Oct 23, 2025
·Mary Callahan
Petco Park is one of Major League Baseball’s most beautiful and unique ballparks, located in the heart of downtown San Diego. Home to the San Diego Padres, the stadium is known for its breathtaking views of the city skyline, San Diego Bay and the Coronado Bridge. With its open-air design, sunny SoCal weather and modern amenities, Petco Park has become a premier destination not just for baseball, but also for concerts, festivals and special events. Whether you’re watching the Padres chase a pennant, enjoying a post-game fireworks show or singing along at a sold-out concert, SeatGeek has everything you need to plan your visit to Petco Park.
About Petco Park
Address: Petco Park, 100 Park Blvd, San Diego, CA 92101
Opened in 2004, Petco Park replaced Qualcomm Stadium and quickly became one of the most celebrated ballparks in baseball. It seats around 40,000 fans for baseball and can expand for concerts and large-scale events.
One of the park’s most distinctive features is the Western Metal Supply Co. building, a preserved brick warehouse that was incorporated into the stadium’s design. Beyond Padres games, the venue has hosted concerts by Taylor Swift, Metallica, Paul McCartney and The Rolling Stones, along with events like the World Baseball Classic and college football bowl games.
A Look Back at Petco Park’s History
Petco Park was designed to reflect San Diego’s coastal character while giving fans one of the best ballpark experiences in MLB. Its open design, sandstone architecture and integration into the Gaslamp Quarter make it truly one of a kind. Over the years, the stadium has:
Hosted the 2006, 2009 and 2017 World Baseball Classic
Been the site of the 2016 MLB All-Star Game
Served as a venue for outdoor hockey (the 2015 Frozen Dome Classic) and major college football games
Welcomed world-famous performers across genres for unforgettable concerts
Become a downtown hub for festivals, community events and even golf tournaments
Petco Park’s blend of baseball tradition and Southern California flair has made it one of the most beloved stadiums in America.
How to Get to Petco Park
Driving: Located downtown near I-5 and CA-94, the ballpark is easily accessible by car. Parking lots and garages are available nearby, though spots can be limited during big games and concerts. Pre-purchasing parking is recommended.
Public Transit: The San Diego Trolley stops right at the ballpark, with stations at 12th & Imperial and Gaslamp Quarter. Several bus lines also serve the area.
Rideshare & Shuttles: Uber and Lyft have designated pickup and drop-off locations close to the stadium, making them a popular choice for fans.
Accessibility: Petco Park provides ADA seating, elevators, ramps, accessible parking and shuttle services for guests with disabilities.
Plan Your Visit to Petco Park
Opening Times: Gates typically open 90 minutes before first pitch for Padres games. Concert and event times may vary.
Event Duration: MLB games usually last about 3 hours, while concerts and festivals vary in length.
Ticketing: Mobile ticketing is the preferred entry method, though printed tickets and will-call remain available.
Food & Beverages: Petco Park is famous for having some of the best food in MLB, highlighting San Diego’s local flavors. Fan favorites include Lucha Libre tacos, Hodad’s burgers, Seaside Market tri-tip and Phil’s BBQ. Local craft beers from breweries like Ballast Point and Stone Brewing are served throughout the park.
Amenities: The ballpark features wide concourses, team stores, family-friendly areas and the popular Park at the Park—a grassy hill beyond center field where fans can picnic and watch games. Premium clubs and suites offer luxury amenities, private lounges and upscale dining.
Accessibility Services: Wheelchair seating, assistive listening devices, captioning services and ADA restrooms are available.
Stadium Policies
Bag Policy: Only small bags (no larger than 7″ x 10″) are allowed. Clear bags are strongly recommended.
Security: All fans must pass through security screenings, including metal detectors and bag checks.
Prohibited Items: Outside food and drinks (except sealed water bottles), noisemakers, large umbrellas and professional cameras are not permitted.
Alcohol Policy: A valid photo ID is required for all alcohol purchases. Sales typically end after the 7th inning during baseball games.
Re-Entry: Re-entry is not permitted once you exit the stadium.
Inside Petco Park
The atmosphere at Petco Park is unlike any other ballpark. Padres fans, known as the “Friar Faithful,” bring passion and energy to every game, and the sunny San Diego climate creates a perfect setting for baseball. Concerts benefit from the open-air layout, with the stage often set up in the outfield for maximum visibility.
Unique features like the Western Metal Supply Co. building, the Park at the Park, and panoramic skyline views give Petco Park a signature look and feel that blends baseball with San Diego’s laid-back lifestyle.
Make the Most of Your Visit
Best Value Seats: Upper-level sections along the baselines provide excellent views of the field and skyline at more affordable prices.
Premium Experience: Field Box VIP and Lexus Home Plate Club seating offer all-inclusive food, drinks and luxury amenities.
Concert Tips: Floor seating puts you closest to the stage, while lower bowl sideline seats balance sound and sightlines.
Arrive Early: Explore the Gaslamp Quarter before or after the game—restaurants, bars and nightlife are just steps from the stadium.
Legacy at Petco Park
In just two decades, Petco Park has built a reputation as one of the best ballparks in America. From hosting MLB All-Star Games and World Baseball Classics to unforgettable concerts and championship moments, it has become a landmark not just for San Diego, but for baseball fans everywhere. Its mix of modern design, local food culture and unbeatable scenery make it a must-visit destination.
Plan Your Visit with SeatGeek
Whether you’re cheering on the Padres, enjoying a fireworks night or seeing your favorite artist under the San Diego sky, Petco Park offers a one-of-a-kind live event experience. SeatGeek makes it easy to compare tickets, find the best seats and plan your perfect day at the ballpark.