If you are planning to attend the 33rd annual Valero Alamo Bowl at the Alamodome, here is everything you need to know ahead of the game. The matchup features Texas Christian University (TCU) taking on the University of Southern California (USC) at 8 p.m. on Tuesday, December 30, broadcast live on ESPN. A special pregame show will air on KSAT Sports Now at 6:30 p.m.
This year marks TCU”s third appearance in the Alamo Bowl, where they hold a perfect record of 2-0. Meanwhile, this will be USC”s inaugural visit to this bowl game, coming in with a season record of 9-3, ranked No. 16.
Tickets for the event can be purchased online via Ticketmaster.
Pregame Celebrations
A variety of pregame festivities are planned for fans leading up to the big game. On Sunday, December 28, the Valero Alamo Bowl Fellowship of Christian Athletes Breakfast will take place from 7:30 to 8:45 a.m. at the Grand Hyatt hotel in downtown San Antonio. Local student athletes and coaches will join players from both teams for this event, sponsored by First United Bank. Registration details are available on the Alamo Bowl website.
Later that day, the Ricos River Rally will occur at 5 p.m. in the Arneson River Theatre along the San Antonio River Walk. This unique pep rally will feature bands from both schools and players traveling on river cruise boats.
On Monday, December 29, fans can attend the USAA Kickoff Luncheon, where ESPN”s broadcast team will host insights from coaches and team captains at the Marriott Rivercenter Ballroom at noon. Registration details for this event are not provided on the Alamo Bowl website.
Another exciting event is the Valero Alamo Bowl “Night Before” Party at Mad Dogs British Pub, featuring karaoke and live music from 7 p.m. to 2 a.m. on December 29. More information can be found on the event”s site.
The Fan Zone will welcome fans at The Espee, located at 1174 E. Commerce St., on December 28 from 3 to 7:30 p.m. This gathering is free and open to the public, allowing fans, alumni groups, and university bands to celebrate before the game.
Transportation Options
To ease access to the Alamodome, the VIA Metropolitan Transit Authority will provide Park & Ride services from four locations:
- Brooks Transit Center Auxiliary Lot — 3026 Sidney Brooks Drive, 78235
- Crossroads Park & Ride — 151 Crossroads Blvd.
- Frost Bank Center — 1 Frost Bank Center, 78219
- Stone Oak Park & Ride — 22139 U.S. Highway 281 North, 78258
Service to the Alamodome will commence at 5 p.m., three hours prior to kickoff, with return service available for one hour following the conclusion of the game. Parking at these locations is free, and round-trip fare is set at $2.60, with discounts available for students and military personnel. Passes can be purchased at Park & Ride locations or through the goMobile+ app, which accepts cash and credit cards.
For those opting for rideshare services, Uber riders can utilize the code HOLIDAYRIDE2025 for a $10 ride credit. The Alamodome features a designated drop-off and pick-up area for Uber users in Lot D, located at 638 Tower of the Americas Way, across from Interstate 37. Fans have found it beneficial to be dropped off at either 600 E. Crockett Street (north of the Alamodome) or 900 Hoefgen Avenue (south of the Alamodome).
PARKING AND STADIUM POLICIES
If you choose to drive to the Alamodome, it is advisable to avoid the same routes as VIA. During peak traffic hours, northbound Cherry Street will be closed at E. Cesar E. Chavez Boulevard. For those planning to park in Lots B or C, the Alamodome recommends accessing these lots by traveling southbound on N. Cherry Street from E. Commerce Street or E. Houston Street.
Traffic on U.S. Highway 281 and I-37 is typically congested several hours before the game, and attendees without an Alamodome parking pass should avoid exiting near the venue.
Nearby parking options include the Convention Center Garage at 41 S. Bowie St. and 850 E. Commerce St., Houston/Nolan Lot located under the Interstate 37 underpass, and the Martinez Parking Lot at S. Alamo and Martinez Streets.
Stadium Regulations
To avoid any inconvenience at the gate, it is essential to know the stadium”s bag policy. Approved items include small bags and clutches measuring 5.5 inches by 8.5 inches or smaller, clear fanny packs and backpacks not exceeding 12 inches by 6 inches by 12 inches, and a 1-gallon clear plastic storage bag. Diaper and medical bags may be permitted after inspection. A complete list of prohibited items can be found on the Alamodome website.
For further details on planning your trip, please refer to the Alamo Bowl”s official website.
