Nationals Park Parking Tips Guide for the Washing Nationals

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The Washington Nationals play their home games at Nationals Park in Washington, D.C. If you plan to see a Nationals game sometime soon, it’s best to plan your parking strategy in advance. 

This detailed National Park parking tips guide offers detailed parking information, including:

  • The best official National Park parking lots
  • Third-party parking lots near National Park you can book in advance
  • Areas to look for free parking in Washington D.C.
  • Handicap parking solutions
  • Public transit options for Washington Nationals events
  • Other valuable National Park parking tips to save time and money

Along with venues like Fenway Park and Kauffman Stadium, Nationals Park is one of the few MLB stadiums that does not bear the name of a corporate sponsor. Use this guide to figure out your parking plan, and look forward to a great outing with family or friends.

Official Nationals Park Parking Lots

Nationals Park is located near the Navy yard in Washington. It is nearby all United States government attractions, which means that traffic in the area can be heavy.

There are a few official parking options associated with National Park. Like many other parks, the Nationals use the MLB Ballpark app to manage parking passes, so you can purchase a spot in advance and then show your parking pass on your phone when you arrive at the appropriate garage.

nationals park parking map overview

Securing a convenient parking spot is essential When planning a trip to Nationals Park for a baseball game. The official parking lots offer several options, balancing proximity to the stadium and cost. Let’s examine some of the main parking options available to you.

Premier Parking Options

If you prefer parking near the stadium, the GEICO Garage and Garage C should be your top picks. Both garages are located right next to the stadium, adjacent to the centerfield entrance. This proximity makes them the most convenient options, particularly if you’d like to minimize walking distance.

Value Parking Options

Lots T, U, and W near Nationals Park are excellent choices for fans looking for more budget-friendly parking alternatives. These parking lots are a few blocks from the stadium but offer pre-purchasable parking slots. Additionally, after the game, you may find that exiting these lots is faster due to lesser congestion around the stadium area.

Parking Prices

The cost of parking varies significantly depending on the lot’s location. Below is a general indication of the pricing you can expect:

Parking OptionPrice Range
GEICO Garage~$50
Garage C~$50
Lot W~$30

Remember, Lot W is the most affordable option, given its further distance from the stadium. On the other hand, expect to pay up to $50 for the premium convenience of parking in the GEICO Garage or Garage C.

Considering your convenience and budget preferences, you can make the most suitable parking choice to ensure a smooth experience at Nationals Park.

official nationals park parking tips map

EV Parking at Nationals Park

There are a few different EV charging stations in the area around Nationals Park. While charging up in the area is possible, we’d recommend taking care of your charging ahead of time, if at all possible.

This area can be quite busy and congested leading up to a game, so trying to secure a spot at a charger is a headache you don’t need. Charge up the night before if you can and enjoy the event. 

Accessible Parking Spaces

If you require ADA-accessible parking, select that designation when purchasing your parking in advance. You can choose that option when picking out and paying for the parking lot you select, so there should be a suitable spot available for you upon arrival. 

Third-Party Parking Options at Nationals Park

Reserving third-party parking is a great way to ensure you have a spot when you show up for a Nationals game. To make that task easy, we have included a SpotHero widget below that you can use to pick out the ideal parking location for your needs.

My favorite third-party option for Nationals games is the garage at 1160 1st Street SE. This location offers reasonable rates, a short walk to the venue, and parking indoors and out of the weather. 

best third party parking lot near Nationals Field

In addition to this garage, some personal parking spots are offered on SpotHero just to the west of the stadium near Capitol Street SW. These individual spots fill up quickly, but you can’t beat the proximity they offer to the gates. 

Free Parking at Nationals Park

It will be very difficult to secure any free parking in the area around Nationals Park. Given the park’s location just blocks from the United States Capitol and other prominent landmarks, this is an extremely popular area, and parking is always at a premium.

To avoid paying for parking, you’ll want to use public transit, a rideshare service, ride a bike, or even walk to the game. 

Nationals Park Public Transportation

When planning your trip to Nationals Park, Washington D.C.’s efficient public transportation network offers a variety of convenient and affordable options. Let’s delve into some of the best ones.

