As fall rolls in and football season kicks off, fans are gearing up for a unique twist on tailgating—sailgating, where the pre-game festivities take place on the water. Boaters from across the U.S. anchor near stadiums to enjoy the perfect blend of football and waterfront views. Here are seven of the best stadiums where you can partake in sailgating:

1. Neyland Stadium – University of Tennessee Volunteers

Located along the Tennessee River, Neyland Stadium is home to one of the most famous sailgating groups, the Vol Navy. With fans arriving days in advance, the stadium buzzes with excitement as over 200 boats line the docks for game day.

2. McLane Stadium – Baylor Bears

Set on the Brazos River in Waco, Texas, McLane Stadium offers one of the best sailgating experiences in college football. Fans can reserve boat slips or dock along the lagoon, making it a central hub for pre-game festivities.

3. Husky Stadium – University of Washington

Husky Stadium boasts breathtaking views of Lake Washington and is a haven for football fans arriving by boat. With over 12,000 people flooding the water, sailgating here is not only a game day tradition but also a must-see spectacle in the Pacific Northwest.

4. Soldier Field – Chicago Bears

Burnham Harbor on Lake Michigan offers a picturesque backdrop for Chicago Bears fans, just minutes from Soldier Field. It’s the perfect mix of history and waterfront fun, as fans celebrate at the NFL’s oldest stadium.

5. Acrisure Stadium – Pittsburgh Steelers

At the junction of the Allegheny and Ohio Rivers, Acrisure Stadium (formerly Heinz Field) is a sailgating hotspot for Steelers fans. Boats dock along the North Shore, and shuttles from nearby marinas make access to the stadium seamless.

6. Oasis Marina at North Coast Harbor – Cleveland Browns

This marina on Lake Erie is a prime location for Browns fans to sailgate. Close to Huntington Bank Stadium, it provides both hourly and overnight slips, allowing fans to soak in the atmosphere before the game.

7. TIAA Bank Field – Jacksonville Jaguars

For those seeking a warmer sailgating experience, TIAA Bank Field in Jacksonville, Florida, is the ideal destination. Located on the St. Johns River, fans can dock at the nearby marina and walk to the stadium, taking in both football and sunshine.

These stadiums offer fans the chance to turn game day into a full-day adventure with food, drinks, and the open water. Whether you’re a college football diehard or an NFL enthusiast, sailgating brings a whole new level of excitement to the season.

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