Bill Armstrong Stadium - Image 1
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Bill Armstrong Stadium

4.6
·68 reviews·Bloomington, United States

Home to the legendary Little 500 cycling race and the electrifying IU Hoosiers soccer team, Bill Armstrong Stadium buzzes with collegiate spirit.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Soccer Season Evenings

Electric atmosphere, passionate fans

CrowdHigh
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Bill Armstrong Stadium - Image 1

Bill Armstrong Stadium

Best Time

Soccer Season Evenings

Electric atmosphere, passionate fans

CrowdHigh
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Home to the legendary Little 500 cycling race and the electrifying IU Hoosiers soccer team, Bill Armstrong Stadium buzzes with collegiate spirit.

4.6
(68 reviews)

"It's a cool place when it is crowded and people are there to cheer their teams."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Parking Strategy

Parking can be a walk uphill. Consider using apps like Prked for driveways or arrive early for prime spots.

🎟️ Soccer Game Tickets

Students get free tickets with their Crimson Card for home games. Book in advance for popular matchups!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

IU Men's Soccer Matches

IU Men's Soccer Matches

Bill Armstrong Stadium

Experience the electric atmosphere of collegiate soccer with passionate fans cheering on the Hoosiers. A must-see for sports enthusiasts.

The Little 500 Cycling Race

The Little 500 Cycling Race

Bill Armstrong Stadium

Witness the 'Greatest College Cycling Race in the World,' a thrilling spectacle of speed, strategy, and tradition.

The Cinder Track

The Cinder Track

Bill Armstrong Stadium

Home to the fabled cinder track, this venue holds a special place in cycling history and hosts intense collegiate competitions.

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Planning Your Visit

Plan Your Visit to Bill Armstrong Stadium

Bill Armstrong Stadium is a vibrant hub for college sports, primarily known for Indiana University's soccer matches and the legendary Little 500 cycling race. Arrive early, especially for popular soccer games, as parking can be a walk uphill. Check the IU Athletics website for game schedules and ticket information to avoid missing out on the electric atmosphere.

Little 500 Cycling Race Essentials

The Little 500 is a major event drawing huge crowds. If attending, book tickets and accommodation well in advance. The race involves teams on identical single-speed bikes, with rider exchanges and pace car laps adding to the spectacle. It's a unique college tradition immortalized in the movie 'Breaking Away'.

Best Times

When
Soccer Season Evenings
Why
Electric atmosphere, passionate fans
Crowd
High
When
Little 500 Race Weekend
Why
Unforgettable college tradition
Crowd
High
When
Off-Season Mornings
Why
Peaceful track views
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

The US Open X account savagely trolled a male spectator who appeared to get stood up by a woman for a Honey Deuce drink while in the stands at Louis Armstrong Stadium. 🫣 See more at the link in our bio.
@nypost
7.1K likes • 451.3K views

🚗 Parking Strategy

Parking can be a walk uphill. Consider using apps like Prked for driveways or arrive early for prime spots. Reddit

🎟️ Soccer Game Tickets

Students get free tickets with their Crimson Card for home games. Book in advance for popular matchups! Reddit

Hamzah Sheeraz has arrived at Louis Armstrong Stadium in New York ahead of #RingIII 🥊🔥 🏟️ #TheRing #TheRINGIII #sheeraz #BERANGA #shakurstevenson #zepeda
@turki_alalshikh
3K likes • 74.7K views
Bill Armstrong Stadium 📍 2/24/2024 STAND UP, SHOW UP, SHOW OUT, and BE THERE. @quinton.elliot
turnerjmore
105 likes • 6.3K views

🚴 Little 500 Prep

Book accommodation and tickets for the Little 500 well in advance; it's a major event! Instagram

📸 Capture the Action

The stadium offers great sightlines for both soccer and cycling. Bring your camera to capture the excitement. Instagram

Bill Armstrong Stadium is closed today, we thought you might enjoy this view of the cinders. Thank you to @agdcycling rider and @detachment215 cadet @alexaspahr6 for this 🎥
iusflittle500
821 likes • 29.6K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Parking Strategy

Parking can be a walk uphill. Consider using apps like Prked for driveways or arrive early for prime spots. Reddit

🎟️ Soccer Game Tickets

Students get free tickets with their Crimson Card for home games. Book in advance for popular matchups! Reddit

🚴 Little 500 Prep

Book accommodation and tickets for the Little 500 well in advance; it's a major event! Instagram

📸 Capture the Action

The stadium offers great sightlines for both soccer and cycling. Bring your camera to capture the excitement. Instagram

🥤 Concessions Access

Easy access to concessions during games, making it convenient to grab refreshments. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(68 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Bill Armstrong Stadium for its electric atmosphere during IU soccer games and its iconic status as the home of the Little 500 cycling race. The good sightlines and accessible concessions enhance the experience. Some note the uphill walk from parking, but overall, it's considered a vibrant and memorable collegiate sports venue.

