Welcome to Clemson University: Heart of the Upstate, Home of Champions
Nestled in the rolling hills of Upstate South Carolina, just a stone’s throw from sparkling Lake Hartwell, you’ll find Clemson University — a picturesque blend of academic excellence, Southern charm, and electrifying sports culture. Whether you’re visiting as a future student, loyal alumni, or a die-hard sports fan, Clemson promises an unforgettable experience.
The Campus Experience
Clemson’s campus is a postcard-perfect setting, with oak-lined paths, iconic red brick buildings, and views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Founded in 1889, this land-grant research university combines modern innovation with rich traditions.
- Enrollment: Approx. 28,000 students
- Mascot: The Clemson Tiger
- Colors: Clemson Orange & Regalia (purple)
- Notable Programs: Engineering, Business, Agriculture, Architecture, Nursing
Enjoy the South Carolina Botanical Garden, stroll around Lake Hartwell, or visit the historic Fort Hill Plantation, once home to John C. Calhoun.
Clemson Tigers Football: Powerhouse of the South
There’s college football, and then there’s Clemson Football — a roaring sea of orange, the crowd of 80,000-plus shaking the very ground of Memorial Stadium, affectionately known as “Death Valley.“
Stadium Facts:
- Name: Frank Howard Field at Memorial Stadium
- Capacity: ~81,500
- Nickname: Death Valley
- Game Day Vibe: Legendary tailgating, Tiger Walk, Howard’s Rock tradition (players rub the rock before running down “The Hill” to the field)
Awards & Accomplishments:
- National Championships: 3 (1981, 2016, 2018)
- Conference Championships: 20+ ACC titles
- College Football Playoff Appearances: 6 (including 4 National Championship games since 2015)
- Head Coach: Dabo Swinney (since 2008)
- Notable NFL Alumni: Trevor Lawrence, Deshaun Watson, DeAndre Hopkins, Christian Wilkins, Hunter Renfrow
Average Ticket Prices:
- Regular season: $85–$150
- Premium games (e.g., vs. Florida State, Notre Dame): $200–$350
- Season Pass: Approx. $500–$700
(Tip: Secondary markets like StubHub or SeatGeek may offer deals closer to game day!)
Don’t Miss:
- Tiger Walk: See the team arrive pre-game
- The Hill Run: Players descend the hill to the roar of the crowd
- Tailgating Scene: Southern hospitality, barbecue, and endless orange!
Clemson Tigers Basketball: Fast-Paced ACC Action
While Death Valley roars in the fall, Clemson’s energy rolls right into the winter with Clemson Basketball at Littlejohn Coliseum. Fast breaks, buzzer-beaters, and rowdy student sections make every game a thrill.
Littlejohn Coliseum Facts:
- Capacity: ~9,000
- Renovated: 2016 ($63.5 million modernization)
- Atmosphere: Intimate, loud, and high-energy
Men’s Basketball Highlights:
- NCAA Tournament Appearances: 13
- Sweet Sixteen Appearances: 4 (most recent: 2024)
- Notable Alumni: Horace Grant, Trevor Booker, Aamir Simms
- Head Coach: Brad Brownell (since 2010)
Women’s Basketball Highlights:
- NCAA Tournament Appearances: 9
- Sweet Sixteen Appearances: 2
- Current Momentum: Rapidly growing program with a strong home-court advantage
Average Ticket Prices:
- General Admission: $15–$30
- Premium/ACC Matchups: $40–$75
- Season Pass: Approx. $250
(Tip: Family-friendly atmosphere, great for kids, and often includes fan giveaways!)
Game Day Essentials
- Parking: $20–$50 (pre-pay recommended for football games)
- Local Eats:
- Esso Club: Legendary pre- and post-game hangout spot
- TD’s of Clemson: Sports bar and grill, walking distance to the stadium
- Hotels: Book early — rooms sell out fast for big games!
- The Abernathy (steps from campus)
- Hotel Tillman (football fan favorite)
- Merchandise: Head to Tiger Sports Shop or Clemson Variety & Frame for game day gear.
Fun Facts & Traditions
- Howard’s Rock: Given to Clemson by a booster in the 1960s, players touch the rock for good luck before every home game.
- Solid Orange Fridays: Wear orange on Fridays to show Clemson spirit!
- Tiger Rag: The fight song you’ll hear all over campus.
