Know Before You Go: Major League Baseball Comes to Indy

If you’re planning on attending Saturday’s exhibition game between the Pittsburgh Pirates and the Cincinnati Reds, you’ve probably had your tickets since November. Within 24 hours of announcing the game, tickets had sold out faster than any other event at Victory Field. Point being, Saturday afternoon at the ballpark is going to be packed with people. Here are five things to keep in mind:

1. Drive early. Gates will open at 11:30 a.m., two hours before first pitch, but downtown will be busy hosting the NCAA Women’s Final Four. Expect a lot of traffic, road closings, and limited parking. Final Four activities will be taking place at the Indiana Convention Center, Georgia Street, and elsewhere, including a 5K run that passes the intersection of West Street and Maryland Street at Victory Field.
2. Pack a raincoat, poncho, or umbrella. And dress warm. It’ll be in the 40s throughout the day, and rain is predicted. For more information about weather delays for the game, click here.
3. Take blankets and a cooler if you’re sitting on the lawn. Bring snacks or even lunch for the game, just remember to pack it in plastic containers as glass containers aren’t allowed. Also keep in mind that lawn chairs aren’t allowed and coolers must be single-handled and no larger than 20 inches in length. No liquor allowed.
4. Bring money if you want alcohol. For those of you 21 or older and in want of a beer or cocktail during the game, you’ll have to buy it at Corona Light Cantina or Coors Light Cove, which offers a full bar. If you’re interested in gluten-free beer, Healthy Alternatives offers it among its healthy and vegetarian selections of food, dessert, and other drinks.
5. Expect long lines for concessions and the bathroom. Since this is a sellout, yup, the stadium will be crowded. Peak hours for food and the bathroom tend to be before the game starts and between innings.

For more information, visit IndyIndians.com.