Illinois (Champaign, IL)

Distance from Memorial Stadium: 5.2 miles

Address: 11 Airport Rd, Savoy, IL 61874

Airlines: American Airlines

Distance from Memorial Stadium: 50 miles

Address: 3201 Cira Dr, Bloomington, IL 61704

Airlines: Allegiant, American Airlines, Delta Airlines.

Distance from Memorial Stadium: 150 miles

Address:10000 W O’Hare Ave, Chicago, IL 60666

Airlines: Aer Lingus, AeroMexico, Air Canada, Air France, Air India, Air New Zealand, Air Serbia, Alaska Airlines, All Nippon, American Airlines, Austrian Airlines, Avelo Airlines, Avianca Airlines, British Airways, Cathay Pacific Airways, Contour Airlines, Copa Airlines, Delta, Denver Air Connection (Key Lime Air), EVA Air, Emirates, Ethiopian Airlines, Etihad Airways, Finnair, Frontier Airlines, ITA Airways, Iberia Airlines, Icelandair, Japan Airlines, JetBlue, KLM Royal Dutch, Korean Air, LOT Polish Airlines, Lufthansa, Qatar Airways, Royal Jordanian, SWISS, Scandinavian Airlines, Southern Airways Express, Southwest Airlines, Spirit Airlines, Sun Country, TAP Air Portugal, Turkish Airlines, United Airlines, VivaAerobus, Volaris Airlines, WestJet Airlines.

Located directly next to Memorial Stadium, this is the top lodging choice for fans and visiting media. It’s modern, convenient, and the center of pregame energy — book early for gameday weekends.

Just 2 miles from campus in downtown Champaign, the Hyatt offers modern comfort with easy access to bars, restaurants, and nightlife. Ideal if you want to explore the town beyond football.

A reliable midrange option about a mile from campus. Known for friendly staff, free parking, and quick access to both stadium and downtown dining.

• Arrive early for Grange Grove. The heartbeat of Illinois football Saturdays, Grange Grove opens several hours before kickoff and fills fast with tents, grills, food trucks, and live music. Fans gather on the lawn right outside Memorial Stadium, creating one of the Big Ten’s most underrated tailgating scenes.

• Don’t miss the Illini Walk. About two hours before game time, the team arrives at Memorial Stadium and walks through Grange Grove surrounded by fans, cheerleaders, and the Marching Illini. It’s an electric pregame moment that sets the tone for the day.

• Catch the Marching Illini’s pregame and halftime shows. They’re among the most respected college marching bands in the country, performing the traditional “Three-in-One” — a combination of the Illinois Loyalty song, Oskee Wow-Wow, and the Alma Mater. It’s a signature Champaign tradition that alumni look forward to every season.

• Plan ahead for parking. Lots near the stadium and on campus fill up quickly. Fans often reserve spaces in advance through the university’s gameday parking system. Arriving 3–4 hours before kickoff is ideal if you want to tailgate comfortably.

• Dress smart and bring layers. Central Illinois weather can change on a dime — early-season games can feel like summer, but by November, winds off the plains can turn Memorial Stadium into a cold-air tunnel. A hoodie and light jacket combo works best.

• Stay late for the Alma Mater. After every home game, win or lose, the players and band gather to sing “Hail to the Orange” in front of the student section. It’s a heartfelt way to close out the day and a tradition that shows just how proud Illini fans are of their school.

Gies Memorial Stadium is located at 1402 S 1st St, Champaign, IL 61820

Directions, road closures, parking maps and more can be found at the official venue website below.

Black Dog Smoke & Ale House
A local legend with locations in Champaign and Urbana, Black Dog serves award-winning barbecue — think burnt ends, brisket, and house-made sauces. Expect a line on weekends, but it’s well worth the wait.

The Esquire Lounge
A downtown Champaign classic offering burgers, sandwiches, and one of the best beer selections in town. The cozy pub vibe makes it a top pick for postgame food and drinks.

Jarling’s Custard Cup
A Champaign institution since 1949, Jarling’s serves creamy frozen custard in endless flavors — perfect for celebrating a win or cooling off on an early-season gameday.

Seven Saints
Famous for its sliders and bourbon list, this spot combines a warm atmosphere with elevated bar food. Great for a relaxed dinner or drinks with alumni after the game.

Destihl Brewery
Located just off Neil Street, Destihl is a local craft brewery known for its sour ales and creative menu. It’s family-friendly, spacious, and always buzzing on football weekends.

Scout Tip: On the University of Illinois campus, Krannert features rotating exhibits ranging from Renaissance art to modern installations. Free admission makes it an easy cultural stop between events.

The entertainment hub of the twin cities, full of local restaurants, coffee shops, boutiques, and nightlife. During football weekends, the streets buzz with alumni and fans.

Located about 20 minutes west in Champaign County, Alto Vineyards is a relaxed, scenic spot offering local wines, live music, and food trucks on weekends. It’s a great off-campus destination to unwind after a game weekend.