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On matchdays, you have several options to reach St Mary's. From Southampton Central station, it's approximately a 30-minute walk to the stadium, or you can take the special shuttle buses that operate on match days from the station (for a small fee). Taxis are readily available but traffic can be heavy closer to kick-off. If driving, be aware that parking near the stadium is very limited and restricted on matchdays, so using the park and ride facilities at Itchen College or Southampton University is recommended. Many fans also choose to park in the city center and walk to the ground, which allows for a pre-match drink in one of the pubs along the route.

One of the most cherished pre-match traditions is gathering at one of the supporter pubs near St Mary's. The Chapel Arms and Kingsland Tavern are particularly popular with home fans, where you'll hear passionate renditions of "When the Saints Go Marching In" before heading to the stadium. Another tradition is walking down Northam Road (known as "Saints Way" on matchdays) with thousands of fellow supporters. Inside the stadium, listen for Prokofiev's "Dance of the Knights" (from Romeo and Juliet) which plays as the teams enter the pitch – this has been Southampton's entrance music for years and creates a stirring atmosphere. Arriving early also gives you a chance to see Sammy Saint, the club mascot, entertaining fans around the ground.

St Mary's offers a more intimate atmosphere than many larger Premier League venues, with excellent acoustics that amplify the crowd noise. The Northam Stand is where the most vocal supporters gather, creating a wall of sound, particularly when they start the famous "Oh When The Saints" chant. Southampton fans are known for their loyalty through both good and difficult periods, creating a passionate but typically friendly atmosphere. The stadium's design means even seats in the upper tiers feel close to the action. During south coast derbies or matches against big teams, the atmosphere intensifies significantly. St Mary's also maintains a family-friendly environment, with a dedicated family section in the Kingsland Stand, making it suitable for supporters of all ages.

The Saints Store at St Mary's offers several Southampton-specific souvenirs beyond the standard replica kits. Look for items featuring the club's distinctive red and white stripes and the unique halo emblem that references their "Saints" nickname. Popular unique souvenirs include miniature models of St Mary's Stadium, Southampton FC branded Hampshire tea, and merchandise featuring the club's mascot, Sammy Saint. For something truly local, items incorporating maritime themes that reflect the city's seafaring heritage are available. Match programs are also worth purchasing as collectibles. On matchdays, there are additional merchandise stalls around the stadium perimeter. For vintage or rare Southampton memorabilia, check out the club's memorabilia sales which occasionally feature match-worn items or limited edition commemorative pieces.

St Mary's offers some local specialties alongside standard stadium fare. The "Saints Burger" is a popular choice, featuring locally sourced beef. The stadium also serves Hampshire sausages in their hot dogs, reflecting the local produce. On colder matchdays, the Southampton Stew (a hearty beef and vegetable stew) is a warming option. For a sweet treat, try the "Saints Shortbread" which comes in the shape of the club badge. The stadium has recently expanded its food options to include more international cuisines and vegetarian/vegan alternatives. The Gasworks Bar on the stadium's south side offers a wider selection of food and drinks in a pub-like atmosphere. For the full experience, wash it all down with a pint of Staplehurst, a local Hampshire ale that's available at selected concession stands.