Ryan Field Accessibility
Ryan Field Stadium Map
Ryan Field Transportation Information
Questions? Call 888-GO-PURPLE (467-8775) or email cat-tix@northwestern.edu
Football Fan Guide from A to Z
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z
A
ADA Parking and Guest Drop Off
Patrons parking elsewhere but needing to drop off a guest with accessible needs can utilize the ADA drop-off area on Ashland Avenue near Gate M.
Season permit accessible parking is located in both the east and west parking lots (subject to availability).
Single day-of-game accessible parking is available at the St. Athanasius Lot as needed on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Transportation is also provided from the St. Athanasius parking lot location to the stadium.
Advance Ticket Sales/General Ticket Information
The Athletic Ticket Office is open weekdays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. It is located inside Welsh-Ryan Arena. On game days, the ticket office is located in the lobby of Welsh-Ryan Arena, and opens three (3) hours prior to kickoff and remains open for 30 minutes after the conclusion of the game. For further information, please call 888-GO-PURPLE (467-8775) or email us at cat-tix@northwestern.edu.
Alcoholic Beverages
Alcoholic Beverages are prohibited in Ryan Field.
ATMs
ATMs are located inside Ryan Field near Gate H and Gate R
Automobile Trouble
A guest who experiences automobile trouble while parked in a University lot should contact a University police officer or call the University Police at (847) 491-3456. In an emergency, call 911.
Away Games
Away game tickets are only available to season ticket holders and NU Athletic Department Donors. The Northwestern Alumni Association sponsors several away game tailgates, which include a game ticket. For more information, please visit http://alumni.northwestern.edu.
Return to A to Z index
B
Baby Changing Stations
On the east side, Baby Changing stations can be found in the women's restrooms near the following sections: 105, 107, 110, and upper 111. They can be found in the Men's restrooms near sections 105, upper 111, and upper 108.
On the west side, baby changing stations can be found in the women's restrooms near the following sections: 128, 130, 228, upper 129, the North Tower and South Tower.
Bag Policy
Each ticket holder can bring in one large clear bag, either a one-gallon Ziploc-style bag or a 12" by 6" by 12" clear bag, plus a small clutch. The larger clear bag must be a standard 12" by 6" by 12" bag made of clear PVC vinyl and is easily searched. The one-gallon Ziploc-style bag is readily available, inexpensive and easily searched. The small clutch allows privacy for small personal items and is easily searched. For more information, visit this page dedicated to our Clear Bag Policy.
Banners & Signs
Banners and signs are prohibited in Ryan Field. Guests will be asked to dispose of signs and banners in trash containers or return them to their vehicle.
Birthday Messages
Wildcats fans enjoy celebrating their birthdays at Ryan Field. Now you can make the day even more special when you place birthday wishes on the scoreboard for everyone to see. Congratulatory and welcome messages are also available. There is a $50 fee for all scoreboard messages. For more information, please contact an account executive at 888-GO-PURPLE (467-8775).
Bottles & Cans
Bottles and cans are prohibited in Ryan Field. Guests will be asked to dispose of bottles and cans in a trash container.
Broadcast
Television and radio broadcasts and times are generally announced ten days prior to the game. Please visit the football schedule page at NUsports.com for the most up-to-date information.
Return to A to Z index
C
Cameras
Hand-held still cameras are permitted for personal use. Cameras with large lenses and video cameras are prohibited. Camera lenses cannot be longer than six inches, anything longer will not be allowed into the stadium. Any commercial photography is prohibited. Event Staff members are authorized to evict guests violating these photographic policies.
Camps
For more information about the variety of camps our coaches offer please visit: /sports/2015/3/18/GEN_2014010174.aspx.
Cellular Phones
Use of cellular phones is permitted providing their use does not interfere with another guest's ability to enjoy the atmosphere of Ryan Field.
Chairbacks
Wildcats season-ticket holders may purchase a chairback for the entire season. Day of game chairback rentals are also available for $10. For more information, email cat-tix@northwestern.edu.
Personal chairbacks with metal frames, enclosed pockets (mesh pockets are permissible) or in a zippered case are not permitted in Ryan Field. Seat cushions can be brought into the stadium so long as the dimensions fit entirely within the ticket-holders allotted seat and does not inhibit other guests in any way.
Children and Infant Ticket Policy
All persons, regardless of age, must hold a ticket. For children ages 2 and under, a $10 "lap ticket" is available only on the day of the game. Lap tickets may be purchased at any ticket window the day of the game - the ticket office is open three hours prior to kickoff.
