Michigan Stadium, affectionately known as “The Big House,” stands as an iconic landmark in American sports. This legendary stadium is not just the home of the University of Michigan Wolverines football team; it’s a symbol of college football tradition and a must-visit destination for sports enthusiasts. If you’re planning a visit or simply curious about this monumental structure, you might be asking, Where Is Michigan Stadium located?
The answer lies in Ann Arbor, Michigan. Nestled at 1201 S. Main St., Ann Arbor, MI 48104-3722, Michigan Stadium is conveniently situated for fans traveling from various directions. Its location within Ann Arbor makes it easily accessible and a central point of interest within the city. To help you pinpoint its exact location and plan your journey, here are detailed directions:
Getting to Michigan Stadium: Directions and Address
Whether you’re arriving by air or road, reaching Michigan Stadium is straightforward. Here’s how to get there from different starting points:
Address for GPS: 1201 S. Main St., Ann Arbor, MI 48104-3722
From Detroit Metro Airport (DTW) and Points East:
If you’re flying into Detroit Metro Airport, the most common gateway for visitors from the east, follow these simple directions:
- Take I-94 West towards Ann Arbor.
- Exit at Ann Arbor-Saline Road (exit 175).
- Turn right onto Ann Arbor-Saline Road, which will merge into Main Street as you proceed north.
- Continue north on Main Street for approximately 1.5 miles.
- Michigan Stadium will be on your northeast side, at the corner of Main Street and Stadium Boulevard.
From Chicago and Points West:
Traveling from the west, including Chicago, is equally convenient via I-94:
- Take I-94 East towards Ann Arbor.
- Exit at Ann Arbor-Saline Road (exit 175).
- Turn left onto Ann Arbor-Saline Road, which becomes Main Street heading north.
- Continue north on Main Street for about 1.5 miles.
- You’ll find Michigan Stadium at the intersection of Main Street and Stadium Boulevard, on your northeast.
From Toledo and Points South:
Coming from Toledo or southern locations? U.S. 23 North is your primary route:
- Take U.S. 23 North.
- Merge onto I-94 West.
- Follow the directions from Detroit Metro Airport as outlined above.
From Flint and Points North:
For those approaching from Flint and northern areas, U.S. 23 South is the way to go:
- Take U.S. 23 South.
- Merge onto I-94 West.
- Again, follow the directions from Detroit Metro Airport to reach the stadium.
These directions ensure you can easily navigate to the heart of Wolverines country and experience the grandeur of Michigan Stadium.
A Glimpse into the History of the Big House
Understanding where is Michigan Stadium also involves appreciating its rich history. The stadium’s story began in the early 1920s, thanks to the vision of Fielding Yost, the legendary Michigan Wolverines coach. Recognizing the growing popularity of the team and the need for a larger venue than Ferry Field, Yost championed the construction of a new, massive stadium.
Despite initial hesitation from the Regents due to the recent expansion of Ferry Field in 1921, Yost’s persistence paid off. On April 22, 1926, approval was granted. Construction commenced on land that presented a unique challenge: an underground spring. This waterlogged ground turned into a quicksand-like consistency, famously swallowing a crane during construction, which, according to legend, remains buried beneath the stadium to this day. The high water table also dictated the stadium’s design, with nearly three-quarters of it built below ground level.
Yost’s ambitious vision was for a stadium capable of holding between 100,000 and 150,000 fans. A compromise was reached with the Regents and the University, setting the initial capacity at 72,000, with provisions for future expansion beyond 100,000. Financing was ingeniously secured through the sale of 3,000 bonds at $500 each, avoiding reliance on taxpayer funds.
Inspired by the Yale Bowl, the stadium’s construction utilized 440 tons of steel and 31,000 square feet of wire mesh. The initial structure featured 44 sections, 72 rows, and 72,000 seats, costing $950,000. Anticipating even larger crowds, Yost successfully requested an additional 10,000 temporary seats for the concourse. When Michigan Stadium opened its gates at the corner of Main Street and Stadium Boulevard, it boasted a capacity of 84,401, making it the largest college-owned stadium in the nation.
The inaugural game on October 1, 1927, saw Michigan triumph over Ohio Wesleyan 33-0. The official dedication followed three weeks later against Ohio State, another victory for the Wolverines. This dedication game was particularly significant as Ohio State sought to avenge Michigan’s victory at the dedication of their own stadium five years prior.
Experiencing the Big House Today
Michigan Stadium has continuously evolved, undergoing numerous renovations and expansions to reach its current capacity of 107,601. It holds the record for 258 consecutive crowds exceeding 100,000 through the 2014 season, including a peak attendance of 115,109 for the game against Notre Dame on September 7, 2013. This game broke the all-time attendance record for both college and NFL games, solidifying the Big House’s place in sports history.
Beyond football, Michigan Stadium has also hosted men’s and women’s lacrosse, further cementing its role as a versatile sporting venue.
While public walk-in tours are not available, guided tours can be arranged on weekdays through the Special Events Office (734-764-4599 or [email protected]). These tours, requiring arrangements at least two weeks in advance, offer an in-depth look at the stadium’s facilities and history for a fee. Detailed information on tour pricing, location, and policies can be found on the Special Events site.
For those seeking a premium experience, Michigan Stadium offers premium seating options. Further resources to explore include the stadium’s history, zero waste initiatives, awards, and photo galleries, all accessible through the University of Michigan Athletics website.
Conclusion: Your Visit to Michigan Stadium
Knowing where is Michigan Stadium is just the first step to experiencing this monumental venue. Located in Ann Arbor, Michigan, easily accessible by various routes, and steeped in nearly a century of history, Michigan Stadium offers more than just football games. It’s a destination that embodies the spirit of college sports and the enduring legacy of the Michigan Wolverines. Whether you’re a die-hard fan, a history buff, or simply curious, a visit to the Big House is an unforgettable experience. Plan your trip to Ann Arbor and witness firsthand the grandeur of Michigan Stadium.
