Fall means football.
A cool crispness in the air mixing with the smoky smells coming from a tailgate grill is all you need to get ready for another exciting season of college football. At GenTeal, we’re thrilled to be able to partner with several of the top collegiate athletic programs in the country to deliver our Collegiate Collection.
Since we’re all about that next adventure, let’s check out some of the best places to catch a game.
Memorial Stadium, Clemson University
“Death Valley” is one of the most feared places to play in college football, and the aura begins with the Clemson Tigers racing down the hill to rub Howard’s Rock before kickoff. It’ll be a sea of orange and white as the Tigers aim to capture another conference crown this year.
Where to eatRick Erwin’s is a classic American steakhouse that has positioned itself as one of the best restaurants in Upstate South Carolina. Located in Patrick Square, it features an extensive wine list, unrivaled service and, obviously, some of the steaks around.
Where to playIf you’re in Clemson, you have to grab a beer at The Esso Club. A fixture in this quintessential college town, Esso’s has been serving cold draft beer to thirsty students and Tiger fans since it first opened as a gas station before slowly transitioning into one of the nation’s most iconic sports bars.
Where to stayLocated in the heart of downtown Clemson, The Shepherd Hotel offers five-star accommodations, curated amenities and top-notch hospitality to make sure fans are ready to cheer on the Tigers.
Neyland Stadium, University of Tennessee
One of the largest stadiums in the U.S., Neyland Stadium features dizzying heights in its upper deck and deafening roars on Saturdays in the fall. Home of the Tennessee Volunteers, you’ll be sure to hear “Rocky Top” on more than one occasion while you catch some SEC football.
Where to eatWant to celebrate a Tennessee win on the field? Then join the legions of Volunteer fans who flood Calhoun’s on a gameday weekend for some beer and BBQ. With a location on the Tennessee River, you’ll get scenic views and delicious food in one stop.
Where to playBearden’s Beer Garden has positioned itself as one of the best places to grab a beer and enjoy the beautiful fall weather of the Smoky Mountains. An expansive beer list means you’re sure to find something cold to drink.
Where to stayTechnically 45 minutes outside of Knoxville, Blackberry Farm still remains the resort to beat in the area. Nestled on 4,200 acres in the Smoky Mountains, it has garnered countless awards and accolades from Garden & Gun, Southern Living, U.S. News & World Report, Food + Wine, Travel + Leisure and more. From the service to the accommodations to the views, trust us, the drive is worth it.
Yulman Stadium, Tulane University
One of the most historic programs in the South, Tulane was a founding member of the SEC and has continued that tradition in recent years with a victory in the Sugar Bowl two seasons ago. The Green Wave moved back to campus 10 years ago at Yulman Stadium, establishing it as a touch place for opponents to come play.
Where to eatIt’s New Orleans, so it’s really hard to go wrong here. But if you’re in the Big Easy, you might as well get some Creole food, and there may be no more iconic place than Dooky Chase which has been serving up red beans and rice, gumbo, jambalaya and more since 1941.
Where to playSure, New Orleans is known for Hurricanes and other mixed cocktails, but one of the best hidden gems in the city is Barrel Proof, a dedicated whiskey bar on Magazine Street. With more than 300 whiskeys and bourbons to try, you won’t run out of tasting options at this trendy spot.
Where to stayLegendary is the best way to describe The Pontchartrain Hotel. Situated in the city’s Garden District adjacent to the streetcar route, it’s a circa-1927 hotel boasting modern luxuries in a historic, charming setting.
GenTeal Apparel works with 21 major colleges and universities (and counting) to create curated clothing featuring their official marks. Get outfitted for your favorite team’s game day by checking out our Collegiate Collection. Don’t see your school? Let us know!
