Wisconsin Badger Football at Camp Randall: A Family Guide

Planning a family trip to see the Wisconsin Badgers play at Camp Randall Stadium? You're in for a treat! As one of America's premier college football destinations, Madison offers an incredible experience that goes far beyond just watching a game. Here's everything you need to know to make your family's Badger game day absolutely magical.

Camp Randall Stadium isn't just a football venue—it's a piece of Wisconsin history that brings families together. With over 80,000 fans creating an electric atmosphere, the stadium has been recognized by Sports Illustrated, NCAA, and USA Today as one of the best college football experiences in America. The famous "Jump Around" tradition alone makes this a must-see event for kids and adults alike!

The best part? The atmosphere is genuinely family-friendly throughout most of the stadium, making it accessible and exciting for children of all ages.

Getting Your Tickets

Single-Game Tickets

Most families will find single-game tickets in the upper deck sections, which still offer great views of all the action. You can purchase through:

• Official site: uwbadgers.evenue.net

• Third-party platforms: StubHub and SeatGeek often have competitive prices

Pro tip: Look for weekday games or matchups against lesser-known teams for better deals!

Group Tickets

Planning to go with extended family or friends? Group tickets (minimum 15 people) save you $10 per ticket and are typically located in the upper deck.

Where to Stay: Hotels with Game Day Perks

Several Madison hotels offer shuttle services directly to Camp Randall Stadium, which can be a game-changer for families:

The Edgewater: Offers complimentary shuttles for guests (starts 2 hours before kickoff, runs every 30 minutes). Non-guests can purchase wristbands for $12 (kids 12 and under ride free).

The Madison Concourse Hotel: Downtown location with game day shuttle service.

Other great options: The Graduate Hotel and Wisconsin Union Hotel offer walkable access to campus and State Street.

Getting There: Transportation Made Easy

Parking Strategy

• Lots open at 7 AM (6 AM for 11 AM games)

• Arrive early for best availability

• Budget $5-$50 depending on the lot

• All payments are cashless (credit cards, Apple Pay, Google Pay accepted)

Shuttle Services

The Bucky Shuttle costs $10 per person (all ages) for round-trip service. It runs 2 hours before kickoff and up to 1 hour after the game.

Walking is Your Friend

Following the crowds on foot is often the most efficient way to get around the stadium area and adds to the authentic game day experience!

Pre-Game Fun: Badger Bash and More

Badger Bash - The Perfect Family Tailgate

This FREE official tailgate party happens 2.5 hours before every home game at Union South, just steps from the stadium. Your family can enjoy:

• UW-Madison Marching Band performance

• Spirit Squad demonstrations

• Live music and entertainment

• Food and beverage vendors

• Games and activities for kids

• Photo opportunities with Bucky Badger!

Exploring Madison Before Game Time

For early arrivals:

• Breakfast spots: Try Mickie's Dairy Bar (cash only!) for amazing pancakes and scramblers

• Capitol Square: Visit the Saturday farmers market if you're there for a weekend game

• Henry Vilas Zoo: Free admission and perfect for kids

• Memorial Union Terrace: Beautiful lake views

Inside the Stadium: What Families Need to Know

Entry Requirements

• Gates open 1.5 hours before kickoff

• Clear bag policy: One small purse (6.5" x 4.5") plus one clear bag (12" x 6" x 12")

• Metal detectors at all entrances

• No re-entry once you leave

Important Items NOT Allowed

• Strollers, car seats, or baby carriers

• Outside food or beverages

• Umbrellas

• Video cameras

Family-Friendly Amenities

• First Aid Stations: Three locations throughout the stadium

• Family Restrooms: Multiple locations with diaper changing stations

• Lactation Room: Available at Gate 10

• Lost Child ID Wristbands: Free from Guest Services (highly recommended!)

Food and Drinks

The stadium is completely cashless, so bring cards or mobile payment. Family favorites include:

• Pizza slices ($7.50)

• Hot dogs ($4.50) and brats ($5.75)

• Cheese curds ($8.75) - a Wisconsin must-try!

• Popcorn ($4) and nachos ($5)

• Gluten-free and vegetarian options available

The Traditions You Can't Miss

"Jump Around"

Between the third and fourth quarters, 80,000 fans literally jump to House of Pain's "Jump Around." The stadium actually shakes!

Important for families: This gets VERY loud. Bring ear protection for young children to prevent hearing damage.

Fifth Quarter

Stay after the game ends! About 30,000-40,000 fans remain for up to 45 minutes to sing and dance with the marching band. It's an incredible post-game celebration that kids absolutely love.

The Arch March

About 2 hours before kickoff, watch the team walk under the historic Camp Randall Memorial Arch. Fans can walk under it too for good luck!

Keeping Kids Comfortable and Safe

Noise Protection

Camp Randall gets extremely loud. Pack earplugs or over-ear earmuffs for children to protect their hearing, especially during "Jump Around."

Safety Tips

• Get those free ID wristbands for young kids at Guest Services

• Know where the family restrooms are located

• Stay hydrated (bring empty water bottles to fill up inside)

• Plan for bathroom breaks - lines can be long during halftime

Seating Considerations

Avoid the student sections (sections J through P) with young children. The end zone opposite the student section is typically more family-friendly.

After the Game: Exploring Madison

Must-Try Local Food

• Ian's Pizza By the Slice: Voted Wisconsin's best pizza

• Dotty Dumpling's Dowry: Incredible burgers

• The Old Fashioned: Famous for cheese curds and brandy old-fashioneds

• State Street Brats: Perfect for trying Wisconsin's signature dish

Family Activities

• Wisconsin State Capitol: Free tours and observation deck

• Madison Children's Museum: Interactive exhibits

• Lake Mendota: Rent kayaks or paddleboards

• UW-Madison Arboretum: Over 20 miles of trails

Money-Saving Tips for Families

1. Pack smart: Bring items in clear bags to avoid buying overpriced stadium goods

2. Eat before or after: Stadium food is pricey, so plan a big meal before or celebrate afterward

3. Look for hotel packages: Some include parking or shuttle services

4. Consider group tickets: Save $10 per person with a group of 15+

5. Check third-party sites: Sometimes better deals than official sources

Planning Your Perfect Game Day Timeline

3-4 hours before kickoff: Arrive in Madison, check into hotel 2.5 hours before: Head to Badger Bash for pre-game fun 2 hours before: Watch the Arch March 1.5 hours before: Enter stadium, get settled, use restrooms Game time: Enjoy the experience, participate in traditions After final whistle: Stay for Fifth Quarter celebration Post-game: Explore Madison's dining scene

Final Family Tips

• Weather: Madison weather can be unpredictable. Dress in layers and check the forecast

• Comfort: Bring seat cushions and blankets for those metal bleachers

• Patience: Expect crowds and plan extra time for everything

• Attitude: Embrace the chaos - it's all part of the experience!

Attending a Wisconsin Badgers game is more than just watching football—it's participating in a beloved Wisconsin tradition that creates lifelong family memories. From the spine-tingling "Jump Around" to the heartwarming Fifth Quarter celebration, Camp Randall Stadium offers an authentic slice of Midwest hospitality and college football passion.

Pack your red and white, bring your loudest cheers, and get ready for an unforgettable family adventure in Madison. On Wisconsin!

Ready to plan your Badgers game day adventure? Start by checking the official schedule at uwbadgers.com and booking your accommodations early - Madison hotels fill up fast on game weekends!