# Kansas City Royals: Kauffman Stadium Game Day Guide > Prices, parking, seating and transit for MLB games at Kauffman Stadium in Kansas City, MO. All figures are for the 2025 MLB Season and were last updated 2026-03-21. Source: https://visityourteam.com/mlb/royals League: MLB | Division: AL Central Data source: VisitYourTeam research, Royals.com, Kauffman Stadium official site ## Venue | Field | Value | | --- | --- | | Name | Kauffman Stadium | | Location | Kansas City, MO | | Capacity | 37,903 | | Surface | Natural Grass | | Roof | Open Air | | Opened | 1973 | | Coordinates | 39.0517, -94.4803 | | Official site | https://www.mlb.com/royals/ballpark | ## Game Day Cost Cheapest realistic single-person game day at Kauffman Stadium: **$32** ($12 ticket + $10 parking + $5 food + $5 drink). | Category | Lowest price | | --- | --- | | Ticket | $12 | | Parking | $10 | | Food item | $5 | | Drink | $5 | ### Ticket tiers | Tier | Price | Notes | | --- | --- | --- | | Outfield Plaza | $12 | Outfield general area beyond the fountains, the cheapest way in with views of the iconic water features | | View Level (400-Level) | $22 | Upper deck seats with a full-field view and the famous fountains visible beyond the outfield | | Loge Level | $45 | Mid-level seats with an elevated perspective and access to the loge-level concourse | | Field Box (Lower Infield) | $75 | Lower bowl between the dugouts with close proximity to the action and clear sightlines | | Diamond Club / Crown Seats | $175 | Premium seats behind home plate with all-inclusive food, drinks, and padded wider seats | ### Concession prices | Item | Category | Price | | --- | --- | --- | | Classic Hot Dog | Classic | $5 | | KC BBQ Burnt Ends Sandwich | Regional | $16 | | Pulled Pork Sandwich | Regional | $14 | | KC Strip Steak Sandwich | Regional | $18 | | BBQ Ribs Platter | Regional | $20 | | Chicken Tenders Basket | Classic | $12 | | Loaded Nachos | Classic | $11 | | Baked Beans | Regional | $6 | | Domestic Beer | Beer | $10 | | Boulevard Wheat | Beer | $12 | | KC Bier Co. Dunkel | Beer | $13 | | Soft Drink | Non-Alcoholic | $5 | | Water Bottle | Non-Alcoholic | $5 | ## Parking Kauffman Stadium is in the Truman Sports Complex off I-70, east of downtown KC. No practical transit - designed entirely for car access. Large lots with famous tailgating scene. | Lot | Price | Distance | Notes | | --- | --- | --- | --- | | Kauffman Stadium Lots | $20 | 0.1-0.5 miles | Large official lots at Kauffman Stadium in the Truman Sports Complex. | | Overflow Parking | $10 | 0.5-1.0 miles | Overflow lots near the complex. | | Limited Transit | $0 | N/A | No practical public transit to Kauffman Stadium. The complex is off I-70, designed for car access. | ### Parking tips - The tailgating in the lots is legendary. Arrive 3+ hours early with a grill and cooler. - Lots D and E have the most active tailgate scene. Regulars set up elaborate BBQ stations. - Parking never sells out for Royals games. No need to pre-book for most games. - Post-game traffic on I-70 can be heavy. Wait 15-20 minutes in the lots. - There is no meaningful public transit to the stadium. Driving or rideshare is required. ## Seating Kauffman Stadium seats 37,903 fans in a classic 1970s-era ballpark modernized with renovations. The signature feature is the 322-foot fountain complex beyond the outfield, visible from every seat. The lower bowl offers good proximity, and the upper deck provides panoramic views of the fountains and Kansas City sunsets. | Section | Price range | View | Pros | Cons | | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | | Diamond Club / Crown Seats | $125 - $300+ | Premium seats behind home plate with all-inclusive food and drink. | Best view at the K; All-inclusive food and drinks; Padded wider seats | Most expensive seats; Can feel corporate | | Field Box (Lower Infield) | $45 - $95 | Lower bowl between