Your Kid-Friendly Guide to Jack Trice Stadium

Your Kid-Friendly Guide to Jack Trice Stadium

Fall is upon us, bringing with it the charm of cozy sweatshirts, comfort food, the excitement of tailgating, and of course, the thrill of football! And what could be a more perfect way to embrace these joys than by treating the entire family to an ISU football game at the iconic Jack Trice Stadium in Ames?

As the Cyclones gear up for their eagerly anticipated home opener against UNI scheduled for September 2, 2023, followed by a riveting showdown against UofI on September 9, 2023, football enthusiasts from all corners of the state are eagerly preparing to embark on a pilgrimage to Ames. Luckily, attending Iowa State Football Games with children are very do-able.  We’ll give you the scoop on maximizing your time, money and fun at an ISU football game.

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Here’s your kid friendly guide to attending an Iowa State Cyclone football game at Jack Trice Stadium:

Your Kid-Friendly Guide to Jack Trice Stadium – dsm4kids.com

Getting to the Stadium

If you’re new to Iowa, Jack Trice Stadium is situated in Ames. If you’re planning to drive, it’s a good idea to set off early. Traffic tends to get quite congested around the stadium for several hours leading up to kickoff.

Public Parking

Public parking lots open six hours before the game starts on game day. The official Iowa State lots charge a parking fee of $25 per car. Additionally, certain nearby businesses and apartment complexes offer parking in their lots for fees ranging from $15 to $25.

All ISU parking passes are now mobile. While parking passes for the general public lots might be available for purchase on-site at the lot (via credit card) on game day, it’s highly recommended to buy a parking pass online in advance to secure a designated spot for the game day.

Using CyRide

Another option is to park closer to the campus or in nearby areas and then either walk or use CyRide, the local public transit system, to reach the stadium. On game days, the closest bus stop to Jack Trice Stadium is located at Lincoln Way and Beach Avenue. Whichever transportation option you choose, be prepared for a crowded walk of approximately one to two miles to the stadium.

During your walk, keep an eye out for shuttles pulled by tractors that offer rides to the stadium.

Accommodating Young Children

If you’re bringing young children along, be ready for some piggyback rides or consider using a baby carrier to make the journey easier. Regrettably, strollers are not permitted inside the stadium, so plan accordingly.

Your Kid-Friendly Guide to Jack Trice Stadium – dsm4kids.com

Tickets and Seating

Securing your game day tickets at Jack Trice Stadium is the first step towards immersing yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of college football. From mobile ticketing options to exclusive fan club passes, explore the diverse ticketing offerings that ensure a memorable game day in Ames.

Tickets

Ticket information can be found on Iowa State University’s website. All gates open 90 minutes prior to the start of the game. All fans are required to use a mobile ticket for entry into Jack Trice Stadium. Mobile tickets can be accessed through the complimentary ISU Cyclones App or online using an Account Manager.

For those in need of “Will-Call” services, the designated window for the general public is the ticket office inside the Jacobson Building on the North end of Jack Trice Stadium. Single-game tickets, if still available, can be purchased online or at the ticket trailer located southwest of Gate 3. Ticket availability is subject to change. The ticket office opens four hours before kickoff or at 8:00 am, whichever is later, and will remain open through halftime. It’s important to note that children under two years of age do not require a game ticket.

Jr. Cyclone Club

You can also purchase Jr. Cyclone Club passes.  The Jr. Cyclone Club is the official fan club for Cyclone fans 12th grade and younger.  Members receive admission to over 70 events, including all home football games. In addition, Football Parent Passes can be purchased.  Limit of 2 per household and children must be Jr. Cyclone Club members to purchase. A Football Parent Pass is valid for access to the Jr. Cyclone Club Hillsides for all home football games in MidAmerican Energy Field at Jack Trice Stadium.

Seating and Restrooms

General seating at Jack Trice Stadium features bench-style seating. Additionally, fans are permitted to bring backless cushions that are smaller than 16″ in width for added comfort during the game.

