Pirates Overview

Fast facts

League: MLB

Head Coach: Derek Shelton

Team Mascot: Pirate Parrot

Year Opened: 2001

Capacity: 38747

City / State: Pittsburgh / Pennsylvania

Rivalries & Top Games to Attend

Pirates vs Phillies

Rival Team: Philadelphia Phillies

The Phillies and Pirates used to have a strong cross-state rivalry. However, things have cooled a bit between these two Keystone State rivals since the Pirates moved to the NL Central. While the rivalry may not be as heated as in the past, you’ll still be in for a good time when taking in a Phillies-Pirates game.

Pirates vs Cubs

Rival Team: Chicago Cubs

The rivalry between the Pirates and Cubs has heated up quite a bit in recent years. The two teams met in the 2015 Wild Card Game, and things have been tense between the two teams since Chris Coghlan injured Jung-Ho Kang. The Cubs are arguably the Pirates biggest rivals right now, so don’t miss it when the Cubs and Pirates square off at PNC Park.

Pirates vs Cardinals

Rival Team: St. Louis Cardinals

The Pirates and Cardinals have been battling it out for pennants for a long time, and the Buccos recent resurgence has brought new life to this rivalry. You’ll be in for a good matchup when the Cards are in town, so make sure to get tickets to a Pirates-Cardinals game.

Pirates Tailgate Guide

Atmosphere

Tailgating at Pirates games takes place in the lots between Heinz Field and PNC Park. Most fans bring the usual essentials, the grills, bag sets, plenty of beers, and a stereo.  It’s a pretty basic affair mostly just people taking the opportunity to soak up the midsummer sun in the middle of the city with about as many hot dogs as you can fit on a grill.  

Many fans take the opportunity to walk down by the river in the back of the stadium where there are areas to grab concessions, get a little exercise, and do some sightseeing in before you hit the game.

Another recommendation is to take a look at our bars and restaurant list and hit some of the local spots for Pittsburgh favorites like a Primanti Brothers monster sandwich.  The bar list will show you great places to run into fans on the way to the game, step in the AC if you want and grab some cold draft beers and some hot food before watching the Pirates take the field.  

Traditions

Statues Outside Entrance

There are five entrances into PNC Park, and four of them feature massive statues in front of them, honoring Pirates legends such as Roberto Clemente and Willie “Pops” Stargell. Walk around the stadium and see all of them before entering the park.

Federal Street

Federal Street presents a pre-game block party full of food, drinks, and family entertainment near PNC Park. If you’re looking for something to do before a Pirates game, then stop by Federal Street for a good time.

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Roberto Clemente Museum

The Roberto Clemente Museum is a must-see for any baseball fan. Clemente’s legacy is one that has and will continue to go down in history as both a great humanitarian and one of the greatest right fielders to play the game.

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Where to tailgate

Pirates Stadium Guide

In Game

The first thing you’ll notice about PNC Park is the view; looking towards the outfield you get a great backdrop of the city and the bridges across the Alleghany River.  It’s a truly magnificent view, and it feels like the city is right on top of you as the tall buildings fill the sky.  

The size of PNC Park also makes it an excellent place to take in a ball game. PNC Park is one of the smaller parks in Major League Baseball with a capacity 38,000, which helps create an intimate experience that puts you right on top of the field. Even the upper decks allow you to see all of the action clearly as well as out to the river where quite a few homers land each year.

Additionally, PNC Park offers fantastic service from its employees, the ushers will help you with just about anything possible, many seats in the first deck have a feature that allows you to be waited on by an usher and have them get your concessions for you and if you choose to get up and walk to the concourse yourself the lines are not as bad as at other major ballparks and move rather swiftly by comparison.  The prices of concessions are not as bad as many other parks across the league; most beers will only run you about $5 while other stadiums charge $9-11.  Hot Dogs will only run you $3 which is a huge advantage over many other stadiums, and you can get a signature sandwich for only $6.  Overall the concessions create a great amount of value for the fans at the game.

