NBT Bank Stadium Travel Guide

NBT Bank Stadium in Syracuse gives baseball fans a great experience without emptying their wallets. Home to the Syracuse Mets of the International League, the stadium seats 11,117 and has recently been renovated to blend comfort with affordability. Parking costs just $7, and food prices are surprisingly fair, so you can enjoy professional baseball and stadium perks without the sticker shock of major league parks.

If you’re planning a visit, check out the different seating options and group areas. The stadium has a partially covered area for group outings where groups can get catered meals and a full bar with a view of the game. If you want something a little fancier, the Hank Sauer Room delivers premium viewing and dining.

Fans often call NBT Bank Stadium an excellent venue for a night out, and people appreciate its clean facilities and family-friendly atmosphere. The place mixes minor league charm with professional amenities, making it worth a trip for casual fans and die-hards who want to see future MLB stars up close.

Overview of NBT Bank Stadium

NBT Bank Stadium is the home field for the Syracuse Mets, Triple-A affiliate of the New York Mets. This 11,117-seat ballpark keeps things affordable and family-friendly, with modern touches that don’t erase that minor league feel.

Location and Directions

NBT Bank Stadium sits north of downtown Syracuse, so it’s easy to get to. I-90 runs along its north side and I-81 is just west, so you’ve got straightforward routes from just about anywhere.

Most people drive to the stadium, and there’s plenty of parking for $7 a car. Even when big names like Jacob deGrom show up for rehab assignments, the parking price doesn’t spike.

If your hotel’s downtown, you’ll usually get to the stadium in 10-15 minutes, traffic depending. Many visitors prefer to show up early, especially on promo nights or weekends when crowds grow.

Stadium Features

The newly renovated NBT Bank Stadium packs in amenities to make your night at the ballpark better. The Hank Sauer Room is a full-service spot for premium food, drinks, and a great view.

Groups can book the partially covered outing area for catered meals and a full bar, making it a solid pick for company outings or big family gatherings.

Food options range from the usual ballpark snacks to some local favorites. Prices stay super reasonable, so you won’t leave feeling ripped off like at some bigger parks.

Seating works for all preferences, whether you want field-level boxes or upper deck seats with a panoramic view.

History and Significance

NBT Bank Stadium opened in 1997, taking over for the old MacArthur Stadium, which had hosted Syracuse baseball since 1934. The ballpark’s gotten some major upgrades, but it still hangs onto that classic baseball vibe.

Over the years, different MLB teams have used the stadium for their Triple-A clubs. Now, it’s home to the Syracuse Mets of the International League, the New York Mets’ top farm team.

Future MLB stars have played here on their way up, so if you’re a baseball fan, you might catch tomorrow’s big names before they make it.

The stadium’s also a big deal for the Syracuse community and Onondaga County, hosting all sorts of events beyond just baseball.

Attending a Syracuse Mets Game

NBT Bank Stadium makes it easy to have a fun, affordable night out for fans of all ages. Syracuse Mets games mix quality Triple-A baseball with family-friendly entertainment and special events all season long.

Ticket Options and Pricing

Syracuse Mets tickets won’t break the bank. General admission seats usually start at $13-15, while reserved seats cost $15-20, depending on where you sit. If you want to sit right behind home plate, expect to pay $20-25.

You’ve got a few ways to buy tickets:

• Online at the Syracuse Mets website
• At the stadium box office
• By phone
• Day of game (if there are any left)

Some seating picks to consider:

• Field-level seats (Sections 107-113): You’re right on top of the action.
• Salt City Deck: Open to all fans unless there’s a private event.
• Family sections: Alcohol-free, great for kids.

Season tickets and multi-game packs save frequent visitors up to 30% off regular prices.

Game Day Promotions

The Syracuse Mets run fun promotions all season. Dollar Thursdays are a hit, with $1 hot dogs, $1 sodas, and other cheap eats.

Weekly promos include:

• Taco Tuesdays: Cheap tacos and Mexican food
• Wine Wednesdays: Deals on wine and tastings
• Family Sundays: Kids eat free and can run the bases after the game

Special themed nights pop up, like:

• Star Wars Night
• Superhero Day
• ’90s Night
• Military Appreciation games

Giveaways are common—jerseys, bobbleheads, hats, and other swag. If you want one, get there early; they usually only give out 1,000-2,000.

Fireworks Shows

Fireworks nights are a huge draw at NBT Bank Stadium. The Mets usually light up the sky every Friday and Saturday home game, weather permitting.

Each show runs about 15 minutes and starts right after the game ends. The fireworks are set to music, and you can see them from anywhere in the stadium.

Biggest fireworks nights:

• Memorial Day weekend
• Independence Day (the big one)
• Labor Day weekend

For the best view, grab seats along the first base line or outfield. No extra charge—it’s included with your ticket.

