The University of Utah hosts some of the state’s largest sporting and entertainment events each year, from Utah Football games and concerts at Rice-Eccles Stadium to basketball games, gymnastics meets, concerts, and many more special campus events at the Jon M. Huntsman Center. While these events bring excitement and community spirit to campus, they can also create significant impacts on parking availability, traffic flow, and travel times.

Whether you’re commuting to class, heading to work, conducting research, or attending an event, a little planning can go a long way. Here are some helpful tips to make your event-day experience smoother.

Know before you go

Before traveling to campus, check event schedules and transportation announcements. Parking impacts, lot closures, and traffic patterns can vary depending on the size and location of an event.

Football game days typically have the greatest impact on campus transportation due to the large number of attendees arriving at Rice-Eccles Stadium. Event parking operations, increased traffic volume, and road closures can affect both vehicle and pedestrian travel throughout the day.

Plan ahead by reviewing parking changes and road closures

The university regularly publishes large event parking maps and parking information to help commuters identify available locations and understand event-related impacts. Checking parking updates before arriving on campus can save valuable time.

Allow extra travel time and use real-time parking resources

One of the best strategies for event days is simply giving yourself more time. Traffic volumes increase significantly before and after major events, especially around Rice-Eccles Stadium, South Campus Drive, Foothill Drive, and surrounding campus roadways. Delays are common as vehicles enter and exit event parking areas.

If your preferred parking location is full, having a backup plan can save time and frustration. The university’s parking maps and transportation resources provide up-to-date information about parking locations and campus access. Familiarizing yourself with nearby garages, alternative lots, and transit connections can help you adapt if conditions change.

Expect increased pedestrian and vehicle traffic

Major events bring thousands of visitors to campus. Pedestrian and vehicle traffic can be especially heavy near stadium entrances, TRAX stations, parking lots, and major walkways.

Drivers, cyclists, and scooter riders should remain alert and allow additional time to navigate crowded areas safely.

Commuting and parking tips

For the best experience on event days:

• Check event-day parking and transportation updates before leaving home.
• Arrive earlier than usual.
• Consider riding UTA when possible.
• Have an alternate parking location in mind.
• Be patient as traffic management teams work to safely move visitors throughout campus.

For the latest parking maps, transportation updates, and event information, visit our website before your trip.