The Gwinnett Stripers have a fierce rivalry with South Division rivals Norfolk. The rivalry stems from the fact that both teams used to be located in the state of Virginia up until the Stripers move from Richmond to Gwinnett in 2009. The rivalry was especially heated from 1994 to 2006 when the Tides were affiliated with the Stripers hated rivals the Mets. While the rivalry may not be quite what it used to be, you’ll still have an incredible time taking in a Braves-Tides game.
You won’t want to miss it when the Durham Bulls come to Gwinnett to take on the Stripers. There is always a lot on the line when these two South Division rivals square off, so make sure to get your tickets to a Stripers-Bulls game at Coolray Field.
Gwinnett Stripers Tailgate Guide
Atmosphere
Coolray Field offers you plenty of room to tailgating making it an excellent destination for any tailgate lover. If you love grilling out before the game with friends and family, then there are few better places in the International League to take in a game than Coolray Field. On game days you’ll find a sea of tailgaters creating one of the most festive tailgates in the league.
Tailgating is a big part of southern culture and so is barbecue, so Stripers prepared to enjoy some delicious barbecue when attending a G-Stripers game. Arrive hungry as you won’t be able to resist downing ribs, pulled pork, and more at a G-Stripers tailgate.
Finally, take some time to see all the tributes to Stripers greats around the park’s exterior. The main entrance features banners celebrating all-time greats such as Hank Aaron, Bobby Cox, and Chippers Jones, and is also home to a Stripers flower garden. You also should make sure to stop by the Bert Nasuti tribute as without him there are no Gwinnett Stripers as you know them.
There is a lot of tailgating to be had in the parking lots outside Coolray Field, so arrive early and enjoy all the sights and sounds of a G-Stripers tailgate.
The main entrance of Coolray Field is home to banners honoring some of the Stripers’ all-time greats including Hank Aaron, Bobby Cox, and Chipper Jones as well as a nice flower garden. Stop by and check it all out on your way into Coolray Field.
Take a minute to see the Bert Nasuti tribute before entering the park. Nasuti played a huge role in bringing the Stripers to Gwinnett County, so make sure to pay tribute to him before the game.
Where to tailgate
Parking Lots A Through HTailgating is allowed in every parking lot outside Coolray Field making the parking lots the perfect place to set up your tailgate. Just keep in mind that Lot A is permit parking, so if you want to park close to the stadium make sure you have a pass. No matter where in the lots you’re tailgating, you’ll have a fantastic time grilling out, throwing back a few beers, and making new friends.
Gwinnett Stripers Stadium Guide
In Game
A Gwinnett Stripers game is an excellent night out for the family, so if you’re looking for some family entertainment in suburban Atlanta, then you can’t beat a G-Stripers game. The Gwinnett Stripers go all out to create a fun family atmosphere at games offering several promotions for kids and families. One of the best kids promotions is the Sunday Kids Days, which allow kids to play catch on the field before the game and run the bases afterwards. Another great time for families to come out to the ballpark is on Mondays for Kids Eat Free Mondays. Families can even get a bargain on tickets by purchasing lawn seats for as little as $3 on select nights.
Those of you who are looking for a bit more mature ballpark experience will want to check out Niekro’s. Not only does Niekro’s offers some unique bites like The Knucksie or the Krispy Kreme Cheddar Burger it’s also home to a variety of craft beer options making it the perfect spot for beer enthusiasts.
Finally, no matter what your age, you’ll enjoy the in-game entertainment at G-Stripers games. G-Stripers games give you the opportunity to see some of the Stripers future stars, as well as skits and other promotions, lead by the G-Stripers mascot Chopper. Come on out to a G-Stripers game for a night full of entertainment.
If you’re looking for a bargain, then you can’t beat the lawn seats at a G-Braves game. The lawn seats can be purchased for as low as $3 on select nights making it the perfect place to take in a game for those of you on a budget.
Located down the third baseline, Niekro’s is a great place to grab a bite to eat or something to drink at a G-Braves games. Niekro’s is home to a sit-down restaurant experience and features a variety of ballpark delicacies including the Krispy Kreme Cheddar Burger and The Knucksie. Best of all Niekro’s is a great place to beat the heat is the restaurant air-conditioned it also offers a fantastic selection of refreshing craft beers.
Make sure to check out the retired numbers on the right field wall when taking in a game at Coolray Stadium. The retired numbers celebrate Jackie Robinson and Tommy Aaron, so don’t miss them during your trip to Gwinnett County.
Those of you looking to pick up a souvenir from your trip to the stadium will want to stop by the team store. The store is home to a wide selection of G-Braves gear, so no matter what kind of merchandise you’re looking for you’ll find it here.
Stop by the play area with your kids before the game to tire them out. If your kids get restless during the game, there is no better place for them to work off their excess energy than the play area in left field.
Keep an eye out for the G-Braves mascot Chopper throughout the game. Not only will you not want to miss Chopper’s antics on the field, but you’ll also want to give him a high five when you see him on the concourse.
If you’ve got kids, then there is no better time to attend a G-Braves game than on Kids Eat Free at the Ballpark Mondays. Kids will get a free hot dog, chips, and a soda making it the perfect time to take the family out to the ballgame.
The Sunday Kids Days are a fun time for families to come out and take in a game at Coolray Field. On Sundays, kids can play catch on the field before the game and run the bases after creating an experience they’ll never forget.