AJC > Sports > Blog > Archives > 2007 > August > 25 > Entry
DEL.ICIO.USThe five best places for tailgating
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Let’s take a short break from the X’s and O’s. A week from today a lot of you are going to be taking part in one of the most glorious traditions that the Good Lord ever put on this Earth: tailgating. I don’t get to do a lot of it on Saturdays in the fall because I’m working. But when I do, here are my top five places to tailgate in the South:
1. Ole Miss: There is nothing quite like a Saturday afternoon at the Grove, where you will see everything from pickup trucks to silver candelabras on white linen table cloths. The last time I tailgated at Ole Miss was 2003 for Eli Manning’s last game against LSU. They estimated that over 10,000 people who didn’t have tickets stayed in the Grove and just had a big party while the game was going on.
2. LSU: There is no smell quite the combination of jambalaya and bourbon as it drifts through the parking lots around Tiger Stadium. There is no group of people who can put on their “game face” quite as well as the folks in the Bayou. Man, are they going to have some great parties this season!
3. Clemson: You see everything from fried chicken to a low country boil in that parking lot in front of the West end zone. I have never walked through that lot without a total stranger pulling me over and trying to feed me. I miss my good friend, Mr. Bob Bradley, who always welcomed us with Clemson’s legendary butterscotch brownies.
4. Georgia: In the interest of full disclosure, I have to confess that this is my alma mater and I started tailgating in Athens when I was just 12 years old. But even UGA’s rivals have to admit that it’s a good place to spend a college football Saturday.
5. North Carolina: With the Carolina pines that surround Kenan Stadium, it’s one of the most beautiful places in all of college football. There is a lot of football tradition in Chapel Hill, which is why the Tar Heels can’t wait until Butch Davis gets it going.
Comments
By Phat Phil
August 25, 2007 8:05 AM | Link to this
You have obviously never been to a Tennessee tailgate party. Try to make one in Knoxville for the UT - GA game. Then go watch the Big Orange lay a “dog-whoopin” on the lowly UGA Mutts!
By David
August 25, 2007 8:16 AM | Link to this
Two pieces of heaven on Earth- Athens, GA on gameday and Augusta National anytime.
By Roswell Ed
August 25, 2007 8:19 AM | Link to this
Tony, is this all you have today?
You could have listed Ole Miss at #1 and then listed everybody else at 2a 2b 2c and so on.
Is there such thing as a bad place to tailgate?
Grill + beer + football + coeds= a great time time where ever you are.
Thanks Tony for wasting 5 minutes of my day.
By CF KING
August 25, 2007 8:20 AM | Link to this
I’ve tailgated at tennessee. Nothing special compared to other schools I’ve been to. The tailgating I saw before a packers game was better and a NFL team should never beat a SEC tailgating. Tennessee is always overhyped fans that do not know how to party.
By William Cranman
August 25, 2007 9:04 AM | Link to this
Amen David. I couldn’t agree more.
By Dawggy Style
August 25, 2007 9:21 AM | Link to this
Phat Phil (a/k/a Creamsicle) - Be careful what you wish for! The last three UGA parties on the UT campus have been a lot of fun for the Dawgs! I’ll stop by your tailgating party in October and check it out, but only if you promise to bring some bean dip with the chips this time.
By JerryLovedLSU
August 25, 2007 9:34 AM | Link to this
The Grove? Huh?
40,000 people packed into an area the size of a basketball court eating KFC off of china all the while having a pretty good idea that their team is about to get crushed?
Color me impressed.
By joe
August 25, 2007 10:04 AM | Link to this
Athens does have great tailgating, if you can find a damn parking spot. Best ones I’ve been to were Ole Miss and LSU. Disclaimer to that is, if you have access to a boat on the TN river, then water tailgating 50 yards from Neyland can’t be beat.
By Chomp
August 25, 2007 10:13 AM | Link to this
By Rico
August 25, 2007 11:08 AM | Link to this
Ole Miss. #1 lmao!!!!!! And you are “Mr.College Football”? Ole Miss? Ole Miss is not one of 5 best places to tailgate in Mississippi alone the country. Man your credibility is gone, have you ever been to a college game north of the Mason Dixon line? Ole Miss????
By TxArTiger
August 25, 2007 11:33 AM | Link to this
If you think Ole Miss is #1, you really HAVEN’T done much tailgating!
By Daniel Britt
August 25, 2007 11:34 AM | Link to this
Baton Rouge is the worst of the worst when it comes to tailgating. Standing around a bunch of dumb obnoxius drunks who can’t even speak Engish well is not my idea of great tailgating. Not to mention that if the yellow and purple are losing, they all start to boo the home team and leave at halftime.
By John
August 25, 2007 11:39 AM | Link to this
I love the list. I have been to many tailgates and no question the Grove at Ole Miss topped them all.
By Austin
August 25, 2007 11:46 AM | Link to this
All of yall who diss the Ole Miss tailgating experience have obviously never been. Ole Miss is ranked #1 by virtually everyone for a reason…We throw a better party, and we suck at football most years. You can’t deny The Grove. So all you haters can continue to hate…It won’t change anything.
By Austin
August 25, 2007 11:46 AM | Link to this
All of yall who diss the Ole Miss tailgating experience have obviously never been. Ole Miss is ranked #1 by virtually everyone for a reason…We throw a better party, and we suck at football most years. You can’t deny The Grove. So all you haters can continue to hate…It won’t change anything.
By Chris
August 25, 2007 11:58 AM | Link to this
I am an Oklahoma State fan who will be attending my first UGA game. What/where are the best places to go before the game? I am pumped about tailgatin’ in Athens!
By REFT
August 25, 2007 12:16 PM | Link to this
When did Ole Miss get a football program?
By jon
August 25, 2007 12:37 PM | Link to this
How could a dry campus be number one for tailgating?
