly and slowly, then up to the usual pace and volume. Other Skull Session traditions include “The Navy Hymn” and “Hang On Sloopy.”
Doors for Skull Session open 3 hours prior to kickoff. Skull Session begins approximately two hours and twenty minutes prior to kickoff.
All guests entering St. John Arena are subject to security screening and inspection by walk through metal detectors. No bags of any size are permitted into St. John Arena – wristlets, wallets, and clutches no larger than 5x8x1 are allowed. The same Permitted and Prohibited Items for Ohio Stadium apply to St. John Arena.
There are no tickets for Skull Session, all seats are general admission and are available on a first come, first served basis. Disability Seating is located at the east side of the main level and is available on a first come, first served basis.
A First Aid Room staffed by Columbus Fire medics and Red Cross volunteers is available near Section 12A on the concourse. Concessions are available on the main concourse of St. John Arena – all concessions are cashless.
Smoking, Vaping, and Marijuana
The use of tobacco products (including and not limited to cigarettes, electronic cigarettes, vapes, vape pens, cigars and cigarillos, hookah smoked products, pipes, oral tobacco and nasal tobacco) is prohibited in all university buildings and on all university-owned properties, buildings, parking lots, garages, and outside areas.
This prohibition includes any product intended to mimic tobacco products or deliver nicotine other than for the purpose of cessation.
Possession and use of marijuana – even if obtained legally under Ohio law – is prohibited in or on all university-owned, operated or leased property. This includes residence halls and other university housing facilities, offices, university-managed properties and all Wexner Medical Center facilities. Federal law supersedes Ohio law. Because the university receives federal funding, the university is subject to federal law in this area, including the Drug Free Schools and Communities Act. This act specifically prohibits possession, use or distribution of marijuana in relation to any university activity, including research.
Solicitation/Literature
Resale of tickets, setting up a promotional space and/or distributing banners, booklets, business cards, circulars, commercial advertising, banners, signs, flyers, folders, handbills, leaflets, notices, pamphlets, posters, stickers, or any other written, printed and/or painted materials in or around Ohio Stadium, including in parking lots without the permission of The Ohio State University Department of Athletics is strictly prohibited. To ensure a safe atmosphere, individuals may not impede the flow of guests in, around, and out of Ohio Stadium.
If you would like to sell Ohio State merchandise on city property during game days, approval must be given by both the Office of Trademark & Licensing Services at The Ohio State University and the City of Columbus. Click here for more information from our Trademark & Licensing Office.
Stadium/Section Entry
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!
Tailgating Policies
Tailgating is one of the best experiences on gameday – and we want you to do it safely! Check out our full tailgating policies and here for full traffic & parking information.
Ticketing FAQs
Tours of Ohio Stadium
Go behind the scenes at the Ohio Stadium on a 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. Tours are not available on gamedays but are available throughout the week leading up to each game. Tours sell out quickly so be sure to purchase your timed tickets early. You can purchase a 60 minute Buckeye Basic Tour or upgrade to a 90 minute VIP tour which stops inside the Band Center and Home Locker Room. Visit OhioStadiumTours.com for info!
Water Fountains
Guests will find water refill stations on all soda fountain machines. Guests are permitted to bring in bottles that are clear, plastic, and empty. If you need a drink of water, courtesy cups can be obtained at a First Aid Room and then filled at a soda machine with water.
Wheelchair Escort Service
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.
Wifi in Ohio Stadium
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:
- Ohio State faculty, staff and students will automatically connect to osuwireless inside Ohio Stadium and should not need to access osuFanWifi
- Fans can access osuFanWifi by opening their device WiFi settings and selecting osuFanWifi
iPhone Steps
- Settings
- WiFi
- Select osuFanWiFi
- Connect
*There is no passcode to access osuFanWiFi
Android Steps
- Settings
- Connections
- Select osuFanWiFi
- Connect
*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
