AutoZone Park Travel Guide

AutoZone Park sits right in the heart of downtown Memphis, just a few blocks from the city’s most iconic attractions. Whether you’re a die-hard baseball fan or just looking for a fun family outing, there’s a lot to love about this stadium. Many folks even say it’s one of the finest ballparks in minor league baseball. When you visit AutoZone Park, you’ll notice the excellent sightlines from every seat, tons of food options, and that massive 60′ x 60′ high-def video board—it really does make the game pop.

The Memphis Redbirds, Triple-A affiliate of the St. Louis Cardinals, play their home games here. You’ll catch future MLB stars as they wrap up their minor league journey. Since the park sits downtown, you can easily turn a game into a full day out in Memphis.

But AutoZone Park isn’t just about baseball—it’s a full-on entertainment spot. You’ll get great views from seats all around the field and plenty of food and drink choices to keep you happy during the game. The stadium’s handy “A to Z” guide answers all those little questions you might have, which takes the stress out of planning your visit.

Overview of AutoZone Park

AutoZone Park stands out as one of minor league baseball’s top venues, mixing modern amenities with classic ballpark charm right in downtown Memphis. The Redbirds play here, and the stadium keeps things intimate for fans and visitors.

History and Construction

AutoZone Park opened its gates in 2000, part of a push to bring new life to downtown Memphis. The stadium cost $80.5 million to build, which made it one of the priciest minor league parks at the time. HOK Sport (now Populous) designed it—the same folks behind a bunch of legendary ballparks. They used brick and steel to help the place blend in with historic buildings nearby.

The Redbirds moved here from Tim McCarver Stadium, and people quickly noticed the stellar design. Planners picked the downtown spot on purpose, hoping to boost the local economy and draw more visitors. AutoZone, the Memphis-based auto parts giant, picked up naming rights—so the stadium has a real hometown connection.

In 2019, the park got a big facelift. Crews modernized the facilities but managed to keep that classic vibe and cozy feel.

Stadium Features and Facilities

AutoZone Park gives you awesome sightlines from every seat, so you never feel like you’re missing out. The “Bluff” areas in left and right field let you sprawl out on the grass for a more laid-back game experience.

The showstopper? That giant 60′ x 60′ high-def video board—it’s one of the biggest in the minors. Food here isn’t just your standard hot dogs and nachos. You’ll find a variety of choices, many inspired by Memphis’s own food scene.

The concourse wraps all the way around the field, so you can stroll and never lose sight of the action. If you want to splurge, check out the luxury suites or club level seats for extra perks and comfort. Families will appreciate the kids’ zone, where younger fans can burn off some energy and stay entertained.

Notable Events and Milestones

Besides hosting the Redbirds, AutoZone Park has seen some big moments. The stadium has welcomed the Triple-A Championship Game and several All-Star events. Major league teams have even played exhibitions here, giving fans a chance to see big-league talent up close.

The stadium isn’t just for baseball, either. It’s hosted concerts—Miranda Lambert, for example—and even pro soccer matches as home to Memphis 901 FC of the United Soccer League.

The ballpark racks up awards year after year, often landing on lists of the best minor league facilities in the country. With Beale Street and the Cotton Row Historic District just a stone’s throw away, it’s a great starting point for exploring downtown Memphis before or after the game.

Teams and Sporting Events

AutoZone Park isn’t just about one sport—it’s home to two pro teams, so you’ll find something to watch almost any time of year. You can catch Triple-A baseball or check out the growing soccer scene in Memphis.

Memphis Redbirds Baseball

The Memphis Redbirds serve as the Triple-A affiliate of the St. Louis Cardinals. They play in the Pacific Coast League, facing off against top minor league talent.

Baseball season usually runs from April through September, so there’s a good stretch of time to catch a game. Plenty of future big-leaguers sharpen their skills here before getting the call up.

The park comes alive during Redbirds games, especially with special promos like:

• Throwback Thursday: Cheaper concessions
• Fireworks Fridays: Fireworks after the game
• Family Sundays: Kid activities and player autographs

That huge high-def video board (60′ x 60′) means you won’t miss a thing.

Memphis 901 FC Soccer

Once baseball wraps up, Memphis 901 FC takes over as the city’s pro soccer club. They compete in the USL Championship, which is just below Major League Soccer.

Soccer season goes from March through October, and home games bring in passionate crowds. The team started in 2018 and already has a loyal following.

Match days are a blast, with:

• Bluff City Mafia: The supporters’ group leading the noise and chants
• Local food vendors: Dishing up Memphis favorites
• Family-friendly vibes: Good for all ages

Between seasons, the stadium switches from baseball to soccer mode, and you’re never far from the action no matter where you sit.

