SAN ANTONIO – The Valero Alamo Bowl returns for its 32nd year. If you plan to attend, here’s a guide to everything you need to know before heading out.
The No. 17-ranked BYU Cougars will face the 23rd-ranked Colorado Buffaloes at 6:30 p.m. on Dec. 28 in the Alamodome.
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The two teams will play against each other for the first time at the Alamo Bowl. BYU is making its first appearance in the Alamodome while Colorado returns for the fourth time.
Single-game tickets are still available online through Ticketmaster.
If you can’t make it to the ‘Dome, all you have to do is turn on your TV and pull up a chair. The game will be broadcast at 6:30 p.m. live on KSAT 12.
Pregame celebrations
Fan Zone: The Fan Zone will be a gathering that is free and open to the public to join other fans, alumni groups and university bands to celebrate before the game. The celebration will be from 1-6 p.m. on Dec. 28 at The Espee, which is located at 1174 E. Commerce St.
Simmons Bank Pregame Party: People can enjoy all-inclusive food buffets and open bars during the Simmons Bank Pregame Party from 3-6 p.m. at The Espee Pavilion, a block north of the Alamodome.
VIA Park and Ride
Fans can take advantage of VIA’s Park and Ride to get to the game.
Guests can park their vehicles for free at either the VIA Crossroads Boulevard location (151 N. Crossroads Blvd.) or Stone Oak Park (22139 US-281).
Here’s what you need to keep in mind before taking the shuttle:
- Riders will pay a $1.30 fare each way using the shuttle
- Service to the Alamodome will be from 3:30-6:30 p.m.
- Service ends one hour after the game
- VIA also offers discounts to seniors, veterans, active duty personnel and students. Cash and credit are accepted on location. Riders can also purchase fares on the VIA goMobile app.
For more Park and Ride service details, click here.
Map
Rideshare service
If you prefer to use a rideshare service, here’s what you need to know.
Uber riders can save a few bucks on their trip to the Alamodome.
According to the Alamo Bowl’s website, with courtesy of Silver Eagle Beverages, Uber riders can use the promo code HOLIDAYRIDE24 during Bowl week to receive a $10 credit while supplies last.
The Alamodome has a dedicated drop-off and pick-up lot: Lot D. Lot D is located at 638 Tower of the Americas Way, across Interstate 37, near the now-closed UTSA Institute of Texan Cultures.
To avoid traffic, the Valero Alamo Bowl said fans have previously said they found it convenient to get dropped off at either 600 E. Crockett Street (north of the Alamodome) or 900 Hoefgen Avenue (south of the Alamodome).
Parking and street closures
If you would rather drive to the Alamodome, Valero Alamo Bowl recommends attendees to not take the same routes as VIA would.
According to the Alamodome website, during peak traffic times, northbound Cherry Street will be closed at E. Cesar E. Chavez Boulevard.
For guests who plan to park in Lots B or C, the Alamodome’s website suggests traveling southbound on N. Cherry Street from E. Commerce Street or E. Houston Street to access either parking lot.
The Alamo Bowl’s website states that U.S. Highway 281 and I-37 are normally congested several hours before the start of the game. They also urge guests who do not have an Alamodome parking pass to not exit near the facility.
Some nearby parking lots and garages in the downtown area from the City of San Antonio website include:
- Convention Center Garage: Located at 41 S. Bowie St. and 850 E. Commerce St.
- Houston/Nolan Lot: Located at Houston at Elm under the Interstate 37 underpass.
- Martinez Parking Lot: Located at S. Alamo and Martinez Streets.
- S Alamo Street: Located at 418 S. Alamo.
- Houston Street Garage: Located at 111 College St.
Items allowed/not allowed inside the stadium
If you have arrived at your destination but are unsure if your bag is allowed inside, here’s what to know.
To avoid a trip back to your car to drop off an item not allowed in the Alamodome, here’s the list of approved bags:
- Small bags and/or clutches - 5.5 inch-by-8.5-inch or smaller
- 12 inch-by-6 inch-by-12-inch items that are all clear fanny packs, backpacks and plastic bags
- 3 inch-by-4 inch clutch purse
- 1-gallon clear plastic storage bag
An exception for diaper and medical bags can be allowed after inspection.
Click here for a full list of items not allowed inside the Alamodome.