T- MobilE Park
There is perhaps not a more wholesome and American activity than going to the ballpark. Thankfully for us Washingtonians our local team, the Seattle Mariners, play in arguably the best ballpark in Baseball. T-Mobile Park, can be found in the Sodo district of Seattle and showcases the city's skyline with sunset views over the Puget Sound.
I grew up going to games every season and watching my favorite players like Ichiro and Felix Hernandez take on the visiting team. One of the best parts about an MLB game is that there is something for everyone, even those who don’t know or care about baseball. The entire experience of going to a game is made to be a fun laid back way to enjoy time with your friends and family.
An Afternoon or morning at a baseball game is a great way to spend a few hours. Find your seat and enjoy the game or walk around the massive concourse to find your favorite ballpark snack and drink. There are plenty of ways to enjoy your time at a game, but here I’ll be sharing with you my favorite way to watch the M’s score another W.
Go on a weekday
I know what you're thinking, why would I go on a weekday when I can go on the weekend when I’m off work? Weekend games certainly have their place, they allow for more time to enjoy restaurants and attractions in Sodo but unless you have the patience to wait in long lines for everything, it’s not the move. Games between Monday and Thursday tend to have far less attendees and are even sometimes cheaper. To me, nothing beats a Tuesday game. It nestled early in the week to give you something to look forward to on Sunday without adding more to your Monday plate.
2. Pick the right seat
The right seat is different for everyone. The experience you want to have should determine where you sit. Would you rather be in the 100 section so you can see the player’s faces or do you not mind the view from higher up? Do you want to test your catching skills and sit by the foul line or do you mostly want to walk around and not stay in one place long? Ask yourself what kind of experience you are trying to have and then find the set that will best help you achieve that. I have sat all over the ballpark and I truly think there isn’t a bad seat at the park, only some better than others. In terms of what I would recommend, I believe the best overall experience is sitting in the Terrace Club. These 200 level seats come with a lot more than a cushioned chair. Tickets in this section allow you access to a private concourse that hosts many of the same food choices found in the main concourse, plus plenty of open seating to eat your meals along with a massive open bar. The best part is most of these Terrace Club tickets are less than $50.
3. Get there early
Weekday afternoon games start at 6:50 and doors open 90 minutes prior. Those 90 minutes are the perfect time to walk around and get a feel for the crowd and events. Many of the top eats at T-Mobile Park are hard to get and can even sell out before you get your turn. I suggest getting there an hour early and heading straight to your top food choice as soon as you get there. Get your food, get a beer and head towards The Pen to watch the players warm up. There are standing tables and railings around the bullpen to help you eat your food with your hands free. Most of the game you’ll be in your seat so I’d encourage you to explore the ballpark in this time before the game.
4. Get a drink and a snack
Look, I’ll be the first to say that almost all of the food at sporting events is subpar. Unfortunately, T-Mobile’s food options are no different. It's not so much that the ingredients are bad or gross, it's just that logistically to prepare and serve thousands of people, food has no choice but to be prepared ahead of time and left under warmers until ordered. This obviously does not do the food any favors. With that said there are some food items that stand out.
First, the best thing I’ve had at T-Mobile Park, Moto Pizza. This sourdough deep dish pizza will have you rethinking what pizza should be. Moto Pizza can also be found at their brick and mortar store in Seattle and Edmonds. The quality of ingredients shine through here and that chewy cheesy sourdough crust is unbeatable. I suggest making this your top food priority. Second, Cantina Nachos. This is a good option because they taste really good, they’re easy to eat, and you can enjoy it for an extended amount of time. There are a variety of combinations that appeal to all crowds. Third, a shout out to my go to ballpark eat, Garlic Fries with Chicken Strips. This meal handles the layover between creation and consumption better than most and if you love garlic as much as I do, the piles of garlic on these fries will satisfy your stinkiest cravings.
You may have noticed that the classic hot dog is missing from my list. Unless you are trying to fulfill a childhood fantasy of eating a hot dog at a baseball game, I would pass. They are disappointing and overpriced. Insted, before heading into the park, walk down Occidental Ave and get a Seattle Dog from one of the stands. They are way cheaper and incredible. My last recommendation here is to get a beer. This is one trope that lives up to the hype. Trust me, a beer will never taste better than at a baseball game. But if beer isn’t your thing, the Vodka Lemonade/Margarita stands serve a stiff drink.
There you go, 4 steps to make the most of your trip to support the M’s. Plan out your trip with these steps in mind. Go on a day of the week that works with your schedule and won’t feel overwhelming. Pick the seats that will cater towards the kind of experience that you want. Get to the ballpark with plenty of time to explore. There is so much to see, both inside and out. While exploring, try some food, find what snacks you like and enjoy a beer. Most importantly, lean into the chill vibe, enjoy the company of those around you and watch the Mariner's play while the sun sets behind Seattle's beautiful skyline.
