Cornell University Tailgating

All Cornell University lots must be evacuated two hours after game day events end. However, there is no need to worry as there are many Ithaca RV parks and campgrounds, some even as close as three miles from campus. Consider filling up your water and gas tanks in case the campground you choose lacks those amenities.

Buttermilk Falls State Park may be within walking distance for ambitious campers to Ithaca, New York, and lends better to smaller camping units seeking a primitive setting.

Big Red fans can find several campgrounds within 20 minutes of Schoellkopf Field. Robert H. Treman State Park is nearby and it offers camping spaces, showers, hiking trails, and a beautiful creek to swim in.

The Watkins Glen / Corning KOA is also available, though it’s almost an hour away. This KOA, however, has electric hookups, Wi-Fi, a laundry room, and a pool.

If you would like to get to the stadium without having to drive, consider taking the TCAT. Most tailgating lots are near the stadium, so you may not have to walk far between locations. Wear a comfortable pair of shoes if you tire easily. You may also want to bring a stroller if you’re traveling with children.

Remember to pack any red and white Cornell apparel, especially if it has a bear on it for your time at Schoellkopf Field. When the season gets underway in the fall, dress for mild to cool weather. In the winter, pack warmer clothes and accessories such as beanies, scarves, and gloves. Hiking boots, comfortable outdoor clothing, and a few hand warmers will come in handy for trails near any of the Finger Lakes National Forest Areas, most of which are within about an hour's drive.

If you plan to tailgate at Cornell once you buy a tailgate parking permit, remember to check what items are allowed in your lot. If you have a tow vehicle, consider driving it to the tailgating lot with a grill, some chairs, and a cooler. If cargo space is limited, focus on the essentials, including the grill and cooler. If you do have cargo space, bring a tent, a speaker, and maybe a fold-out table to prepare and serve food.

In past years, alcoholic beverages have allowed at the tailgate lots, and the environment is a family-friendly one for all Cornell fans. Also, keep an eye on your grill and make sure that children stay away at a safe distance. To prepare for emergencies, carry a first-aid kit in your camper. Remember to check trail maps and note where you park or are camped before heading out into Taughannock Falls State Park and other gorgeous sites.

Before you hear the sizzle coming from burger patties on the grill, make a trip to the store and stock up on groceries, supplies, and other essentials, such as water, ice, or charcoal. For something easy and tasty, you could grill up some chicken wings and toss them in buffalo hot sauce. Tomatoes, onions, red bell peppers, and potatoes in alternation would make for some white and red coloring on your Cornell University tailgate table.

It’s not the biggest city in the State of New York, but there are a decent amount of dining options in Ithaca. You’ll find a variety of different cuisines such as Italian, Mexican, Thai, and Chinese. Hungry travelers can enjoy eating by the water with amazing seafood at a sit-down restaurant or take a meal and along with you to enjoy Six Mile Creek less than three miles from campus.

Schoellkopf Field is quite small and may not have extensive food and apparel options for all events. The school’s dining department handles all the concessions at sporting events, where you will find traditional stadium food such as pretzels, burgers, hot dogs, and even street tacos. The concession stands do accept credit and debit cards as well as cash.