Progressive Field Travel Guide

If you’re planning a trip to Progressive Field in Cleveland, get ready for a real baseball experience at one of America’s most fan-friendly ballparks. This urban landmark gives you an intimate setting, great sightlines, tons of food choices, and easy access to all the downtown Cleveland action. You’ll find the stadium simple to get around, with plenty of parking close by, so first-timers don’t need to stress on game day.

Watching the Guardians is just the start—Progressive Field has some cool extras, like the old bullpen near section 113, The Corner Bar, or even a ballpark tour that lets you peek into the dugouts and Hall of Fame. Need info about gates, stadium policies, or the Guardians Team Shop? The information guide covers all that.

Hungry? You won’t stay that way here. The food choices scattered across the concourse keep things interesting. Since the ballpark sits right downtown, you can easily fill your day with restaurants, museums, or other attractions just a short walk or drive away.

Getting to Progressive Field

Progressive Field sits smack in the middle of downtown Cleveland, and fans can get there a bunch of different ways. It really depends on where you’re coming from and how you like to travel.

Location and Directions

You’ll find Progressive Field at 2401 Ontario Street in downtown Cleveland, Ohio. It’s super accessible from big highways like I-90, I-71, and I-77.

Driving in from the west? Take I-90 East and get off at the East 9th Street exit, then follow the stadium signs. Coming from the east, hop on I-90 West and do the same. If you’re south of the city, just take I-71 North or I-77 North into downtown and follow the signs for Progressive Field. The ballpark sits close to Lake Erie in the Gateway District.

Ontario Street (west), Carnegie Avenue (south), East 9th Street (east), and Larry Doby Way (north) surround the stadium. These streets help you get your bearings as you approach.

Parking Options

You’ll find several parking lots and garages around Progressive Field, and prices change depending on how close you want to park. The Gateway East Garage hooks right into the ballpark, so it’s super convenient—though it usually costs more.

Other surface lots and garages sit just a few blocks away. Expect to pay anywhere from $10 to $30, depending on how far you’re willing to walk and how many people are coming to the game.

If you’re looking to save a few bucks, try parking in the Warehouse District or Playhouse Square. It’s about a 10–15 minute walk, but your wallet will thank you.

Apps like ParkMobile or SpotHero let you buy a spot in advance, and sometimes you’ll get a deal. Come early if you want the best parking, especially for big games.

Public Transportation

The RTA (Greater Cleveland Regional Transit Authority) makes getting to Progressive Field pretty painless. The RTA Rapid Transit rail works great—Red, Green, and Blue lines all meet at Tower City Center.

From Tower City, you can stroll over to the stadium using a covered walkway, so you won’t have to worry about rain or snow. It takes about 10–15 minutes on foot.

RTA buses also stop close by. The HealthLine (Route 55) runs along Euclid Avenue, with stops near the park.

A single RTA ride costs $2.50, and day passes go for $5.50. It’s a solid way to dodge parking headaches and post-game traffic.

Walking and Biking Access

Downtown Cleveland’s gotten a lot more pedestrian-friendly, so if you’re staying close, walking to Progressive Field makes sense. Hotels like Hilton Cleveland Downtown and The Westin are both about a 10–15 minute walk away.

East 4th Street—a busy spot for food and nightlife—sits just a few blocks from the stadium, making it easy to arrive early and soak up the atmosphere.

For cyclists, Cleveland’s added more bike lanes downtown. Bike racks sit outside the stadium, but they fill up fast.

UHBikes, the city’s bike share program, has stations all over downtown—including near the ballpark. Just grab the UHBikes app and you’re set for a quick ride.

Ticketing and Entry

If you want to see a Cleveland Guardians game at Progressive Field, you’ll need a plan for tickets and entry. Here’s what to expect.

Purchasing Tickets

Grab your Cleveland Guardians tickets online through the team’s site to avoid hidden fees. The MLB Ballpark app also lets you store tickets on your phone, which is super handy.

Ticket prices shift based on who’s playing, the day, and where you want to sit. Games against rivals or on weekends usually cost more. If you’re looking for a deal, weekday games are often cheaper.

Every fan over age 3 needs a ticket—no wiggle room on that.

If you’re buying last-minute, the box office opens on game days. But for big games, you might strike out, so buying ahead is smart.

Entry Gates and Security

You’ll find multiple gates at Progressive Field, and they open two hours before first pitch for most games. Gate A Plaza, right at Carnegie and Ontario, acts as the main entrance.

Security checks include bag inspections and metal detectors. The stadium runs a clear bag policy, like most MLB parks. You can bring outside food if it’s in a single-serving container, but leave cans, glass bottles, and alcohol at home.