By Steve
August 25, 2007 12:48 PM | Link to this
It’s fitting that Ole Miss tops this list. For a fanbase that has never been to Atlanta, it’s nice to see some AJC lovin’. And on another note, Boy George has more fun at a hetero convention than you will have in Tuscaloosa on a Saturday afternoon. Trying to help Alabama fans find their missing tooth isn’t my favorite gameday environment.
By phil
August 25, 2007 12:52 PM | Link to this
North Carolina?!?! this list is a joke….
By Ben
August 25, 2007 12:55 PM | Link to this
Clemson does have the best tailgating atmosphere and surroundings. Beautiful trees, Lake Hartwell, and a view of the mountains. Don’t know about Ole Miss, but Georgia - too much concrete - and Auburn - kinda like Clemson - but no lake.
By SOS
August 25, 2007 1:03 PM | Link to this
I have to agree with phil…NORTH CAROLINA??????????? Barnhardt, please tell us you have something to disclose on that selection too…Geesh!!!
By War Eagle
August 25, 2007 1:07 PM | Link to this
LSU is the worst, I had a 7-8 year old finger me because I had a Auburn cap on….VERY RUDE PEOPLE…I agree with ole Miss, simlar to Athens, but smaller and more compact, beautiful campus.
By Mitch
August 25, 2007 1:28 PM | Link to this
CLEMSON Hands Down !!! A beautiful campus, 80,000 plus all wearing orange and cheering on the Tigers win or lose, you have to experience it to appreciate it !!!
By Tiger
August 25, 2007 1:29 PM | Link to this
War Eagle- I am sure you deserved it
By Self-Annointed Supreme Ruler of the Grove
August 25, 2007 1:37 PM | Link to this
Rico, I would like to extend an invitation for you to visit the Grove since you have obviously never been to Oxford, Mississippi. There are plenty of good home games this year from which to choose.
There are plenty of great tailgating traditions across the country and, in particular, the South. So, I am certainly not saying Ole Miss should be considered #1 on everyone’s list. (Different strokes for different folks as they say.) But, for you to scoff at the very mention of Ole Miss on this list tells the rest of us all we need to know regarding your apparently limited knowledge of college football and all the tradition, pageantry and history surrounding it.
By doug
August 25, 2007 1:40 PM | Link to this
Thought the list had credibility until #5…haven’t seen the stadium full in years…and when it is, it’s empty by half time.
By DHenton
August 25, 2007 1:46 PM | Link to this
The GROVE, one of the “Got to see to believe!” places! Doesn’t make sense does it, but just go and you will see! I’ve seen opposing fans just walking around w/ their mouth wide open going holy sh#&, I’ve never seen SO many people in once place and so many HOT women decked out! SHORT SHORT SKirts!! Go to youtube and type in the Grove! Although this year, football team may actually do something!
By reality check
August 25, 2007 2:33 PM | Link to this
Georgia fan here to agree with Tony tailgating in The Grove is several cuts above any other I’ve expeienced
By Spanky
August 25, 2007 2:55 PM | Link to this
Tony,…Great topic! I also would like to offer up an Honorable mention to the gracious hosts in Lexington, KY. Yeah, I’m a true “Silver-Britches” Dawg fan, but when you go to Lexington, EVERY FAN is welcomed by tailgaters in blue…just giving respect to these folks! They are very gracious, classy, and very talented grillers!!
By Dante21
August 25, 2007 3:04 PM | Link to this
Sanford and Son Stadium(and surrounding area)?? R U Kidden’ Me! That place needs 3 promotions just to be a dump.
Just like a mutt to be listing a top five without ever getting out of the south.
By Doug1
August 25, 2007 3:21 PM | Link to this
I was at the Ole Miss-LSU game he referred to and I remember saying that these people didn’t know how to tailgate. Baton Rouge has them beat by far. But everyone is entitled to their opinion.
By Francesco Sinibaldi
August 25, 2007 3:29 PM | Link to this
From morning till night.
At dusk, when your memory takes care of a beautiful past, a seraphic idea returns, cordially, at the end of a luminous comet; and here, without delay, an identical future describes in a candle a slender delight.
Francesco Sinibaldi
By Ashley
August 25, 2007 3:51 PM | Link to this
I haven’t been to the Grove nor LSU yet. We have a home and home w/ Ole Miss in ‘13 or ‘14 so I’ll be there soon. Regarding Clemson….tough place to beat when it comes to tailgating. I just wish our football team was as good as our tailgating!
By Hardcoretiger
August 25, 2007 5:08 PM | Link to this
Ole Mrs. #1 and classy, you have got to be kidding. My grandson learned the finger at three in 2003 from the fine classy fans there. I remember in 95 and 97 even the Hardees sold buckets of fried chicken for the game. What a combination, fried chicken in a bucket, Fiddle Faddle and fine linen. To each their own.
By GatorDaddy
August 25, 2007 5:38 PM | Link to this
LSU, greatest place to tailgate (from Florida fan). Obnoxious drunks and the smell of bourbon is what you’re SUPPOSED to see tailgating. DON’T for get “the Swamp” and for GOD’S sake, N. Carolina???? Florida’s now got more tradition than them in 2 sports! The tailgating is always better when you have won THREE national titles in a row…….anyone else out ther match that??
By ME
August 25, 2007 5:58 PM | Link to this
Tony, To party or not to party before and after a game. Gone are the days of grand ole tailgating. In days gone by at college games I remember the ladies making spreads like Sunday Lunch/Dinner after Church. The men and ladies enjoyed their cocktails while the spread was being displayed for consumption. Today, and I have been to almost all stadiums in the ACC and SEC and several others in the country, you will find mostly a lot of drunks and store bought food. Georgia has more liquor bottles in the trash cans than most large liquor stores have on the shelves. Clemson has only grocery store bought chicken and hidden booze (church goers hiding from the church goers) and Tennessee has plenty of booze but good packaged snacking foods. My favorite is Notre Dame and eating steak sandwiches cooked on grills outside the faternity houses.
