Atmosphere
Make sure to get to Petco Park early before the game to get the most out of your Padres game day. Not only do the Padres have a designated tailgating area, but the neighborhood surrounding Petco Park is also one of the best places to bar hop before a ballgame. The Gaslamp Quarter is home to tons of incredible bars and restaurants including Bub’s at the Ballpark, Bar Basic, and Mission Brewery.
If you aren’t looking to hit the bars, there is still plenty to do before a Padres game. The Padres offer several ballpark tours on game days with the closest to first pitch starting at 4:30 on typical 7:10 games. You can also take some time to check out Tony Gwynn Plaza, which is dedicated to the Padres legend, and see the Padres take batting practice.
No matter what kind of experience you’re looking for you’ll have an excellent time pregaming before a Padres game in beautiful San Diego.
Traditions
Tony Gwynn Plaza
Stop by the Tony Gwynn Plaza and pay tribute to the greatest player in Padres history. Gwynn was one of the best hitters in the history of baseball and a San Diego sports legend, so stop by Tony Gwynn Plaza before the game.
Batting Practice
If you want to see your favorite players warm up before the game, then make sure to get to the park early. Batting practice is a great time to get an autograph or ball from your favorite player.
Petco Park Tour
Arrive at Petco Park early and take a tour of the facility before the game. The tour cost $12 for adults and offers you the opportunity to see the dugout, press box, and the warning track. If you’re a big Padres or baseball fan, then a tour of Petco Park is a must during your trip to San Diego.
Where to tailgate
-
Tailgate ParkIf you’re looking to set up a tailgate before a Padres game, then look no further than Tailgate Park. Here’s the only place you can tailgate at Petco Park before the game, so head on over and fire up the grill before watching the Padres take the field.
-
Gaslamp QuarterPetco Field is located in the Gaslamp Quarter, which is home to plenty of great places to grab a drink or something to eat. Here you’ll find a variety of bars and restaurants including Bub’s at the Ballpark, Mission Brewery, and much more. If you’re looking to hang out with fellow Padres fans, then there is no better place to do so than in the Gaslamp.