School
Northwestern University
Stadium
Ryan Field
Capacity
47,130
Conference
Big Ten
Official Northwestern University Northwestern Wildcats home & away games
* Schedule subject to change. Always verify with the official athletic department.
Evanston sits on Lake Michigan and gets classic Chicago-area fall weather — warm in September, crisp in October, and cold and windy by November. The lake effect can make it feel colder than the thermometer suggests.
72°
High
55°
Low
58°
High
43°
Low
45°
High
33°
Low
These months offer the most comfortable conditions for outdoor tailgating and the walk to Ryan Field.
Late-season games can be cold and unpredictable. Dress in warm layers and check the forecast before heading out.
The top neighborhoods to celebrate in Evanston on game day
The heart of Evanston's bar and restaurant scene, just a short walk from Ryan Field. Packed with Wildcat fans on gameday.
Neighborhood corridor near the stadium with local bars, restaurants, and coffee shops. The closest area to Ryan Field for pre-game drinks.
Evanston's main commercial strip with a variety of bars, breweries, and restaurants catering to the gameday crowd.
The best spots near Ryan Field for Northwestern Wildcats fans
The ultimate walking route between the top game day bars near Ryan Field — follow the stops in order for the best experience
Total Distance
1.2 miles
Estimated Time
4-5 hours
Bar Stops
5 Stops
Route Type
Walking Route
Start Here
Prairie Moon, 1635 Chicago Ave, Evanston, IL 60201
End Point
Nevin's Brewing Company
Prairie Moon
Stop 1 of 5
Craft beer selection
Wear your Northwestern Wildcats gear and meet fellow fans at every stop along the route!
Skip the planning — book a guided bar crawl and we'll lead you through every stop
Book Your SpotThe rituals, chants, and moments that make Northwestern University Northwestern Wildcats game day unlike anywhere else
Annual rivalry game vs. Illinois
Northwestern and Illinois battle annually for the Land of Lincoln Trophy — a bronze replica of the Lincoln Memorial. The rivalry dates back to 1892 and is one of the oldest in college football.
Designated home games
For designated Purple Out games, the entire Ryan Field crowd wears purple — creating a stunning wall of violet that intimidates opponents and energizes the Wildcats.
All home games
Evanston's location on the shores of Lake Michigan makes it one of the most scenic college football destinations in the country. Fans walk along the lakefront before games, taking in stunning views of the Chicago skyline across the water.
Join our guided bar crawl and we'll make sure you don't miss a single Northwestern Wildcats ritual
Turn your love of Northwestern Wildcats football into income. Organize bar crawls on game days, build your crew, and get paid doing what you love.
Everything you need to know before you arrive at Ryan Field
Official stadium parking with tailgating. Permits required — purchase at nusports.com in advance.
Street and lot parking near Central St. Free on weekends but fills up fast. Short walk to Ryan Field.
Covered parking in downtown Evanston. Walk or take a rideshare to the stadium. Best option if stadium lots are sold out.
Rideshare Drop-off
Central St & Ashland Ave, Evanston, IL — short walk to Ryan Field.
Shuttle Service
CTA Purple Line Express runs directly from downtown Chicago to Evanston. Foster stop is closest to Ryan Field.
Top hotels near Ryan Field for game day weekend
Everything you need to know about Evanston game day bar crawls
Information sourced from official and authoritative references
Book your Northwestern University Northwestern Wildcats game day bar crawl and experience Evanston nightlife like never before!
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