Heading to American Family Field for Brewers vs. Mets? Your Ultimate Parking Guide is Here.
What's up, baseball fans! If you're gearing up to watch the Milwaukee Brewers take on the New York Mets, you're in for a treat. American Family Field is an incredible place to catch a game, but let's be honest, figuring out the parking situation can be a bit of a headache, especially for a big matchup. I've been there more times than I can count & have learned a few things, sometimes the hard way. So, I figured I'd put together a guide to help you navigate the lots like a pro.
Here's the thing about parking at a Brewers game: it's not just about finding a spot. It's about the whole experience. Milwaukee has a legendary tailgating scene, & the lots at AmFam Field are where the pre-game party happens. But with over 12,000 parking spaces, it can also mean a whole lot of traffic & a long walk if you don't know what you're doing. So, let's break it all down.
The Lowdown on the Official Lots: What's New & What You NEED to Know
First things first, if you haven't been to a game in a little while, you'll notice a BIG change. Gone are the days of fumbling for cash or a credit card at the lot entrance. The Brewers have gone high-tech with a new license plate recognition system. This is super important to know because it changes how you pay.
Now, you have two main options:
- Pre-pay for your spot: You can buy your parking pass in advance through the MLB Ballpark app. This is honestly the way to go. It's cheaper, & it guarantees you have a spot waiting for you.
- Pay on-site with your phone: If you don't pre-pay, you'll need to scan a QR code on one of the signs in the lot to pay. You can use Apple Pay, Google Pay, or a credit card.
The idea is to get cars into the lots faster, but the real challenge, as any seasoned fan will tell you, is getting OUT after the game. We'll get to that in a bit.
General vs. Preferred Parking: Is it Worth the Extra Cash?
The official lots are divided into two main categories: General & Preferred. The lots are named after Brewers legends like Yount, Molitor, & Uecker, which is a pretty cool touch.
- General Parking: These are the lots furthest from the stadium, like the Molitor, Yount, & Uecker lots. They're the more budget-friendly option, but be prepared for a bit of a walk.
- Preferred Parking: These lots, like the Braves, Brewers, Fingers, & Money lots, are closer to the stadium entrances. They cost a bit more, but they can save you some walking time & potentially some time getting out after the game.
So, is preferred parking worth it? A lot of fans will tell you yes, especially for the easier exit. The Molitor lot is often mentioned as being one of the better ones for a quicker getaway. If you're looking for accessible parking, those spots are in the preferred lots near the home plate entrance.
Here's a quick look at the pricing, which can vary depending on the day:
| Parking Type | Monday-Friday | Saturday-Sunday & Cubs Games | Opening Day |
|---|
| Preferred (Advance) | $19 | $21 | $21 |
| General (Advance) | $14 | $16 | $16 |
| Preferred (Day of) | $27 | $42 | $42 |
| General (Day of) | $17 | $22 | $22 |
Prices are subject to change, so it's always a good idea to check the official Brewers website for the latest info.
As you can see, buying in advance saves you a decent amount of money. For a weekend game against a team like the Mets, you're looking at a $20 difference for a preferred spot if you wait until game day!
The Art of the Tailgate & Why Arriving Early is NON-NEGOTIABLE
Here's a crucial piece of advice: get there early. Seriously. The lots typically open three hours before first pitch, & for a big game, you'll see a line of cars waiting to get in. On some weekdays, the lots might open 2.5 hours before the game, so double-check the Brewers' website.
Why the rush? Two words: tailgating & traffic.
Brewers fans are SERIOUS about their tailgating. It's a huge part of the game day culture. People will be out there with grills, coolers, & cornhole, enjoying the pre-game atmosphere. If you want to be part of the fun, you need to get there early to claim a good spot.
But even if you're not planning on tailgating, arriving early is still your best bet. With thousands of cars all trying to get into the same place, the traffic can be a nightmare. The closer you get to game time, the longer you'll be sitting in your car. Getting there early means less stress & a shorter wait.
The Great Escape: How to Avoid the Post-Game Parking Lot Nightmare
So you've had a great time at the game, the Brewers won (hopefully!), & now you're ready to head home. This is where the real test of your patience begins. Getting out of the official lots can take a LONG time. It's just the reality of having that many people leaving at once.
Here are a few strategies to minimize the pain:
- Choose your lot wisely: As mentioned before, some of the preferred lots, like the Molitor lot, are known for having a slightly easier exit.
- Park smart: Try to find a spot on the edge of a row that points you toward the exit. It might seem like a small thing, but it can make a difference.
- Hang out for a bit: Instead of rushing to your car right after the last out, take your time. Let the initial wave of traffic die down. Have one last tailgate beer, listen to the post-game show on the radio, or just chill out for 20-30 minutes.
Exploring Your Options: Beyond the Official Lots
The official lots are convenient, but they're not your only option. If you're looking to save some money or avoid the stadium traffic, here are a few alternatives:
Bar Shuttles: A Milwaukee Tradition
A classic Milwaukee move is to park at a nearby bar or restaurant & take their shuttle to the game. Places like Kelly's Bleachers are famous for this. You get to enjoy some food & drinks before the game, & then hop on a shuttle that drops you off right near the stadium. It's a fun & convenient way to get to the game, & you don't have to worry about the stadium traffic.
Street Parking: A Bit of a Gamble
You can find some free street parking north of the stadium on Blue Mound Road or the side streets off of it. But be warned, it's a bit of a hike to the ballpark, & spots can be tough to find, especially for a popular game. If you go this route, be prepared for a walk.
The Savvy Fan's Secret Weapon: Prked
Honestly, one of the best-kept secrets for stress-free parking at American Family Field is using an app like Prked. Here's the deal: Prked connects you with homeowners near the stadium who rent out their driveways or garage spots for games.
I've started using it recently, & it's a TOTAL game-changer. It's often cheaper than the preferred lots, but the biggest win is avoiding the insane traffic getting into & out of the main stadium lots. You just book your spot on the app, park in someone's driveway a short walk from the field, & after the game, you can just stroll back to your car & drive away while everyone else is stuck in that post-game gridlock. It's a fantastic way to bypass the biggest headache of going to a Brewers game.
A Few Final Pro-Tips for a Smooth Game Day
- Download the MLB Ballpark app: Even if you don't pre-pay for parking, you'll need this app for your tickets anyway. Get it set up on your phone before you leave for the game.
- Know your license plate number: You'll need it to activate your parking, whether you pre-pay or pay on-site.
- Be aware of oversized vehicle charges: If you're bringing a vehicle longer than 18 feet, you'll have to pay for two spots.
- Have a designated driver: This should go without saying, but if you're going to be tailgating or enjoying some beers at the game, make sure you have a safe ride home.
Going to a Brewers game is an awesome experience, & with a little planning, your parking situation can be smooth & stress-free. Whether you brave the official lots, take a shuttle, or try out a service like Prked, now you've got the inside scoop to make the most of your day at American Family Field.
Hope this was helpful, & go Brewers! Let me know what you think in the comments.
