loanDepot Park Travel Guide

Thinking about heading to Miami for a Marlins game? LoanDepot park gives baseball fans a taste of Florida with its modern amenities and unmistakable Miami vibe. You can get there easily—two Miami-Dade Metrorail stops sit within a mile of the stadium, and the Tri Rail connects through the Historic Overtown/Lyric Theatre station.

You’ll find loanDepot park in Little Havana, showing off some pretty unique architecture and a retractable roof that’ll save you from Miami’s wild weather. Multiple entrances make getting in simple: Gate 1 has a Member Express lane, and Gate 3 sits right off Felo Ramirez Drive at the Home Plate Garage. Some folks say the atmosphere feels a bit soulless (see here), but the food options bring Miami’s flavors right to your seat.

Overview of loanDepot park

LoanDepot park stands out as Miami’s top baseball spot, blending modern design with the city’s lively culture. Home to the Miami Marlins, the stadium keeps you cool with air conditioning and offers amenities you just don’t get at most other ballparks.

Ballpark Features

You don’t have to worry about rain or sweltering heat here—the retractable roof closes fast and keeps the temperature at a comfortable 75 degrees. The design gives you clear sight lines from almost every seat, so you won’t miss the action.

Behind center field, there’s the colorful home run sculpture. It used to light up for Marlins home runs, but now it sits outside as a quirky art piece.

Some of the features fans talk about:

• Retractable roof that closes in just 13 minutes
• Four main entrances matched to parking garages
• The Clevelander club area with a swimming pool
• Concession stands serving up Miami’s local eats

History and Significance

LoanDepot park opened its doors in 2012 as Marlins Park, taking over from the old Sun Life Stadium. The stadium got its current name in 2021 after a naming rights deal.

Built right in Little Havana, the stadium connects to Miami’s cultural roots. The $634 million project went for a look that’s sleek and modern, with glass facades that really make it stand out in the baseball world.

The Marlins finally got their own baseball-specific stadium after years of sharing with the Dolphins. Even though the team has struggled with attendance, this place shows they’re committed to Miami.

Events Hosted

LoanDepot park isn’t just for Marlins games. The stadium has hosted big events like the World Baseball Classic in 2017 and 2023, bringing in international baseball stars.

You’ll also find concerts, boxing matches, and other sports here when baseball’s off. Local colleges use the field for baseball games, too.

Sometimes during the MLB All-Star break, the park throws special events like Home Run Derby viewing parties. Companies and private groups often rent out the premium spaces for their own gatherings.

Getting to loanDepot park

Getting to the Marlins’ home stadium is pretty straightforward, whether you’re using public transit or driving. The park sits right in Little Havana, so it’s not hard to reach from most parts of Miami.

Public Transportation Options

Miami’s transit system gives you a few ways to reach loanDepot park without fighting for parking. MetroBus routes 7, 7A, 11, 51, and 208 all stop within walking distance of the stadium. Route 7A even connects straight from the Airport Station, which is handy if you’re flying in.

There’s no direct train to the ballpark, though. No trains go directly to the stadium from downtown or Brickell, which can be a letdown for visitors staying nearby.

Uber and Lyft are popular ways to get to the stadium, especially if you’re with a group or just can’t deal with the Miami heat.

Driving Directions

If you’re driving, it’s pretty simple. From I-95, take exit 1A toward NW 8th Street and follow the signs. Coming from the south via US-1? Head north and turn left onto SW 7th Street.

You’ll find the ballpark at 501 Marlins Way in Little Havana. Parking lots surround the stadium, with the closest ones on the north and east sides.

Buy your parking online ahead of time if you can—it saves some stress and maybe a few bucks. Garages 1-4 are closest, and surface lots are a bit cheaper but require a longer walk.

Traffic gets heavy before games, so try to arrive at least 90 minutes early if you want to avoid the rush and have time to look around.

Parking and Accessibility

Parking at loanDepot park is easy, with garages and surface lots all around the stadium. Accessibility features are in place for all fans.

Parking Lots and Garages

You’ll find four main parking garages on the North and South ends—Home Plate Garage, 3rd Base Garage, 1st Base Garage, and Center Field Garage.

There are also six surface lots on the East and West sides, usually a bit cheaper than the garages.

Pick your parking spot based on your seat location. If you’re behind home plate or on the third base side, go for the Home Plate or 3rd Base Garage. For first base or outfield, 1st Base or Center Field Garage is closer.

Buying parking in advance is a solid move. Prices run from $15 to $30, depending on which lot you choose and how popular the game is.

PayByPhone App Information

The PayByPhone app really simplifies parking at loanDepot park. Download it before you head out to save time.

With the app, you can pay for parking ahead of time, so you won’t have to wait in line at a machine. Just enter your spot and payment info, and you’re good to go.