Community Relations
If your nonprofit organization is seeking a donation of game tickets, please send a formal letter of request to:
Community Relations
NU Athletic Department
1501 Central Street
Evanston, IL 60208
If you have further questions, please contact the Community Relations Department by emailing catsgiveback@northwestern.edu or by calling 847-467-3302. For more information on the 'Cats Give Back program, click here.
Concessions
Please visit the Levy Concessions page for details on gameday offerings at Ryan Field.
Corporate Sponsorships
For information regarding corporate sponsorships, please contact Northwestern Sports Properties at (847) 491-6698.
Return to A to Z index
D
Directions
Disabled Guest Drop Off
The drop-off area is on Ashland Avenue near Gate M.
Disabled Parking
Single day-of-game accessible parking is available at the St. Athanasius Lot as needed on a first-come, first-serve basis.. Season-permit disabled parking is located in both the east and west parking lots.
Disabled Seating
Disabled seating is located in rows 1-4 of sections 107 through 109 on the east side of the field, in rows 1-4 of sections 128-130 on the west side, and in rows 36-38 of section 126 on the west side.
Return to A to Z index
E
Elevators
Elevators are located on the west side of the field between Gates N and S. Elevator access is restricted to members of the working media holding credentials, Wildcat Den and Stadium Club ticket holders, and elderly and disabled fans with "elevator access" stamped tickets. For more information, contact the ticket office at 888-GO-PURPLE (467-8775).
Emergency Procedures
In the event of an emergency at Ryan Field, please follow the directions from ushers. If an emergency requires evacuation from the stadium, directions will be given over the public address system. Please contact an usher if you have any questions.
Return to A to Z index
F
Fan Services Booths (Wintrust Fan Service Stations)
Fan Services Booths (Wintrust Fan Service Stations) can be found in Ryan Field near Sections 109, 117 and 129, and outside of Ryan Field near the Central Street CTA stop (Purple Line). Fans can also visit the Fan Services Office located at the far south end of Ryan Field near Gate K. All fans with a question or concern are encouraged to visit a Wintrust Fan Service Station for assistance.
First Aid
First Aid is located by Gate R on the west side of the stadium. Paramedic stations are located on the northwest and southwest corners of the playing field.
Return to A to Z index
G
Gates Open
Gates open ninety minutes prior to kick off. Please enter the stadium through the gate indicated on your ticket. Northwestern undergraduate students must enter through Gate G.
Group Tickets
Group tickets and hospitality are available for most games. Please contact the Athletic Ticket Office at 888-GO-PURPLE (467-8775) or refer to the Group Ticket Information page for more information.
Guest Conduct
Northwestern Wildcats football should be an enjoyable experience for all fans. In order to promote athletic excellence and fan enjoyment, we ask for your assistance in displaying a high degree of respect and sportsmanship at all times. If a patron displays conduct which endangers or disrupts players, coaches, officials, or other patrons, Northwestern University reserves the right to remove the individual from Ryan Field. No refunds will be granted in such cases.
Return to A to Z index
H
Hotel Accommodations
Please check out our Travel Center for hotel information.
Return to A to Z index
I
Infant Tickets
Per Big Ten Conference rules, all guests must purchase a ticket regardless of age, even babies. Northwestern has created a $10 infant "lap ticket" available for purchase on gameday only. Lap tickets may be purchased at any ticket window the day of the game - the ticket office is open three hours prior to kickoff.
Return to A to Z index
J
Join the Wildcat Fund -- Are You In?
The Wildcat Excellence Fund is an unrestricted annual fund which supports nearly 500 Northwestern student-athletes in 19 sports. Contributions to the Excellence Fund are allocated to areas such as academic services, sports performance, and sports medicine that provide support for all of our student-athletes. By giving to the Excellence Fund, you are making a difference for every Northwestern student-athlete to ensure that they have a world-class experience. Visit
SupportTheCats.com to learn more or
click here to make a gift.
Return to A to Z index
K
Kids' Club
Do you know a child in 8th grade and under who loves the Wildcats? Sign them up to be a part of Willie's Kids' Club. Willie's Kids' Club members receive special Wildcat gifts, free tickets to events and invitations to exclusive events. If you would like more information about the Willie's Kids' Club or to request a membership application, please contact the Willie's Kids' Club Office at (847) 467-6862 or via email at wildcatmarketing@northwestern.edu.
Return to A to Z index
L
Lost & Found
Lost items may be turned into the Athletic Ticket Office at the south end of Ryan Field or inside the lobby of Welsh-Ryan Arena, or the Fan Services Booths (Wintrust Fan Service Stations) in Ryan Field near Sections 109, 117 and 129, and outside of Ryan Field near the Central Street CTA stop (Purple Line). All unclaimed items remaining after gameday will be turned into the NU Athletic Facilities Office at (847) 491-7887.
