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Nationals Park Guide

MLB · Washington

Last updated: 3/4/2026

Find Nationals Park right on the Anacostia River waterfront. It's in the Navy Yard neighborhood, and getting there is simple—just take the Metro Green Line to the Navy Yard-Ballpark station, a block from the center field gate. If you're staying over, the surrounding area is your best bet, full of hotels and a lively waterfront dining scene all within walking distance of the stadium.

At a glance

Bag policy
Clear bag policy
Cashless
Cashless
Re-entry
Re-entry exceptions apply
Gates open
Gates open 80 min before
Outside food
Sealed water only
Getting here
Nationals Park is accessible via the Metro Green Line at the Navy Yard-Ballpark station, which is one block away from the center field gate.
Family friendly
Nationals Park offers baby changing stations in all public restrooms and dedicated family restrooms (behind Sections 104, 117, 139, and 235).

Upcoming trip that includes this venue

A real multi-game weekend from current index data that includes Nationals Park.

Where to stay for Nationals Park

The Navy Yard neighborhood itself is considered an ideal area to stay, offering a range of mid-range-plus hotels within walking distance of the park and its numerous restaurants and bars.

Navy Yard / Capitol Riverfront

This vibrant, modern waterfront neighborhood is ideal for baseball and soccer fans, offering direct proximity to Nationals Park and Audi Field. It boasts a lively dining scene, waterfront entertainment, and is known for its newer developments.

Accessible via the Green Line at the Navy Yard-Ballpark Metro Station, which is just one block from Nationals Park. Audi Field is also a short walk from Navy Yard Metro Station, or accessible via the Waterfront Metro Station (Green Line). The area has an excellent transit score.

Southwest Waterfront / The Wharf

This redeveloped waterfront area offers a modern and energetic atmosphere with a wide array of dining, entertainment, and cultural options. It's a great choice for those seeking a lively experience near the water.

Home to the Waterfront Metro Station (Green Line). It's also only one Metro stop away from the Navy Yard-Ballpark Metro Station (Green Line), providing easy access to Nationals Park and Audi Field.

Downtown Washington

As a central hub, Downtown offers unparalleled accessibility to various parts of the city, making it a convenient base for exploring all sports venues. It's close to major attractions like the National Mall and Smithsonian museums, and features a diverse culinary scene.

Boasts a perfect Transit Score and is considered a 'rider's paradise' with easy access to multiple Metrorail lines (Blue, Orange, Green, Yellow, and Red) and numerous bus routes. Metro Center station is a major transfer point, providing connections across the city.

Capitol Hill

While primarily known for its political significance and historic beauty, Capitol Hill offers a charming atmosphere with historic row houses, markets, and proximity to iconic landmarks. It can be a good option for those who appreciate history and a more traditional DC experience.

Capitol Hill has an excellent Transit Score and is well-connected with numerous bus and subway lines passing through the area. The Capitol South station (Orange, Blue, Silver Lines) is a 15-minute walk to Nationals Park. Union Station, a major transportation hub, is also located here.

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Arrival and exit strategy

Transit and approach

Nationals Park is accessible via the Metro Green Line at the Navy Yard-Ballpark station, which is one block away from the center field gate. Fans can also use the Orange, Blue or Silver Lines to the Capitol South station, which is a 15-minute walk to the park. Several Metrobus routes (e.g., 74, P17, P19, C11, C31, C55) and the DC Circulator bus (from Union Station) serve the area.

Rideshare and parking

Rideshare: The primary designated rideshare drop-off and pick-up area is located at the corner of First Street and Potomac Avenue SE, just steps from the park's gates. Suggested Uber pickup locations include N St. SE and New Jersey Ave. SE; L St. SE between First St SE and New Jersey Ave. SE; and M St. SE and Half St. SE.

Parking: All Nationals parking garages and lots are cashless. They open two and a half hours before the start of every game and close one hour after the final out. Fans are strongly encouraged to purchase parking in advance to ensure availability.

After the event

The Navy Yard neighborhood surrounding Nationals Park offers a vibrant bar and restaurant scene suitable for post-game late-night activities. The Diamond Club bar inside the stadium continues alcohol sales for about 30 minutes after the game concludes.

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Map context

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The game-day experience

  • Atmosphere area: Nationals Park is situated in the Navy Yard neighborhood of Southeast Washington, D.C., along the Anacostia River waterfront. It is part of the Capitol Riverfront area, a rapidly developing mixed-use district south of the Capitol.
  • Tailgating: Tailgating is not permitted in any Nationals Park garage or lot.
  • Signature food: Popular food items include half-smokes from Ben's Chili Bowl, Salvadoran pupusas from La Casita Pupuseria, Korean hot dogs from Ssongs, Roaming Rooster's fried chicken sandwiches, Rocklands barbecue, and Capital City Mambo Sauce. Ahi tuna nachos at Kam & 46 are also a mentioned favorite.
  • Fan tradition: Local fan traditions include taking photos with the Racing Presidents and kids participating in 'Kids Run the Bases' after Sunday home games.
  • Pregame institution: The Salt Line (79 Potomac Ave SE, Washington, DC 20003)

Where to eat and drink nearby

Pregame picks

  • Walter's Sports Bar
    10 N St SE, Washington, DC 20003 · Navy Yard

    Fans choose their adventure with 24 self-pour taps and settle in for a marathon of sports across 30 TVs inside and out, including a 220-inch video screen. It's known for its loyal crew of Nationals die-hards.

    What to order: Beers from the self-pour taps, classic bar food, $5 beers, rail cocktails, and glasses of wine during happy hour.

  • Tom's Watch Bar
    1250 Half St SE, Washington, DC 20003 · Navy Yard

    Known as 'Navy Yard's Biggest Sports Party,' it boasts over 50 beers, 50 screens, and 50 specialty cocktails, showing 'Every Game. Every Day. All The Games That Matter.' It's considered the best place for Capitals and Wizards fans in Navy Yard.

    What to order: Elevated sports bar classics, chef-driven dishes, bold and crave-worthy flavors, ice-cold beer, handcrafted cocktails, or refreshing seltzers.

  • Solace Outpost
    71 Potomac Ave SE, Washington, D.C. 20003 · Navy Yard

    This craft brewery offers a fantastic game-day experience with a great selection of craft brews and a solid menu of fan favorites. It is also an official Washington Spirit Bar Network partner.

    What to order: Craft brews, fried chicken, tater tots, jumbo pretzels.

  • Dacha Beer Garden
    79 Potomac Ave SE, Washington, D.C. 20003 · Navy Yard

    This spacious riverfront beer garden can accommodate up to 700 people and is directly across from Nationals Park, making it a lively pre-game spot. It's also an official Washington Spirit Bar Network partner.

    What to order: Beers, simple outdoor menu.