"Our seats and vantage point was perfect. We enjoyed watching the IU vs UCLA soccer game."

Leonard Caponegro

"When full (and as I write in 2025 students get a free ticket to every home game just by showing their Crimson Card) this is one of the most raucous college soccer venues in the U.S. a great time with easy access to concessions. It is a bit of a walk from the parking, but closer than football games (farther than basketball), so leave time to get from the parking and up the hill to the stadium."

Andrew Dills

"Our recent visit to Armstrong Stadium for a soccer game was nothing short of exceptional. The Director of Operations ensured everything ran smoothly, enhancing our enjoyment of the match. The stadium's atmosphere was electric, and the overall experience was a testament to their commitment to excellence. Kudos to Armstrong Stadium and IU Soccer for providing a memorable and thrilling soccer game experience!"

Breanna Holbrook

What People Like

Electric soccer atmosphere
Iconic Little 500 venue
Good sightlines

What People Dislike

Uphill parking walk

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Bill Armstrong Stadium is located in Bloomington, Indiana, on the Indiana University campus. Visitors typically drive to the stadium. Parking is available, though it can involve an uphill walk. For specific directions, it's best to use a GPS navigation system with the stadium's address. Reddit

Parking is available near the stadium, but it can be a walk uphill, especially from further lots. Some Redditors suggest using parking apps like Prked to find private driveways for rent, which can be a convenient alternative. Arriving early is recommended for better parking spots. Reddit

While specific public transport routes directly to Bill Armstrong Stadium might be limited, Bloomington has a bus system (Bloomington Transit) that serves the university area. It's advisable to check the Bloomington Transit schedule for routes that get you closest to the stadium. Reddit

Bill Armstrong Stadium is located on the Indiana University campus, which is adjacent to downtown Bloomington. The distance can vary depending on your exact starting point, but it's generally a short drive or a moderate walk from the downtown area. Reddit

For the Little 500, parking is a significant consideration due to the large crowds. It's highly recommended to plan your parking strategy well in advance. Many attendees opt for pre-booked parking or arrive very early to secure a spot. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Tickets for IU soccer games can typically be purchased through the official IU Athletics website or at the stadium's box office on game day. Students with a Crimson Card often receive free admission to home games. Reddit

Tickets for the Little 500 are in high demand and should be purchased well in advance. They are usually available through the IU Athletics website or authorized ticket vendors. It's a good idea to secure them as soon as they go on sale. Instagram

Bill Armstrong Stadium offers various seating options, with sightlines generally considered good for both soccer and cycling events. Specific seating charts and availability can be found on the IU Athletics ticketing page. Reddit

For IU soccer games, tickets may be available on game day, but it's advisable to check availability beforehand, especially for popular matchups. For the Little 500, tickets often sell out in advance, so purchasing early is crucial. Reddit

Indiana University students typically receive free admission to home games at Bill Armstrong Stadium by simply showing their Crimson Card at the entrance. This is a great perk for students attending IU sporting events. Reddit

🎫 🏟️ Onsite Experience

The atmosphere at Bill Armstrong Stadium for IU soccer games is often described as electric and raucous, especially when the stadium is full. Passionate fans create a lively environment, making it one of the most engaging college soccer venues. Reddit

The stadium offers good sightlines for viewing events. Concessions are readily accessible, making it convenient for attendees to get food and drinks during games. Reddit

Yes, Bill Armstrong Stadium provides good vantage points for photography, whether you're capturing the action of a soccer match or the intensity of the Little 500 cycling race. The open design allows for dynamic shots. Instagram

The Little 500 is a unique collegiate cycling race featuring teams on single-speed bikes. It includes rider exchanges, pace car laps, and a competitive spirit that draws large crowds. It's famously depicted in the movie 'Breaking Away.' Reddit

While primarily a sports venue, Bill Armstrong Stadium has hosted other events, including music performances. For instance, ODESZA played an afterparty there following a US Open event. TikTok

🍽️ 🍴 Food & Dining

Bill Armstrong Stadium offers convenient access to concessions during events, providing typical stadium fare. While specific menus can vary, you can expect standard options for food and beverages to enjoy during games. Reddit

Stadium policies regarding outside food and beverages can vary. It's best to check the official IU Athletics or Bill Armstrong Stadium guidelines before your visit to confirm what is permitted. Generally, outside food and drinks are restricted. Reddit

Yes, being located on the Indiana University campus and near downtown Bloomington, there are numerous restaurants and dining options available within a short distance of Bill Armstrong Stadium. You can find a variety of cuisines to suit your preferences. Reddit

The 'Honey Deuce' is a signature cocktail of the US Open tennis tournament, often served at the Louis Armstrong Stadium. It's a popular refreshment for attendees during the matches. TikTok

