Your guide to the Padres’ Petco Park (2024)

Check out our essential guide to America’s best ballpark, home of the San Diego Padres

"It's really difficult to imagine any stadium topping Petco Park — it's simply the best."

Those could well be the words of any fan who's had the pleasure of taking in a Padres game — or a pop concert, or a fireworks show, or college football's Holiday Bowl — at San Diego's beautiful downtown ballpark. But the quote happens to be from a sportswriter with USA Today, which has named Petco Park the nation's best MLB ballpark more times than any other stadium.

It's easy to see why: With stunning skyline views, proximity to the city's sparkling waterfront, awesome food and beverage options, inviting event spaces and much more, Petco is (as USA Today describes it) "the perfect ballpark."

Whether you've made the pilgrimage to the home of the Padres many times or are looking forward to your first visit, here's your complete guide to the Petco Park experience.

The Main Events

San Diego Padres

Opened in 2004, the 42,000-capacity Petco Park is first and foremost the home of the San Diego Padres— the city's MLB team since 1969, and the 2022 National League Division Series champs. The Padres organization operates the East Village ballpark, situated across Harbor Drive from the San Diego Convention Centerand just blocks from the bayfront.

Concerts

Before or after a Padres game, or when baseball's not on the schedule, Petco is an inviting place to take in a concert — and the park hosts a whole lot of them, both at Gallagher Square's Sycuan Stage and venue-wide for the biggest headliners. Music legends who've performed at Petco Park include the Rolling Stones, Paul McCartney, and the duo of Billy Joel and Sting. Small or big, the ballpark's shows are a great way to cap a perfect San Diego day.

Gallagher Square

The grassy expanses of Gallagher Square, which sits behind center field, serve as a perfect place for families to gather. And now the square is wowing Padres patrons with the results of a $20 million glow-up. The area takes in an expanded kids’ playground and play area, designed to accommodate a wider range of ages and abilities; its centerpiece is a soaring, 35-foot-tall baseball bat made of steel and wood. Gallagher Square also boasts afenced, off-leash dog park (in partnership with Petco, the ballpark’s namesake; an improved Play Ball Field, the ballpark's mini-baseball field for kids; the Tony Gwynn Terrace viewing deck and picnic space, not far from the beloved statue honoring the late, great Padres legend; and a general reconfiguration so that portions of the park can be open for public use more frequently on non-game days.

Kidsfest

Any time there's a Sunday home game, Gallagher Square hosts KidsFest, which starts two hours before game time and includes bounce houses, interactive games, face painters, balloon artists and more.

Holiday Bowl

The Holiday Bowl — one of the pre-eminent college bowl games in the country — is fast becoming a winter fixture at Petco Park. And not only is the ballpark neatly transformed into a bona fide football venue for the occasion, but the Holiday Bowl also includes a rousing postgame fireworks show.

Tours

Treat yourself to an insider's view of Petco Park by embarking on of the venue's daily or pregame tours — a great way to learn about the history of the park and the Padres. Daily tours stop at such points of interest as the Field Warning Track, the Press Box, the Cutwater Coronado Club and the Breitbard Hall of Fame. Pregame tours also offer the option of viewing Padres batting practice from an outfield vantage point. Private and educational tours as well as Spanish- and Japanese-language tours are also available.

Golf, Holiday Market and More

The ballpark hosts a full lineup of other great events throughout the year, from the wintertime Links at Petco Park — which turns the place into a nine-hole golf course — to the Holiday Market, an ideal yuletide shopping opportunity. Look for more must-sees at Petco here.

Getting There

Take the Trolley or the Train

Petco Park is perched directly next to Downtown San Diego's bustling Gaslamp Quarter, and just a short stroll from the Gaslamp station on the San Diego Trolley's Green Line — a great way to avoid the hassles and expense of driving and parking. Trolley service runs every 15 minutes or faster before and after most events, with added service for larger events. The trolley also connects at the nearby Santa Fe Depot with both the Coaster commuter rail and Amtrak trains, serving North San Diego County and beyond.

Parking

Limited parking is available around the ballpark's East Village location, including the Padres Parkade at Tenth Avenue and J Street and the parking garage next to the Hilton San Diego Bayfront, which is just across the pedestrian bridge from Petco. There's also a Tailgate Lot east of the park along 12th Avenue. Many of the lots are available to reserve with prepayment on the Padres' ticket site.

Other Alternatives

Rideshare or friends/family dropoff and pickup zones are located on the west side of the ballpark, at Sixth Avenue and K Street; and on the east side, at 10th Avenue and Park Boulevard.Bike racks are located at the corner of Trevor Hoffman Way and Tony Gwynn Drive, on J street at Eighth and Ninth Avenues, and across from the Gaslamp Entry Gate on Seventh Avenue.Lastly, consider taking the free FRED electric shuttle, which serves Downtown San Diego. Download the Ride Circuit app to book a ride.

Getting Tickets

The best source for both single-game and single tickets is the Padres' official MLB website. There are also ticket windows on both the west and east sides of the park.

