Top Big Ten® college football destinations for fall
With decades of tradition and serious tailgating, Big Ten® college football season brings out the best of back-to-school nostalgia — especially when you have the perfect place to stay.
By Alina Dizik | July 10, 2025 (Updated August 6, 2026)
Fall means football — and back-to-school preparations aren’t complete without some team spirit. With a lively atmosphere and plenty of action, these hotels have everything you need for a memorable game day. From well-appointed gyms to some of the best food, small details turn a casual weekend into the ideal getaway. Consider these stays for unforgettable game-day adventures.
In this article: Best places for a game-day getaway
Eugene, Oregon
University of Oregon fans know that Ducks stick together, which means you might already be planning your next game-day visit. Stay at Graduate by Hilton Eugene, and you'll be within walking distance of Autzen Stadium. Decorated in the teams’ signature forest green, the hotel puts school spirit front and center with a playful design that’s an homage to the state’s rich sports history, including plenty of memorabilia to discover. The comfortable rooms are spacious for staying with family or friends, and the Presidential Suite even features a full living room — perfect for entertaining post-game. Before heading to campus, fuel up at Poindexter Coffee for a hearty breakfast, such as the egg sando and Dungeness crab omelet. When you're ready to call it a night, hop into Trophy Room restaurant and bar just off the lobby for some celebratory cocktails.
State College, Pennsylvania
Whether you’re visiting for homecoming weekend or a big game, celebrating Penn State’s storied Nittany Lions at Beaver Stadium is always a blast. And staying at Graduate by Hilton State College makes for a memorable Happy Valley getaway. Located in the heart of downtown State College, steps from campus and just over 2 miles (3.2 kilometers) from Beaver Stadium and the Bryce Jordan Center, getting to and from events couldn’t be easier. Refuel at the hotel’s Trophy Room restaurant, which offers dishes like smash burgers, bucatini, and three-cheese grilled cheese. It’s not uncommon for Lions fans to gather in the lobby for some festive pre- and post-game-day revelry. Traveling on a weekday? The hotel’s dedicated work and meeting rooms are designed to help you meet your goals if you don’t want to work from the comfort of your room. Don’t forget to visit the Lion Shrine on the northwest corner of campus and take a selfie with a symbol of Penn tradition and pride.
Oxford, Mississippi
The charming campus of Ole Miss doesn’t shy away from celebrating the Rebels, and there’s no better place to yell “Hotty Toddy” than at Vaught-Hemingway Stadium on game day. Make Graduate by Hilton Oxford your home base to stay close to the action and keep your school spirit up in curated rooms that include plenty of Rebel Red. Located right on The Square, the cultural hub of the city center lined with boutiques and restaurants, the hotel's just a quick walk from the University of Mississippi campus. Plan your stay with the help of the hotel's concierge and soak up some game-day fun hanging out with other Ole Miss fans in the well-appointed lobby. Pair a stunning sunset at The Coop on the rooftop terrace with Ole Miss-inspired cocktails and game-day food specials. In the morning, check out Cabin 82, the hotel’s café inspired by the local Neshoba County Fair, for house-made biscuits and coffee, and come back for hearty lunch offerings.
Ann Arbor, Michigan
Home to the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor blends college-town energy with a thriving arts scene, acclaimed restaurants, independent bookstores, and leafy neighborhoods made for strolling. Visitors can catch live performances, explore galleries and museums, paddle along the Huron River, or enjoy the city’s many parks and trails Graduate by Hilton Ann Arbor puts fans steps from campus, with the University of Michigan directly across the street. This central location makes it a natural fit for game day and other campus events, especially for alumni and first-time visitors who want restaurants, bars, and Ann Arbor landmarks within walking distance. Keep plans flexible before and after kickoff, moving between downtown and campus without having to cross town. The design blends collegiate nostalgia with modern touches, blue and maize decor, and team traditions. The collegiate theme continues in the guest rooms, too, with playful custom artwork, vintage-inspired details, and design elements that celebrate both campus life and Ann Arbor history. Allen Rumsey Cocktail Lounge is an ideal spot to reconvene in the evening, while Poindexter Coffee works well for guests heading toward campus in the morning.
