Prepare for an electrifying day at Michigan Stadium, affectionately known as “The Big House,” in Ann Arbor, Michigan, the legendary battleground where over 107,000 fans gather to cheer on the University of Michigan Wolverines! Before you step into this iconic venue draped in maize and blue, understanding the Michigan Stadium bag policy is essential for a smooth entry. While these security measures might seem strict at first glance, they're carefully designed to protect everyone and keep game day moving efficiently. So leave the large bags at home and read on, knowing what to expect will help you breeze through the gates and get straight to the action!
Michigan Stadium Bag Policy
The Michigan Stadium bag policy takes a firm stance on security: all bags, including purses, backpacks, totes, and fanny packs, are strictly prohibited from entry. This no-bag policy applies universally to all guests, regardless of ticket type or seating section. The only exceptions are made for legitimate medical or childcare necessities, think prescription medications, medical devices, or infant supplies like diapers and formula. If you fall into one of these exception categories, stadium staff will work with you individually at the gate to verify your needs and facilitate entry. The streamlined approach means shorter security lines and faster entry for everyone, so plan accordingly by bringing only what you can carry in your pockets or hands. Remember, all guests and their belongings are subject to thorough inspection upon arrival.
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Purse Policy
The purse policy at Michigan Stadium follows the same zero-tolerance approach as the general bag policy. Whether you're carrying a designer handbag, a small wristlet, or a crossbody purse, none are permitted inside the stadium. This applies equally to all attendees, students, season ticket holders, and first-time visitors alike. To prepare for game day, consider wearing clothing with secure pockets for your essentials like your phone, wallet, keys, and tickets. Many fans opt for cargo pants or jackets with zippered pockets to keep their valuables safe and accessible throughout the game without violating the policy.
What Can I Bring to Michigan Stadium?
While the restrictions might seem extensive, Michigan Stadium does permit several items that will enhance your game day comfort and experience. Knowing what you can bring helps you prepare properly and ensures you'll have everything you need for those thrilling four quarters of Wolverine football:
Permitted Items:
- Foam seat pads
- Small non-pocket seat cushions without storage slots
- Binoculars (cases are not permitted)
- Cell phones and pagers
- Small cameras (those with a lens shorter than 6 inches) and radios
- Blankets and rain apparel (umbrellas are not permitted)
- Walking canes
Keep in mind that even permitted items will be inspected by security staff during the entry process. Arrive early to allow sufficient time for screening, especially on high-attendance game days when lines can extend considerably. Pro tip: The simpler you pack, the faster you'll get to your seat!
Prohibited Items
To maintain a safe and enjoyable environment for all 100,000+ attendees, Michigan Stadium enforces strict prohibitions on numerous items. Familiarize yourself with this comprehensive list before heading to the game to avoid the disappointment of having to return items to your vehicle or use the bag check service:
- All bags (including purses, clear bags, fanny packs, etc.)
- All bottles (including all types of water bottles)
- Alcoholic beverages
- Aerosol and spray cans
- Animals (except service animals for persons with a disability)
- Apparel or signage displaying profane or abusive language
- Containers of any kind (including coolers, thermoses, cups, cans, and flasks)
- Flags and flagpoles
- Food of any kind
- Irritants
- Projectiles (including footballs, Frisbees, and beach balls)
- Seat cushions containing any type of metal or those with pockets, storage slots, seat backs, armrests, or attachments of any kind
- Strollers
- Video cameras, tripods, and selfie sticks
- Umbrellas
- Weapons
Water Bottle Policy
Michigan Stadium maintains a strict no-bottle policy that includes all water bottles, whether plastic, metal, or reusable varieties. While you can't bring your own hydration, the stadium provides multiple alternatives to keep you refreshed during the game. Water fountains are strategically positioned throughout the public concourses on every level of the stadium, just ask any Michigan Stadium Event Team Member wearing their distinctive staff apparel, and they'll point you to the nearest fountain. Even more convenient, every concession stand equipped with soda dispensers will provide free cups of water upon request, no purchase necessary. Staying hydrated during those warm September games or intense rivalry matchups is important, so don't hesitate to take advantage of these complimentary options throughout the game.
Bag Check
If you arrive at Michigan Stadium with prohibited items, don't panic, there's a solution that doesn't require missing kickoff. The stadium operates a Bag Check facility conveniently located inside the south entrance of Crisler Center, just off Stadium Way. This service allows you to temporarily store items that don't meet entry requirements rather than making the long trek back to your parking spot. Upon check-in, you'll receive a claim ticket that serves as your receipt, guard this carefully, as you'll need it to retrieve your belongings after the game. The service does have limitations: cash, alcohol, illegal substances, food, video cameras, standard cameras, and weapons cannot be checked under any circumstances. Additionally, the university assumes no liability for lost, stolen, or damaged checked items, so use this service at your own risk. Time-sensitive detail: all checked items must be picked up within 45 minutes following the game's conclusion, so don't linger too long celebrating that Wolverine victory before reclaiming your belongings!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I bring a bag to Michigan Stadium?
A: No, all bags, including purses and fanny packs, are prohibited from being carried into Michigan Stadium. Exceptions are made for guests with medical or childcare needs, such as medical prescriptions or diapers for a baby, and these will be addressed individually at the gates.
Q: Are there any exceptions to the bag policy?
A: Yes, exceptions are made for guests with medical or childcare needs. Items like medical prescriptions or diapers for a baby are allowed. These exceptions will be addressed individually at the gates.
Q: Can I bring my purse to Michigan Stadium?
A: No, purses of any size or type are not allowed inside the stadium, in line with the overall bag policy.
Q: Can I bring my water bottle into Michigan Stadium?
A: No, all types of water bottles are prohibited. However, water fountains are located throughout the public concourses at the stadium, and fans can ask any Michigan Stadium Event Team Member for their nearest location. Additionally, free cups of water may be obtained from any concession stand with soda dispensing capability.
Q: Does Michigan Stadium have a bag check?
A: Michigan Stadium offers a Bag Check area for guests who may have items that will not be allowed into the stadium. This area is located inside the south entrance of Crisler Center off Stadium Way. Guests must take their prohibited items to their vehicle or to the Bag Check area. A claim check will be issued to them, which they should retain in order to claim their checked items. Please note that certain items may not be checked.
These security policies are fundamental to creating a safe, enjoyable experience for everyone who enters The Big House. By following these guidelines and planning ahead, you'll breeze through entry and maximize your time enjoying the incredible atmosphere of Michigan football. Go Blue, and have an unforgettable game day experience at one of college football's most storied venues!