
Drake Stadium Des Moines
Historic Drake Stadium in Des Moines, Iowa, renowned for the prestigious Drake Relays and AAU Junior Olympics, also hosts collegiate sports.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peak season for track & field events

Drake Stadium Des Moines
Best Time
Peak season for track & field events
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Historic Drake Stadium in Des Moines, Iowa, renowned for the prestigious Drake Relays and AAU Junior Olympics, also hosts collegiate sports.
"A generally good experience for our family, with a well-kept stadium and not overly crowded."

🎟️ Book Tickets Early
Major events like the Drake Relays and AAU Junior Olympics sell out fast. Secure your spot in advance!
👟 Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and standing, especially during multi-day events.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Historic 'Big Blue Oval'
Drake Stadium
The iconic track where legends have competed. Feel the history under your feet!

AAU Junior Olympics
Drake Stadium
Witness young athletes from across the nation showcase their incredible talents.

Drake Relays
Drake Stadium
A storied event with a rich history, drawing elite athletes and breaking records.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for Track & Field Fans
Beyond the Big Events
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Book Tickets Early
Major events like the Drake Relays and AAU Junior Olympics sell out fast. Secure your spot in advance!
👟 Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and standing, especially during multi-day events.
☀️ Sun Protection
Bring sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses, as much of the stadium is exposed to the sun.
📸 Photo Ops
Capture the energy of the events and the historic stadium.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Book Tickets Early
Major events like the Drake Relays and AAU Junior Olympics sell out fast. Secure your spot in advance!
👟 Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and standing, especially during multi-day events.
☀️ Sun Protection
Bring sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses, as much of the stadium is exposed to the sun.
📸 Photo Ops
Capture the energy of the events and the historic stadium.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors generally praise Drake Stadium for its well-maintained facilities and the exciting atmosphere during major track and field events. The 'Big Blue Oval' is a highlight, and the stadium offers good vendor options and is not overly crowded during many events. Some minor critiques mention security being a bit overzealous and wishing for better access to certain seating areas for photography.
"It's a pretty nice stadium. We were there for high school state track & field. Lots of vendor options everywhere. The place was not overly crowded, so it wasn't too difficult to get around. The seating was in good condition and the track appeared to be in good condition. A generally good experience for our family."
Nick Chill
"Attended state track competition at Drake Stadium. I was able to watch my son run the 3200m event on Thursday. Kyle posted a personal best and got to run with some really tough competition. We spent all three days at Drake. Clear Creek Amana boys finished in a tie for 3rd over all. One of the coolest things is Iowa State track set attendance records for over 40,000 people attending for the three days. What a great step forward in growing track in Iowa."
Jeff Vogel
"Turf is slow but the place is amazing. Security is a little bit full of themselves, I get that mall cop feeling. Stadium is well kept, extremely clean, and everything is convenient. Wished they would have opened the visiting side for better pics but since we were the only visitors out of almost 400 people that might have been a little much."
Fredrick Ferguson
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Drake Stadium is located on the Drake University campus in Des Moines, Iowa. It's easily accessible by car, with parking available on campus. Public transportation options may also be available; check with Des Moines Area Regional Transit Authority (DART) for routes and schedules.
Yes, parking is typically available on the Drake University campus for events at Drake Stadium. It's advisable to check the specific event details for any special parking arrangements or fees.
Drake University is a central campus, and depending on your location in Des Moines, walking or biking might be feasible. The stadium is also part of the campus, so it's integrated with other university facilities.
From downtown Des Moines, Drake Stadium is a short drive. You can also explore public transit options via DART. The stadium is a prominent landmark on the Drake University campus.
While specific drop-off points can vary by event, ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are generally available in Des Moines and can drop you off near the Drake University campus.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tickets for events at Drake Stadium are typically available through the Drake University athletics website, or through authorized ticket vendors for specific events like the Drake Relays or AAU Junior Olympics.
