SportCationSportCation
DestinationsTeamsStacksBlogWC26Index

Kauffman Stadium Guide

MLB · Kansas City

View upcoming trip

Last updated: 3/4/2026

The Kauffman Stadium experience begins long before the first pitch—this is a classic drive-to ballpark about eight miles from downtown where tailgating is the main event. The best plan is to book your hotel in the Power & Light District, pre-purchase parking to save a few bucks, and arrive early to join the party in the lots of the Truman Sports Complex.

At a glance

Bag policy
Small bags only
Cashless
Cashless
Re-entry
No re-entry
Gates open
Gates open 1.5h before
Outside food
Outside food OK
Getting here
RideKC bus service on the 47-Broadway line is available to access the stadium.
Family friendly
Children 32 inches in height and under do not require a ticket.
Home team:Kansas City Royals

Upcoming trip that includes this venue

A real multi-game weekend from current index data that includes Kauffman Stadium.

Includes this venue

Kansas City

MLBFIFA
3 games

Fri, Jun 19 – Sun, Jun 21

$2075 USD est. total

MLB game at Kauffman Stadium
MLBFri, Jun 19 · 12:15 AM
FIFA game at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium
FIFASat, Jun 20 · 12:00 AM
MLB game at Kauffman Stadium
MLBSun, Jun 21 · 6:10 PM

MLBFIFA

View itinerary

Where to stay for Kauffman Stadium

For an overall experience including attractions and nightlife, downtown Kansas City/Power & Light District is considered a popular and convenient neighborhood for hotels. The Country Club Plaza is another recommended option. If the primary focus is solely on Royals games, there are limited hotel options closer to the stadium.

Downtown Kansas City / Power & Light District

This energetic and central neighborhood is considered a 'first timer' and sports hub, packed with restaurants, bars, and entertainment venues. It is vibrant and offers a high density of activities and people.

The KC Streetcar directly serves the Power & Light District, providing free transportation to the T-Mobile Center and connecting to other downtown areas and the River Market. For Arrowhead Stadium and Kauffman Stadium (Truman Sports Complex), RideKC Bus routes such as 47 Broadway offer game-day shuttle services, and routes 28 and 29 also provide service.

Crossroads Arts District

This creative and walkable neighborhood, situated between Downtown and Midtown, is ideal for art lovers and foodies. It offers an authentic local culture with galleries, independent restaurants, and a lively atmosphere during events like 'First Fridays'.

Being adjacent to Downtown, the Crossroads Arts District has good access to the free KC Streetcar, which connects to the Power & Light District (for T-Mobile Center) and Union Station. RideKC bus routes are also available for connections to other parts of the city.

River Market

One of the city's most historic and culturally rich neighborhoods, River Market offers diverse cuisines, a farmer's market, and local boutiques.

The River Market is directly on the free KC Streetcar route, providing easy access to Downtown and Union Station. From Downtown, connections can be made to RideKC bus routes serving the sports stadiums.

See full Kansas City stay guide →

Arrival and exit strategy

Transit and approach

RideKC bus service on the 47-Broadway line is available to access the stadium.

Rideshare and parking

Rideshare: Designated rideshare drop-off and pickup zones are located at the Missouri Welcome Center, between Gates 1 and 2.

Parking: It is recommended to pre-purchase parking passes to save money. Arrive early to secure a spot and avoid traffic. Lot N is suggested for groups planning to tailgate.

After the event

Popular areas for post-game late-night activities in Kansas City include the Power & Light District, Crossroads, and Westport. Options include McFadden's Sports Saloon and Mosaic Ultra Lounge in Power & Light, Atomic Cowboy and Brewery Emperial in Crossroads, and Westport Ale House.

Works well with these Kansas City venues

Map context

Open in Google Maps →

The game-day experience

  • Atmosphere area: Kauffman Stadium is located within the Truman Sports Complex, directly adjacent to GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium. It is situated about 7-8 miles east of downtown Kansas City.
  • Tailgating: Tailgating is a common and expected tradition at Kauffman Stadium. Parking lots open well before first pitch, encouraging fans to arrive early for tailgating.
  • Signature food: Brisket nachos, featuring chopped brisket, BBQ baked beans, cheesy corn, coleslaw, and BBQ sauce piled over corn tortilla chips, are a fan-favorite and signature ballpark item.
  • Fan tradition: Local fan traditions include tailgating in the stadium parking lots before games, enjoying the iconic outfield fountains, and honoring Buck O'Neil by selecting a community member to sit in his red legacy seat behind home plate.

Where to eat and drink nearby

Pregame picks

  • Johnny's Tavern – Power & Light District
    1310 Grand Blvd, Kansas City, MO 64106 · Power & Light District

    A locally owned hotspot for sports and food, featuring 52 large HDTVs for every major sport. Known for world-famous hamburgers and a lively atmosphere for fan watch parties, especially for the Chiefs and Royals.

    What to order: World famous hamburgers, pizza made from scratch, wings, steaks. Gluten-free menu available.

  • Rivals Sports Bar at Kauffman Stadium
    One Royal Way, Kansas City, MO 64129 · Truman Sports Complex

    An open-air bar located within Kauffman Stadium, offering excellent views of the Royals games. All fans with a ticket have access, with options for reserved seats or tables.