If you’re looking to walk away with a souvenir from the game, sitting in the first rows in the left field presents a great opportunity to do so.  The fence in left field is one of the lowest in baseball and is only 329 ft down the line so a hard line drive can quickly turn into a homer.  If the Pirates take one out of the park get ready for a great fireworks display in the outfield.

Things to check out

Budweiser Bowtie Bar

The Budweiser Bowtie Bar is located in the right field corner, and if you get there early enough, you can grab a bar stool with a view of the game. If you want to have a beer with the game, there is no better place to do so than the Budweiser Bowtie Bar.

Highmark Legacy Square

Inside the left field entrance is the Highmark Legacy Square, an interactive exhibit that honors the Negro Leagues. There are videos for fans to watch, statues to see, and it is free to anyone to visit!

Kids Play Area

If you’re bringing the kids to the game, make sure to stop by the kids play area before the game. Located in center field, the play area is the perfect place for kids to work out all of their extra energy before the game.

Retired Numbers and Pennants

Located along the upper deck, are the Pirates retired numbers and pennants. Take a minute to remember the greatest players and teams in Pirates history by taking in the retired numbers and pennants during your trip to PNC Park.

View of Downtown

PNC Park offers a breathtaking view of downtown Pittsburgh. Pretty much no matter where you’re sitting in the park, you’ll have an excellent view of Pittsburgh during your trip to PNC Park.

Pirates Quiz

During the middle of the fourth inning, a fan is quizzed on their Pirates knowledge with the chance to win $150 or whatever is in The Mystery Box. Stay tuned during the middle of the fourth inning to see how much your fellow fans know.

Pirates Q&A

In the fourth and fifth innings, the Pirates players are all asked the same question, and their responses are shown on the video scoreboard, usually accompanied with laughs from the fans. See what your favorite players know and don't’ know during the Pirates Q&A.

The Great Pittsburgh Pierogi Race

Started in 1999, this tradition takes place during the sixth inning and features Jalapeno Hannah, Sauerkraut Saul, Cheese Chester, and the Incredible Oliver Onion racing around a track dressed as pierogies. Don’t miss the Great Pittsburgh Pierogi Race as its one of the most unforgettable parts of any Pirates game.

Jolly Roger Flag

After Pirates victories, announcer Greg Brown’s signature battle cry “Raise the Jolly Roger!” can be heard throughout the stadium as the flag raises in center field.

Pirate Parrot

The lovable Pirates mascot can be seen throughout the game entertaining the crowd. Fans, especially kids, love Pirate Parrot, so keep an eye out for him during the game.

Fight Songs

  1. Raise the Jolly Roger

    This popular battle cry is chanted by Pirates fans following Pittsburgh victories.

    It’s time to go, we always know that black and gold won’t fail us. Rolling hills and rivers three, to victory they lead us!

    Time to make some history, our city made of steel. Pirates love is what we have and this is what we cheer!

    Raise the Jolly Roger! Raise the Jolly Roger! (Raise it!) Raise the Jolly Roger!

    We are three rivers strong, and it’s time you sing along… Raise it!

    Raise it! Raise the Jolly Roger! (Raise it!) Raise the Jolly Roger! (Raise it!) Raise the Jolly Roger!

    We are three rivers strong, and it’s time you sing along…

    that grandstands and the waving hands, pierogies and the parrot! Pirates fans they love their ale and very rarely share it!

    It’s time to make some history, our city made of steel! Pirate love is what we have and this is what we cheer!!

    Raise it! Raise the Jolly Roger! (Raise it!) Raise the Jolly Roger! (Raise it!) Raise the Jolly Roger! (Raise it!)

    We are three rivers strong, and yinz can sing along!

    Raise it! Raise the Jolly Roger! (Raise it!) Raise the Jolly Roger! (Raise it!) Raise the Jolly Roger! (Raise it!)