Return to A to Z index
M
Merchandise
Grab all your favorite Wildcats merchandise at the Northwestern Athletics Merchandise stands located by Gates F and P in the outer concourse of the stadium, and by Gate N outside of the stadium. Under Armour is the official outfitter of the 'Cats. Pick up the latest gear inside the stadium, or at Let's Tailgate (1805 Central Street, Evanston, IL), the official merchandiser of Northwestern Athletics. Shop online here.
Return to A to Z index
N
N ZONE Tailgate
The N Zone returns for its second season outside Ryan Field and will be located in the Southeast corner. Fans can enjoy food trucks, beer and wine sales, a live WGN Remote broadcast each week and large screen televisions to keep tabs on the action around the country. The N Zone opens three hours before kickoff.
Northwestern University (Mailing Address)
Marketing Department
1501 Central Street
Evanston, IL 60208
Return to A to Z index
O
On-field Access
Only authorized personnel will be permitted on the field before, during, or after a game. Any unauthorized person going onto the field will be removed from the stadium and subject to arrest.
Out of Town Scores
Out of town scores (scores from around the Big Ten and Top 25) will be posted on the scoreboards during various times of the game.
Return to A to Z index
P
Parking
For complete information on parking, visit our Gameday Transportation Page.
Programs
The official Yearbook and game program of Wildcats Football are available at merchandise stands as well as throughout Ryan Field. The Yearbook is an annual publication while game programs are unique for each home game. To purchase a program once a game has passed, please send your request to wildcatmarketing@northwestern.edu.
Prohibited Items
Common items that spectators are prohibited from bringing into Ryan Field include, but are not limited to:
*Bags other than those allowed under Northwestern's Clear Bag Policy
*Alcoholic beverages
*Umbrellas
*Noisemakers including cowbells, musical instruments or horns
*Banners, flags, or signs
*Video cameras, televisions, large lens cameras, tripods, or large radios
*Cans, glasses, thermoses, picnic baskets, ice chests, wine skins, food, drinks or coolers
*Outside food and beverage
Storage of these items for guests will not be provided.
Promotional Items/ Dates
Promotional items have individual restrictions and give away dates are subject to change without prior notice. Please remember that a game ticket does not ensure or entitle the holder to a promotional item on that date and that only one item will be distributed per person. Please be considerate of other guests by taking only one promotional item.
Public Address
No appeals will be made over the public address system except under extraordinary circumstances. Requests of an emergency nature should be addressed to the nearest usher or to security personnel.
Return to A to Z index
Q
Questions
Any questions not answered in this fan guide may be directed to the Athletic Ticket Office at 888-GO-PURPLE (467-8775) or via email at cat-tix@northwestern.edu.
Return to A to Z index
R
Radios/Televisions
Large radios and large televisions are not permitted in Ryan Field. Wildcats Football games can be found on WGN Radio 720. Visit Northwestern Athletics On the Air for the full television schedule.
Recycling Bins
Guests are encouraged to recycle their soda and water bottles in the recycling bins throughout the concourse. Recycling bins are also located throughout the parking lots for those tailgating.
Re-entry
Patrons who choose to leave Ryan Field during the game will not be allowed to re-enter.
Relocation Policy
NU Athletics reserves the right to enforce reserved seating if crowd control or safety issues dictate the necessity. The University reserves the right to relocate ticket holder(s) to an alternate seat location(s) at its discretion based upon conduct, apparel or other reasons.
Restrooms
Restrooms are located throughout Ryan Field. All restrooms are handicap accessible. For a full map, click here.
RV Parking
RV Parking is available on a first-come, first-served basis in the surface parking lot at Noyes and Sheridan streets (no parking prior to 4 p.m. on Friday).
Return to A to Z index
S
Schedules
Pocket schedules are available at the Athletic Ticket Office or by calling 888-GO-PURPLE (467-8775).
Season Tickets
Please contact the Athletic Ticket Office at 888-GO-PURPLE (467-8775) for information regarding prices or seat locations, or refer to Season Ticket Information.
Seatbacks
Wildcats season-ticket holders may purchase a seatback for the entire season. Day of game seatback rentals are also available for $10. For more information, email cat-tix@northwestern.edu.
Personal seatbacks with metal frames, enclosed pockets (mesh pockets are permissible) or in a zippered case are not permitted in Ryan Field. Seat cushions can be brought into the stadium so long as the dimensions fit entirely within the ticket-holders allotted seat and does not inhibit other guests in any way. Seatbacks can be rented on the day of the game for $10.
Seating Chart
Service Dogs
Animals are not permitted within Ryan Field with the exception of certified service dogs for guests with disabilities. Please contact the Northwestern Ticket Office at 888-GO-PURPLE (467-8775) to make arrangements prior to the game.
