The best places to watch a college game are those that have
enough space for everyone who wants to attend, yet at the same time
are crowded enough to provide all the jostling, cheering
elbow-to-elbow excitement fans expect.
They should also have a surplus of mouth-watering,
cholesterol-spiking edibles like hotdogs, nachos, popcorn,
pretzels, etc. And don’t forget the drinks. Beer on tap is the best
way to go, especially if the venue lets you double-fist it.
Sports bars are a great place to go if you can’t attend the
college game in person. Choose one with comfortable booths that
give you full range of all of its televisions (and it should have
plenty). Make sure the game of your choice is playing on at least
one of those TVs, or request it beforehand. Invite your friends,
order some burgers and fries, and prepare to cheer for your
favorites.
Another great place to watch a college game is on your living
room couch, surrounded by friends, with the barbeque grill working
overtime on the patio. Make sure you get the right channels for the
games you want to watch, double-check the times, arrange for enough
seating for everyone, and divide up the grocery list among everyone
who’s coming.
If you are close enough to a sports arena to attend the
college game in person and you’ve already scored some tickets, make
sure to arrive early enough to find a good parking spot or consider
taking public transportation.
Here’s a list in USA Today on January 18, 2008, from author
and sports commentator John Feinstein, about the best places to
watch college games:
10. Cassell Coliseum (Virginia Tech)
9. O’Connell Center (University of Florida)
8. Mackey Arena (Purdue University)
7. Hart Recreation Center (Holy Cross)
6. University Arena (University of New Mexico)
5. Rose Hill Gym (Fordham University)
4. Pauley Pavilion (UCLA)
3. Allen Fieldhouse (University of Kansas)
2. Cameron Indoor Stadium (Duke University)
1. The Palestra (University of Pennsylvania)
What are your top picks for places to watch a college
game?
The Palestra