Great American Ball Park
Overview
Great American Ball Park sits along the Ohio River in downtown Cincinnati, featuring a gap in the outfield that provides river views. Known as a hitter-friendly park, it combines modern amenities with tributes to Cincinnati's rich baseball history.
Stadium Highlights
- Ohio River views through outfield gap
- Reds Hall of Fame & Museum
- Steamboat in center field
- Rose Garden tribute area
Unique Features
- Riverboat beyond center field
- Gap in outfield stands for river views
- Power Stacks smokestacks
- Crosley Terrace historic elements
Shade & Sun Protection Guide
Best Shaded Sections by Time
Morning Games
- Upper Deck 401-415 third base
- Club seats
- Diamond seats
Afternoon Games
- Upper Deck 415-430
- Sections 125-135 third base
- Club level
Evening Games
- First base side after 5:30 PM
- Sections 110-120
- Most upper deck
Shade Tips
- Third base side gets afternoon shade
- Upper deck provides good coverage
- Avoid bleachers for day games
- River breeze provides cooling
Monthly Weather Patterns
April
Cool and variable
Dress in layers
May
Pleasant spring
Third base for afternoon
June
Getting warm
Upper deck recommended
July
Hot and humid
Shade essential
August
Peak summer
Evening games best
September
Cooling down
Most sections comfortable
Seating Guide
Premium Seating Options
Club Levels
Diamond Seats
Behind home plate
- All-inclusive food/drinks
- Waitstaff
- Padded seats
Champions Club
Club level
- Upscale dining
- Private bar
- Climate control
Seating Tips
Diamond Seats A-F
Ultimate luxury experience
experienceView Level 515-525
Best value with river views
valueSections 125-130
Great shade and views
shadeSun/Moon Deck
Party atmosphere but hot
experienceBudget-Friendly Options
- View Level 500s
- Sun/Moon Deck
- Upper corners
Food & Drink
Signature Items
- LaRosa's Pizza
- Skyline Chili
- Montgomery Inn BBQ
- Queen City Sausage
Local Favorites
- LaRosa's
- Skyline
- Montgomery Inn
- Graeter's Ice Cream
Beer & Beverages
- Christian Moerlein
- MadTree
- Rhinegeist
- Taft's
Local breweries: MadTree, Rhinegeist, Taft's, Braxton
Getting There
Address
100 Joe Nuxhall Way, Cincinnati, OH 45202
Parking Options
Central Riverfront Garage
Closest covered option
East Garage
Good value
Fountain Square garages
Downtown options
Alternative Transportation
Public Transit
- Cincinnati Bell Connector streetcar
- Metro buses
Ride Share: Joe Nuxhall Way 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: The Banks
Riverfront entertainment district between stadiums
Before the Game
- Holy Grail Tavern
- Yard House
- Tin Roof
- Moerlein Lager House
After the Game
- The Banks bars
- Over-the-Rhine district
- Fountain Square
Insider Tips
Pro Tips
- Rose Garden worth visiting
- Hall of Fame free with ticket
- Fireworks Fridays popular
- Riverboat horns after home runs
Best Value
- View Level corners great value
- Sun/Moon Deck cheapest option
- Student discounts available
Hidden Gems
- Crosley Terrace historic elements
- Power Stacks shoot fireworks
- Machine Room Grille upscale dining
Things to Avoid
- Sun/Moon Deck on hot days
- Driving without prepaid parking
- Missing the Hall of Fame
Stadium History
Timeline
Stadium Traditions
Mr. Red
Baseball-headed mascot
Gapper
Furry mascot
Fireworks
After Friday home games