Jaunted

· Home Turf: Heinz Field in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Pitt’s home is fairly new, and fans can expect the best of the best when it comes to their stadium. That’s because the team shares its field with the NFL’s Pittsburgh Steelers. Heinz Field opened its gates back in 2001, and as all things NFL, no expense was spared.

A slight downer is that things might not get as rowdy as other college stadiums, as this place only holds about 65,000 rather than the 100,000 fans at other scools. However, you’ll always feel like part of the game as the place was designed with the fan in mind—end zone seats are just 25 feet away from the action. Huge video screens will ensure that you don’t miss anything, but if you need to step away from the action, the 40,000 square foot Coca-Cola Great Hall is dedicated to the school’s football program–and the Steelers might have like a couple things in there too.

· Away Team Accommodations:
Hotels aren’t too happening on the city’s north shore, but unfortunately that’s where the tailgating and game day action are located. However, there’s loads of hotels just across the river, and on game days fans pour across the Roberto Clemente Bridge to get to the action. It’s closed to traffic, so no need to watch for cars if you've had too many Blood Marys at the breakfast buffet. There’s one problem: The Steelers are in town on Sunday, so the best accommodations have already been booked.

If you’re looking to spend the weekend you’ll have to stay out by the airport or in a more suburban location. We were pretty impressed with our stay at a Hyatt Place elsewhere, so we say go for one of the city’s two locations. The one outside the city or near the airport both should be available for about $100, but hurry up and get booking.

· Where to Party:
The school’s campus isn’t within walking distance of the stadium, so any potential for college shenanigans are out for this football rivalry. The best game day activity has got to be selecting your favorite option from Primanti Brothers. There’s several locations of this famous french-fry-stuffed sandwich shop if you need one on your way to the game, and there’s even one right inside Heinz Field if you need a second helping. If you’re allergic to sandwiches, just get something to drink instead. This is Pittsburgh and that means loads of beer offerings from local breweries like Iron City Brewery. After a few drinks the party always seems to find us.

Related Stories:
· River City Rivalry [Wikipedia]
· University of Cincinnati Athletics [Official Site]
· University of Pittsburgh Athletics [Official Site]
· Football Rivalry Travel: Buckeyes And Wolverines Ready To Rumble [Jaunted]

[Photo: daveynin]