Are you ready to dive into the exciting world of Northwestern Wildcats football? There's nothing quite like the atmosphere of a college football game, and getting your hands on tickets to cheer on the 'Cats is easier than you might think! This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from finding the perfect seats to understanding different ticket options. Let's get started!
How to Buy Northwestern Football Tickets: A Comprehensive Guide
Buying Northwestern football tickets can be a straightforward process if you know where to look and what to expect. Whether you're a die-hard fan looking for season tickets or just want to catch a single game, here's your step-by-step guide.
Step 1: Determine Your Ticket Needs
Before you even think about clicking "buy," take a moment to consider what kind of Northwestern football fan you are. This crucial first step will guide your entire ticket-buying journey.
Sub-heading: Are You a Season Ticket Holder in the Making?
Are you planning to attend every home game, soak in the full season experience, and enjoy priority access to future events? If so, season tickets are likely your best bet. Season ticket holders often receive benefits like:
Guaranteed seats for all home games
Potential savings compared to buying individual game tickets
Priority access to bowl game tickets or other special events
Exclusive perks and invitations
Sub-heading: Or Just Looking for a Single-Game Thrill?
Perhaps you're only in town for one weekend, or there's a specific opponent you absolutely must see the Wildcats play. In this case, single-game tickets will be your focus. These offer flexibility and allow you to pick and choose which games fit your schedule and budget.
Sub-heading: Student, Group, or Premium Seating?
Students: Northwestern University students typically have access to special student ticket programs, often at a significantly reduced price or even free for certain events. Always check the official Northwestern Athletics website for student-specific information.
Groups: Planning a large outing with friends, family, or colleagues? Group tickets can offer discounted rates and special seating arrangements.
Premium Seating: If you're looking for an elevated gameday experience with amenities like catering, comfortable seating, and exclusive club access, inquire about premium seating options. These often come with a higher price tag but offer unparalleled comfort and convenience.
Step 2: Navigate the Official Channels
When it comes to purchasing tickets, always prioritize official sources. This ensures authenticity, avoids inflated prices, and provides the best customer support.
Sub-heading: The Northwestern Athletics Official Website - Your Primary Hub
The absolute best place to start your ticket search is the official Northwestern Athletics website (NUsports.com). This site is the direct portal for all official ticket sales.
Visit NUsports.com: Head to the official athletics website. Look for a "Tickets" or "Football Tickets" section in the main navigation.
Explore Ticket Options: Once on the ticket page, you'll typically find distinct sections for:
Season Tickets: Information on renewing existing season tickets or purchasing new ones. Keep an eye out for renewal deadlines and new season ticket holder opportunities, which usually open up well in advance of the season (e.g., spring/early summer for the fall football season).
Single-Game Tickets: Browse the upcoming schedule and select the specific game you wish to attend. Single-game tickets usually go on sale closer to the season, often after season ticket renewals are complete.
Student Tickets: Dedicated information for Northwestern students.
Group Tickets: Details on how to arrange group purchases.
Create or Log In to Your Account: You'll likely need to create an account or log in to an existing one to proceed with a purchase. This allows you to manage your tickets, receive important updates, and access features like ticket transfer.
Sub-heading: Direct Contact with the Northwestern Athletics Ticket Office
Sometimes, a direct conversation can be the most effective.
By Phone: The Northwestern Athletics Ticket Office typically has a dedicated phone line for ticket inquiries and purchases. The number is usually prominently displayed on the official NUsports.com ticket pages. As of now, the general phone number is often 888-GO-PURPLE (888-467-8775).
In Person: If you're in the Evanston area, you can visit the Northwestern Athletics Ticket Office in person during regular business hours. It's usually located at or near the stadium (currently Ryan Field, but keep in mind stadium plans for future seasons). Always check their website for current hours and location before visiting.
