For 85 years the Yankees called Yankee Stadium home, but in 2008 the bombers moved across the street. Moving from "the house that Ruth built" to "the house that George built", it was a tough move for fans that knew the old stadium inside and out. As Yankee fans and tourists around the world come see the new stadium every year, here is your all access pass to the In's and outs of Yankee Stadium.
Getting to the stadium
If you live in NYC or one of the five boroughs it makes the most sense to take Mass Transit. You can take the B,D or 4 train, or take the bus, the Bx6 and Bx13 stops at Yankee Stadium. With the new stadium opening the city has also set up a Metro North stop. For more detailed information check out the Yankees site.
If you plan to drive to the game, be warned, the area can be heavily congested right before game time. If you plan to drive arrive early and check out the new stadium. If you plan to get there just before the first pitch, be aware you may miss an inning or two. For the best directions from different locations, click here.
Something to watch for, in past seasons their have been water taxis from Manhattan that are available for free. Something that could be nice and enjoyable on a cool summer night.
Parking:
Up until the final season at the old Yankee Stadium, parking was hard to come by. Lots would fill up quick, and if you weren't there early, you were screwed. But in recent years parking has become much easier, but also more expensive. In 2011, you can expect to pay $35 to park in a secure garage around the stadium. In some cases that might be cheaper for a family of four then to take mass transit depending on where you live. My personal lot of choice is the River Avenue garage, its located right across from gate 8 of the stadium, and is easy to exit after the game. After the game, I always advice to wait a bit before heading out of any garage or lot, if you wait a bit the easier it will be to exit.
Street Parking: The area around Yankee Stadium gets a bad name, but I would still be leery of parking on the street. To begin it will be difficult to find a spot in the immediate area, but if you wander into the side streets you will be able to find a spot. With that be careful, if you have a nice car, I would recommend coughing up the $35 bucks. That said I do know of people who swear by parking on the street. My best advice is if you insist on doing it, try it out during a day game and do it at your own risk.
The area around the stadium: This is no longer the 1970's, the Bronx is no longer burning. In fact the surrounding area is one of the safest on game night, with tons of NYPD officers and security around the area. It is still a rough area on a non game night, but no need to fear for your life unless you plan to linger around till the wee hours of the morning.
Tickets:
The Yankees have tons of season ticket holders, that may hurt or help you. It can help because you can often find season ticket holders on forums, selling for face value or below. It can hurt because the Yankees don't have best selection of seats available. If you want to buy tickets directly from the Yankees and Ticketmaster, expect to pay some expensive seats and pay service fee's. You can always go the Stubhub or any other secondary market route, again expect to pay service fee's, but you will be able to look over an entire map and choose the exact seats you want. You can also go the Craigslist way, but that may not always be the most secure.
A little tip: as long as you can wait, the sooner the game, the cheaper prices will be. Even for big games like the Mets or Red Sox, great deals can be had just hours before the game
Watch out for counterfeit tickets: Its been done forever, but with the change in technology be aware. The newest way of fake tickets is the print at home tickets. They can be printed out numerous times or digitally remastered if you are into computers. So stick with hard tickets, unless you know the source of the print at home tickets is reliable.
The stadium by each seating level:
Once the bombers moved across the street, they also changed the names of each level. The sight lines have also changed a bit.
Field Level: Some of the most expensive seats in the stadium are on this level, but with the extra money you get great sight lines, cushioned seats and waiter service. The seats all are angled towards the action, this level also has the best food and the most food options. The back rows of many of these sections are covered from the elements, thanks to the overhang from the Main section above it. But the bad part about the last few rows (Most sections have between 24-30 rows, check your section for best information) is that fans will stand behind you. This after a while can get very annoying, but security is usually around to push them back.
Overall if you have the money, sit field level. If not don't worry, because the main level has some better views. I am not a fan of buying field level seats in the outfield, that are in fair territory since Bleacher seats can be had for $15 while field level seats can cost $95 in those area.
Main Level: This is the second deck, the seats are still pricey but more affordable (by Yankee Stadium terms at least). Of all the concourses, the main seems to be the smallest and have the most food and souvenir stands that can get in the way. The sight lines from the Main are great, especially the seats between the bases that are well worth the money. Even the outfield views are nice, and are the better bang for your buck compared to the Terrace Level that hangs above yet cost only a few bucks less.
If you are looking to catch a foul ball this is your best section, this is also the best section to catch a game. The view is perfect, and the overhang of the upper deck gives you shade in the back rows.
