[Sticky] Shared Houston Logistics & Planning Thread
Trying to consolidate because these threads and conversations are popping up all over. Here is your one place for all of the fan-to-fan coordinating of everything but tickets to the game. Looking for ride shares, tailgating, food advice, parking advice, splitting places to stay, flights, offering places to stay, or any Houston/travel things to do other than The Thing, talk about it here. This will stay atop the message board until gameday.
Seth plans:
- I'm flying into Dallas to see my sister on Saturday, then need to be in Houston before noon on Sunday (anyone wanna share a ride)?
- The Alumni Club's pep rally is at 4PM at Rice Stadium. I might be doing a little Q&A there--TBA.
- Our good friends the Sklar Brothers are performing Sunday night at 8PM at The Secret Group at 2101 Polk, Houston TX 77003. If you're in town and looking for something to do with your nervous energy the night before. There are only a few hundred seats so if you're thinking about going, get on that.
- Monday I'm probably at the alumni territory tailgate since that was pretty good in Pasadena.
- Need to get back to Dallas sometime on Tuesday to fly out early morning Wednesday.
Content-wise, I don't think I can have UFR done before I leave. I'll have a ticket watch out tomorrow (Friday) and if it's possible to do a show on Sunday we'll try to get an MGoRadio out.
January 4th, 2024 at 7:24 PM ^
Don't fret.
If you do see something on UFR, get it to the team and don't publish it for the Huskies to read.
Enjoy this season. MGoBlog works because it is clearly a labor of love for you and Brian, so take a moment and enjoyed as well!
Thank you, Brian and everyone at MGoBlog for all of your wonderful work. Go Blue!
January 4th, 2024 at 9:15 PM ^
I'll do a reply/hijack here so that I can insert the very well-written 'Houston Area Guide' which was posted in an OP
https://mgoblog.com/mgoboard/houston-area-guide
...earlier this week by MGoUser Coffee_Addict.
Lots of useful Houston-area info plus comments with additional insights by others familiar with the Houston area. Thanks especially to those who added Championship Weekend event info in their thread comments.
January 5th, 2024 at 4:19 AM ^
Here’s a guide to help you navigate the parking situation.
On-site parking:
NRG Stadium offers on-site parking. Parking permits are available for purchase at $50 plus fees for automobiles and $200 plus fees for oversized vehicles. Purchase your parking space in advance through the official website (https://am.ticketmaster.com/cfbplayoff/2024parking) or on game day, subject to availability.
On-site parking lots will open at 11 a.m. on game day and close two hours after the conclusion of the championship game.
RVs/recreational vehicles will be allowed to park at NRG Stadium in Yellow Lot 36. No overnight RV parking will be allowed at NRG Stadium for the 2024 national championship game.
Accessible parking:
On-site accessible parking is available for purchase on game day for $50 plus fees per vehicle. Accessible parking spaces are allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. Those with a valid accessible license plate or hangtag, combined with a purchased parking permit, will be directed to the nearest accessible parking space. Accessible drop-off and pick-up points are available in Blue Lot 19.
Overnight RV parking:
Overnight RV parking is not permitted at NRG Stadium but nearby RV parks like South Main RV Park and Lakeview RV Resort offer accommodations. Make reservations directly with the respective RV parks, as these lots are not controlled by the CFP or NRG Park.
Public transportation:
Public transportation is available through Houston Metro and its METRORail services. All trains are accessible, and a dedicated shuttle will operate from the Stadium Park/Astrodome Station to a drop-off point near NRG Stadium entries. Visit ridemetro.org for detailed schedules and parking information.
Rideshare:
For rideshare, enter Yellow Lots 35 and 38 through Gate 16B from Main Street as the designated NRG Stadium pick-up/drop-off location.
Tailgating Guidelines:
Tailgating is allowed in all NRG Park parking lots for the 2024 College Football Playoff National Championship.
For more details, see https://collegefootballplayoff.com/sports/2017/12/1/parking.aspx & a full size map of the area around the venue.
January 5th, 2024 at 5:40 AM ^
Latest weather forecast for central Houston
January 5th, 2024 at 10:40 AM ^
Playoff Fan Central is a free event open noon to 6 p.m. Friday and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m Saturday and Sunday.
It include games, clinics, pep rallies, band performances, special guest appearances, autograph signings and exhibits celebrating college football and its history.
Arrive early (9 am) on Saturday for Media Day. Fans get free access as Michigan and Washington coaches and players are interviewed.
The Michigan marching band will perform on Sunday at 2 p.m.
The event also features Houston-specific vendors, including NASA and a mechanical bull.
You can get your picture with the CFP trophy.
https://collegefootballplayoff.com/sports/2018/9/25/pfc.aspx
Video from past Playoff Fan Centrals
January 5th, 2024 at 7:29 AM ^
Indulge in a variety of gourmet food and drink prepared by an all-star roster of chefs and more than 30 restaurants at Taste of the Championship on Sunday evening.
