“Blue Ridge Cutoff” exit from interstate 70 is where the excitement begins for my family and I. After driving across George Brett Bridge, you then make your way into the parking lot. For many fans, this is where most of the time is spent tailgating. Friends and family gather to eat, drink, laugh and play some games of bag toss etc.
If stopping at just the parking lot, you would be missing out on one of the most beautiful and euphoric ballparks in the MLB, The K (Kauffman Stadium).
“Once inside I got this calm feeling that just washed over me”
What The K and Royals Mean to Me via Royals Review
There are not enough words to describe the feeling when entering the gates of this rapturous place. My wife and I often say to one another “It feels good to be Home“, as we feel The K is our home away from home.
Whether you enter gates A or E, you will promptly see a Bullpen Burger where you can buy some food and drinks. There is also effortless refill stations located as a walk-up on the side of Bullpen Burger to refill the souvenir cups you may obtain. If you chose to enter through gate E, to your left is a Grinders cheesesteak hut. While they may not be from Philly, I promise you they’re worth a try.
Once venturing further into the stadium, you will find a Royals Hall of Fame. Not only is the Hall of Fame worth it for visiting just for the AC alone on a hot day, but this is a beautifully done venture through KC baseball history. From the Monarchs, Athletics, the evolution of bats and gloves, and Bobby Witt Jr plus everything in between. Don’t forget to check out the collection of Golden Glove awards, World Series trophies, and game used gear from historical moments.
Across from the Hall of Fame is a marketplace/convenience store that you can quickly grab water and snacks.
Next to the beautiful Hall of Fame is the acclaimed fountains. I would also advocate going by here to cool off on a warm day to feel the mist of the cool waters. This is also a prime spot if you get early entry for batting practice.
If you prefer to enjoy some alcoholic beverages, then maybe try deterring to Rivals Sports Bar located near the fountains in the outfield. There is also a Blue Moon Taproom there as well.
Maybe alcohol isn’t to your fancy and/or ice cream is, head over to Belfonte Ice Cream (located in the Outfield Experience area) and get a few delicious scoops of your favorite flavor in a mini royals batting helmet.
Now, perhaps the cheesesteak wasn’t enough to bring you to surfeit and some BBQ sounds good. I suggest you then head to Sweet Baby Ray’s BBQ Pit, also located in the Outfield Experience area.
For a great family experience, especially with younger children, definitely do not miss the Outfield Experience. Loaded with activities such as a free playground, Sluggerrr’s Mini Golf, a carousel, a batting cage, pitching challenge, Little K and Sluggerrr’s Base Run; this is something your kids will not want to miss.
While in the Outfield Experience area, be sure to check out the New Era Cap Store for your favorite Royals lid (hat). If that’s not enough, then check out the Royals Boutique along with the Fountain Team Store. The best selection of gear though is in the Royals Team Store located on plaza/field level behind home plate.
If you are like me and love memorabilia, definitely go to the Royals Authentics Store also on the plaza/field level (3rd base side). There you will find everything from autographed cards to game used bases, bats and jerseys. Surely there is something in there for all Royals collectors, with items from past greats like Bo Jackson and current stars like Bobby Witt Jr. and Salvador Perez.
In case you just want traditional ballpark food before going to your seats, most concession stands have the normal options of hot dogs, pretzels and nachos among other things. My personal favorite is a Sheboygan Brat.
Now that you have presumably concluded most of your stadium experience, it’s time to make your way to your seat. As a STM (Season Ticket Member), as well as someone who has sat almost everywhere in the stadium, I can honestly say there is not a bad seat. The viewing is great from everywhere in the ballpark. The stadium was truly designed for fans to enjoy the game.
“There is nothing like watching baseball in a park built for baseball, where you can be close to the field and the players.”
-Media Guide (1973)
My typical spot is in or near section 420, within the first few rows. This is straight up from home plate and have never felt too far away at all. I can honestly say that even those with vision issues such as my retired parents had no problem enjoying the game. You also may even be lucky enough to catch a foul ball. Don’t miss the beautiful Crown Vision screen located above the fountains behind center field.
Another option, especially during late innings in a close game, is standing by the fountains. This is chiefly electrifying when a Royal hits a walk off into the water near you for a Splash Down home run. While in the area, if having not done so earlier, look at the back of the Crown Vision screen to see the World Series Championship years. Then, get a photo on your way out with statues such as the Kauffmans and George Brett among others.
If you ever get the pleasure of taking in a game at The K, I highly recommend you check out as much as possible while there. As much as many of us love this ballpark, we all know that these stadiums do not last forever. Cherish it while you can with anyone you can.
