Take me out to the ball game! Put on your purple and head out to a K-State Baseball game this season! Just like Pete Hughes (the K-State baseball coach – yes, I did have to look it up for purposes of the joke!) has to make a plan for his team to dominate the competition, if you have younger kids, it can also be helpful to have a game plan for when you head out to a ball game this season. Use this guide for some helpful tips and information so you and your family can enjoy a K-State game!
Mom Tip: college baseball seasons start earlier than the pros and they end sooner. The regular season for K-State baseball runs from February through May.
Bag Policy
Bags are allowed in the stadium but there are some rules to follow. You can bring the following:
- A clear bag that is no bigger than 12” x 6” x 12.” You can purchase clear game bags with the K-State logo on it through K-State if you so desire;
- One gallon clear plastic freezer bag; and,
- Small clutch bags, no larger than 5.5” x 7.5”, with or without a handle or strap.
If your family needs an item for medical or child care purposes, they are allowed in the stadium, but they must be in a clear bag, and they will be inspected. More details here.
Parking
Parking is free and super easy for baseball games. You may park in the west lot of the K-State Sports Complex, but do note that it is a bit of a walk from the lot to the stadium which may get challenging for little feet. Definitely plan to give them some extra time to complete the walk to the game. There are also handicap parking spots available, and there are designated stalls for RVs, buses, and campers. After games, sometimes my husband will run and grab the car while I wait with our boys at the front gate to save them from walking all the way back to the car.
Outside Food and Drink
I never have a problem packing snacks for my toddler when they’re in clear ziplock bags in our official K-State clear bag! But do keep in mind that outside food is not technically allowed in the stadium.
You are allowed to bring bottled water and sports drinks inside the stadium IF they are in a clear plastic container that is not bigger than 1 liter. They also need to be sealed or the bottle needs to be completely empty. Water fountains are located on the concourse of Tointon Family Stadium.
There are concessions available in the stadium, and they open an hour before the game! They have lots of options like nachos, cheeseburgers, chicken tenders and fries, hotdogs, and snacks. There’s two concession stands in the stadium, and then there’s usually a cart outside that sells drinks, snacks, and candy. The stadium does also sell beer, for those looking for an adult beverage.
Tickets
With ticket prices starting at $8, a K-State baseball game is a great budget friendly family outing! Guests that are two and older need to present a ticket at the gate, and gates open one hour before the game starts.
Tickets can be purchased and picked up at the stadium ticket office, which opens one hour before the game starts. Make sure to bring your ID if picking up pre-purchased tickets! You can also find tickets online. Just have the barcode ready to scan on your phone.
Forget something in the car? Need to leave shortly and return to the game? No problem! Simply have your ticket electronically scanned “out” so you can re-enter.
At the Stadium
You are allowed to bring strollers, but they must be able to fold up and fit under seating areas or it can be left at owner’s risk.
There are restrooms located on both the lower and suite levels. And there is a family restroom available on the lower level.
We like to sit in a grassy area next to all the seating. We found for our crew, it’s helpful to have space for them to stretch out and run around. Lawn chairs are permitted in the stadium after they have been inspected. And these must be placed in the grassy area if space is available.
Playground
Are the kids getting bored watching the game? Well you’re in luck because The Sidlinger Family Playground is available and open for kids up to 12 years old. Although some parents stay to watch the game and allow kids to go off and play on their own, parents are encouraged to supervise children at the playground. Do keep in mind that it does get very crowded, and younger ones in your crew may need help navigating their way around. It is a ton of fun but can be a bit overwhelming, especially if you go to a weekend game when the crowds are a bit bigger and there are more kiddos on the playground.
Lost and Found
Did your little one leave their favorite toy? As you were scrambling to get everyone and all your stuff collected, did you leave something behind? No problem at all! Just inform an Event Staff member and/or contact the Athletics Operations office at 785-532-7600.
Let’s play ball!