You can even get reminders if your parking is about to expire or extend your time remotely if the game runs long. No need to dash back to your car.

You’ll see QR codes at each parking location—scan those to go straight to the right spot in the app. Keep your digital receipt handy in case an attendant asks for proof.

Accessible Parking and Entry

LoanDepot park makes accessibility a priority. ADA accessible parking is available in every lot and garage, close to elevators and entrances. Just display your valid permit or license plate, and you’re set. Standard rates still apply.

The stadium has two vertical ramps for moving between levels, which is great if you want to skip the elevators.

All four main entrances are wheelchair accessible, and staff stand by to help anyone with mobility needs. For more help, reach out to Guest Services ahead of your visit.

Inside, there’s accessible seating in every section, with companion seats nearby. Elevators run to all floors for those who need them.

Ticketing and Entry

Getting into loanDepot park goes smoother if you plan ahead. Here’s what you need to know about buying tickets and entering the Marlins’ home stadium.

Purchasing Tickets

Grab your Marlins tickets from the official MLB site or the team website—they’re the most reliable. Prices usually start around $15 for outfield seats and climb to $100+ for premium spots behind home plate.

You’ll get the best deals if you buy at least two weeks before the game. Big games—like Opening Day or weekends against popular teams—sell out fast and cost more.

The Marlins run special deals, like family packs with food vouchers and multi-game packages. Season ticket holders get perks like special entrances and merch discounts.

Digital tickets are now the norm. Download the MLB Ballpark app to store and scan your tickets, and you can even upgrade seats on game day if something better pops up.

Entry Procedures

Try to arrive at loanDepot park at least 45 minutes before first pitch. Gates open 90 minutes early, giving you plenty of time to check things out.

Security includes metal detectors and bag checks. Only bring bags smaller than 16″ x 16″ x 8″—clear bags get you through faster.

There are multiple entrances, and Home Plate and Third Base gates usually move quickest. Your ticket will tell you which entrance leads straight to your seat.

Have your ticket ready on your phone before you hit the front of the line. If you run into trouble with your digital ticket, stadium staff can help.

Seating Options and Views

LoanDepot park gives you lots of seating choices, so you can find something that fits your style and budget. The stadium’s layout means you get good views from almost anywhere, with a little Miami flavor mixed in.

Premium Seats

Seats behind home plate really put you in the middle of the action. The Marlins Club and Home Plate Club come with padded seats, in-seat service, and access to air-conditioned lounges.

The Dugout Club puts you right at field level, close enough to hear the players chat.

Diamond Club seats sit between the dugouts, offering great views of both teams. These include all-you-can-eat food and drinks.

If you’re going all out, check out the suites—they’ve got private seating, dedicated attendants, and gourmet catering.

Family and Group Seating

The Caliente Party Terrace works well for groups of 50-75, with all-inclusive food and drinks. It’s a fun spot for company events or big family outings.

Families with kids might like the sections near the visitor’s bullpen, where you can watch pitchers warm up. Kids sometimes get a baseball tossed their way.

Rows 1-10 in sections 7-9 and 21-23 put you close to the field without premium prices—great for families who want solid views.

If you want a more relaxed vibe, the Budweiser Bow Tie Bar in center field lets you catch the game while enjoying drinks and snacks. There’s no assigned seating, so you can wander and take it all in.

Food and Beverage at loanDepot park

LoanDepot park brings Miami’s multicultural food scene right into the ballpark. Whether you’re craving a classic hot dog or itching to try something with a local twist, there’s a good chance you’ll stumble onto something delicious while you watch the game.

Concession Stands and Local Flavors

You’ll spot plenty of concession stands scattered all over the stadium, serving up familiar ballpark staples like hot dogs, soft pretzels, nachos, and popcorn. No need to search too hard—these are everywhere.

But if you’re in Miami, you’ve got to try a Cuban sandwich at least once. They press them with ham, roasted pork, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard, and honestly, they feel like a little tribute to Little Havana.

Looking for more local bites? Grab an empanada or a quesadilla. There’s a small kiosk near the right field foul pole that’s become pretty popular for its quesadillas.

Right by that, you’ll find “The Change Up” dining area. It’s got a rotating lineup that goes way beyond the usual stadium food—definitely worth a look if you’re feeling adventurous.

Specialty and Dietary Options

The park makes it pretty easy for folks with dietary needs—vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free items show up at several stands. Just check the menu boards; they’re clearly labeled.

If you’re craving something sweet, hit up the “Sweet Spot” for desserts and treats. There’s nothing like ice cream or a churro during those late innings, right? Sweet tooths welcome.

