Private patios, a buffet and cash bar: What Triangle college stadiums offer — for a price

Duke, North Carolina and N.C. State fans can now enjoy home football games in specialized outdoor patio seating, where food and drinks are served in a more private setting while still providing a traditional game day atmosphere.

N.C. State began operating its exclusive section, “Tuffy’s Terrace,” in 2021. Duke and North Carolina opened theirs for the 2024 season.

The concepts are all similar, but the prices and amenities vary significantly. Here’s what is included at each location.

NC State: Tuffy’s Terrace

The Wolfpack provides, arguably, the best value and variety of options with Tuffy’s Terrace. It features reserved rail seating along the north end zone of Carter-Finley Stadium, general admission standing-room only deck pass and reserved suites on either side of the main deck.

Reserved bench seating

The terrace seating includes a buffet, cash bar, lounge seating and additional televisions. Season ticket holders can add a season terrace pass. A limited number of single-game general admission tickets are available, starting at $90 per person. Additionally, fans can purchase a season pass at a discounted rate.

Standing room only access

Fans who don’t mind standing or spending the game on the lounge seating can purchase general admission passes. They have access to the amenities without reserved seating.

Private suites

The terrace includes two 30-person suites, which are available for rent to each game. It includes 30 tickets, three parking passes and access to the main terrace. Prices begin at $5,000 for the suite but vary by date and opponent.

The N.C. State athletics website includes an inquiry form for all three options, which provides fans with more detailed pricing information. The reserved seating and suites are wait list only.

UNC: Tar Heel Patios

North Carolina introduced its own outdoor suites this season in Section 131 of Kenan Stadium called Tar Heel Patios. The two patios provide private seating to groups of 14 fans. They are constructed on top of existing seating.

Fans receive tickets, five parking passes, food and drinks and an additional television.

Carolina previously installed a limited number of chair backs in the stadium and expanded the offering throughout Kenan. The Tar Heels hope to expand this, as well.

Initial photos posted to social media were met with criticism from Carolina fans and rivals.

Tar Heel Patio packages begin at $6,000 per game and are available by contacting the UNC Athletic Ticket Office at tickets@unc.edu or by calling 919-962-2296.

Duke: Devils Deck

Duke’s new space differs from the other two because it doesn’t have a reserved seating option except with a group reservation.

The Devils Deck most closely resembles the Tuffy’s Terrace SRO area, with all-you-can-eat tailgate food, “snack zone,” cash bar, non-alcoholic beverages and lounge seating.

Unlike N.C. State and UNC offerings, a Devils Deck pass does not provide entry to the game. It must accompany a game ticket.

Fan passes are $45 when purchased at least 24 hours prior to kickoff or $55 on game day. Student passes are $35 when claimed at the same time as their free game ticket.

Private upper deck spot

Groups of 15 or more can reserve a private area on the upper deck, near the DJ booth. It includes a custom welcome sign and video board announcement in addition to the other amenities. It is $45 per person for the general public or $35 for students and subject to availability.

Devils Deck passes are available online through the Duke ticketing website or by calling the ticket office at 919-681-2583.