Potty time? Restrooms are located by the concession stands which are located on the east and west sides of the Stadium between the upper and lower levels. If you’ve got a high seat, be ready to tote your kids up and down some steep stairs.

Your Kid-Friendly Guide to Jack Trice Stadium – dsm4kids.com

Safety and Security

When attending a football game at Jack Trice Stadium with your children, it’s important to prioritize safety and security. To enhance your game day experience, here are some key considerations:

Clear Bag Policy

Be aware that certain items are not allowed inside the stadium due to security measures. Since 2018, the Iowa State Athletics Department has implemented a “clear bag policy” for football games. The following types of bags are permitted:

  • Plastic, vinyl, or PVC clear totes that are no larger than 12x6x12 inches and have a logo not exceeding 4.5×3.5 inches.
  • One-gallon clear plastic freezer bags (e.g., Ziploc or similar).
  • Small clutch bags that don’t exceed 4.5×6.5 inches.
  • Exceptions will be made for bags containing essential medical, family, or child care items.

Child Safety Protocols

Prepare a game day plan that emphasizes the safety of your children. Ensure you closely supervise them within the busy stadium environment. Establish a designated meeting point in case of accidental separation.

Wristbands with Contact Information

As an extra precaution, consider outfitting your child with a wristband containing your contact information and the location of your seats, written on the INSIDE of the band. This can provide a quick and reliable way to reunite in case you become separated.

Your Kid-Friendly Guide to Jack Trice Stadium – dsm4kids.com

Food

Jack Trice Stadium offers several food options at its concession stands, ranging from hot dogs and hamburgers to nachos and popcorn. If you’re fortunate enough to score Club Level seats, you’ll have upgraded food options, in more plush settings. Unfortunately, Jack Trice Stadium does not allow outside food or beverages.  Only those items required for medical, family or child care needs will be allowed.  However one 20 oz. unopened bottle of water is allowed per person.

Tailgating

Much of the fun of going to a college football game is the pre-game party. Tailgating is a great way for your family to hang out, meet fellow fans and get a full meal before the game actually begins. Parking lots open six hours prior to game time, and the grills get fired up shortly thereafter. Bring a football and some food, and you’ll likely be able to join any group. You could even make the trip just to tailgate, but remember, the $25 parking fee would apply if you are driving to the Stadium regardless of whether you attend the game.  For more tailgating tips check out our article: “7 Tips 4 Tailgating With Kids“.

Your Kid-Friendly Guide to Jack Trice Stadium - dsm4kids.com

Additional Tips for an Enhanced Game Day Experience

  • Ear Protection: Shield your kids’ ears from the potentially overwhelming noise levels at the game by bringing ear protection, ensuring their comfort throughout the event.
  • Wear Team Colors: Encourage your kids to wear Iowa State colors or merchandise to foster a stronger sense of connection to the team and the lively atmosphere.
  • Explain Game Rules: Familiarize your children with the fundamentals of football, such as touchdowns, field goals, and first downs. This knowledge will enhance their engagement and enjoyment of the game.
  • Stay Engaged: Keep your kids entertained during breaks by playing simple games or discussing the game. This tactic will help sustain their enthusiasm and attention.
  • Promote Sportsmanship: Instill the values of good sportsmanship in your kids by teaching them to be respectful towards fans from both teams. Your behavior sets a positive example for them to emulate.
  • Exit Strategy: Prepare for various scenarios by having an exit plan in case your kids become restless or the game’s progress doesn’t align with expectations. This ensures a smooth departure without disrupting others.
  • Celebrate the Experience: Emphasize the joy and excitement of the day, regardless of the game’s outcome. Communicate to your kids that the overall experience is what truly matters, rather than the final score.

Jack Trice Stadium
1800 S 4th Street
Ames, IA 50011
(515) 294-3662
http://www.cyclones.com/

Have you been to Jack Trice Stadium with kids? Share your personal insights and tips for a successful experience in the Comments section below. Your input could greatly assist fellow parents in making the most of their game day outing.

Featured photo source is Iowa State Football Facilities