Great American Ballpark: The Cincinnati Reds Gameday Guide

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Tickets To Cincinnati Reds Games

The Reds have an exciting young team this year. If you’re looking for tickets here are some options:

• Get Cincinnati Reds Tickets Here! If you’re looking for the best seats at Reds or Bengals games, concerts or any event! Our partners at Vivid Seats have you covered!
• Official Reds Website: The most direct way to purchase tickets is through the Cincinnati Reds’ official website. They offer a variety of ticket options, including single-game tickets, season tickets, and special packages.
• Ballpark Box Office: Visit the box office at Great American Ball Park in person to purchase tickets directly. This option allows you to see the available seating options and get assistance from staff if needed.
• Third-Party Ticket Vendors: Explore local ticket vendors or authorized third-party sellers in the Cincinnati area. These vendors may offer tickets at face value or with added benefits such as group discounts or special promotions.
• Season Ticket Packages: Consider purchasing a season ticket package directly from the Reds. Season ticket holders often receive perks such as priority access to playoff tickets, discounts on concessions and merchandise, and invitations to exclusive events.
• Group Tickets: If you’re attending the game with a large group, consider purchasing group tickets directly from the Reds. Group ticket packages often come with discounted rates and additional perks such as scoreboard recognition or pre-game hospitality options.

Great American Ballpark Seating Chart

Great American Ballpark in Cincinnati, built in 2003, has a seating capacity of 42,271 distributed across three levels. Here is the Seating Chart of Great American Ballpark  

Best Seats At Great American Ballpark

I’ll be honest—Great American Ball Park has weird quirks that matter more than you’d think. The Ohio River’s right there, and so is the sun depending on what time you’re playing. Those aren’t small details.

If You Actually Want to Watch the Game

Diamond Seats behind home plate (sections 1-5) are the obvious pick if money’s no object. You get wait service, access to the exclusive club, and a view straight down the line at every pitch. But that’s expensive, and there’s a better play.

Field boxes along the dugouts—particularly down the lines in sections 115 to 131—put you close enough to hear player chatter without the premium price tag. Sections 119 to 122 along first base give you infield action and occasional foul ball chances. If you’re behind home plate in sections 116-118? You’re watching every pitch like you’re the catcher.

The Club level seats in the 300 sections are underrated. You get better food, unlimited water and soft drinks, and most importantly—shade. Seriously, that matters here.

The View Seats (And What You’re Actually Looking At)

Sections 409-412 in right field overlook the Ohio River and the bridge. It’s genuinely pretty, but here’s the thing—you’re also in the “Sun Deck.” Right field sections 140-146 are always going to cook you if it’s a day game. Scout it if you’re okay with squinting.

Left field seats in sections 237-239 frame the Cincinnati skyline nicely. If atmosphere matters more than perfect sightlines, this is it. But again—left field gets brutal sun early in the day.

Budget Plays That Actually Work

Upper deck seats in sections 513-515 (third base side) run $15-20. You’re high up, but you can see the entire field. Sections 409-410 are all-you-can-eat seats—the view’s compromised, but if you skip lunch, you’ll get your money’s worth. Just don’t expect premium sightlines.

Outfield bleacher seats in sections 404 (left) and 428 (right) are $20 and up for a full field perspective. You’re watching baseball, not analyzing it, but that’s fine for casual games.

The Sun Thing (Seriously)

This matters way more than you think. The park faces southeast toward the river. First base side is your shade friend—sections 134 to 139, 433-436, and 533 to 537 catch shade depending on game time. For day games at 1:40 p.m.? Basically nowhere except club level has shade. For 4:10 p.m. starts, first base line gets in the shade by mid-game. Sit above row F in the 300 sections if you want guaranteed coverage.

Right field Sun Deck? Bring sunscreen and accept your fate if you’re going for the river view.

Premium Seating Options

Here’s the thing about premium seats—they solve actual problems. You’re not just paying for cushions; you’re paying to not deal with weather, crowds, or terrible food lines.

Diamond Club (Sections 1-5): The Full Experience

If you’re dropping serious money, this is where it goes. You get the first eight rows directly behind home plate. There’s a window looking straight into the tunnel where players walk to the dugout—that’s legitimately cool. The Lexus Diamond Club lounge has a gourmet buffet open from 90 minutes before first pitch through an hour after the game. In-seat food and drink service means you’re eating during the game, not during a bathroom break between innings.

Private entrance, private restrooms, and a climate-controlled lounge to escape summer heat. Yeah, it runs $230-800 per ticket depending on the game, but if you’re going to sit through a July day game, this is how you actually survive it.