By ROLLTIDE
August 25, 2007 7:40 PM | Link to this
The Quad. Hands down the best
By ClemsonDude
August 25, 2007 8:35 PM | Link to this
Clemson and Death Valley does have some of the best tailgating in the country. Clemson fans ranks in the top 5 in spirit and great hospitality toward visitors even to Gamecocks, Bulldogs, and Seminoles!
By gwj
August 25, 2007 9:15 PM | Link to this
As a Georgia fan who has been to every stadium in the SEC….Ole Miss is best for many reasons. LSU is a big time experience as well. Yes, LSU fans are the rudest (UF a close second). Miss. State is my least favorite.
By Joe
August 25, 2007 10:25 PM | Link to this
I have been to many stadiums, and I do think that Clemson has the best tailgating. It has a beautiful campus, and it has a great environment. Their fans were so nice to us when we played them a few years ago. Many Clemson fans bought us our beers at the Esso Club, and we were invited to hundreds of tailgates while we were walking. I will always pull for Clemson when my team doesn’t play them because of the way we were treated.
By CLTDawg
August 25, 2007 10:32 PM | Link to this
Having been to all SEC stadiums and most of the ACC (none north of VA & no Miami), as well as tOSU and a few other big time programs, I can say without question that this list is pretty accurate.
The Grove, even 20 years ago when I was an undergrad, was a sight to behold. I thought UGA had the best lookin’ girls until I took that trip. LSU - Big time atmosphere, but poorly behaved. All of our car magnets were stolen and the window flags were burned off the posts - which were still attached to our windows. Clemson - Okay, but our group would choose Alabama, Tennessee or Auburn over that locale.
UNC is very scenic, with some hot girls - for an ACC school. But the tailgating left a little to be desired. tOSU - too dang cold when we went. Who wants to tailgate in 20 degree weather with all the girls(?) wrapped up in parkas. Maybe it’s better earlier in the year. Good food though.
Oddly enough USCar is a pretty fun tailgate, even though it is in the middle of the fairgrounds. And last but not least - they don’t call it “The World’s Largest Outdoor Cocktail Party” for no reason.
By Biznob
August 25, 2007 10:41 PM | Link to this
hahahaha thats awesome. you actually list ole miss first, and think that in doing so you will still have enough respect that people will read 2-5. WOW. AJC at its best. is this a college newspaper???
By Scott
August 25, 2007 11:27 PM | Link to this
OLE MISS??!?
Man, what did they pay you to rank them in the #1 (much less in the top 5)?
Althought the Grove is a nice area in the middle of campus, the majority of the people their don’t care about or go to the actual football game. If you are ranking outdoor cocktail functions, Ole Miss would rank up there, but for Tailgating it is no where near the others in your top 5.
My Top 5 (not counting UGA)
-LSU -Tennessee -Alabama -Florida -South Carolina
By DoggieStyle
August 26, 2007 5:33 AM | Link to this
Let’s take the partisan emotion out of it; all COLLEGE tailgating in the south is awesome! I’m a UGA guy, and I love all the venues. While LSU fans are great supporters of their team, they are indeed incredibly rude after drinking all day in that heat on the bayou. The scariest place I’ve visited is Morgantown, WV.
By duff
August 26, 2007 6:44 AM | Link to this
Uhh, hello!? How about Jax for the Georgia-Florida game? As they say, guess you can’t rank pros with amateurs. Even at one game a year, it blows away the competition. And yes, UT fans, we have boats…but ours don’t have pontoons.
By Eric
August 26, 2007 7:09 AM | Link to this
Who would’ve thought “Mr. Football” has never been to Auburn. Maybe he’s actually “Mr. sort of, kind of, something like football”. WAR EAGLE!
By Ray
August 26, 2007 7:40 AM | Link to this
North Carolina has to come off the list because there is no where left to tailgate on campus.
The school does not allow parking or tailgating in any of the common areas. You are looking at tailgating in an off campus parking lot. It needs to be on the list of “Previously a nice place to tailgate.”
By BamaBoyz
August 26, 2007 9:03 AM | Link to this
any tailgating that has to take place in a parking lot should be removed from the list.
The Quad, under the oaks,surrounded by the old buildings, listening to the Denny Chimes and Sweet Home Alabama ROLL TIDE ROLL is the best atmosphere for tailgating.
By TravelingMan
August 26, 2007 9:27 AM | Link to this
I guess this list is for southern teams only but i am adding a few from up north.
Notre Dame, hands down is the best place to tailgate. The history and beauty of that campus gives a football fan chills. Before every game the team, dressed ins suits and ties, walks from the Basilica to the stadium. Fans line the entire walk clapping and cheering. Along with the football rock songs you hear bagpipes and irish fiddles. and everyone is smiling.Touchdown Jesus is the final touch. it does get cold later in the season but that is no different than sweating in 90+ heat down here in the early games.
Michigan v Ohio State is an awesome tailgate and it doesn’t depend on which school it is at. That rivalry runs deep especially the last few years.
I have been to Morgantown and that is one scary bunch and i would not recommmend tailgating there. However, no one touches the Mountaineers when it comes to being passionate about their team. I guess the WVU football is one of th few things that state has to be proud of. The stadium is awesome and hearing the crowd sing Country Roads led by the football team after a victory while overlooking the mountains is goosebump time.
By Chad
August 26, 2007 10:05 AM | Link to this
I’ve been to MANY venues, and when it comes to tailgating I would definitely put Clemson at the top. Beautiful campus, orange everywhere, tents and grills as far as you can see, friendly people, and great food. My next choices (from where I’ve been) would be LSU, Tennessee, Georgia, FSU, and Auburn.
By David-ATL14
August 26, 2007 11:13 AM | Link to this
Pretty well agree with your list Tony.
I’m a UT season ticket holder and us not being on the list is indeed accurate.
Someone mentioned it earlier in the blog, but If you can do your tailgating via the “Vol Navy” then it’s on eof the best places in College Football, if “grounded” though, nothing special.
By fan
August 26, 2007 11:57 AM | Link to this
I would vote for Clemson, Alabama, LSU. I would definitely not include UGA. Big ole parking lot, lots of dawgs barking does not make a great tailgate.