Try to arrive at least 30 minutes before the game to skip the worst lines. Getting there early also gives you time to explore before heading to your seat.

Gate opening times can change for special events or weekends, so double-check before you go.

Accessibility Services

Progressive Field makes accessibility a priority. Wheelchair-accessible seating is spread throughout, with companion seats right next to them.

If you need a wheelchair to get around, stop by the Guest Services centers. They lend them out, but it’s first-come, first-served.

You can borrow assistive listening devices from Guest Services by leaving your ID. If you need a sign language interpreter, contact customer service ahead of time.

Accessible parking spots sit in nearby garages and lots, and a drop-off area for guests with mobility concerns sits on East 9th Street.

Service animals are welcome everywhere in the ballpark, following ADA rules.

Stadium Layout and Seating Guide

Progressive Field has a seat for just about every taste and budget. The design gives you solid views from most spots, with special sections for families and guests needing accessibility.

Seating Sections Overview

The ballpark splits into several main seating levels. The 100 Level lower bowl puts you close to the action, especially along the baselines.

Up on the 300 Level, you’ll find club seats with extra perks, while the 400–500 Levels offer more affordable seats with a bird’s-eye view. Even those upper deck seats give you a clear look at the whole field.

Diamond Box seats behind home plate put you right in the thick of things, and Field Box sections run down the lines for great player views.

Most seats angle toward the infield, so you won’t leave with a sore neck.

Premium and Club Seating

The 300 Club Level delivers some of the best views in the stadium. These premium seats come with wider, padded chairs and exclusive indoor lounges with air conditioning—great for escaping the summer heat or a sudden rain shower.

Club seats let you order food and drinks right from your seat, so you won’t miss a pitch. You also get access to shorter lines at special concession stands and some unique menu items.

If you want the high life, check out the Dugout Suites near the teams’ dugouts. These private spots come with all-inclusive food and drinks.

The Champions Club behind home plate is another top-tier option, with killer views and a complimentary upscale buffet.

Family and Accessible Seating

Progressive Field really tries to make families and guests with accessibility needs comfortable. The Family Deck gives kids room to move while parents can still watch the game.

If you’re watching your budget, the Family Value section offers cheaper tickets with special meal deals. These seats are usually up high but still give you a solid view.

ADA-compliant seating exists on every level, with companion seats right next to wheelchair spaces. These spots have better sightlines and easy access to restrooms and food.

Elevators and ramps make every level reachable, no matter your mobility. Guest Services can loan you an assistive listening device, and service animals are welcome everywhere.

Food and Drink at Progressive Field

The food scene at Progressive Field goes way beyond hot dogs and peanuts. You’ll find local Cleveland favorites, craft beers, and plenty of classic stadium eats all around the concourse.

Top Concession Stands

Barrio is a fan favorite, with a lively vibe and a menu that lets you build your own tacos just how you like them.

Craving something different? Try the chicken and waffle sandwich—a sweet and savory hit with regulars. The bacon-wrapped knockwurst on a pretzel bun is another must-try.

Buffalo chicken mac and cheese brings the comfort, especially on chilly nights.

If you’ve got a ticket for the Discount Drug Mart Club Lounge Seats, you’ll get all-you-can-eat food and non-alcoholic drinks included—a pretty good deal if you’re planning to sample a bunch of stuff.

Local Cleveland Cuisine

Happy Dog brings its iconic hot dogs and wild toppings to the ballpark, adding a real Cleveland twist to your game day.

Dante’s Inferno serves up pizza that’s actually good—wood-fired and way better than most stadium slices.

Fat Head’s Brewery dishes out big sandwiches that fill you up. The portions are generous, so you get your money’s worth (well, by stadium standards).

Want to save a little cash? You can bring your own food, as long as it’s sealed. Lots of locals pack sandwiches, fruit, or bags of peanuts from nearby stores.

Great Lakes Brewing Co and Beverage Options

Great Lakes Brewing Co has become a Cleveland staple, and you’ll find their beers all over Progressive Field. Dortmunder Gold and Burning River Pale Ale show up as fan favorites, especially when you’re grabbing classic ballpark eats.

The Brew Kettle brings more local craft beer into the mix, offering a handful of varieties around the stadium. If you’re into hops, White Rajah IPA deserves a try.

If you’re skipping alcohol, those refillable souvenir cups give you the most bang for your buck on soft drinks. Free water stations dot the concourse, so just bring an empty bottle and fill up as needed.

You’ll find premium cocktails and wine at several bars on the main concourse, but honestly, they’re pricier than beer. On sweltering summer days, frozen drinks like daiquiris can really hit the spot.

