Coolray Field Travel Guide

Thinking about catching a baseball game near Atlanta without breaking the bank? Coolray Field in Lawrenceville gives you a family-friendly vibe and a break from major league prices. The 10,000-seat stadium, home to the Gwinnett Stripers (Atlanta’s Triple-A affiliate), usually offers tickets around $15 and parking for just $5—honestly, it’s one of the best sports deals you’ll find in the area.

You’ll find Coolray Field about 40 minutes north of Atlanta’s Truist Park, right off I-85 and close to the Mall of Georgia. It’s easy to get to and has plenty of modern perks. You can bring one clear bag (no bigger than 12″ x 12″) with your stuff, so getting through security isn’t a hassle.

If you’re a baseball fan who likes seeing what goes on behind the scenes, the stadium runs 30-minute tours Monday through Friday from April to August for $15 per person. You get to peek into areas you’d never see during a regular game.

Overview of Coolray Field

Coolray Field gives fans a close-up Triple-A baseball experience with modern comforts and a bit of Georgia flavor in the architecture. It’s a sweet spot for affordable, family-friendly fun in Lawrenceville.

History and Construction

Coolray Field opened its doors in 2009 as Gwinnett Stadium, with a price tag around $64 million. Construction wrapped up in just 15 months so the Gwinnett Braves (now the Stripers) could move from Richmond, Virginia.

HKS Architects, the folks behind several big-name sports venues, designed the stadium. In 2010, Coolray, a heating and air company, bought the naming rights.

Gwinnett County funded the ballpark through bonds, making it a major investment for the area. The 10,427-seat stadium was built specifically for the Atlanta Braves’ Triple-A team, bringing pro baseball to Atlanta’s northern ‘burbs.

Location and Accessibility

You’ll find Coolray Field in Lawrenceville, Georgia, about 40 minutes north of Truist Park, home of the Atlanta Braves. The stadium sits just off I-85, so it’s pretty simple to get there from Atlanta or nearby towns.

Parking is just $5, which feels like a steal compared to big league stadiums. The parking lots surround most of the stadium, so even on packed nights, you’ll probably find a spot.

Public transportation doesn’t really reach the stadium, so driving is your best bet. You’ll find plenty of hotels and restaurants a short drive away, so it’s easy to make a whole day of it.

Stadium Architecture and Design

Coolray Field has that classic ballpark look but mixes in some modern touches for a more personal feel. The single-level seating bowl keeps everyone close to the action, and you get great views from almost any seat.

The brick exterior and green trim nod to old-school baseball, while the inside features a 360-degree concourse so you can circle the field without missing a pitch.

Some highlights:

• Berm seating in the outfield if you’re after budget-friendly lawn tickets
• Climate-controlled indoor seating for those hot Georgia days
• Clear bag policy (bags up to 12″ x 12″)
• Cashless payment system everywhere in the park

You’ll find both covered and open-air seating, so you can pick what works for the weather. Most seats run about $15 each, which is perfect if you’re looking for a family outing that won’t empty your wallet.

Attending a Game at Coolray Field

Coolray Field delivers a laid-back, up-close baseball experience without the big-league price tag. Watching the Gwinnett Stripers here means great sightlines and plenty of fun extras during the game.

Gwinnett Stripers and Minor League Baseball

The Gwinnett Stripers play Triple-A ball and serve as the Atlanta Braves’ top affiliate in the International League. You might remember them as the Gwinnett Braves before their 2018 rebrand. This is the highest level of minor league baseball (AAA).

Players you see here today could be at Truist Park with the Braves tomorrow. That close connection to the majors means you’ll watch future stars before they break out.

Triple-A rosters mix up-and-coming prospects with seasoned vets who’ve already played in the bigs. Teams like the Norfolk Tides (the Orioles’ affiliate) roll through, so you’ll catch solid competition.

You can get pretty close to the players—way closer than at most MLB parks. If you show up for batting practice, you’ll have a good shot at snagging autographs.

Ballpark Attendance

Coolray Field holds about 10,000 people, so the atmosphere feels intimate and lively. There’s really not a bad seat in the place. Lines for food and bathrooms stay short, especially compared to the majors.

