SHADE GUIDE

Nationals Park

Washington NationalsMLB
Navy Yard,
41,339 seats
0° orientation
Open Air
Built 2008
Nationals Park stadium information: Home of the Washington Nationals in MLB. Located in Navy Yard, with a capacity of 41,339 seats. The stadium has open air and faces 0 degrees. Built in 2008.

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)