the dugouts with close sightlines. | Great proximity; Best traditional view; Easy access to concessions | Premium pricing for popular games; Baseline sections have angled views | | Loge Level | $25 - $55 | Mid-level with elevated sightlines and full fountain view. | Great balance of view and price; Full fountain view; Covered sections available | Farther from field; Some sections lack fountain views | | View Level (400-Level) | $15 - $30 | Upper deck with panoramic views of the field, fountains, and KC horizon. | Affordable with iconic fountain view; Spectacular sunset views; Great for first-time visitors | Far from action; Steep stairs; Fully exposed to weather | | Outfield Plaza / Craft & Draft | $10 - $25 | Standing-room and bar areas in the outfield near the fountains. | Cheapest way in; Social atmosphere; Closest to fountains | No assigned seats; Far from home plate | Official seat map: https://www.mlb.com/royals/ballpark/seating-map ## Getting There Kauffman Stadium is in the Truman Sports Complex, about 10 miles east of downtown Kansas City along I-70. The complex is suburban, no transit station and no walkable neighborhood. Virtually everyone drives or rideshares. **Driving.** From downtown KC: I-70 east to exit 8C (Blue Ridge Cutoff/Stadium). From the south: I-435 north to I-70 west. From the north: I-435 south to I-70 east. The complex is visible from I-70. **Public transit.** No practical public transit to Kauffman Stadium. The Truman Sports Complex is off I-70, designed for automobile access. Rideshare from downtown KC $15-20. Car is required. **Rideshare.** Uber/Lyft from downtown KC, about 15-20 minutes east on I-70. Drop-off on the west side near the main gates. ### Transit options | Option | Price | Notes | | --- | --- | --- | | KC Streetcar (Downtown only) | $0 | Free streetcar runs through downtown KC but does not reach Kauffman Stadium | | Royals Express Bus (Game Days) | $5 | Shuttle bus from Power & Light District downtown to Kauffman Stadium on game days | | Rideshare (from Downtown KC) | $20 | Uber/Lyft from downtown Kansas City, about 15-20 minutes east on I-70 | ## Tailgating There's no traditional parking-lot tailgating at Kauffman Stadium, the ballpark is in an urban setting without dedicated tailgating lots. Royals fans gather at Lots D & E (Central Tailgate Zone) and surrounding bars and restaurants for the pregame scene. The energy builds as game time approaches, with fans filling the streets and plazas near the ballpark. Check the team's website for recommended pregame spots and any official fan events. ### Rules - No grills, coolers, or tailgating setups are permitted in parking garages or structures near Kauffman Stadium. - Outside alcohol is not allowed in public plazas or the ballpark grounds. - The ballpark's clear bag policy applies at all entry gates. - No re-entry. Once you leave Kauffman Stadium, you cannot return. - Follow all posted rules in parking garages; they are for vehicle parking only. ### Best areas | Area | Description | | --- | --- | | Lots D & E (Central Tailgate Zone) | The heart of the tailgating scene with regular fans and elaborate BBQ stations. | | Lot C (Family Tailgate Area) | Popular with families who bring full setups, canopies, tables, and games. | | Near the Buck O'Neil Legacy Seat Gate | The gate honoring Negro Leagues legend Buck O'Neil. | ## Food & Drink Kansas City is a BBQ city, and Kauffman Stadium delivers. Burnt ends, pulled pork, and ribs headline the concessions. Boulevard Brewing Company's Wheat is the signature beer. Prices are among the most affordable in MLB. But the real food experience is in the parking lot tailgate. ### Nearby restaurants | Name | Cuisine | Price range | Rating | | --- | --- | --- | --- | | Zabiha Chicken and Sub | Restaurant | $$ | 4.8 | | KC Pickle Club | Athletic Field | $$ | 4.7 | | Dixon's Famous Chili Parlor | Restaurant | $ | 4.5 | | Hi-Boy Drive-in | Hamburger Restaurant | $$ | 4.5 | | Carmen’s cantina 2 | Mexican Restaurant | $$ | 4.4 | | El Pulgarcito Salvadorean Restaurant #2 LLC | Restaurant | $$ | 4.3 | | Machetes Authentic Mexican Food | Mexican Restaurant | $ | 4.3 | | La Bamba Restaurant and Cantina | Mexican Restaurant | $$ | 4.2 | ## Game Day Timeline Kauffman Stadium, 'The K', sits in the Truman Sports Complex alongside Arrowhead Stadium (Chiefs) about 10 miles east of downtown Kansas City. Opened in 1973, it features the iconic 322-foot-wide water fountain spectacular beyond the outfield wall. The setting is suburban, there's no walkable neighborhood bar scene. Instead, the parking lot tailgate IS the pregame scene. Royals fans are legendary tailgaters, BBQ, beer, and cornhole in the lots are the Kansas City way. Games run about 3 hours. | Time | What happens | Detail | | --- | --- | --- | | 3-4 hours before first pitch | Arrive at the Truman Sports Complex | Drive to the stadium lots. They open 3 hours before first pitch. This is when the tailgating starts. | | 2 hours before first pitch | Full tailgate mode | The lots are filled with BBQ smoke, cold beer, and Royals fans. The best tailgating scene in baseball. | | Gates open (90 minutes before first pitch) | Enter Kauffman Stadium | Walk through the main gates and take in the fountain view beyond center field. | | 60 minutes before first pitch | Watch batting practice | Head to the outfield sections near the fountains. The water features are the signature visual. | | 30 minutes before first pitch | Find your seat | Settle in with a burnt ends sandwich and a Boulevard Wheat. The Kansas City sunset behind the outfield is one of baseball's most beautiful views. | | First pitch | Play ball | Nine innings of baseball at the K. The fountains dance between innings and erupt for Royals home runs. | | 7th inning stretch | Stand up and stretch | Grab a final KC BBQ sandwich. The sunset over the Kansas City horizon creates one of baseball's best moments. | | Post-game | Continue the tailgate or head downtown | Many fans continue tailgating after the game. Or head to the Power & Light District for nightlife. | ## Lodging | Hotel | Per night | Distance | | --- | --- | --- | | Extended Stay America Select Suites- Kansas City - Stadium | $180 | 0.2 miles | | Hotel Lotus Kansas City Stadium | $180 | 0.3 miles | | Best Western Plus Kansas City Sports Complex Hotel | $180 | 0.4 miles | | Blue Bird Motel | $180 | 0.8 miles | | Sky Vu Motel | $180 | 0.9 miles | ## Typical Weather | Month | High (F) | Low (F) | Precipitation | | --- | --- | --- | --- | | April | 65 | 43 | 4.4 inches | | May | 74 | 54 | 6.0 inches | | June | 83 | 64 | 5.3 inches | | July | 87 | 68 | 5.1 inches | | August | 86 | 66 | 5.1 inches | | September | 78 | 57 | 4.8 inches | | October | 67 | 45 | 3.5 inches | ## FAQ ### What is the bag policy at Kauffman Stadium? Kauffman Stadium enforces a clear bag policy. Fans may bring one clear plastic or vinyl bag no larger than 12" x 6" x 12", or a small clutch purse no larger than 4.5" x 6.5". All bags are subject to inspection at entry gates. Diaper bags and medically necessary items are permitted after inspection. Leave prohibited bags in your vehicle to avoid delays at the gates. Source: https://www.mlb.com/royals/ballpark ### How early can I enter Kauffman Stadium? Gates at Kauffman Stadium typically open 1.5 to 2 hours before the scheduled game time. Arriving early gives you time to explore the ballpark, find your seats, and enjoy pre-game activities. Check the team's official website or app for specific gate times on game day, as times may vary for special events. Source: https://www.mlb.com/royals/ballpark ### Can I bring outside food or drinks into Kauffman Stadium? Outside food and beverages are generally not permitted inside Kauffman Stadium. Exceptions typically include one