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SHADE GUIDE

Nationals Park

Washington Nationals•MLB

Washington, DC

41,313 seats

30° orientation

Open Air

Built 2008

Nationals Park stadium information: Home of the Washington Nationals in MLB. Located in Washington, DC with a capacity of 41,313 seats. The stadium has open air and faces 30 degrees. Built in 2008.

For a day game at Nationals Park, the behind home plate falls into shade first. The coolest seats are on that side, in the back rows under the upper-deck overhang, and in any fully covered or club-level sections. Evening games leave most of the park shaded by first pitch. See how we calculate this.

At a glance: pick a game time

Sun: W · 22° above the horizon

DateTime: 6:30 PM

Shaded (10)
Light sun (95)
Moderate sun (43)
Full sun (22)

Best Shaded Seats at Nationals Park

Based on stadium orientation and historical data, these sections offer the most shade:

#1

Presidents Club 201

Level: club
✓ Covered
Price: premium

Guaranteed shade — fully covered seating

#2

Presidents Club 202

Level: club
✓ Covered
Price: premium

Guaranteed shade — fully covered seating

#3

Presidents Club 203

Level: club
✓ Covered
Price: premium

Guaranteed shade — fully covered seating

#4

Presidents Club 204

Level: club
✓ Covered
Price: premium

Guaranteed shade — fully covered seating

#5

Presidents Club 205

Level: club
✓ Covered
Price: premium

Guaranteed shade — fully covered seating

#6

Mezzanine 301

Level: upper
◐ Covered back rows only
Price: value

Shade in the back rows under the overhang; front rows exposed

#7

Mezzanine 302

Level: upper
◐ Covered back rows only
Price: value

Shade in the back rows under the overhang; front rows exposed

#8

Mezzanine 303

Level: upper
◐ Covered back rows only
Price: value

Shade in the back rows under the overhang; front rows exposed

#9

Mezzanine 306

Level: upper
Price: value

#10

Mezzanine 307

Level: upper
Price: value

Seasonal Shade Patterns

Shade availability varies significantly throughout the baseball season:

April

Lower sun angle — more shade available, especially in afternoon games

Recommendations:

April: Sun sits lower on the horizon — most stadiums see more natural shade, especially during afternoon games

May

Sun angle rising — shade coverage decreases, evening games best for comfort

Recommendations:

May: Sun angle climbs rapidly, shrinking shade coverage; evening games retain more shade than day games

June

Near summer solstice — fewest shaded seats, covered sections essential

Recommendations:

June: Highest sun angle of the season near the summer solstice — minimal shade during day games, covered seats strongly recommended

July

Peak summer - maximum sun exposure

Recommendations:

July: Peak sun — day games see the least shade of the year; covered or back-row seats essential

August

Late summer - intense afternoon sun

Recommendations:

August: Still-intense afternoon sun; upper-deck back rows and covered sections stay coolest

September

Early fall - decreasing sun angle

Recommendations:

September: Sun angle dropping — natural shade returns, especially for late-afternoon starts

October

Playoff season - comfortable temperatures

Recommendations:

Fall: Lower sun angle provides more natural shade across the bowl

Shade by Game Time

1:00 PM Games

Maximum sun exposure - shade essential

Best Sections:

Upper deck sections (maximum elevation)
Covered/Club level areas
Behind home plate

4:00 PM Games

Afternoon sun on the outfield (center field) side

Best Sections:

Behind home plate
Behind home plate (upper levels)
Covered concourse areas

7:00 PM Games

Sunset glare possible in outfield sections

Best Sections:

Most sections have shade by first pitch
Avoid outfield for sunset glare
Any covered section for guaranteed comfort

