As a baseball fan, I always get excited when visiting Kauffman Stadium, affectionately known as “The K.” Home to the Kansas City Royals, this open-air stadium has been a crown jewel in Major League Baseball since 1973, hosting millions of fans over the years. If you’re planning a visit to this iconic ballpark, you’ll want to know everything about its gates and entrances to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.
In this article, I’ll be sharing some essential information on the various gates and parking lot entrances at Kauffman Stadium. From general admission parking to reserved and premium options, I’ve got you covered. Plus, I’ll dive into some of the policies and procedures to keep in mind during your visit. That way, you can focus on having a great time cheering on the Royals.
So, let’s get started on your Kauffman Stadium adventure! I hope you find this guide helpful, and most importantly, I hope you have a fantastic time watching baseball at this beloved stadium.
History of Kauffman Stadium
As a fan of baseball and a frequent visitor to Kauffman Stadium, I’d love to share some interesting historical facts about this fantastic venue. Kauffman Stadium, affectionately known as “The K,” has been the home of the Kansas City Royals since 1973. Before that, the team played at Municipal Stadium, which had a capacity of 30,296 between 1969-1970 and 35,561 between 1971-1972.
Located at 22nd Street and Brooklyn Avenue, Municipal Stadium was not only the home of the Royals and the Kansas City Athletics (1955-67) but also played host to the Negro Leagues’ Kansas City Monarchs. Kauffman Stadium is now an iconic part of the Kansas City sports landscape, with a present capacity of 37,903.
The stadium was initially named Royals Stadium, but it was renamed in 1993 to honor Ewing Kauffman, the Royals’ owner for the team’s first 25 years. Ewing Kauffman passed away on August 1, 1993, but his legacy continues to thrive in the stadium that bears his name.
One notable event in Kauffman Stadium’s history occurred on September 19, 1976, when Tom Poquette of the Kansas City Royals faced off against Chris Knapp of the Chicago White Sox. The Royals emerged victorious with a 6-5 win in a game that showcased the excitement that comes with a visit to “The K.”
Of course, the stadium has since undergone numerous improvements and renovations to provide fans with the best possible experience. From the iconic fountains to the state-of-the-art video board, every visit to Kauffman Stadium is memorable.
I’ve always found the history of Kauffman Stadium intriguing, and I hope this brief overview has piqued your interest as well. Whether you’re a Royals fan or just a lover of baseball, “The K” offers an experience rich in history and excitement.
Getting to the Stadium
I always recommend planning my trip to Kauffman Stadium in advance, as it helps me avoid last-minute inconveniences and ensures a pleasant experience. Kauffman Stadium is located at One Royal Way, Kansas City, MO. There are different ways to reach the stadium, including by car or public transportation.
When I choose to drive to the stadium, finding an updated parking map is essential. The parking lots open a few hours before the game, and they are conveniently located around the stadium. To enter those parking lots, I can use the following gates:
- Gate 1 Entrance
- Gate 2 Entrance
- Gate 3-4 Entrance
- Gate 5 Entrance
- Gate 6 Entrance
- Gate 7 Entrance
I also consider the stadium’s guidelines for parking, such as arriving early and following directional signs. Being familiar with the nearest highway exits can be useful, too.
If I opt for public transportation, buses are my best option. Kansas City provides several routes with nearby stops to the stadium. It’s always a good idea to check the schedules and routes ahead of time, ensuring I’ll arrive well before the game starts.
Once I reach the stadium, I find knowing the different entrance gates helpful, as it saves time and eases navigation. The Kauffman Stadium gates include:
- Gate A, held for stadium tours and open three hours before the game
- Gate B, located on the third base side
- Gate C, located on the first base side
- Gate D, opening two hours before the game
- Gate E, the main entrance on the home plate side
Whichever mode of transportation or entrance gate I choose, planning my trip makes it enjoyable and hassle-free.
Parking Details
Parking Costs
From my experience, parking prices at Kauffman Stadium may vary depending on the event, but you can generally expect to pay around $15-$20 per parking spot. Prepaid parking options are also available, which can be helpful during peak games and events. I recommend checking out SpotHero or the official Kansas City Royals website for deals and reservations to meet your budget.
Parking Locations
I’ve found several parking options near Kauffman Stadium that cater to different preferences and needs. According to the Kauffman Stadium Parking Map, there are multiple gates, numbered 1-6, providing access to various parking lots labeled A-N, as well as the Premium Entrance. If you’re coming from the East, you’ll want to take I-70 and Exit #9 (Blue Ridge Cutoff/Sports Complex), while if you’re coming from the West, take I-70 and Exit 7A at U.S. 40 Highway, then go east until you reach Stadium Drive or Blue Ridge Cutoff.
Here are some of the parking options I found:
- General Parking Lots: D, E, F, G, H, L, M, and N
- Reserved Parking Lots: A, B, C, and J
- Premium Parking Lot: P
Parking Policies
It’s good to be aware of the policies and expectations at Kauffman Stadium, so I’ll give you a quick rundown. Tailgating is allowed in designated lots, such as Reserved Lot H which is known as the “Tailgate Lot.” However, make sure you have the appropriate parking pass for tailgating.
Handicap parking is available, though I’d recommend checking the official Kauffman Stadium Parking Guide or reaching out to the Kansas City Royals for more information on locations and requirements. As for other modes of transportation, public transit options and rideshare services like Uber and Lyft also serve the stadium, giving you even more possibilities.