Columbus, Ohio
Fans of Ohio State will feel right at home at Graduate by Hilton Columbus, which offers campus character in the Short North Arts District. The design references university traditions, Ohio history, and local figures like Archie Griffin and Jesse Owens, with collegiate-inspired details throughout the hotel. The resulting design is uniquely suited for alumni weekends, first campus visits, and football getaways. The hotel feels polished, spirited, and firmly tied to the traditions that bring many visitors here — without losing practical comfort or location clarity. The on-site restaurant, Homage Bar, is also the perfect spot to grab classic American favorites for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Plus, galleries, boutiques, and independent dining sit close by, so you can easily explore the neighborhood before and after the big game.
Madison, Wisconsin
Madison, Wisconsin, blends lakeside scenery, lively college-town energy, and a strong food and arts scene anchored by the University of Wisconsin–Madison. Visitors can explore the State Capitol, stroll the Isthmus between Lake Mendota and Monona, and enjoy farmers markets and bike-friendly paths. For a stay that captures the city’s collegiate spirit with playful design and comfortable amenities, consider Graduate by Hilton Madison. The hotel places travelers close to campus, downtown attractions, and the waterfront, making it an ideal home base for exploring all that this charming Midwest city has to offer. The hotel’s rooftop restaurant and bar, Camp Trippalindee, gives you an easy evening option after a full game day. Enjoy Madison views with playful drinks and Wisconsin-leaning food, including beer brats, burgers, cheese curds, and Capri-style cocktails. On warm evenings, the rooftop becomes especially lively as the sun sets over Lake Mendota, extending the campus energy into a relaxed, social atmosphere above the city.
Los Angeles
For fans who prefer to pair University of Southern California football with a vibrant urban itinerary, The Wayfarer Downtown LA, Tapestry Collection by Hilton, puts you in the center of the action in downtown Los Angeles. Pregame with skyline views and craft cocktails at The Rooftop or celebrate a win at the stylish Gaslighter Social Club. For University of California, Los Angeles fans, Pasadena is the most obvious location when proximity is the priority. Hilton Pasadena is just a short drive to Rose Bowl Stadium and within walking distance of the event-day shuttle stop. The hotel also sits near the historical streets of Old Pasadena, where art galleries, diverse restaurants, and independent shops along Colorado Boulevard give you plenty to do before and after kickoff. When you’re not exploring, relax at the hotel’s heated outdoor pool or share a toast with fellow fans at Corner Craft Kitchen & Bar.
Seattle, Washington
Fans who want the weekend to start with the vibrant energy of the University District should base themselves at Graduate by Hilton Seattle. The hotel is located close to the University of Washington, making it a natural fit for a football weekend. The hotel pairs nostalgic collegiate design elements with practical game-day features, including free Wi-Fi, a fitness center, valet parking, and pet-friendly rooms. Before kickoff, the neighborhood’s coffee shops, bookstores, and campus paths give fans a lively route toward Husky Stadium, with Lake Washington “sailgating” boats visible near the stadium waterfront. After the crowd thins, Mountaineering Club gives you a rooftop spot with wide Seattle views and dishes and drinks that showcase a bounty of regional ingredients.
Iowa City, Iowa
Set along the Iowa River, Iowa City blends literary charm with lively Midwestern spirit. Home to the University of Iowa, it hums with creative energy, from indie bookstores to bustling cafés. On fall weekends, black-and-gold pride takes over as fans rally behind the football team, filling the streets with game-day buzz. Graduate by Hilton Iowa City makes the strongest case for travelers who want their explorations of Iowa City to begin the moment they arrive. Set on the Ped Mall, a walkable downtown hub known for sidewalk cafés, boutiques, and steady foot traffic, this stay puts you close to University of Iowa and Kinnick Stadium. The hotel’s decor leans into playful, college-town nostalgia, with touches of Old Gold, custom art, and plenty of University of Iowa football charm. Poindexter Coffee makes an easy first stop before a full day, while Wilder gives you a built-in spot to settle in later with a more social mood.