Smoking
Smoking is NOT permitted anywhere at Ryan Field. Guests who choose to leave Ryan Field to smoke will not be allowed to re-enter. We ask for your cooperation in enforcing this policy.
Social Media
For all Northwestern Athletics in-game updates, follow @NUFBFamily and @NU_Sports on Twitter. For a complete list of Northwestern Athletics on social media, visit our Social Media central.
Souvenirs
Grab all your favorite Wildcats merchandise at the Northwestern Athletics Merchandise stands located by Gates F and P in the outer concourse of the stadium, and by Gate N outside of the stadium. Under Armour is the official outfitter of the 'Cats. Pick up the latest gear inside the stadium, or at Let's Tailgate (1805 Central Street, Evanston, IL), the official merchandiser of Northwestern Athletics. Shop online here.
Strollers
Strollers are allowed in Ryan Field, but not in the seating area. Strollers may be left at Gate R on the West side of the stadium or Gate E on the east side. Stroller valet is provided free of charge.
Summer Camps
For more information about the variety of camps our coaches offer please visit: /sports/2015/3/18/GEN_2014010174.aspx.
Return to A to Z index
T
Tailgating
Tailgating is permitted in the east and west lots as well as the north and south golf lots (permit only). Guests who do not hold a parking pass for these lots may park in the campus lots where tailgating is permitted as well. Please refer to the Gameday Transportation Hub for more information. Season ticket holder parking lots open four hours before each home game.
Ticket Replacement
Lost, stolen or destroyed tickets will be replaced for a $10 fee. Individuals should call 888-GO-PURPLE (467-8775) for further assistance.
Travel
Please see our Travel section.
Return to A to Z index
U
Under Armour
Under Armour is the official outfitter of Northwestern Athletics. Wildcats merchandise is available at the Northwestern Athletics Merchandise stands located by Gates F and P in the outer concourse of the stadium, and by Gate N outside of the stadium. Pick up the latest gear inside the stadium, or at Let's Tailgate (1805 Central Street, Evanston, IL), the official merchandiser of Northwestern Athletics. Shop online here.
Umbrellas
Umbrellas are not permitted in Ryan Field. There will be no umbrella check available to guests.
Return to A to Z index
V
Video cameras
Video cameras are not permitted in Ryan Field and no storage will be provided for guests. Video cameras are not permitted due to contractual obligations between the Big Ten Conference and television networks.
Return to A to Z index
W
Walk With Us
In honor of the late Coach Randy Walker, all fans are welcome to line Walker Way (located between Ryan Field and Welsh-Ryan Arena) along with the Northwestern Wildcat Marching Band to greet the football team when they arrive at Ryan Field before every home football game. Walk With Us begins approximately two hours and 15 minutes prior to kickoff.
Wildcat Alley
Wildcat Alley is open three hours prior to kickoff at all Northwestern home football games. The alley is located on the football practice field just northeast of Ryan Field between the softball and baseball field. Follow the Wildcat paws from the parking lot through the arch at the entrance.
Will Call (Open 3 hours prior to kickoff)
Everyone must have a Photo ID in order to pick up Will Call and Player Guest Tickets. NO EXCEPTIONS WILL BE MADE. Third party will call (ticket drop offs) ARE NOT accepted.
The general will call windows for football game are located in the lobby of Welsh-Ryan Arena. THIS IS A CHANGE from the previous location next to Gate K.
NU player guest tickets are located at Gate D.
Northwestern full-time undergraduate tickets are located at Gate G (must present a valid WildCARD).
Visitor player guest tickets are located at Gate S.
Press will call is located at Gate N.
Football recruits and high school football coach tickets are located in the east side of the lobby of Welsh-Ryan Arena.
Northwestern non-football recruit tickets are located in the east side of the lobby of Welsh-Ryan Arena.
Willie the Wildcat
The Wildcat mascot was developed in three stages. The nickname "Wildcats" was initiated in 1924. Nine years later, in 1933, the Northwestern Athletic Department teamed up with an advertising firm to create the first caricature of Willie. In 1947, the first mascot was actually brought to life when four members of the Alpha Delta fraternity dressed up as Willie for their Homecoming float.
Return to A to Z index
X
X's & O's
X's & O's and all Wildcat action can be heard on WGN AM Radio 720.
Return to A to Z index
Y
Youth Camps
Youth camps are typically held during the summer. For more information about the variety of camps our coaches offer please visit: /sports/2015/3/18/GEN_2014010174.aspx.
Return to A to Z index
Z
Zero
Zero places are better than Ryan Field to enjoy a game!
Return to A to Z index