*** Please note that in the back rows of the Field and Main levels, most sections have TV's set up, in case the angle prevents a full view of the scoreboard. The TV's will show replays that the big screen does not**
Terrace Level: Part of the upper deck, but the lower part of the upper deck. These seats offer nice views, but are pushed back from the action. In fact compared to the old Yankee Stadium, the entire upper deck no longer hangs over the field of play, and has been pushed back. The Terrace and Grandstand share a concourse that is open to the elements, so when it rains you can no longer run to the concourse for coverage. This level also has the worst food, and the longest lines. Just like the concourse the Terrace seats do not have any overhang, so expect sunburn during day games and to get wet when it rains.
The view from the Terrace is nice, but not worth the premium price the Yankees have them listed at. I would recommend either spending the extra money and sit in the Main or save the cash (since you will be spending much of it at the new ballpark) and sit in the Grandstand.
Grandstand: The highest level of Yankee Stadium, is now further pushed back. The view from the cheap seats are great as long as you stay in between the bases, the further towards the outfield you go, the view gets worse. The frieze (don't worry it won't block your view) hangs over these seats so from about row 5 and on you won't have to worry about the sun, you may have to worry about the rain if it is windy. Behind the last row of seats (row 14) is now open air, this is great during the summer and gives a much needed breeze, but is awful in the early part of the season since it will be extra cold.
The Grandstand between the bases is a bargain by Yankee Stadium terms, but the outfield seats make you feel far away from the action.
Bleachers: No longer are the days where if you had a bleacher seat you were confined to just the Bleachers, now you can walk all over the place. So if you want to do the roll call with the bleacher creatures head to the right field bleachers (Section 203 to be exact). The view from the bleachers are great as long as they are not the obstructed view seats that cost $5. The right field bleachers have all the fame of the creatures, but the left field side is just as good. The bleacher cafe in center field makes for a great spot to grab some food and watch the games.
Bleachers are the best bang for your buck, but remember they are bleachers so they have no back and can tend to get rowdy, so don't wear another teams jersey. You can also now purchase beer, even if the beer may cost as much as the ticket.
Cafe seating and standing room: Cafe seats are located on the field level, they are steel ledge and a steel chair. Maybe not the most comfortable but a nice view if you can get a section close to the infield. The only issue is that you will have people standing behind you the entire game, and if security is not paying attention, sometimes fans will try and swipe your seat.
The standing room tickets are only issued when all the other seats have sold out. So you are able to get these seats for Opening Day, against the Mets, Red Sox or if the Yanks are battling it out in October. You don't actually get a seat, but you are sold a section where you are suppose to stand, but it is not enforced.
Handicap seats: The Yanks now have a ton of handicap seats in all different sections. They even sell them to those who are not handicap, and allow for you to sit in those seats as long as you are not taking away a seat from someone who is handicap.
Attractions:
The Great Hall: Located right when you walk into gate 6, the great hall has banners of old Yankee greats, along with plenty of places to spend money and get something to eat. At the end of the great hall stands the ticket windows, team store and a photo center.
Monument Park: Called Monument cave by some, who hate the fact that Monument Park has been buried under the Mohegan Sports bar. Still one of the more unique parts of the stadium, the park has gained alot of attention in recent years so expect a very long line. Make sure you rub Ruth's head like Roger Clemens did back in the day. But remember the park will close 45 minutes before first pitch.
The Yankee Museum: My favorite park of the new stadium is the Yankee museum, located on the Main Level in right field the Yankee museum houses Thurman Munsons locker, Championship trophies and much more. Make sure to check out the autographed ball wall, where their is a ball signed by every single Yankee. the only crime is that the Yankees did not make the museum bigger.
Fastest Lines into the stadium:
Want to make sure you get the free giveaway, but get into the stadium quick? Well head to gate 2 or 8. Gate 2 is the left field gate, and gate 8 is the center field gate, both are the furthest from the subway. Gate 6 is usually the gate with the longest wait, because it is the closest to the subway and when you enter you are in the great hall.
Leaving the stadium is much easier and you are able to get out of each gate quickly.
Stadium Food:
Get that wallet ready, but unlike at the old stadium this time the food is worth it. The variety of food is great from the traditional hot dogs, cracker jacks and peanuts to Lobel steak sandwiches, frickles and a fresh fruit stand. Some of the items that should be tasted are the garlic fries and Lobels steak sandwich. If you look to fill your tummy, yet still keep it affordable then get the sliders (chicken,buffalo chicken and burgers) and fries for just $10 (stands located in the upper deck all the way in left field and field level between first and right field).
