An SMU football weekend is about more than the game. It’s about the energy of The Boulevard, a leisurely pre-game brunch and the buzz that fills the neighborhood around campus before kickoff.
Across E. Mockingbird Lane from Southern Methodist University, The Highland Dallas offers an ideal home base for the weekend, just a three-minute walk from campus. For fans searching for hotels near SMU, its location makes it easy to settle in, step out and enjoy game day without the drive.
At SMU, game day has its own rhythm, and it starts on The Boulevard. Before home games, Bishop Boulevard comes alive with students, alumni, families and visiting fans, all gathering for one of the university’s biggest football traditions.
Begin the morning with brunch at The Reserve. Served Saturday and Sunday from 7 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., weekend brunch makes it easy to enjoy a relaxed morning before heading to the stadium. Led by Dallas native Executive Chef Andrew Bell, The Reserve at The Highland serves American cuisine with seasonal influences, complemented by handcrafted cocktails.
From The Highland, Bishop Boulevard and Gerald J. Ford Stadium are just a short walk away, allowing you to leave the game-day traffic and parking behind and simply enjoy the experience.
A few things to know before heading to the stadium: SMU’s clear bag policy allows clear plastic, vinyl or PVC bags no larger than 12 x 6 x 12 inches. One-gallon clear freezer bags and small clutch bags are also permitted. Medical and nursing bags are allowed after inspection.
For restaurants near SMU Dallas, you don’t need to venture far. The Highland keeps dining close to home throughout the weekend.
The Reserve serves dinner nightly from 5 to 10 p.m., featuring steaks and seasonal dishes. After the final whistle, make your way to The Reserve Lounge & Bar for cocktails, wine and beer. On Fridays and Saturdays, the bar remains open until midnight, offering an easy place to continue the evening.
Staying through Sunday? Return for brunch before heading home and make the most of the weekend.
With 204 guest rooms and suites, The Highland offers a comfortable retreat just steps from campus. Select suites feature separate living areas, while guests also have access to a heated infinity pool, hot tub, full-service spa and 24-hour fitness center.
During football season, the Mustang Season, Highland Style package adds a little more to the weekend, including a $50 food and beverage credit per night, a welcome amenity and 20% off spa services. The offer requires booking at least one day in advance. Blackout dates and other restrictions may apply.
For alumni, parents and visiting fans looking for hotels near SMU Dallas TX or hotels near Gerald J. Ford Stadium, The Highland makes game weekend wonderfully uncomplicated. Stay across from campus, walk to The Boulevard and arrive at the stadium without ever needing to get behind the wheel.
SMU has seven home games at Gerald J. Ford Stadium in 2026:
The November 14 matchup against Wake Forest is Homecoming and Senior Day. Kickoff times for the California and Wake Forest games are still to be announced, so check SMU Athletics when planning your weekend.
The beauty of an SMU football weekend is that everything can stay close and easy: wake up at The Highland, walk to The Boulevard and the stadium, then return for dinner, drinks or a quiet night in.
For your next SMU football weekend, book the Mustang Season, Highland Style package at The Highland Dallas.