School: University of Alabama
Team: Alabama Crimson Tide
Location: Tuscaloosa, AL
Conference: SEC
Stadium: Bryant-Denny Stadium (Capacity: 101,821)
One thing you will realize when you’re in Bryant-Denny is that these guys know they are good. “This is Alabama Football” over the loud speaker as the crowd responds with the legendary “Roll Tide” will make any college football fan’s spine shiver. You know you’re in the presence of greatness. The checkered crimson and white will be waving in your face all afternoon and for those that appreciate great programs, I think you will find a way to enjoy it.
The Weekend
Travel: Traveling to Tuscaloosa can be difficult. Birmingham is not the biggest of airports, but if you’re able to find a flight there it’s only an hour from campus. Another option is Atlanta, which is a three-hour drive, but I-20 is a straight shot to Tuscaloosa.
Lodging: There are a number of inexpensive hotels only about five minutes from campus. Try the Hotel Indigo which sits just a block from the river.
Local Food: The Low Country Shrimp & Grits at 301 Bistro. Can’t leave Alabama without trying this!
Local Drink: Everything happens on The Strip. Tons of places, both indoor and outdoor, to bar hop to and from. The Houndstooth is a great sports bar with outdoor seating and plenty of TVs to watch football. Get a Yellow Hammer at Gallettes right by the stadium.
The Tailgate
The SEC does the quad tailgate as good as anyone in the country and Alabama is no exception. The Quad sits a short walk from Bryant-Denny and is flooded with professional tailgates with tents, TVs, grills and plenty of footballs flying through the air. There is no restriction on alcohol here (as there is in some other campuses) so fire away. I highly suggest you use a tailgate company so that they can reserve you a spot, provide all the equipment and take care of the clean up.
Unique Tradition
After each win, the fans cheer proudly to “Rammer Jammer” while waving those famous crimson and white shakers at you. “Rammer Jammer, Yellow Hammer, Give ’em Hell, Alabama”. A great post-game tradition to see, and trust me, you will see it.
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