Planning Your Visit

If you’re heading to AutoZone Park, it helps to know the best ways to get there, where to park, and how to get around. A little planning goes a long way toward a smooth game day experience.

Getting to AutoZone Park

You’ll find AutoZone Park downtown at Union Avenue and B.B. King Boulevard. It’s walking distance from Beale Street and the Cotton Row Historic District, so you can easily mix in other Memphis sights.

If you’re driving in, take I-40 to exit 1A (Second Street) from the east, or exit 1B (Front Street) from the west. Coming from I-55, use exit 12A (Riverside Drive) and follow the signs downtown.

Staying at a downtown hotel like The Peabody or Hu Hotel? You’re probably just a 5-10 minute stroll away. Folks coming from Germantown or East Memphis should expect a 20-30 minute drive.

Parking and Transportation Options

You’ll find a few parking choices near the stadium. The Toyota Center Garage on Third Street is a popular pick, offering covered parking for about $10-15 on game days. Street parking is possible, but it fills up fast for evening games.

Public transit works too. The Main Street Trolley stops a couple of blocks from the stadium, and a day pass costs around $3.50. It’s a solid option if you plan to explore downtown before or after the game.

If you’d rather not drive, rideshares like Uber and Lyft are easy. The drop-off and pick-up spot sits right on Union Avenue near the main entrance.

Got a big group? The Memphis Hop shuttle connects major downtown hotels to the stadium on game days.

Tickets and Seating Information

Picking the right tickets and knowing your seating options can make your time at AutoZone Park way better. The stadium offers several ways to buy tickets and a variety of seating areas to fit your style and budget.

Where to Buy Tickets

You can buy Memphis Redbirds tickets for AutoZone Park in a few different ways. The box office sells tickets in person. Kids under two don’t need a ticket but will need to sit on a grown-up’s lap.

For online purchases, the team’s official website is your best bet. SeatGeek is another good option, with interactive seat maps to help you pick the perfect spot.

It’s smart to plan ahead—big games, weekends, and promo nights can sell out. Still, day-of-game tickets are usually available for most regular season games.

Gates open an hour before first pitch most days, and on Fridays they open at 5 p.m.. Getting there early means you can wander the park and find your seat without feeling rushed.

Seating Chart and Accessibility

AutoZone Park offers a range of seating options for every taste and budget. Here’s a quick breakdown:

• Dugout Boxes – Right up close to the field
• Club Level Seating – Covered seats with extra amenities
• Outfield Bluff – Grass seating, great for families
• Berm Seating – Laid-back lawn spots

If you’re heading to a summer day game, keep in mind that Memphis can get hot. Shaded or club level seats might be more comfortable.

Some specialty seating works on a first-come, first-served basis, even if you’ve bought tickets in advance. For accessibility, the stadium provides wheelchair seating and companion spots throughout.

Before you go, it’s a good idea to check the current bag policy so you don’t get held up at the gate. Online seating chart tools make it easy to see what your view will look like before you lock in your seats.

Accommodations Near AutoZone Park

Staying near AutoZone Park puts you in the middle of downtown Memphis, steps away from the ballpark and lots of other attractions. You’ll find several good hotels within walking distance, so you can make the most of your visit.

Top Hotel Choices

The Peabody Memphis brings historic luxury just a short walk from AutoZone Park. People flock here for its daily duck march through the lobby—honestly, it’s a bit quirky but totally charming. You’ll get upscale amenities wrapped in Southern hospitality.

Hilton Garden Inn Memphis Downtown Beale Street pretty much sits right next to the ballpark. If you want to be close to both the game and Beale Street, you really can’t beat the location.

The Canopy By Hilton Memphis Downtown gives you a modern boutique vibe with a dash of local flair. Walk to the park or hit up downtown restaurants—either way, you’re set.

Hotel Napoleon Memphis and The Hu Hotel both have boutique style and plenty of character, plus you’ll get easy access to the stadium.

Alternative Lodging Options

If hotels aren’t your thing, you might want to check out The Moose or The Stallion. These spots feel different from the usual chains—maybe more personality, maybe more space.

Travelers on a budget have some solid picks, too. La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Memphis Downtown keeps things affordable but still puts you close to the action.

For longer visits, apartment rentals downtown give you space to stretch out and a kitchen to whip up a quick meal. That’s a big plus if you’re planning to catch more than one game.

Most hotels near AutoZone Park toss in game-day perks during baseball season. When you book, go ahead and ask about special packages—sometimes you’ll get tickets, shuttle rides, or food vouchers tossed in.

