‘Your Wallet’: How you can save on Husker game day costs in Lincoln

LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) – Going to a Husker football game at Memorial Stadium can be expensive, especially if you’re traveling from out of town.

Every home game, around 90,000 people flood the downtown area – and they’re spending lots of money.

“Beyond the tickets, there’s expenses for food that’s inside the stadium or a venue outside of the stadium,” said Eric Thompson, the director of the Bureau of Business Research at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln.

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The price for a single ticket to a home game is around $60.

Thompson did a study on game day expenses. After tickets, food and drinks were the most expensive item of the day.

That’s followed by shopping and lodging; however, those were further down the list because some fans live in Lincoln or stay with friends.

Parking is also an additional $15 to $25 depending on the location.

But for those who are traveling, things can add up.

If you’re planning to go to a game, there are ways to cut down on the spending.

“It still can be quite affordable to come into town for a game if you bring some of the food, if you can find a good deal on parking,” Thompson said.

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Hotels can be extremely expensive in the Lincoln area, with some rooms for September games going for over $500 a night.

If you live too far away to travel back the same day, Thompson said an Omaha hotel might be a cheaper option.

Airbnb is also a cost-efficient alternative in some cases.

But if you’re willing to spend a few hundred dollars, Thompson said there are plenty of restaurants, stores and hotels where you can savor the unique taste of Lincoln on game day.

Editor’s note: This report is part of a weekly series Channel 8 is airing called “Your Wallet.”  We’ll be looking into any topics that deal with your money. The reports air every Monday during the Channel 8 News at 6 p.m.

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