  2. Bucco Fever

    Let’s go Bucs! Let’s go Bucs!

    The battlin’ Bucs are back and they’re on the attack! They’re playing so fine and we’re losing our mind.

    ‘Cutch in center field batting. 325 and Pedro’s at the plate hittin’ homers all night. Now the North Shore has been buzzin’ since the Bucco’s came to play.

    So raise it cause we’re winnin’ tonight. The Pirates got the pennant in sight. And we know that our Bucs are gonna win.

    A.J.’s on the mound and he strikes out the side, Liriano’s breaking ball, gets the shark tank to rise

    Clemente, Stargell, Mazeroski Makin’ them proud, Neil walker hits a RBI and the fans get so loud.

    Now raise that Jolly Roger! ‘Cause the Buccos came to play, oh yeah!

    So raise it cause we’re winnin’ tonight. The Pirates got the pennant in sight. And we know that our Bucs are gonna win.

    Let’s go Bucs! Let’s go Bucs! Let’s go Bucs! Let’s go Bucs! Let’s go Bucs! Let’s go Bucs! Let’s go Bucs! Let’s go Bucs!

    So raise it cause we’re winnin’ tonight. The Pirates got the series in sight. And we know that our Bucs are gonna win.

    The Buccos gonna win! our Bucs are gonna win! The Bucs are gonna win!

  3. Let’s Go Bucs

    Take me out to where the Pirates play

    Catch the sights, cheer the plays, feel the glory of yesterday

    Centerfield, grand slams, fans and Cracker Jack

    Crowd cheers, I don’t care if I ever get back

    I listen to the game with my radio on

    Clap along to the rhythm of a Bucco song

    Two aboard, full count with nobody out

    Stomp your feet, line drive everybody shout Root, root, root for our home team

    A new Pirate generation everybody shout, “Let’s Go Bucs!”

    With every slide there’ll be Pittsburgh pride

    At the ol’ ball game everybody shout, Let’s Go Bucs!

    Cross the bridge, through the gate to the field of green

    Young and old stories told from your childhood dream

    Pops, Wagner, Traynor, Maz, and heroes yet to be named

    Great catch, clutch hits like Clemente played

    I listen to the game with my radio on

    Clap along to the rhythm of a Bucco song

    Two aboard, full count with nobody out

    Stomp your feet, line drive everybody shout

    Root, root, root for our home team

Pirates Bars & Restaurants

  1. Bar Marco

    Bar Marco beer

    Bar Marco serves simple but hearty foods sourced from local purveyors, with a focus on small production and natural wines along with craft cocktails.

    2216 Penn Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15222, USA

    412-471-1900

    Bar website

    american - cafe - $$

  2. Olive or Twist

    wine

    Pittsburgh's premier martini bar is conveniently located between Heinz Hall, the Byham Theater and the Renaissance Hotel.

    140 6th St, Pittsburgh, PA 15222, USA

    412-255-0525

    Bar website

    american - $$

  3. SoHo

    Soho bar

    SoHo is an American Bar and Restaurant that offers a multitude of drinks and a great gastronomic menu, frequented by business people and sports lovers.

    203 Federal St, Pittsburgh, PA 15212, USA

    412-321-7646

    Bar website

    american - $$

  4. Tequila Cowboy Bar & Grill

    Tequila Cowboy drink

    Tequila Cowboy offers an exciting experience with dining and a revved up nightlife.

    380 N Shore Dr, Pittsburgh, PA 15212, USA

    412-930-0895

    Bar website

    american - $$

  5. McFadden’s Saloon

    McFaddens_Pittsburgh

    McFadden's Pittsburgh is the ultimate adult playground! From bustling
    happy hours to wild late-night revelry.

    211 N Shore Dr, Pittsburgh, PA 15212, USA

    412-322-3470

    Bar website

    american - $$

  6. Carson City Saloon

    Carson City beer

    #1 Sports Bar in Pittsburgh known for its 64oz fishbowl the "Papa Smurf" and College Night specials!