By toby young
August 26, 2007 12:45 PM | Link to this
The baby blue of UNC makes the top five?I gusse you never had to find a parking spot as the visiting fans do when going to SNOB HILL.Last carolina fan i saw was poping the flags off peoples cars and stealing there decals.If eating chessz wiz and drinking merlo from a box is tailgating send me to Death Vally.
By Daniel Britt
August 26, 2007 1:05 PM | Link to this
Doug 1
Tailgating has evolved from the back pickup bed of a truck like they do in Baton Rouge. Oxford does it with class brother and not to mention the best looking girls on earth.
By JCresman
August 26, 2007 2:02 PM | Link to this
There’s a reason “The Grove” is now incorporated!
No place on earth like it. Worth of trip for any opposing fan and any brave Northerners who want to see PURE Southern Hospitality mixed in with traditional college football atmosphere. Team not so good but women are HOT!! Bet they miss Eli! PS. Last time I was there, met Eli and Shep Smith from Fox News. He hands out in the Grove.
By Stone Mountain Vol
August 26, 2007 2:09 PM | Link to this
Dawggy Style, I hope you are attracted to Blue Tick Coon Hounds ‘cause Smokey will need a date for the postgame party this year. He sincerely missed you last season at Erik Ainge Field at Neyland South, a few may recognize that as Sanford Stadium. Are you cheating on him? Half ‘a Hundred, does that ring a bell? Hope to see you in Knoxville, and dont forget to bring that UGly little lap dog with you, Smokey needs a new chew toy!
By DaddyDawg
August 27, 2007 1:48 AM | Link to this
I’ve seen the Dawgs play at every venue in the SEC (including the one year in Gainesville when the old Gator Bowl was being renovated/rebuilt as Alltel Stadium), as well as a few places outside the SEC (Clemson, Tech, etc.), and without question, the Grove in Mississippi is the best place to tailgate! The thing that puts the Grove in a class of its own is the fact that the people of Ole Miss, almost without exception, are the friendliest fans you will find anywhere to opposing teams. With a great campus setting, unbelievable food and the most beautiful women you will ever see, the Grove is one of those sports experiences of a lifetime. It’s easily my favorite road trip in the SEC.
By R
August 28, 2007 2:23 PM | Link to this
Ha ha ha ha ha ha…catch breathe…ha ha ha ha ha!! UNC is top five place to tailgate?!?!? Obviously this toolbag is a Tar Hell fan or drinking the Butch Davis Kool Aid. UNC has no football tradition and the liberal, whiny tree huggers that make up the alumni and students of that institution don’t know the first thing about tapping a keg and firing up a grill. Please tell me that this is a joke. WTF???
By hokie nation
August 28, 2007 2:55 PM | Link to this
NORTH CAROLINA??? WOW - have you only been to five tailgates in your life? Did you mean North Carolina State. I’ve been to both: Had a great time at NC State…Didn’t even know people were tailgating at UNC. With all that said, the Hokies will show on Saturday why they belong in the top 5.
By Mike
August 28, 2007 2:56 PM | Link to this
I enjoyed the list. It did say it was the top five schools IN THE SOUTH, so all of the Michigan and OSU fans should keep your seats until the next list. You have your one or two games in the fall, before the clouds come out and you never see the sun again until next May. But I think our writer has it right. UNC has one of the best traditions of fan support, anytime, anywhere, and we can wear shorts in December. And yes, even for football. For a school who DOMINATES every sport it’s about time it gets recognition for football. The school works hard to promote an atmosphere for all ages, and you see everything from the beer swilling drunks to the famous wine and cheese crowd. And everyone, welcomes everyone else, as long as they’re wearing CAROLINA BLUE. Y’all stop by.
By Mike
August 28, 2007 2:57 PM | Link to this
I enjoyed the list. It did say it was the top five schools IN THE SOUTH, so all of the Michigan and OSU fans should keep your seats until the next list. You have your one or two games in the fall, before the clouds come out and you never see the sun again until next May. But I think our writer has it right. UNC has one of the best traditions of fan support, anytime, anywhere, and we can wear shorts in December. And yes, even for football. For a school who DOMINATES every sport it’s about time it gets recognition for football. The school works hard to promote an atmosphere for all ages, and you see everything from the beer swilling drunks to the famous wine and cheese crowd. And everyone, welcomes everyone else, as long as they’re wearing CAROLINA BLUE. Y’all stop by.
By Ray
August 28, 2007 4:05 PM | Link to this
The Grove, the best. I’ve travelled up from Florida the last couple years for a game on campus. All the superlatives work when describing The Grove experience.
By Philllllll
August 28, 2007 4:08 PM | Link to this
NORTH CAROLINA???????? are you kidding me? unfortunately i’ve been to a game there and i guess if you think heating up hotdogs in the campus PARKING DECK lands you in the top 5 then you really need to head 30 min. east on I40 to Raleigh and let NC STATE show you just how tailgating is done…
By C
August 28, 2007 4:17 PM | Link to this
UNC??? It is incredible that a school where no “tailgating” exists would make this list. Maybe a list of most scenic stadiums or least enthusiastic fanbase, but tailgating? NC State or ECU have much better tailgating in NC alone. No way UNC should be on this list, period!
By cf
August 28, 2007 4:29 PM | Link to this
It’s obvious that many people cannot see past the SEC…
… but unc@ch? Are you kidding me? They might be the worst tailgating experience in the ACC. Unless you like tailgating in a parking deck, a mile away from the stadium.
By Cotten
August 28, 2007 4:30 PM | Link to this
UNC? Was that a typo? There is nothing nice about tailgating in a hospital parking deck that happens to be on the UNC campus.
By N
August 28, 2007 4:34 PM | Link to this
I work at UNC. UNC is one of the worst possible places to tailgate. It is absurd you have it listed on the top 5.