All Sections Shade Analysis

Section	Level	Coverage	Shade Rating	Best Time	Notes
Diamond Club 12	field	— Exposed	★☆☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — little to no shade
Diamond Club 13	field	— Exposed	★☆☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — little to no shade
Diamond Club 14	field	— Exposed	★☆☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — little to no shade
Diamond Club 15	field	— Exposed	★☆☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — little to no shade
Infield Box 16	field	— Exposed	★☆☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — little to no shade
Infield Box 17	field	— Exposed	★☆☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — little to no shade
Infield Box 18	field	— Exposed	★☆☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — little to no shade
Infield Box 19	field	— Exposed	★☆☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — little to no shade
Infield Box 20	field	— Exposed	★☆☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — little to no shade
Infield Box 21	field	— Exposed	★☆☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — little to no shade
Infield Box 22	field	— Exposed	★☆☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — little to no shade
Infield Box 23	field	— Exposed	★☆☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — little to no shade
Infield Box 24	field	— Exposed	★☆☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — little to no shade
Infield Box 25	field	— Exposed	★☆☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — little to no shade
Infield Box 26	field	— Exposed	★☆☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — little to no shade
Infield Box 27	field	— Exposed	★☆☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — little to no shade
Infield Box 28	field	— Exposed	★☆☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — little to no shade
Infield Box 29	field	— Exposed	★☆☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — little to no shade
Infield Box 30	field	— Exposed	★☆☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — little to no shade
Outfield Box 31	field	— Exposed	★☆☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — little to no shade
Outfield Box 32	field	— Exposed	★☆☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — little to no shade
Outfield Box 33	field	— Exposed	★☆☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — little to no shade
Outfield Box 34	field	— Exposed	★☆☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — little to no shade
Outfield Box 35	field	— Exposed	★☆☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — little to no shade
Outfield Box 36	field	— Exposed	★☆☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — little to no shade
Outfield Box 37	field	— Exposed	★☆☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — little to no shade
Outfield Box 38	field	— Exposed	★☆☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — little to no shade
Outfield Box 39	field	— Exposed	★☆☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — little to no shade
Outfield Box 40	field	— Exposed	★☆☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — little to no shade
Outfield Box 41	field	— Exposed	★☆☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — little to no shade
Outfield Box 42	field	— Exposed	★☆☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — little to no shade
Outfield Box 43	field	— Exposed	★☆☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — little to no shade
Outfield Box 44	field	— Exposed	★☆☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — little to no shade
Outfield Box 45	field	— Exposed	★☆☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — little to no shade
Gallery 101	lower	— Exposed	★☆☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — little to no shade
Gallery 102	lower	— Exposed	★☆☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — little to no shade
Gallery 103	lower	— Exposed	★☆☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — little to no shade
Gallery 104	lower	— Exposed	★☆☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — little to no shade
Gallery 105	lower	— Exposed	★☆☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — little to no shade
Gallery 106	lower	— Exposed	★☆☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — little to no shade
Gallery 107	lower	— Exposed	★☆☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — little to no shade
Gallery 108	lower	— Exposed	★☆☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — little to no shade
Gallery 109	lower	— Exposed	★☆☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — little to no shade
Gallery 110	lower	— Exposed	★☆☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — little to no shade
Gallery 111	lower	— Exposed	★☆☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — little to no shade
Gallery 112	lower	— Exposed	★☆☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — little to no shade
Gallery 113	lower	— Exposed	★☆☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — little to no shade
Gallery 114	lower	— Exposed	★☆☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — little to no shade
Gallery 115	lower	— Exposed	★☆☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — little to no shade
Gallery 116	lower	— Exposed	★☆☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — little to no shade
Gallery 117	lower	— Exposed	★☆☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — little to no shade
Gallery 118	lower	— Exposed	★☆☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — little to no shade
Gallery 119	lower	— Exposed	★☆☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — little to no shade
Gallery 120	lower	— Exposed	★☆☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — little to no shade
Gallery 121	lower	— Exposed	★☆☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — little to no shade
Gallery 122	lower	— Exposed	★☆☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — little to no shade
Gallery 123	lower	— Exposed	★☆☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — little to no shade
Gallery 124	lower	— Exposed	★☆☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — little to no shade
Gallery 125	lower	— Exposed	★☆☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — little to no shade
Gallery 126	lower	— Exposed	★☆☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — little to no shade
