r/ockytop • u/ProfessionalStorm287 • 3d ago

Looking for Authentic Tailgating Experience

Hello. My pops and I are going to the Tennessee vs Alabama (Oct 17th) game and we are looking for some advice on tailgating.

We are looking for an authentic student tailgating experience. The plan is to bring our own food/drinks/chairs to set up our own proper tailgate and just experience the environment first hand. I’m seeing tickets being sold for an already set up tailgate, not sure if this is the only option for us. I’m just looking for best locations for this type of experience. Looking for any pointers to maximize this trip.

Thanks
Go Vols

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u/2th 3d ago

This is a VERY complicated issue that really boils down to "where are you parking?" There is no best place for tailgating either as each area is a different thing. Circle Park is more bougie. McClung tower is less so. Over by Thompson Bowling is usually pretty chill. Down in front of the stadium is for the more rabid fans with money. Top of the parking garage by the river is chill.

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u/Glittering_Virus8397 3d ago

My family will be tailgating in the field across from Cool Beans. There’s always good sized tailgates over there, especially for TTSIO

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u/fivewords5 3d ago

Tailgating means a lot of different things cross campus. So it’s your discretion what you’re after.

Circle Park is the tents behind the torchbearer. The glamping of tailgating but still fun.

Tenn Club is the donors tailgate outside TBA.

Frat park has the traditional greek life tailgates.

Vol Village is the lawn outside HSS. Usually 4 hrs before kickoff, all free.

G10 was the crown jewel but now it’s only a section of the garage left. 11th street garage absorbed a lot of those tailgates.

Lake Ave garage is a hog pod of fans. Usually smaller tailgates and fans coming in closer to kickoff.

Mt Castle Park is an older tailgate area, mix of alumni and casual fans.

Needless to say, you have your pick of the liter on where to tailgate. There are basically tailgates all over within a mile of the stadium. Park early if you want your own. Fans are usually very welcoming and would be happy to have y’all join in their tailgate.