Club Home (Sections 220 to 228) and Club Seats (Sections 301 to 307):

This is the move if you want comfort without the Diamond Club price tag. Wider, padded seats with actual legroom. Access to the Fox Sports Ohio Champions Club with unlimited water and soft drinks (no alcohol). You can order food via the app and have it brought to your seat instead of missing two innings waiting in line.

Club Home sits behind home plate (rows A-C, so pretty limited), while regular Club Seats on the 301-307 sections are on the second level of first base side. You get shade if you’re smart about which rows you pick, climate control, and actual breathing room. Most games run significantly cheaper than Diamond Club but feel like a totally different experience from regular field seats.

Scout Seats (Sections 22-25 and 122-126): The Underrated Option

Seriously overlooked. These sit right behind home plate like Diamond seats but without the theatrical lounge experience. You’re close enough to see everything, and you get wait service (though it’s not included in the ticket price). Access to Scouts Alley with private concessions. If you want premium views without the full-service dining operation, this is it.

Great American Ballpark: The Cincinnati Reds Gameday Guide

If you’re headed to a ballgame at Great American Ballpark its good to be mindful of the different policies to ensure a smooth experience. From the Bag Policy to Getting to the stadium we have you covered. If you’re looking for a full overview of all policies check out the Reds Website. Here is an overview:

Great American Ballpark Bag Policy

If you’re headed to a Reds game, here are the details on the bag policy for Great American Ballpark:

• Bags larger than 16″x16″x8″ are not permitted, except for medical bags or diaper bags.
• Backpacks and drawstring bags are permitted if they adhere to the 16″x16″x8″ size limit.
• Totes and purses are permitted as long as they are within the size limit.
• Clear plastic, vinyl, or PVC totes/bags that do not exceed the size limit are permitted.
• Small soft-sided coolers that do not exceed the size limit are permitted.
• No other bags, including briefcases, are permitted except for authorized medical or diaper bags.

So in summary, make sure any bags meet the 16″x16″x8″ size limit if you want to bring them into Great American Ballpark. Clear plastic totes and small soft coolers are okay if they fit those dimensions  All permitted bags are subject to search both upon entry to the ballpark and within the ballpark.

Additional Policies and Tips

• Cashless Stadium: Great American Ballpark went fully cashless in 2021. All purchases inside the park (concessions, merch, etc.) must be made via credit/debit card or mobile pay.
• Food and drinks: Fans can bring in unopened bottles of water and soft drinks under 1 liter. Food is allowed but must fit inside a permissible bag. Alcohol is prohibited.
• Cameras: Still cameras are allowed, but video cameras only for personal use. No tripods or monopods.
• Seating: All fans need a ticket for a seat – there is no general admission seating. Be prepared to show your ticket if requested.
• Autographs: Autographs are only allowed by the dugouts during batting practice and not during the games.
• Kids’ policy: All children over age 2 need a ticket. The Reds do not have a kids’ zone but strollers are permitted if child has a ticket.
• Re-entry: Fans are allowed to exit and re-enter with their ticket before the 7th inning only. No re-entry after the 7th.
• Smoking: Great American Ballpark is a non-smoking facility. This includes e-cigarettes and vaping devices.
• Gates Open: For night games, gates generally open 2 hours before first pitch (so 5pm for a 7pm game). For day games, gates open 1.5 hours early (so 11:30am for 1pm game).
• Batting Practice: Fans can watch Reds and visiting team batting practice on the field when gates open until about 30-45 mins before first pitch. Great chance for home run balls.
• Autographs: The best shot is when gates open, as both home and away teams take batting practice on the field. Position yourself by the dugouts with any items you want signed. No guarantees though.

Some other tips:

• Weekday games may have later gate opening times so check ahead.
• Gates for premium ticket holders (e.g. Diamond Seats) open earlier, so those fans have early access for autographs during batting practice as well.

Parking At Great American Ballpark

Finding parking close-by on game day can be a headache, so make sure to allot plenty of extra time and have a plan B parking option just in case. Arriving 90 minutes before first pitch is ideal, as it allows enough time to park, walk to the stadium, and clear security so you don’t miss any of the action. If running late, consider parking farther away to avoid post-game traffic jams. Here is an overview along with some tips for parking at Reds games:

Ballpark Parking Lots

• There are official Reds parking lots located just across the street from GABP. Prices range from $10-20 depending on the lot and day of the game. These fill up fast and are first-come, first-served.