Gallery 127	lower	— Exposed	★☆☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — little to no shade
Gallery 128	lower	— Exposed	★☆☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — little to no shade
Gallery 129	lower	— Exposed	★☆☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — little to no shade
Gallery 130	lower	— Exposed	★☆☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — little to no shade
Gallery 131	lower	— Exposed	★☆☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — little to no shade
Gallery 132	lower	— Exposed	★☆☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — little to no shade
Gallery 133	lower	— Exposed	★☆☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — little to no shade
Gallery 134	lower	— Exposed	★☆☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — little to no shade
Gallery 135	lower	— Exposed	★☆☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — little to no shade
Gallery 136	lower	— Exposed	★☆☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — little to no shade
Gallery 137	lower	— Exposed	★☆☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — little to no shade
Gallery 138	lower	— Exposed	★☆☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — little to no shade
Gallery 139	lower	— Exposed	★☆☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — little to no shade
Gallery 140	lower	— Exposed	★☆☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — little to no shade
Gallery 141	lower	— Exposed	★☆☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — little to no shade
Gallery 142	lower	— Exposed	★☆☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — little to no shade
Gallery 143	lower	— Exposed	★☆☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — little to no shade
Gallery 144	lower	— Exposed	★☆☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — little to no shade
Gallery 145	lower	— Exposed	★☆☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — little to no shade
Gallery 146	lower	— Exposed	★☆☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — little to no shade
Presidents Club 201	club	✓ Covered	★★★★★	All day	Guaranteed shade — fully covered
Presidents Club 202	club	✓ Covered	★★★★★	All day	Guaranteed shade — fully covered
Presidents Club 203	club	✓ Covered	★★★★★	All day	Guaranteed shade — fully covered
Presidents Club 204	club	✓ Covered	★★★★★	All day	Guaranteed shade — fully covered
Presidents Club 205	club	✓ Covered	★★★★★	All day	Guaranteed shade — fully covered
Presidents Club 206	club	— Exposed	★☆☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — little to no shade
Presidents Club 207	club	— Exposed	★☆☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — little to no shade
Presidents Club 208	club	— Exposed	★☆☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — little to no shade
Presidents Club 209	club	— Exposed	★☆☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — little to no shade
Presidents Club 210	club	— Exposed	★☆☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — little to no shade
Presidents Club 211	club	— Exposed	★☆☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — little to no shade
Presidents Club 212	club	— Exposed	★☆☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — little to no shade
Presidents Club 213	club	— Exposed	★☆☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — little to no shade
Presidents Club 214	club	— Exposed	★☆☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — little to no shade
Presidents Club 215	club	— Exposed	★☆☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — little to no shade
Presidents Club 216	club	— Exposed	★☆☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — little to no shade
Presidents Club 217	club	— Exposed	★☆☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — little to no shade
Presidents Club 218	club	— Exposed	★☆☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — little to no shade
Presidents Club 219	club	— Exposed	★☆☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — little to no shade
Presidents Club 220	club	— Exposed	★☆☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — little to no shade
Presidents Club 221	club	— Exposed	★☆☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — little to no shade
Presidents Club 222	club	— Exposed	★☆☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — little to no shade
Presidents Club 223	club	— Exposed	★☆☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — little to no shade
Presidents Club 224	club	— Exposed	★☆☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — little to no shade
Presidents Club 225	club	— Exposed	★☆☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — little to no shade
Presidents Club 226	club	— Exposed	★☆☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — little to no shade
Presidents Club 227	club	— Exposed	★☆☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — little to no shade
Presidents Club 228	club	— Exposed	★☆☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — little to no shade
Presidents Club 229	club	— Exposed	★☆☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — little to no shade
Presidents Club 230	club	— Exposed	★☆☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — little to no shade
Presidents Club 231	club	— Exposed	★☆☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — little to no shade
Presidents Club 232	club	— Exposed	★☆☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — little to no shade
Presidents Club 233	club	— Exposed	★☆☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — little to no shade
Presidents Club 234	club	— Exposed	★☆☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — little to no shade
Presidents Club 235	club	— Exposed	★☆☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — little to no shade
Presidents Club 236	club	— Exposed	★☆☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — little to no shade
Presidents Club 237	club	— Exposed	★☆☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — little to no shade
Presidents Club 238	club	— Exposed	★☆☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — little to no shade
Presidents Club 239	club	— Exposed	★☆☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — little to no shade
Presidents Club 240	club	— Exposed	★☆☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — little to no shade