By Roger Evans
August 28, 2007 4:34 PM | Link to this
Kenan is beautiful, but tailgating is non-existant. There is no place to tailgate. You should retitle ‘5 prettiest places to be on football Saturday’. Wait a minute, you included Clemson. Not pretty. I guess the only conclusion I can draw is that you don’t have any idea what you are talking about.
By Steve
August 28, 2007 4:37 PM | Link to this
Mr. College Football? Are you kidding me? Where is this UNC tailgating you speak of? In fact, I believe it is non-existant. Maybe other team’s fans that make the commute to Chapel Hill get together and have some tailgating fun, why wouldn’t they… if I could get a 10 dollar football ticket to see my team play an away game, I would use the extra money on burgers, beer, and barbeque. This notion of UNC as a ‘best place for tailgating’ is insane. I ask you, Mr. College Football(ha), how many other people were tailgating with you at UNC, if you even tailgated there.
By Danno
August 28, 2007 4:46 PM | Link to this
This is a joke right…..unc is on the list and ole miss is number one…..wtf…please pass that stuff you’re smoking on to the rest of us….unc, ole miss…hahahah…unc…hahahahahahahahahaahahahahha
By dp
August 28, 2007 4:53 PM | Link to this
Carolina should not be on the list. period. I went there and still think it’s ridiculous to have us anywhere near the top.
That being said, some jokers on here are suggesting that NC State should be recognized. Tell your tailgaters to stop shooting each other and perhaps you’ll get some consideration. Getting shot at is not high on my priority list for a football Saturday.
By dan
August 28, 2007 5:05 PM | Link to this
Wolfpecker fans- The reason you guys are not recognized for your tailgating, is because there is a decent chance you might get killed while in that parking lot of yours. Try being nice and civilized, rather than barbaric. I tailgated with Tar Heels fans when the ‘Noles came into play, and the people couldn’t have been friendly. And just because you tailgate in a big open dirt pile with big trucks to compensate for the size of your dongs, that doesn’t necessarily mean you are good at tailgating. It’s a glorified redneck bbq.
By Mike
August 28, 2007 5:09 PM | Link to this
Stay classy, Tarhole!
By TL
August 28, 2007 5:09 PM | Link to this
Jokes about campus shootings, way to represent your university.
By Mike
August 28, 2007 5:13 PM | Link to this
Their university?
I’m sure they just bought a shirt at Wal-Mart like 99% of all UNC fans. $50 says he couldn’t point to it on a map
By BiBo
August 28, 2007 5:18 PM | Link to this
I’ll grant you that Kenan stadium is beautiful from the INSIDE, but it’s really not a good place to tailgate. Too much congestion, buildings, hospital traffic, etc. NC State’s open field setup is much better. And give it a rest dp, that could have happened anywhere.
By TL
August 28, 2007 5:19 PM | Link to this
He said he went there; I took him at his word. That’s a foolish thing to do with a tarhole, I know. I guess I’m just soft like that.
By austin
August 28, 2007 5:24 PM | Link to this
How can you claim to have ever been on ANY college campus and left out Gainesville FL on game day? Obviously, the gang at ESPN know what they are doing, since they have been on the UF campus for Gameday more than any other campus in the country!! Go Gators.
By john
August 28, 2007 5:40 PM | Link to this
Carolina. Are you kidding me. I am from north carolina and have been to enough football games in enough stadiums to know that carolina and its tailgating is the weakest of all the north carolina schools. Take a look at NC State way before you look at Carolina.
By Eric
August 28, 2007 5:56 PM | Link to this
Wow…UNC? Nice campus and beautiful stadium but there’s nowhere to tailgate? Obviously, Mr. Barnhart hasn’t been there in many years.
BTW, Mike, UNC has one of the best schools for fan support? Huh? You can’t sell out a small stadium and the rare times you do, the ‘fans’ leave in the 3rd quarter. Stick to bball.
Go Noles!(I did not rank FSU due to my bias).
By Kenny
August 28, 2007 7:09 PM | Link to this
You people just can’t stand the fact that Carolina has started stealing your football recruits and now just a little bit of your stale old limelight. Get used to it because the sleeping giant is about to awake. Football is about to return to Chapel Hill along with great tailgating and a great tradition. Remember that when the Heels are kicking your butts in every other sport!
By kel
August 28, 2007 7:34 PM | Link to this
Im a huge Carolina fan, but their tailgating isn’t that great. They’re a basketball school, everyone knows that. Come down to ECU, where tailgating is a SPORT. Everyone prepares for gameday MONTHS in advance. The hotels are sold out. Season tickets are SOLD out. Tents, activities, purple, gold, barbeque and bojangle’s are at every turn many hours before the game. The spirit of the east is absolutely contagious, even the day before, now matter how good the team is that year.
By Chris Alford
August 28, 2007 7:54 PM | Link to this
UNC-Chapel Hill? You’ve got to be kidding; their tailgating ranks 4th in the state behind NCSU, ECU and Wake Forest. Actually if anyone went to Duke games they’d be 5th! Dave letterman and his staff would have to be sequestered for 2 weeks to come up with a joke that good. They just did a year long study on improving tailgating, empty seats, getting their fans to be rowdy and boisterous and improving game day atmosphere; the story was on the local CBS station and had interviews with the AD Baddour and football player Joe Daley. They’re not even great basketball fans and they love their basketball more than anything; it’s just not in their nature. Their fans have been complaining for years about the tailgating and lack of places for large groups to tailgate. Give me a break!
By The Rock
August 28, 2007 8:03 PM | Link to this
“5. North Carolina: With the Carolina pines that surround Kenan Stadium, it’s one of the most beautiful places in all of college football. There is a lot of football tradition in Chapel Hill”
You lost every bit of credibility you may have ever had regarding college football with this comment. There is no place to tailgate around this stadium and they haven’t won even an ACC championship in almost 30 years. That statement is just bizzare. They are not even in the top 5 in the ACC, mutch less the country. Did BMFD pay you to put that into print? If you are looking for a pregame and in game atmosphere, come see us in Raleigh.
