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McColl–Richardson Field at Jerry Richardson Stadium - home of Charlotte in Charlotte, NC
NCAA FBS

McColl–Richardson Field at Jerry Richardson StadiumCharlotte, North Carolina

Charlotte

👥
Capacity
15,314
🏆
Conference
American
📅
Opened
2013
🌱
Surface
Matrix Artificial Turf

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📖About McColl–Richardson Field at Jerry Richardson Stadium

Jerry Richardson Stadium is a 15,314-seat venue on the UNC Charlotte campus, home to the Charlotte 49ers. The horseshoe-shaped stadium was purpose-built to support the university's inaugural FBS football program and is designed for future expansion up to 40,000 seats.

🏛️McColl–Richardson Field at Jerry Richardson Stadium History

Origins

Construction began in April 2011 and was completed in October 2012. Built to support Charlotte's new FBS football program, it was named after Jerry Richardson, founder and former owner of the NFL's Carolina Panthers, following a $10 million donation announced in June 2013.

Major Renovations

2025Groundbreaking for 3,000-seat expansion project, increasing capacity to 18,100 by 2027 season

Notable Moments

Aug 31, 2013First game: Charlotte defeated Campbell 52-7

🎟️Visiting McColl–Richardson Field at Jerry Richardson Stadium

Best Seats

With only 15,314 seats in a horseshoe layout, every seat feels close to the action. Sideline sections between the 30-yard lines on the west (press box) side offer the best sightlines and afternoon shade. The open south end zone gives the stadium an airy feel but means sun exposure — sit on the west side for relief during early-season day games.

Parking Tips

The CRI Deck is the closest garage at $20 but can gridlock after the final whistle. Tailgate lots open 8 hours before kickoff (no earlier than 8 AM on weekends) with a laid-back, welcoming scene heavy on cornhole and cookouts. The JW Clay Blvd light rail station offers free parking and is one stop from campus — a stress-free alternative.

Game Day

Catch the Niner Walk starting at the Marriott Hotel, proceeding down Robert Snyder Road and entering the stadium via Gate 3 about two hours before kickoff. The intimate 15K-seat bowl creates a surprisingly loud atmosphere for a smaller program. The University area around campus has plenty of affordable food and drink options within walking distance.

🗺️Local Recommendations

🍺Bars & Drinks

Boardwalk Billy's

$$

Lively lakeside bar and grill near campus, popular for its raw bar and gameday specials.

📍 0.8 miles9005 JM Keynes Dr

💡 The lakeside patio is the best spot to hang out before or after a 49ers home game.

Flying Saucer Draught Emporium

$$

Vast selection of over 200 beers and numerous TVs in a spacious, social setting.

📍 1.2 miles9605 N Tryon St

💡 Great for groups who want a huge variety of beers and plenty of screens to catch other games.

Vaulted Oak Brewing

$$

Alumni-owned craft brewery in an old bank building with a strong connection to UNC Charlotte.

📍 8.5 miles3726 Monroe Rd

💡 A bit of a drive, but it's a hub for Niner fans and alumni—check for the Niner-themed brews.

Picasso's Sports Cafe

$

Classic sports cafe with a focus on wings, burgers, and a lively athletic atmosphere.

📍 1.4 miles230 E W.T. Harris Blvd

💡 The wings are some of the best in the University area; perfect for a quick pregame bite.

🍽️Restaurants

Banh Mi Brothers

$

Modern Vietnamese spot serving authentic banh mi sandwiches and bubble tea.

📍 1.3 miles230 E W.T. Harris Blvd

💡 Located near the light rail station; perfect for a quick, flavorful lunch on gameday.

Le Kebab Grill

$$

Popular local favorite for fresh Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine near campus.

📍 0.9 miles350 Pascale Ct

💡 The lamb shank and hummus are highly recommended by UNCC faculty and students alike.

Famous Toastery

$$

Go-to brunch and lunch spot with a welcoming atmosphere and varied menu.

📍 0.8 miles8933 JM Keynes Dr

💡 Ideal for a pre-noon kickoff—expect a wait but the service is quick on game weekends.

Thai House - University

$$

Known for consistent, high-quality Thai dishes and a peaceful atmosphere.

📍 1.1 miles9539 Pinnacle Dr

💡 The Pad Thai is a solid choice if you're looking for something other than traditional gameday pub food.

🏨Hotels

UNC Charlotte Marriott Hotel

$$$

On-campus hotel and conference center, offering ultimate convenience for fans.

📍 0.2 miles9041 Robert D. Snyder Rd

💡 You are literally steps from the stadium; book early as this is the first to sell out.

Hilton Charlotte University Place

$$$

Lakeside hotel in the heart of University Place, close to many dining options.

📍 0.9 miles8629 JM Keynes Dr

💡 Walkable to several bars and restaurants, making for a great car-free weekend.

🎭Attractions

Niner Walk

Free

Tradition where fans cheer on the 49ers as they make their way to the stadium.

📍 0.1 milesMain Campus Entrance

💡 Catch the team walk roughly 2 hours before kickoff near the Marriott.

UNC Charlotte Botanical Gardens

Free

Beautiful campus oasis featuring a greenhouse and diverse outdoor gardens.

📍 0.6 miles9090 Mary Alexander Rd

💡 A peaceful escape if you arrive early and want a quiet stroll before the crowds arrive.

🅿️Parking Options

🏢

CRI Deck

$20
Garage📍 0.2 miles

💡 The main gameday garage; easy walk but can take time to exit after the game.

🏢

Union Deck

$15
Garage📍 0.4 miles

💡 Good alternative if CRI Deck fills up; slightly longer walk.

🅿️

JW Clay Blvd Station Parking

Free-Varies
Lot📍 1.0 miles

💡 Park at the light rail station and walk or take the train for one stop to campus.

Suggest a Tip

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References

Content sourced from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA) and official team sites. Additional information verified against public sources.