Downtown Garages

• There are many downtown parking garages a short walk from the ballpark. Prices vary by garage. Expect to pay $5-20. (see list below)
• Have back-up garage locations identified within walking distance

Third Party Parking

• Many third party lots and garages farther from the stadium offer game day parking. Prices start around $5 but may involve longer walks.

On-Street Parking

• There is metered street parking downtown but it is very limited on game days. Must pay meter every 1-2 hours. Enforced until 10pm..
• Park at a meter or farther lot if on a budget, allowing enough time to walk 15+ mins

Garages near Great American Ballpark:

• Terrace Garage (606 E Pete Rose Way) – Connected to ballpark concourse, best guarantee of gameday parking
• Fountain Square South Garage (520 Vine St)- Newer, only 0.1 miles to stadium, reasonable rates
• Montgomery Inn Boathouse Garage (405 E Pete Rose Way) – VERY close, entrances often jammed after games

These are a few options to consider when driving down to the game. Its probably smart to prepay for a pass online when possible so you have a guaranteed space. Avoid lots right next to the park, as they’re  difficult to access before & after games when traffic peaks. Its always smart to  check the Cincinnati Downtowner app, or parking apps for downtown garage availability and pricing.

Public Transportation To Great American Ballpark

Getting to Great American Ballpark via public transportation on game day requires a bit of planning but can save you time and money compared to battling downtown traffic and parking. Allow plenty of extra time by checking route schedules in advance. Then explore these convenient transit options that drop off right at the ballpark:

Streetcar

• The Cincinnati Bell Connector streetcar route has a stop right in front of the ballpark on 2nd Street. Runs until midnight on weeknights. Fare is $1 for 2 hours or $2 for an all-day pass.

Bus

• Metro buses provide service to downtown and various stops near the ballpark. Express buses from farther suburbs only run for weekday games. Fares start at $1.75. Here is a link to the Metro Bus website.

Ride Share

• Uber and Lyft can drop off and pick up on the west side of the ballpark near the Schmidlapp Event Lawn. Expect surcharges after games end. If you don’t mind walking, its not a bad idea to get picked up or dropped off a bit away from the ballpark downtown and just walk the rest of the way. Speaking of…

Walking

• Downtown is walkable and the ballpark is only a half mile from Fountain Square. Follow wayfinding signs along the recommended pedestrian routes. About a 15 minute walk.

Biking

• Rent a Red Bike and use the many downtown bike lanes. There is a Red Bike station outside the ballpark. Bike parking also available on site.

I recommend checking the Cincinnati Metro website for schedules and planning your route ahead of time. Arrive early as post-game waits can be longer for public transportation.

Insider Tips for Great American Ballpark

Honestly, from my experience, the difference between a mediocre ballpark experience and a great one usually comes down to knowing where to sit, when to eat, and what’s actually worth your money.

Arrive Early, But Not Too Early

Get there 60-90 minutes before first pitch. Early enough to grab food, find your seat, and settle in without rushing. Too early and you’re just sitting around. The gates usually open two hours before game time, which gives you breathing room. Parking around the ballpark is tight and expensive—if you’re driving, budget an extra 20 minutes just for finding a spot. Better move? Use an Uber or stay close enough to walk. The Banks development nearby has restaurants and bars, but the real move is arriving with a plan instead of winging it.

Come Hungry, But Plan Your Food Strategy

Don’t wait until you’re starving—that’s when you blow $20 on mediocre nachos. The new Food Hub near section 112 is a game-changer. It’s grab-and-go self-checkout with Penn Station, Wings & Rings, LaRosa’s, and hot dogs all in one place. Get in, get out, back to your seat in minutes. If you’re already thinking about lunch, hit Penn Station ($11ish for a steak sandwich and fries)—it’s actually reasonable markup compared to other ballpark fare.

For Cincinnati flavors, the Redlegs BBQ Walking Taco (near sections 117, 133, 416, 425) is legitimately good—Grippo’s chips with Montgomery Inn pulled pork. Sounds weird, tastes like a memory. The Cincy Sizzle street tacos and Big Mozz Chicken Parm are solid if you want actual food that feels like food. Try the Goetta Slider too, i think its seasonal though.

If you’re the type to skip meals before a game, the All-You-Can-Eat wristband near section 428 is $20 and includes unlimited peanuts, popcorn, chips, soda, and up to 5 hot dogs. For families, it pays for itself after two trips to the concession stand.

Keep in mind, depending on when i update this, these prices can change. Just an FYI. They’ll probably go up. Thanks Inflation!