The Yankees now sell Pepsi products, along with Gatorade at most stands. If beer is your thing, have a deep pocket (most beers cost north of $10), but different types are plentiful. Also check out the beers of the world stand on the field level.
For those who want a sit down dinner check out the Hard Rock Cafe and NYY Steak.
Outside Food: Who says you can't bring in your own food and drinks? The Yankees don't promote it (and why would they) but you are allowed. They say that you can bring bottled water in, and I have never had an issue with that. It does list on the Yankees site that you can only bring water but I have brought in soda, Gatorade and Vitamin Waters numerous times and never been denied.
If grabbing a bite outside the stadium is your thing, just walk along River Ave. You have all different bars, along with hot dog and gyro stands also a McDonald's that is one of the cleanest ever. If you want to venture a bit further check out New Stadium Pizza on 161st street for some real Bronx pizza. For an even more detailed look check out Bald Vinny's post.
Souvenirs:
The Yankees have all the team merchandise in the world at the stadium, but the prices are expensive. Expect much of the same on River Ave, although a good deal can be found from some of the stores if you look. Check out Bald Vinnys stand on River Ave across from the old stadium and buy an affordable and unique shirt. If your still looking for cheap Yankees merchandise then head to Modells in Manhattan, for some of the same items they sell at Yankee Stadium for a cheaper price.
Security:
Security is all over the place so don't think about starting a fight. Security can be very strict and can be very rude at times over the smallest things inside the stadium.
Outside the stadium the security that will check your bag, can be hit or miss. Sometimes the security guard will be strict about items while others are not. If one guard says no, then simply get off line and try a different gate or guard, you will most likely be able to get in if you keep trying.
Worried over your safety and don't want to go and tell a guard? Text 69900 and a Yankee assistant will come to your rescue.
Bags: Straight from the Yankees site : "Soft-sided bags (e.g., diaper bags, small backpacks and small purses) are permitted. However, in accordance with Major League Baseball security regulations, any bag larger than 16 inches by 16 inches by 8 inches will not be permitted into Yankee Stadium. Briefcases, coolers and hard-sided bags and containers are also not permitted. All bags will be thoroughly inspected before they are permitted into Yankee Stadium. Bag-size bins will be used at inspection points, and bags and their contents must fit without assistance, modification or adjustment. The Yankees reserve the right to inspect any bags, clothing or other articles prior to entry into Yankee Stadium and prohibit entry or require removal of any items at the sole discretion of the Yankees. NOTICE: All persons specifically consent to and are subject to metal detector and physical pat-down inspections prior to entry. Any person or property that could affect the safety of Yankee Stadium occupants/property shall be denied entry."
Smoking: You would think that with Hank Steinbrenner as owner you could smoke inside the stadium. But this isn't the 1980's anymore. Throughout Yankee Stadium there is a strict no smoking policy, but you can exit the stadium through the Hard Rock Cafe and stand on the patio and smoke.
Re-entry:Once you leave fuggetabout coming back inside. But Ross over at NYYStadiumInsider, thinks he may have found a way in and out.
"If you go to Gate 6 via the Great Hall, you can wait in line to enter the Hard Rock Cafe, which is open to the public. Since it is open to the public, the Yankees have to stamp your ticket on the way in, allowing you re-entry to the stadium once you are done with your meal. We haven't personally tried this, but we see no reason why you wouldn't be able to utilize this loophole to leave the stadium completely, and then for re-enter. Sure, the line is likely to be a bit longer to exit via the Hard Rock Cafe, but isn't it a better option than rioting outside of the Stadium when they don't let you back in?"
Bathrooms: Remember those days of sneaking inside the exit door because the line was too long? Well those days are over at the new stadium. The Field Level has the nicest and largest bathrooms, but even after the last out of a close game the lines are not long thanks to plenty of different bathrooms throughout the stadium.
Elevators: In the great hall, they're are eight elevators that take fans to the Main and Terrace/Grandstand levels. Also at gate 8, is an elevator for disabled fans only.
Where the Yankees exit: If you want to see your favorite pinstriped players enter and exit the stadium, then go either between gates 6 and 8 on River Avenue or between gates 2 and 4 on the Macombs Dam Bridge side. Don't expect to get an autograph, but guys like Nick Swisher, Brian Cashman, Michael Kay and Tori Hunter have been known to stop and sign.
**For any other questions send your e-mails to soxsuxyanks@yahoo.com or send a tweet @NYMoot **