Lincoln, Nebraska
Home to the University of Nebraska, Lincoln transforms into a sea of red on football weekends, creating one of college football's most electric game-day atmospheres. Graduate by Hilton Lincoln is a strong choice for travelers who want Historic Haymarket character close to campus and Memorial Stadium. The hotel features nostalgia-inspired design with campus-themed décor, local-history references, and social spaces that are ideal for a college-town weekend. In addition to a central location, you’ll also enjoy an on-site restaurant, free Wi-Fi, and an indoor pool. Alumni groups, younger travelers, and first-time visitors can stay close to campus activity without complicated cross-town logistics or scattered plans. After the final whistle, the Haymarket puts restaurants, bars, and shops nearby, keeping pregame meals and postgame plans concentrated in one neighborhood.
East Lansing, Michigan
In East Lansing, where you base yourself shapes the pace of a Spartan Saturday. Fall color lines the Red Cedar River, tailgates fill campus lawns, the Spartan Marching Band thunders toward Spartan Stadium, and Grand River Avenue stays lively through the weekend. If you want to immerse yourself in game-day energy from the moment you wake up, Graduate by Hilton East Lansing puts you right in the center of the action. Located right across the street from the Michigan State University campus, this unique stay captures the essence of campus life with playful, MSU-inspired design details, including nods to legendary alumni and traditions. You’re just a short walk from the Red Cedar River, the iconic Spartan Statue, and the pre-game buzz on Grand River Avenue. Whether you’re grabbing a coffee before kickoff at Poindexter Coffee or celebrating with fellow fans at Graduate Rock Bar after the final whistle, you’ll have everything you need to experience the vibrant spirit of East Lansing all weekend long.
Minneapolis, Minnesota
A Golden Gophers weekend brings maroon-and-gold spirit across the University of Minnesota, from “Ski-U-Mah!” calls to Dinkytown pregame rituals, Stadium Village crowds, and the rhythmic beat of the Pride of Minnesota Marching Band. For fans prioritizing a seamless arrival and quick stadium access, Hilton Garden Inn Minneapolis University Area puts you right in the middle of the action. The University of Minnesota and Huntington Bank Stadium are within walking distance, sparing you the hassle of cross-town traffic and game-day parking. Inside, you will find all the essentials, including an indoor pool, a fitness center, and an on-site restaurant and 24-hour market for grabbing a quick bite before kickoff or unwinding after the final whistle. During downtime, explore the expansive campus grounds, visit the historic Williams Arena and Mariucci Arena, or head downtown to enjoy the city’s craft brewery scene.
Bloomington, Indiana
Set amid rolling hills in southern Indiana, Bloomington is a vibrant college town that buzzes with Indiana University pride. Visitors flock to the campus for tours, game days at Memorial Stadium, and basketball showdowns at Assembly Hall. Beyond sports, you’ll find lively arts, eclectic dining, and scenic trails. Graduate by Hilton Bloomington is the optimal pick if you want your long Bloomington weekend wrapped in campus personality. Set steps from Indiana University and Sample Gates, this stay places morning campus walks, pre-game buzz, and late-night Kirkwood Avenue plans into one easy orbit. Inside, the hotel leans into Bloomington's collegiate story with playful, locally inspired design. Convenient self-parking makes it easy to roam between campus corners and downtown. This hotel gives alumni, couples, and returning fans the fullest college-town mood, from slow campus wandering to the excited rush building before kickoff.
West Lafayette, Indiana
Game day at Purdue is more than just the action on the field — it’s about the flow of your entire weekend. From pre-game breakfast plans to the ease of navigating to Ross-Ade Stadium and finding that essential post-game reset, where you stay sets the tone for your trip. Hampton Inn & Suites West Lafayette is ideal for a streamlined stay. Located just off Interstate 65, the hotel puts you within easy reach of Ross-Ade Stadium and Boilermaker hotspots. Kick off game day with free hot breakfast before joining the legendary Breakfast Club, where students don creative costumes and gather at campus bars. As game time approaches, make your way to Slayter Hill to enjoy the pep rally and tailgating scene. Back at the hotel, free parking, an indoor pool, and a fitness center keep your stay simple, while the on-site market is always stocked for quick snacks or forgotten essentials.
