The Ultimate Fan Guide To Kauffman Stadium

Every hidden nook, cranny, and secret value at the Kansas City Royals' ballpark. By the fans, for the fans.

Whether you're an out-of-towner visiting Kauffman Stadium and looking for tips, or you're a local who wants to make sure you're getting the most out of your experience at this elite ballpark, we've got you covered.

This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step of the Kauffman Stadium experience, but should you have additional recommendations or suggestions, please use the comment fields found below this article. Enjoy and have a great time at Kauffman Stadium!

Table of Contents (click to jump to section)

• Kauffman Stadium Facts and Specs
• Best Places to Park Around Kauffman Stadium
• Best Seats at Kauffman Stadium
• Best Food at Kauffman Stadium
• Best Bars at Kauffman Stadium, Ranked
• Secret Gems of Kauffman Stadium
• Self-Guided Kauffman Stadium Walking Tour
• Kauffman Stadium Fan FAQs

Kauffman Stadium Facts and Specs

• Address: One Royal Way, Kansas City, MO 64129
• Opened: April 10th, 1973
• Capacity: 37,903
• Gates Open:
  • Friday-Sunday Games: All gates will open 1.5 hours prior to game time. Gate C opens 2 hours prior to CommunityAmerica Credit Union Crown Club ticket holders (Sections 1 - 6) only.
  • Monday-Thursday Games: All gates will open 1 hour prior to game time. Gate C opens 2 hours prior to CommunityAmerica Credit Union Crown Club ticket holders (Sections 1 - 6) only.
• Dimensions
  • Left-field line: 347 feet
  • Left-center field: 379 feet
  • Center field: 410 feet
  • Right-center field:379 feet
  • Right-field line: 344 feet
• Playing Surface: Kentucky bluegrass / Perennial ryegrass

Best Places To Park Around Kauffman Stadium

Due to its remote location, there are few alternatives to the parking lots at the Truman Sports Complex. Limited parking is available at a nearby church across from the complex, but the cost and safety concerns are often not worth it. For Opening Day and playoff games, some local residents will charge for parking, but it can be quite a walk to the stadium.

Inside the complex, parking is as follows:

Online in Advance: General Parking pass is $21, Reserved Parking pass is $36, and an Oversized Vehicle Parking pass is $41.

On Gameday: $30 for General, $45 for Reserved, or $50 for Oversized Vehicle. Fans can pay via credit card at the designated toll booths at Gates 2–4, 5, or 6.

Best Seats At Kauffman Stadium

This is all a matter of personal preference. Some people love to sit right on top of the action, while others prefer the upper deck to see a wider view. Of course, price is always a factor, whether you are purchasing directly from the Royals or through a reseller, where you can often find bargains, especially as the first pitch gets closer. Typically, it's pretty easy to get a ticket, even close to first pitch, with the exception of games against major rivals (Yankees and Cardinals) or opponents with big-name players (Dodgers). 

I have never had a bad seat at Kauffman Stadium, but there are a few caveats.

• If you sit in the left-field Sonic Slam seats (101, 102, 103), the seats above the visitor's bullpen (104, 105, 106), the Miller Lite Fountains seats (201, 202, 203), or the seats in right field above the Royals bullpen (250-252 and 150-152), you will have a limited view of the Crown Vision over the center field wall, which is where most of the game information is located. There is a disclaimer when you buy these tickets online and on the ticket in the MLB Ballpark app.
• If you are attending a day game, any outfield seats and the lower levels will be in the sun. The view box area will start out in the sun, but will get shade later in the game, depending on the time of first pitch. View reserved will typically be in the shade for the entire game. The same is true for the Loge area (300s), which benefits from an overhang. 

Don’t forget that there are some policies about what you can and can’t bring into the stadium. You can check those out here.

There are some fun places to watch the game, but for a premium price. Here are some of those premium ticket areas. 

Community America Crown Club

These seats are directly behind home plate. In addition to the fantastic view, tickets in this section give you access to the climate-controlled lounge, where you can enjoy complimentary food, beverages (including alcoholic), and seating. You also get the benefit of in-seat service, where ushers deliver food and beverages to your seats. 

UMB Diamond Club

You don't get complimentary food and beverage, but you still get access to a Diamond Club-specific lounge and in-seat service (though you have to pay at the end of the meal). Diamond Club tickets often come with a certain amount of concession credit as well, though that depends on the game and section within the Diamond Club. 

