Thinking about a baseball outing just outside Washington, DC? Prince George’s Stadium in Bowie, Maryland packs in family-friendly fun without those sky-high major league prices. As the home of the Chesapeake Baysox, the Double-A affiliate of the Baltimore Orioles, this 10,000-seat ballpark gives you an up-close baseball experience, plenty of parking, affordable snacks, and stuff to do for everyone.
When you show up, you get more than just a ballgame. The stadium puts on fireworks, runs all sorts of themed promos, and the team mascots have a knack for keeping the kids busy. There’s a kids’ play area tucked away so even the little ones have something to do when the game slows down. The ballpark’s design is pretty standard, but the sightlines are solid from just about every seat.
Maybe you’re a die-hard baseball fan watching for the next Orioles call-up, or maybe you just want a chill day outside—either way, Prince George’s Stadium is a great pick for a day trip. The Eastern League competition brings real-deal baseball, and the stadium’s family vibe makes everyone feel welcome.
About Prince George’s Stadium
Prince George’s Stadium stands out as a baseball venue that keeps things family-friendly. Fans get to enjoy America’s pastime, and there’s enough entertainment to keep visitors of all ages happy.
History and Significance
Back in the mid-1990s, Prince George’s Stadium opened as the home for the Bowie Baysox—now the Chesapeake Baysox. The team is the Double-A affiliate for the Baltimore Orioles in the Eastern League, so the stadium plays a big role in developing future big-league talent.
A lot of current and former MLB players have taken the field here while working their way up. Locals really cherish the stadium, and it hosts more than just baseball—think community events and special gatherings.
The stadium has kept its charm over the years. They’ve updated things here and there to keep fans happy, but it still feels like a classic ballpark.
Location and Directions
You’ll find Prince George’s Stadium in Bowie, Maryland, about 20 miles east of Washington, D.C., and 25 miles south of Baltimore. The spot is pretty central if you’re coming from anywhere in the DMV.
If you’re driving from the Capital Beltway (I-495), take Exit 19 for MD-214/Central Avenue toward Annapolis. Follow MD-214 east for roughly 6 miles, then hang a right onto Ballpark Road. You’ll spot the stadium on your left.
Public transit isn’t great out here, so most folks drive. Parking is easy—plenty of spots in lots around the stadium, and you won’t have to walk far to get in.
Stadium Capacity and Features
Prince George’s Stadium holds about 10,000 fans, so you’re never too far from the action. There’s the usual stadium seating, some premium box seats, and grassy berms if you’d rather sprawl out on a blanket.
Food options are surprisingly good. You’ll find more than just hot dogs—concession stands serve up local Maryland favorites too. A few bars and specialty vendors add to the mix.
If you’ve got kids with you, the stadium has:
- A playground area
- Interactive games
- Regular mascot visits
Between innings, the staff keeps things lively with promos and entertainment. Theme nights and post-game fireworks are pretty common. The stadium opens 10am to 10pm, with most games starting in the early evenings.
Bowie Baysox and Events
Baseball and special events bring Prince George’s Stadium to life all season long. The Baysox really focus on making it a family-friendly experience.
Bowie Baysox Home Games
The Bowie Baysox, Double-A affiliate of the Baltimore Orioles, play their home games here. The team usually hosts over 70 home games between April and September.
Tickets are easy on the wallet. General admission starts around $12-15, and you can snag premium box seats for $15-20.
With 10,000 seats, just about every spot gives you a good view. If you want the best, try for sections 111-113 behind home plate.
Fan tip: If you come early on weekends, you might catch players signing autographs near the dugouts about an hour before first pitch.
People love the cozy vibe here—you really feel close to the up-and-coming talent. Who knows, some of these guys could be MLB stars soon.
Entertainment and Fireworks Shows
There’s more than just baseball happening at Prince George’s Stadium. Fireworks light up the sky most Friday and Saturday nights in summer.
Theme nights keep things interesting, like:
- Superhero Night
- Star Wars Night
- Christmas in July
- Military Appreciation
Between innings, you’ll see silly contests and on-field games. Louie, the mascot, makes his rounds and keeps fans laughing.