Ballpark Traditions and Fan Experience

Progressive Field isn’t just about baseball—there’s a whole entertainment vibe with mascots, music, and fans who bring the energy that makes every game feel bigger than just nine innings.

Cleveland Guardians Mascots

The Guardians’ main mascot is Slider, that fuzzy purple character who pops up everywhere. Slider breaks out dance moves, stunts, and loves mixing it up with fans. You’ll spot him in the stands, snapping photos or firing t-shirts into the crowd.

Other mascots join the fun during special events and weekend games, especially when the Cleveland Guardians ballpark tour rolls through. Kids seem to gravitate to them the most.

If you want to meet Slider, swing by the main concourse before the game. He usually hangs out near the Kids Clubhouse in the right field corner about an hour before first pitch.

Announcer and Game-Day Entertainment

The stadium announcer sets the tone with player intros and game updates. Between innings, the scoreboard lights up with fan contests, trivia, and highlight reels.

You can’t miss the “Hot Dog Derby”—people in hot dog costumes race around the warning track, and the crowd always picks a favorite condiment to cheer on.

Music shapes the whole experience at Progressive Field. When the Guardians hit a home run or clinch a win, “Cleveland Rocks” by The Presidents of the United States of America blares over the speakers. And let’s not forget the seventh-inning stretch—everyone belts out “Take Me Out to the Ball Game.”

Indians Fans and Community

Guardians fans (formerly Indians fans) show up with passion and respect for the game. The most die-hard folks usually gather in the bleachers, chanting and drumming through the innings.

John Adams, who beat his bass drum at almost every home game for over four decades, started a tradition that still echoes through the park. Even after his passing, the drumbeat lives on.

Progressive Field is a great spot for families, with solid fan services. First-timers should check out the Fan Services booths (sections 153, 178, and 550) for a free first visit certificate—a fun little souvenir.

The Guardians stay connected with Cleveland through youth baseball programs and charity events all year.

Heritage and Attractions at Progressive Field

Progressive Field lets you soak up Cleveland’s baseball history while enjoying all the modern comforts. The stadium carves out spaces to honor legendary players and the team’s long story.

Heritage Park

Heritage Park sits behind the center field wall, where a picnic area once stood. This two-level, landscaped spot pays homage to Cleveland’s baseball greats.

Bronze plaques line the park, commemorating franchise legends like Bob Feller, Larry Doby, and Jim Thome.

They opened Heritage Park in 2007 to give fans a quiet place to reflect on the team’s history, yet you still feel the ballpark energy in the background.

You can wander through Heritage Park during games or as part of the stadium tour.

Cleveland Indians Hall of Fame

The Cleveland Indians Hall of Fame highlights the franchise’s most influential players, managers, and contributors. You’ll find the exhibit inside Progressive Field, and it’s a deep dive into the team’s legacy.

Interactive displays, memorabilia, and artifacts walk you through Cleveland baseball from the early days to now.

You’ll spot jerseys, old gear, and photos from big games at both Progressive Field and the old Municipal Stadium.

The Hall of Fame stays open during all home games—just show your game ticket to get in.

Planning Your Game Day

Heading to Progressive Field takes a bit of planning if you want the best Guardians game experience. Here’s what you need to know to make game day smooth, from tickets to security to getting help.

Schedule and Promotions

The Guardians usually play 81 home games at Progressive Field from April through September. Weekend games and big rivalries sell out fast.

You’ll want to check the official site for the latest schedule and promotions. Themed nights, fireworks, and giveaways like bobbleheads pop up all season.

Dollar Dog Nights draw big crowds—$1 hot dogs all game long. Family Sundays bundle deals for those with kids.

Arriving 1-2 hours before first pitch gives you time to explore, watch batting practice, or maybe snag an autograph.

Honestly, buying tickets in advance through the official site or app is the way to go.

Bag and Security Policies

Progressive Field keeps things safe with a clear bag policy at Cleveland Guardians games. Only clear plastic, vinyl, or PVC bags up to 12″ x 6″ x 12″ get through.

Small clutch bags (about 4.5″ x 6.5″) don’t have to be clear. Diaper bags and medical bags can come in but will get a close inspection.

Leave these at home:

• Outside food and drinks
• Weapons
• Hard coolers
• Drones
• Noisemakers, whistles, or laser pointers

Everyone goes through metal detectors at the gate. Try to show up at least 30 minutes before game time so you’re not stuck in line.

Gates open 90 minutes before first pitch on weekdays, two hours before on weekends.

Customer Service and Guest Assistance

Progressive Field does a solid job with customer service. Guest Services centers sit behind home plate on the main concourse and behind section 550 up top.

