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Rynearson Stadium - home of Eastern Michigan in Ypsilanti, MI
Photo: Eastern sid · CC BY-SA 4.0
NCAA FBS

Rynearson StadiumYpsilanti, Michigan

Eastern Michigan

About Rynearson Stadium

Rynearson Stadium has been home to Eastern Michigan Eagles football in Ypsilanti, Michigan since opening on September 27, 1969. Named after longtime head coach Elton J. Rynearson Sr., who compiled a 114–58–15 record over 26 seasons, the stadium holds 26,188. The playing surface is FieldTurf. In 2024, the field was renamed Crosby Field following a $1 million donation from former EMU player Maxx Crosby and his wife.

Rynearson Stadium 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

Visiting Rynearson Stadium

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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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Parking Options

Stadium North Lot (GA)

$10
Lot0.2 miles

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

St. John's Lot

Free
Lot0.6 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.

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Learn more on Wikipedia

Eastern Michigan Rivals

Kramer/Deromedi Field at Kelly/Shorts StadiumCentral Michigan · Mount Pleasant, MIBattle for the Michigan MACWaldo StadiumWestern Michigan · Kalamazoo, MIBattle for the Michigan MAC

Closest Stadiums to Rynearson Stadium

Michigan StadiumMichigan · Ann Arbor, MI5 miComerica ParkDetroit Tigers · Detroit, MI31 miFord FieldDetroit Lions · Detroit, MI31 miGlass BowlToledo · Toledo, OH41 miSpartan StadiumMichigan State · East Lansing, MI54 miDoyt L. Perry StadiumBowling Green · Bowling Green, OH61 mi

Frequently Asked Questions About Rynearson Stadium

What is the capacity of Rynearson Stadium?
Rynearson Stadium has a seating capacity of 26,188.
Where is Rynearson Stadium located?
Rynearson Stadium is located in Ypsilanti, MI.
What team plays at Rynearson Stadium?
Rynearson Stadium is the home stadium of Eastern Michigan in the MAC.
When was Rynearson Stadium built?
Rynearson Stadium opened in 1969.
Where are the best seats at Rynearson Stadium?
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!
What are the best parking tips for Rynearson Stadium?
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.
What type of surface does Rynearson Stadium have?
Rynearson Stadium has a fieldturf playing surface.
What stadiums are near Rynearson Stadium?
The closest stadiums to Rynearson Stadium are Michigan Stadium (5 mi), Comerica Park (31 mi), Ford Field (31 mi), Glass Bowl (41 mi), Spartan Stadium (54 mi), Doyt L. Perry Stadium (61 mi).
Who are Eastern Michigan's biggest rivals?
Eastern Michigan's rivals include Central Michigan (Battle for the Michigan MAC), Western Michigan (Battle for the Michigan MAC).

References

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