Step 3: Consider Authorized Resale Marketplaces (If Official Tickets Are Sold Out)
Sometimes, popular games sell out quickly through official channels. In these cases, authorized secondary ticket marketplaces can be a viable option, but proceed with caution.
Sub-heading: Official Ticketmaster Resale
Northwestern University often partners with Ticketmaster, which may include an official fan-to-fan resale platform. This is generally the safest secondary option, as tickets are verified by Ticketmaster.
Check Ticketmaster.com: Search for "Northwestern Wildcats Football" on Ticketmaster. If official tickets are sold out, you might see a "Resale Tickets" section.
Look for Verified Tickets: On official resale platforms, look for indicators that the tickets are "verified" or "official resale." This provides a layer of security.
Sub-heading: Reputable Third-Party Resale Sites
Other well-known and generally reputable secondary marketplaces include:
StubHub
SeatGeek
Vivid Seats
AXS (Note: AXS also directly sells tickets for some events, so it's a primary source for certain games).
Important Considerations for Resale Sites:
Prices on resale markets are dynamic and can fluctuate significantly based on demand. You might pay above face value, especially for highly anticipated games.
Always check the seller's reputation and read reviews if possible.
Be wary of unusually low prices – if it seems too good to be true, it probably is.
Understand the platform's buyer guarantee in case of issues.
Step 4: Understand Seating and Pricing
Knowing where you want to sit and what you're willing to pay is crucial for a smooth purchase.
Sub-heading: Familiarize Yourself with the Stadium Layout
Northwestern plays its home games at Ryan Field, though a new stadium (Ryan Field's replacement) is under construction for future seasons. It's important to understand the current stadium layout.
Seating Charts: The NUsports.com website will have a detailed seating chart for Ryan Field (or its successor). This will show you different sections, views, and potentially even virtual seat views.
Sections and Views:
Sideline Seats: Often the most sought-after for direct views of the field.
Endzone Seats: Can offer a unique perspective, especially for goal-line action.
Upper Deck vs. Lower Bowl: Upper deck seats can be more affordable, while lower bowl seats offer a closer view.
Student Section: Typically located in a specific area (often the north endzone) and can be quite lively.
Opposing Team Seating: Usually in a designated area, often in the north endzone as well.
Sub-heading: Budgeting for Your Tickets
Ticket prices vary widely based on several factors:
Opponent: Games against highly-ranked Big Ten rivals or marquee non-conference opponents will almost always be more expensive.
Date/Time: Weekend games, especially prime-time matchups, tend to cost more.
Seat Location: Premium seats (club level, lower bowl sideline) will be the priciest, while upper deck or endzone seats are usually more affordable.
Demand: If the team is having a successful season, demand (and thus prices) will increase.
Be prepared for prices to change quickly, especially as game day approaches.
Step 5: Complete Your Purchase and Ticket Delivery
Once you've selected your tickets, the final steps involve payment and receiving your tickets.
Sub-heading: Payment Methods
The Northwestern Athletics Ticket Office generally accepts:
Credit Cards: American Express, Discover, MasterCard, and Visa are widely accepted.
Debit Cards: Often processed like credit cards.
Cash/Check/Money Order: May be accepted for in-person purchases at the ticket office. Full payment is typically required at the time of order.
Sub-heading: Ticket Delivery Options
Modern ticketing primarily relies on digital methods:
Mobile Ticketing: This is the most common and convenient method. Your tickets are accessible via your smartphone through the Northwestern Wildcats Athletics app or a link provided in your confirmation email. You simply scan your phone at the gate.
Print-at-Home/E-tickets: You may have the option to receive your tickets via email as a PDF, which you can then print at home.
Will Call: Tickets purchased close to the game day (typically less than 10 days out) or if you select this option, will be held at "Will Call" at the stadium. You'll need a valid photo ID to pick them up. Plan to arrive early if using Will Call to avoid lines.
