What is the capacity of Kinnick Stadium?

Kinnick Stadium holds 69,250 fans and is the only college football stadium named after a Heisman Trophy winner—Nile Kinnick, who won in 1939 and died serving in WWII. It's famous for "The Wave," where fans turn to wave at children in the adjacent hospital after the first quarter.

🏛️History

Origins

Built in just seven months in 1929, using horses, mules, and round-the-clock crews. Originally Iowa Stadium, it was renamed in 1972 after sportswriter Gus Schrader successfully lobbied to honor Heisman winner Nile Kinnick.

Major Renovations

1956First major expansion to 53,000 capacity

2006$86.8M renovation: new press box, scoreboard, permanent south end zone seating

2019$89.9M north end zone upgrade with box seating and new scoreboard (69,250 capacity)

Notable Moments

Sep 2, 2017"The Wave" tradition begins—fans wave to Children's Hospital patients after 1st quarter

Oct 15, 2023Crossover at Kinnick: Iowa vs DePaul drew 55,646—women's basketball world record

Nov 23, 2024Iowa beats Nebraska 13-10 to extend home winning streak

🎟️Visitor Guide

Best Seats

Ted Pacha Family Club and Kinnick Edge offer premium midfield views. Chairback rentals available ($15 game day). The Mediacom Outdoor Club and McCord Club Lounge provide climate-controlled hospitality. Student section is in the north end zone.

Parking Tips

Free lots 55, 71, 85 open 6 hrs before kickoff with shuttle service. Paid lots ($30 cars, $100 RVs) include Finkbine Golf Course and Newton Ramp. Melrose Ave closes 1 hr before kickoff. RV overnight parking available in Lots 52, 73, 75S (7:30-10pm Friday).

Game Day

Hawk Walk at Krause Family Plaza starts 2 hrs before kickoff—players touch Kinnick's statue. Marching band performs free at Rec Building 75 min early. Stadium is cashless. Don't miss The Wave after Q1—the most heartwarming tradition in college football. Pink visitor locker rooms still honor Coach Hayden Fry's mind games.