The Norfolk Tides have a fierce rivalry with South Division rivals Gwinnett. The rivalry stems from the fact that both teams used to be located in the state of Virginia up until the Braves move from Richmond to Gwinnett in 2009. The rivalry was especially heated from 1994 to 2006 when the Tides were affiliated with the Braves 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 Tides-Braves game.
Norfolk Tides Tailgate Guide
Atmosphere
If you enjoy parking lot picnics, then you’ll have lots of fun tailgating at Harbor Park. Harbor Park is home to several grass areas that are perfect for setting up a picnic for your friends and family. One of the drawbacks though about tailgating at a Tides game is that you can’t have open alcohol or grill out making the tailgating scene surrounding Tides games rather subdued.
However, those of you who enjoy going to the bars before the game will be in luck as there are plenty of nearby bars and restaurants to check out. Harbor Park is located in downtown Norfolk, and as a result, you’ll find tons of bars and restaurants within walking distance of the park. Whether you’re looking for an Irish pub like Grace O’Malley’s or an upscale bistro, you’ll find something you’ll enjoy.
Additionally, take some time before the game to see Sandy Mermaid. Sandy Mermaid has been stationed outside Harbor Park since 2015 and presents an excellent photo opportunity making it a must-see for anyone visiting Norfolk.
You’ll find lots of places to grab a bite to eat or something to drink before a Tides game, so arrive to downtown Norfolk early to get the most out of your trip.
One of the more creative parts of Harbor Park is how the sign outside the stadium lets fans know if the team is in town or not. The sign says “Tide is in” if the Tides have a home game and “Tide is out” if they don’t. Make sure to check the sign and see if the Tides have a game or not during your trip to Norfolk.
Snap a picture with Sandy Mermaid before entering Harbor Park. The statue made its debut in 2015 and is a must-see for any taking in a Tides game, so stop by and see when attending a game at Harbor Park.
Where to tailgate
Grassy Areas Near Lot CThose of you who want to have a picnic before the game can get together and share prepared food in the grassy areas around the parking lot before the game. Unfortunately, alcohol and cooking aren’t allowed in the lots around Harbor Park.
Downtown Norfolk BarsIf you want to grab drinks before the game, then there are several bars in downtown Norfolk worth checking out. No matter what kind of bar you like you’ll find something to your liking here. Check our bars and restaurants list for a full list of bars near Harbor Park.
Norfolk Tides Stadium Guide
In Game
In the past, Harbor Park was named the best ballpark in Minor League Baseball, and today it’s still one of the finest ballparks you’ll find anywhere. One of the best parts of taking in a game at Harbor Park is the fantastic view of the harbor. You’ll be able to not only watch a baseball game here in Norfolk but also see the activity at the harbor creating a memorable experience you won’t find anywhere else.
In addition to an incredible view, Harbor Park is also home to a lot of amenities and extras meaning even if you’re not a huge baseball fan, you’ll still have fun taking in a game here. The Hampton Roads Sports Hall of Fame is a must-see for any sports fan in the Norfolk area and is located in the Harbor Park lobby. You also won’t want to miss the opportunity to take the Salute to Pork Challenge at Hits at the Park, which pits you against five pounds of pork.
Finally, diehard baseball fans will find plenty to keep them entertained as they’ll get to see some of the Baltimore Orioles future stars on the field and will even have the opportunity to get some autographs if they arrive early enough.
Harbor Park provides you with one of the best experiences in all of Minor League Baseball, so head on down to Norfolk this some for some excellent Triple-A baseball action.
As its name implies, Harbor Park offers an incredible view of the harbor providing a unique experience you won’t find anywhere else in Triple-A baseball. Enjoy the view of the harbor and all its activity when taking in a game at Harbor Park.
No trip to Harbor Park is complete without stopping by the Hampton Roads sports Hall of Fame in the ballpark’s lobby. The Hampton Roads Sports Hall of Fame honors players, coaches, administrators, and media members who are from Hampton Roads or made an impact in the area including Bruce Smith, Billy Martin, and Allen Iverson.
Located at the end of the first baseline concourse, Hits at the Park is a full-service restaurant and an excellent place to grab a meal at Harbor Park. Here you’ll be able to enjoy an all-you-can-eat buffet while taking in the action on the diamond, so if you arrive at the game hungry Hits at the Park is just the spot for you.
If the idea of an all-you-can-eat buffet at Hits at the Park isn’t enough for you, then the Salute to Pork Challenge will be right up your alley. The Salute to Pork Challenge requires you to eat five pounds of pork within an hour, and if you’re successful, you’ll walk away with a free meal, four tickets to a future Tides game, and your picture on the Wall of Fame. However, if you’re unsuccessful, you’ll find your face on the Wall of Shame and have to pay for the meal making the Salute to Pork Challenge not for the faint of heart.
At Harbor Park, you can get autographs from your favorite players from the time the gate opens until 15 minutes before the game starts. Arrive early and get your favorite Tides player’s signature before the game.
Those of you looking to experience watching a Tides game in a unique way will want to reserve a spot in the picnic area for your group of 50 to 250. The picnic area offers a one of a kind way to watch the game that you won’t find anywhere else at Harbor Park, so reserve your spot today.
Pick up a souvenir from your trip to Norfolk at the Tides team store. At the team store, you’ll find all kinds of Tides merchandise including caps, jerseys, t-shirts, foam fingers, and more.
You won’t want to miss seeing the Tides mascots Rip Tide and Triton perform throughout the game. These two lovable mascots get into all kinds of antics making them a must-see part of any Tides game.
Featuring Draft, Bottled, Domestic, Imported and Craft Beer (of which over 40 of them are on tap!), Northern California Style Hand Tossed Pizza, Food, Spirits & Joy!
Your dining experience here is like no other. We recommend our Angus Steaks, aged 28 days and prepared in our classic style to your taste. Or choose from our menu of freshly prepared dishes.
Baxter's is the largest & most exciting award-winning bar and lounge in Downtown Norfolk. Watch your favorite game on one of over 25 HD flat screens around the restaurant including eight 60" HD flat screens above the bar.
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