Metro Service

The Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority, commonly known as Metro, provides a swift and reliable means to reach the park. The Navy Yard-Ballpark station on the Green Line is the closest Metro station to Nationals Park. This station is just a short walk away from the stadium, making it a fantastic choice if accessible to you.

Alternatively, you can alight at the Capitol South Station, served by the Orange, Blue, and Silver Lines. While this station is a bit further from the park, it connects to more lines, offering greater flexibility for fans from different parts of the city.

DC Circulator

The DC Circulator is another convenient and cost-effective choice to reach Nationals Park. At just $1 per ride, this bus service is a real bargain. The bus arrives at the Navy Yard every 10 minutes, making it a great option for quick, hassle-free travel to the park.

Travel Planning Tips

Before setting off, check the Metro or DC Circulator’s schedule and route map online to plan your journey efficiently. This way, you’ll avoid any unexpected surprises on the event day and ensure a seamless transit experience.

Enjoy your visit to Nationals Park and the thrilling baseball action it promises!

Ridesharing to Nationals Park

If you use a rideshare service to get to and from the venue, avoid using South Capitol Street for your pickup or drop-off location. The busyness of this street makes stopping to get in or out a dangerous activity for everyone on the road.

Plenty of other surface streets near Nationals Park other than South Capitol Street that will work nicely for pickup or drop-off. 

Nationals Park Stadium Events

Whether you’d like to watch a baseball game in the nation’s capital or catch one of the other events in the park, the table below will help you find great seats.