Look for staff in bright red or navy jackets—they’ll answer questions or point you to whatever you need. Every section has ushers to help you find your seat or sort out issues.

Families get:

• Nursing stations
• Changing tables in all restrooms
• Stroller check
• Help if a child gets lost

The stadium is fully accessible—wheelchairs are available at any entrance, first come, first served.

Before you go, download the MLB Ballpark app for mobile tickets, concession orders, and a handy stadium map. You can even report issues straight to stadium staff through the app.

Exploring Downtown Cleveland

Downtown Cleveland puts you close to top sights, restaurants, and neighborhoods, all just a short walk from Progressive Field. The city center is compact, so it’s easy to explore before or after a Guardians game.

Nearby Attractions

The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame stands out as the city’s top attraction—music fans could get lost in the memorabilia and interactive exhibits for hours.

The Cleveland Museum of Art offers free entry to its impressive collection, which spans everything from ancient Egypt to modern art.

North Coast Harbor along Lake Erie gives you green spaces, walking paths, and a great view of the skyline.

Other spots worth checking out:

• Great Lakes Science Center
• Cleveland Public Square
• The Arcade (historic shopping center)
• Playhouse Square (theater district)

Dining and Nightlife

East 4th Street is where Cleveland’s nightlife and food scene converge, just steps from Progressive Field. Michael Symon’s Mabel’s BBQ and Lola Bistro pull in foodies from all over.

The Flats East Bank sits right on the Cuyahoga River, with places like Alley Cat Oyster Bar and Collision Bend Brewing Company offering outdoor patios for those summer nights.

Quick eats before the game? Try:

• Barrio (tacos)
• Melt Bar & Grilled (gourmet grilled cheese)
• Happy Dog (hot dogs with a twist)

West 6th Street buzzes with everything from dive bars to fancy cocktail spots and dance clubs. Most places keep the party going until 2 AM on weekends.

Neighborhoods: Ohio City and More

Ohio City, just over the Cuyahoga River, has turned into a hotspot for food and craft beer. The West Side Market, open since 1912, packs over 100 vendors into one lively space.

Great Lakes Brewing Company really kicked off Cleveland’s craft beer scene. You can tour the brewery or grab a meal at their brewpub, where the menu leans into beer-infused dishes. Newer breweries have popped up nearby, so you can easily make a beer trail out of it.

Tremont brings a different vibe, with art galleries, boutiques, and a ton of dining options. The area hosts monthly art walks in the warmer months.

Little Italy, near University Circle, serves up classic Italian food and pastries. The Feast of the Assumption festival in August turns the neighborhood into a street party with food, music, and cultural flair.

Visiting Other Notable MLB Stadiums

Progressive Field is a great place to catch a game, but checking out other MLB stadiums can give you a whole new perspective on baseball culture. Every ballpark has its own quirks, stories, and features.

Busch Stadium

Busch Stadium in St. Louis stands out for its awesome view of the Gateway Arch. Opened in 2006, it seats about 45,000 fans.

If you’re heading there, get to Ballpark Village early. It’s right next door and packed with restaurants, bars, and the Cardinals Hall of Fame Museum.

The food scene at Busch Stadium goes beyond the basics. Locals swear by toasted ravioli and Ted Drewes frozen custard.

For the best views of the game and the Arch, grab seats along the third-base line. Tickets run from $20 for standing room to over $200 for premium spots.

Cardinals fans have a reputation for being both knowledgeable and welcoming—even if you’re cheering for the other team, you’ll feel right at home.

Yankees Ballpark Highlights

The new Yankee Stadium blends modern perks with plenty of throwbacks to the team’s legendary past. Sitting right in the Bronx, this ballpark opened its doors in 2009 and welcomes fans to Monument Park—a spot every die-hard should check out, packed with tributes to Yankees icons.

You’ll walk in through the Great Hall, which honestly feels massive with its 31-foot ceiling and those giant banners of Yankees greats hanging overhead. If you’re into baseball history, the Yankees Museum inside the stadium shows off all sorts of memorabilia, even Babe Ruth’s bat. It’s hard not to geek out a little.

Food here goes way beyond basic ballpark snacks. Grab some of the famous garlic fries (seriously, don’t skip these) or, if you’re feeling fancy, swing by Lobel’s for a steak sandwich that’s probably better than it needs to be.

Getting there isn’t complicated—just hop on the B, D, or 4 trains. Honestly, it’s smart to show up at least an hour early. Security lines can drag, and you’ll want a little time to wander and soak in the place before first pitch.

Tickets? Yeah, they’re pricier than most other ballparks. Still, getting to watch the Yankees at home—especially if you’re a fan—feels like something you’ve got to do at least once.