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Raymond James Stadium - home of South Florida in Tampa, FL
NCAA FBS

Raymond James StadiumTampa, Florida

South Florida

👥
Capacity
65,857
🏆
Conference
American
📅
Opened
1998
🌱
Surface
Grass

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📖About Raymond James Stadium

Raymond James Stadium, known as the "Ray Jay," is a cornerstone of Tampa sports, serving as the home for both the Buccaneers and the USF Bulls. It is world-famous for its 103-foot pirate ship in the north end zone and has hosted three Super Bowls and the 2017 CFP National Championship.

🏛️Raymond James Stadium History

Origins

Built to replace the aging Tampa Stadium and provide a world-class venue for the Buccaneers and USF football. The stadium opened in 1998 and has since been hailed as a "crown jewel" of the NFL and college football.

Major Renovations

2016Added massive HD video boards (over 31,000 sq ft) and a state-of-the-art sound system.
2018Expanded the East and West clubs and renovated all luxury suites with retractable windows.

Notable Moments

Jan 9, 2017Hosted the College Football Playoff National Championship (Clemson vs. Alabama).
Feb 7, 2021Super Bowl LV: Buccaneers became the first team to win a Super Bowl in their home stadium.

🎟️Visiting Raymond James Stadium

Best Seats

Lower-bowl sections near midfield provide excellent sightlines for USF games. For the best shade, look for seats on the west side (home sideline).

Parking Tips

Parking is plentiful in the surrounding grass lots. Arrive early for USF games to enjoy the campus-like tailgating atmosphere in the surrounding areas.

Game Day

The pirate ship fires its cannons whenever the Bulls or Bucs score, a tradition that adds a unique atmosphere to all events. Look for the "Bulls Bay" student section for the high-energy college vibe.

🗺️Local Recommendations

🍺Bars & Drinks

Cigar City Brewing

$$

Tampa's most famous craft brewery, known for Jai Alai IPA and its Spruce St taproom.

📍 0.8 miles3924 W Spruce St, Tampa, FL 33607

💡 A must-visit for craft beer lovers. It's extremely close to the stadium and gets very lively on gamedays.

Lee's Grocery

$

Hidden gem dive bar and pizza joint with a massive craft beer selection.

📍 2.5 miles2210 N Central Ave, Tampa, FL 33602

💡 Great for fans looking for a more low-key, local atmosphere and incredible wings.

🍽️Restaurants

Al's Finger Licking Good Soul Food

$

Local favorite serving authentic Southern soul food and BBQ.

📍 3.5 miles1609 Angel Oliva Sr St, Tampa, FL 33605

💡 Located in Ybor City; the 'honey gold' wings are legendary. High value and high flavor.

Columbia Restaurant

$$$

Florida's oldest restaurant, located in historic Ybor City, serving world-class Spanish-Cuban cuisine.

📍 4.2 miles2117 E 7th Ave, Tampa, FL 33605

💡 A true Tampa institution. Reservations are essential. Try the 1905 Salad and the Cuban sandwich.

Bern's Steak House

$$$$

One of the most famous steak houses in the world, known for its massive wine cellar and dessert room.

📍 3.2 miles1208 S Howard Ave, Tampa, FL 33606

💡 Book months in advance. A true 'bucket list' dining experience for any visitor to Tampa.

🏨Hotels

Hilton Tampa Airport Westshore

$$$

Solid, reliable hotel located very close to the stadium and the Westshore business district.

📍 0.9 miles2225 N Lois Ave, Tampa, FL 33607

💡 Very convenient for out-of-town fans; many visiting teams stay in this area.

Epicurean Hotel, Autograph Collection

$$$$

Foodie-focused boutique hotel across from Bern's Steak House in South Tampa.

📍 3.2 miles1207 S Howard Ave, Tampa, FL 33606

💡 A more unique and upscale stay for those who want to explore Tampa's culinary scene.

🎭Attractions

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay

$$$$

African-themed amusement park with world-class roller coasters and one of the largest zoos in North America.

📍 6.5 miles10165 N McKinley Dr, Tampa, FL 33612

💡 A full-day commitment, but perfect if you're making a long weekend of your trip.

Ybor City Historic District

Free

Once the 'Cigar Capital of the World,' now a vibrant nightlife and cultural hub with brick streets and wild chickens.

📍 4.0 miles7th Ave, Tampa, FL 33605

💡 Take the TECO Streetcar for a fun way to explore the area. Great for people-watching and history.

🅿️Parking Options

🅿️

Raymond James Stadium Lot 4

$25
Lot📍 0.2 miles

💡 Directly adjacent to the stadium. Often reserved for season ticket holders, so check availability.

🅿️

HCC (Hillsborough Community College) Lots

$20
Lot📍 0.5 miles

💡 A popular and slightly cheaper option across Dale Mabry Hwy with a good tailgating scene.

Suggest a Tip

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

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References

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