Lexus Complete Seats

Located in sections 322-325, these all-inclusive tickets provide unlimited access to a specific concession stand featuring ballpark staples such as hot dogs, popcorn, nachos, and peanuts. Unlimited soft drinks are included as well. 

In addition to premium seating, the Royals offer a lot of "social spaces", which are ideal for groups, especially those over 21 years of age. Here is a list of those social spaces within Kauffman Stadium

Craft and Draft

Located in the Loge area on the third-base side, the Craft and Draft section is open to all fans within the stadium. There is a first-come, first-served seating for those who wish to watch the game in the area and enjoy food and beverages. However, there are ticketed seats that fans can buy that guarantee a spot at the lower end of that section.

There are two types of tickets in the Craft and Draft section: Craft and Draft Seats and Craft and Draft Tables. Seats include in-seat service and an assigned seat in a chair with a bar rail. Tables offer the same in-seat service with assigned seating for two. For those who like to stand up and move around, the tables option may be better. 

All Craft and Draft seats come with $20 of "loaded value", which can be used to purchase food or beverages inside the Craft and Draft. 

QuikTrip Fountain Seats

These seats are in the right-field area and include all-you-can-eat food and beverages (including alcoholic beverages) and access to a revamped lounge located just past the center-field wall, in front of the Crown Vision board. Seating is limited to one row, but there is a railing to lean on, and the lounge has access to televisions. The menu includes a hot dog station, a nacho bar, hot appetizers, domestic and imported beers, and seltzers. 

Brew and View

The Brew and View section is located in 401 and 402 and is a social space where you get a game ticket and a 24-oz domestic beer. There are two rows of limited seating and three rows of bar tables, which allow for standing and socializing during the game. There is a concession stand dedicated to the Brew and View, where fans can purchase additional beverages and snacks. 

Rivals Sports Bar

This Rival Sports Bar, located above the right field bullpen, is open to the public. Fans can purchase tickets in the bar section, which includes $20 in loaded value that can be spent on food or beverages. Like Craft and Draft, there are two types of tickets in this section: Rivals Seats and Tables. Seats are individual seats with a bar rail, while the table provides assigned seating for four. 

Royals Tavern Tables

The Tavern Tables are located in the upper section of 239-241. They are meant to seat four and include a custom specialty pizza and a bucket of 12 oz. beers (4 beers in total). Fans in this section also get in-seat service and access to an exclusive mobile ordering system. 

For more information on the different sections and seating within Kauffman Stadium, check out the guide to Royals Season Tickets. 

Best Food At Kauffman Stadium

Do you like food? Of course you do. Why else would you be in this section? Anything said after this point comes with the stipulation that you will pay more than you should for anything you eat at Kauffman Stadium. That is a big reason for the tailgating culture at Kauffman: many fans, especially those coming in large groups, are more likely to grill out in the parking lot before a game, particularly on weekends. That said, here are some great food options at Kauffman Stadium.

New for 2026

Local Hawaiian restaurant chain Hawaiian Bros will be serving their plate lunch specials, which include a meat, rice, and macaroni salad, as well as Dole Whip, a Hawaiian chilled dessert. Fans can grab fresh and delicious Hawaiian cuisine behind Homeplate near the Royals Team Store, both inside and outside the Diamond Club

Hey Batter, Batter is a new stand serving different kinds of corn dogs, both sweet and savory. They are located across section 240 in the lower concourse. 

For those looking for quick convenience, The Walk Off is a grab-and-go stand offering all kinds of typical ballpark specials, including hot dogs, popcorn, pizza, and pretzels. Fans will be able to scan their credit/debit card for entry, grab what they need, and check out at the exit, where their card will be charged.  This is perfect for those who know what they want and don't want to spend a whole lot of time.

Stadium Staples

The food at Kauffman Stadium has improved dramatically in the past few seasons. After being more generic in their options for years, the Royals have opted for more local options within the ballpark. That includes more KC BBQ options and stands that are extensions of local Kansas City restaurants. That includes forays into Mexican, Italian, and desserts. 

The lower concourse tends to have the most diverse concession options available. However, fans can find a lot of their ballpark favorites in the Outfield Experience and upper concourse areas. Here is a list of some places to visit at Kauffman Stadium.