Dining and Entertainment

AutoZone Park packs in plenty of food and drink options for game days. Whether you’re craving ballpark classics or something with a Memphis spin, you’ll find something to munch on.

On-Site Food and Beverage

AutoZone Park lines up a bunch of food and drink choices around the stadium. You’ll spot the usual suspects: hot dogs, nachos, pretzels—classic ballpark stuff.

For something different, American Dog serves up creative hot dog twists if you’re feeling adventurous. Beer fans can pick from local craft brews or stick to the old standbys.

The Club Level offers premium food options and usually shorter lines—if you’ve got access, it’s a nice perk. Kids (and, let’s be honest, adults too) can grab ice cream, cotton candy, and other treats at family-friendly spots.

Honestly? Show up hungry. Prices are about what you’d expect for a minor league park, and the food quality is usually pretty solid.

Nearby Restaurants and Bars

One of the best things about AutoZone Park is its downtown spot, just steps from Beale Street. You’ve got tons of choices for food and drinks before or after the game.

Beale Street is packed with Memphis BBQ joints, blues bars, and laid-back places to eat—just a quick five-minute walk from the stadium. Try these if you’re hungry:

• Blues City Cafe (ribs, obviously)
• Dyer’s Burgers (deep-fried burgers, if you dare)
• Flight Restaurant (for something a little fancier)

The DoubleTree Hotel sits right across from the ballpark and has its own restaurant if you want to keep things simple.

If you’re in a rush, a handful of casual spots are just a couple blocks from the entrance. They fill up fast on game days, so arriving early or grabbing a reservation isn’t a bad idea.

Exploring Memphis Around AutoZone Park

AutoZone Park sits smack in the middle of downtown Memphis, so it’s a great jumping-off point for exploring the city. You can walk to a bunch of Memphis’s most iconic spots.

Local Attractions

Beale Street is a quick stroll from AutoZone Park. The district buzzes with live blues and Southern food every night.

Right next to the ballpark, the Cotton Row Historic District shows off Memphis’s cotton-trading past with beautiful old buildings. You’ll find some cool shops and cafes tucked inside.

Music fans should check out the Memphis Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum for a deep dive into the city’s music history. The Gibson Guitar Factory lets you watch folks build guitars by hand—honestly, it’s pretty fascinating.

The Mississippi River waterfront is close by, too. You can hop on a riverboat cruise for killer skyline views. Riverfront parks make great spots for a walk or a picnic.

Annual Events and Festivals

Every May, Memphis throws a month-long party with the Memphis in May International Festival. The Beale Street Music Festival draws big-name acts from every genre—Miranda Lambert even played here one year.

Barbecue fans flock to the World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest, where teams compete and everyone eats way too much. Live music and plenty of food keep things lively near the ballpark.

The Memphis Italian Festival brings together food contests, music, and family fun in Marquette Park. It’s a colorful, tasty celebration of the city’s Italian roots.

During baseball season, the Memphis Redbirds often team up with local festivals for special theme nights. It’s a cool way to catch a game and soak up some Memphis culture at the same time.

Travel Tips and Visitor Information

If you’re planning a trip to AutoZone Park, it helps to know a few things about accessibility and timing. A little prep goes a long way for a smooth baseball outing in Memphis.

Safety and Accessibility

AutoZone Park makes accessibility a priority for all guests. Wheelchair seating and companion spots are spread throughout the stadium, and you’ll get good views from anywhere.

You’ll find accessible parking in nearby lots, plus accessible restrooms on every level and elevators to get you around.

Security checks bags at the gate, and there’s a clear bag policy. Leave umbrellas with sharp tips, outside food, and big bags at home.

Families can use changing stations in the restrooms, and there’s a first aid station if you need quick medical help.

Best Times to Visit

Memphis baseball usually kicks off in April and wraps up in September. If you’re after a chill vibe, weeknight games tend to draw smaller crowds—honestly, it’s a nice way to catch a game without the hustle.

On the flip side, if you want that electric energy, go for a weekend game, especially on Friday or Saturday night. The place really comes alive then, though you’ll definitely notice more people. Those nights often come with special promotions and fireworks, which just add to the fun.

April and May usually feel great weather-wise, but July and August? Yeah, it gets pretty hot and humid. Evening games during those months help you dodge the worst of the heat.

If seeing the massive 60′ x 60′ high-definition video board in all its glory is on your list, night games really show it off. Honestly, it’s worth checking the forecast too—clear skies just make the whole outdoor experience better.