Gameday In Blacksburg: Ultimate Virginia Tech Guide

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Gameday in Blacksburg is an experience like no other. As the home of the Virginia Tech Hokies, this small town in southwestern Virginia comes alive on fall Saturdays, transforming into a sea of maroon and orange. Whether you're a die-hard Hokie fan or just visiting for a game, we've got the ultimate guide to help you make the most of your gameday experience in Blacksburg.

Getting to Blacksburg

Located in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Blacksburg is easily accessible by car or air. If you're flying in, the closest airport is the Roanoke-Blacksburg Regional Airport (ROA), which is about 30 miles from campus. From there, you can rent a car or take a shuttle to Blacksburg. If you're driving, be aware that traffic can get congested on gameday, so plan ahead and leave plenty of time to get to your destination.

Parking and Transportation

Once you arrive in Blacksburg, parking can be a challenge. Virginia Tech offers several parking options, including lots and garages, but be prepared to walk a bit to get to your seat. If you're not familiar with the area, consider using the university's parking and transportation guide to help navigate the campus. Shuttle buses are also available to transport fans from various parking lots to the stadium.

Lane Stadium: The Home of the Hokies

With a seating capacity of over 66,000, Lane Stadium is the perfect place to watch the Hokies take on their opponents. The stadium offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and a electric atmosphere that's sure to get you pumped up for the game. Make sure to arrive early to soak in the pre-game festivities and explore the concourse, which features a variety of concessions and souvenir stands.

Tickets and Seating

Tickets for Virginia Tech football games can be purchased through the university's athletic website or at the stadium box office. Be aware that tickets tend to sell out quickly, especially for big games, so plan ahead and buy your tickets early. The stadium offers a variety of seating options, from general admission to luxury suites. If you're looking for a unique experience, consider purchasing tickets for the South End Zone, which features a standing-room-only section with a lively atmosphere.

Game Day Traditions

Virginia Tech has a rich tradition of gameday festivities, from the marching band's pre-game performance to the singing of "Enter Sandman" before the team takes the field. Here are a few traditions you won't want to miss:

• The Hokie Walk: Before each game, the team walks from the practice field to Lane Stadium, where they're greeted by thousands of screaming fans.
• The Marching Virginians: The university's marching band performs a pre-game show that's sure to get you pumped up for the game.
• The Singing of "Enter Sandman": This Metallica classic has become a Hokie tradition, with the entire stadium singing along as the team takes the field.

Food and Drink

Blacksburg has a thriving food and drink scene, with plenty of options to satisfy your cravings on gameday. Here are a few recommendations:

• The Cellar: Located in downtown Blacksburg, The Cellar offers a wide selection of beers and a menu of tasty pub fare.
• Cabo Fish Taco: This Blacksburg institution serves up delicious fish tacos and other Mexican-inspired dishes.
• Top of the Stairs (T.O.T.S.): This popular bar and restaurant is a great place to grab a drink and watch the game.

Tailgating

Tailgating is a time-honored tradition at Virginia Tech, with thousands of fans gathering in the parking lots around Lane Stadium to grill, drink, and socialize before the game. If you're planning to tailgate, be sure to arrive early and bring plenty of food, drinks, and games to keep you entertained.

Accommodations

Blacksburg has a range of accommodations to suit every budget, from budget-friendly hotels to luxurious bed and breakfasts. Here are a few recommendations:

• The Inn at Virginia Tech: This upscale hotel is located on campus and offers comfortable rooms and a range of amenities.
• The Main Street Inn: This charming bed and breakfast is located in the heart of downtown Blacksburg and offers a range of rooms and suites.
• The Blacksburg Marriott: This hotel is located just off campus and offers comfortable rooms and a range of amenities.

Camping

If you're looking for a more rustic gameday experience, consider camping in the Blacksburg area. There are several campgrounds to choose from, including the Blacksburg/Christiansburg KOA and the FloydFest Campground.

Game Day Essentials

Here are a few essentials to bring with you on gameday:

• Tickets: Make sure to bring your tickets to the game, as well as a valid ID and any other required documents.
• Comfortable shoes: You'll likely be doing a lot of walking on gameday, so wear comfortable shoes that can handle the demands of the day.
• Sunscreen and a hat: The sun can be intense in the mountains, so be sure to bring sunscreen and a hat to protect yourself.
• Water: Stay hydrated by bringing a refillable water bottle to the game.

Security

Security is a top priority at Lane Stadium, so be aware of the following rules and regulations:

• Bag policy: The stadium has a clear bag policy, so be sure to bring a clear bag or a small clutch.
• Prohibited items: Certain items, such as food and drinks, are prohibited in the stadium.
• Metal detectors: Metal detectors are located at each entrance to the stadium, so be prepared to pass through security before entering.

Game Day Schedule

Here's a general outline of the gameday schedule:

• 9:00 AM: Gates open for tailgating
• 11:00 AM: The Hokie Walk
• 12:00 PM: The Marching Virginians perform
• 1:00 PM: Kickoff
• 4:00 PM: Post-game festivities

Post-Game Activities

After the game, there are plenty of activities to enjoy in Blacksburg. Here are a few recommendations:

• The Cellar: This popular bar and restaurant is a great place to grab a drink and relive the highlights of the game.
• Cabo Fish Taco: This Blacksburg institution serves up delicious food and drinks, and is a great place to meet up with friends after the game.
• Downtown Blacksburg: The downtown area is always lively after a game, with plenty of shops, restaurants, and bars to explore.

We hope this guide has helped you prepare for an unforgettable gameday experience in Blacksburg. Whether you're a die-hard Hokie fan or just visiting for a game, we're sure you'll have a blast in this vibrant college town. So grab your maroon and orange gear, and get ready to cheer on the Hokies!