Jack Trice Stadium

Reviewing venue policies before arriving at Jack Trice Stadium can help guests plan for a smoother game-day or event experience. Policies may vary by event, so it is recommended to check the official venue guidelines before attending.

• Re-Entry & Smoking: Guests who leave the stadium must have their tickets scanned upon exit of the stadium in order to re-enter. Re-entry is permitted at all gates but is not allowed before kickoff or after the start of the fourth quarter. Re-entry policies may vary by event. Smoking, including e-cigarettes and vaping devices, is prohibited inside the stadium.³
• Payment Options: Jack Trice Stadium is a cashless venue and accepts credit and debit cards, as well as mobile payment options.³
• Prohibited Items: Outside food and drinks, drones, weapons, selfie sticks, oversized signs, and large bags are not permitted inside Jack Trice Stadium. Check out the full list of prohibited items on the Iowa State Cyclones official policy page.³
• Age Restrictions: Most events at Jack Trice Stadium are open to all ages unless otherwise noted on the event page.³

For the most up-to-date guidance and information on regulations (including bag policies), check the official Jack Trice Stadium policy page.

Fans heading to Jack Trice Stadium can find plenty of entertainment venues throughout the Ames and Des Moines areas. From college sports arenas to large concert venues, the region hosts live music, comedy shows, family shows, and major sporting events throughout the year.

• Hilton Coliseum: The Hilton Coliseum is located on the Iowa State University campus and is home to Iowa State’s basketball, wrestling, and volleyball teams. The arena regularly hosts concerts, family shows, and touring entertainment events alongside major collegiate sporting events.⁴
• Casey’s Center: Casey’s Center is situated in downtown Des Moines and regularly hosts concerts, sporting events, comedy tours, and family productions. With a capacity of around 17,000, it has welcomed many nationally touring artists and major live events over the years.⁵
• Vibrant Music Hall: The Vibrant Music Hall is located in Waukee and is known for hosting rock, country, pop, and comedy performances. Its smaller setting gives fans a more intimate live music experience while still attracting well-known touring acts.⁶

Jack Trice Stadium has several parking lots surrounding the Iowa State Center complex, providing fans with convenient access to football games, concerts, and other major events. Accessible parking spaces and shuttle services are available during select events.

Public Transportation: Ames’ CyRide transit system serves the stadium area, with multiple bus routes stopping near Jack Trice Stadium and the Iowa State Center. During football games and large events, additional shuttle services are often available throughout Ames and the Iowa State campus.⁷

Driving: Jack Trice Stadium is located at 1732 Jack Trice Way, Ames, IA 50011, near Interstate 30 and University Boulevard. Several parking lots surround the Iowa State Center complex, giving guests a variety of parking options within walking distance of the stadium. Nearby parking options include:

• Lot S1: 1185 University Blvd, Ames, IA 50011
• Lot 85E: 1720 S 4th St, Ames, IA 50011

Jack Trice Stadium features a variety of food and drink options throughout the concourse during Iowa State football games and major events. Fans can grab stadium favorites like hot dogs, burgers, pizza, popcorn, and pretzels, along with rotating specialty items and local-style snacks.⁸

Beer and other alcoholic beverages are available in select premium spaces and designated concession areas during events and concerts. Guests can also find soft drinks, bottled beverages, and grab-and-go snacks throughout the stadium, making it easy to pick up refreshments between plays and performances.⁸

Jack Trice Stadium opened in 1975 as the home of the Iowa State Cyclones football team and has been a major part of Iowa State University traditions ever since. Originally known as Cyclone Stadium, the venue was renamed in 1997 in honor of Jack Trice, Iowa State’s first Black athlete in school history. Renovations and expansions over the years have added updated seating, premium spaces, and modern fan amenities while preserving the stadium’s strong connection to Cyclones football.¹

Beyond football, Jack Trice Stadium has hosted major concert events featuring artists including The Rolling Stones, Paul McCartney, U2, Pink Floyd, and Elton John. The venue also welcomed the concert series, Farm Aid VI in 1993, bringing performers such as Johnny Cash, Willie Nelson, and Bryan Adams to Ames.²