Sit Smart Based on Sun and Timing

Day games are brutal. Right field sections 140-146 are literally called the “Sun Deck” for a reason—you will cook. If you’re in the first base line (sections 134-139), you catch shade by mid-game depending on start time. 4:10 p.m. games? You’re mostly covered by mid-inning. Early afternoon? Basically nowhere except club level or premium seats has shade. Bring sunscreen or accept your fate.

Use the App to Skip Lines

Club seat holders can order food through the MLB Ballpark app and have it delivered to their seats. But honestly, everyone should know the Food Hub exists. It eliminates the classic ballpark experience of missing two innings in a concession line.

If You’re on a Premium Seat, Actually Use the Club

Diamond Club gets a gourmet buffet from 90 minutes before until an hour after the game. Club sections get unlimited water and soft drinks plus app-ordered food service. Seriously—that’s why you paid for it. Don’t sit in your seat missing out on air conditioning and decent food options.

Know Where to Find What You Want

All-beef hot dogs are everywhere (sections 105, 113, 117, 130, 133, 137, 143, 402, 405, 511, 514, 516, 525, 532). Wings & Rings is at the Food Hub. Montgomery Inn Smokehouse has the BBQ nachos. Reds Brewery District (section 118) has local craft beer. Don’t wander around guessing—check the concession directory on reds.com/food before you come.

The River View Seats Aren’t Worth the Heat

Sections 409-412 overlook the Ohio River and Cincinnati skyline. It’s pretty. But right field bakes. If atmosphere over comfort matters, fine. Just know what you’re signing up for.

Hotels Near Great American Ballpark

When visiting Cincinnati for a Reds game, staying downtown allows easy access to Great American Ballpark without worrying about parking or transportation. The stadium sits right on the banks of the Ohio River, surrounded by hotels within a 1-mile radius, many within walking distance. I’ve rounded up the top properties spanning high-end luxury to affordable budget chains—all in the heart of the urban action.

With downtown location being key, the Banks entertainment district with bars and eateries is right by the ballpark. Most hotels offer shuttle service, but walking is doable to enjoy river views or Cincinnati’s skywalk system linking venues. Expect higher demand and rates for weekend games. Here is an overview of some great hotels along with some budget options near Great American Ballpark:

• The Renaissance Cincinnati: This top-tier hotel is housed in a beautifully restored historic building, originally built in 1921. The Gothic-style architecture and Art Deco details transport you to another time, while the interior features luxurious modern amenities. With its central downtown location, you’re just steps from the stadium, dining, arts and entertainment.
• The Westin Cincinnati: For sleek towering views, The Westin Cincinnati places you in the heart of downtown in a high-rise contemporary building. With posh accommodations just a half mile from the Great American Ballpark and central to downtown attractions, The Westin is perfect for an elevated yet convenient Cincinnati getaway.
• AC Hotel Cincinnati: Modern boutique hotel with upscale rooms, swanky top-floor bar, and 24/7 fitness center.  
• Embassy Suites by Hilton Cincinnati RiverCenter: This hotel offers spacious suites with modern amenities, ideal for both leisure and business travelers. Guests can enjoy a complimentary cooked-to-order breakfast and evening reception, as well as access to the hotel’s fitness center and indoor pool. Located just across the river from downtown Cincinnati, the hotel provides easy access to popular attractions like the Great American Ballpark and Paul Brown Stadium.
• Hyatt Regency Cincinnati: Contemporary high-rise hotel with 24-hr gym, Starbucks, and stylish PETE’s restaurant/lounge. 
• Millennium Hotel Cincinnati: Sleek rooms in downtown location, with nice city views and free shuttle service to the ballpark.  
• Hampton Inn & Suites:  Can’t beat the value with fresh decor, rooftop pool/fitness center and free breakfast buffet. Rates around  
• Holiday Inn Express Cincinnati Riverfront: Variety of room options, free breakfast, and riverfront walking path access.  
• Best Western Plus Hannaford: Outdoor pool, clean rooms with updated decor and touches like mini-fridges.  
• La Quinta Inn by Wyndham Cincinnati:  Parking included (a value downtown) and updated rooms. Complimentary breakfast included.  

Bars And Restaurants Near Great American Ballpark

You remember when The Banks was just dirt and empty promises, right? For years it sat there like Cincinnati’s biggest unfinished project—this massive riverfront stretch that everyone talked about but nobody actually went to. It was frustrating to watch. Over the last 25 years though, something actually happened. The city finally figured it out.

