Yankee Stadium

Home of the New York Yankees

The Bronx Bombers. The Evil Empire. The New York Yankees. Whatever you want to call them, the pinstripes are one of the most, if not the most, recognizable and beloved (or hated) teams in baseball. With their 27 banners hanging high, it’s no surprise that this franchise’s stadium is gorgeous.

While the views and the history are an experience in itself, the fans add a whole other level. They are the definition of die-hard fans. I was there for a Mariners game (a team who has no real known rivalry with the Yankees) and was expecting a bit of heckling…and heckled I was. I can’t imagine what it would have been like had I been there for a Red Sox game. I had known going in how passionate their fans are, so I also knew that it was all in good fun. If you are also not a Yankees fan, just be prepared for a little razzing.

*Note: I’m sure this happens…no I know this happens at all stadiums. However, this is the only time I’ve experienced it on a large, reoccurring scale, and I’ve also been to a Mariners game at Fenway.

Here is what else you need to know, before visiting Yankee Stadium.

Best place to take a selfie–

It is very apparent that the stadium is open and spacious. Meaning, there really isn’t going to be a bad place to sit, or to take a picture. However, I found that my favorite photo was taken between 323-325, just behind home plate. You get a lovely view of the field and the Bronx.

If you’re a big Yankees fan, I would recommend Monument Park (see You Should Know).

Food at the Stadium-

Since first visiting the stadium, they have updated their food options. A few unique things I have my eye on now are the gourmet shakes and (deep fried) avocado bites.

Getting to the Field-

There are a few different ways to get to the stadium. With a plethora of parking near the stadium, you can obviously drive. Or, if you are coming from the city, you can take “the No. 4 train (East Side) and the B and D trains (West Side) to 161st Street/Yankee Stadium.”

But, depending on where you are coming from, the Yankee Train might be a great option. For example, we came from Connecticut for the day. We hopped on the Yankee Train in New Haven and were dropped off right in front of the stadium. They have a few different schedules based on game time and day of the week, so make sure to double check the schedules from the following places;  

New Haven, CT

Harlem, NY

Hudson, NY

First Timers-

For your first time certificate, head to section 127b.

Best Place to Sit-

Like I mentioned above, I don’t think there is a bad place to sit. I have yet to experience a stadium that is that open and has that few of view obstructions. Now, I can’t speak from experience, but from research I’ve found that if you want to feel like Jay-Z (aka nearer to the dugout), you might have to pay Jay-Z money.

However, I can tell you that the bleachers are an inexpensive alternative, which still offers a gorgeous view of the field. If you are visiting with a family, I would avoid this area. It tended to get a bit more rowdy.

For alcohol-free seating, check out sections 407A and 433 in the Grandstand Level.

Best Place to Find the Mascot- The Yankees are one of three MLB teams who don’t have a mascot. From 1979-1981, the team did have a large pin striped mascot named Dandy, who had a terrifying mustache. Dandy earned his name from the popular song Yankee Doodle Dandy. To be honest though, I am glad Dandy permanently stepped away from the plate.

You Should Know– Commemorated with monuments, retired numbers, and plaques, Monument Park is your chance to walk down see a bit of the Yankee’s history. The designated area is located just below the Mohegan Sun Sports Bar. According to the team’s website, the park “opens with the gates and remains accessible for guests’ enjoyment until 45 minutes prior to the scheduled start time of the Yankees game.”

What’s your favorite part of Yankee Stadium? Let me know!