Mail: Season tickets are often mailed a few weeks prior to the first home game. Individual game tickets might also be mailed if purchased well in advance. Ensure your address on file is accurate if choosing this option.
Sub-heading: Important Reminders Post-Purchase
Confirmation Email: Save your confirmation email! It contains vital information about your purchase.
Review Your Order: Double-check your game date, time, and seat location immediately after purchase.
Ticket Transfer: If you need to transfer tickets to friends or family, most official platforms (like Ticketmaster) offer an easy digital transfer option.
Step 6: Plan Your Game Day Experience
Having your tickets is just the first part! Enhance your game day by planning ahead.
Sub-heading: Parking and Transportation
Parking: Northwestern often has various parking options on campus or nearby, including surface lots and garages. Check NUsports.com for detailed information on parking passes, gameday parking availability, and tailgating policies. It's highly recommended to pre-purchase parking if available.
Public Transportation: Consider using public transportation options to get to the stadium to avoid traffic and parking hassles.
Sub-heading: Gameday Policies
Bag Policy: Most stadiums have a clear bag policy for security reasons. Familiarize yourself with Northwestern's specific policy before you go.
Prohibited Items: A list of items not allowed inside the stadium will be available on the athletics website.
Arrival Time: Arrive early to enjoy the pre-game atmosphere, navigate security, and find your seats without rushing.
You are now well-equipped to purchase Northwestern football tickets and enjoy a fantastic gameday experience! Go 'Cats!
10 Related FAQ Questions
How to find the Northwestern Wildcats football schedule?
You can find the official Northwestern Wildcats football schedule on the official Northwestern Athletics website, NUsports.com, typically under the "Football" section and then "Schedule."
How to purchase Northwestern football season tickets?
Northwestern football season tickets are typically purchased directly through the official Northwestern Athletics website (NUsports.com) during their renewal and new sales periods, which usually occur in the spring and early summer before the fall season. You can also contact the Northwestern Athletics Ticket Office by phone.
How to buy single-game Northwestern football tickets?
Single-game Northwestern football tickets are available for purchase on the official Northwestern Athletics website (NUsports.com) and through authorized ticketing partners like Ticketmaster. Sales usually begin closer to the football season, after season ticket sales.
How to get student tickets for Northwestern football games?
Northwestern University students typically access football tickets through a dedicated student ticketing program or portal on the NUsports.com website. Specific details and availability are communicated directly to enrolled students.
How to resell Northwestern football tickets if I can't attend?
Northwestern often allows ticket transfers through their official ticketing platform (e.g., Ticketmaster). You may also be able to resell tickets on authorized secondary marketplaces like StubHub or SeatGeek, but be aware of platform fees and potential pricing fluctuations.
How to find premium seating options for Northwestern football games?
Information on premium seating, including club access and suites, can usually be found on the "Tickets" or "Premium Seating" section of the official Northwestern Athletics website (NUsports.com) or by contacting the ticket office directly.
How to check the stadium's bag policy before a Northwestern football game?
The most up-to-date information on Ryan Field's (or its successor's) bag policy and prohibited items can be found on the "Gameday" or "Fan Info" section of the official Northwestern Athletics website (NUsports.com).
How to get parking for Northwestern football games?
Parking passes for Northwestern football games can often be pre-purchased through the official Northwestern Athletics website (NUsports.com) or through their ticketing partners. Information on gameday parking lots and shuttle services will also be available online.
How to transfer my Northwestern football tickets to someone else?
If you purchased digital tickets through the official Northwestern Athletics or Ticketmaster platform, you can typically transfer them to another individual using the "Ticket Transfer" feature within your online account or through the official mobile app.
How to contact the Northwestern Athletics Ticket Office?
You can contact the Northwestern Athletics Ticket Office by phone, usually at 888-GO-PURPLE (888-467-8775), or by email. Their operating hours and email address are typically listed on the "Tickets" or "Contact Us" sections of the NUsports.com website.
