Ever wondered how to squeeze every last drop of fun out of your Truist Park game day experience? You're in the right place! Getting to the ballpark early isn't just about beating traffic or securing a prime parking spot; it's about immersing yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of The Battery Atlanta and catching exclusive pre-game action. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know to make the most of your visit, from gate opening times to hidden gems.
How Early Can You Get Into Truist Park? Your Ultimate Guide
Let's dive into the specifics of maximizing your time at Truist Park. The general rule of thumb is that most gates open 90 minutes before first pitch for regular games. However, there are key exceptions and special opportunities that allow for even earlier access.
Step 1: Understand the Standard Gate Opening Times (and Why They Matter!)
Before you even think about VIP experiences or special access, it's crucial to know the baseline.
1.1 The 90-Minute Rule: Your Baseline
For the majority of Atlanta Braves home games, including weekdays and weekends, the general admission gates to Truist Park will open 90 minutes prior to the scheduled first pitch. This gives you a good window to find your seats, grab some food, and soak in the initial atmosphere.
Why does this matter? Knowing this standard time helps you plan your arrival. If the first pitch is at 7:20 PM, gates will generally open at 5:50 PM.
1.2 Exceptions to the Rule: Sunday and Thursday Day Games
For Sunday and Thursday day games, the gate opening time can sometimes be different. While the 90-minute rule often applies, it's always a good idea to double-check the official Atlanta Braves website or the MLB Ballpark app for the most accurate times for your specific game. These can occasionally open later, around 60 minutes before first pitch, or earlier, depending on promotions.
Pro Tip: Always confirm the gate opening time for your specific game directly from the official Braves schedule or the MLB Ballpark app. This information is subject to change due to various factors like promotions, weather, or broadcast schedules.
Step 2: Unlocking Earlier Access: Beyond the Standard Gates
This is where the real fun begins for those who want to experience Truist Park without the initial rush!
2.1 The Batting Practice Experience: Get on the Field!
This is by far the earliest and most exclusive way to get into Truist Park. The Batting Practice Experience allows you to get onto the warning track of the field to watch both the Braves and the visiting team take batting practice from an incredibly close vantage point.
- When to arrive: Guests participating in the Batting Practice Experience should report to the 1st Base Gate three (3) hours prior
to first pitch. - Where to go: The 1st Base Gate is located on Battery Avenue, directly across from the Orange Parking Deck, near the Bobby Cox statue.
- What you'll see: You'll typically get to see about 45-60 minutes of Braves batting practice and then 15-30 minutes of the visiting team's batting practice.
- Important Note: A Batting Practice Experience ticket does not include a game ticket. You'll need to purchase both separately. This experience is often available for purchase in advance and is subject to availability. It's also usually not available for day games.
Why do this? If you're a die-hard fan, getting on the field during batting practice is an unforgettable experience. You'll be closer to the players than almost anyone else in the park, and it's a fantastic photo opportunity.
2.2 The Battery Atlanta: Pre-Game Hub
While technically outside the stadium gates, The Battery Atlanta is an integral part of the Truist Park experience and allows you to "get in" the vicinity much earlier. This mixed-use development surrounding the ballpark is packed with restaurants, bars, shops, and entertainment.
- Open Year-Round: The Battery Atlanta is generally open all day, every day, so you can arrive hours before the gates even open to the stadium itself.
- Pre-Game Festivities:
- Live Performances: On Monday-Wednesday, live performances and appearances often begin 2 hours before game time in The Plaza Green. On Friday-Sunday, these start 3 hours before game time.
- Dining and Shopping: Enjoy a meal at one of the many restaurants like Antico Pizzeria Napoletano, Superica, Shake Shack, or Walk-On's Sports Bistreaux. Explore shops like the Braves Clubhouse Store.
- Entertainment: Check out spots like Good Game, an arcade and escape room, or Topgolf Swing Suite.
- Parking Perks: Some parking decks at The Battery Atlanta (like Red, Green, and Purple) offer two free hours of parking. These rates typically go into effect four hours before the game. This means you can park early, enjoy The Battery, and then head into the stadium.
Why arrive at The Battery early? It's the perfect way to build anticipation for the game, grab a bite, enjoy live music, and avoid the last-minute rush into the park. It truly extends your game day.
2.3 Special Events and Promotions
Keep an eye out for special events and promotions, as these can sometimes influence gate opening times or offer unique early access opportunities.
- Giveaway Days: On days with popular giveaways (like bobbleheads), fans often line up much earlier than the standard gate opening time to ensure they receive the promotional item. While gates might not technically open earlier, the lines will start forming well in advance.
- Concerts and Other Events: For non-baseball events, gate opening times will vary significantly. Always check the specific event page on the Truist Park or event promoter's website.
Step 3: Strategic Planning for Early Entry
Now that you know when and how to get in early, let's talk about the logistics.
3.1 Check the Official Schedule and App
- MLB Ballpark App: Download the official MLB Ballpark app. It's your best friend for game day information, including gate opening times, parking, in-park navigation, and promotions.
- Braves.com: Visit the official Atlanta Braves website (
braves.com/ballpark
3.2 Parking Considerations for Early Arrivals
- Pre-Purchase Parking: If you plan to arrive significantly early, especially for the Batting Practice Experience, it's highly recommended to pre-purchase your parking permit at
braves.com/parking - Early Opening Lots: Some parking decks, like the Orange Deck, Delta Deck (Valet), Delta Deck, and N29, generally open four hours before first pitch for most games. This gives you ample time to settle in before even heading towards the gates.
- The Battery Atlanta Parking: As mentioned, utilize the two hours of free parking at certain Battery Atlanta decks if you're primarily aiming to enjoy the surrounding area before heading into the park. Be mindful of when the paid parking rates begin.
3.3 Bag Policy and Security Checks
- Be Prepared: Truist Park has strict bag policies. Familiarize yourself with them before you arrive to avoid delays. Generally, clear bags are preferred, and bag sizes are limited.
- Streamline Entry: Having your tickets ready on your phone (via the MLB Ballpark app) and being aware of prohibited items will help you get through security checkpoints more quickly. Even if you arrive early, security lines can form, especially closer to gate opening.
Step 4: Making the Most of Your Early Arrival
Once you're in, or even just in The Battery, there's a world of experiences waiting.
4.1 Explore The Battery Atlanta (Pre-Gates)
- Dining: Grab a pre-game meal at one of the many diverse restaurants.
- Shopping: Browse the official Braves Clubhouse Store for merchandise, or check out other retailers in The Battery.
- Entertainment: Enjoy live music at The Plaza Green, or try your hand at the various entertainment venues.
4.2 Inside Truist Park (Once Gates Open)
- Batting Practice Viewing: If you're not on the field for the Batting Practice Experience, you can still catch some of the action from the outfield seating bowls once the gates open (usually 90 minutes before first pitch). The Braves typically hit first, followed by the visiting team.
- Monument Garden: Located behind home plate, Monument Garden is a must-see. It features the Hank Aaron statue, historical artifacts, Hall of Fame plaques, and the 1995 World Series trophy. It's much less crowded if you visit right after gates open.
- Hope & Will's Sandlot (Kids Zone): If you're with kids, head to the Left Field Plaza for the Children's Healthcare of Atlanta Park. It has a kid-sized whiffle ball field, batting cages, a rock climbing tower, and more.
- Team Store: Get your Braves gear at the main team store located inside the park.
- Food and Beverage Exploration: Truist Park boasts an incredible array of food and drink options. Use your early entry to scope out what you want to try, from classic ballpark fare to unique Atlanta offerings like the Burgerizza! Remember, Truist Park is a cashless venue.
Step 5: Embrace the Atmosphere
Whether you're there three hours early or 90 minutes, the goal is to fully enjoy the unique atmosphere Truist Park and The Battery Atlanta offer. From the crack of the bat during batting practice to the buzz of the crowd, arriving early allows you to soak it all in without feeling rushed.
FAQs: How to Make the Most of Your Truist Park Visit
Here are 10 frequently asked questions, all starting with "How to," to help you plan your ideal Truist Park experience:
How to find the exact gate opening times for my game?
Check the official MLB Ballpark app or the Atlanta Braves website (
How to get on the field for batting practice? Purchase a "Batting Practice Experience" ticket in addition to your game ticket. You'll report to the 1st Base Gate three hours before first pitch.
How to get free parking at The Battery Atlanta? Utilize the Red, Green, and Purple parking decks at The Battery Atlanta, which offer two hours of free parking before paid rates go into effect (typically four hours before game time).
How to avoid long lines at security? Arrive as soon as gates open (or even earlier for special experiences), have your tickets ready on your phone, and be aware of and adhere to the ballpark's bag policy and prohibited items list.
How to see the Braves take batting practice? The Braves usually take batting practice first. If you have a Batting Practice Experience ticket, you'll be on the field. Otherwise, you can view from the outfield seating bowls once gates open (usually 90 minutes before first pitch).
How to find kid-friendly activities before the game? Head to Hope & Will's Sandlot (Children's Healthcare of Atlanta Park) in the Left Field Plaza once gates open. It offers various interactive play areas for kids.
How to see historical Braves artifacts? Visit Monument Garden, located behind home plate, which houses a Hank Aaron statue, team history exhibits, and the 1995 World Series trophy.
How to pay for food and drinks at Truist Park? Truist Park is a cashless venue. You'll need to use credit/debit cards or mobile payment options. Cash-to-card conversion machines are available behind Sections 118 and 133.
How to take a tour of Truist Park? Truist Park offers tours year-round, not just on game days. You can purchase tickets in advance online or at the main ticket office. Tours begin at the Right Field Gate.
How to enjoy pre-game entertainment outside the park? Arrive early at The Battery Atlanta. There are live performances, appearances, diverse dining options, and shops, with events often starting 2-3 hours before game time in The Plaza Green.