Weeknight games are usually quieter, which is great if you prefer a chill night out. Weekend games, especially with fireworks or promos, draw bigger crowds.

You probably won’t see a sellout unless it’s opening day or a big fireworks night. So, if you’re spontaneous, you can often snag tickets last minute.

Family sections offer alcohol-free seating, and the outfield lawn is perfect if you want to relax picnic-style and let the kids run around.

Game Schedule and Tickets

The Stripers play from April to September, with over 70 home games. Most weeknight games start at 7:05 PM, and Sundays usually kick off at 1:05 PM.

Tickets range from about $8-15 for lawn seats to $15-25 for premium spots behind home plate. It’s a great deal compared to major league prices.

You can buy tickets:

• Online at the Stripers’ website
• At the Coolray Field box office
• By phone via the team’s ticket office

Look out for Thirsty Thursday™ (cheap drinks), Friday fireworks, and Sunday family days when kids can run the bases after the game.

If you’ve got a big group (20+), there are discounts for group tickets, plus options for picnics or suites.

Getting There and Parking

Coolray Field’s address is 2500 Buford Drive, Lawrenceville, Georgia. The stadium sits just off I-85, so it’s a breeze to reach from Atlanta or nearby suburbs.

Parking costs only $5 in the lots right around the stadium. They open 90 minutes before first pitch, and getting in and out is usually pretty easy.

No public transit goes directly to the stadium, so most folks drive. Uber and Lyft work well, and there’s a pickup/drop-off spot near the main entrance.

For groups, carpooling helps save on parking. You can pay extra for premium parking closer to the entrance if you want.

Traffic and crowds pick up on Friday and Saturday nights, so give yourself a little extra time.

Amenities and Features

Coolray Field packs in a bunch of amenities to make your baseball experience comfortable and fun. The stadium blends modern tech with seating options for everyone.

Luxury Suites and Seating Options

You’ll find several premium seating choices at Coolray Field, depending on your budget and how you like to watch the game. The luxury suites come with private entrances, climate-controlled spaces, and dedicated servers. Suites fit 20-24 guests and offer a killer view of the field.

If you’re after something more affordable, the box seats along the baselines are comfy and close to the action. The Home Plate Club gives you padded seats and in-seat service—great for die-hard fans.

Families love the outfield berm, where you can spread out a blanket and let the kids roam. It’s budget-friendly and flexible.

Tickets stay reasonable at about $15 per seat, so you don’t have to splurge for a good time.

Scoreboard and Technology

The giant high-def scoreboard in centerfield is hard to miss. It shows player stats, instant replays, and game info you can see from anywhere.

Coolray Field went all-in on cashless payments. Every purchase spot—from ticket windows to concessions and Pontoon Brewing—takes cards and mobile pay, no cash needed.

Free Wi-Fi covers the stadium, so you can post photos, check scores, or just scroll while you’re there.

The sound system is strong but not overwhelming. Announcements and music sound clear, and between innings, you’ll see interactive fan games on the scoreboard that keep things lively.

Dining and Food Options

Coolray Field serves up a range of food choices both at the stadium and nearby. Whether you want classic ballpark eats or something different, you’ve got options.

Concessions and Local Eats

Concession stands dot the ballpark, with menus that change up over time. The Pontoon Brewing Boathouse, right on the Main Concourse behind Home Plate, is a favorite for food and drinks. “All the Fixins” behind home plate is another go-to spot.

You’ll find standard ballpark food, though some fans have noticed the hot dog selection isn’t what it used to be. Still, concessions keep evolving.

For the full rundown, check the Food & Beverage page on the Stripers’ site. The concourse makes it easy to grab a bite and get back to your seat without missing much.

Nearby Restaurants

If you want to eat before or after the game, you’ve got plenty of choices close by. Thrill Korean Steak and Bar is nearby, and Mambo’s Café is another option.

Buford and Lawrenceville have lots of restaurants. Seasons 52 in Buford serves up seasonal dishes, and Bottles & Bones is a solid steakhouse. Red Lobster and P.F. Chang’s are also in Buford if you’re craving seafood or Asian.

You could also check out Nature Village Restaurant, Pickle and Social, or The Rooftop near the Views at Coolray by Pinnacle complex if you want a meal with a view.