Presidents Club 241	club	— Exposed	★☆☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — little to no shade
Presidents Club 242	club	— Exposed	★☆☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — little to no shade
Presidents Club 243	club	— Exposed	★☆☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — little to no shade
Presidents Club 244	club	— Exposed	★☆☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — little to no shade
Mezzanine 301	upper	◐ back rows	★★★☆☆	Day games (back rows)	Overhang shade in the back rows only; front rows exposed
Mezzanine 302	upper	◐ back rows	★★★☆☆	Day games (back rows)	Overhang shade in the back rows only; front rows exposed
Mezzanine 303	upper	◐ back rows	★★★☆☆	Day games (back rows)	Overhang shade in the back rows only; front rows exposed
Mezzanine 304	upper	◐ back rows	★★★☆☆	Day games (back rows)	Overhang shade in the back rows only; front rows exposed
Mezzanine 305	upper	◐ back rows	★★★☆☆	Day games (back rows)	Overhang shade in the back rows only; front rows exposed
Mezzanine 306	upper	— Exposed	★★☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — some relief from self-shading late in the game
Mezzanine 307	upper	— Exposed	★★☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — some relief from self-shading late in the game
Mezzanine 308	upper	— Exposed	★★☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — some relief from self-shading late in the game
Mezzanine 309	upper	— Exposed	★★☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — some relief from self-shading late in the game
Mezzanine 310	upper	— Exposed	★★☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — some relief from self-shading late in the game
Mezzanine 311	upper	— Exposed	★★☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — some relief from self-shading late in the game
Mezzanine 312	upper	— Exposed	★★☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — some relief from self-shading late in the game
Mezzanine 313	upper	— Exposed	★★☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — some relief from self-shading late in the game
Mezzanine 314	upper	— Exposed	★★☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — some relief from self-shading late in the game
Mezzanine 315	upper	— Exposed	★★☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — some relief from self-shading late in the game
Mezzanine 316	upper	— Exposed	★★☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — some relief from self-shading late in the game
Mezzanine 317	upper	— Exposed	★★☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — some relief from self-shading late in the game
Mezzanine 318	upper	— Exposed	★★☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — some relief from self-shading late in the game
Mezzanine 319	upper	— Exposed	★★☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — some relief from self-shading late in the game
Mezzanine 320	upper	— Exposed	★★☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — some relief from self-shading late in the game
Mezzanine 321	upper	— Exposed	★★☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — some relief from self-shading late in the game
Mezzanine 322	upper	— Exposed	★★☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — some relief from self-shading late in the game
Mezzanine 323	upper	— Exposed	★★☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — some relief from self-shading late in the game
Mezzanine 324	upper	— Exposed	★★☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — some relief from self-shading late in the game
Mezzanine 325	upper	— Exposed	★★☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — some relief from self-shading late in the game
Mezzanine 326	upper	— Exposed	★★☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — some relief from self-shading late in the game
Mezzanine 327	upper	— Exposed	★★☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — some relief from self-shading late in the game
Mezzanine 328	upper	— Exposed	★★☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — some relief from self-shading late in the game
Mezzanine 329	upper	— Exposed	★★☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — some relief from self-shading late in the game
Mezzanine 330	upper	— Exposed	★★☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — some relief from self-shading late in the game
Mezzanine 331	upper	— Exposed	★★☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — some relief from self-shading late in the game
Mezzanine 332	upper	— Exposed	★★☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — some relief from self-shading late in the game
Mezzanine 333	upper	— Exposed	★★☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — some relief from self-shading late in the game
Mezzanine 334	upper	— Exposed	★★☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — some relief from self-shading late in the game
Mezzanine 335	upper	— Exposed	★★☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — some relief from self-shading late in the game
Mezzanine 336	upper	— Exposed	★★☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — some relief from self-shading late in the game
Mezzanine 337	upper	— Exposed	★★☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — some relief from self-shading late in the game
Mezzanine 338	upper	— Exposed	★★☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — some relief from self-shading late in the game
Mezzanine 339	upper	— Exposed	★★☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — some relief from self-shading late in the game
Mezzanine 340	upper	— Exposed	★★☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — some relief from self-shading late in the game
Mezzanine 341	upper	— Exposed	★★☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — some relief from self-shading late in the game
Mezzanine 342	upper	— Exposed	★★☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — some relief from self-shading late in the game
Mezzanine 343	upper	— Exposed	★★☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — some relief from self-shading late in the game
Mezzanine 344	upper	— Exposed	★★☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — some relief from self-shading late in the game
Mezzanine 345	upper	— Exposed	★★☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — some relief from self-shading late in the game
Mezzanine 346	upper	— Exposed	★★☆☆☆	Evening games	Exposed — some relief from self-shading late in the game