By Coach
August 28, 2007 8:04 PM | Link to this
I am a diehard Tar Heel. When I saw a link on the Tar Heel website that read Top 5 Tailgating, my reaction was, “What? Is that a joke?” We’re actually the laughingstock of college football and tailgating. You have no idea what the Hell you are talking about. You’re right; Chapel Hill and Kenan are beautiful and definitely one of the Top 5 campuses/college towns, but not by any stretch of the imagination a good place to tailgate.
By Stephen
August 28, 2007 8:34 PM | Link to this
You have GOT to be kidding me? UNC? they don’t even tailgate…hell there is no where to tailgate. I wouldn’t even put them on the top 5 of places I have been to for games. Let’s see.
By Garland
August 28, 2007 8:42 PM | Link to this
I also went to Carolina and can say that this list is bogus. Carolina does have some tailgating around Kenan and some in front of the frats. But by no means anything constituting being on a top “anything” list. Actually, there is a big party scene before the games. It just happens to be inside at the many bars along Franklin St.
By Todd
August 28, 2007 10:05 PM | Link to this
I go to Carolina. Let’s just say the closest we’ll come to tailgating on Saturday is drinking PBR and firing up the George Foreman in my apartment. What a bizarre choice.
Unless you are trying to sabotage our hopes of getting administration to find us space for a legitimate tailgate scene by the time our team is competitive, I have no idea what you could POSSIBLY be talking about.
By James
August 28, 2007 10:16 PM | Link to this
Jesus, will all these hick state fans stop complaining? When was the last time you beat Carolina (and by Carolina, I mean North Carolina, the only Carolina)in football? and who wants to tailgate at MooU in the first place? Carolina may not be the best place to tailgate, but at least it has some class…..
By app st grad
August 28, 2007 10:50 PM | Link to this
i actually like the scattered gatherings of tailgaters at unc. many commenting here don’t have a clue because you don’t get to experience it working the potatoe chip truck on game day.
By Koren "da drunk" Robinson
August 28, 2007 11:31 PM | Link to this
In regards to NC State tailgating, I believe the following public service announcement is more than appropriate…
[http://i82.photobucket.com/albums/j280/tarheelz022/ncsuwm4.gif?t=1188357993]
By Bryan
August 28, 2007 11:57 PM | Link to this
App st grad, LOL ‘
You crack me up Man! Remember that Colleges are based on Educational Reputations.
As a UNC grad you make me laugh. UNC is one of if not the most successful Academic & Athletic Universities in the world. If you combine both aspects, I would say number 1 easily.
With all due respect, I agree our tailgaiting is subpar as of now, but we are hopefully getting better.
The entire program/campus/academics as a whole is hardly worth laughing at. Afterall, compare it to App St. or NC State
It is not UNC’s problem that people of all classes and job positions are fans.
We are the #1 team in Team sales for the last 10-20 years against all of the US colleges, right? Must be doing something right, while remaining one of the Top Academic Universities anywhere!
It is understandable to be jealous, but do not disrepect. It is easy to disagree with a ranking of tailgating sites, but do not try to discredit the greatest University based on all-round aspects to get a laugh off.
I am a realist not a Dreamer. As of now, we are not a top-5 team in Tailgating but we are certainly a Top-5 all-around University.
Also, I am certainly A UNC football fan, as everyone that I went to school with. They are my favorite team period. Do not just assume UNC fans do not pull for UNC football. I have no other College FB team that I am a fan of.
I am not going to put us up there with the best, but we are certainly even with NCSU and App St, with potential to reach the top. You have to be kidding yourselve if you think otherwise. Look at the past history if you are confused.
Just wait and See!
Go Heels! Bryan
By Bryan
August 29, 2007 12:18 AM | Link to this
Sorry, I mean you must be kidding yourself if you think that. Not a journalism major, but the Vodka (not wine) may have contributed to that.
I certainly know how to tap a keg and open a Liquor bottle. If you would like to sit down and have a drink I would gladly enjoy and teach you a thing or two about drinking and partying!
GO Heels! Bryan
By ECUDIAMOND
August 29, 2007 4:24 AM | Link to this
UNC Tailgating?? You can’t be serious. Going to a football game at UNC is like entering a library. No one cheers, they don’t expect their team to win (ever) and the tailgating is sub-par to say the least. The good looking girls are outnumbered by the liberal f* that swarm the school. Come on over to Greenville, we’ll show you how it is done, not to mention the girl to guy ratio is 3:1.
By mike
August 29, 2007 8:32 AM | Link to this
‘It is understandable to be jealous, but do not disrepect. It is easy to disagree with a ranking of tailgating sites, but do not try to discredit the greatest University based on all-round aspects to get a laugh off.’
…..and this is why everyone hates UNC ‘fans’
By Keith
August 29, 2007 8:49 AM | Link to this
Moo-U sucks!!!! They are so jealous of the NC Flagship University. The football experience is great at UNC, and when we are playing the rednecks from NC state its even better. Because we pound their heads in every year!!! Go Heels!!!!!
By TL
August 29, 2007 9:01 AM | Link to this
Have a happy 13th birthday Keith.
By Joey
August 29, 2007 9:13 AM | Link to this
UNC fans bringing up the tailgate shooting at NC State…Short memories. I guess you guys have forgotten the crazy guy walking down Franklin shooting up your students. How about the radical muslim running down students in your quad area? Hypocrites.
But that’s OK, I understand 99% of you have never been to Chapel Hill. Your just as much of a fan for spending most of your hourly based paycheck working at the mill on cable to watch them. And heck, if they’re down, you’ll pull for Duke. Half of you pull for the Heels in basketball and Notre Dame in football anyways.
As far as tailgating, UNC should be 3rd…in NC. State and ECU both have better tailgating scenes. The only great thing about UNC is that State fans can easily get tickets to our games there. It got so bad a couple of years ago that the panoramic sold in stores had to be photoshopped to get all the red out. You guys are a joke.
By Justin
August 29, 2007 9:31 AM | Link to this
UNC???????