Want to splurge? The Brightline PREMIUM option gets you into the PREMIUM lounge with complimentary food and drinks. It’s a nice upgrade if you’re celebrating or just want to treat yourself.

You’ll also find lighter fare at a few stands—think salads, fruit cups, and grilled chicken. Sometimes you just want something fresh instead of fried, and they’ve got you covered.

Notable Vendors

For 2025, the park’s adding some new vendors, so it’s worth checking the stadium map to see what’s new.

Local Miami restaurants have set up shop inside the stadium, bringing real-deal flavors you won’t find at most parks. It’s a great way to get a taste of the city without leaving your seat.

Fan Favorites:

• Cuban sandwich stand near section 18
• Empanada kiosk by section 32
• The right field quesadilla stand
• “The Change Up” dining area

Thirsty? There’s a solid lineup of craft beers, cocktails, and non-alcoholic drinks. Bars around the park mix up specialty drinks with a Miami vibe—expect some tropical flavors that just fit the place.

Game Day Experience

A Miami Marlins game at loanDepot park is more than just baseball. The stadium mixes Miami’s lively culture with America’s pastime, so you’ll get plenty of color, music, and chances to join in the fun.

In-Stadium Entertainment

Marlins home games pulse with music and a crowd that feels like Miami—diverse and full of energy. Between innings, Billy the Marlin (the mascot) works the stadium, goofing off and keeping kids entertained.

The big video board in center field flashes game stats and funny clips, so it’s hard to get bored. And when the Marlins hit a home run, that wild sculpture in center field springs to life. It’s a weird, only-in-Miami thing.

During games, they run interactive contests on the video board. The “Kiss Cam” and “Dance Cam” get plenty of laughs and, honestly, sometimes a little secondhand embarrassment.

Fan Activities

If you arrive early, you can catch batting practice and maybe snag a player autograph. The VIP Tour lets you get down to field level for photos and a closer look at the action.

Take a lap around the promenade and check out the bobblehead display in center field. It’s a fun little walk through Marlins history—and a good spot for a quick photo.

You can grab a local craft beer at Biscayne Brewing inside the park. The beer selection has grown lately, so there’s more to try than just the usual stadium lagers.

When the World Baseball Classic comes to town, the whole place feels even more international. Country-specific fan zones pop up, with cultural displays and merch from all over the world.

Nearby Attractions and Neighborhoods

LoanDepot Park sits close to some of Miami’s best neighborhoods, so you’ve got plenty to explore before or after the game. Being right in Little Havana means you’re steps away from real Cuban culture, local restaurants, and entertainment you won’t find anywhere else.

Little Havana Culture

Little Havana is the pulse of Miami’s Cuban community. Walk along Calle Ocho (SW 8th Street) between 17th and 12th avenues and you’ll soak up the neighborhood’s flavor.

Domino Park, or Maximo Gomez Park, gives you a peek at daily life—older locals gather to play dominoes and chess, and the street art and murals tell stories of Cuban roots and journeys.

Throughout the year, the area throws cultural festivals (the Calle Ocho Festival is a big one). You’ll also find art galleries with Latin American works and the Tower Theater, which screens indie and foreign films.

If you’re curious, duck into a cigar shop and watch the pros hand-roll cigars the old-school way.

Local Restaurants and Nightlife

You can’t visit Little Havana without trying the food. Versailles Restaurant is the big name—folks call it “The World’s Most Famous Cuban Restaurant.” Their ropa vieja and Cuban sandwiches are classics. For something quick, hit up a ventanita (a window cafe) for Cuban coffee and pastries.

Ball & Chain is a historic bar that keeps the party going with live music and dancing. There’s even a pineapple-shaped stage out back where bands play most nights.

LoanDepot park’s location puts you a short drive from Brickell and Downtown Miami if you’re in the mood for upscale dining or more nightlife.

For something a little different, stroll SW 8th Street and check out Latin American cafes. El Rey de las Fritas makes a mean frita cubana (Cuban-style hamburger) that’s a local favorite.

Visiting Team Matchups

If you’re a baseball fan, loanDepot park brings a steady stream of exciting matchups all season. Teams from both leagues roll through Miami, so you’ll see a nice mix of playing styles and big-name players.

Notable MLB Teams at loanDepot park

The New York Yankees usually come to town once a season, and those games fill up fast. These interleague games pull in big crowds and sell out quickly, so if you want to go, grab tickets a couple months ahead.

When the Houston Astros visit, you get a taste of American League power hitting and sharp pitching—without the Yankees-level ticket prices.

You’ll see NL East rivals like the Chicago Cubs a few times a year. These games feel a bit more familiar, and the team often runs promos or themed nights.

The Colorado Rockies and Arizona Diamondbacks bring some Western Division flavor. These matchups usually have plenty of good seats left, even in the better sections, and prices tend to be reasonable.