A lot of fans make a full night of it, showing up early for pre-game stuff and staying for the fireworks after the last out.

Scheduled Opponents

The Syracuse Mets take on a bunch of International League rivals, but the Rochester Red Wings are their main rival.

Other teams you’ll see:

• Rochester Red Wings (Washington Nationals affiliate)
• Buffalo Bisons (Toronto Blue Jays affiliate)
• Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders (New York Yankees affiliate)
• Lehigh Valley IronPigs (Philadelphia Phillies affiliate)

Games usually follow a six-game series, Tuesday through Sunday, with Mondays off. If you’re in town for a few days, you can catch multiple games against the same team.

Red Wings and RailRiders games draw bigger crowds thanks to the rivalries. The place gets especially lively when future MLB stars are on the field, or when top prospects and rehabbing big leaguers show up.

Parking and Transportation

Getting to NBT Bank Stadium is pretty straightforward, and you’ve got a few options. The stadium has convenient parking and other ways to get there, depending on your needs.

Parking Availability and Fees

You’ll find plenty of parking in paved lots around the stadium. The main lot charges $7 per car for games, and they take cards only—no cash.

Parking is close to the entrance, so you don’t have to hike far. That’s a relief if you’ve got kids or if the weather’s bad.

Lots open 90 minutes before first pitch. For the best spots, try to get there at least an hour early for big games or promo nights.

The stadium’s location means you can hop off the New York State Thruway or Route 81 and be parked in minutes, which is handy if you’re coming in from out of town.

Public Transit and Rideshare

Centro buses offer public transit to NBT Bank Stadium from different parts of Syracuse. Several lines stop nearby, and the walk from the bus stop isn’t bad.

The William F. Walsh Regional Transportation Center sits on the same campus as the stadium, so you can take buses or trains there too.

Uber and Lyft work all over Syracuse and can drop you right at the entrance. After the game, there’s a rideshare pickup zone near the main gate, which makes leaving pretty easy.

Taxis are around but not as common as rideshares. If you’re staying downtown, the hotel front desk can usually help you get a ride to the stadium.

Accessibility Options

NBT Bank Stadium has accessible parking spots in the main lot, right by the entrance. You’ll need a valid disability placard or plates to use them.

The stadium meets ADA standards throughout. Wheelchair ramps and elevators get you to every level.

If you have mobility issues, you might see golf cart shuttles running between the lots and entrance before and after busy games.

The stadium’s accessible ticket policy makes sure guests with disabilities can attend comfortably. Companion seats sit right next to wheelchair spaces throughout the seating area.

If you need extra help, it’s smart to call the stadium office before game day so they can set things up for you.

Stadium Food and Beverage Options

NBT Bank Stadium serves up plenty of food and drink choices for Syracuse Mets games. You’ll find the classic ballpark favorites and some local flavors unique to central New York.

Concessions Highlights

Multiple concession stands line the concourse, selling food and drinks. Most offer standard ballpark eats, but you’ll spot a few specialty items too.

For snacks, you can grab:

• Nachos
• Peanuts
• Candy
• David’s Gluten-Free Brownies

Drink options include:

• Soft drinks
• Water
• Beer
• 1911 Hard Cider
• White Claw Hard Seltzers

NBT Bank Stadium has a specific food and beverage policy. You can bring one unopened water bottle per person, but no other outside food or drinks are allowed.

Popular Eats: Hot Dogs and More

Hot dogs still rule as the go-to ballpark food at NBT Bank Stadium. Fans pile on the usual toppings—ketchup, mustard, relish, you name it.

But there’s more than just franks. The stadium also serves up:

• Burgers: Classic hamburgers and cheeseburgers
• Turkey burger with fries ($9)
• Flying Dutchman: Grilled chicken sandwich with fries ($9)
• Chicken tenders: Served with a choice of dipping sauces

Most main dishes run between $6 and $10, which feels pretty fair compared to what you’ll pay at other minor league stadiums.

Local Favorites and Unique Dishes

NBT Bank Stadium likes to show off some central New York flavor, too.

Locals love:

• Salt potatoes: These little potatoes get boiled in super salty water and come dripping with melted butter. If you haven’t tried them, you’re missing out.
• Kielbasa and sausage options: Plenty of sausage choices, a nod to Syracuse’s Polish roots

Vegetarians don’t have a ton of options, but you’ll find:

• Cheese pizza slices
• Some classic snacks

The beer lineup covers the basics—Budweiser, Bud Light—but they also rotate in some local craft brews throughout the season. On a sweltering day, hard seltzers and ciders hit the spot.