DateNameLocationBuy Tickets
July 02, 2024Washington Nationals vs. New York MetsNationals Park
Washington, DC, US
TicketmasterStubHub
July 03, 2024Washington Nationals vs. New York MetsNationals Park
Washington, DC, US
TicketmasterStubHub
July 04, 2024Washington Nationals vs. New York MetsNationals Park
Washington, DC, US
TicketmasterStubHub
July 05, 2024The National, Unknown Mortal Orchestra + Kevin Morby + This Is The KitCrystal Palace Park
London, , GB
TicketmasterStubHub
July 05, 2024Washington Nationals vs. St. Louis CardinalsNationals Park
Washington, DC, US
TicketmasterStubHub
July 06, 2024Washington Nationals vs. St. Louis CardinalsNationals Park
Washington, DC, US
TicketmasterStubHub
July 07, 2024Washington Nationals vs. St. Louis CardinalsNationals Park
Washington, DC, US
TicketmasterStubHub
July 08, 2024Washington Nationals vs. St. Louis CardinalsNationals Park
Washington, DC, US
TicketmasterStubHub
July 10, 20242024 FXR Spring Creek National-Pro Motocross-Round 7Spring Creek Motocross Park
Millville, MN, US
TicketmasterStubHub
July 10, 2024National Seminario Ravinia OrchestraRavinia
Highland Park, IL, US
TicketmasterStubHub
July 13, 2024Savannah Bananas vs. The FirefightersNationals Park
Washington, DC, US
TicketmasterStubHub
July 15, 20242024 Washougal National - Pro Motocross - Round 8Washougal MX Park
Washougal, WA, US
TicketmasterStubHub
July 19, 2024Ames Performance Pontiac Nationals - FridaySummit Motorsports Park
Norwalk, OH, US
TicketmasterStubHub
July 19, 2024Washington Nationals vs. Cincinnati RedsNationals Park
Washington, DC, US
TicketmasterStubHub
July 20, 2024Ames Performance Pontiac Nationals - SaturdaySummit Motorsports Park
Norwalk, OH, US
TicketmasterStubHub
July 20, 2024Washington Nationals vs. Cincinnati RedsNationals Park
Washington, DC, US
TicketmasterStubHub
July 21, 2024Ames Performance Pontiac Nationals - SundaySummit Motorsports Park
Norwalk, OH, US
TicketmasterStubHub
July 21, 2024Washington Nationals vs. Cincinnati RedsNationals Park
Washington, DC, US
TicketmasterStubHub
July 23, 2024Washington Nationals vs. San Diego PadresNationals Park
Washington, DC, US
TicketmasterStubHub
July 24, 2024Washington Nationals vs. San Diego PadresNationals Park
Washington, DC, US
TicketmasterStubHub
July 25, 2024Washington Nationals vs. San Diego PadresNationals Park
Washington, DC, US
TicketmasterStubHub
July 27, 2024Guatemala Soccer vs. El Salvador SoccerDignity Health Sports Park
Carson, CA, US
TicketmasterStubHub
July 29, 2024Green Day - The Saviors TourNationals Park
Washington, DC, US
TicketmasterStubHub
August 01, 2024LollapaloozaGrant Park
Chicago, IL, US
VenueStubHub
August 02, 2024Washington Nationals vs. Milwaukee BrewersNationals Park
Washington, DC, US
TicketmasterStubHub
August 03, 2024Washington Nationals vs. Milwaukee BrewersNationals Park
Washington, DC, US
TicketmasterStubHub
August 04, 2024Washington Nationals vs. Milwaukee BrewersNationals Park
Washington, DC, US
TicketmasterStubHub
August 05, 2024Washington Nationals vs. San Francisco GiantsNationals Park
Washington, DC, US
TicketmasterStubHub
August 06, 2024Washington Nationals vs. San Francisco GiantsNationals Park
Washington, DC, US
TicketmasterStubHub
August 06, 2024Gustavo Dudamel w/ National Children's Symphony of VenezuelaRavinia
Highland Park, IL, US
TicketmasterStubHub
August 07, 2024Washington Nationals vs. San Francisco GiantsNationals Park
Washington, DC, US
TicketmasterStubHub
August 08, 2024Washington Nationals vs. San Francisco GiantsNationals Park
Washington, DC, US
TicketmasterStubHub
August 09, 2024Washington Nationals vs. Los Angeles AngelsNationals Park
Washington, DC, US
TicketmasterStubHub
August 10, 2024Washington Nationals vs. Los Angeles AngelsNationals Park
Washington, DC, US
TicketmasterStubHub
August 11, 2024Washington Nationals vs. Los Angeles AngelsNationals Park
Washington, DC, US
TicketmasterStubHub
August 15, 2024Philadelphia Phillies vs. Washington NationalsCitizens Bank Park
Philadelphia, PA, US
TicketmasterStubHub
August 16, 2024Philadelphia Phillies vs. Washington NationalsCitizens Bank Park
Philadelphia, PA, US
TicketmasterStubHub
August 17, 20242024 Yamaha Racing Budds Creek National - Pro Motocross - Round 10Budds Creek Motocross Park
