
Ben Hill Griffin Stadium (The Swamp)
Home of the Florida Gators, 'The Swamp' is a legendary college football stadium known for its intense atmosphere and passionate fanbase.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Cooler temps, electric atmosphere

Ben Hill Griffin Stadium (The Swamp)
Best Time
Cooler temps, electric atmosphere

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Home of the Florida Gators, 'The Swamp' is a legendary college football stadium known for its intense atmosphere and passionate fanbase.
"Absolutely electric atmosphere and only gators come out alive in the swamp."

🎯 Secure Tickets Early
Gator football tickets sell out fast! Buy in advance to guarantee your spot in The Swamp. :ticket:
💧 Stay Hydrated
Gainesville heat is no joke. Bring water bottles (check stadium policy) and drink up! :droplet:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Electric Atmosphere
Entire Stadium
Feel the roar of 90,000 fans in 'The Swamp' – an unforgettable college football experience.

'I Won't Back Down' Singalong
Between 3rd & 4th Quarters
Join thousands in a powerful chorus of Tom Petty's anthem, a true Gainesville tradition.

Gameday Flyovers
Pre-game
Experience the thrill of military aircraft soaring overhead, a patriotic spectacle before kickoff.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Heat and Crowds
Game Day Essentials
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Secure Tickets Early
Gator football tickets sell out fast! Buy in advance to guarantee your spot in The Swamp. :ticket:
💧 Stay Hydrated
Gainesville heat is no joke. Bring water bottles (check stadium policy) and drink up! :droplet:
🚶♂️ Explore The Swamp
Even on non-game days, you might be able to walk around parts of the stadium. :world_map:
🎶 Experience the Traditions
Don't miss the 'I Won't Back Down' singalong and other fan traditions. :musical_note:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Secure Tickets Early
Gator football tickets sell out fast! Buy in advance to guarantee your spot in The Swamp. :ticket:
💧 Stay Hydrated
Gainesville heat is no joke. Bring water bottles (check stadium policy) and drink up! :droplet:
🚶♂️ Explore The Swamp
Even on non-game days, you might be able to walk around parts of the stadium. :world_map:
🎶 Experience the Traditions
Don't miss the 'I Won't Back Down' singalong and other fan traditions. :musical_note:
🚗 Plan Your Parking
Parking is limited and can be expensive. Consider ride-sharing or public transport. :car:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the electric atmosphere and passionate fans at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium, calling it an unforgettable college football experience. The 'I Won't Back Down' singalong is a standout tradition. However, some find the seating uncomfortable, the heat and humidity intense, and parking challenging.
"Seats were Section 326, row 18. View of the field was better than expected and the fans were raucous but friendly until late into the 4th Quarter where the beer and heat were taking there toll."
Mark Caldwell
"First of all, Gainesville- especially the UF campus- is just beautiful. We did not attend a Gator’s game, but were invited as a fundraiser for my son to play football with his 6U team. It was an amazing experience! I can see how games there would be lots of fun! I also understand why it’s called “the swamp”. It quickly gets hot and humid in the stadium. Seating is tight and those metal seats get warm and attract the sun light. Cool stadium though if you’re a Gators football fan or visiting for a game. Parking is limited though."
Lauren Carter
"Commencement ceremony on May 2, 2025 was PERFECT! Speeches were succinct & inspiring, graduates were clearly excited, there was an electricity in the stadium! So glad i did not miss this night celebrating my graduate!"
susan frost
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Ben Hill Griffin Stadium is located on the University of Florida campus in Gainesville, FL. If driving, use GPS coordinates or search for 'Ben Hill Griffin Stadium'. Parking is available but can be limited and costly on game days. Many visitors opt for ride-sharing services or public transportation to avoid parking hassles.
Yes, Gainesville's public transit system, RTS (Regional Transit System), serves the University of Florida campus and provides routes that can get you close to Ben Hill Griffin Stadium. Check the RTS website for specific routes and schedules.
To avoid game day traffic, consider arriving several hours before kickoff, using ride-sharing services, or exploring parking options further from the stadium and walking or taking a shuttle.
While access can vary, some gates near the parking lot of the O-dome (Ben Hill Griffin Stadium) might be open for runners or general access at certain times. It's best to check the official UF Athletics website or call ahead to confirm availability.
Parking around Ben Hill Griffin Stadium is highly sought after and often requires pre-purchased permits or is available for a fee on game days. Many fans park in designated lots or garages on campus or in surrounding areas and walk.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tickets for Florida Gators football games at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium can be purchased through the official UF Athletics website, Ticketmaster, or reputable secondary ticket marketplaces. It's highly recommended to buy well in advance, as popular games sell out quickly.
Ben Hill Griffin Stadium enforces a clear bag policy similar to many other major sporting venues. Only clear bags up to a certain size are permitted, along with small clutch purses. Check the official UF Athletics website for the most up-to-date and detailed bag policy.
Gates for Ben Hill Griffin Stadium typically open 90 minutes to 2 hours before kickoff for Florida Gators football games. Arriving early is advised to allow time for security checks and to find your seats.