Nearby Attractions and Activities

There’s a lot more to do around NBT Bank Stadium than just watch baseball. Syracuse is packed with shopping, outdoor recreation, and family-friendly activities, all just a short drive away.

Visiting Destiny USA

If you’re in town, Destiny USA is tough to skip. It’s New York’s biggest shopping and entertainment spot, and it’s only about ten minutes from the stadium. With over 250 stores, you’ll find everything from bargain shops to high-end brands.

But Destiny USA isn’t just about shopping. You’ll find:

• WonderWorks – An indoor amusement park with a ton of hands-on exhibits
• RPM Raceway – Indoor go-karts on a quarter-mile track
• Dave & Buster’s – Games, food, and a good pre-game hangout
• Pole Position Raceway – More electric go-kart action

There are dozens of places to eat, whether you want a quick snack or a sit-down meal. Grab a burger at The Cheesecake Factory or go for something different at Texas de Brazil.

Things to Do Around the Stadium

The area near NBT Bank Stadium has some cool spots to check out. Onondaga Lake Park is just five minutes away and offers seven miles of shoreline with paved trails for walking or biking—great for stretching your legs before the game.

Families usually love the Rosamond Gifford Zoo, home to over 700 animals on 43 acres. It’s only a 15-minute drive from the stadium.

History fans should swing by the Erie Canal Museum downtown. It’s in the last remaining weighlock building in America and has some pretty interesting exhibits about the canal.

Other nearby spots:

• Salt Museum – Dive into Syracuse’s salty past
• Museum of Science & Technology – Interactive science fun
• Everson Museum of Art – Modern art in a building designed by I.M. Pei

If you’re visiting in the summer, see if your trip lines up with an event at the New York State Fairgrounds, which are just minutes away.

Tips for a Great Visit

NBT Bank Stadium delivers fun baseball at prices that won’t break the bank. A little planning goes a long way for a smooth trip.

What to Bring to the Game

You’ll want to bring:

• Tickets (digital or printed—either works)
• Cash and cards (almost everyone takes both)
• Sunscreen (day games can get brutal)
• Hat or visor
• Light jacket or sweater (it cools off at night)
• Stadium cushion (the seats aren’t exactly plush)

If you’re hoping to snag a foul ball, bring your glove. The patios and sky suites are prime foul ball territory.

Clear bags help you get through security faster. Bring an empty water bottle to fill at the fountains. And don’t forget your phone or camera for photos and checking stats.

Binoculars can help if you’re up high. Comfortable shoes are a must—you’ll probably end up exploring a bit.

Length of Visit Recommendations

Try to get there at least an hour before the first pitch. Gates open one hour before game time, so you’ll have time to look around and find your seats.

Most minor league games last about 2.5 to 3 hours. If you want to explore before the game, plan for a total of 3.5 to 4 hours.

First-timers might want to give themselves an extra half hour to wander the stadium. The Team Store is worth a look if you want Mets gear.

Weeknight games are usually less crowded and have shorter lines. Weekends and promo nights get busy, so expect bigger crowds.

Parking lots open two hours before the game. Parking costs $7, and getting there early means a better spot.

Stadium Guidelines and Policies

A few rules to know:

• No outside food or drinks (except sealed water bottles)
• No smoking inside (there are designated areas)
• No big bags or backpacks
• No pro cameras with detachable lenses

You can leave and come back if you get your hand stamped. Just show your ticket and ask for a stamp on your way out.

All seating areas work for fans with mobility needs, and there’s wheelchair seating throughout the stadium.

NBT Bank Stadium keeps things family-friendly and doesn’t tolerate disruptive behavior. If you need help, look for staff in yellow shirts.

Umbrellas are allowed, but don’t open them in the seats during the game. Always check the forecast before you go.

Family-Friendly Advice

Kids under 2 get in free, but they’ll need to sit on a parent’s lap. Sunday games usually feel extra family-friendly, with pre-game autograph sessions that kids seem to love.

If you’re bringing the whole crew, aim for seats behind home plate—sections 200 through 204. You’ll get a solid view and some shade, which is a lifesaver on hot days. Honestly, sitting a few rows back makes it way easier to dash to the restrooms or grab snacks without missing much.

Don’t forget hearing protection for little ones. The crowd can get loud out of nowhere, and no one wants a startled toddler meltdown. If things get overwhelming, there’s a “quiet area” in the stadium where you can take a breather.

Swing by the NBT Bank Stadium mascot area near section 118—perfect spot for goofy photos. And if your kids are into it, sign them up for the free “Mets Kids Club.” They’ll get some neat perks and activities.

If you’re hoping for a giveaway, get there early. Those promo items go fast—usually just the first 1,000 or 2,000 fans score one. It’s worth checking the team website to see what’s coming up before you head out.