Mechanicsville, MD, US
TicketmasterStubHub
August 17, 2024Philadelphia Phillies vs. Washington NationalsCitizens Bank Park
Philadelphia, PA, US
TicketmasterStubHub
August 17, 2024idobi Summer SchoolCity National Grove of Anaheim
Anaheim, CA, US
TicketmasterStubHub
August 18, 2024Philadelphia Phillies vs. Washington NationalsCitizens Bank Park
Philadelphia, PA, US
TicketmasterStubHub
August 20, 2024Washington Nationals vs. Colorado RockiesNationals Park
Washington, DC, US
TicketmasterStubHub
August 21, 2024Leeds Festival 2024 - Weekend + Early EntryBramham Park
Leeds, , GB
TicketmasterStubHub
August 21, 2024Leeds Festival 2024 - Weekend & Early Entry Payment PlanBramham Park
Leeds, , GB
TicketmasterStubHub
August 20, 2024Columbia Fireflies vs. Fredericksburg NationalsSegra Park
Columbia, SC, US
TicketmasterStubHub
August 21, 2024Washington Nationals vs. Colorado RockiesNationals Park
Washington, DC, US
TicketmasterStubHub
August 22, 2024Leeds Festival 2024 - WeekendBramham Park
Leeds, , GB
TicketmasterStubHub
August 22, 2024Leeds Festival 2024 - Weekend Payment PlanBramham Park
Leeds, , GB
TicketmasterStubHub
August 21, 2024Columbia Fireflies vs. Fredericksburg NationalsSegra Park
Columbia, SC, US
TicketmasterStubHub
August 22, 2024Washington Nationals vs. Colorado RockiesNationals Park
Washington, DC, US
TicketmasterStubHub
August 22, 2024Columbia Fireflies vs. Fredericksburg NationalsSegra Park
Columbia, SC, US
TicketmasterStubHub
August 23, 2024Leeds Festival 2024 - Friday Day TicketsBramham Park
Leeds, , GB
TicketmasterStubHub
August 23, 2024Columbia Fireflies vs. Fredericksburg NationalsSegra Park
Columbia, SC, US
TicketmasterStubHub
August 23, 2024Atlanta Braves vs. Washington NationalsTruist Park
Atlanta, GA, US
TicketmasterStubHub
August 24, 2024Columbia Fireflies vs. Fredericksburg NationalsSegra Park
Columbia, SC, US
TicketmasterStubHub
August 24, 2024Atlanta Braves vs. Washington NationalsTruist Park
Atlanta, GA, US
TicketmasterStubHub
August 25, 2024Atlanta Braves vs. Washington NationalsTruist Park
Atlanta, GA, US
TicketmasterStubHub
August 25, 2024Columbia Fireflies vs. Fredericksburg NationalsSegra Park
Columbia, SC, US
TicketmasterStubHub
August 26, 2024The National ParksThe Lexington
London, , GB
TicketwebStubHub
August 26, 2024Washington Nationals vs. New York YankeesNationals Park
Washington, DC, US
TicketmasterStubHub
August 27, 2024The National ParksKing Tuts Wah Wah Hut
Glasgow, , GB
TicketwebStubHub
August 27, 2024Washington Nationals vs. New York YankeesNationals Park
Washington, DC, US
TicketmasterStubHub
August 28, 2024Washington Nationals vs. New York YankeesNationals Park
Washington, DC, US
TicketmasterStubHub
August 29, 2024The National ParksThe Grand Social
Dublin, , IE
TicketmasterStubHub
August 30, 2024Washington Nationals vs. Chicago CubsNationals Park
Washington, DC, US
TicketmasterStubHub
August 31, 2024USA National Rugby vs. Rugby CanadaDignity Health Sports Park
Carson, CA, US
TicketmasterStubHub
August 31, 2024Washington Nationals vs. Chicago CubsNationals Park
Washington, DC, US
TicketmasterStubHub
September 01, 2024Washington Nationals vs. Chicago CubsNationals Park
Washington, DC, US
TicketmasterStubHub
September 03, 2024Miami Marlins vs. Washington NationalsLoanDepot Park
Miami, FL, US
TicketmasterStubHub
September 04, 2024Miami Marlins vs. Washington NationalsLoanDepot Park
Miami, FL, US
TicketmasterStubHub
September 05, 2024Pittsburgh Pirates vs. Washington NationalsPNC Park
Pittsburgh, PA, US
TicketmasterStubHub
September 06, 2024Tough Luck Fest 2024 (Friday, September 6th - One Day Ticket)Brighton Music Hall presented by Citizens
Boston, MA, US
Live NationStubHub
September 06, 2024Pittsburgh Pirates vs. Washington NationalsPNC Park
Pittsburgh, PA, US
TicketmasterStubHub
September 06, 2024The National ParksStrings Music Pavilion
Steamboat Springs, CO, US
TicketmasterStubHub
September 07, 2024Pittsburgh Pirates vs. Washington NationalsPNC Park
Pittsburgh, PA, US
TicketmasterStubHub
September 07, 2024U.S. Men's National Team v CanadaChildren's Mercy Park
Kansas City, KS, US
TicketmasterStubHub
September 07, 2024Bruce Springsteen and The E Street Band 2024 TourNationals Park
Washington, DC, US
TicketmasterStubHub
September 07, 2024The National ParksGothic Theatre