Today The Banks is packed. There are apartments, hotels, restaurants, bars, music venues—actual reasons to be there beyond the stadiums. It’s not finished yet (there’s still some undeveloped land), but what’s there works. You can walk from Great American Ball Park straight into bars and restaurants without getting in a car. That matters more than it sounds.

Right Next to the Stadium

Holy Grail Tavern & Grille is basically impossible to miss—it’s sprawling across multiple levels with 20+ craft beers on tap and the kind of sports bar energy you’d expect minutes from the ballpark. It gets packed on game days, which means good atmosphere but also actual crowds. Yard House is the other obvious choice if you want an expansive beer selection and happy hour deals before first pitch.

Moerlein Lager House is the one that actually feels special. It’s a working microbrewery right on the riverfront, not just another ballpark bar. The gastropub food is solid, the house-brewed beers taste like they’re actually from here, and if you sit on the patio you’re watching the river while drinking. In winter they have heated igloos if you want to stay outside in December, which is kind of ridiculous in the best way.

If You Want Something With Actual Character

Paulaner is legitimately different—authentic German beer hall with giant pork schnitzel sandwiches and Bavarian pretzels. It feels like a place that exists for reasons beyond stadium proximity. Rhinehaus has that biergarten vibe with brews and brats, outdoor games, and actual personality instead of just being a sports bar wearing a theme.

Tin Roof Cincinnati combines live music with Nashville hot chicken. If you want bands actually playing (country, pop, rock covers) instead of a jukebox, this is where to go. Jefferson Social runs a two-floor speakeasy cocktail lounge vibe if you want something more sophisticated than screaming over stadium noise.

The Banks Proper

This is where you get the actual riverfront experience. Tap & Screw has drink specials and live music that runs into the night—cover bands ranging from country to rock. It’s the kind of place where you can feel the development that happened. Walk across the Roebling Suspension Bridge and you’re in Kentucky—different energy, different bars, different vibe entirely if you want to keep the night going.

The Real Story

Don’t expect to save money down here. Everything charges ballpark-adjacent pricing because location drives demand. That’s just how it works. But here’s the thing—it’s genuinely better than eating inside the stadium or eating fast food before you go in. The atmosphere is actually alive. You’re walking around a neighborhood that took 25 years to build but actually came together. That’s worth paying for.

Show up early enough to grab a real meal and a beer. The Banks has actual restaurants with cooks who care. Moerlein, Paulaner, even Holy Grail if you just want good bar food. Then head into the game. You’ll feel like you’re part of something that finally worked instead of another tourist in a stadium parking lot.

Fun Things To Do In Cincinnati

If you’re visiting from out of town for a ballgame, or just want to explore your hometown on a staycation, here are some great things to do in the Queen City:

• Visit the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden: Explore one of the oldest zoos in the United States, home to a diverse array of animals and beautifully landscaped gardens.
• Fountain Square: This iconic gathering place in the heart of downtown hosts events, live music, and a variety of dining options surrounded by historic architecture.
• Tour the Cincinnati Art Museum: Discover a vast collection of artworks spanning thousands of years and various cultures, from ancient artifacts to contemporary pieces.
• Explore Findlay Market: Experience Cincinnati’s oldest continuously operated public market, offering a vibrant mix of local vendors, eateries, and artisanal goods.
• Take a riverboat cruise: Enjoy stunning views of the Cincinnati skyline and Ohio River on a scenic riverboat cruise, offering narrated tours and dinner cruises.
• National Underground Railroad Freedom Center: Learn about the history of slavery, the Underground Railroad, and contemporary human rights issues through interactive exhibits and educational programs.
• Cincinnati Museum Center at Union Terminal: Explore museums covering topics like natural history, science, and children’s discovery in this historic Art Deco train station.

We hope our guide was helpful. Great American Ballpark stands as a symbol of Cincinnati’s historic ties to the American pastime. For both longtime Reds fans and rookies, we hope these insights help you connect to those traditions. From this great locale along the Ohio River to the electrifying opening game day holiday atmosphere, Great American Ballpark is a fun baseball gem in the Queen City. Go Reds!

For Reds fans who like to follow the team on the road check out our guides to Busch Stadium in St. Louis, Truist Field in Atlanta and Wrigley Field in Chicago.

Also check out our Paycor Stadium guide Bengals fans.

Written by Brad Richards, Founder of Gameday Guides. This guide includes insights from personal visits as well as updated info from team sources, fan forums, and stadium policies. We aim to help you plan with confidence — enjoy your gameday.