sealed, clear water bottle (up to 20 oz) and medically necessary items. There are a wide variety of food and beverage options available inside the ballpark. Check the venue's A-to-Z guide for the most current policy. Source: https://www.mlb.com/royals/ballpark ### How much does parking cost at Kauffman Stadium? Parking at Kauffman Stadium starts at $10 for overflow lots. Prices vary by lot location and proximity to the ballpark. Pre-purchasing parking passes through the team's official app or website is strongly recommended, as many lots sell out on game day. Arrive early for the best selection. Source: https://www.mlb.com/royals/ballpark ### Is Kauffman Stadium a cashless venue? Most concession stands and vendors at Kauffman Stadium accept credit cards, debit cards, and mobile payments. Some locations may still accept cash, but bringing a card or setting up mobile payment is strongly recommended. Check the team's website for the latest payment policy. Source: https://www.mlb.com/royals/ballpark ### Can I leave and re-enter Kauffman Stadium during a game? Kauffman Stadium does not allow re-entry once you have exited the ballpark. Make sure you have everything you need before entering. If you need to visit your vehicle, plan to do so before going through the gates. Exceptions may be made for medical emergencies at the discretion of ballpark management. Source: https://www.mlb.com/royals/ballpark ### What accessibility services are available at Kauffman Stadium? Kauffman Stadium is fully ADA-compliant and offers wheelchair-accessible seating, companion seats, accessible restrooms, and elevators throughout the ballpark. Assistive listening devices are available at the guest services desk. Service animals are welcome. Contact the ballpark's accessibility services or guest relations in advance to arrange any special accommodations. Source: https://www.mlb.com/royals/ballpark ### Does Kauffman Stadium require mobile tickets? Kauffman Stadium uses mobile-only ticketing for most events. Tickets are managed through the team's official app or authorized ticketing partner. Download your tickets to your mobile wallet before arriving, cellular service can be limited near the ballpark on game day. Screenshots of tickets are typically not accepted for entry. Source: https://www.mlb.com/royals/ballpark ### What items are prohibited at Kauffman Stadium? Prohibited items at Kauffman Stadium include weapons of any kind, outside alcohol, large bags or backpacks, umbrellas, noisemakers (air horns, vuvuzelas), laser pointers, professional cameras with detachable lenses, drones, and any items that could be used as projectiles. Strollers may need to be checked at guest services. Review the full prohibited items list on the team's official website before attending. Source: https://www.mlb.com/royals/ballpark ### Is smoking or vaping allowed at Kauffman Stadium? Kauffman Stadium is a smoke-free facility. Smoking, vaping, and the use of e-cigarettes are prohibited throughout the ballpark, including seating areas, concourses, restrooms, and clubs. Some venues have designated smoking areas outside the gates, but re-entry is not permitted. Plan accordingly. Source: https://www.mlb.com/royals/ballpark ### Is tailgating available at Kauffman Stadium? Traditional tailgating is not available at Kauffman Stadium. The ballpark is located in an area without dedicated tailgating lots. Fans typically enjoy the pregame scene at nearby bars, restaurants, and entertainment districts before heading inside. Check the team's website for recommended pregame spots and official watch parties. Source: https://www.mlb.com/royals/ballpark ## Provenance - Season: 2025 MLB Season - Last updated: 2026-03-21 - Last verified: 2026-03-25 - Canonical page: https://visityourteam.com/mlb/royals - Prices are researched per venue and represent typical published rates, not live market pricing.