Field Level34 sections

Diamond Club 12★☆☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — little to no shade
Diamond Club 13★☆☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — little to no shade
Diamond Club 14★☆☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — little to no shade
Diamond Club 15★☆☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — little to no shade
Infield Box 16★☆☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — little to no shade
Infield Box 17★☆☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — little to no shade
Infield Box 18★☆☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — little to no shade
Infield Box 19★☆☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — little to no shade
Infield Box 20★☆☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — little to no shade
Infield Box 21★☆☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — little to no shade
Infield Box 22★☆☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — little to no shade
Infield Box 23★☆☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — little to no shade
Infield Box 24★☆☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — little to no shade
Infield Box 25★☆☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — little to no shade
Infield Box 26★☆☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — little to no shade
Infield Box 27★☆☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — little to no shade
Infield Box 28★☆☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — little to no shade
Infield Box 29★☆☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — little to no shade
Infield Box 30★☆☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — little to no shade
Outfield Box 31★☆☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — little to no shade
Outfield Box 32★☆☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — little to no shade
Outfield Box 33★☆☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — little to no shade
Outfield Box 34★☆☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — little to no shade
Outfield Box 35★☆☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — little to no shade
Outfield Box 36★☆☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — little to no shade
Outfield Box 37★☆☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — little to no shade
Outfield Box 38★☆☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — little to no shade
Outfield Box 39★☆☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — little to no shade
Outfield Box 40★☆☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — little to no shade
Outfield Box 41★☆☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — little to no shade
Outfield Box 42★☆☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — little to no shade
Outfield Box 43★☆☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — little to no shade
Outfield Box 44★☆☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — little to no shade
Outfield Box 45★☆☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — little to no shade

Lower Level46 sections

Gallery 101★☆☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — little to no shade
Gallery 102★☆☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — little to no shade
Gallery 103★☆☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — little to no shade
Gallery 104★☆☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — little to no shade
Gallery 105★☆☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — little to no shade
Gallery 106★☆☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — little to no shade
Gallery 107★☆☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — little to no shade
Gallery 108★☆☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — little to no shade
Gallery 109★☆☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — little to no shade
Gallery 110★☆☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — little to no shade
Gallery 111★☆☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — little to no shade
Gallery 112★☆☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — little to no shade
Gallery 113★☆☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — little to no shade
Gallery 114★☆☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — little to no shade
Gallery 115★☆☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — little to no shade
Gallery 116★☆☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — little to no shade
Gallery 117★☆☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — little to no shade
Gallery 118★☆☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — little to no shade
Gallery 119★☆☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — little to no shade
Gallery 120★☆☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — little to no shade
Gallery 121★☆☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — little to no shade
Gallery 122★☆☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — little to no shade
Gallery 123★☆☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — little to no shade
Gallery 124★☆☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — little to no shade
Gallery 125★☆☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — little to no shade
Gallery 126★☆☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — little to no shade
Gallery 127★☆☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — little to no shade
Gallery 128★☆☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — little to no shade
Gallery 129★☆☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — little to no shade
Gallery 130★☆☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — little to no shade
Gallery 131★☆☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — little to no shade
Gallery 132★☆☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — little to no shade
Gallery 133★☆☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — little to no shade
Gallery 134★☆☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — little to no shade
Gallery 135★☆☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — little to no shade
Gallery 136★☆☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — little to no shade
Gallery 137★☆☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — little to no shade
Gallery 138★☆☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — little to no shade
Gallery 139★☆☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — little to no shade
Gallery 140★☆☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — little to no shade
Gallery 141★☆☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — little to no shade
Gallery 142★☆☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — little to no shade
Gallery 143★☆☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — little to no shade
Gallery 144★☆☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — little to no shade
Gallery 145★☆☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — little to no shade
Gallery 146★☆☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — little to no shade

