Game Day
WELCOME Illini FANS!
Whether you're here to cheer on the Illini football team at the historic Memorial Stadium, rally behind the Fighting Illini Basketball at the State Farm Center or heading to a wrestling or volleyball match, gymnastics meet, baseball or soccer game, or one of the many Illini sports, we're happy to have you here!
We are your one-stop information destination for game day. Know where to stay, where to eat and where to park so you can enjoy your time in the greater Champaign County area! For any additional information on our area, contact us at 1-800-369-6151.
Enjoy your Big Ten experience in Champaign County!
Illinois vs. northwestern Weekend Guide - Momentum is on the Illini side!
Siri, who is the 24th top ranked team in NCAA Basketball? Oh, that's right: The Fighting Illini! After a few huge wins, the team is ready to take on Northwestern at the State Farm Center this weekend. Rankings aside, the Illini team is thriving thanks to great players, coaching, and YOU: the fans! Make the most of the last Saturday game of the season by showing up to cheer on your Fighting Illini Men's Basketball team. Here's the best way to make the most of a weekend here in the C-U for the showdown with the Wildcats.
Before the game
A 4:00 p.m. game time is ideal for a morning and early afternoon of Outside of Ordinary activities! If you're up for a quick run, check out the Frozen 5K, taking place thanks to organization from the Champaign Park District. With the snow in our area this weekend, it's sure to be a wintery adventure. If you're not up for a run but want to get your body moving a bit before the game, Yoga in the Meadow is taking place at Allerton Park. The grounds at Allerton are as historic as they are scenic, so register and bring a mat! Lastly, an incredible experience in our area are the authentic Japanese Tea Ceremonies at Japan House. One of the most ancient and revered arts of Japan, experience the 500+ year old tradition for yourself ahead of tip-off!
After the game
We're going to bank on an Illini victory, which is why this week we're suggesting different ways to celebrate your Saturday night in C-U! If you're up for a bit of entertainment, consider stopping by a Drag Show or local concert to promote a night in defiance of gun violence! If you're coming down with the family, you can also enjoy a show at the Staerkel Planetarium. Lastly, no matter who you're coming to the game with, enjoy one of the many restaurants or bars in C-U that make the area Midwest Living's Best Midwest Food Town, voted and awarded back in 2017.
In terms of where to stay, where to park, what's happening around town on Game Day, and other important information, follow our handy guide below!
HOTEL AVAILABILITY
We have a number of area hotels with availability for the game against Northwestern this Saturday, many of which are very close to the State Farm Center. Give them a call or book directly online. Need assistance? Give us a call at 800-369-6151.
Comfort Suites - 3.6 miles from Memorial Stadium
Courtyard - 3.8 miles from Memorial Stadium
Fairfield - 3.8 miles from Memorial Stadium
Holiday Inn - 3.5 miles from Memorial Stadium
Home2 - 0.9 miles from Memorial Stadium
I Hotel - 0.5 miles from Memorial Stadium
Quality Inn - 3.6 miles from Memorial Stadium
Red Roof Inn - 3.4 miles from Memorial Stadium
Rodeway Inn - 3.6 miles from Memorial Stadium
Parking
Know where the best places to park are before heading over to the game. Find your facilities here.
Clear Bag Policy
If it's been awhile since you've attended an Illini basketball game, you might want to brush up on the relatively new Clear Bag Policy. In short, any bag larger than a 4.5" by 7" clutch must be clear, and not exceed 12" x 6" x 12".
CATERING
Looking to feed a group of people before heading to the game? Check out the wide variety of offerings to make sure you don’t go hungry before the game!
THINGS TO DO
Been awhile since you explored the greater Champaign County area? Check out events happening throughout the time you’re here and request a Visitors Guide to learn more about our Outside of Ordinary community!
PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION
Don't want to deal with parking at the game? Rely on our public transportation to get you to the game. CUMTD has several options to get you close to the action.
GETTING HERE
Champaign County is conveniently located at the intersection of I-74, I-57 and I-72 so no matter where you're coming from, it's easy to get here. We also have Amtrak for a reliable ride or Fly Champaign-Urbana if you're coming from farther away. Click here for more information.