It is curated by Midwest-raised, James Beard Award-winning Chef Chris Shepherd.
For details, click on Taste of the Championship. Use code CFP2024 for a $100 discount.
Here's video from last year's event.
January 5th, 2024 at 11:02 AM ^
On gameday, there will be a tailgate in Blue Lots 16, 17, and 18 starting at 11 a.m. The tailgate features interactive games, activations, concessions, award-winning musical acts, live performances by each team’s marching band, and a chance to watch live ESPN broadcasts.
Fans must present a national championship game ticket for entry to the tailgate as it will be within a secured area.
https://collegefootballplayoff.com/sports/2019/9/28/champ-tailgate.aspx
January 6th, 2024 at 2:44 PM ^
I lived in Houston area (Katy) for a while. When I think of Houston and things to do it all seems to revolve around food. Whenever I return to Houston I try to hit one or all of these spots, they are not all the most well known but these places are at the top of my list. In random order:
Pappa Genos
Any of the Philly's are amazing or if you are feeling particularly glutenous, the FAT PHILLY is an option. I'm a philly cheesesteak and DISCO FRIES kind of guy.
https://www.pappagenos.com/menu.html
Lupe Tortilla
The original west Houston location is in a house and the others were designed to replicate it I believe but they are all great. For me, the Three Pepper Cheese Steak (not a sandwich, it's Carne Asada) is worth its weight in gold. Also, if you are looking for brunch, holy smokes, go here.
https://tex-mex.com/west-houston/
Christians Tailgate
I believe this is still the best burger I've had at a restaurant/bar EVER. The double with cheese and bacon is like crack. If you're feeling a little foo-foo-ish, the truffle fries are perfect.
https://www.christianstailgate.com/
Laredo Taqueria on Snover St
This is a true hole in the wall, not a chain but one of my all time favorites. I usually get the lunch special so I dont have to wait in line, the line is for those ordering from the menu. If you have the special you bypass the line and sit down, they will bring you your lunch. Dont forget to add an original Mexican coke for desert. INSANE. I was unable to find a website so I linked to this.
Zydeco's Louisiana Diner
For those who don't know, after Katrina, a ton of Cajuns relocated to Houston and brought some amazing Cajun cuisine. It may sound odd but if you are in Houston, you have to have GUMBO. There are hundreds of great places but this place stands out.
https://zydecolouisianadiner.com/houston-zydeco-louisiana-diner-food-menu
There are many more but these are my favorite.
January 7th, 2024 at 8:21 AM ^
Is anyone interested in having an MGoMeetup on Monday afternoon? I am going to likely miss the Sunday effort because I only get into town on Monday midday. Perhaps a designated location at the official tailgate?
January 8th, 2024 at 2:29 PM ^
We are at Canyon Creek on Wescott. It is owned by a UM Alum. Jammed pack though. 10 minute wait for beer/food.
It is getting crazy in here. Someone thinks he is running the Naked Mile.
January 4th, 2024 at 7:25 PM ^
Safe travels Seth and everyone else going to the game. I'm counting on y'all to bring home a great big beautiful Meeeechigan Football Victory!!🏈🏈🏈
Go Blue!!
January 4th, 2024 at 7:38 PM ^
Will miss your UFR but either way good luck and god speed.
January 4th, 2024 at 7:52 PM ^
I had a mental image of Seth working on the UFR on the plane ride back while someone sitting next to him looks over his shoulder and wonders what the heck he’s doing. I had to chuckle at that.
We are an interesting group, the UFR’er and the UFR’d.
I will be looking forward to UFR surprises dropping sometime this offseason, whether that be next week, next month, or the summertime.
January 4th, 2024 at 7:59 PM ^
I wrote sharpies on the plane home (and didn't sleep)
January 4th, 2024 at 9:02 PM ^
Please rest Seth.
Because if we win, we're going to be craving all that glorious content.
January 5th, 2024 at 7:17 PM ^
Win or lose, I'm getting some sleep afterwards.
January 4th, 2024 at 8:13 PM ^
Like some of you I purchased my national championship reservations back in August. I received my tickets for the game today in section 139. I was a little concerned because that section leans a little bit closer to the Washington sideline. CFP RSVP let me know that ticket allotment for the national championship is a little different. They provided a map on the teams allotment locations. I thought I would share it if anyone was curious. If you purchased a reservation you will definitely be with other Michigan fans.
January 4th, 2024 at 8:57 PM ^
If you don't mind me asking, how did the reservation work? I checked the site once a couple weeks ago, and Michigan was already $700+ for the reservation alone.
Do you lose the reservation if your team loses? Because otherwise, I'm just going to make a reservation for every season going forward.
January 4th, 2024 at 10:14 PM ^
If your team loses, the money is gone.
January 4th, 2024 at 10:57 PM ^
The reservations are based on Vegas odds on the chance of your team making it to the title game. It also depends if you are wanting lower bowl or upper bowl. They're generally always in the corner or the back of the end zone. In 2021 the reservations were only $8 because no one saw us coming, but this year I paid $260 for the lower bowl. If Michigan makes the title game you get tickets at face value, but if they don't you lose the money for the reservation.
