Taking kids to Duke football game this weekend. Looking for tips on parking, time to get there, etc (Erwin: house)

[carolinakid]

My kids (9 and 11) are interested in going to a college football game so I'm taking them to the Duke game this weekend. Its their first game other than little league. The weather should be great.

I'm really looking for any ideas that would make their first football game experience positive.

Any tips on
- Best time to get there
- parking locations
- can we bring food and snacks into the stadium
- We might get there early to avoid chaos - what can I do in the meantime to keep the kids entertained.

I would prefer to take them to a carolina game - but I received some Duke tickets free from my work ...

[aldamon]

For some unknown reason, my father in law wants to go to a Duke football game every year for Thanksgiving, so I oblige and take him.

1. We usually show up about 90 minutes early and have no trouble finding on-site parking via 751 entrance. They have people directing traffic.

2. Follow the parking attendants.

3. Not officially, no. See the Web site. Food is reasonably priced (for an event) inside the stadium though. I don't think they'll pat you down for a candy bar though.

4. There are plenty of parking lots for pre-game activities like any other sporting event. I think there are kiddie activities set up around the venue but I can't remember.

[toot68]

Traffic has been a pain the last few years since Duke went all UNC with their parking pirates. If you are going to show up early, there shouldn't be too much of a problem. The public parking is off Erwin Rd, with entrances on Lasalle and Research (I'd do the lasalle entrance, as getting out of the garage on Research after the game could be a pain in the butt).

You cannot bring food into the game. They will search you if you have a big bag with you.

As far as what to do if you show up early, it will be a gorgeous day to walk around campus. You can grab lunch in the bryan center, which of note has an Armadillo Grill (very tasty soft tacos, great chicken wings too). There's a locopop stand on the causeway between bryan and the main quad, and some additional food vendors (a hot dog/sausage stand, and a greek food stand with great gyros).

Inside the game, there's a big inflatable slide and a bouncy house for kids to play in, if your kids still enjoy that kind of thing. A pretty good variety of food, as well, but I'd be inclined to eat on campus then go to the game.