It’s definitely one of the most beautiful stadiums in the country, but for tailgating… You’re way off buddy. I am in Chapel Hill and I know 1st hand that our tailgating ranks at the bottom of the acc. It is pretty much non-existent. It is my only real complaint about athletics here. App State has the best tailgating in the state of NC.
By Justin in Chapel Hill
August 29, 2007 9:33 AM | Link to this
UNC???????
It’s definitely one of the most beautiful stadiums in the country, but for tailgating… You’re way off buddy. I am in Chapel Hill and I know 1st hand that our tailgating ranks at the bottom of the acc. It is pretty much non-existent. It is my only real complaint about athletics here. App State has the best tailgating in the state of NC.
By Josh
August 29, 2007 9:36 AM | Link to this
By putting UNC on this list your credibility has just gone out the window. I am a die-hard ACC fan but there is no denying that when it comes tailgating in the fall the SEC takes the cake. That said, there are some great football atmospheres in the ACC but you just listed the worst of the bunch…..excluding Duke of course.
By Fred
August 29, 2007 9:38 AM | Link to this
UNC 23
NC State 9
enough said.
By William
August 29, 2007 9:51 AM | Link to this
Oh good lord!, listen to all these ridiculous redneck State fans. I’ll admit, that it’s a great site around tailgating at State, but you can’t beat the campus atmosphere at Carolina, sorry. ECU??? uh no, that’s worse than wulfy rednecks, guh!!
By Justin Ergler
August 29, 2007 9:55 AM | Link to this
UNC?!?! UNC?!?! I graduated from UNC in 2005. I have some news for you “Mr. Football”: NOBODY TAILGATES AT UNC!!!! WE DON’T CARE ABOUT FOOTBALL!!!! WE ARE A BASKETBALL SCHOOL!!! Thank you.
By William
August 29, 2007 10:12 AM | Link to this
Ok, now Justin…I have to differ with you dude. I am the son of a former UNC football player, and what you’re saying is blasphamus. How dare you say we’re not a football school, yes, I live, eat & sleep Tarheel basketball, but it’s football season son!! Get with the program, and yes we do tailgate, ever seen our stadium??
By Eric
August 29, 2007 10:32 AM | Link to this
Florida and NC State suck cow ducks Go Heels…Wait I forgot…Duke
By Jeraill McCuller
August 29, 2007 10:39 AM | Link to this
Remember kids…guns don’t kill people, tailgating NC State fans do.
By Joey
August 29, 2007 10:42 AM | Link to this
“Get with the program, and yes we do tailgate, ever seen our stadium??” - UNC Fan
I’ve seen your stadium. Its blinding on gameday from the sun’s reflection off all the aluminum. Your blue/white basketball game draws better than a lot of your football games. You sold $10 tickets to your opener b/c you couldn’t get people to pay full price. You have Chuch Youth Group days like Duke does to draw fans. Your fan support in football is pathetic at best.
By Eric
August 29, 2007 10:53 AM | Link to this
Well Joey my friend when you win 3 games a year thats what happens. But when Mack Brown was here we sold out and were about to expand to 80,000 seats. You can go to Raleigh and watch a game if you want….Just wear a bullet proof vest…
By Joey
August 29, 2007 10:54 AM | Link to this
“Remember kids…guns don’t kill people, tailgating NC State fans do.”
Don’t forget UNC law students…
http://www.wral.com/news/local/story/128924/
Or former terrorist UNC graduates who try to mow down students in their SUV.
http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=5250120
Try not to throw rocks out of a glass house.
By Bryan
August 29, 2007 10:57 AM | Link to this
Mike-
I think you are mistaken buddy. If everyone Hates UNC then why is the number one in sold merchandise every year. Everyone hates duke except those who go there.
I think it is just ‘certain’ other schools that hate UNC. The ones that we constantly beat.
This is the same people that are criticizing people for not going to UNC but still being a fan of the University. It’s a hard school not to like as far as tradition/academics/athletics go.
I am not being arrogant. My brother is a NC State Grad, and my sister and Brother in law are both ECU grads. Heck my brother and I are both in the Grad program at ECU working on our Masters.
These schools are all great in my opinion, but My point is to not discredit UNC from the All-around aspect of being a great University.
Tailgating…As of now certainly not a strong point. Being kind, but Hopefully the University could offer some assistance and land to add to this culture.
All in all, if you are a ‘hater’ fine, but understand that nationally your opinion is not the popular one.
The state of NC has several of the best Universities in the US in my opinion. Still I can admit that there are 100’s of great universities and most have much to offer if you were to actually experience what the students experience for 4 (or more) years.
Go Heels! Bryan
By k
August 29, 2007 11:18 AM | Link to this
Gotta love the North Carolina schools and the rivalry amongst them! Go Heels and App State! There is nothing like Chapel Hill and Boone, NC!
By Andrew
August 29, 2007 11:22 AM | Link to this
Tony, You lost all credibility the moment you put UNC on the list. You realize you told the nation that UNC has better tailgating than every other school in the SEC? That’s really sad.
Andrew
By t
August 29, 2007 11:38 AM | Link to this
SEC rules. period. Yep thats great to hear UNC has a nice tailgate and all, but whats the use partying if you know your team is about to get waxed on its home field
By Russell
August 29, 2007 12:03 PM | Link to this
For all you WolfSac fans! UNC 23 NCSU 9
All-time series record: UNC-63 NCSU-27 ties-6
How many years has it been since you jacks beat us in football? Think about it!
Now I’ve bled Carolina Blue since the day that I was born right here in the greatest state in the nation (NC) and I go to North Carolina games every year. But I can honestly say that we are not one of the best tailgaiting spots. We do have tailgating, though, don’t get that mistaken! Now do we have the most picturesque stadium in the nation? Absolutely! WIth Butch coming in the tailgating will come with the wins. But come Sept. 1st at 6 p.m. something special is going to take place. Maybe not this year, but the Carolina football tradition is about to be resurrected. ACC football schools watch out. The sleeping giant is about to awake from his slumber!