January 4th, 2024 at 10:13 PM ^
Does anyone know in which section the band is sitting?
January 6th, 2024 at 10:03 AM ^
Section 135
January 4th, 2024 at 8:18 PM ^
Anyone have two tickets to the alumni tailgate? Looking for a few.
January 5th, 2024 at 2:52 AM ^
I have 2. How can I reach out to you?
January 5th, 2024 at 7:09 PM ^
Also looking for 2 to the tailgate if still available!
Looking for 1 to the Kickoff Bash on Saturday as well if any of those are floating around
January 4th, 2024 at 8:26 PM ^
So I am flying in to Austin on Sunday with my 11 yo son and am undecided between heading to Houston Sunday vs Monday (flying out Tuesday from Austin as well).
If anyone wants to share a ride let me know as I have room for 2-3 in the SUV I rented.
Thanks for doing the ticket watch thing tomorrow, Seth. I have been holding out and need some guidance. Hope to run into you at the game!
January 4th, 2024 at 9:00 PM ^
I'm flying in/out of Austin as well.
I think Austin is such a cooler town, being the capital and a college town vs. Houston's sprawl.
Some amazing food as well.
January 5th, 2024 at 9:48 AM ^
Are you commuting from Austin, and back the night of the game, or staying in Houston that night?
January 5th, 2024 at 9:56 AM ^
It's a bit up in the air. Our flight as it stands leaves Austin early on Tuesday so I'm leaning towards a long night on Monday back to Austin.
As for when we head to Houston, there's a snow storm heading to us in Boston which also could impact us.
That said, if you just need a ride there and back I'm happy to help.
January 5th, 2024 at 7:22 PM ^
Much appreciated, MGoBrother. Sounds like I'll be watching from home, but hopefully another follower is able to accept your generosity. Enjoy your trip, and GO BLUE!
January 5th, 2024 at 5:52 PM ^
Hi Niels: Are you still looking to share a ride from Austin to Houston on Sunday? What time are you & your son landing? I'm looking to share a ride, happy to share costs/driving. Thanks, Robert 847-309-1980
January 4th, 2024 at 8:31 PM ^
Got alumni tailgate tix - thank you!
January 4th, 2024 at 8:44 PM ^
I just got my ticket and am in Section 607. I plan to fly in Monday Morning from Grand Rapids. I’m a solo non-graduate, (Wolverine from another University) but I can’t wait to be in Houston and partake in the days events.
January 4th, 2024 at 8:51 PM ^
My sister needs two tickets for the alumni tailgate. Text me 312*523*8390
January 4th, 2024 at 8:53 PM ^
Any plans for a MgoMeetup someplace?
Would love to see some of you filthy animals in person.
January 4th, 2024 at 8:58 PM ^
Interested as well if there's something organized.
January 4th, 2024 at 9:43 PM ^
Sklars comedy show on Sunday night seems the best bet.
January 7th, 2024 at 8:24 AM ^
Would love some ideas for a Monday afternoon MGoMeetup pre-game -- perhaps a designated area at the official tailgate?
January 5th, 2024 at 9:04 AM ^
Will be at the Alumni Assoc. tailgate. It was very good at last year's Fiesta Bowl.
Hopefully it is indoors as the weather looks sketchy.
January 5th, 2024 at 10:47 AM ^
It looks like it will at the convention center right next to NRG, appears to be indoors.
January 5th, 2024 at 3:07 PM ^
Sklars for me, and then some nearby watering hole after. Hopefully w/ a bunch of Michigan folks from the show.
January 4th, 2024 at 9:07 PM ^
I have tickets to the alumni tailgate, but several of my friends do not. Is there another tailgate or tailgate area for before the game? Seems odd to not have something at a restaurant or bar or even an area setup in the parking lot for such a huge game like this where most fans don’t know the area or have a place to go.
January 4th, 2024 at 9:12 PM ^
I guess you mean Wednesday morning because if Tuesday morning, that seems nearly impossible. Someone get him a ride so he can rest.
January 4th, 2024 at 9:44 PM ^
I'm flying home buttcrack of dawn on Wednesday from Dallas.
January 5th, 2024 at 9:32 AM ^
Seth I’m driving to Dallas pretty much right after the game to catch an early Tuesday flight (yes, that’s tight!). I know it’s early for you but it could be an option. Lmk!
January 5th, 2024 at 3:47 PM ^
Seth, we'll be driving from Houston to Dallas on Tuesday to catch a 5PM flight. Happy to have you join us for the drive from Houston, if you'd like to do so.
January 4th, 2024 at 9:50 PM ^
Heard on the radio this morning that Delta was adding a DTW flight to Houston leaving Sun morning returning Tue. The price was $1500 a seat!
January 4th, 2024 at 11:27 PM ^
Just checked delta and it's $2500 per ticket for a DTW-IAH with a connection. Good luck.