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NCAA FCS

Saxon StadiumErie, Pennsylvania

Mercyhurst Lakers

About Saxon Stadium

Saxon Stadium is a 2,300-seat multi-purpose stadium on the Mercyhurst University campus in Erie, Pennsylvania. Originally built in 1996 as the Lakers' first on-campus football facility, the stadium replaced Erie Veterans Memorial Stadium where Mercyhurst had played since the program's 1981 inception. Named after donors John and Patty Saxon, the stadium also hosts field hockey, lacrosse, and marching band events.

Saxon Stadium History

Origins

When Erie Veterans Memorial Stadium became unavailable for the 1996 season, Mercyhurst officials seized the opportunity to fulfill their long-term vision of an on-campus football stadium. Saxon Stadium gave the Lakers a dedicated home for the first time in program history.

Major Renovations

2019New LED lighting and synthetic turf field installed

Notable Moments

1996Stadium opened as Mercyhurst's first on-campus football venue
2024Mercyhurst joined NEC as full Division I FCS member

Visiting Saxon Stadium

Best Seats

The 2,300-seat bleachers provide intimate views of the action. The rolling hills south of the field offer a casual alternative for fans who prefer to spread out on the grass.

Parking Tips

Campus parking lots are available near the stadium. Arrive 1-2 hours early on gamedays. Erie is a mid-sized city with ample street parking in surrounding neighborhoods.

Game Day

Mercyhurst is a newer Division I program with a growing football tradition. The intimate Saxon Stadium atmosphere creates a close connection between fans and the action. Explore Erie's waterfront and Presque Isle before or after the game.

Local Recommendations

Bars & Drinks

Plymouth Tavern

$

Warm, friendly neighborhood bar known for free popcorn, good beer selection, and occasional pizza-and-pitcher specials.

2 miles

One of Erie's most popular bars. Great atmosphere for pre-game drinks.

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Calamari's Squid Row

$$

Lively bar with a large beer selection, pub food, and regular live music and DJ nights.

2 miles

Good bar food with homemade specials each day. Fun postgame spot.

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The Roost

$

Casual neighborhood tavern popular with locals and college crowds alike.

1.5 miles
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Restaurants

1201 Kitchen

$$$

Upscale dining with seasonal menus featuring locally sourced ingredients and creative cocktails.

2 miles

Reservations recommended for game weekends. One of Erie's top dining destinations.

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Connie's Homemade Ice Cream

$

Local ice cream institution with homemade flavors and a loyal following.

1.7 miles

Perfect post-game treat. Cash only.

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Alkeme

$$$

Contemporary restaurant with inventive cocktails and globally inspired small plates.

2.5 miles

Great for a special postgame dinner.

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Hotels

Courtyard by Marriott Erie Bayfront

$$

Modern hotel on Erie's Bayfront with views of Presque Isle Bay and close to waterfront attractions.

4 miles

Best location for combining a football trip with Erie waterfront activities.

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Hampton Inn & Suites Erie Bayfront

$$

Comfortable bayfront hotel with complimentary breakfast and convenient access to downtown Erie.

4 miles

Book early for fall football weekends.

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Attractions

Presque Isle State Park

Free

Sandy peninsula with 11 miles of beaches, hiking trails, and stunning Lake Erie views. One of Pennsylvania's most visited state parks.

8 miles

Perfect Saturday morning activity before an afternoon kickoff. Sunset Beach is spectacular.

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Erie Maritime Museum

$

Museum featuring the US Brig Niagara, a reconstructed warship from the War of 1812 Battle of Lake Erie.

4 miles

Great for history buffs. The Niagara is Pennsylvania's official flagship.

View on map →

Parking Options

Campus Parking Lots

Free
Lot0.1-0.3 miles

Free parking on gamedays in campus lots near Saxon Stadium.

Suggest a Tip

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

Discover More Stadiums

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Closest Stadiums to Saxon Stadium

Stambaugh StadiumYoungstown State Penguins · Youngstown, Ohio75 miNew Highmark StadiumBuffalo Bills · Orchard Park, NY79 miBroadview StadiumBuffalo · Amherst, NY90 miDix StadiumKent State · Kent, OH93 miProgressive FieldCleveland Guardians · Cleveland, OH94 miHuntington Bank FieldCleveland Browns · Cleveland, OH94 mi

Frequently Asked Questions About Saxon Stadium

What is the capacity of Saxon Stadium?
Saxon Stadium has a seating capacity of 2,300.
Where is Saxon Stadium located?
Saxon Stadium is located in Erie, Pennsylvania.
What team plays at Saxon Stadium?
Saxon Stadium is the home stadium of Mercyhurst Lakers in the NEC.
When was Saxon Stadium built?
Saxon Stadium opened in 1996.
Where are the best seats at Saxon Stadium?
The 2,300-seat bleachers provide intimate views of the action. The rolling hills south of the field offer a casual alternative for fans who prefer to spread out on the grass.
What are the best parking tips for Saxon Stadium?
Campus parking lots are available near the stadium. Arrive 1-2 hours early on gamedays. Erie is a mid-sized city with ample street parking in surrounding neighborhoods.
What type of surface does Saxon Stadium have?
Saxon Stadium has a fieldturf playing surface.
What stadiums are near Saxon Stadium?
The closest stadiums to Saxon Stadium are Stambaugh Stadium (75 mi), New Highmark Stadium (79 mi), Broadview Stadium (90 mi), Dix Stadium (93 mi), Progressive Field (94 mi), Huntington Bank Field (94 mi).

References

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