Concession stands at sporting venues often have limited vegetarian or vegan options. It's advisable to inquire at the concession stands upon arrival or check the stadium's website for any specific dietary offerings. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The stadium itself, with its track and seating areas, offers great photo opportunities. Capturing the energy of a packed crowd during a soccer match or the intensity of the Little 500 cyclists on the track are prime subjects. Instagram

Policies on professional camera equipment can vary by event. For most regular season games, standard cameras are usually allowed. However, for major events like the Little 500 or if you're using professional gear, it's best to check the specific event's photography policy beforehand. Instagram

Generally, personal photography for non-commercial use is permitted. However, commercial photography or videography often requires special accreditation. Always adhere to any posted signs or instructions from stadium staff. Instagram

Wide shots capturing the scale of the stadium and the crowd are effective. Close-ups of the athletes in action, the cyclists on the cinder track, or the expressions of enthusiastic fans can also make for compelling photos. Instagram

Yes, the Little 500 offers numerous photographic opportunities, from the pre-race ceremonies to the intense cycling action. The dynamic nature of the race, with rider exchanges and close competition, provides exciting moments to capture. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Bill Armstrong Stadium offers a family-friendly environment, especially for IU soccer games. The stadium's good sightlines mean kids can easily follow the action on the field. Concessions are readily available for snacks and drinks, making it convenient for families. Reddit For the Little 500, while it's a lively event, families might want to consider the intensity and duration of the race. It's a unique spectacle, but younger children might find the long cycling event challenging. Instagram

💰 Budget Travelers

For budget-conscious visitors, attending IU soccer games at Bill Armstrong Stadium can be very affordable, especially for students who get free entry with their Crimson Card. Reddit This makes it a great option for experiencing live college sports without a significant expense. For other events, checking for student discounts or early bird ticket offers can help save money. Reddit

🚴 Cycling Enthusiasts

Bill Armstrong Stadium is a pilgrimage site for cycling enthusiasts, primarily due to the Little 500. Witnessing this iconic race on the historic cinder track is a bucket-list item for many. The unique format and intense competition offer a different flavor of cycling compared to professional road races. Instagram+1

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Legendary Little 500

Bill Armstrong Stadium is most famously known as the home of the Little 500, often dubbed the 'Greatest College Cycling Race in the World.' This unique event, immortalized in the movie 'Breaking Away,' is a cornerstone of Indiana University tradition. It features teams competing on identical single-speed bicycles over a grueling 500 laps for the men's race and 250 laps for the women's race. The race is characterized by strategic rider exchanges, where cyclists tag each other off to maintain momentum, and the use of a pace car to lead the field. The atmosphere is electric, with dormitories, clubs, fraternities, and sororities fiercely supporting their teams. Instagram+1

The competition on the cinder track is intense, with teams vying for the prestigious Borg-Warner Trophy. The event is not just a race; it's a massive campus-wide celebration that draws thousands of spectators. The preparation and dedication of the riders, often students balancing academics with rigorous training, are a testament to the spirit of the Little 500. Instagram+1

Attending the Little 500 is an experience in itself. Visitors can expect a vibrant, high-energy environment filled with school spirit. It's recommended to plan your visit well in advance, as tickets and accommodation tend to sell out quickly due to the event's popularity. Instagram

IU Hoosiers Soccer at Bill Armstrong Stadium

Bill Armstrong Stadium is a premier venue for collegiate soccer, serving as the home ground for the highly successful Indiana University Hoosiers men's soccer team. The stadium boasts excellent sightlines, allowing fans to get close to the action and experience the thrill of college soccer firsthand. When the stadium is full, it transforms into one of the most raucous and intimidating environments for visiting teams in the United States. Reddit

The atmosphere during IU soccer matches is often described as electric, with passionate fans creating a deafening roar to support their team. This home-field advantage is a significant factor in the Hoosiers' success. The stadium's design ensures that the energy of the crowd is channeled directly onto the field, making for an unforgettable game-day experience. Instagram

For students, attending IU soccer games is particularly rewarding, as they often receive free admission by simply presenting their Crimson Card. This policy contributes to the vibrant student presence that fuels the stadium's energetic atmosphere. Reddit The stadium also features accessible concessions, ensuring attendees can easily enjoy refreshments throughout the match. Reddit

The Iconic Cinder Track

The cinder track at Bill Armstrong Stadium is a historic and iconic feature, primarily known for its role in hosting the legendary Little 500 cycling race. Unlike modern synthetic tracks, cinder tracks are composed of a compacted mixture of ash, dirt, and other materials, offering a unique racing surface that demands specific skills and endurance from cyclists. Instagram+1

This track has witnessed countless thrilling races and has become synonymous with the spirit of collegiate cycling competition. Its historical significance adds a layer of prestige to any event held there, drawing participants and spectators who appreciate its legacy. The visual of riders competing on this classic surface is a powerful image for cycling enthusiasts. Instagram

While its primary fame comes from the Little 500, the cinder track is a defining characteristic of Bill Armstrong Stadium, contributing to its unique identity as a venue steeped in athletic tradition. Instagram

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