Picking Seats

There's hardly anywhere in Petco Park that doesn't boast good sightlines, particularly given the park's relatively compact dimensions. For the best shade, reserve seats on along the third-base side, in sections such as Toyota Terrace. The sunniest areas are in the upper decks and behind right field. Petco also offers plenty of premium seating options in spots such as the Pacifico Porch.

Enjoying Food and Drink

With its local flavor and profusion of offerings, Petco Park's food and beverage lineup is rightfully considered among the best in baseball. Consult our handy Petco Park Grub Guide for details on what you'll find and where to find it.

Pre- and Post-Game Spots

Petco is situated right next to Downtown's vibrant Gaslamp Quarter, which bursts with great restaurants, rooftop bars, craft-beer favorites and more. Check out our guide to some top spots.

Meetings and Events

Petco Park is just the place to find your ideal event space, with options for groups from 10 to 10,000 people. Click here for more details on meeting and event facilities at the park.

Great Hotel Options

One of the best things about a visit to Petco is that you can stay just a line-drive's distance from the park. Among the excellent options in the area are the Hilton San Diego Bayfront, the just-renovated Hilton San Diego Gaslamp Quarter, the likewise re-envisioned Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina, the Margaritaville Resort, the Manchester Grand Hyatt, the Pendry and the Omni, which boasts its own walkway to the ballpark. Start here to pick your perfect place to stay.

Fun Facts

  • The very first baseball game at Petco didn't involve the Padres. It was a matchup between the San Diego State Aztecs and the University of Houston on March 11, 2004. SDSU's Aztecs won 4-0, and the attendance of 40,106 set a record for a college baseball game.
  • The first Padres regular-season game took place on April 8, 2004 — a 4-3 Padres victory over the San Francisco Giants.
  • The ballpark also hosted a basketball game between SDSU and the University of San Diego in 2015.
  • The light sandstone exterior of the ballpark is meant to evoke the dramatic seaside bluffs of such San Diego landmarks as Torrey Pines and Sunset Cliffs., while the white marine finish of the park's exposed steel structures is an homage to San Diego's nautical history.
  • The park's left-field boundary incorporates the historic Western Metal Supply building, which now houses seating areas, a bar and event spaces.
  • The Rolling Stones performed the first concert at Petco Park in November 2005.
  • The hit TV show "American Idol" held singing auditions at the ballpark in 2011.
  • The Padres' deep kinship with Mexico is celebrated with its colorful City Connect uniforms, inspired by cross-border culture. The team wears the uniforms during every Friday game at Petco Park.

View All Articles

LGBT

Great places to hike, bike, hit the beach and much more

From 70 miles of coastline to dramatic vistas for hiking, biking, or just chilling out, San Diego’s outdoor attractionsmake the Southern California paradise a must-visit any time of year. Spending time outside in San Diego can be as action-packed or low-key as you’d like, with plenty of spots to enjoy an al fresco meal or rooftop cocktail. GayCities offers tips for making the most of your San Diego vacation, with a special emphasis on fun in the sun.

Discover

Sports

Check out what makes the city a major player in baseball, soccer, hoops and more

San Diego's not just about the beaches (as beautiful as they are): We've got big-time sports, too! Check out what makes the city such a prime-time player in baseball, soccer, hoops and a whole lot more.

Discover

Sports

Beautiful new venue hosts sports, concerts and more

Your one-stop guide to the many ways you can enjoy sports & entertainment at Snapdragon Stadium.

Discover

Sports

Check out the new venue’s great bites and beverages

As the home of San Diego State University football, San Diego Wave soccer, San Diego Legion rugby and much more, the beautiful Snapdragon Stadium in Mission Valley is San Diego's newest hotspot for great sports and entertainment. And along with the venue's championship lineup of teams and events comes a winning variety of dining and drinking options — all with deep ties to San Diego. From stadium standards to local gourmet favorites, Snapdragon has the bites and beverages to make you stand up and cheer. Here's a roundup of top options.

Discover

Event

Jul 4, 2024

ThePort of San Diego Big Bay Boom July 4th Fireworks Show is back, promising another spectacular display over San Diego Bay. Fireworks will be discharged simultaneously from barges placed...

View this Event

Event

Jul 25 - Jul 28, 2024

Comic-Con International is the largest comics and pop culture event in the United States, attracting thousands of artists, celebrities and fans of comic books, movie memorabilia and all things related...

View this Event

Event

Aug 25, 2024

San Diego's finest annual cycling event across the Coronado Bridge and around the bay! Ride the bridge, Bike the Bay for the 17th annual ride on Sunday, August 25, 2024! Cruise around San Diego Bay...

View this Event

View More Events

Your guide to the Padres’ Petco Park (2024)

FAQs

Can I bring a vape into Petco Park? ›

SMOKING POLICY

Petco Park is a smoke-free facility. Cigarettes, e-cigarettes or any use of tobacco is not permitted.