Entertainment and Things To Do

Coolray Field isn’t just about baseball. The venue hosts all kinds of events throughout the year, so even if you’re not a die-hard fan, you’ll probably find something that catches your interest.

Concerts and Music Events

Several times a year, Coolray Field becomes a lively concert venue, drawing notable performers from all sorts of music genres. Over the years, folks have come out for big names like Willie Nelson in 2011, Chris Young in 2020, and Tedeschi Trucks Fireside Live in 2021.

Most concerts use the field itself for general admission standing, while the stadium seats give you a great view of the stage. The sound quality? Honestly, it’s better than you’d expect for an outdoor setup—the stadium’s shape helps keep the acoustics surprisingly clear.

Concert tickets usually run from $30 to $75, depending on who’s playing. If you want to avoid a parking headache ($5) and long lines, just show up a little early. You’ll find the same food and drink options during concerts as you do at ballgames.

Family-Friendly Activities

Coolray Field isn’t just about baseball. Throughout the season, the stadium rolls out all kinds of family events. Kids especially love the berm seating and big outfield lawn—plenty of space to run around and play.

Themed nights often bring pre-game fun, fireworks, and even character visits. There are play areas set aside for kids who need to burn off energy between innings.

Children under two get in free, so it’s easy on the wallet. The stadium also offers:

• Face painting on weekends
• Run-the-bases after Sunday games
• Inflatable attractions on select nights
• Mascot meet-and-greets
• Birthday party packages with special perks

Most of these activities come with your regular game ticket, so it’s a solid budget-friendly option for families.

Exploring the Surrounding Area

Coolray Field sits in a pretty lively part of town, with plenty to check out before or after a Stripers game. You’ll find a mix of history, arts, and outdoor spots all close by.

Historic Downtown Lawrenceville

Just a few minutes from Coolray Field, Historic Downtown Lawrenceville oozes small-town charm but with all the modern stuff you’d want. At the center sits the Gwinnett Historic Courthouse, a gorgeous 1885 building with a clock tower that’s kind of hard to miss.

Wander the brick sidewalks and pop into locally owned shops—antiques, handmade goods, you name it. If you’re hungry, there are over 25 different restaurants, everything from classic Southern to international eats.

The downtown area stays pretty lively with events like:

• Lawrenceville Ghost Tours (all year)
• Summer Concert Series (May-September)
• Lawrenceville Beer Fest (fall)
• Christmas Tree Lighting (December)

A lot of the buildings date back to the 1800s, so you get a real sense of Gwinnett County’s past while enjoying the latest shopping and dining.

Aurora Theatre and Arts

The Aurora Theatre leads Lawrenceville’s arts scene as the biggest professional theater in northeast Georgia. This old 1920s church now puts on Broadway-style musicals, comedies, and dramas all year.

Here’s what you’ll find at the Aurora:

• Main stage with 250 seats
• Black box for smaller, more intimate shows
• Comedy nights with local talent
• Kids’ theater programs

Beyond the Aurora, you can catch concerts at the Gwinnett School of Music or check out one of the art galleries downtown. The Tannery Row Artist Colony, set in a historic leather factory, features work by local artists.

If you’re lucky, your visit might line up with the Lawrenceville Arts Festival—over 100 artists, live music, and food vendors take over the streets.

Local Parks and Recreation

When you want a break from the ballpark, you’ve got some great outdoor options nearby. Tribble Mill Park, about 15 minutes from the stadium, covers 700 acres and has two lakes perfect for fishing or kayaking.

Alexander Park comes with:

• Wooded walking trails
• Playgrounds
• Disc golf
• Picnic pavilions

If you’re in the mood for something different, the Gwinnett Environmental & Heritage Center mixes natural history exhibits with hiking trails and hands-on displays about the area’s ecology.

Rhodes Jordan Park offers tennis, fishing, and a mile-long paved trail around a lake. In the summer, Collins Hill Aquatic Center is a hit with families—there’s a leisure pool and water slides that are just right for cooling off.

Unique Experiences and Travel Tips

A trip to Coolray Field isn’t just about the game. The area around the stadium is packed with historical tours, seasonal events, and attractions that make it a worthwhile stop—even if there’s no game on.

