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NCAA FBS

Dix StadiumKent, Ohio

Kent State

👥
Capacity
25,319
🏆
Conference
MAC
📅
Opened
1969
🌱
Surface
FieldTurf

📖About Dix Stadium

Dix Stadium, located in Kent, Ohio, has been the home of the Golden Flashes since 1969. The 25,319-seat venue is named for Robert C. Dix, a former member of the university's Board of Trustees and publisher of the Record-Courier.

🏛️History

Origins

Built for $3.5M in 1969 to replace Memorial Stadium. Originally named Memorial Stadium, it was renamed Dix Stadium in 1973.

Major Renovations

1992Natural grass replaced with artificial turf
2008South end zone stands removed; new concessions and entry plaza added
2023New state-of-the-art FieldTurf CORE surface installed

Notable Moments

Sep 13, 1969First game: Kent State beat Dayton 24-14
Nov 1, 1973First televised game at the stadium vs Marshall
Nov 17, 2012Golden Flashes beat Ohio to clinch first-ever MAC East title

🎟️Visitor Guide

Best Seats

The West stands (Home side) provide the best views and afternoon shade. For a more casual experience, the grass hills near the ends of the stadium are popular.

Parking Tips

Stadium lots are $10 cash (East/West). Free parking is available along Summit Street with a free shuttle service to the gates. Lots open 3 hours before kickoff.

Game Day

The "Flash Walk" occurs two hours before kickoff. The proximity of the field to the stands creates an intimate and loud atmosphere. Make sure to visit the "Flash Fan Zone" for pre-game festivities.

🗺️Local Recommendations

🍺Bars & Drinks

Ray's Place

$$

Legendary downtown Kent institution since 1937, famous for its massive beer list (64+ taps) and family-friendly atmosphere.

📍 1.3 miles135 Franklin Ave, Kent, OH 44240

💡 The place to be on gameday. Their burgers are iconic, and the historic atmosphere is unbeatable.

Water Street Tavern

$$

The official post-game headquarters for Kent State Athletics, featuring a rooftop patio and live music.

📍 1.2 miles132 S Water St, Kent, OH 44240

💡 A high-energy spot with plenty of TVs. Perfect for catching other games before or after the Flashes play.

🍽️Restaurants

Mike's Place

$$

Quirky, independent local staple known for its massive menu and eclectic decor (including a spaceship and boat outside).

📍 1.0 miles1700 S Water St, Kent, OH 44240

💡 A great breakfast or lunch spot with huge portions. The menu is a fun read in itself!

The River Merchant

$$$

Upscale riverfront dining with inventive American fare and a great craft cocktail bar.

📍 2.1 miles911 N Mantua St, Kent, OH 44240

💡 Excellent for a more refined post-game dinner. The patio views of the Cuyahoga River are fantastic.

🏨Hotels

Kent State University Hotel & Conference Center

$$$

Boutique hotel located in the heart of downtown Kent, just steps from campus and dining.

📍 1.4 miles215 S Depeyster St, Kent, OH 44240

💡 The premier lodging option. Very convenient walk to downtown bars and a short drive to the stadium.

🎭Attractions

Kent State University Museum

$

World-class museum focusing on fashion and decorative arts, located on the main campus.

📍 1.1 miles515 Hilltop Dr, Kent, OH 44242

💡 A unique and high-quality attraction. Great for a quick cultural visit before heading to the game.

🅿️Parking Options

🅿️

Stadium East/West Lots

$10
Lot📍 0.1 miles

💡 Paid gameday parking (cash only). Lots open 3 hours before kickoff. Arrive early as they fill up fast.

🅿️

Summit Street General Lots

Free
Lot📍 0.8 miles

💡 Free parking with free shuttle service to Dix Stadium. Recommended to avoid traffic congestion.

Suggest a Tip

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

🔥Rivals

Stadiums Near Dix Stadium

References

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