Local groups—dance teams, martial artists, musicians—sometimes take the stage before the game.
On Sundays, kids get to run the bases after the game, which is always a hit.
If you’re with a group, check out the picnic pavilion for birthday parties or big outings.
Getting to the Stadium
Prince George’s Stadium sits near U.S. Route 301 and U.S. Route 50 in Bowie, Maryland. Getting there isn’t too complicated, but it helps to know your options ahead of time.
Public Transportation Options
Public transit isn’t the stadium’s strong suit, but you can make it work. Some regional buses connect Bowie to nearby metro stations.
Metrobus routes get you close, but you’ll probably need a rideshare for the last stretch. Sometimes shuttle services run on big game days.
If you’re coming from DC, try taking the Metro to New Carrollton or Largo Town Center, then catch a rideshare. Honestly, it’s usually faster than piecing together a bunch of bus rides.
Driving Routes and Traffic Tips
Most people just drive to Prince George’s Stadium. From the Capitol Beltway (I-495), take Exit 19A to US-50 East, then exit at MD-301 South via Exit 13A. You’ll see the stadium from the highway.
Weeknight games can mean heavy traffic, especially during rush hour. Try to arrive at least 60-90 minutes before first pitch to make things easier. After games, the main lot can take up to 45 minutes to clear out.
If you want to avoid the worst of it, look for overflow lots during packed games—they’re close by and usually have a quicker exit.
Some alternate routes:
- From Baltimore: I-97 South to MD-3 South, then US-301
- From Annapolis: US-50 West to MD-3/US-301 South
- From Southern Maryland: MD-4 North to US-301 North
Parking and Site Logistics
A little planning goes a long way for parking and getting around at Prince George’s Stadium. The setup can affect your game day experience, so it’s worth knowing the basics.
On-Site Parking Information
Parking at Prince George’s Stadium is free in the main lot, which wraps around the stadium and fits hundreds of cars.
Aim to get there 45 minutes before game time, especially for weekend games or special events. If you leave right after the game, you might wait up to 45 minutes to exit due to slow-moving traffic.
Handicap spaces sit close to the main entrance, but they fill up fast. If you need accessible parking, plan to arrive early.
RVs and buses park in the outer areas. For big groups, the stadium can set up motorcoach parking if you call ahead.
Site Map and Navigation
The main entrance sits on the first base side—look for the big Baysox logo. The stadium’s layout is pretty simple: a full circle concourse wraps the field, so you can easily wander to any section.
Key Areas:
- Main entrance: First base side
- Box office: Right by the entrance
- Concessions: All around the concourse
- Team store: Behind home plate
- Picnic spots: Left and right field corners
- Restrooms: Scattered along the concourse
The stadium’s tucked behind a shopping center, and the address is 6600 Kenilworth Avenue, Riverdale, MD 20737. Just follow the signs as you get close.
Visitor Experience
Prince George’s Stadium gives you a good mix of baseball and family fun. The Chesapeake Baysox keep things lively, and the stadium’s amenities make game day pretty smooth.
Wait Times and Entry Process
Getting into Prince George’s Stadium usually goes pretty quickly—much better than the big league parks. Most folks say it takes 5-15 minutes to get in for regular games, though it can stretch to 20-30 minutes for fireworks nights or big weekend crowds.
There are several gates, and the process is straightforward. Gates open 60 minutes before first pitch, but showing up 30 minutes early is smart if you want to skip the lines.
Season ticket holders get their own entry lanes. Reviews often mention that security is quick but thorough, so you don’t get stuck waiting too long.
Pro tip: Thursday and Sunday afternoon games are usually the least crowded, while Friday nights bring bigger crowds.
Parking is easy to find and only $5 per car, with handicapped spots close to the entrance.
Stadium Amenities and Accessibility
Prince George’s Stadium really shines with family-friendly features:
- Clean restrooms and usually short lines
- Lots of food choices—not just the basics
- Kids’ play area with games
- Comfortable seats with good views everywhere
- Free Wi-Fi throughout
The stadium is wheelchair accessible, and special seating offers great views. Elevators serve every level, and the staff gets high marks for being helpful.
