What is the capacity of Steve Spurrier-Florida Field at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium?

Steve Spurrier-Florida Field at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium, known as "The Swamp," is the largest stadium in Florida with a capacity of 88,548. Spurrier coined the nickname in 1992: "A swamp is where Gators live. We feel comfortable there, but we hope our opponents feel tentative."

🏛️History

Origins

Opened in 1930 as Florida Field with 22,000 seats. Named for Ben Hill Griffin Jr., a Florida citrus magnate and UF benefactor, in 1989. The playing surface was renamed for Steve Spurrier in 2016, honoring the Heisman winner and two-time national championship coach.

Major Renovations

1950Second tier added to west stands; first night game played

1982Double-deck south end zone construction

1991"Sunshine Seats" upper deck added to north end zone (80,000+ capacity)

2011West concourse renovation; Heisman Trophy winner statues installed

Notable Moments

Sep 15, 1990First game officially called "The Swamp"—Florida beat Alabama 17-13

Oct 11, 1997#1 Florida beat #2 FSU 32-29 in front of 85,461

Sep 3, 2011"I Won't Back Down" tradition began, honoring Tom Petty (UF alum)

🎟️Visitor Guide

Best Seats

Sections 36 and 38 offer the best midfield views close to the action. Section 2 is a budget-friendly alternative. All seats are bleacher-style without backs—bring a stadium-approved cushion. Field-level temps can exceed 100°F in early-season games.

Parking Tips

North End Zone lot is cheapest ($10). Flavet Lot offers short walks. Park near J.J. Finley Elementary for free and walk 5 blocks. ADA shuttles run from Garage IX starting 4 hours before kickoff. Use the Gators' custom Waze map to avoid road closures.

Game Day

Gates open 90 min before kickoff. The Gator Walk starts 2 hours early on the stadium's north side. Join the "I Won't Back Down" singalong honoring Tom Petty. Skip stadium hot dogs for Everglades BBQ or University Ave food trucks. Only Orange and Cool Blue Gatorade sold (it was invented at UF!).