How to : A Family Can Attend a MLB Game Cheap

Going to a baseball game is an American tradition, unfortunetly so is spending an arm and a leg. It is not a cheap adventure for a family of any size to attend a baseball game, but follow these tips and your wallet will love you.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Walking shoes, soft cooler, a strong will to say no

1. Check out your teams web page and search for discount ticket days. Most teams run some type of family day, half price ticket day, reduced hot dog day, anything. Search the promotion section and plan your day at the park around one of these days. The first way to save money is by taking advantage of lower tickets.
2. Look to see if they allow you to carry in food. I have attended a number of games in Cincinnati and they allow you to bring in a soft cooler full of food and non-alcoholic beverages. See what your favorite team allows and take advantage of it. If they don't allow you to bring anything in, eat before going into the game. Pack a picnic and eat outside the stadium and soak in the environment. If you can eliminate the cost of food, your overall cost can be reduced by a large percentage.
3. Parking is another large cost. For most ballparks there is parking very near the stadium, but you will pay for it. If you have young kids, it might be worth paying the price, but if your kids are older find an alternative. The further away you go from the stadium the cheaper. One option is to park in a parking garage away from the stadium and hop a bus. Or take public transportation from your home, eliminating parking cost altogether.
4. Limit the number of souvenirs you purchase. If your kids want a jersey, buy that prior to the game. Convince them this way they can wear it to the game. Also, if you know months in advance you are going to the game, have your kids earn money by doing chores. This money then can be used for any purchases they may want. This will limit the amount spent and make them feel proud of their purchase and accomplishment.
5. Limit the number of alcoholic beverages. There is no bigger cost than the $7 beer at the game. For many it is a part of the game, but a bar tab at the ballpark can grow rapidly. Limiting the number of drinks will reduce your expenses tremendously.

Tips & Warnings

• Going to the ballpark is expense, but it doesn't have to break the budget. With some smart planning and few guidelines the costs can be controlled.