Things to Know When Going to a University of Mississippi Football Game
A saying among University of Mississippi (also known as Ole Miss) football fans is: “We may not win every game, but we never lose a party.” This sentiment truly captures the spirit of attending a game in Oxford, Mississippi. Although Ole Miss has had its ups and downs in football, their schedule boasts competitive SEC West teams. The Grove stands out as potentially the best tailgating atmosphere in college football, brimming with revelry just north of Vaught-Hemingway Stadium. Experience the essence of Southern culture during a college football weekend in Oxford.
When to Go
Ole Miss competes in the SEC West, and the SEC has established its non-divisional opponents until 2025. Noteworthy home games include matchups against Georgia in 2016, South Carolina in 2018, Florida in 2020, and Missouri in 2024. You can also anticipate thrilling games against Alabama and Auburn during even-numbered years, while LSU and Texas A&M will visit in odd-numbered years. The Mississippi State rivalry game, held during Thanksgiving, may lack the usual excitement due to student body absences unless both teams are doing well. While cross-division games against Vanderbilt may not generate as much hype, exploring Oxford is guaranteed to be enjoyable.
Tickets
Securing tickets can be challenging, as most are allocated to alumni or students. Therefore, consider searching through secondary ticket platforms like StubHub, eBay, or ticket aggregators such as SeatGeek and TiqIQ. While Craigslist offers deals, it poses some risks in ticket authenticity. Securing tickets early is advisable, especially for those traveling long distances.
Getting There
Reaching Oxford isn’t the simplest task. You can fly into Oxford University Airport via private jet or aboard Southern Airways Express from Atlanta, Destin, or Jackson on Fridays. Alternatively, flying into Memphis and then driving to Oxford takes about an hour and a half. Memphis is accessible from major cities across the country, making it a suitable entry point. The drive is manageable from nearby cities, including Jackson and Birmingham, making traveling to Oxford more convenient.
Where to Stay
Finding accommodations in Oxford can be problematic, particularly during game weekends when hotels in downtown are often fully booked months in advance. Explore options like the Downtown Oxford Inn and The Inn at Ole Miss if you’re planning ahead. For more budget-friendly options, hotels are available two or more miles away, including widely recognized chains such as Hampton Inn, Super 8, and Holiday Inn Express.
An alternative option is to rent an RV, providing a unique experience and convenient parking close to the stadium. For those flying into Memphis, renting an RV is a practical choice. Additionally, you might consider renting a house or condo through platforms like VRBO or Airbnb, particularly if located near The Square.
Tailgating
The highlight of your Ole Miss game experience is undoubtedly the Grove, a sprawling tailgating area renowned enough to have its own Wikipedia page. Fans gather here from Fridays before games, and setting up timelines may vary, so stay informed about local regulations. While traditionally open flames are prohibited, you’ll still feast on various prepared foods, from sandwiches to local favorites like Chick-fil-A.
Three essential rules apply at the Grove: No open flames, no cars allowed, and all drinks should be consumed from cups due to local laws regarding alcohol consumption. However, with camaraderie in abundance, you can easily join in on another group’s festivities. Come prepared with food and drinks, and dress to impress, as many attendees take their attire seriously.
Food in Oxford
Oxford boasts several esteemed eateries worth visiting. Begin your culinary journey at Big Bad Breakfast, famous for its hearty breakfasts featuring unique twists, including chili. Do not leave without trying their renowned biscuits, and consider returning for lunch, when they serve delicious fried chicken and burgers.
Your next stop should be Ajax Diner, offering classic Southern dishes like chicken and dumplings and fried catfish, as well as interesting burger options. Be sure to check out Phillips Grocery for their distinctive skillet-fried dough burger and The Lamar Lounge for their famous burgers.
For catfish lovers, Taylor Grocery, located 20 minutes south of town, is a must-visit. Reservations are advisable at City Grocery, known for its gourmet offerings, including oysters and exquisite cocktails. Also, don’t miss out on some local barbecue joints like Handy Andy’s.
Bars in Oxford
Your Ole Miss experience wouldn’t be complete without a visit to The Library. This vibrant bar is celebrated as one of the top college bars in the nation, featuring a club, live music venue, and sports bar. Expect to pay a cover charge on football weekends, but getting a library card can grant you free entrance.
The majority of Oxford’s nightlife occurs around The Square. Dive bars like the Rib Cage and Levee provide lively atmospheres, while Funky’s offers a more laid-back vibe with pizza and daiquiri options. For music lovers, Frank and Marlee’s piano bar and Proud Larry’s featuring local bands are worth checking out. Rooster’s is perfect for those wanting a raucous evening, catering to a lively crowd.