If anyone in your group needs a quieter spot, sensory-friendly areas are available. Assisted listening devices are at the Guest Services booth.
Food prices won’t break the bank—most items run $4-10, which is a relief compared to major league stadiums.
Special Exhibits and Community Events
Prince George’s Stadium brings a lot more to the table than just baseball. All year long, the place buzzes with special exhibits and community events that make every visit feel a bit more connected to Prince George’s County.
Seasonal Exhibits
You’ll find rotating seasonal exhibits here, each one celebrating baseball and the area’s local culture in its own way. In spring and summer, displays pop up around the stadium, shining a spotlight on the Baysox team history and the players’ biggest moments. Fans get to check out memorabilia, old photos, and even some hands-on stuff that’s fun for everyone.
Come winter, the stadium takes on a festive vibe with holiday-themed exhibits. Every year, the baseball card show draws collectors from all over, and car shows roll into the big parking lots, showing off some seriously impressive vehicles.
If you’re curious about what happens behind the scenes, stadium tours run during many of these exhibits. Folks especially love the FREE stadium tours during Family Fun Fest—honestly, it’s tough to find a better way to get an inside look.
Community Involvement
Prince George’s Stadium has become a real gathering spot for the community, not just sports fans. The 10,000-seat venue regularly hosts charity events, fundraisers, and all sorts of local meetups.
The picnic pavilion turns into a hangout for group meetings and celebrations. Local kids get a chance to learn from pros at youth baseball clinics, which always seem to create some lasting memories.
Health and fitness events, like the Full Body Sculpt: Resistance Training sessions from PG Parks and Recreation, encourage folks to get active and check out the stadium at the same time.
School groups often come by for educational programs, diving into sports management, baseball history, and what it might take to build a career in athletics. Community nights shine a light on the different neighborhoods and cultures found throughout Prince George’s County, with special performances and food that celebrate the area’s diversity.
Nearby Attractions and Local Tips
If you’re headed to Prince George’s Stadium, you’ll stumble upon some cool spots nearby. Bowie’s historic museums give you a peek into the area’s past—definitely worth a look if you have a little time.
The Belair Mansion and Belair Stable Museums highlight Bowie’s equestrian roots. Both are just a quick drive from the ballpark, so you can squeeze in a visit before the game if you want.
Train lovers (and honestly, anyone who likes a quirky museum) should check out the Bowie Railroad Museum. It’s a fun stop, especially if your group has a mix of interests.
For anyone into old-school gadgets or broadcast history, the National Capital Radio and Television Museum has some seriously cool vintage equipment and stories about how broadcasting got started.
Local Tips:
- Show up early on fireworks nights—parking goes fast
- Tuesday games? Usually less crowded
- Day games mean sun, so don’t forget sunscreen (shade is a bit scarce)
- The carousel in the kids area is a hit with little ones
Thinking about staying more than a day? Prince George’s County has plenty of places to crash. The Courtyard by Marriott sits just a short drive from the stadium, which is super convenient.
If you can, try to catch one of the stadium’s themed nights. “Bark in the Park” lets you bring your pup, and “Superhero Night” brings out the caped crusaders—always a blast.
And hey, don’t just stick to stadium food. Jerry’s Seafood serves up the famous “Crab Bomb,” and locals swear by it. Might as well treat yourself before the first pitch.
Experience Baseball History in Person
Want to walk the same grounds where baseball legends made history? Find accommodations near iconic ballparks across America and create your own baseball pilgrimage.
Check availability at hotels near: Yankee Stadium, Fenway Park, Wrigley Field, Dodger Stadium
Plan your ballpark visit: Get MLB Ballpark Tickets and find accommodations nearby.
- Biographies
- Current Baseball Players
- Current Players by Team
- Players that Retired in the 2020s
- Players that Retired in the 2010s
- Players that Retired in the 2000s
- Players that Retired in the 1990s
- Players that Retired in the 1980s
- Players that Retired in the 1970s
- Players that Retired in the 1960s
- Players that Retired in the 1950s
- Players that Retired in the 1940s
- Players that Retired in the 1930s