Beat The Game Day Crowds With Getaways That Are Close To Your Favorite College Towns

Towns like Athens, Auburn, and Oxford are epicenters for college football game day weekend stays. However, hotels nearby book months, sometimes even years in advance of the weekend festivities. Outsmart the crowds by booking a hotel in a nearby city. You’ll get a better deal and get to experience a new-to-you town, too. Here are some ideas to make the most out of your fall football travel. 

Instead Of Athens, Stay In Madison

Distance to Stadium: 28 miles

Madison is an idyllic town just a short drive from the University of Georgia’s home in Athens. The picture-perfect city has stunning architecture and impressive restaurants. Get in on Friday to enjoy cocktails and a fine dining menu at The Dining Room. Book a room at the newly renovated New South Motor Inn, a former motorlodge outfitted in retro-inspired decor. Before hitting the road to Athens, stop by Patisserie on Main for delectable French pastries and Farmview Market for tailgating snacks. 

Instead Of Auburn, Stay In LaGrange

Distance to Stadium: 45 miles

Cheer for the Tigers in Auburn, but unwind after in LaGrange. This town is all about convenience. It has a walkable downtown for quick access to shops and restaurants. If you want to be in Auburn for the tailgate but watch the game a little closer to home, head to Wild Leap brewery. Word to the wise: Keep your eye on the time as LaGrange is in Georgia, so it operates on Eastern Standard Time while Auburn is an hour behind. 

Instead Of Oxford, Stay In Tupelo 

Distance to Stadium: 55 miles

Escape the gameday frenzy and unwind in the heart of Mississippi. Tupelo, home to Elvis Presley, offers a unique blend of Southern charm and entertainment. Just a short drive from Oxford, it's the perfect basecamp for Ole Miss fans seeking a relaxing yet exciting gameday experience. Stay the night at Hotel Tupelo, have dinner at Forklift, and get a pair of custom collegiate colored jeans at Blue Delta. This Mississippi town has it all! 

Instead Of Baton Rouge, Stay In Natchez

Distance to Stadium: 94 miles

While this trek might be the farthest distance on our list of recommendations, it’s well worth the extra mileage. Natchez is away from the college town hustle while offering loads of attractions and restaurants. Check into one of Natchez’s stately bed and breakfasts such as The Big Muddy Inn for a good night’s rest as well as a stellar morning meal. Stop by Fat Mama’s Tamales to pick up the restaurant’s signature margarita mix and fire and ice pickles for the tailgate before hitting the road to Tiger Stadium, and you’ll be set for the day. 

Instead Of Clemson, Stay In Greenville 

Distance to Stadium: 39 miles

Looking for a gameday experience that combines thrilling football with urban excitement? Greenville is your answer. Explore its charming downtown area, filled with trendy shops, delicious restaurants, and a river running right through it. You can stay at any of the hotels downtown, or book a room at Hotel Hartness, a serene boutique property that has its own spa for working out those post-game aches and pains. Greenville provides a refreshing change of pace from the typical gameday atmosphere, making it an ideal destination for Clemson fans seeking a memorable weekend getaway.

Instead Of Fayetteville, Stay In Eureka Springs

Distance to Stadium: 46 miles

Just an hour from Fayetteville, Eureka Springs offers a fun escape before or after the big game. Immerse yourself in this charming Victorian town nestled in the Ozarks. Explore historic hotels, indulge in fine dining, or thrill-seek in the great outdoors—or the great underground like Onyx Cave Park. Blend relaxation, adventure, and a little football too for your gameday getaway.

Instead Of Tuscaloosa, Stay In Birmingham

Distance to Stadium: 58 miles

Birmingham offers Crimson Tide fans a mix of pre-game excitement and post-game relaxation. As Alabama’s largest city, it boasts a vibrant atmosphere with world-class dining, shopping, and entertainment. Scoot by Tina’s Market for tailgating essentials, and after the game is over, rest your head in luxe style at The Grand Bohemian. With easy access to Tuscaloosa and loads of activities to keep you entertained, Birmingham is the ideal basecamp for an unforgettable Alabama gameday experience.