This summer, the University of Minnesota is honored to host the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games. We are planning for nearly 100,000 USA Games athletes, supporters and volunteers on campus leading up to and during the June 20-26 events. This is about the same number of people on campus as a typical Wednesday during the school year.
Students, staff and faculty will be able to go about their day as usual — but should plan extra time for getting to and around campus. Most campus operations will continue as usual, but some places and traffic may be more congested.
This page is the hub for campus operations information and will be updated as needed.
Dining
- Retail operations will be open their usual summer schedules. Plan for extra time when visiting retail dining on campus.
- Catering services will be limited.
View the most up-to-date hours of operation on Dine on Campus.
Parking
- Parking contracts will be largely unaffected. If your parking contract location does need to change temporarily, Parking & Transportation Services will provide clear direction well in advance of the USA Games via email.
- Public parking options will remain available. Visit the Parking & Transportation Services News and Alerts webpage for the latest updates.
Transit
- University Transit will run its regular summer schedule during the USA Games.
- Additional shuttles are planned for athletes, supporters and volunteers, though you may noticed increased traffic on regular route buses.
- Metro Transit will run regular service during the 2026 USA Games.
- View University Transit and Metro Transit Rider Alerts for the most up-to-date impacts.
Housing
- More than 4,000 athletes, coaches and support staff will stay and dine in our East Bank housing during the USA Games.
- Others staying in 17th Avenue residence hall will notice increased activity during this time.
Last updated
Tuesday, April 14, 2026.