Skip to main content
NCAA FBS

Rynearson StadiumYpsilanti, Michigan

Eastern Michigan

👥
Capacity
26,188
🏆
Conference
MAC
📅
Opened
1969
🌱
Surface
FieldTurf

📖About Rynearson Stadium

Rynearson Stadium seats 26,188 Eagles fans in Ypsilanti, Michigan. Named for legendary coach Elton Rynearson (1925-1948), it opened in 1969 and features the unique gray FieldTurf surface that matches EMU's school colors.

🏛️History

Origins

Opened September 20, 1969 with 10-0 loss to Akron. Built as a 22,227-seat venue on the western edge of campus. Named for coach Elton Rynearson who won 114 games.

Major Renovations

1992Permanent lights installed for night games
2010Gray FieldTurf installed—matching school colors
2024New video board and facility upgrades

Notable Moments

Nov 18, 2016EMU beat Western 29-26 to qualify for first bowl since 1987
Sep 2, 2023Eagles hosted Minnesota for major Power 5 payday

🎟️Visitor Guide

Best Seats

West side pressbox stands offer the best elevated views. The gray turf is a major talking point—get close to the field to see it!

Parking Tips

Parking is available in the North and West stadium lots. It's typically around $10 for GA cars. Ypsilanti is right next to Ann Arbor, so plan for traffic on game weekends.

Game Day

The gray "Factory" turf is one of the most unique sights in college football. The Eagles have seen a resurgence under Chris Creighton, making gamedays much more competitive and fun.

🗺️Local Recommendations

🍺Bars & Drinks

Sidetrack Bar & Grill

$$

Legendary Ypsilanti institution in Depot Town known for its huge burgers and draft list.

📍 2.1 miles56 E Cross St, Ypsilanti, MI 48198

💡 A must-visit. Their burger was once named one of the best in America. Expect a wait on weekends.

734 Brewing Company

$$

Community-focused brewery with unique, locally-named beers and a great outdoor patio.

📍 2.1 miles15 E Cross St, Ypsilanti, MI 48198

💡 A great spot to try some truly local EMU-inspired brews before heading to the game.

🍽️Restaurants

Bill's Hot Dog Stand

$

Classic seasonal drive-in serving Coney-style dogs and incredible house-made root beer.

📍 1.4 miles1292 Michigan Ave, Ypsilanti, MI 48197

💡 A beloved local tradition. The chili dogs and root beer in a frosted mug are quintessential Ypsi.

Aubree's Pizzeria & Grill

$$

Depot Town favorite known for its creative pizzas and high-quality burgers in a historic setting.

📍 2.1 miles39 E Cross St, Ypsilanti, MI 48198

💡 Excellent for a sit-down meal with the family. Their feta bread is a fan-favorite starter.

The Bomber Restaurant

$

Famous breakfast spot known for its WWII-themed decor and massive 'Bomber Breakfast'.

📍 2.4 miles306 E Michigan Ave, Ypsilanti, MI 48198

💡 As seen on Food Network. Great for a huge gameday morning meal, but arrive early as it's very popular.

🏨Hotels

Ann Arbor Marriott Ypsilanti at Eagle Crest

$$$

Upscale resort-style hotel overlooking Ford Lake with an on-site golf course.

📍 3.2 miles1275 S Huron St, Ypsilanti, MI 48197

💡 The premier lodging choice in the area. Offers high-end amenities and is a short drive to the stadium.

Hampton Inn & Suites Ypsilanti

$$$

Reliable and modern hotel located near the I-94 interchange, providing easy campus access.

📍 4.5 miles2400 Green Rd, Ann Arbor, MI 48105

💡 Offers a free hot breakfast and is consistently well-maintained for visiting fans.

🎭Attractions

Ypsilanti Automotive Heritage Museum

$

Located in Depot Town, this museum features rare Hudson, Tucker, and Corvair automobiles.

📍 2.1 miles100 E Cross St, Ypsilanti, MI 48198

💡 A quick and fascinating visit for any car enthusiast, highlighting Ypsi's industrial roots.

Ford Lake Park

Free

Scenic 110-acre park with water views, fishing spots, and expansive walking trails.

📍 3.8 miles9075 Huron River Dr, Ypsilanti, MI 48197

💡 A great place for a morning run or to enjoy the lake views if you have some downtime.

🅿️Parking Options

🅿️

Stadium North Lot (GA)

$10
Lot📍 0.2 miles

💡 The primary general admission lot. It's close, affordable, and has a good pre-game tailgating scene.

🅿️

St. John's Lot

Free
Lot📍 0.6 miles

💡 Often has free or very cheap street/overflow parking on gamedays if you don't mind a 10-minute walk.

Suggest a Tip

Know a great bar, restaurant, hotel, attraction, or parking spot near Rynearson Stadium? Share it with us.

🔥Rivals

Stadiums Near Rynearson Stadium

References

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