Champaign, Illinois
Champaign-Urbana blends Midwestern charm with a lively, youthful energy, making it an engaging getaway. Anchored by the University of Illinois, the twin cities hum with creativity, from art-filled streets to innovative dining spots. Stroll tree-lined campus paths, catch a game for a dose of local pride, or explore museums and music venues shaped by student life. For football fans who want a short, simple path between coffee, kickoff, and the walk back after the final whistle, Hilton Garden Inn Champaign/ Urbana is the answer. It’s a quick walk from both Memorial Stadium and State Farm Center, so you can skip the parking pressure and spend more time enjoying a packed game-day weekend. Inside, the on-site dining at The Garden Grille & Bar makes pregame meetups and late bites easy, while the indoor pool adds a welcome reset after a long day. The hotel also offers Confirmed Connecting Rooms by Hilton™, which makes it easy to stay with friends and family during your campus visit.
Evanston, Illinois
Evanston, Illinois, combines the energy of a vibrant college town with the charm of a Lake Michigan getaway. Many visitors come to tour Northwestern University, attend campus events, cheer on their favorite football team, or visit students and faculty. Beyond campus, you'll find walkable neighborhoods, great restaurants, beaches, and easy access to downtown Chicago. Graduate by Hilton Evanston is the campus-rooted pick for guests who want Northwestern to be the center of the weekend. The hotel is two blocks from campus, which makes it ideal for move-in days, graduation festivities, football games, alumni meetups, and more. This stay has a spirited, locally inspired designthat immerses alumni, parents, and fans in thecollege-town culture. You’ll enjoy free Wi-Fi, the fitness center, Confirmed Connecting Rooms by Hilton, pet-friendly rooms, and meeting rooms to shape your day around campus plans. The on-site restaurant is a convenient landing spot for early-weekend dinners and postgame meals.
College Park, Maryland
On fall Saturdays, College Park fills with red, white, black, and gold as fans set up tailgates and move toward SECU Stadium. A University of Maryland football weekend is an immersive experience, and picking the right home base helps you stay locked into that spirited game-day atmosphere. For the most campus-focused choice, Hampton Inn College Park keeps the weekend practical, convenient, and low-stress. You’re just a short drive from SECU Stadium and the eclectic mix of restaurants, bars, and shops lining Baltimore Avenue. Kick off game day with free hot breakfast before heading toward campus, where you can join the “Terp Walk” before kickoff at the Jones-Hill House or explore the Terpsville Fan Fest, an all-ages pre-game party featuring inflatables, yard games, and big screens. With free parking and easy access to the stadium gates, you can spend less time navigating traffic and more time soaking in the school spirit alongside fellow fans. After the game, you can debrief with your crew in your Confirmed Connecting Rooms by Hilton.
Piscataway, New Jersey
A Rutgers football game day comes down to geography. While the roar of the crowd centers on SHI Stadium at the university’s Busch Campus, the Scarlet Knights spirit spans five distinct sub-campuses across the main campus in New Brunswick and the stadium in Piscataway, New Jersey. Want to cut down on your commute to kickoff? Embassy Suites by Hilton Piscataway Somerset is just a quick drive from SHI Stadium on the Rutgers University-Busch Campus. This hotel is an ideal choice for a seamless game day, keeping you close to the stadium action while remaining within easy reach of bars, coffee shops, and fan gatherings in New Brunswick. Settle into your spacious, two-room suite between events, or grab a bite at Ellington’s after the game. The hotel also offers complimentary evening receptions, free parking, and free made-to-order breakfast to fuel a full day cheering on the Scarlet Knights.
Alina Dizik
Alina Dizik is a veteran lifestyle journalist, covering travel, real estate, family, work trends, and dining. She lives in Chicago and has previously lived in New York, Europe, and the Middle East. She spends more than two months each year traveling internationally with her husband and two school-age children. Alina has visited more than 50 countries, and her work appears in The Wall Street Journal, BBC, The Cut, The Guardian, and other top publications.
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