Neyland Stadium Information
Neyland Stadium is much more than just a sports destination – it’s a cultural landmark in the heart of Knoxville that represents the soul of the Tennessee Volunteers football team. With its rich history, unique architecture, passionate fan base, and unforgettable moments, the Neyland Stadium will continue to be a cornerstone of college football for years to come.
Whether through the electric surroundings on game day or the storied tradition of the Volunteers, Neyland Stadium stands as a symbol of excellence, pride, and the enduring legacy of Tennessee football. In addition to the exciting atmosphere, the stadium also includes state-of-the-art facilities for the players, staff, and fans – we’re talking luxury suites, upgraded locker rooms, and even a press box for professional meetings. It can also be used to host large conventions and exhibition games.
Throughout its long history, Neyland Stadium has hosted countless memorable moments and achieved numerous milestones. With an official capacity of 101,915, it has been the site of some of the most thrilling games in college football history. It has also seen remarkable achievements, including multiple SEC, night games, Championships and major bowl game victories.
Once you walk into the Neyland Stadium, you will understand why it is one of the most iconic landmarks for college football. The stadium is located on 1235 Phillip Fulmer Way n 1235 Phillip Fulmer Way SW, Knoxville, Tennessee. The stadium hosted its first UT game on September 24, 1921, with the Tennessee Vols defeating Emory & Henry (27–0). Where else, the first night at the stadium was on Sept. 16, 1972 – Tennessee (28) vs. Penn State (21).
Its primary function is to be the home of the Tennessee Volunteers football team. Furthermore, it is used to host large conventions and has been a site for a few NFL exhibition games. From time to time, Neyland Stadium is also used for concerts, political rallies, and religious gatherings. One of the most notable non-sporting events of Neyland Stadium took place in May 1970. The stadium hosted the Billy Graham Crusade which President Richard Nixon was its guest speaker. On top of that, the Jacksons performed three concerts there in August 1984, during their Victory Tour.
Neyland Stadium is the fifth largest stadium in the United States, the sixth largest stadium in the world, and the second largest stadium in the Southeastern Conference. According to World Atlas, the seating capacity at Neyland Stadium is currently at 102,455. The stadium has undergone 16 expansion projects since its opening. When the capacity reached a whopping 104,079-seats, alterations were made to slightly reduce it in the following decade.
From 2004 to 2010, the latest additions and updates to the facility were added at a $136.4 million series of renovations cost. These renovations included the bricking around the field and the removal of the previous hedges, other changes inside and outside of the stadium structure, additions, and reconfigurations of seating areas, as well as a new home locker, press, and varsity rooms.
Most stadiums are named after someone the city or organization honors and the Neyland Stadium is no exception to this rule. This stadium was re-named in 1962 to honor of General Robert Neyland. He went to Tennessee as an ROTC instructor and backfield coach in 1925. In 1926, he was named head football coach in 1926. Neyland served three stints as head football coach at the University of Tennessee between 1926 and 1952. Under his leadership, the Tennessee Volunteers team blossomed in the college football arena, despite two interruptions for military service.
Colonel W.S. Shields, president of Knoxville’s City National Bank and a University of Tennessee trustee is the person who the Shield-Watkins Field (the playing surface at Neyland Stadium) is named after. It was in honor of Col. Shields and his wife, Alice Watkins-Shield. The stadium was first conceived in 1919 when Col. Watkins-Shields provided the initial capital to prepare and equip the athletic field.
History of Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, TN
The story of Neyland Stadium begins in 1921 when the University of Tennessee first constructed a simple wooden bleacher structure that could seat 3,200 fans. Originally named Shields-Watkins Field, it was built on land donated by Alice Watkins Shields and funded by her husband, Col. W.S. Shields. Shields was president of Knoxville’s City National Bank and a UT trustee. He and his wife provided the initial capital to prepare and equip an athletic field.
The current name honors General Robert Neyland – a legendary Tennessee football coach who transformed the Volunteers into a powerhouse program. Neyland served as head coach for three stints between 1926 and 1952, with two interruptions for military service, compiling a record of 173-31-12 and winning four national championships.
Over the decades, the stadium has undergone numerous expansions and renovations. The last major expansion was completed in 1996 with the North Upper Deck fully enclosing the upper level, adding over 10,000 seats. This reflects the growing popularity of college football and the fervor of the Volunteer fan base. From its modest beginnings, the stadium has expanded to its current capacity of 101,915, making it the fifth-largest stadium in the United States.
Other major expansions occurred between 1949 and the 1970s, adding thousands of seats to accommodate the ever-growing crowds. One of the most significant renovations came in the early 2000s with the Neyland Stadium Master Plan. This multi-phase project, completed over more than a decade, included upgrades to seating, concourses, and infrastructure, as well as the addition of premium seating options like luxury suites and club areas. These improvements preserved the stadium’s historic charm while modernizing it for the future.
As college football continues to evolve, Neyland Stadium remains committed to providing a world-class experience for its fans. Ongoing enhancements ensure that the stadium stays competitive with modern amenities while preserving its historic essence. Plans for future upgrades include improved fan amenities, technology integration, and sustainability initiatives to reduce the stadium’s environmental impact.
Did you know?
Positioned along the Tennessee River, the stadium offers stunning views, especially in the fall when the vibrant foliage adds a picturesque backdrop to game days. To honor its green location, Neyland Stadium has taken steps toward sustainability, including initiatives to reduce waste and promote recycling during events.
For further information on the Neyland Stadium at University of Tennessee, visit the pages listed below.
Parking Information:
Read about parking options available to event goers on the Neyland Stadium parking information page.
Ticket Policies:
For information on ticket guarantee and on our preferred ticket marketplace please view the Neyland Stadium tickets page.
Seating Chart & Information:
For information on accessible seating and see the venues seating map, please view the Neyland Stadium seating chart page.