How early should you show up to a Padres game? ›

All entry gates will open to guests 90 minutes prior to first pitch. Season Ticket Members have access to enter 2 hours prior to first pitch at two designated gates (Park Boulevard Gate and Home Plate Gate).

How do I claim free Jumbo Jack Padres? ›

POV: The Padres hit a home run & you get a free Jumbo Jack with the purchase of a large drink! Visit in-store or use code GOPADRES24 in the Jack app the day after the game 🍔 @Jack in the Box @Padres #jackinthebox #sandiegopadres #jackintheboxpartner.

Can I bring a water bottle into Petco Park? ›

Factory-sealed plastic bottled water that is still, clear and unflavored and that is one (1) liter or less are permitted into Petco Park. In addition, one (1) liter reusable water bottles (no glass) are permitted and must be empty upon entry into the ballpark.

Where can I pack my vape? ›

When packing for your upcoming trip, the e cigarette, vape or vape pen itself will need to be placed in your hand luggage. Any extra refills and e liquids can be packed in your hold luggage.

Does Petco allow vapes? ›

Petco Park is a smoke-free facility. For the safety and comfort of all, guests are not permitted to enter Petco Park with smokeless/chewing tobacco or vaporizers.

Can you bring snacks into Padres game? ›

Food: The San Diego Padres permit guests to bring food into Petco Park intended for individual consumption (not for groups of individuals) and should be consumed in one's seat. Outside food cannot be brought into any ballpark restaurant, club lounge, or suite.

Is Petco Park cashless? ›

Petco Park is Cashless

You cannot pay for anything with cash. Be ready and show up with alternative contactless payment methods because stadium vendors cannot accept cash.

How strict is Petco Park bag policy? ›

BEFORE YOU ENTER THE BALLPARK

For those bringing bags to the games, the team says: “Petco Park has an updated bag policy which will prohibit bags except for clutches and purses no larger than 5” X 7”, single-compartment clear plastic bags not exceeding 12” X 6” X 12” or infant and medical bags.”

Is the trolley free for Padres games? ›

The trolley is not free. A ticket costs $2.50 and a round-trip ticket costs $5 and lasts all day. Unlimited all-day passes cost $6.

What food deals do the Padres win? ›

every time the padres steal a base at a home game, you score a free taco with any purchase the next day! Choose from our Original Fish Taco®, Salsa Verde Shrimp Taco, Classic Chicken Taco and more. Which delicious taco will you score?

Do Padres get 25 percent off Petco? ›

If the Padres pitchers strike out 9 or more batters, Petco Vital Care members can get 25% off their entire purchase the next day at participating Petco locations. Plus, Petco Love will donate $500 to local animal welfare efforts.

How much is a hot dog at a Padres game? ›

While a hot dog at the home games of the Arizona Diamondbacks would set you back just 2.99 U.S. dollars, the same snack at a San Diego Padres game would cost a fan 7.75 U.S. dollars.

What to wear to a Padres game? ›

Go Casual Or Go 'Home'

In fact it's as casual as it gets. So if unsure what to wear, err on the side of comfort. After the game, all but the most fancy places downtown will let you in with a cap, shorts, and even a little mustard on your shirt.

Can I bring Starbucks into Petco Park? ›

The San Diego Padres permit guests to bring food into Petco Park for individual consumption (but not for large groups of individuals) as long as the items are consumed in the general seating or designated picnic areas. Outside food cannot be brought into any restaurant, club lounge, or suite.

Can you bring a vape into a ballpark? ›

Smoking and Tobacco

There is no exception for electronic cigarettes or any other type of smoking device, or for smokeless tobacco or any other type of marijuana or tobacco product.

Do Disney parks allow Vapes? ›

No Cigarettes / E-cigarettes / Vape Pens at Disney Parks

Smoking and vaping are no longer allowed in either Disneyland or Walt Disney World.

Do they check bags at Petco Park? ›

According to the official guidelines issued by MLB, all bags and backpacks are subject to inspection prior to entering Petco Park. All soft-sided containers larger than 16x16x8 inches will be not permitted on the premises.

Can you bring a vape in your personal item? ›

Will TSA take my vape out of my carry-on? According to the TSA, you can bring your vape or electronic cigarette with you when you travel on a plane, and you are actually only allowed to pack it in your carry-on, not your checked luggage.

Top Articles
Latest Posts
Recommended Articles
Article information

Author: Rob Wisoky

Last Updated:

Views: 5241

Rating: 4.8 / 5 (48 voted)

Reviews: 87% of readers found this page helpful

Author information

Name: Rob Wisoky

Birthday: 1994-09-30

Address: 5789 Michel Vista, West Domenic, OR 80464-9452

Phone: +97313824072371

Job: Education Orchestrator

Hobby: Lockpicking, Crocheting, Baton twirling, Video gaming, Jogging, Whittling, Model building

Introduction: My name is Rob Wisoky, I am a smiling, helpful, encouraging, zealous, energetic, faithful, fantastic person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.