Nov 6, 2025
·Mary Callahan
Located along the banks of the Anacostia River in Washington, D.C., Nationals Park is one of Major League Baseball’s most modern ballparks and the proud home of the Washington Nationals. Since opening in 2008, the stadium has become a centerpiece of baseball in the nation’s capital, hosting unforgettable moments like the Nationals’ 2019 World Series run, the MLB All-Star Game, and countless concerts and community events.
With sweeping views of the U.S. Capitol and the Navy Yard, Nationals Park combines classic ballpark traditions with modern amenities, offering fans one of the best live sports experiences in the league.
About Nationals Park
Location: 1500 S Capitol St SE, Washington, D.C. 20003
Opened: 2008
Capacity: ~41,000
Primary Tenant: Washington Nationals (MLB)
The ballpark was designed to revitalize the Navy Yard neighborhood, and it has since transformed the area into one of the most vibrant districts in D.C. Nationals Park was the first major professional stadium in the U.S. to earn LEED certification, highlighting its focus on sustainability alongside fan comfort.
A Look Back at Nationals Park’s History
Nationals Park opened on March 30, 2008, when President George W. Bush threw out the ceremonial first pitch. Since then, it has hosted some of the most significant moments in Washington sports history:
2008: Inaugural season for the Nationals at their new home.
2010: Stephen Strasburg’s electrifying MLB debut.
2018 MLB All-Star Game: Nationals Park welcomed the league’s biggest stars to D.C.
2019 Postseason: The Nationals’ remarkable playoff run culminated in a World Series victory, celebrated at the park with packed watch parties and parades.
Concerts & Events: Superstars like Billy Joel, Taylor Swift and Elton John have taken the stage here.
Nationals Park has quickly become more than just a ballpark—it’s a gathering place for fans and the city.
Getting to Nationals Park
By Car: Nationals Park is located near Interstate 395 and South Capitol Street, with parking garages and surface lots nearby. Event-day parking can be limited, so pre-purchasing passes through the Nationals’ website or SeatGeek is strongly recommended.
Public Transit: The easiest way to get to the ballpark is by the Washington Metro. The Navy Yard-Ballpark station (Green Line) is just steps away from the gates. The Capitol South (Blue/Orange/Silver Lines) is also within walking distance.
Biking & Walking: D.C.’s bike-share program (Capital Bikeshare) has stations around the park, and dedicated bike racks are available. Pedestrian bridges and trails make walking to the stadium easy from surrounding neighborhoods.
Rideshare: Uber, Lyft, and taxis are popular options, with designated pick-up and drop-off points around the Navy Yard area.
Seating at Nationals Park
Nationals Park was designed with fans in mind, offering excellent sightlines and a range of seating experiences:
Lower Bowl Sidelines: Close to the action, with prime views of the infield.
Club Level: Premium seating with access to exclusive clubs, lounges and upgraded concessions.
Upper Deck: Affordable seats that still offer great views of the field and D.C. skyline.
Outfield Seats: A lively atmosphere, including the Budweiser Terrace and center-field seats with social spaces.
Suites: Luxury boxes perfect for groups, featuring catered dining, private entrances and premium amenities.
Specialty Sections: Family-friendly areas, standing-room sections and premium hospitality zones add to the experience.
Food & Drink at Nationals Park
One of the ballpark’s biggest strengths is its food scene, showcasing both stadium classics and D.C. favorites:
Ben’s Chili Bowl: Serving the city’s iconic half-smokes topped with chili.
Shake Shack: Burgers, fries, and shakes from the popular chain.
Local Eats: BBQ, crab cakes, pupusas and other flavors highlighting D.C.’s culinary diversity.
Craft Beer & Cocktails: Local breweries like DC Brau, Atlas and Port City are often on tap.
Ballpark Staples: Hot dogs, pretzels, nachos, popcorn and cotton candy.
Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options are also widely available throughout the park.
Stadium Atmosphere
Nationals Park comes alive on game days, with fans filling the stands in red, white and navy blue:
Baseball Games: From the famous Presidents Race to the roar of the crowd after a Juan Soto home run (or now rising stars), the game-day energy is electric.
Concerts: With capacity expanded and a stage set up in the outfield, the park becomes one of D.C.’s largest concert venues.
Special Events: Nationals Park has hosted college baseball, outdoor hockey games, watch parties and community festivals.
The riverfront setting and post-game options in Navy Yard make the experience even better.
Stadium Policies
Bag Policy: Clear bags no larger than 12” x 12” x 6” are allowed. Small clutches permitted.
Mobile Ticketing: Digital tickets are the standard for entry.
Cashless Venue: Concessions and retail are mostly cashless.
Prohibited Items: Outside food/drink (except one sealed water bottle), umbrellas, large banners and professional cameras.
Re-Entry: Guests may not re-enter once they leave the stadium.
Notable Events at Nationals Park
2010: Stephen Strasburg’s MLB debut draws national attention.
2018 MLB All-Star Game: A showcase of the league’s best talent.
2019 Postseason: Nationals host their first playoff run that ends with a World Series title.
Concerts: Performances by legends like Paul McCartney, Billy Joel, and Taylor Swift.
Community Events: From holiday festivals to charity walks, Nationals Park is a year-round hub.
Nearby Attractions
Located in the Navy Yard neighborhood, Nationals Park is surrounded by dining and entertainment options:
The Yards Park: Scenic green space along the Anacostia River, perfect before or after games.
Navy Yard Restaurants: Breweries, rooftop bars and diverse restaurants like Bluejacket, Mission and The Salt Line.
U.S. Capitol & National Mall: Just a short Metro ride away for sightseeing before a game.
Audi Field: Home of D.C. United and the Washington Spirit, located nearby.
Why Nationals Park Stands Out
Nationals Park is more than a ballpark—it’s a symbol of D.C.’s sports revival. With its modern amenities, eco-friendly design and unbeatable location in the revitalized Navy Yard, the stadium offers one of MLB’s most enjoyable game-day experiences. From walk-off wins to historic postseason moments, it’s a place where memories are made.
Plan Your Visit with SeatGeek
Whether you’re catching a Nationals game, enjoying a summer concert, or experiencing D.C.’s vibrant Navy Yard neighborhood, Nationals Park offers an unforgettable live event experience. Use SeatGeek to find the best tickets, compare seating options and plan your perfect visit to the ballpark.