The Cheez-It Citrus Bowl is the seventh-oldest bowl game across the United States, hosting the top Big Ten and SEC teams from outside the College Football Playoff bowls. This year, leading up to the Citrus Bowl, Cheez-It has started showing up at college football tailgates with Cheez Wheelz. If you’re hungry, head over to this innovative food truck for inspired meals like the Cheezy Pickle Dip, Cheez-Burger, and Chili Mac & Cheez hot dog. Of course, if you’re not a Cheez-Its fan or looking for something else to eat, you’re in luck. College football tailgates are often filled with great food options, cold beer, and an infectious energy as you prepare to cheer on your favorite team. And you’re not alone; if you’re decked out in gear, screaming until your voice goes hoarse, or singing your team’s anthem full-force, you’re surrounded by others who understand. (Baby boomers love this college sports team.)
But if you’re not sure where to start with tailgating, don’t worry. 24/7 Wall St. has you covered. To understand the best college football tailgates for every football fan, we dug into our own experience, as well as research on sites like Reddit, CollegeWeekends.com, and Tailgater Magazine. Our list is ranked in order from lowest to highest attendance, with the top school on our list seeing nearly 75% of one million attendees at its tailgates. We also included a few details about each tailgate situation so you can figure out what tailgate is best suited for you. Get ready to learn where you should plan your next trip to tailgate today.
Why We Needed You to Know
Football is an iconic American pastime. Many people, both old and young, enjoy heading out to college football games to watch the NFL players of tomorrow battle it out on the field. But what’s interesting about college football is that it also deeply supports the school (financially speaking, that is) and contributes to economic growth in the area. The most dedicated fans spend thousands on equipment, travel, food, lodging, and more, while universities generate millions per game in parking, clothing sales, and concession revenue. For schools with exciting tailgating setups, they often engage more alumni and boosters, leading to more funding for university programs. (These college football programs have boosters with the deepest pockets.)
Here are the top 12 college football tailgates every football fan needs to attend:
12. University of Oregon
University of Oregon.
- Typical Attendance: ~50,000
If you’re looking for a more family-friendly tailgating experience, the University of Oregon might be your best bet. Fans head to the indoor Mo Tailgate Center — that’s right, a specific center JUST for tailgating — where thousands of people enjoy music, food, live radio broadcasts, dance competitions, and other fun activities. Just make sure to wear comfortable shoes!
11. University of Oklahoma
University of Oklahoma
- Typical Attendance: ~60,000
I’m a foodie, and gameday food is some of the best there is. Tailgating at the University of Oklahoma is any foodie’s dreams. You’ll see fans with smokers cooking ribs, ribeye, steak, pork, and brisket. The smell is amazing and will get you nice and full before you head into the game. In addition to the standard tailgating tents, you will also see plenty of RVs.
10. University of Washington
- Typical Attendance: ~70,000
Want a unique tailgating experience? Look no further. The University of Washington has some of the best “sailgating” around. Fans can bring their own boat or rent one in Husky Harbor. The boat capacity is 150 and fans are packed on every inch of usable boat space. Along with the music, and drinks, fans enjoy some of the best seafood around.
9. University of Tennessee
University of Tennessee.
- Typical Attendance: ~100,000
On college gameday, fans flood the streets with orange and white. This is one of three campuses where you can enjoy “sailgating.” The Vol Navy (boats docked by Neyland Stadium) fill the Tennessee River. You’ll enjoy a day of unique, sun-soaked activities – just take it from a local!
8. University of South Carolina
University of South Carolina.
- Typical Attendance: ~100,000
The University of South Carolina is known as the most diverse tailgate in the nation. There are live DJs, stages, vendor stands, and lots of socialization. You can even tailgate on the “Cockaboose,” a former railcar that’s been transformed into a private tailgating space. Get ready to explore something new before heading in to cheer for the Gamecocks!
7. University of Southern California
University of Southern California.
- Typical Attendance: ~100,000
If you’re heading to a tailgate at the University of Southern California, you might be wondering where to go. You really have two options. On campus, join students in enjoying food vendors, tailgate events, and student organization-hosted tailgates. If you’d prefer being around more die-hard fans, go to the Coliseum. You’ll see so many people decked out in Cardinal and Gold! The marching band performs on Trousdale Parkway, a time-honored tradition. Fans can also mingle with famous alumni stars, like Snoop Dog, who is spotted there frequently.
6. University of Wisconsin
University of Wisconsin.
- Typical Attendance: ~100,000
Tailgating at the University of Wisconsin in Madison is an entire town affair. Tailgating happens in bars, parks, parking lots, neighborhoods, apartments, Frat Row, and near the stadium. You won’t find another fanbase with a more unique approach to tailgating. And remember to check out the Badger Bash!
5. University of Mississippi
University of Mississippi.
- Typical Attendance: ~100,000
We can attest that the University of Missippi really is the “Holy Grail of Tailgating Sites.” Fans take over the Grove, a 10-acre park area. Student attendees dress in their Sunday best and tents are set up to be “fancy,” with chandeliers, lace, silver platters, and candelabras. The excitement culminates in the Walk of Champions, where fans swarm both sides of the sidewalk starting at the “Walk of Champions Arch,” as the team walks past.
4. Penn State University
Penn State University.
- Typical Attendance: ~110,000
There is fun for all audiences at Penn State! Attendees describe the tailgate as “Nittanyville,” as the number of tents resembles a city. Besides grilling, the Fan Fest, and the Dietz & Watson Tailgate Show, it’s a tradition to bar-hop around the stadium. At least you’ll show up to the game already in a great mood.
3. Ohio State University
Ohio State University.
- Typical Attendance: ~110,000
For the low price of $10, you can tailgate at Ohio State anywhere there is space. This makes OSU an extremely cost-effective way to get out and have some fun before game time. There is even a specific “Sober Tailgating” area, which makes tailgating more accessible for all fans. Fans are known for being friendly and many bring tons of extras of everything to share. Join the OSU community!
#2 Louisiana State University (LSU)
- Typical Attendance: ~350,000
At LSU, the celebrations start more than 24 hours before the start of the game – and you definitely don’t want to miss out. LSU sells tailgate packages that include a 25+ person capacity, tent, flat screens, outdoor furniture, fans, and bellhop service. If you’re looking for a high-octane, high-energy game with some great fun beforehand, LSU is the place for you.
1. University of Alabama
University of Alabama.
- Typical Attendance: ~785,000
“Roll Tide” rings out frequently around the tailgate scene as people enjoy barbecue, sport houndstooth pattern decor, and the traditional Yellowhammer cocktails. Crimson Tide has one of the largest fan bases, and home games are known as one of the top sports destinations in the country.
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