The Ultimate Parking Tips for Great American Ball Park in Cincinnati, Ohio
The Great American Ball Park is the beloved home of the Cincinnati Reds, a Major League Baseball team. This picturesque stadium attracts fans from all over Ohio and beyond. If you’re planning a visit, it’s crucial to have a solid parking plan in place for a stress-free experience on game day. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll provide you with all the necessary information to make the most of your parking options. Whether you prefer official parking lots, third-party alternatives, or even free parking, we’ve got you covered. Plus, we’ll share essential tips to save you time and money. Get ready for an unforgettable visit to the Great American Ball Park!
Official Great American Ball Park Parking Lots
When it comes to parking options, the official lots associated with Great American Ball Park are always a reliable starting point. These lots provide convenient access to the stadium gates and offer multiple exit options. Located between I-71 and Barry Larkin Way, the park is well-connected to the surrounding area. Here are the main official parking lots:
Main Parking Lots
Great American Ball Park offers a total of eight official parking lots. To get a clear understanding of their layout, refer to the map below. While the Central Riverfront Garage and Central Riverfront Garage West are closest to the stadium, the East Garage is generally the most affordable option. You can prepay for parking at any of these three garages by visiting the Cincinnati Reds’ official website. It’s advisable to reserve your spot in advance, as popular games tend to sell out quickly.
EV Parking at Great American Ball Park
If you drive an electric vehicle, you’ll be pleased to know that the East Garage features a FLO Charging Station. However, charging spots are assigned on a first-come, first-served basis, so make sure your vehicle is adequately charged before arriving.
Accessible Parking Spaces
Both the Central Riverfront Garage and the East Garage offer accessible parking spaces on a first-come, first-served basis. These lots are excellent choices if you require accessible parking. Other lots in the vicinity also have accessible spots available.
Third-Party Parking Options at Great American Ball Park
If you prefer exploring alternative parking options, SpotHero is an excellent resource for finding affordable parking near Great American Ball Park. Using the SpotHero widget below, you can easily book a parking spot in advance. Located north of the stadium, these third-party lots provide ample inventory for your desired date. One highly recommended lot is the Mabley Place Garage at 410 Race Street. With a walk of less than 10 minutes, you’ll have the advantage of parking indoors. If Mabley Place is full, consider the 305 Lot on 5th Street, which is just a short distance away from the stadium.
Free Parking at Great American Ball Park
In certain Cincinnati neighborhoods, parking meters are only enforced until 6 pm. This means you might be able to park for free after the meters are no longer in effect. However, keep in mind that these locations will likely be quite a distance from the park. If you choose this option, you can utilize the city’s bike share program or the public streetcar to complete your journey. To learn more about the bike share program, refer to the FAQs at the bottom of this page. We’ll also discuss the streetcar in the next section.
Public Transportation and Ridesharing to Great American Ball Park
Great American Ball Park is easily accessible via public transportation and rideshare services. Consider the following options for a convenient and hassle-free journey:
Cincinnati Bell Connector
The Cincinnati Bell Connector streetcar system is an excellent choice for reaching the park. With 18 stations across the city, it provides a convenient way to navigate Cincinnati. The key station for accessing Great American Ball Park is Station 1 at The Banks. This station offers direct access to the stadium, making your arrival and departure a breeze. The best part? The Cincinnati Bell Connector is completely free to use. Take advantage of this cost-saving option by parking in a more affordable area and taking a free ride to the park.
Rideshare Services
Popular rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are also convenient options for transportation to Great American Ball Park. Simply request a ride through the app, and you’ll find plenty of pickup and drop-off locations near the venue. Planning your transportation in advance guarantees a smooth and enjoyable visit to the park.
Bars and Restaurants Near Great American Ball Park
Between Great American Ball Park and nearby Paycor Stadium, you’ll find a vibrant district brimming with bars and restaurants. Connecting these two destinations is Freedom Way. Here are some top dining options in this area near the Ohio River:
- Yard House
- Condado Tacos
- The Holy Grail Tavern & Grille
- Moerlein Lager House
On a beautiful day, take a leisurely stroll to the river’s shores for a pregame activity.
Parking Tips for a Great Outing at Great American Ball Park
We all have horror stories of parking nightmares that caused us to miss the start of a game or concert, or left us stranded for hours afterward. To avoid such experiences at Great American Ball Park, keep these essential parking tips in mind:
Arrive Early and Beat Traffic
Traffic in the heart of Cincinnati can be challenging, particularly during peak hours. Plan your day accordingly and aim to arrive at the stadium early to secure parking before the rush. Check the opening times of the gates to maximize your time inside the facility.
Know What You Can Bring
Just like any other stadium, Great American Ball Park has specific policies regarding what you can and cannot bring inside. Familiarize yourself with these rules in advance to avoid leaving prohibited items in your car.
Remember Where You Parked!
With countless parking spaces available in the vicinity, locating your vehicle at the end of the day can be a daunting task. Take a quick photo of your car’s location on your phone to quickly find your way back.
Look at a Map
Before you leave for the park, take a moment to review the surrounding area on a map. This will help you understand the layout and ensure a smooth journey.
Conclusion
Visiting Great American Ball Park for a Cincinnati Reds game or any other event is an exciting experience. By planning your parking strategy ahead of time, you can avoid unnecessary stress and fully enjoy your outing. This comprehensive guide has provided you with detailed information on various parking options, including official lots, third-party alternatives, and accessible solutions. Additionally, we’ve highlighted the availability of public transportation and rideshare services for convenient access to the stadium. Follow these parking tips to make the most of your visit and eliminate any parking-related issues. Get ready for an unforgettable time at Great American Ball Park!