Ticket prices vary significantly depending on the event. Major competitions like the Drake Relays or AAU Junior Olympics will have different pricing than Drake University sporting events. Check the official event pages for current pricing.
Discounts may be available for students, seniors, or groups, depending on the event. It's best to check the ticketing information for each specific event or contact the Drake University athletics department.
Stadium hours are event-specific. Gates typically open a few hours before major competitions or games. Always check the event schedule for exact timings.
For popular events like the Drake Relays or AAU Junior Olympics, it's highly recommended to purchase tickets in advance as they can sell out. For smaller university events, day-of tickets might be available, but it's not guaranteed.
🎫 🏟️ Onsite Experience
Drake Stadium offers various seating options, including bleachers and reserved seating. Reviews suggest the seating is generally in good condition.
Yes, numerous vendor options are available at Drake Stadium, offering a variety of food and drinks during events.
Drake Stadium is designed to be accessible. Information on accessible seating and facilities can usually be found on the Drake University athletics website or by contacting the venue directly.
Drake Stadium hosts a wide range of events, including track and field competitions (like the Drake Relays and AAU Junior Olympics), football games for Drake University, and soccer matches.
Photography is generally allowed for personal use, but professional or commercial photography may require special permits. Check the event's specific policies.
📸 📸 Photography
The 'Big Blue Oval' itself offers iconic shots, especially during events. Consider elevated views if available, or capturing the athletes in action.
Drone usage is typically restricted at sporting venues and university campuses due to safety and privacy concerns. It's best to assume it's not permitted unless explicitly stated otherwise.
For action shots, a telephoto lens is useful. For wider stadium views, a versatile zoom lens or a prime lens can work well.
Some events may have restrictions on professional camera equipment (e.g., large lenses, tripods). Always check the specific event's policy beforehand.
Golden hour (shortly after sunrise or before sunset) can provide beautiful lighting for stadium shots. During events, the action and atmosphere are the main focus.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider bringing snacks and drinks, though vendors are available. Ensure everyone has sun protection, as the stadium can get hot. For younger children, consider bringing portable seating or blankets if allowed, as stadium seating might not be the most comfortable for extended periods.
🏃♀️ Track & Field Enthusiasts
Beyond the Relays, the stadium hosts other significant events like the AAU Junior Olympics, offering a glimpse into the future of athletics. The 'Big Blue Oval' itself is an iconic feature, and experiencing it firsthand is a treat for any track and field aficionado.
🏈 College Sports Fans
The stadium provides a good viewing experience for these sports, and it's a chance to see the 'Mediacom Stadium' in action. It's a perfect outing for a weekend afternoon or evening, especially during the fall or spring seasons.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legacy of the Drake Relays
Many athletes have fond memories of competing here. For instance, Krissy Gear broke a 50-year-old record in the stadium mile, highlighting the enduring significance of the Drake Relays. The event draws massive crowds, showcasing the deep passion for track and field in Iowa and beyond.
Attending the Drake Relays offers a chance to witness elite athleticism in a historic setting. The stadium's 'Big Blue Oval' has been the stage for numerous legendary performances, making it a pilgrimage site for track and field enthusiasts.
AAU Junior Olympics: A Stage for Future Stars
The atmosphere during the AAU Junior Olympics is electric, filled with the energy of aspiring athletes and their supportive families. It's an opportunity for these young competitors to face the best, gain valuable experience, and potentially catch the eye of college recruiters.
Hosting this event underscores Drake Stadium's role in nurturing athletic talent from a young age. The stadium's facilities are well-suited to accommodate the large number of participants and spectators, making it a successful venue for this significant youth sporting event.
Drake University Athletics: Football and Soccer
The stadium's design, including the new Mediacom Stadium, is optimized for shared use, benefiting both Drake University and Des Moines Public Schools. This dual-purpose facility ensures that the stadium remains active throughout the academic year, providing a consistent venue for athletic development and competition.
Attending a Drake football or soccer game offers a more intimate sporting experience compared to the massive track meets. It's a great way to support the local university and enjoy a day of college athletics in a well-maintained stadium.






Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit