Going to Truist Park for an Atlanta Braves game or another event is an experience in itself, even before you step foot inside! The Battery Atlanta, surrounding the park, is a vibrant hub with dining, shopping, and entertainment, and it's where you'll want to start your early arrival.
So, how early can you go into Truist Park? It depends on what you want to do and what day it is! The general rule for gate opening times for Braves games is 90 minutes to 3 hours before first pitch, but there are some nuances that savvy fans exploit to maximize their pre-game fun.
Let's break down the ultimate guide to arriving early at Truist Park.
Step 1: Determine Your Goal for Early Arrival!
Before you even think about leaving your house, ask yourself: What's your priority for arriving early?
Option A: I want to maximize my time at The Battery Atlanta.
If you're all about soaking in the pre-game atmosphere, grabbing a bite, doing some shopping, or enjoying the live entertainment outside the park, then The Battery Atlanta is your oyster.
Option B: I want to be inside Truist Park as early as possible.
Maybe you want to catch batting practice, check out the Monument Garden, hit up the team store without the massive crowds, or simply get settled in your seat early.
Option C: I'm just here for the game, but don't want to rush.
You're not looking for a full day experience, but you also don't want to be scrambling to get to your seat right as the first pitch is thrown.
Once you have your goal in mind, you can plan your arrival strategy!
Step 2: Mastering The Battery Atlanta - Your Pre-Game Playground
The Battery Atlanta is an integral part of the Truist Park experience. It's designed for fans to arrive early and enjoy themselves before stepping into the stadium.
Sub-heading: Parking and Transportation – Arrive Stress-Free
- Parking Garages: Parking decks at The Battery Atlanta generally open four hours before first pitch for most games (weekends and weeknights). For weekday afternoon games (like a 1:30 PM Sunday game), some decks might open as early as 9:30 AM. Red, Green, and Purple decks often offer two free hours of parking. Be sure to check the official Braves website for specific parking lot opening times for your game day, as they can vary. It's highly recommended to pre-purchase your parking pass online to save time and ensure a spot.
- Accessible Parking: Accessible parking is available in designated lots like N29 and Red Deck. Shuttle services for guests with disabilities begin 2.5 hours prior to first pitch.
- Rideshare: Rideshare drop-off and pick-up points are available, making it a convenient option if you're not driving.
Sub-heading: Pre-Game Entertainment at The Plaza Green
The Battery Atlanta's Plaza Green is the heart of pre-game festivities. This is where the energy really builds.
- Live Performances: On Monday-Wednesday, live performances and appearances begin 2 hours before game time. For Friday-Sunday, these activities start 3 hours before game time.
- Mascot & Team Appearances: Look out for exciting appearances by the Heavy Hitters (drumline), Tomahawk Team, Home Depot Tools, and BLOOPER (the Braves mascot)!
- Other Attractions: You'll find a variety of restaurants, bars, and shops that are open well before the gates to the park. Consider enjoying a meal or Browse the stores.
Step 3: Truist Park Gate Opening Times - Stepping Inside
Once you've enjoyed The Battery, it's time to head into the ballpark itself. Truist Park has several gates, and their opening times can vary slightly depending on the day of the week and specific promotions.
Sub-heading: General Gate Opening Schedule (For Braves Games)
- Most Weeknight/Weekday Games: Generally, all gates open 90 minutes before first pitch. However, for certain gates like the Chop House Gate and Premium Gates (servicing the SunTrust Club, Delta SKY360° Club, and INFINITI Club), they often open two hours before first pitch.
- Friday Games: All gates typically open two hours before first pitch.
- Saturday Games: All gates usually open three hours before first pitch. This is your best bet for catching the most pre-game action inside the park!
- Sunday Games (1:20 PM or earlier): The Chop House Gate and Premium Gates open two hours before first pitch, while other gates open 90 minutes before first pitch.
- Important Note: Always double-check the official Atlanta Braves website or your ticket information for the most accurate and up-to-date gate opening times for your specific game. Promotions like bobblehead giveaways can sometimes lead to gates opening even earlier, and you'll want to be there for those!
Sub-heading: What to Do Once Inside Early
- Catch Batting Practice: Arriving early, especially when gates open 2-3 hours before, gives you a great chance to watch players take batting practice. It's a fantastic opportunity to see the team up close.
- Explore Monument Garden: Located on the Lower Level near Section 125, Monument Garden is a must-see. It features the 755 Sculpture made of Hank Aaron bats and the Braves Hall of Fame plaques. It's much less crowded if you visit early.
- Team Store: Get your Braves gear without fighting the throngs of people. The main team store is expansive, and arriving early allows for a more relaxed shopping experience.
- Grab Food and Drinks: Beat the concession lines! Enjoy a wider selection and a shorter wait by getting your food and beverages as soon as you enter. Truist Park is a cashless venue, so ensure you have a credit/debit card or use the cash-to-card conversion machines available.
- Children's Healthcare of Atlanta Park: If you're with kids, this 30,000-square-foot family space with kid-friendly activities is a great place to let them burn off some energy before the game.
- Chop House: Located in right field, The Chop House is a popular bar and restaurant with standing room that offers great views of the game. These spots fill up fast, so getting in early is key if you want to snag one.
Step 4: Tips for a Smooth Early Entry Experience
- Download the MLB Ballpark App: This app is incredibly useful. You can access and manage your mobile tickets, view interactive ballpark maps, and get real-time updates on game day essentials.
- Travel Light: For safety reasons, you may be subject to search upon entry. Truist Park has a clear bag policy, and prohibited items are strictly enforced. Small, single-compartment clutches or clear bags no larger than 5 x 9 inches are generally allowed. Exceptions are made for medical bags, breast pump bags, and diaper bags. Arriving with minimal belongings will expedite your entry.
- Stay Hydrated: Especially during warmer months, arriving early means more time in the sun. Stay hydrated, and be aware of Truist Park's policy on outside food and beverages (generally not allowed, with exceptions for sealed water bottles).
- Check for Promotions: Always check the Braves' promotional schedule! If there's a popular giveaway (like a bobblehead), fans will often line up extra early, sometimes even before gates officially open, to ensure they get the promotional item.
- Know Your Gate: Familiarize yourself with the gate closest to your seating section to minimize walking once inside.
By following these steps, you'll not only get into Truist Park early but also have a much more relaxed and enjoyable pre-game experience, whether you're exploring The Battery Atlanta or soaking in the atmosphere inside the ballpark!
10 Related FAQ Questions
How to check the exact gate opening times for my specific game?
You can find the most accurate gate opening times for your specific game by visiting the official Atlanta Braves website (
How to get free parking at Truist Park?
Some parking decks at The Battery Atlanta, such as Red, Green, and Purple, offer two free hours of parking. This is ideal if you're arriving early to enjoy The Battery but don't plan to stay parked for the entire game.
How to find accessible parking and services at Truist Park?
Accessible parking is available in designated lots like N29 and Red Deck. You can contact the accessible seating department at (404) 577-9100 (Option 5) or accessibleservices@braves.com for detailed information and assistance.
How to catch batting practice at Truist Park?
To increase your chances of seeing batting practice, plan to arrive as soon as gates open, especially on days when gates open 2-3 hours before first pitch (e.g., Saturdays).
How to handle bags and security at Truist Park?
Truist Park enforces a clear bag policy. Small, single-compartment clutches or clear bags no larger than 5x9 inches are generally allowed. Medical bags, breast pump bags, and diaper bags are exceptions. Arrive with minimal belongings to expedite the security screening process.
How to get around The Battery Atlanta before entering the park?
The Battery Atlanta is designed to be walkable, with a variety of restaurants, shops, and entertainment options. You can easily stroll through the area and enjoy the pre-game festivities on The Plaza Green.
How to pay for food and drinks inside Truist Park?
Truist Park is a cashless venue. You will need a credit or debit card for all purchases. Cash-to-card conversion machines are available behind Sections 118 and 133 if you only have cash.
How to find my way inside Truist Park once I'm in?
Download the MLB Ballpark app, which features interactive ballpark maps that can guide you to your seats, concessions, restrooms, and other attractions.
How to meet Braves legends before a game?
On "Alumni Sundays," you can often meet Braves legends at the Georgia Power Pavilion before every Sunday home game. Check the promotional schedule for specific dates.
How to ensure I get a promotional giveaway item?
For popular promotional giveaways like bobbleheads, it's highly recommended to arrive at the gates as early as possible – often when gates first open or even before – as these items are typically distributed on a first-come, first-served basis while supplies last.
