What is the capacity of Spartan Stadium?

Spartan Stadium, nicknamed "The Woodshed," holds 74,866 and has been home to Michigan State football since 1923. Originally called Macklin Field when MSU was Michigan Agricultural College, it received its current name in 1957. The stadium has sold out 172 games since 1957.

🏛️History

Origins

Built in 1923 for $160,000 from a state legislature grant with 13,064 seats. First game was a 21-6 win over Lake Forest on October 6, 1923. Dedicated October 11, 1924 vs Michigan before 20,500 fans.

Major Renovations

1935WPA project lowered field 6 feet, doubled capacity to 27,000

1957East and west sides double-decked (76,000 capacity); renamed Spartan Stadium

200524 suites, 193-seat press box, "The Spartan" statue relocated to atrium

2025$28M renovation: new video boards, West Tower suite upgrades

Notable Moments

Sep 22, 1990Record crowd of 80,401 for MSU vs #1 Notre Dame (19-20 loss)

2007"300" clips added—crowd chants "Ha-Ooh!" on opponent's 3rd down

2017Permanent stadium lights installed

🎟️Visitor Guide

Best Seats

Sections 1-8 (west side) and 101-108 (east side) offer midfield views. Sideline club has chairback seating. Upper deck provides full-field views. Student section is in sections 8-14 on the south end.

Parking Tips

Popular tailgate spots: tennis courts, "the rock," and MSU library area on north campus. Open alcohol permitted except on Munn Field. Arrive early—parking fills fast. IM Sports West lots are closest to stadium.

Game Day

Spartan Walk starts at Kellogg Center, crosses Red Cedar River, passes Spartan Statue. Join the "Go Green, Go White!" chant—opposite sides of stadium point and respond. Watch for Zeke the Wonder Dog (frisbee-catching tradition since 1977). PA announcer declares "It's a beautiful day for football!" even in bad weather!