Club Level44 sections

Presidents Club 201★★★★★
✓ Covered · All day
Guaranteed shade — fully covered
Presidents Club 202★★★★★
✓ Covered · All day
Guaranteed shade — fully covered
Presidents Club 203★★★★★
✓ Covered · All day
Guaranteed shade — fully covered
Presidents Club 204★★★★★
✓ Covered · All day
Guaranteed shade — fully covered
Presidents Club 205★★★★★
✓ Covered · All day
Guaranteed shade — fully covered
Presidents Club 206★☆☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — little to no shade
Presidents Club 207★☆☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — little to no shade
Presidents Club 208★☆☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — little to no shade
Presidents Club 209★☆☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — little to no shade
Presidents Club 210★☆☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — little to no shade
Presidents Club 211★☆☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — little to no shade
Presidents Club 212★☆☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — little to no shade
Presidents Club 213★☆☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — little to no shade
Presidents Club 214★☆☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — little to no shade
Presidents Club 215★☆☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — little to no shade
Presidents Club 216★☆☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — little to no shade
Presidents Club 217★☆☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — little to no shade
Presidents Club 218★☆☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — little to no shade
Presidents Club 219★☆☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — little to no shade
Presidents Club 220★☆☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — little to no shade
Presidents Club 221★☆☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — little to no shade
Presidents Club 222★☆☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — little to no shade
Presidents Club 223★☆☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — little to no shade
Presidents Club 224★☆☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — little to no shade
Presidents Club 225★☆☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — little to no shade
Presidents Club 226★☆☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — little to no shade
Presidents Club 227★☆☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — little to no shade
Presidents Club 228★☆☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — little to no shade
Presidents Club 229★☆☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — little to no shade
Presidents Club 230★☆☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — little to no shade
Presidents Club 231★☆☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — little to no shade
Presidents Club 232★☆☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — little to no shade
Presidents Club 233★☆☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — little to no shade
Presidents Club 234★☆☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — little to no shade
Presidents Club 235★☆☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — little to no shade
Presidents Club 236★☆☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — little to no shade
Presidents Club 237★☆☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — little to no shade
Presidents Club 238★☆☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — little to no shade
Presidents Club 239★☆☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — little to no shade
Presidents Club 240★☆☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — little to no shade
Presidents Club 241★☆☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — little to no shade
Presidents Club 242★☆☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — little to no shade
Presidents Club 243★☆☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — little to no shade
Presidents Club 244★☆☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — little to no shade

Upper Level46 sections

Mezzanine 301★★★☆☆
◐ back rows · Day games (back rows)
Overhang shade in the back rows only; front rows exposed
Mezzanine 302★★★☆☆
◐ back rows · Day games (back rows)
Overhang shade in the back rows only; front rows exposed
Mezzanine 303★★★☆☆
◐ back rows · Day games (back rows)
Overhang shade in the back rows only; front rows exposed
Mezzanine 304★★★☆☆
◐ back rows · Day games (back rows)
Overhang shade in the back rows only; front rows exposed
Mezzanine 305★★★☆☆
◐ back rows · Day games (back rows)
Overhang shade in the back rows only; front rows exposed
Mezzanine 306★★☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — some relief from self-shading late in the game
Mezzanine 307★★☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — some relief from self-shading late in the game
Mezzanine 308★★☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — some relief from self-shading late in the game
Mezzanine 309★★☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — some relief from self-shading late in the game
Mezzanine 310★★☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — some relief from self-shading late in the game
Mezzanine 311★★☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — some relief from self-shading late in the game
Mezzanine 312★★☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — some relief from self-shading late in the game
Mezzanine 313★★☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — some relief from self-shading late in the game
Mezzanine 314★★☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — some relief from self-shading late in the game
Mezzanine 315★★☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — some relief from self-shading late in the game
Mezzanine 316★★☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — some relief from self-shading late in the game
Mezzanine 317★★☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — some relief from self-shading late in the game
Mezzanine 318★★☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — some relief from self-shading late in the game
Mezzanine 319★★☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — some relief from self-shading late in the game
Mezzanine 320★★☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — some relief from self-shading late in the game
Mezzanine 321★★☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — some relief from self-shading late in the game
Mezzanine 322★★☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — some relief from self-shading late in the game
Mezzanine 323★★☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — some relief from self-shading late in the game
Mezzanine 324★★☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — some relief from self-shading late in the game
Mezzanine 325★★☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — some relief from self-shading late in the game
Mezzanine 326★★☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — some relief from self-shading late in the game
Mezzanine 327★★☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — some relief from self-shading late in the game
Mezzanine 328★★☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — some relief from self-shading late in the game
Mezzanine 329★★☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — some relief from self-shading late in the game
Mezzanine 330★★☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — some relief from self-shading late in the game
Mezzanine 331★★☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — some relief from self-shading late in the game
Mezzanine 332★★☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — some relief from self-shading late in the game
Mezzanine 333★★☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — some relief from self-shading late in the game
Mezzanine 334★★☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — some relief from self-shading late in the game
Mezzanine 335★★☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — some relief from self-shading late in the game
Mezzanine 336★★☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — some relief from self-shading late in the game
Mezzanine 337★★☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — some relief from self-shading late in the game
Mezzanine 338★★☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — some relief from self-shading late in the game
Mezzanine 339★★☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — some relief from self-shading late in the game
Mezzanine 340★★☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — some relief from self-shading late in the game
Mezzanine 341★★☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — some relief from self-shading late in the game
Mezzanine 342★★☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — some relief from self-shading late in the game
Mezzanine 343★★☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — some relief from self-shading late in the game
Mezzanine 344★★☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — some relief from self-shading late in the game
Mezzanine 345★★☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — some relief from self-shading late in the game
Mezzanine 346★★☆☆☆
— Exposed · Evening games
Exposed — some relief from self-shading late in the game

