Here's the 4-1-1 on what to expect if you're heading for Charlottesville. Our thanks to Hamilton at the UVA blog Lambeth Field.
The Stadium - Scott Stadium is about 62,000 at capacity, but you won't see that much on Saturday, especially at noon. The major fan base outside of Charlottesville is Richmond (1 hour), DC (2 hours), and Hampton Roads (2-3 hours).
Opponent fans are in the Southeast Endzone and should enter from the Visitors entrance off the South or East Endzone. Concessions are very vanilla (hotdogs, popcorn, soda) although if you get there early enough to walk around, there are a few new buffalo wing stands on the North and South side which are pretty decent.
Bathrooms shouldn't be a problem, but as with any stadium, the rush at half could see a line. The North Endzone is a grass hill with pergolas and brick pavers. If you get a chance or want a change of scenery, bring something to sit on and head for the hill. It's GA, so sit wherever.
Tailgating and Parking - Your two best bets are the Basketball Stadium (John Paul Jones Arena) and Fontaine Research Park off Exit 118B from I-64. Walking distance is about 20 min. If you don't mind donating to college kids' beer funds, there's a ton of housing past the Fontaine Research Park that would allow for parking and some tailgating for about $20-30 a car. The key is getting there early.
Pre-Game Traditions - The kids are there early as their section is first come, first serve. Band plays before the game, and then they do "Adventures of Cavman." Several years ago they got Disney/Pixar to make a animatronic mascot who fights the opponents mascot, vanquishes them, and rides through Charlottesville in the movie, then runs across the field with the team to whatever "song du jour" they picked. To be honest Al Groh did the worst job at all of this last year and copycatted a bunch of stuff from other people, but London is trying some new things so we'll give him some time.
Fan Friendliness - It's not Blacksburg, but it ain't Durham either. We understand what kind of team we have, and depending on the game will determine the attitude of the fans.
The older alumni care about drinking whiskey and cokes, the students will be students, and the other 50% could go either way (although a noon kickoff should quiet them down a little).
***UVA is having a WHITE OUT for this game. It is the first time EVER they have done this, so I don't really know what to expect*** You will probably be safe on the hill, but again, like most other places, if you're the one Nole in a sea of Wahoos doing the WarChant all game, prepare to get heckled.
Last point: Most people still remember '95 around these parts. It was on continuous loop on college TV for a week leading up to the games in 97 ad 99. Most peoples' pin numbers are "3328", so they get pretty ampped for this one.
Local Eats & Drinks - Before game will be tricky, but after there are a ton of great eats in the city.
College kids favorites: The Corner District is right next to the Rotunda and host the post game "activities" that roll late night. While Biltmore, The Virginian, and The College Inn are all well and good, waiting in line at Little John's or The White Spot is definitely worth it. Little John's is host to the best (and biggest) subs around. The Chris Long Special or Nuclear are the best. But if you check with your doctor first, go to The White Spot and get a Gusburger. Cheeseburger with all the fixins plus a fried egg. Double Gus throws in eggs and ham. Hotdogs are wrapped in bacon. But the Grilled Wythe replaces the bun for halved donuts. Stick with the Gus and move on from there.
Locals Spot: Head to the Downtown Mall. There are no less than 50 restaurants within walking district, but these tend to be a little more expensive. Look for good eats at ZoCaLo's (Mexican-American Fusion), Bang (Asian Tapas), Blue Light Grill (Seafood), Bizou (American). Miller's is a nice jazz place with a pretty hefty bar, and South Street Brewery off the mall has great homemade beer and food. If you are around for Sunday Brunch, the Sheeben (South African/English Pub) and Blue Moon Diner are great brunch places, but if you are adventurous, stop by one of the three Bodo's Bagels in town. Bring cash, but they make all 20+ types of bagels everyday, with 40+ toppings. Personal favorite is Sesame Seed with chicken salad or egg bagel with rare roast beef and horseradish.
Fall Leaf Color - There should be some decent color this Saturday.
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