California Memorial Stadium

Capacity: 63,000

Home Teams: California Golden Bears (NCAA College Football)

California Memorial Stadium Events

The meaning of the word memorial in Berkeley’s California Memorial Stadium gives a clue as to how old the facility is, as it was opened in 1924 in the memory of those who lost their lives in the First World War. The California Golden Bears of the University of California, Berkeley (UC Berkeley/Cal) have called it home ever since, though the stadium underwent major modernizing renovations in 2012. The stadium itself is visually striking inside, ringed by rows of sun-drenched golden bleachers that dip just low enough to offer expansive views out over San Francisco Bay and the hills around Berkeley (as well as Strawberry Canyon). The Golden Bears themselves, often known as the Cal Bears, were once one of the strongest teams in the nation, but have endured long periods of mediocrity in the years since punctuated by occasional surges (and some superb individual performers such as Aaron Rodgers, now a star quarterback in the NFL). Despite the varying fortunes of the team on the field, the atmosphere at California Memorial Stadium is always electric, with the Cal Marching Band belting out “Fight for California” while droves of blue-clad fans sing along. When the stadium hosts the “Big Game,” the traditional rivalry matchup against Stanford University, Cal students rally around a huge bonfire (though this has not always happened in recent years due to fears of wildfires caused by widespread drought) and put on a theater production of “The Gaieties” that makes light of the rivalry. The football game is often accompanied by other sports (and, er, fake sports) played between the universities, such as the Big Splash (water polo), the Big Freeze (ice hockey), and the Big Sweep (Quidditch…). The two universities’ newspapers also hold a touch football game known as the Ink Bowl. Along with all Cal Bears home games, California Memorial Stadium has hosted international soccer matches in the past as well as the Oakland Raiders NFL team (a long time ago, back when they existed), graduations, and the very occasional concert, but these have now dwindled away. Anyone showing up to the stadium hungry will find plenty of tempting snacks, such as tacos, hot dogs, burgers, BBQ chicken on a stick, and beer, along with surprisingly good coffee. There are also food trucks along the eastern concourse that feature a diverse range of local food from around the Bay Area. Those on the hunt for Bears merchandise will find all kinds at kiosks and shops in California Memorial Stadium or around campus. Don’t show up unless you are wearing blue!

California Memorial Stadium Seating Chart

California Memorial Stadium is a large venue with many different seating options for visitors to choose from. Those looking for a more exclusive experience can opt for premium seating such as luxury suites or club seats, which feature comfortable seats and amenities as well as top-notch food and beverage service. Terrace decks offer the experience of a luxury suite in the open air. Large swathes of general admission seating are also available, consisting mostly of bleacher-style seating. To find all the best tickets to the most popular Cal Bears home games at California Memorial Stadium, check out our listings on TicketX as well as our helpful seating chart.

Getting to California Memorial Stadium (Transportation and Parking)

Visitors can access California Memorial Stadium via public transportation or driving their own vehicle. 

Getting to California Memorial Stadium via public transportation

Visitors can ride BART trains or local buses to downtown Berkeley, after which there are free shuttles and ADA golf cars that will ferry you to California Memorial Stadium for free. Visit the UC Berkeley website for more information on shuttles and golf carts. You could also walk (30 minutes), cycle, or take a taxi or ride-share to the stadium.

Getting to California Memorial Stadium by car

You can drive your own vehicle to California Memorial Stadium, but come prepared for heavy traffic near the venue as well as certain road closures on game day. Plan to arrive very early to get parked and enjoy the day. Check the UC Berkeley website in advance for information on parking, driving routes, and road closures. Many fans prefer to take public transportation or use Park and Ride services to get to games.

Does California Memorial Stadium have on-site parking?

Not exactly (unless you have a university parking permit). Public parking is located in downtown Berkeley in the UC lots, which are first-come, first-served. Non-UC parking lots do not always have shuttle stops nearby, meaning that you could end up needing to walk a long way or opt for alternative transportation (taxi, etc.). Check the UC Berkeley website for more information on UC and non-UC parking options. 

How much does California Memorial Stadium parking cost?

Parking passes for the UC lots near California Memorial Stadium cost $45. Cash is not accepted (only cards). Prices at non-UC lots vary. Visit the UC Berkeley website for more information on how to find the most affordable parking. Do NOT park anywhere on the street without a permit; you will be towed and fines in Berkeley are very steep.