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NCAA FBS

Ryan FieldEvanston, Illinois

Northwestern

About Ryan Field

Ryan Field is the future home stadium of the Northwestern Wildcats football team at 1501 Central Street in Evanston, Illinois. Scheduled to open October 2, 2026, the $862 million venue replaces the prior stadium on the same site. It will seat 35,000 on FieldTurf — the smallest football stadium in the Big Ten Conference. A full canopy will cover all seating while the playing field remains open-air. Design was led by HNTB, Perkins&Will, and Rockwell Group.

Ryan Field History

Origins

Built to replace the aging Ryan Field with a modern facility that enhances the fan experience, provides better accessibility, and serves as a premier venue for Northwestern and the Evanston community.

Major Renovations

2024Demolition of the original Ryan Field and commencement of construction on the new stadium.

Notable Moments

Oct 2, 2026Scheduled opening for Northwestern’s game against Penn State.

Visiting Ryan Field

Best Seats

The stadium is designed with a "vertical" bowl to bring every fan closer to the field than in any other Big Ten stadium. Premium clubs and terraces are planned for the east and west sides.

Parking Tips

The new design emphasizes public transit and sustainable travel. Dedicated shuttles and enhanced bike facilities will be integrated into the new gameday experience.

Game Day

Ryan Field is scheduled to open October 2, 2026, for Northwestern’s game against Penn State. Northwestern’s September 5 and September 19 home games are at Northwestern Medicine Field at Martin Stadium on the lakefront.

Local Recommendations

Bars & Drinks

Bat 17

$$

The quintessential Northwestern sports bar known for its 'big-hitting' sandwiches and lively gameday energy.

0.8 miles1735 Benson Ave, Evanston, IL 60201

A must-visit for every NU fan. It gets extremely crowded on Saturdays, so arrive early for a table.

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Ten Mile House

$$

Upscale comfort food and craft beer spot located right on the edge of the university campus.

1.2 miles1700 Central St, Evanston, IL 60201

Great for a post-game meal. The wood-fired pizzas and craft cocktails are local favorites.

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Smylie Brothers Brewing Co.

$$

Local brewery and BBQ joint situated in a converted warehouse with a massive taproom.

0.7 miles1615 Oak Ave, Evanston, IL 60201

Excellent selection of house-made beers. Perfect for large groups and soaking in the Evanston vibe.

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Restaurants

Tomate Fresh Kitchen

$

Local favorite serving legendary burritos and tacos with fresh, high-quality ingredients.

0.3 miles914 1/2 Noyes St, Evanston, IL 60201

Known for having some of the best burritos in the Chicago area. Cash-only or small-venue feel; great for grabbing a quick bite.

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Prairie Moon

$$

Long-standing Evanston institution known for American regional fare and a great bar scene.

0.6 miles1635 Chicago Ave, Evanston, IL 60201

Famous for their massive bar made from old bowling lanes and their regional specialties like blue crab cakes.

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Lou Malnati's Pizzeria

$$

The world-famous spot for authentic Chicago-style deep dish pizza.

0.7 miles1850 Sherman Ave, Evanston, IL 60201

You can't visit the Chicago area without having deep dish. Expect a wait, but it's worth it.

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Hotels

Hilton Orrington/Evanston

$$$

Historic grand hotel located in the heart of downtown Evanston overlooking Lake Michigan.

0.7 miles1710 Orrington Ave, Evanston, IL 60201

The premier hotel for visiting teams and parents. Within walking distance of the temporary stadium site.

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Graduate by Hilton Evanston

$$$

Character-filled hotel with a vintage collegiate feel, located just blocks from campus.

0.6 miles1625 Hinman Ave, Evanston, IL 60201

Incredible 'Wildcats' themed decor throughout. A very unique stay for any college football fan.

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Attractions

Lake Michigan Shoreline

Free

The stunning lakefront path and beaches adjacent to the university campus.

0.1 milesCampus Dr, Evanston, IL 60208

Take a walk along the water for incredible views of the Chicago skyline. Perfect on a crisp Saturday morning.

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Grosse Point Lighthouse

Free

Historic 19th-century lighthouse situated on the shores of Lake Michigan.

1.2 miles2601 Sheridan Rd, Evanston, IL 60201

A beautiful architectural landmark that offers great photo opportunities near the campus.

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Parking Options

Henry Crown Sports Pavilion Garage

Free-$25
Garage0.1 miles

The most convenient parking for games at Lanny and Sharon Martin Stadium. Free on weekends but may require a gameday pass for football.

North Campus Parking Garage

$20
Garage0.3 miles

A reliable secondary option located slightly south of the stadium complex.

Suggest a Tip

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

Discover More Stadiums

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Northwestern Rivals

Gies Memorial StadiumIllinois · Champaign, ILBattle for the Land of LincolnMichigan StadiumMichigan · Ann Arbor, MINotre Dame StadiumNotre Dame · Notre Dame, INBattle for the Shillelagh

Closest Stadiums to Ryan Field

Wrigley FieldChicago Cubs · Chicago, IL8 miSoldier FieldChicago Bears · Chicago, IL14 miRate FieldChicago White Sox · Chicago, IL16 miSeatGeek StadiumChicago State Cougars · Bridgeview, Illinois23 miBrown FieldValparaiso Beacons · Valparaiso, Indiana53 miBrigham Field at Huskie StadiumNIU · DeKalb, IL57 mi

Frequently Asked Questions About Ryan Field

What is the capacity of Ryan Field?
Ryan Field has a seating capacity of 35,000.
Where is Ryan Field located?
Ryan Field is located in Evanston, IL.
What team plays at Ryan Field?
Ryan Field is planned as a future venue for Northwestern in the Big Ten.
When does Ryan Field open?
Ryan Field is scheduled to open on October 2, 2026.
Where are the best seats at Ryan Field?
The stadium is designed with a "vertical" bowl to bring every fan closer to the field than in any other Big Ten stadium. Premium clubs and terraces are planned for the east and west sides.
What are the best parking tips for Ryan Field?
The new design emphasizes public transit and sustainable travel. Dedicated shuttles and enhanced bike facilities will be integrated into the new gameday experience.
What type of surface does Ryan Field have?
Ryan Field has a fieldturf playing surface.
What stadiums are near Ryan Field?
The closest stadiums to Ryan Field are Wrigley Field (8 mi), Soldier Field (14 mi), Rate Field (16 mi), SeatGeek Stadium (23 mi), Brown Field (53 mi), Brigham Field at Huskie Stadium (57 mi).
Who are Northwestern's biggest rivals?
Northwestern's rivals include Illinois (Battle for the Land of Lincoln), Michigan, Notre Dame (Battle for the Shillelagh).

References

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