Sanford Stadium 🇺🇸

Welcome to Dooley Field at Sanford Stadium, the iconic on-campus playing venue for University of Georgia football in Athens, Georgia. Holding 93,033 spectators, this historic arena stands as the ninth-largest American football stadium in the United States and NCAA. When you visit, you will experience what is widely recognized as one of college football’s best, loudest, and most intimidating atmospheres. Built into a natural valley between UGA's North and Science campuses, the stadium officially opened in 1929. Unlike many college football venues that rely on artificial surfaces, Sanford Stadium features natural Tifton 419 Bermuda Grass. As you look down at the pitch, you will see the famous privet hedges lining the perimeter, giving rise to the celebrated tradition of playing "between the hedges." Beyond football, the stadium hosted Olympic soccer during the 1996 Summer Games and set an NCAA collegiate soccer attendance record in 2026. Walk through the grounds to admire the sprawling grandstands, modern LED floodlighting, and impressive video displays. From its historic origins to recent expansions adding luxury suites, modern locker rooms, and the 50 Yard Line Club, visiting this legendary stadium connects you directly to deep Southern college sports history and passion.

What to see at Sanford Stadium

• Historic 93,033-seat venue located on UGA campus in Athens, Georgia
• Signature privet hedges surrounding the natural Tifton 419 Bermuda Grass field
• Ninth-largest American football stadium in the NCAA and United States
• Host site for 1996 Olympic soccer medal matches and major stadium concerts

Visiting tips

Take time to appreciate the natural valley terrain between North and Science campuses where the stadium's stands were originally built.

How long: 1-2 hours · Best time: Game days or early morning

How to get there & what’s nearby

Sanford Stadium is easy to reach on Athens’s public transport. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Athens travel guide.