What is the capacity of Alaska Airlines Field at Husky Stadium?

Husky Stadium holds 70,183 and is the largest stadium in the Pacific Northwest. Its U-shaped design opens to stunning views of Lake Washington, the Cascades, and Mount Rainier. It holds the record as the loudest college stadium ever recorded—and may have originated "the wave" in 1981.

🏛️History

Origins

Built in 1920 with 30,000 seats, replacing Denny Field. Originally called University of Washington Stadium, renamed Husky Stadium in 1970. Alaska Airlines purchased field naming rights in 2015 for $41M over 10 years—then the largest such deal in college athletics.

Major Renovations

195025,000 seats added with two-story press box and roof

1968First major college to install AstroTurf

2013$280M rebuild: entire stadium demolished except north upper deck; field lowered 4 feet

Notable Moments

1991Washington captures national championship in undefeated season

Oct 31, 1981Possible birthplace of "the wave" during Stanford game

2024Washington's first Big Ten season after Pac-12 dissolution

🎟️Visitor Guide

Best Seats

Rows 30-42 in sections 105-107 and 128 offer great midfield views. Don James Center (sections 228-230) has theatre-style chairbacks and fireside lounge. West side has best rain protection. Washington sideline is in front of 128-130; visitors in front of 105-107.

Parking Tips

Pay-By-Phone required for campus lots E17, E19, E20, E21 (near stadium). Lot E18 opens at 9am for serious tailgaters. Light rail is easiest—free parking at Angle Lake, Tukwila, and Northgate stations; $2.25-$3.50 fare drops you at the stadium entrance.

Game Day

"Sailgating" on Lake Washington draws 3,000+ fans in boats—anchor in Union Bay without permit, or reserve Husky Harbor dock space. Washington crew offers shuttles to/from boats. Bring ear protection—it's deafeningly loud. Layer up and bring rain gear; Seattle weather is unpredictable. Post-game, hit Shultzy's or Big Time Brewery on University Way.