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Dodger Stadium is Blue Heaven on Earth, but the game day experience can come with a big price tag.
Ticket prices, parking, food and drinks, it all can add up.
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May 20, 2021; Los Angeles, California, USA; A reserved parking sign for ÒMr. Big TimeÓ located in Lot B before the game between the Arizona Diamondbacks and Los Angeles Dodgers at Dodger Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
So let Dodgers Nation’s Noel Sanchez and Ava Brand walk you through how to get the best bang for your buck.
From parking secrets to saving money on water and food, there are still ways to have a great time without blowing your budget.
Tickets
At first glance, tickets seem like the biggest obstacle to staying under the $500 budget.
Fortunately, though, Dodger Stadium is the largest ballpark in MLB with a capacity of 56,000.
True, tickets like those at field level will run you a pretty penny, but if you are willing to sit in the top deck or in the outfield bleachers, you can save some cash and enjoy some silver linings as well.
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LOS ANGELES, CA – SEPTEMBER 24, 2020: Overall, shows the view of Dodger Stadium from the Top Deck section, where the Dodger Stadium Vote Center will be located. The vote center will be open for early voting for the general election, from October 30, 2020 to November 2, 2020, from 10am to 7pm and on Election Day from 7am to 8pm.. (Mel Melcon / Los Angeles Times via Getty Images)
For instance, the top deck offers panoramic views of LA, and the outfield seats offer a rowdier atmosphere and a chance to catch a home run.
So if you’re planning on walking around the stadium, consider spending less on your ticket and saving that money for other uses.
Alternatively, wait until just after first pitch to buy your ticket or buy a ticket to a promotional game. If you arrive early and get your hands on a special bobblehead, you could sell it online and make back a good chunk of your budget.
Transportation
This category can be pricey as well, though if you’re willing to plan ahead or walk a little bit, it can save you a lot of time and money.
The most convenient option is also the most expensive: parking at Dodger Stadium.
True, it’ll run you $45 at least, but it’s a quick and easy walk into Blue Heaven on Earth.
Getting out, though? That’s a whole new ball game.
“When the game ends, you’re not leaving,” Noel said. “You’re sitting in traffic — for a while. Like scroll-on-your-phone, question-your-life-choices-type traffic.”
So what’s the alternative? Park just outside the stadium in the $5 lots. It’s definitely a cheaper option and provides a quicker exit, but you will be forced to do a bit of a hike.
“Not a casual stroll either,” Noel said. “I’m talking full leg day before you even get inside. But hey, you just saved $40. That’s food, that’s a drink, maybe even some merch. And the walk down after the game is lowkey kinda nice.”
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Riders get dropped off at the Top Deck of Dodger Stadium prior to a game in front of the L.A. skyline in this undated image from LA Metro. (LA Metro)
A third option is to take the Dodger Express from Union Station. Parking is $10 — or you can take the Metro for $1.75 each way — but the bus drops you off at the Centerfield Gate.
The biggest issue, though, will be waiting in “a really long line” for the bus to return home,” Ava said.
“The real question is how much is your time — and your energy — worth tonight?”
Food and Drinks
Dodger Stadium has plenty of incredible dishes and treats, including the iconic Dodger Dog.
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That said, the prices can add up quickly, so how can you stay within your budget? Use the stadium’s clear bag policy to your advantage.
“Dodger Stadium allows fans to bring in food from home, everything from snacks to sandwiches to whole pizzas,” Ava said. “So make sure you maximize every inch of space in your clear bag, filling up on all your favorite snacks … This also means you won’t have to leave your seat as often and risk missing any action.”
“Make sure to also pack your own water,” Noel added. “A lesser-known hack: You can bring in a sealed water bottle, which frees your budget up for more fun drinks, like a Michelada!”
Merchandise
It can definitely be tempting to grab a new jersey or hat at the game, but be aware, you’re likely paying a bit more inside Dodger Stadium than you would otherwise.
“To save money on all merch, buying before the game is the smartest thing to do,” Ava said. “Not only does it make planning your outfit easier, you also avoid the in-stadium markups and could snag a sale online, so shop around in your area and check the official Dodgers website for the same products.”
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Oct 31, 2024; El Segundo, CA, USA; Los Angeles Dodgers Nike City Connect jerseys of Los Angeles Dodgers designated hitter Shohei Ohtani (17) at Dick’s Sporting Goods. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
Postgame activities
After the game, many fans are still buzzing with excitement. If you want to keep the party rolling, there are plenty of great bars and restaurants nearby.
Check out Dodgers Nation’s bar guide and Dodgers Nation food guide, and if your favorite spot isn’t on there, let us know what it is and why it’s the best!
Total price tag
So did Ava and Noel enjoy the ball game on their budget? You’ll have to watch the video to find out.
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