Value Menu Stands: These stands include options $5 or less. They are often located within the Ballpark Favorites and Hot Corner Grill stands. Options include hot dogs, popcorn, pretzels, peanuts, and 12 oz. cans of Miller Lite beer. 

Locations: sections 120, 135, 201, 213, 242, 405, 417, and 422

Joe's Kansas City Bar-B-Que: New in 2025, this is an extension of one of Kansas City's most popular and highly rated BBQ spots (the one at the gas station). Fans can purchase the world-famous classic Z-Man Sandwich (slow-smoked beef brisket, smoked provolone, topped with two crispy onion rings on a toasted Kaiser roll), a Chicken Z-Man (smoked, pulled chicken and BBQ mayo, smoked provolone, topped with two crispy onion rings on a toasted Kaiser roll), and onion rings. 

Locations: Right field area adjacent to the outfield experience

Pasquantino's: This stand offers one item: Vinnie’s Italian Beef Pasqwich. It is a shaved Italian Beef topped with two slices of Provolone Cheese, Two Strips of Bacon, Crispy Hash Brown Patties, and Giardiniera Aioli, all served on a buttered, grilled brioche bun. It's a bit pricey at nearly $25 with tax, but it can satisfy the hungriest of appetites. Proceeds benefit the Kansas City Royals Foundation and Wayside Waifs.

Locations: Section 208

Italian Sausage Co.: An extension of the shop in the Northland area of Kansas City, the Italian Sausage Co. offers locally made, freshly grilled pork and chicken Italian sausages, served with grilled onions and peppers. They also offer Italian Sausage nachos, featuring crumbled Italian sausage, sliced banana peppers, olives, and cheese sauce on chips. 

Locations: Section 234

KCQ - Local Craft BBQ: This stand features rotating local craft BBQ restaurants, including Chef J's and SMOAK Craft BBQ. Items often include meat platters featuring KC favorites such as brisket, pulled pork, and spare ribs. This is a great spot for those who want to taste more local BBQ and watch a Royals game at Kauffman Stadium at the same time. 

Locations: Sections 216 and 232.

Andy’s Frozen Custard: A local favorite, starting in Springfield, Missouri, offers half-pints in chocolate malt, vanilla, Forever Blue, and Oreo. 

Locations: In Hot Corner Grills in sections 221 and 234, Price Chopper Market Place, and Diamond Club.

Bases Loaded Nachos: A stand that focuses on shareable nachos with Tostitos chips and a choice of BBQ Pulled Pork or taco beef, served with shredded lettuce, green onions, salsa Verde, queso Blanco, cilantro-lime sour cream, and shredded cheese.

Location: Section 234

Belfonte Ice Cream: Another local ice cream favorite, sundaes and milkshakes are available at the main store in the outfield experience. Belfonte pints are typically available in most Ballpark Favorites and Hot Corner Grill stands throughout the stadium.

Locations: Ice Cream Shop located behind Crown Vision in the Outfield Experience

Brisket-Acho: A food item specific to Kauffman Stadium, it's nachos in a helmet with a KC twist. It includes chopped brisket, BBQ baked beans, cheesy corn, coleslaw, and BBQ sauce all over a bed of corn tortilla chips.

Locations: Sections 221, 234, 251, 417, 422

Bullpen Burgers and Shakes: This stand is ideal for those who crave a classic grilled burger, fries, and a shake. 

Locations: Sections 250, 308, and 413

Chickie & Pete's: Kauffman Stadium is one of two places in Kansas City where you can get this Philly classic. They serve cheesestakes, wings, and their famous Crab Fries. 

Location: Section 216

Tender Love and Chicken: Chicken tenders are as much of a staple at a ball game as hot dogs now, and this place does them right. They feature gourmet chicken tenders and ranch-dusted fries with a variety of dipping sauces.

Location: Section 206, 308 & 427

Best Bars "Near" Kauffman Stadium

Due to the remote location of Kauffman Stadium and the Truman Sports Complex, there aren't any bar options within walking distance. However, for those carpooling and staying/hanging around the Downtown Kansas City area, there are some bars that could be great pre-game or post-game spots. Just make sure to have a designated driver or get an Uber if you plan on hitting these places up!

The Peanut: There are many locations of The Peanut, but this one in downtown Kansas City is a nice divey spot that has great happy hour specials and is famous for its massive chicken wings. This is a great spot for bar food, cheap pitchers, and watching a bunch of games, with plenty of TV screens.