GO TAR HEELS GO!!!
By Russell
August 29, 2007 12:04 PM | Link to this
For all you WolfSac fans! UNC 23 NCSU 9
All-time series record: UNC-63 NCSU-27 ties-6
How many years has it been since you jacks beat us in football? Think about it!
Now I’ve bled Carolina Blue since the day that I was born right here in the greatest state in the nation (NC) and I go to North Carolina games every year. But I can honestly say that we are not one of the best tailgaiting spots. We do have tailgating, though, don’t get that mistaken! Now do we have the most picturesque stadium in the nation? Absolutely! WIth Butch coming in the tailgating will come with the wins. But come Sept. 1st at 6 p.m. something special is going to take place. Maybe not this year, but the Carolina football tradition is about to be resurrected. ACC football schools watch out. The sleeping giant is about to awake from his slumber!
GO TAR HEELS GO!!!
By BCB
August 29, 2007 12:11 PM | Link to this
I don’t particularly agree that Carolina has one of the top five “traditional” tailgating atmospheres in the South, but I do think it has a very different and unique tailgating atmosphere. Unlike many of the other schools on the list, and many that are not (including our brethren at NCSU), UNC doesn’t have the large open fields full of bbq pits and coolers many associate with tailgating. It’s a much more personal and smaller scale tailgating scene that is limited to small pockets of fans spread all over the campus. I certainly enjoy places like Carter-Finley, Death Valley, and he Big House…but, it’s also nice to be able to enjoy a few cold beers and some Bojangles fried chicken in the shade of the Pines. As for fan support…hopefully that will get better when we put a product on the field worth supporting!
Go heels!
By John
August 29, 2007 12:18 PM | Link to this
LOCAL STORY -
“Carolina Seeks More Vibrant Kenan Stadium” A year long study was done by UNC-Chapel Hill to seek improvements in the football atmosphere at the school. Among the things that needed improvement was places to tailgate. None could be found so the administration tells their complaining fans the “we” have as much space and most other schools but they did not tell the fans where the find it!
See for yourself at http://www.wral.com/sports/story/1753268/ and make sure to watch the video.
By Joey
August 29, 2007 12:30 PM | Link to this
“Well Joey my friend when you win 3 games a year thats what happens.”
Tell that to South Carolina, who didn’t make the list. They still sellout.
NC State has sold out for the 7th consecutive season. We’ve had nothing to brag about the last few years. Its called fan support. And that brings us to why everyone hates the Tarheels. When things are good, the stadium is full of Walmart fans. When things are bad, its Church Youth Groups, Buy-One-Get-One-Free tickets, and aluminum.
By Jason
August 29, 2007 12:32 PM | Link to this
UNC Football - 12,000 student seats in a 60,000 seat stadium and $10 tickets on sale now for 2007 home games for the general public. …..and a priceless football atmosphere which includes GREAT tailgating. Yea right!
By Tarheel Steve
August 29, 2007 12:37 PM | Link to this
I have been to alot of UNC games and also alot at Clemson. I have to admit that Clemson has the tailgate thing down to a science. Most of the tailgating at Clemson is done in a few very large grass fields, it is an awsome place to see a game , but most of the fans are very rude there…..Carolina is a beautiful place, but it is broken down into to many small areas for tailgating and you lose something with that. The fans are almost always great and welcome the visitors with respect, something Clemson doesn’t know anything about. I went to the Notre Dame game last year and hands down, it is in class of its own…..INCREDIBLE!!!!
By DominatedbySled
August 29, 2007 12:38 PM | Link to this
All you sad sacks are missing the point. It isn’t about the quantity of space set aside for tailgaiting, but the quality of the experience. We may not be a powerhouse, but at least we usually whoop up on our rivals. So at least the tailgaters have something to hang their hat on. (more so than the sad sacks in the rest of the state… You losers know who you are.) Secondly, we have a great climate, so you don’t fry like in the deep south in the beginning of the season or freeze your chicken wings off in the later part of the season like up north. Third, it has an area devoted to a family atmosphere that provides some refuge from those that are there as an excuse to drink. Fourth and finally, we have a great campus and great co-eds. Always an aesthetically pleasing combination.
By Jane B.
August 29, 2007 1:18 PM | Link to this
Lifelong UNC basketball fan here and they’re my number 2 team for football. I’m an ECU gradute and love our tailgating atmosphere. I’d honestly say ECU has the 2nd best in the state and NCSU beats us by shear numbers alone. I love the Tar Heels but it’s a basketball school. I’ve been to several football and basketball games and tailgating is not that great in Chapel Hill! Most football fans could care less when basketball cranks up and they drop football at the drop of a hat when the season goes south. They’re not really “into it” at the beginning of the season. ECU Pirate fans support the team no matter how the season goes. UNC does not have great tailgating.
By Geoff
August 29, 2007 1:31 PM | Link to this
I am a UGA grad, but grew up in Chapel Hill and have been going to UNC games since I was 7 (am I 37 now). There are some complete morons on this board that are just haters, but that is to be expected, especially when NCSU fans are present. Athens and Chapel Hill are very similar in that both have on campus stadiums (NCSU doesn’t) which makes for cramped parking, hence makes tailgating a lot harder than other places like NCSU who have the state fairgrounds for their parking. Additionally, the city has decided that open containers aren’t allowed, which definitely makes tailgating more difficult. However, what Barnhart was saying is that it is a beautiful place to spend a Saturday afternoon (if you have a good parking spot). Athens is great because football is so big, we deal with the cramped parking. Both are great, haven’t been to Ole Miss. I still wouldn’t say UNC is in the top 5, but it is not as bad as most are making it out to be on this board. Also, for those knocking UNC’s football tradition, you are showing your ignorance. If ACC championships is all you care about, then ok, but UNC has been very successful in many ways and has a better tradition than most give it credit for, it would probably surprise you if you actually did some research before opening your pie hole, State fans should know what I am talking about. UGA has great tradition, but