Yes, University of Florida students can often purchase football tickets, though they are typically in high demand and may sell out quickly. Information on student ticket purchasing is usually available through UF's student affairs or athletics departments.
Refund and exchange policies for tickets to Ben Hill Griffin Stadium events are typically determined by the point of purchase. Generally, tickets are non-refundable unless an event is canceled. Always review the terms and conditions when buying tickets.
🎫 🏟️ Onsite Experience
The atmosphere at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium, affectionately known as 'The Swamp,' is renowned for being incredibly electric and passionate. Fans are known for their loud cheers and strong support for the Florida Gators, creating an intense and memorable experience.
Seating at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium consists primarily of bleacher-style seats without backs, similar to high school stadiums. Seats can be tight, and they can get warm and attract sunlight.
Absolutely! The 'I Won't Back Down' singalong between the third and fourth quarters, a tribute to Gainesville native Tom Petty, is a powerful and iconic tradition. Pre-game flyovers also add to the excitement.
Ben Hill Griffin Stadium offers a variety of concessions, including classic stadium fare like hot dogs, popcorn, and nachos. Beer is also available for purchase. Cups can range from 22oz to 32oz.
Ben Hill Griffin Stadium is equipped with accessible seating and facilities for guests with disabilities. It's recommended to contact the UF Athletics ticket office in advance to arrange for accessible seating and parking.
📸 📸 Photography
For iconic shots, capture the vastness of the stadium from the upper decks, the passionate fans during a game, or the iconic 'The Swamp' signage. The field itself, especially during pre-game ceremonies like flyovers, offers dramatic photo opportunities.
Yes, personal photography and videography for non-commercial use are generally permitted inside Ben Hill Griffin Stadium. However, flash photography might be restricted during certain moments, and professional equipment may require special credentials.
For dramatic lighting, consider game days during late afternoon or evening games when the stadium lights create a vibrant atmosphere. For exterior shots or capturing the stadium's architecture without crowds, early mornings or late afternoons on non-game days are ideal.
Look for displays or areas that highlight Florida Gators legends and championship history. The stadium itself is steeped in tradition, so any angle can tell a story of Gator football.
If visiting during humid weather, protect your camera gear from moisture. Consider using lens hoods to prevent flare and condensation. Be prepared for potential fogging on lenses when moving between air-conditioned areas and the humid stadium.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the bleacher seating might not be the most comfortable for little ones, the electric atmosphere and traditions like the 'I Won't Back Down' singalong can be captivating. Check the stadium's clear bag policy beforehand to avoid any issues at entry. If possible, try to secure seats with a bit more legroom or consider bringing a small, approved cushion for added comfort.
💰 Budget Travelers
To save on food and drinks, consider eating before you enter the stadium or checking if any food trucks outside offer more affordable options. While parking directly at the stadium is expensive, exploring public transport or parking further away and walking can cut down on transportation costs.
🎓 University of Florida Students
Embrace the traditions! Participate in the 'I Won't Back Down' singalong, cheer on the Gators with passion, and soak in the electric atmosphere that makes 'The Swamp' legendary. It's a chance to be part of something bigger and create lasting memories.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Nickname: 'The Swamp'
The stadium has undergone numerous expansions and renovations over the decades, significantly increasing its seating capacity to over 88,000, making it one of the largest on-campus stadiums in the NCAA. Despite its modern upgrades, 'The Swamp' retains its intense atmosphere, a testament to its enduring legacy in college football.
Beyond football, the stadium has also hosted other significant events, including commencement ceremonies for the University of Florida, showcasing its versatility and importance to the university community.
Gameday Traditions and Fan Experience
Pre-game ceremonies often include spectacular military flyovers, adding a patriotic and awe-inspiring element to the event. The energy is palpable from the moment you enter, with fans decked out in orange and blue, creating a sea of color and sound. The stadium's design amplifies the crowd's roar, contributing to its reputation as one of the loudest venues in college football.
Fans often engage in chants and cheers throughout the game, creating a dynamic and interactive experience. The 'Orange and Blue' chant is a common sight, with sections of the crowd shouting 'Orange!' and others responding with 'Blue!' This collective participation is a hallmark of the Gator Nation's spirit.
Navigating The Swamp: Practical Tips for Visitors
Seating at The Swamp consists of bleacher-style seats without backs, which can be uncomfortable for extended periods, especially in the heat. Bringing a small, stadium-approved cushion might enhance comfort. The stadium can also get crowded, so arriving early is recommended to navigate security checks and find your seats without rushing.
Parking and transportation are significant considerations. Game day parking is limited and often expensive. Many attendees opt for ride-sharing services or public transportation to avoid the hassle of finding parking and dealing with post-game traffic. Planning your route and transportation in advance is key to a stress-free visit.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit