Hodges Stadium

Hodges Stadium Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Comprehensive Guide to Jacksonville’s Premier Athletic Venue

Date: 03/07/2025

Introduction to Hodges Stadium

Nestled within the University of North Florida (UNF) campus, Hodges Stadium stands as one of Jacksonville’s most significant multi-purpose sports and community venues. Since its opening in 2004, the stadium has become a focal point for collegiate athletics, major national events, professional soccer, and vibrant community gatherings. Named in honor of philanthropists George and Kernan Hodges, the stadium features a seating capacity of around 12,000, a nine-lane Olympic-quality track, and a FIFA-certified natural grass soccer pitch—attributes that have garnered it recognition as a regional powerhouse for athletic excellence and civic engagement (UNF Ospreys Athletics, Tridence).

Hodges Stadium’s strategic location ensures easy access via major highways and public transportation, with ample parking and full ADA accessibility. Visitors can further enrich their experience by exploring nearby Jacksonville attractions such as the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens and the Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens (interpcan.ca).

This guide details everything you need to plan your visit, including operating hours, ticket purchasing, directions, notable events, stadium amenities, and nearby attractions.

History and Origins
Visitor Information: Hours, Tickets, and Accessibility
Directions and Travel Tips
Facility Enhancements and Features
Signature Sporting and Community Events
Photographic Spots and Best Viewing Areas
Nearby Attractions
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Notable Events and Milestones
Legacy and Future Prospects
Visitor Recommendations and Summary
References

History and Origins

Completed in 2004 as part of UNF’s commitment to athletic advancement and community engagement, Hodges Stadium was named for local benefactors George and Kernan Hodges. Its design features a world-class, nine-lane track and a FIFA-certified soccer pitch, positioning it as a premier destination for both track & field and soccer in Northeast Florida.

Visitor Information: Hours, Tickets, and Accessibility

Visiting Hours

Hodges Stadium is open to the public during scheduled athletic competitions and special events. Typical opening hours are from 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM on weekdays during event days, with extended hours on weekends. For up-to-date information, always check the UNF Athletics event calendar.

Ticketing

Ticket prices vary based on event and seating selection. Collegiate matches are generally affordable, while major events such as Sporting JAX professional soccer games offer tiered pricing, including special season packages. Purchase tickets:

Online via the UNF Athletics website
At the stadium box office during events
For Sporting JAX, visit the official ticket portal

Early purchase is strongly advised for high-demand events.

Accessibility and Parking

Hodges Stadium is fully ADA-compliant, offering accessible seating, ramps, and restrooms. Ample parking is available throughout the UNF campus, with additional lots and shuttle services during larger events. Arrive early on major event days to secure parking.

Directions and Travel Tips

Located at 1 UNF Drive, Jacksonville, FL 32224, the stadium is accessible via Gate Parkway or I-295. Public transportation options, including local bus routes, provide convenient alternatives. For large events, utilize campus maps and parking guides from the UNF website to streamline your visit.

Facility Enhancements and Features

Since its inauguration, Hodges Stadium has undergone significant upgrades:

Track Surface: Installation of a Mondo Super X Performance track in 2008, ideal for world-class athletic competitions.
Amenities: Modern locker rooms, the Browning Athletic Training and Education Center, press boxes, hospitality suites, and advanced lighting and sound systems.
Recent Upgrades: In 2025, UNF Athletics announced enhancements to training facilities and fan amenities, partly funded by the #904Day initiative (UNF Ospreys).

Signature Sporting and Community Events

Collegiate and Youth Athletics

UNF Ospreys: Home to men’s and women’s soccer and track & field teams, regularly hosting NCAA regional and conference championships.
Track & Field Hub: Since 2023, it’s the permanent site for FHSAA State Championships and a venue for USATF and Olympic qualifying events.
Bob Hayes Invitational: Celebrates its 50th anniversary in 2025, drawing athletes from across the nation (Live Ball Sports).

Professional Soccer

Sporting JAX: Starting August 2025, the stadium hosts Jacksonville’s first professional women’s soccer team in the USL Super League, including international preseason matches (Tridence).

National Championships

AAU Track & Field Nationals: From July 5–12, 2025, the stadium welcomes thousands for the AAU Primary Nationals and Club Championships (AAU Sports Hotels).

Community and Cultural Events

Special Olympics: Regularly hosts inclusive events with full ADA access (interpcan.ca).
Concerts, Festivals, and Charity Runs: The stadium transforms for large-scale performances, food festivals, and holiday celebrations, fostering community spirit.

Photographic Spots and Best Viewing Areas

The west stands offer prime views of the field and track, perfect for action photography and enjoying the vibrant event atmosphere. The stadium’s open design also provides scenic vistas of the UNF campus and Jacksonville skyline.

Nearby Attractions

Enhance your Hodges Stadium visit by exploring:

Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens
Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens
Jacksonville Arboretum & Gardens
Beaches and Riverside neighborhood

These destinations are within a short drive, offering cultural, recreational, and natural highlights.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are Hodges Stadium’s visiting hours?
A: The stadium opens for scheduled events, typically an hour before start time. Check the UNF Athletics calendar for details.

Q: How do I buy tickets?
A: Purchase tickets online via the UNF Athletics website, Sporting JAX portal, or at the box office on event days.

Q: Is Hodges Stadium accessible?
A: Yes. The stadium is fully ADA compliant, with ramps, elevators, accessible seating, and restrooms.

Q: Is parking available?
A: Ample on-site parking is provided, with shuttle services for larger events.

Q: Are food and drinks available?
A: Multiple concession stands offer a variety of refreshments during events.

Q: Can I bring a tent or umbrella?
A: Tents are allowed in designated Tent City areas (no stakes); umbrellas are permitted on the grandstand’s second level (AAU Entry Packet PDF).

Notable Events and Milestones

2004: Stadium opens as a premier sports venue.
2008: Mondo Super X Performance track installed.
2012–2019: Hosts NCAA Track & Field East Preliminaries and other national events.
2023: Becomes permanent FHSAA State Championships site.
2025: Hosts Sporting JAX’s USL Super League debut and the 50th Bob Hayes Invitational.

Legacy and Future Prospects

As Jacksonville develops new sports facilities, including a forthcoming soccer-specific stadium, Hodges Stadium remains integral to the city’s athletic and cultural life. Its blend of modern infrastructure, historical significance, and community focus ensures it will continue to serve as a hub for sports, entertainment, and civic pride.

Visitor Recommendations and Summary

Hodges Stadium exemplifies Jacksonville’s dedication to athletic excellence, community engagement, and economic vitality. With its modern amenities, accessibility, and proximity to key attractions, it offers something for everyone—whether you’re a sports fan, tourist, or local resident. For a seamless visit:

Check event schedules and ticket options in advance (UNF Ospreys Athletics, Sporting JAX Tickets).
Download the Audiala app for real-time updates and ticket purchasing.
Explore nearby Jacksonville destinations to complement your stadium experience.

Hodges Stadium invites you to be part of Jacksonville’s inspiring journey—whether cheering at a high-stakes meet, supporting women’s professional soccer, or enjoying a community festival.