Nov 10, 2025
·Mary Callahan
Few college football venues can match the natural beauty and atmosphere of Folsom Field. Nestled against the backdrop of the Rocky Mountains in Boulder, Colorado, the stadium has been home to the University of Colorado Buffaloes since 1924. With its rich history, breathtaking scenery and recent surge in national attention, Folsom Field is one of the most iconic destinations in college football.
About Folsom Field
Address: 2400 Colorado Ave, Boulder, CO 80305
Opened: 1924
Capacity: ~50,000
Primary Tenant: Colorado Buffaloes football (NCAA Pac-12, moving to Big 12 in 2024)
Surface: Natural grass
Located on the University of Colorado’s campus, Folsom Field offers fans both historic charm and modern amenities. Whether you’re there for a fall Saturday showdown, a summer concert or a community event, the stadium’s setting and energy make it a one-of-a-kind venue.
A Look Back at Folsom Field’s History
Folsom Field first opened in 1924 with a capacity of just 26,000. Named after former CU coach Fred Folsom, the stadium has grown alongside the university and its football program.
Expansions: Multiple renovations, including major upgrades in the 1950s, 1960s and 2000s, increased capacity and improved facilities.
Notable Moments:
Home to legendary CU teams, including the 1990 national championship squad.
Historic rivalries with Nebraska, Colorado State and Utah.
Memorable performances from stars like Kordell Stewart, Rashaan Salaam and Deion Figures.
Concerts: U2, The Rolling Stones and The Eagles have all played major shows here, cementing its status as more than just a football venue.
Getting to Folsom Field
By Car: Boulder is accessible via US-36 from Denver. Parking near campus is limited on game days, so fans are encouraged to use CU’s designated parking lots, which can be reserved in advance.
By Public Transit: RTD’s Flatiron Flyer and other regional bus services connect Denver to Boulder, with drop-offs close to the stadium. Local buses also run throughout the city.
By Bike/Walking: As a bike-friendly city, Boulder offers plenty of bike racks around campus. Many fans walk from downtown Boulder, which is less than a mile from the stadium.
Rideshare: Uber and Lyft drop-off points are available near campus, though traffic is heavy on game days.
Seating at Folsom Field
The stadium offers a variety of seating options, all with views of either the action on the field or the stunning Flatirons:
Lower Bowl Sidelines: Closest to the field, filled with students, alumni and die-hard fans.
North End Zone: Home of the CU student section, where energy and noise reach their peak.
Club Level & Suites: Located on the east side, featuring upgraded seating, lounges and amenities.
Upper Deck: Provides panoramic views of the field, the CU campus and the Rocky Mountains beyond.
Food & Drink at Folsom Field
Concessions at Folsom Field highlight both traditional stadium fare and Boulder’s foodie culture:
Classic Eats: Hot dogs, nachos, pretzels and burgers.
Local Options: Colorado-inspired dishes, including BBQ, burritos and vegetarian/vegan-friendly meals.
Drinks: A wide selection of craft beer, seltzers, wine and non-alcoholic beverages.
Premium Areas: Expanded menus, cocktails and gourmet offerings in club and suite levels.
Atmosphere at Folsom Field
Folsom Field is known for its passionate fans and unique traditions:
Ralphie’s Run: Before every game, CU’s live buffalo mascot, Ralphie, charges across the field with handlers—a tradition unlike any other in college football.
Scenic Setting: With the Rocky Mountains as a backdrop, it’s one of the most picturesque stadiums in the country.
Rivalries: Games against Nebraska and Colorado State are especially electric, drawing national attention.
Coach Prime Era: With Deion Sanders (Coach Prime) taking over in 2023, Folsom Field has surged into the national spotlight, with sellout crowds and celebrities filling the stands.
Stadium Policies
Bag Policy: Clear bag policy in effect (12” x 6” x 12” or smaller). Small clutches and medically necessary bags are exceptions.
Cashless Payments: Most concessions and vendors are cashless.
Prohibited Items: Outside food and drinks, umbrellas, drones and noisemakers are not permitted.
Re-Entry: Fans cannot re-enter once they leave the stadium.
Notable Events at Folsom Field
1990 National Championship Season: CU’s run to the national title included several unforgettable home games.
1994 “Miracle at Michigan” Connection: While the famous Hail Mary happened in Ann Arbor, the quarterback, Kordell Stewart, became a Boulder legend.
U2 Concert (1997): Part of their PopMart Tour, with over 50,000 fans filling the stadium.
Coach Prime’s Debut Season: Sellout crowds in 2023–2024 transformed Boulder into one of the hottest tickets in sports.
Nearby Attractions
Boulder offers plenty to see and do before or after a game:
Pearl Street Mall: A lively pedestrian area with shops, bars and restaurants.
Chautauqua Park: Hiking trails and scenic views just minutes from campus.
Breweries: Boulder is known for craft beer—try Avery Brewing, Upslope or Boulder Beer Company.
University of Colorado Campus: Explore historic buildings, museums and the stunning Norlin Quad.
Why Folsom Field Stands Out
Folsom Field is more than just a football stadium—it’s a Colorado landmark. With its scenic backdrop, unique traditions and passionate fans, it delivers an experience unlike any other in college sports. Whether you’re catching a Buffs game during the Coach Prime era, seeing a world-class concert or simply taking in the view, a visit to Folsom Field is unforgettable.
Plan Your Visit with SeatGeek
From historic rivalries to must-see concerts, Folsom Field is one of the premier live event destinations in college sports. Use SeatGeek to compare ticket prices, find the best seats and plan your next trip to Boulder’s iconic stadium.