Englewood, CO, US
TicketmasterStubHub
September 08, 2024Pittsburgh Pirates vs. Washington NationalsPNC Park
Pittsburgh, PA, US
TicketmasterStubHub
September 10, 2024Washington Nationals vs. Atlanta BravesNationals Park
Washington, DC, US
TicketmasterStubHub
September 10, 2024The National ParksThe Pub Station
Billings, MT, US
TicketmasterStubHub
September 11, 2024Washington Nationals vs. Atlanta BravesNationals Park
Washington, DC, US
TicketmasterStubHub
September 11, 2024The National ParksThe Newberry
Great Falls, MT, US
TicketmasterStubHub
September 12, 2024Washington Nationals vs. Miami MarlinsNationals Park
Washington, DC, US
TicketmasterStubHub
September 12, 2024The National ParksTreefort Music Hall
Boise, ID, US
TicketmasterStubHub
September 13, 2024Washington Nationals vs. Miami MarlinsNationals Park
Washington, DC, US
TicketmasterStubHub
September 13, 2024Gin BlossomsOaklawn Racing Casino Resort
Hot Springs National Park, AR, US
TicketmasterStubHub
September 14, 2024Washington Nationals vs. Miami MarlinsNationals Park
Washington, DC, US
TicketmasterStubHub
September 14, 2024The National ParksSandy Amphitheater
Sandy, UT, US
TicketmasterStubHub
September 15, 2024Washington Nationals vs. Miami MarlinsNationals Park
Washington, DC, US
TicketmasterStubHub
September 19, 2024The National ParksColonial Theatre - Idaho
Idaho Falls, ID, US
TicketmasterStubHub
September 20, 2024Travis TrittOaklawn Racing Casino Resort
Hot Springs National Park, AR, US
TicketmasterStubHub
September 21, 2024HFStival 2024Nationals Park
Washington, DC, US
TicketmasterStubHub
September 22, 2024Bourbon & BeyondHighland Festival Grounds at KY Expo Center
Louisville, KY, US
VenueStubHub
September 24, 2024Washington Nationals vs. Kansas City RoyalsNationals Park
Washington, DC, US
TicketmasterStubHub
September 25, 2024Washington Nationals vs. Kansas City RoyalsNationals Park
Washington, DC, US
TicketmasterStubHub
September 26, 2024Washington Nationals vs. Kansas City RoyalsNationals Park
Washington, DC, US
TicketmasterStubHub
September 26, 2024The National ParksAladdin Theater
Portland, OR, US
TicketmasterStubHub
September 27, 2024Washington Nationals vs. Philadelphia PhilliesNationals Park
Washington, DC, US
TicketmasterStubHub
September 27, 2024NC The National Parks
, ,
VenueStubHub
September 27, 2024The National Parks - Wild Spirit TourNeptune Theatre
Seattle, WA, US
TicketmasterStubHub
September 28, 2024Washington Nationals vs. Philadelphia PhilliesNationals Park
Washington, DC, US
TicketmasterStubHub
September 28, 2024The National ParksWOW Hall
Eugene, OR, US
TicketwebStubHub
September 29, 2024Washington Nationals vs. Philadelphia PhilliesNationals Park
Washington, DC, US
TicketmasterStubHub
October 02, 2024The National ParksCornerstone - CA
Berkeley, CA, US
TicketmasterStubHub
October 03, 2024The National & The War On Drugs 2024 Premium Park
, ,
VenueStubHub
October 04, 2024The National Parks: Wild Spirit TourHouse of Blues San Diego
San Diego, CA, US
Live NationStubHub
October 05, 2024The National Parks: Wild Spirit TourThe Van Buren
Phoenix, AZ, US
Live NationStubHub
October 11, 2024Fanning Dempsey National Park - SOLD OUT!The Fortitude Music Hall
Brisbane, QLD, AU
TicketmasterStubHub
October 11, 2024The National ParksSlowdown
Omaha, NE, US
TicketmasterStubHub
October 12, 2024The National ParksWooly's
Des Moines, IA, US
TicketmasterStubHub
October 13, 2024The National ParksVivarium
Milwaukee, WI, US
TicketmasterStubHub
October 15, 2024The National Parks: Wild Spirit TourThe Blue Note
Columbia, MO, US
TicketmasterStubHub
October 17, 2024The National ParksBeer City Music Hall
Oklahoma City, OK, US
TicketmasterStubHub
October 18, 2024The National ParksThe Kessler
Dallas, TX, US
TicketmasterStubHub
October 19, 2024The National ParksScoot Inn
Austin, TX, US
Live NationStubHub
October 19, 2024John Michael MontgomeryOaklawn Racing Casino Resort
Hot Springs National Park, AR, US
TicketmasterStubHub
October 20, 2024The National ParksHeights Theater
Houston, TX, US
TicketmasterStubHub
November 09, 2024Fanning Dempsey National ParkThe Tivoli
Brisbane, QLD, AU
TicketmasterStubHub
November 15, 2024Aaron LewisOaklawn Racing Casino Resort
Hot Springs National Park, AR, US
TicketmasterStubHub