Address: 418 W 9th St, Kansas City, MO 64105

Website: http://www.peanutkc.com/

Jim's Alley Bar: The Crossroads is an area right off the Streetcar line and is known for a plethora of microbreweries in close distance. However, one place that isn't a brewery but is worth the stop is Jim's. It's a small, dark place with great vibes, as if you've stepped into a 70's joint.  They also have a solid selection of food, with their Italian Beef as their signature item. If you like cheap yard beers and dive cocktails, this is a great spot. 

Address: 500 E 18th St #103, Kansas City, MO 64108

Website: https://www.jimsalleybar.com/

Lucky Boys: Located in the West Bottoms near the old Kemper Arena, this cozy dive bar has billiards, cheap drinks, and a retro vibe. They offer a simple and affordable menu with cheeseburgers, chicken sandwiches, and fries. You can also order pizza from the pizzeria next door, Fortunati, and they will deliver it to the bar.

Address: 1615 Genessee St, Kansas City, MO 64102

Website: https://www.instagram.com/luckyboyskc/

403 Club: Do you like pinball? Well, you will love this bar. With 11 games in top condition, fans can get some pinball action on before they head to the K for a game. Or you can unwind with pinball after a Royals game. The 403 Club also has cheap drinks, a vast selection of Craft beers (including Boulevard ones that are hard to find in other bars), and $3 PBR tall boys on special. 

Address: 614 Reynolds Ave, Kansas City, KS 66101

Website: https://403club.com/

The Green Lady Lounge: What's a trip to Kansas City without some live jazz music? Green Lady is the spot for that, with live jazz music seven days a week. Enjoy a nice cocktail and wind down with some jazz music after a game before you call it an evening in downtown Kansas City. 

Address: 1809 Grand Blvd, Kansas City, MO 64108

Website: https://greenladylounge.com/

The Belfry: A variety of experiences in one unique place. In addition to an excellent whiskey and rotating beer selection, chef/owner Celina Tio, a James Beard Award-winning chef, offers a menu featuring fresh, seasonal ingredients and affordable prices. Furthermore, within the area is Gerarad's pool hall, with plenty of tables for patrons to play on. 

Address: 1532 Grand Blvd, E 16th St entrance, Kansas City, MO 64108

Website: https://www.belfrycollective.com/

Kelly's Westport Inn: One of the oldest Irish pubs in Kansas City. It's a bit further out of the way, located in Westport. However, it's only a short streetcar ride from downtown. Friday nights, they have $2 domestics and $2 wells, making it a nice stop on the way home from a game, especially for those who want to keep the night going. They also have live music on the weekends. 

Address: 500 Westport Rd, Kansas City, MO 64111

Website: https://kellyswestportinn.com/

Secret Gems Of Kauffman Stadium

The Royals Hall of Fame: Located in the Outfield Experience, the Royals Hall of Fame is a must-see for any first-time visitor to Kauffman Stadium. Inside the Hall of Fame, which is typically open when the gates open, fans can access a variety of exhibits that highlight the rich history of not only the Kansas City Royals but also baseball in Kansas City. Also, there are many old photos and videos highlighting the Royals' history, including recaps of the 1985 and 2015 World Series championship runs. There is also a special room that houses the two World Series trophies and a dedicated exhibit to George Brett, the only Royals player enshrined in the National Baseball Hall of Fame. Lastly, all 31 members of the Royals Hall of Fame have a plaque dedicated to them inside. 

The Outfield Experience: With the 2009 renovations, there is plenty to enjoy here for all ages. Features include "The Little K", which is a youth baseball field geared for various baseball activities, a batting cage, a pitching cage, a merry-go-around, a mini-golf course, and a special stage, with various acts playing before Sunday afternoon games. There are also various statues in the Outfield Experience, including those of the Kauffmans (Ewing and Muriel, the Royals' first owners), George Brett, Dick Howser, and Frank White. The latter three are players whose numbers have been retired by the Kansas City Royals. Lastly, Royals fans can check out the signature fountains in the Outfield Experience and not only get splashed, but also get a tremendous view of the stadium. 

Dollar Dog Tuesday: Every first Tuesday of the month, regular hot dogs are $1. They can be found at all Ballpark Favorites and Hot Corner Grill stands throughout the stadium. Fans can buy up to four dollar hot dogs at a time. 