Gate Information
As a regular visitor to Kauffman Stadium, I’m excited to share some important gate information with you.
Gate Opening Times
From my experiences, I found out that gates at Kauffman Stadium usually open 1.5 hours before the game starts for Monday to Thursday games. For Friday to Sunday games, the gates open 2 hours prior to the game. Be sure to plan your arrival time accordingly to ensure a smooth entry!
Entry Restrictions
As a friendly reminder, I would like to mention some entry restrictions at Kauffman Stadium. They have a few security measures in place that we need to follow for everyone’s safety. Here’s a quick list of items that you should not bring:
- Bags larger than 16″ x 16″ x 8″
- Hard-sided coolers
- Glass bottles or cans
- Umbrellas
- Weapons or fireworks
- Professional cameras with lenses longer than 12 inches or video cameras
Remember, follow these guidelines and respect the security checks so we all can enjoy the game without any troubles!
Facilities and Services
Restaurants and Dining Options
At Kauffman Stadium, there are various dining options available for my convenience. These range from concessions offering traditional ballpark fares like hot dogs and pretzels, to more unique choices such as BBQ and artisan sandwiches. The stadium also offers a range of refreshments, including cold drinks, craft beers, and more.
Stadium Shops
If I’d like to purchase Royals memorabilia, several stadium shops are available throughout Kauffman Stadium. They offer a wide selection of merchandise, including hats, jerseys, T-shirts, and other apparel, as well as authentic collectibles and souvenirs. This ensures I find the perfect item to remember my visit to “The K.”
Fan Services
While at Kauffman Stadium, I can rely on the Guest Services team, which is committed to ensuring my experience is exceptional. They can assist me with various needs, such as answering questions, giving directions, and aiding with lost and found items. For additional help, I can also visit one of the Guest Services booths located throughout the stadium.
Accessible Services
Kauffman Stadium is committed to accommodating all guests, including those with accessibility needs. They offer accessible parking, entrance gates, seating areas, and restrooms for my convenience. Additionally, the stadium provides assisted listening devices upon request, as well as elevators and ramps for easy movement around the park.
Stadium Rules and Etiquette
As a frequent visitor of Kauffman Stadium, I’ve gathered some important information on the stadium’s rules and etiquette to ensure a great experience. In this section, we will discuss the prohibited items, smoking policy, and pet policy at the stadium.
Prohibited Items
While the excitement of attending a game at Kauffman Stadium is unbeatable, it’s important to remember that there are some items that should be left at home. For everyone’s safety and enjoyment, please refrain from bringing the following items:
- Alcoholic beverages or illegal drugs
- Weapons of any kind, including guns and knives
- Backpacks, hard-sided coolers or briefcases
- Glass bottles or cans
- Noisemakers such as air horns or whistles
- Inflatables, beach balls, or balloons
- Laser pointers
- Large banners or signs
- Anything that could obstruct other fans’ view
As always, make sure to check the Kansas City Royals official website for the most up-to-date list of prohibited items, as it can change from time to time.
Smoking Policy
In the interest of providing a family-friendly environment, Kauffman Stadium has a strict no-smoking policy. This policy includes the use of e-cigarettes and vaping devices. If you need to smoke, there are designated smoking areas located outside the stadium. Be sure to check with stadium staff for the specific locations during your visit.
Pet Policy
When it comes to pets, I must say that Kauffman Stadium only permits service animals specifically trained to assist people with disabilities. Emotional support animals are not allowed. Make sure your service animal has proper identification, and be prepared for stadium staff to ask questions to determine the nature of your service animal’s assistance. Keeping these stadium rules and etiquette in mind will help ensure a fantastic day out at Kauffman Stadium.
Special Events at the Stadium
Guided Tours
I always enjoy taking a guided tour when visiting a new stadium. At Kauffman Stadium, they offer various guided tour options, allowing visitors to get an up-close and personal view of the ballpark. During the tour, I can learn about the stadium’s history, see the different seating areas, and even step onto the field. It’s a great way to get a behind-the-scenes look at this beautiful baseball stadium.
Private Events
In addition to the regular MLB games, Kauffman Stadium also hosts private events. I think it’s a perfect venue for special occasions like corporate meetings, parties, and even weddings. With its amazing views of the field and the Kansas City skyline, it creates a unique atmosphere that you and your guests will definitely enjoy. The stadium offers various event spaces and catering options to make any private event a memorable experience.
Conclusion
As a fan of the Kansas City Royals, I’ve found that visiting Kauffman Stadium, affectionately known as “The K,” is always an enjoyable experience. The stadium, which has been home to the Royals since 1973, is known for its signature look and has hosted over 89 million fans.
When it comes to entering the stadium, there are multiple gates for fans to use. It’s important to plan ahead and know which gate is most convenient for you based on your seating location and the parking lot you choose.
Speaking of parking, Kauffman Stadium offers various lots for event attendees. Make sure to secure a parking pass beforehand and familiarize yourself with the lot layout to make your visit stress-free.
Finally, remember that Kauffman Stadium has a range of policies and procedures in place to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all guests. Familiarize yourself with these guidelines before attending a game or event at Kauffman Stadium, to ensure a smooth and memorable outing.
I hope this guide has provided you with helpful information for your next visit to Kauffman Stadium, and that you enjoy cheering on the Royals as much as I do!