Bars & Restaurants near Nationals Park

Plenty of good dining options are available within close proximity of the park. If you’d like to be able to walk around and pick from several different establishments, look to the area north of the stadium.

Here, you’ll find businesses like:

  • Tap99
  • the Silver Diner
  • GATSBY

and a bunch of other favorites.

When your meal is over, and your drink is finished, you’ll be just a short walk across the street from entering the venue and finding your seat. 

Nationals Park Parking Tips for a Great Outing

Everyone who attends big events has a horror story about a parking nightmare that caused them to miss the start of the game or concert. Or, if you got in on time, it might have taken you hours to leave after it was over. 

Let’s review some basic parking tips to ensure that doesn’t happen to you at National Park.

Arrive Early and Beat Traffic

To say that traffic in and around Washington, D.C. can get crowded would be an incredible understatement. Plan your day to get to the stadium early and secure parking before it gets crazy. 

Check to see when the gates will open, and you can arrive early to enjoy as much time inside the facility as possible. 

Know What You Can Bring

National Park has specific policies regarding what can and can’t come into the building like all other stadiums. Check these rules in advance so you don’t have to leave things in the car. 

Remember Where You Parked!

There are many parking spaces available around National Park. You don’t want to be searching for your vehicle at the end of the day. Consider snapping a quick picture of your car’s location on your phone so you can get back to it easily. 

Don’t Leave Things in Your Vehicle

With so many vehicles left unattended for hours, there is always the threat of criminal activity while an event is going on. To reduce the chances of theft, leave any valuable items at home, or at least tuck them away out of sight in your car or truck. And, of course, remember to lock up! 

Pick a Gate

Entering the park through a gate close to your seats makes a lot of sense. With that in mind, consider trying to park on the same side of the stadium as the gate you’d like to use so that the whole experience can be simple and streamlined. Look at a map of the venue in advance to chart out your path from parking to take your seat. 

Conclusion

In conclusion, planning your parking strategy in advance is essential when attending a Washington Nationals game at Nationals Park in Washington D.C. This comprehensive Nationals Park parking tips guide provides valuable information on official parking lots, third-party options, free parking areas, handicap parking solutions, public transit alternatives, and other useful tips to save time and money.

Remember to arrive early to beat traffic, familiarize yourself with the park’s policies, keep track of your parking location, avoid leaving valuable items in your vehicle, and choose a gate close to your seats for easy access.

Proper planning lets you make the most of your visit to Nationals Park and have a fantastic experience.

Frequently Asked Questions for Parking at Nationals Park (FAQs)

How much does parking cost at Nationals Park?

You’ll find varied parking prices depending on the event you will attend. It’s typically about $20 – $40 to park for an MLB game, but preferred lots will be more, and you might find even higher concert prices. It’s best to secure your parking as early as possible to give yourself plenty of choices. 

Is Official Nationals Park Parking or a Third-Party Lot the Better Option?

While either option can be effective for attending a Nationals game, we’d give the edge to the official parking facilities just because of availability and location near the stadium. Specifically, if you can secure a spot in Garage C or the GEICO Garage, you’ll be quite close to the entrance to the stadium. 

Can I leave my vehicle overnight at Nationals Park?

No, there is no overnight parking available at National Park. You must return to your vehicle and depart reasonably after the event ends. 

Does Nationals Park offer bicycle parking?

Nationals Park is one of the best venues in MLB to use a bike as your chosen mode of transportation. Not only are there 250 available bike racks around the park, but there is also a free bicycle valet, a service that is also offered at Fenway Park and Wrigley Field. To use the bike valet, visit the entrance to garage C.

What alternative transportation options are available?

Public transportation and rideshare services are good options if you’d like to attend National Park without needing to drive. 

How early are Nationals Park parking lots open?

The timing of parking lots opening up for vehicles to enter will depend on the event you are attending. For regular-season baseball games, you can expect the gates to the venue to open 90 minutes before first pitch. The official parking facilities near the stadium – Garage C and the GEICO Garage – open an hour before the gates open. 

 

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