Game Day Parking
Near Ohio Stadium
Parking near Ohio Stadium sells out before game day. Pre-book a guaranteed spot through SpotHero and lock in the best rate — no circling, no stress, just show up and walk in.
Skip the parking scramble
Ohio Stadium sits on the banks of the Olentangy River on Ohio State's sprawling campus, making it accessible but requiring a plan. Driving in, expect heavy congestion on routes like Olentangy River Road and Lane Avenue starting three hours before kickoff. Paid parking lots surround campus, typically ranging from $20 to $60, with the closest lots filling first. COTA, Columbus's public bus system, runs enhanced game day service along several routes. Rideshare works well if you set your drop-off point east of High Street to avoid the worst traffic. Many locals simply walk from the Short North or campus-area neighborhoods.
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Park in the Ohio Expo Center lots south of campus for cheaper rates and a manageable 15-minute walk to the stadium.
Frequently asked questions
Where can I park near Ohio Stadium?
SpotHero has the best selection of pre-booked lots and garages near Ohio Stadium. Game day lots sell out by Thursday or Friday — reserve your spot in advance to guarantee your space and lock in the best rate.
How much does parking cost near Ohio Stadium on game day?
Game day parking near Ohio Stadium typically runs $15–$40 depending on proximity and matchup size. Pre-booking on SpotHero locks in rates before game-day demand drives prices up.
How early should I arrive to park near Ohio Stadium?
For Ohio State home games, plan to arrive 2–3 hours before kickoff. For big rivalry games or top-25 matchups, give yourself even more time — tailgate traffic near Ohio Stadium backs up quickly.
Can I pre-book parking near Ohio Stadium?
Yes — SpotHero lets you reserve a guaranteed spot near Ohio Stadium days or weeks ahead. Pre-booking is cheaper than walk-up rates and eliminates the stress of searching for parking on game day.
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