Rivalries and Special Games

Games against the Pittsburgh Pirates come with a little extra history—think back to the 1997 NLCS when the Marlins won their first World Series. The park sometimes celebrates that era with tributes.

Division rivalries always crank up the energy. Look out for:

• Throwback uniform nights during rivalry games
• Bobblehead giveaways with current stars or legends
• Fireworks shows after Friday night divisional games

The Miami Marlins home opener is a big deal—expect special ceremonies and a packed house. Sometimes a celebrity throws out the first pitch, which is always fun to see.

Weekend series against playoff contenders draw the biggest crowds and the most buzz. The place gets noticeably louder and more packed than on a typical weekday.

Comparing loanDepot Park to Other MLB Ballparks

LoanDepot Park doesn’t feel like your average ballpark. With its modern design and quirky features, it stands out—sometimes in good ways, sometimes not so much—when you stack it up against other MLB stadiums.

Unique Design Elements

The retractable roof is a lifesaver in Miami’s heat and rain, and it gives the place a futuristic vibe that’s nothing like Fenway or Wrigley. Instead of old-school bricks and ivy, you get glass, steel, and a lot of bright colors.

That wacky home run display in center field? It’s pure Miami—bold, a little bizarre, and totally unique. You won’t see anything like it at traditional parks like Yankee Stadium.

There’s even an aquarium behind home plate. It’s one of those “only in Miami” touches you just don’t see at Citi Field or Petco Park. The whole place pops with color, which feels pretty different from the more muted tones at Nationals Park or Truist Park.

Fan Experience Differences

Depending on who you ask, loanDepot Park lands around 20th in MLB ballpark rankings. The air conditioning and roof keep everyone cool and dry—something you’ll appreciate if you’ve ever been rained on at Coors Field.

Parking is straightforward, with four main entrances and garages lined up with the gates. That’s a lot easier than finding your way around some of the older parks where you can feel lost before you even get inside. The perimeter design is a bit different, but it works.

Crowds at loanDepot Park don’t usually match the electric atmosphere you’ll find at places like Oriole Park or Globe Life Field. On the bright side, you’ll spend less time in line for food and have an easier time moving around.

Seats are comfortable, and the sightlines are great. Still, some fans say the place lacks a bit of soul compared to ballparks with decades of stories baked in. Maybe it just needs more time.

Travel Tips for Visitors

If you’re planning a visit to loanDepot park, timing, safety, and a bit of prep can make a big difference—especially if you’re bringing family or a group. A little planning goes a long way to making your Marlins game day smooth and fun.

Best Times to Visit

Weekday games usually draw smaller crowds than weekends at loanDepot park. If you want easier parking and shorter lines for snacks, shoot for Monday through Thursday games.

April and September? Those months bring comfortable weather—temps stick around the 70s and 80s°F. Miami summers (June through August) get brutally hot and humid, but thankfully, the retractable roof saves the day.

A few things to think about:

• Opponent popularity: When the Yankees, Cubs, or Mets come to town, expect a packed house.
• Game time: Summer afternoon games? It gets sweltering outside, even if it’s cool inside.
• Special promotions: Fireworks nights and giveaways always bring in more fans.

Try to get there at least 90 minutes before the first pitch—you’ll have time to wander the stadium and maybe even check out Little Havana.

Safety Recommendations

loanDepot park sits right in Miami’s Little Havana. Most visitors feel safe, but a bit of common sense goes a long way.

Stick to the official parking lots near the stadium instead of parking on the street. The official lots have security and give you easy access.

Keep these in mind:

• Hide your valuables in your car—out of sight, out of mind.
• Travel with friends if you can, especially after dark.
• Rideshare apps like Uber and Lyft make getting there a breeze.
• Only bring what you really need into the stadium.
• Drink plenty of water, especially if you’re catching a day game.

And don’t forget: loanDepot park is cashless. Bring your credit or debit card for everything.

Family and Group Travel Advice

Families will love the welcoming vibe at loanDepot park. Kids can check out the play area and try some interactive games, which definitely helps keep them entertained.

If you’re coming with a big group, reach out to the Marlins’ group sales office—just do it at least a couple of weeks in advance. Groups of 10 or more usually get ticket discounts, and sometimes you might even score a special experience.

Family-specific tips:

• Sundays: Kids get to run the bases after the game—always a hit
• Upper deck sections: These are usually easier on the wallet for families
• Stroller policy: You can bring small, foldable strollers
• Outside food: Some snacks are allowed, but double-check the latest policy

Groups should pick a meeting spot inside the stadium since cell service isn’t always reliable. The Promenade Level makes a pretty solid central spot, plus you can see a lot from there.