    1401 E Carson St, Pittsburgh, PA 15203, USA

    412-481-3203

    Bar website

    american - sportsbar - $$

  7. Buckhead Saloon

    Buckhead Saloon beer

    Buckhead Saloon has long been the best place to catch your favorite team in action!

    225 W Station Square Dr, Pittsburgh, PA 15219, USA

    412-232-3104

    Bar website

    pizza - $$

  8. Mullen’s Bar and Grill

    Mullens bar drink

    The “Mullen’s Experience” is as diverse as our menu…Join us for a post-work exhale over martinis with your co-workers or host your best-friend’s birthday.

    200 Federal St, Pittsburgh, PA 15212, USA

    412-231-1112

    Bar website

    sportsbar - $$

  9. Redbeard’s On Sixth

    beer

    Your downtown destination for Awesome Drinks, Amazing Food, Outstanding Sports and a heck of a good time!

    144 6th St, Pittsburgh, PA 15222, USA

    412-261-2324

    Bar website

    american - sportsbar - $$

  10. Primanti Bros

    Primanti Bros pasta

    Wonder what all the fuss is about? Not us. We created it. Impress your friends. Read and share the short history of the “Almost Famous” Primanti’s sandwich.

    2 Market Square, Pittsburgh, PA 15222, USA

    412-263-2142

    Bar website

    american - sportsbar - $

  11. The Burgatory

    Burgatory

    Blessed be the Burgers!

    5834, 342 N Shore Dr, Pittsburgh, PA 15212, United States

    412-586-5846

    Bar website

    american - $$

  12. Proper Brick Oven & Tap Room

    Proper Brick Oven

    Proper Brick Oven & Tap Room offers wood-fired pizzas, fresh pastas, house-made desserts, 30 craft beers on tap, 20+ wines by the glass, and cocktails.

    139 7th St, Pittsburgh, PA 15222, USA

    412-281-5700

    Bar website

    italian - pizza - $$

  13. Hyde Park Prime Steakhouse

    Hyde park

    Dine in Beachwood’s beautiful wine cellar, complete with your own fireplace, dining area, and private lounge.

    247 N Shore Dr, Pittsburgh, PA 15212, USA

    412-222-4014

    Bar website

    steakhouse - $$$

  14. Winghart’s Burger & Whiskey Bar

    Wingharts Burger Whiskey Bar

    Winghart’s began as a small counter in Market Square with a simple philosophy: what if you took the preparation practices of a world-class fine dining restaurant and applied it to simple “bar” food?

    5 Market Square, Pittsburgh, PA 15222, USA

    412-434-5600

    Bar website

    american - pizza - $

  15. Mullen’s Bar & Grill

    Mullens Bar and Grill

    The “Mullen’s Experience” is as diverse as our menu…Join us for a post-work exhale over martinis with your co-workers or host your best-friend’s birthday.

    200 Federal St, Pittsburgh, PA 15212, USA

    630-505-0240

    Bar website

    sportsbar - $$

  16. Meat & Potatoes

    Meat Potatoes

    Chef Richards' favorite type of food is simple and approachable; it is the type of food that a chef would eat after a busy day at work.

    649 Penn Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15222, USA

    412-325-7007

    Bar website

    american - $$$

  17. Allegheny Sandwich Shop

    Allegheny Sandwich Shop

    By using freshest ingredients, and piling our sandwiches high with the best ingredients, we’ve gotten ourselves a reputation for being one of the best local sandwich spots for friends and families to satisfy their cravings.

    822 Western Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15233, USA

    412-322-4797

    Bar website

    american - $

  18. Peppi’s

    Peppis

    Been serving the most outstanding subs to the people of Pittsburgh since 1983

    927 Western Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15233, USA

    412-231-9009

    Bar website

    american - $