Sun Protection Tips for Nationals Park

☀️ Peak Sun Hours

The sun is strongest between 11 AM and 4 PM. Day games at Nationals Park will have maximum sun exposure during these hours.

🧴 Sunscreen Stations

Bring your own sunscreen - SPF 30+ recommended

🧢 Recommended Gear

Wide-brimmed hat or cap with neck protection
Sunglasses with UV protection
Light-colored, loose-fitting clothing
Portable shade umbrella (check stadium policy)

💧 Stay Hydrated

Drink water regularly, especially during day games. Nationals Park has water fountains on each level.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best shaded seats at Nationals Park for a 1 PM game?

For a 1 PM game, the behind home plate falls into shade first, so seats there and up in the back rows of the upper deck stay coolest. Fully covered sections like Presidents Club 201, Presidents Club 202, Presidents Club 203 offer guaranteed shade all day.

Which sections have covered seating?

5 sections at Nationals Park are fully covered (all rows) — mostly indoor, suite, and club-level spaces, and 5 more are shaded in their back rows only, under the upper-deck overhang and roof. Field-level and open bleacher sections are exposed.

See the full covered-section list

Fully covered (all rows): Presidents Club 201, Presidents Club 202, Presidents Club 203, Presidents Club 204, Presidents Club 205.

Back rows only (overhang/roof): Mezzanine 301, Mezzanine 302, Mezzanine 303, Mezzanine 304, Mezzanine 305.

How early does shade reach the lower bowl?

For day games, shade typically reaches the field level sections by the 5th-6th inning. Evening games (7 PM starts) usually have most of the stadium in shade by first pitch, except for outfield sections which may experience sunset glare.

Are there shaded standing room areas?

Yes, the upper deck concourse and club level concourses offer shaded standing room areas with views of the field. These are great options for escaping the sun during day games.

Plan Your Visit to Nationals Park

Remember, shade patterns change throughout the season and even during the game. For the most accurate, real-time shade information for your specific game, use our interactive shade tracker.

Check Real-Time Shade View All Stadiums

Pick your game

Loading the Washington Nationals schedule…

Select a game above to see section-by-section shade recommendations for your specific first-pitch time.

Shade data last verified: May 21, 2026

Seating layout is approximate — the shaded vs sunny side is accurate, but individual section details are modeled, not from this park’s real seating map.

Overview

Nationals Park sits along the Anacostia River in Navy Yard, featuring stunning views of the US Capitol and Washington Monument. This modern ballpark is known for its wide concourses, unique outfield configuration, and the Presidents Race tradition.

