01 Mar WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT YANKEES OPENING DAY 2013

ONE MONTH REMAINING!

Well, it’s been a rough offseason for the New York Yankees. Injuries plagued the team throughout training, and team captain and veteran Yankee’s Opening But we’re feeling confident about the upcoming season. Jeter will be back, and much of the rest of the team has recovered from their offseason injuries, too. Today marks the fact that there’s just one month left until opening day. We’re not going to reveal whether we go Yankees or Mets, but we’re just pretty darn happy that it’s almost opening day. We’ve compiled some Yankees stadium best practices for out-of-towners to get you pumped up for the April 1 game, or any games you attend thereafter:

1. ARRIVE EARLY

While the gates will typically open one and a half hours before the scheduled game start time, on opening day and other special occasions, you can receive security clearance up to two hours in advance. Many local baseball fanatics make a point of arriving no less than one hour in advance because lines can be quite long right before the first pitch.

2. FOLLOW THE RULES

Glass bottles, plastic containers, cans, and coolers are not permitted at the stadium, and no personal bags larger than a woman’s purse or child’s backpack can be brought inside. If you enter the security line with any items against the rules, you’re required to return them to your vehicle or another safe-keeping location before re-entering the security line. You may be eligible for exemptions due to medical issues, so it’s wise to call customer service ahead of time for further clarification if necessary.

3. TAILGATING IS PERMITTED

While New York may not have the same tailgating culture as many Southern states, tailgating near the stadium is allowed, provided there are no barbecues or alcohol containers. For a more authentic experience, we recommend taking advantage of a New York City limo tour or hiring car service for a pub crawl at many of the exceptional venues throughout the Bronx.

4. THE DINING IS AWESOME

Stadium fare has undoubtedly improved over the past several decades, and there’s no shortage of awesome options at Yankees Stadium. You can still have the traditional baseball experience that includes Coney Island-style hot dogs, cotton candy, and cracker jacks if that’s your thing. However, it’s definitely easy to make a meal out of the options sold in the stadium, and vendors serve up local favorites, fresh fare, and exciting internationally-inspired options.

5. AVOID “HOW MAY I HELP YOU?” PEOPLE

It’s unfortunate, but many out-of-town visitors are misled by the individuals who stand outside the stadium holding signs that say “How May I Help You?” Often, it’s a ruse used by ticket scalpers. If you have questions or concerns, be sure to speak with an employee of the stadium.

7. KNOW THAT PARKING IS A CHALLENGE

Even though they hear about how challenging parking in New York is, many out-of-towners are still shocked by how difficult finding a parking spot can be when they visit. If you’re going to be driving yourself to the stadium, be sure and plan out how and where you’ll be paying for parking ahead of time, and allow yourself sufficient time to design a Plan B if you need to. We recommend renting a reliable, local limo service to Yankees stadium to ensure you get dropped off at the front gates, as well as a safe ride home. You won’t need to worry about fighting the traffic after the game or parking debacles.

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