What is the capacity of University Stadium?

University Stadium has a seating capacity of 39,224.

Where is University Stadium located?

University Stadium is located in Albuquerque, NM.

What team plays at University Stadium?

University Stadium is the home stadium of New Mexico in the Mountain West.

When was University Stadium built?

University Stadium opened in 1960.

What type of surface does University Stadium have?

University Stadium has a fieldturf playing surface.

What stadiums are near University Stadium?

The closest stadiums to University Stadium are Aggie Memorial Stadium (193 mi), Sun Bowl Stadium (228 mi), Walkup Skydome (284 mi), Falcon Stadium (289 mi), Jones AT&T Stadium (290 mi), Frank Kush Field, Home of the ASU Sun Devils/Mountain America Stadium (323 mi).

Who are New Mexico's biggest rivals?

New Mexico's rivals include Arizona, New Mexico State (Rio Grande Rivalry).

University Stadium - home of New Mexico in Albuquerque, NM

NCAA FBS

University StadiumAlbuquerque, New Mexico

New Mexico

👥

Capacity

39,224

🏆

Conference

Mountain West

📅

Opened

1960

🌱

Surface

FieldTurf

Quick Actions

🏈Track All NCAA FBS 📍View on Map

📖About University Stadium

University Stadium, affectionately called "The Pit" for football (not to be confused with the basketball arena), seats 39,224 Lobo fans in Albuquerque at 5,280 feet elevation. Opened in 1960, it offers stunning Sandia Mountains views and mile-high altitude that challenges visiting teams.

🏛️History

Origins

Opened September 17, 1960 with an 18-8 loss to New Mexico State. Built into the Mesa east of campus. Originally 30,000 seats with natural grass.

Major Renovations

1976Capacity expanded to 37,000

2001Dreamstyle Remodeling video board added

2019FieldTurf installed; new luxury suites

Notable Moments

Sep 2, 2017Lobos opened with upset of Abilene Christian

1997-1999Rocky Long's teams won three straight bowl games

Sep 10, 2022First Boise State game in Albuquerque

🎟️Visitor Guide

Best Seats

West side offers afternoon shade and Sandia Mountain views. DreamStyle Stadium Club on west side has premium amenities. East side gets full sun.

Parking Tips

Parking lots surrounding stadium. Tailgating popular in south lots. Light rail from downtown stops near campus.

Game Day

Mile-high altitude affects conditioning. Beautiful sunset views over the Sandias. Lobo Louie mascot howls after scores. Green chile food options throughout stadium—try a Frito pie! Clear bag policy enforced.

🗺️Local Recommendations

🍺Bars & Drinks

O'Niell's Pub

Beloved Albuquerque institution in Nob Hill. The heart of the local sports scene with a massive patio and extensive tap list.

📍 2.2 miles4310 Central Ave SE

💡 The patio is the place to be on gameday. Arrive early to secure a table and try their famous Boxty or fish and chips.

Gecko's Bar & Tapas

High-energy spot in Nob Hill known for upscale bar food, excellent service, and numerous HD TVs for catching every angle of the game.

📍 1.6 miles3500 Central Ave SE

💡 Their green chile cheeseburger is widely considered one of the best in the city—perfect gameday fuel.

Nexus Brewery and Restaurant

Famous for "New Mexico Soul Food," combining traditional Southern comfort food with local flavors and award-winning craft beer.

📍 4.8 miles4730 Pan American Fwy NE

💡 Order the fried chicken and waffles with a side of green chile to experience their signature flavor profile.

🍽️Restaurants

Frontier Restaurant

Legendary UNM landmark since 1971. Famous for eclectic art, sweet rolls, and breakfast burritos. The quintessential Albuquerque dining experience.

📍 1.4 miles2400 Central Ave SE

💡 Don't be intimidated by the line; it moves fast. Grab a pack of Frontier Sweet Rolls to share with your group.

Monte Carlo Steakhouse

$$$

Hidden gem tucked behind a liquor store. Old-school steakhouse iconic for no-frills atmosphere and top-tier green chile cheeseburgers.

📍 4.5 miles3916 Central Ave SW

💡 The spot for a celebratory post-game dinner. The steaks are exceptional and the atmosphere is pure retro Albuquerque.

Saggio's

Funky student-favorite filled with Greek statues and movie memorabilia. Excellent pizza, pasta, and gelato.

📍 1.3 miles107 Cornell Dr SE

💡 Excellent for families and large groups. Their homemade gelato is the perfect treat after a warm afternoon game.

Golden Pride

Owned by the Frontier family. The go-to for quick, delicious breakfast burritos and some of the best fried chicken and ribs in the state.

📍 2.1 miles1830 Lomas Blvd NE

💡 Ultimate tailgating hack: pick up a bucket of chicken or a dozen #9 burritos to take straight to the stadium parking lots.

🏨Hotels

Home2 Suites by Hilton Albuquerque Airport

Located just south of the stadium. One of the most convenient hotels for fans who want to walk to the game and avoid traffic.

📍 0.6 miles1660 University Blvd SE

💡 Book early for gameday weekends. Proximity to both the stadium and The Pit makes it a top choice for visiting fans.

Hotel Parq Central

$$$

Stunningly restored historic building turned boutique hotel. Features a rooftop bar with some of the best views of the city and mountains.

📍 2.0 miles806 Central Ave SE

💡 Visit the Apothecary Lounge (rooftop) at sunset to see the Sandia Mountains turn their signature "watermelon" pink.

🎭Attractions

The Pit (Dreamstyle Arena)

Free

Located right next to the stadium. One of the most legendary basketball arenas in college sports, known for incredible atmosphere and subterranean design.

📍 0.1 milesAdjacent to University Stadium

💡 Walk by to see the "A Mile High and Louder Than..." signage and sense the history of one of the loudest venues in the country.

The Lobo Walk

Free

Team's traditional entrance where players and coaches walk through the fan zone (Louie Lane) into the stadium, accompanied by the spirit squad and band.

📍 0 milesSouth Lot at University Stadium

💡 The walk typically occurs about 2 hours and 15 minutes before kickoff. Head to the "Louie Lane" tailgating area to catch the action.