The intracity rivalry between the Mets and Yankees always makes for a fun game to watch. There are always a lot of bragging rights on the line when the Mets and Yankees meet, and you’ll hear plenty of trash talking making a Mets-Yankees game at Citi Field a can’t miss experience.
Said to be one of the more heated rivalries in the National League, you’ll be in for a treat when attending a Mets-Phillies game. Between the many brawls of the 1980s, to the unbalanced scheduling in the early 2000s that made divisional rivalries meet each other more frequently, to the controversial statements made by both teams regarding their rivals’ status in the NL, this rivalry is always interesting to watch.
The rivalry between the Mets and Braves has been going strong since the Braves moved to the NL East in the early 1990s. The two have met in the playoffs several times over the years including the 1969 and 1999 NLCSs. If you want to attend a good matchup, then there are few better than a Mets-Braves game.
Right now the Nationals are the Mets biggest competition for the NL East title, which means there’s a lot at stake whenever the Mets and Nationals square off.
Mets Tailgate Guide
Atmosphere
Arrive early to spring training to see the Mets and their minor leaguers practice before the season. The practice fields open around 9:30, meaning you’ll want to get here early to make the most out of your trip to St. Lucie. You can catch the Mets practicing on field #2, while the minor leaguers will be on fields #4 through #7.
One thing to keep in mind though if you want to catch practice is that when the Mets are playing at home, the practice fields close up early. The best time to watch practice is to either visit early in the spring training before games start or make the trip to see practice on Mets off days. You can also typically catch some of the minor league practices when the Mets are playing away from St. Lucie.
Additionally, before entering First Data Field take a moment to see the 9/11 Memorial outside the ballpark. The memorial is a touching tribute to those who lost their lives on 9/11, so stop by and see it before the game.
Mets practices are an excellent way to see your favorite Mets players and prospects up-close, so make sure to get here early to take advantage of this opportunity.
The Mets practice fields open at 9:30 am and are located behind left field. The majority of the Mets practices take place on field #2, while the minor leagues practice on field #4 through #7. The one drawback to attending Mets practices is that the fields close very early on days that the Mets play a game.
Take a moment before the game to stop by and pay remembrance to those who lost their lives on 9/11 by visiting the 9/11 Memorial outside the ballpark. The memorial contains a piece of steel from the Twin Towers and includes tributes to three Mets team employees who lost their lives in the tragedy.
Where to tailgate
ParkingThe Mets offer parking for $10 outside the front of the stadium.
Mets Stadium Guide
In Game
Mets fans won’t want to miss seeing their team gear up for the season in St. Lucie, Florida. Fans young and old will have a great time watching current, and future Mets stars take the field during the spring, creating an unforgettable experience that you won’t soon forget.
One of the can’t-miss parts of attending spring training is getting an autograph from your favorite Met before the game. At First Data Field, you’ll want to make your way to Section 122 or 110 to try and get the attention of your favorite player. Even if you fail to get an autograph, you’ll still have the experience of getting up close to several big leaguers.
You’ll also want to take some time to see the Mets history mural on the press box facade and pick up a souvenir from the Mets Fan Shop. Both are fun to peruse, so don’t miss doing either during your trip to spring training.
Finally, you’ll find a party like atmosphere that is typified by the Tiki Bar and Party Decks. You won’t find a better place in the ballpark to grab a drink than the Tiki Bar, and if you’re looking to throw a large party, then the Party Decks are just the thing for you.
A Mets spring training game is a lot of fun and features something for everyone, so you won’t want to miss out on your opportunity to be a part of the action this coming season.
The best spot to get autographs at a Mets spring training game is Section 122 behind the Mets bullpen. You may also have luck getting a few signatures in Section 110 near the dugout. If you want to pick up a few autographs from the opposing team, then your best bet is to hang out in Sections 117 and 119.
Check out the mural on the press box facade, which features the best players and moments in Mets history. The mural is a must-see for any die-hard Mets fan, so don’t miss it.
Grab a drink at the Tiki Bar. The Tiki Bar sells a variety of beers and liquor drinks, making it the perfect place to sit back and have a few cold ones when attending a Mets spring training game.
Pick up a souvenir at the Mets Fan Shop behind home plate. Here you’ll find a wide selection of Mets and St. Lucie Mets merchandise including jerseys, caps, bobbleheads, and more.
Hold a group event for up to 50 of your closest friends at the Mets spring training. The party decks are excellent for any group event and feature unlimited food and soft drinks.
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