Baseball Pilgrimages

A lot of baseball fans put Coolray Field on their must-see list. The Magnolia Tree near the center-field concession stand has become a good luck stop since 2009—people love snapping photos there and giving it a quick touch before the game.

For the full experience, show up early for batting practice (about two hours before first pitch). You’re more likely to snag an autograph from a Stripers player near the home dugout.

The Wall of Fame honors former players who made it to the Atlanta Braves, and outside the main gate, you’ll spot commemorative bricks bought by devoted fans and local businesses.

Guided stadium tours run on select weekdays (usually Tuesday and Thursday mornings) for $8 per person. They take you behind the scenes to spots most fans never see.

Lawrenceville Ghost Tours

Downtown Lawrenceville, just a short drive from Coolray Field, is famous for its ghost tours that dig into the area’s haunted history. Most tours kick off at the historic courthouse square.

The Aurora Theatre puts on evening walking tours that mix local lore with ghost stories. Guides share tales about Civil War spirits and odd happenings in the town’s oldest spots.

If you’re up for something different, try the “Baseball Spirits” tour (seasonal), which includes stories about supernatural events at Coolray Field. Some staff say they’ve experienced strange things in the older parts of the stadium.

Tours last about 90 minutes and cover a mile or so of walking. Bring comfy shoes and a camera—people often catch orbs or weird lights in their photos.

Spring Events and Festivals

From April through June, the weather’s pretty much perfect for baseball and outdoor events near Coolray Field. The annual Gwinnett Beer Festival usually lands in April, bringing 150+ craft beers and food trucks to the stadium parking lot.

In May, the Lawrenceville Arts Festival fills the streets with local artists—makes for a fun stop before a weekend home game.

The stadium throws a few special theme nights each spring:

• Fireworks Fridays (after every Friday home game)
• Family Sundays (kids can run the bases)
• Thirsty Thursdays ($2 beers)

Check out the Stripers’ official schedule for the latest—theme nights often come with giveaways or live performances.

General Tips for Visitors

You’ll save a few bucks by buying tickets online instead of at the box office. Seats usually go for about $15 each, so it’s a pretty affordable day out.

Coolray Field now only takes card payments for food, drinks, and merch—no cash, so come prepared.

Parking’s still just $5, but get there early if you want a good spot. If you want to get out fast after the game, park closer to the lot exits, not right by the stadium.

To dodge traffic, try Old Peachtree Road NE via McGinnis Ferry over I-85—it can save you half an hour or more during rush hour.

Don’t forget the clear bag policy—one clear bag per person, roughly 12″ x 12″ max.

Stadium Operations and Impact

Coolray Field plays a big role in Gwinnett County’s finances and growth. The stadium stands as a major public investment and helps drive local development.

Stadium Debt and Financials

Gwinnett County built Coolray Field for about $64 million, which put a significant debt load on the county. They continue to pay off this financial obligation using several revenue streams.

The stadium brings in money from:

• Ticket sales (about $15 per seat)
• Parking ($5 per car)
• Concessions
• Merchandise
• Advertising

Even with all these sources, the stadium hasn’t always hit its original financial projections. Debt payments are still a big part of the county’s budget.

Non-baseball events—like concerts and community gatherings—help offset some of the operating costs throughout the year.

Community and Economic Influence

Since Coolray Field opened back in 2009, it’s really pushed the local economy forward for Lawrenceville and the surrounding areas. Being about 40 minutes north of Truist Park, the stadium feels close enough for a quick trip but far enough to stand out as its own spot for entertainment.

The ballpark kickstarted a bunch of development nearby, like:

• New restaurants and shops popping up
• Better roads and local infrastructure
• Property values climbing in the neighborhoods next door

If you’ve got kids, you’ll probably appreciate the family-friendly vibe here—honestly, it’s a big part of why people come back. Tickets and parking together cost around $20, which feels like a steal compared to what you’d pay for a Major League game.

On game days, local businesses get a real boost. More people come out, and you can actually see the difference in how busy shops and restaurants get. That energy spreads throughout the community, and you can tell the stadium’s made a mark.