Stadium Highlights

Views of US Capitol and monuments
Anacostia Riverfront location
Presidents Race entertainment
Center Field Social area

Unique Features

Racing Presidents mascots
Center Field Social gathering space
Budweiser Terrace rooftop bar
Kids Play Area beyond center field

Shade & Sun Protection Guide

Best Shaded Sections by Time

Morning Games

Gallery 401-410
Infield Gallery 301-310
Diamond Club

Afternoon Games

Gallery 410-420
Mezzanine third base side
PNC Diamond Club

Evening Games

First base side after 5 PM
Sections 110-130
Most upper deck

Shade Tips

Third base side gets shade first
Gallery level provides overhead coverage
Avoid outfield sections for day games
Club areas have climate control

Monthly Weather Patterns

April

65°F 60% 25% rain

Cherry blossoms, mild

Light jacket recommended

May

74°F 65% 25% rain

Pleasant spring

Third base for afternoon

June

83°F 70% 25% rain

Getting humid

Upper deck recommended

July

88°F 75% 30% rain

Hot and humid

Shade essential, hydrate

August

86°F 75% 30% rain

Peak summer heat

Evening games best

September

79°F 70% 25% rain

Still warm

Most sections comfortable

Seating Guide

Premium Seating Options

Club Levels

PNC Diamond Club

Behind home plate

All-inclusive food/drinks
Padded seats
Private entrance

Norfolk Southern Club

First base side

Climate controlled
Upscale dining
Private bar

Seating Tips

PNC Diamond 115-125

Best overall experience with shade

experience

Gallery 401-410

Great value with monument views

value

Sections 135-140

Close to action but sunny

view

Center Field Social

Fun social atmosphere

experience

Budget-Friendly Options

Gallery Reserved 401-420
Outfield Reserved
Scoreboard Pavilion

Food & Drink

Signature Items

Ben's Chili Bowl half-smoke
Chesapeake crab cake
DC Brau beer
Nationals Dog

Local Favorites

Ben's Chili Bowl
District Drafts
Shake Shack
Box Frites

Beer & Beverages

DC Brau
Atlas Brew Works
Budweiser
Miller Lite

Local breweries: DC Brau, Atlas, 3 Stars, Right Proper

Getting There

Address

1500 South Capitol Street SE, Washington, DC 20003

Parking Options

Garage A

Distance: AdjacentPrice: $40✓ Covered✓ Shaded spots

Closest but priciest

Garage B

Distance: 5 min walkPrice: $30✓ Covered✓ Shaded spots

Good balance

Lot W

Distance: 10 min walkPrice: $20

Budget option

Alternative Transportation

Public Transit

Navy Yard Metro (Green Line)
DC Circulator bus

Ride Share: N Street SE designated zones

Game Day Tips

Early Arrival

Gates open 90 minutes before first pitch

Sun Protection

Bring sunscreen for day games

Local Food

Try the stadium signature items

Beat Traffic

Leave early or stay late to avoid congestion

Typical Game Day Schedule

Gates Open: 90 minutes before first pitch
First Pitch: 7:10 PM weekdays, various weekend times

Neighborhood: Navy Yard

Revitalized waterfront district with restaurants, bars, and parks

Before the Game

Bluejacket Brewery
Agua 301
The Salt Line
Walters Sports Bar

After the Game

The Bullpen outdoor bar area
Yards Park
Capitol Riverfront bars

Insider Tips

Pro Tips

Scoreboard Walk has unique perspective
Center Field Social best for groups
Presidents Race is can't-miss entertainment
Free tours available on non-game days

Best Value

Gallery level corners great views for less
$5 concessions at Value stands
Happy hour before first pitch at bars

Hidden Gems

Ring of Honor on Gallery level
Budweiser Terrace sunset views
Local food vendors rotate regularly

Things to Avoid

Driving without pre-paid parking
Outfield sections on hot days
Leaving immediately after game (Metro crush)

Stadium History

Timeline

2008Nationals Park opens

2012Hosts first playoff game

2018Hosts MLB All-Star Game

2019World Series championship season

Stadium Traditions

Racing Presidents

Mascot race during 4th inning

Take On Me

8th inning sing-along

Screech

Bald eagle mascot

Retired Numbers

#42Jackie Robinson(1997)