When the umpire shouts “play ball,” the Miami Marlins will officially kick off the 2018 season with a game against the Chicago Cubs on March 29. Even if you’re not planning to watch opening day action in person, there will be ample opportunity to catch games throughout the regular season, which ends in September. But if you’re planning to attend a game and have never visited Marlins Park, there are a few things you should know to get the most out of your experience. 

Buying Tickets

Photo by Shutterstock

For information on how to buy tickets, visit the Miami Marlins website. You’ll find information on season tickets, group sales, and other ticket offers. To buy tickets for a single game, navigate to the schedule and click on the green ticket icon. You can search for tickets by price and seat location, or select your individual seats on a map of the park. 

Getting to the Ballpark

Metrorail photo by Shutterstock

If you’re planning on taking public transportation to the park, located at 501 Marlins Way off the Dolphin Expressway, you can take the Metrorail to Culmer Station, where an express bus will take you directly to the park. The shuttle runs 90 minutes prior to the game’s start time and 60 minutes after it ends. Those driving from the North East should take Interstate 95 South to Florida State Road 836 West and exit at NW 12th Avenue. 

Having a Sun Pass so you can use the express lanes on Interstate 95 can make your drive shorter, although it will cost you. (The more traffic, the higher the cost.)

For the North West, take Interstate 75 South and exit towards Florida State Road 825 South, then 836 East, and exit on NW 17th Avenue. Hint: using a driving app such as Google Maps or Waze can sometimes help you navigate around dense areas of traffic. 

Parking

 

Marlins Park has four onsite parking garages located on the north and south sides of the ballpark, along with limited surface parking on the west and east sides of the park. The Home Plate Garage, Third Base Garage, as well as the East 1 and West 2 lots are prepaid parking only (The cost is $15-$20.).

All remaining lots are available for purchase on day of game. Those who don’t mind parking a short distance away from the park and walking, parking is available in several lots near the park and typically cost $10-$15.

Getting the Most of the Ballpark Experience

Marlins Park photo courtesy of Roberto Coquis

Since it opened in 2012, Marlins Park has received strong reviews from visitors for its state-of-the art features. With air conditioning and a retractable roof, you don’t have to worry about dealing with the South Florida heat or having a game rained out.

For food and drink, the park offers perennial ballpark favorites, such as hot dogs and popcorn, but also features unique Miami offerings like frita burgers, Cuban coffee, and craft beer from Concrete Beach, Miami Brewing Company, and J. Wakefield Brewery.

For action on the field, make sure you watch “Homer,” the outfield sculpture that whirs with moving dolphins and splashing fountains when the Marlins hit a home run. For the tech savvy who want to ensure the best possible park experience, use the official Marlins park app.

Restaurants/Bars in the Areas

Photo courtesy of Crust

Those who want to eat or drink before or after the game may choose from a number of establishments, some of which also boast views of the Miami River. Crust, located on NW North River Drive, is a casual dining Italian restaurant just a short drive from the park that offers small plates, pizza, and traditional Italian dishes such as eggplant parmesan and chicken milanese. Those looking for seafood may choose Casablanca Seafood Bar & Grill, also on NW North River Drive. Both restaurants offer outdoor tables with views of the Miami River.

Those looking to pregame or discuss a Marlins win or loss can try Batting Cage Sports Bar & Lounge at 1704 NW 7th St., located directly across the street from the park. 

Rooting for the Marlins

Photo courtesy of Clevelander

Sure, lots of people who now call South Florida their home were once residents of other states and other cities. And, let’s face it, sports loyalties held from childhood are hard to give up. But even if you plan on attending a game to watch the Marlins play your childhood favorite team, consider attending another game during the season so you can “root, root, root, for the home team.” A bonus for former New Yorkers: You might catch a glimpse of former Yankees star Derek Jeter, who recently became a Marlins team owner.