Jack Trice Stadium, Ames, Iowa
Jack Trice Stadium is a college football venue and historic landmark at 1800 S 4th Street, Ames, IA 50011. It opened in 1975 and has a capacity of 61,500; it is also described as having a capacity of over 61,000 and ranks among the largest stadiums in the Big 12 Conference (Discover Ames; Stadium Journey; Sportskeeda).
Named for Jack Trice, Iowa State University’s first Black athlete, the stadium is described as the only Division I Football Bowl Subdivision stadium named for a Black individual. It is also described as the only major college football stadium named for a Black individual (Smithsonian Magazine; SI.com; CBS News).
History and legacy
Jack Trice was born in Ohio in 1902 and became Iowa State University’s first Black athlete in 1923. During his debut varsity football game against Minnesota, he suffered fatal injuries and died at age 21. His legacy is associated with courage in the face of racial adversity and his determination to represent his race, family, and university with honor (Smithsonian Magazine; SI.com).
Interest in Trice’s story was revived by students and faculty in the 1950s. Advocacy, particularly during the civil rights era, led to the field being named “Jack Trice Field” in 1988. After 24 years of student-led campaigns, the stadium was officially named “Jack Trice Stadium” in 1997 (CBS News).
The stadium symbolizes progress, remembrance, and ongoing efforts to confront racial injustice in sports. The Jack Trice Legacy Game, centennial tributes, public art, and educational programs keep his story in view. His descendants, including George Trice, and the Trice Legacy Foundation continue to advocate for his recognition. Iowa State’s archives and educational work also foster dialogue about race, perseverance, and equality (SI.com; CBS News).
What to see
The “Breaking Barriers” sculpture and “Jack Trice Way” are prominent features that anchor Trice’s legacy in the campus landscape and symbolize inclusion and progress. The stadium has natural grass, described as having award-winning maintenance, and three-level video boards at each end zone. Its modern design and amenities make it a sports venue as well as a place of commemoration (Stadium Journey).
Visiting information
Hours, events, and tours
The stadium is open to visitors on event days and for select special tours. On game days, gates open 90 minutes before kickoff; non-game-day hours vary. Guided tours are available seasonally and occasionally during the off-season or special events. The stadium also hosts concerts and other special events. Check the Iowa State Athletics website for current hours, tour information, and booking.
Tickets and seating
Tickets are mobile-only and accessed through the ISU Cyclones App or online Account Manager. They are available through the Iowa State Cyclones website, authorized vendors, or trusted marketplaces. Purchasing early is recommended for the best selection, especially for high-demand games (Cyclones.com Tickets).
Reported prices for upper-level seats are $30–$40; premium seating costs more. Seating includes reserved and general-admission options, with described sightlines throughout the stadium.
Premium options include:
- Jack Trice Club On the east side, with panoramic views and a Cyclone helmet display; $1,750 per seat per season. Premium benefits include reserved parking and club access (Cyclone Club).
- Sukup End Zone Club On the south side, with 3,000 premium seats, climate control, and Wi-Fi.
- Suites On the west side; private and climate-controlled, with long-term or single-game leases.
Accessibility and amenities
The stadium is ADA-compliant, with accessible seating and restrooms, elevators at Gates 1 and 3, courtesy carts, and assistive listening devices. It also has wide concourses and clear signage. Contact guest services for special accommodations (Cyclones.com Accessibility).
The venue is cashless: card or mobile payment is required. Complimentary Wi-Fi is available in premium areas.
Parking and transportation
Official parking lots open six hours before kickoff; prepaid options are available (Ames Stadium Parking). Reported parking prices vary: one listing gives $20–$25 near the stadium, with parking reserved for season ticket holders; another gives $25 per vehicle for official lots; an FAQ lists multiple official lots at $10–$25 and says free lots are also available but fill early (Stadium Journey).
The CyRide bus system serves the area on multiple routes (Audiala). Rideshare drop-off is designated at CY Stephens Auditorium.
Tailgating and fan traditions
Tailgating lots open at 6 a.m. on game days; tailgating is also described as starting six hours before kickoff. Traditions include the Spirit Walk, ESPN College GameDay broadcasts, and lively fan engagement (Black Heart Gold Pants).
Families
Strollers are not permitted inside the stadium; carriers are recommended. Family-friendly tailgating and lively fan experiences are among the kid-friendly features. Restrooms are accessible and plentiful.
Tips
Arrive early to avoid traffic and enjoy pre-game festivities. Suggested photo spots include the main entrance, the “Breaking Barriers” sculpture, and “Jack Trice Way”; sunset shots highlight the stadium’s architecture.
Nearby places in Ames
Campanile at Iowa State University
The Campanile grounds are open from dawn to dusk year-round. The interior is accessible only during special events. The grounds are free to visit, and special tours are announced on the Events page. The tower has a 50-bell carillon with regular concerts, and the grounds are wheelchair-accessible. Visitors generally cannot climb the Campanile except during special tours (Iowa State University).
Other attractions
- Reiman Gardens Botanical exhibits and a butterfly wing (Reiman Gardens).
- Ames History Museum Local history exhibits (Ames History Museum).
- Downtown Ames Shops and restaurants (LetsGoIowa).
- Farm House Museum Farm House Museum.
Dining and accommodation near the Campanile
Campustown dining options include Jeff’s Pizza Shop, Cafe Beaudelaire, and Thai Kitchen. Nearby hotels listed are Courtyard by Marriott Ames, Comfort Inn & Suites, Best Western Plus University Park Inn & Suites, and Iowa House.
CYTown
CYTown is set to open in Fall 2027. The entertainment district between Jack Trice Stadium and Hilton Coliseum will include a Marriott hotel, amphitheater, restaurants, and retail (Sports Business Journal).
Frequently asked questions
What are Jack Trice Stadium’s visiting hours?
The stadium is open on event days and for select tours. Gates open 90 minutes before kickoff, while non-game-day hours vary. Check the Iowa State Athletics website for current information.
How do I buy tickets?
Tickets are mobile-only through the ISU Cyclones App or online Account Manager. They are also available through the official website, authorized vendors, or trusted marketplaces (Cyclones.com Tickets).
Are guided tours available?
Yes. Tours are available seasonally and occasionally during the off-season or special events; check the athletics website for booking.
Can I tailgate?
Yes. Tailgating lots open at 6 a.m. on game days, and tailgating is also described as starting six hours before kickoff.
Is the stadium accessible?
Yes. Accessible seating and restrooms, courtesy carts, elevators at Gates 1 and 3, and assistive listening devices are available (Cyclones.com Accessibility).
Where can I park?
There are multiple official lots, with reported prices of $10–$25, $20–$25 near the stadium, or $25 per vehicle. Free lots are also listed and fill early. Official lots open six hours before kickoff, and prepaid options are available.
What else is there to do in Ames?
Visit Reiman Gardens, the Ames History Museum, downtown Ames, the Farm House Museum, or the Campanile.
Can visitors climb the Campanile, and is there a fee to visit?
Visitors generally cannot climb it except during special tours. The grounds are free to visit.
