Huntington Bank Stadium & More: Your Guide To Minnesota Football
Could the roar of the crowd, the clash of helmets, and the thrill of victory be more palpable anywhere else? For fans of the gridiron in the heartland, Huntington Bank Stadium, formerly known as TCF Bank Stadium, offers an unmatched game-day experience.
Nestled on the University of Minnesota campus, the stadium, which opened its doors in 2009, stands as a testament to modern architectural prowess. Constructed at a cost of $303.3 million, the impressive brick structure boasts an enormous video board and a unique horseshoe design, affording spectators unobstructed views of the field. This isn't just a stadium; it's an experience, a place where history is made and memories are forged.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | Huntington Bank Stadium (formerly TCF Bank Stadium) |
| Location | University of Minnesota campus, Minneapolis, Minnesota |
| Opened | 2009 |
| Cost of Construction | $303.3 million |
| Primary Tenants | Minnesota Golden Gophers (college football) |
| Capacity | 50,805 (standard seating), expandable to approximately 80,000 |
| Notable Features | Horseshoe design for unobstructed views, enormous video board, private recruiting room accommodating 150 people. |
| Former Tenants | Minnesota Vikings (NFL, temporary home during U.S. Bank Stadium construction in 2014-2015), Minnesota United FC (MLS, temporary home during Allianz Field construction in 2017-2018) |
| Record Attendance | 54,147 (2015 matchup) |
| Design | Impressive brick structure |
| Unique Feature | First new football stadium in the Big Ten since 1960 upon completion. |
The journey to Huntington Bank Stadiums construction was significant for the Golden Gophers and their devoted fanbase. Before the stadium's unveiling, the University of Minnesota hadn't hosted a football game on its campus for nearly three decades. This absence created a palpable anticipation, making the stadium's arrival even more momentous.
The stadiums architecture also reflects its dedication to provide an atmosphere that celebrates the passion of college football. The horseshoe design is an essential element. This configuration promotes an immersive experience for the fans, who are closer to the action and enjoy superior viewing angles.
While it might not replicate the frenetic energy of stadiums found in the Southeastern Conference, Huntington Bank Stadium delivers a unique flavor of Midwestern sports culture. For those seeking an authentic college game-day experience, attending a game here is highly recommended, especially when the Gophers face rivals such as the Wisconsin Badgers or Iowa Hawkeyes. The atmosphere is electric.
Interestingly, before Huntington Bank Stadium became a reality, it wasnt the first time the university had attempted to provide its football team with a dedicated home. In fact, it is the fourth stadium to be built on campus, however, it is the only one designed to regularly hold a crowd of 50,000 or more.
For a time, Blakeslee Stadium served as a different option, though it is located on the Mankato campus of Minnesota State University. Its primary role, still focused on American football, makes it the home field for the Minnesota State Mavericks football team, an NCAA Division II team. Beyond that, it held a significant role for the Minnesota Vikings during their training camp from 1966 to 2017.
While Huntington Bank Stadium is the modern home for the Golden Gophers, another venue reigns supreme in the hearts of many Minnesotans: U.S. Bank Stadium. A state-of-the-art, enclosed stadium located in downtown Minneapolis, U.S. Bank Stadium opened its doors in 2016 and is home to the Minnesota Vikings. It has a seating capacity of approximately 66,800 for football games, with the potential to expand to 73,000 depending on the event. Anyone who's witnessed a Vikings game at U.S. Bank Stadium will eagerly tell you it is one of the greatest football stadiums ever built.
The U.S. Bank Stadium also hosted Minnesota United FC, the local Major League Soccer team, temporarily, during the construction of their dedicated home, Allianz Field, in 2017 and 2018.
The construction of Huntington Bank Stadium was a significant moment, and it marked a new era in Big Ten football. When the project was complete, it stood as the first new football stadium in the conference since 1960. It was also the first in NCAA FBS since 2006, although more stadiums have since been built.
For those seeking to make the most of their visit, finding the best seats is essential. There are various seating options to match any preference and recommendation, designed to provide an unforgettable experience. And for the players, the Gophers private recruiting room offers a dedicated space where they can potentially meet up to 150 people.
The stadiums seating capacity of 50,805 is the standard. However, the record attendance, achieved during a 2015 matchup, was much higher, with 54,147 fans filling the stands. When this occurred, U.S. Bank Stadium, which became the new home for the Vikings, was still under construction.
The legacy of the Metrodome also adds context to this evolution. Commonly referred to as the Metrodome, this domed sports stadium in downtown Minneapolis served as the home for both the Minnesota Vikings and the Minnesota Twins for several years. It was eventually replaced.
In 2017, the Minnesota United FC shared the space for a while, until Allianz Field was complete. The stadium, in fact, offered temporary refuge during the construction of their permanent home. The construction of U.S. Bank Stadium marked a substantial upgrade to the sporting landscape of the city, providing a top-tier facility for the Vikings.
In 2016, stadiums worldwide were eligible for the "Stadium of the Year" competition, and it's interesting to note the impact the various venues were having. While competition between stadiums is fierce, each has its own unique appeal, with the main goal of making its mark on the sport world.
While the main attraction remains the Golden Gophers, the stadium also hosts early-season college baseball games. Its versatility allows it to serve multiple purposes and contributes to its importance in the sporting community.
Beyond the action on the field, the stadium is a focal point for the entire game-day experience. It offers fans an array of activities, tailgating opportunities, and a chance to immerse themselves in the traditions of Minnesota football. The stadium provides an environment where fans and players alike can create unforgettable memories.
As of 2024, the seating capacity of Huntington Bank Stadium is officially 52,525. Nevertheless, on game days, it transforms into a hub of activity and passion.