Self-Guided Kauffman Stadium Walking Tour

Coming soon!

Kauffman Stadium Fan FAQs

There is a lot to know when going to Kauffman Stadium. You can find a full list here,  but we will address some key items below.

What time do the gates open?

Friday - Sunday Games: All gates will open 1.5 hours prior to game time. Gate C opens 2 hours prior to CommunityAmerica Credit Union Crown Club ticket holders (Sections 1 - 6) only.

Monday - Thursday Games: All gates will open 1 hour prior to game time. Gate C opens 2 hours prior to CommunityAmerica Credit Union Crown Club ticket holders (Sections 1 - 6) only.

What types of bags can I bring in?

The following bags are allowed at Kauffman Stadium:

• (1) Clear bag no larger than 12” x 12” x 6” with all items inside easily visible.
• One-gallon clear zip-seal bag (Ziploc® bag or similar).
• Small clutch bags that do not exceed 9" x 5", with or without a handle or strap, may be carried into the stadium along with one of the clear bag options.

An exception may be made for medical reasons or manufactured diaper bags that accompany infants and young children after proper inspection.

Can I watch batting practice?

Normally, the Royals conduct batting practice from 4:30 p.m. to 5:25 p.m. while visiting teams hit from 5:30 p.m. to 6:25 p.m. for a 7:10 p.m. game. The Royals hit from 4:00 p.m. to 4:55 p.m. and visiting teams hit from 5:00 p.m. to 5:55 p.m. for a 6:40 p.m. game. The Royals take BP from 3:30 p.m. to 4:25 p.m. and visiting teams from 4:30 p.m. to 5:25 p.m. for a 6:10 p.m. game. The Royals hit from 12:25 p.m. to 1:25 p.m. and visiting teams hit from 1:30 p.m. to 2:25 p.m. for a 3:10 p.m. game. The Royals hit from 10:30 a.m. to 11:25 a.m. and visiting teams hit from 11:30 a.m. to 12:25 p.m. for a 1:10 p.m. game.

Batting practice times are subject to change or cancellation based on weather. Early Entry passes can be purchased to watch the Royals' batting practice for certain games (typically on later-start games). Those can be found on the Royals' tickets site. 

When can I tour Kauffman Stadium?

The Royals offer daily public pregame tours both in-season and in the offseason. They also offer educational tours and experiences for students and small groups through the Scholastic Victory Program. Tickets or information about these excursions and experiences can be found here.  

Where can I park my bicycle?

Guests who wish to bike to the ballpark may lock their bikes on the media fence in Lot B, near the designated signage. Parking fees are waived for those who bike to Kauffman Stadium.

What animals are allowed inside the stadium?

Guests are permitted to bring service animals into the Truman Sports Complex and Kauffman Stadium. Guests are required to notify staff upon entry if a service animal is present for record-keeping purposes.

Please note that pets/animals are not allowed into the Truman Sports Complex or inside Kauffman Stadium unless they are service animals. Pets/animals left inside vehicles while on the Truman Sports Complex may be subject to animal cruelty violations from the Kansas City Animal Control Department. There are special "Bark at the Park" nights where fans may bring their dogs and sit in a designated section (typically the 200s section by the Royals Hall of Fame). 

Ballpark food is expensive. Can I bring my own food into the stadium?

Yes. Guests are permitted to bring food in a clear plastic bag, no larger than 1 gallon, that resembles an individual portion. Guests may bring unfrozen water into the stadium, provided it is in a sealed/unopened plastic bottle of 1 liter or smaller (one per person). Soft-sided single-juice or milk containers, or ADA-required liquids, may also be allowed. Hard-sided coolers, alcoholic beverages, or other non-clear liquid containers are not permitted.

Is there wi-fi?

Yes. Kauffman Stadium offers free, venue-wide Wi-Fi for fans, accessible by connecting to the "RoyalsWiFi" network on mobile devices.

What happens if I lose my phone, wallet, or purse (or anything else)?

If you have lost or found something, go to one of the Guest Services offices, located on the Plaza Level behind the Diamond Club Lobby or on the View Level behind home plate in section 420. To inquire about lost or found items after a game, please call 816-504-4201 from 9 am to 5 pm, Monday through Friday. They keep every lost item for up to 30 days. If unclaimed, items will be donated to charity after 30 days.