I’ve watched the Cincinnati Reds play baseball since I was a little kid.
I have such great memories of attending games with friends and family over the years.
Now that I’m older, I really enjoy making memories with my boys each season.
I’m sharing tips for bringing kids to a Reds game and how to make the most of your visit to Great American Ballpark.
Great American Ballpark is extremely kid-friendly, which makes watching a ballgame game more enjoyable for parents.
Let’s talk about the features at Great American Ballpark that are great for families of all ages.
1. Incredible Play Areas for Kids
Let’s be honest, most kids have a short attention span when it comes to watching a baseball game which is why these fun activities and play features for young fans are a welcome sight.
Mini Baseball Field / Whiffle Ball Field at Great American Ballpark
The First Star Fan Zone/ mini baseball field is located on the main level.
When my boys were young they LOVED playing on the whiffle ball field EVERY time went to a game.
Kids take turns batting and catching fly balls in the whiffle ball outfield.
It’s a great way for them to burn off some energy and imagine what it’s like to play in the big leagues with their favorite Reds players.
Kids of all ages can play for a bit before the first pitch for the upcoming game or you might use it as a break if they start to get restless during game time.
Batting Cage at Great American Ballpark
There is also a batting cage where kids can practice batting without whiffle balls.
Young Reds fans will also enjoy the interactive games in the First Star Fan Zone.
Playground at Great American Ballpark
The playground is located in the First Star Fan Zone (formerly the Kroger Fan Zone) on the main level.
The playground at Great American Ballpark is fenced-in and has some tables around the perimeter to help adults keep a close watch on their kids.
Photo Ops with the Reds Mascots
If you don’t see a Reds Mascot up close in person, you can still find photo areas in First Star Fan Zone.
Speaking of Mascots, the Cincinnati Reds have 4 mascots!
Who are the mascots for the Cincinnati Reds?
Mr. Red (original baseball head), Gapper (furry creature), Mr. Redlegs (mustache baseball head), and Rosie Red (female baseball head).
Things to Do in the TriHealth Family Zone
The TriHealth Family Zone is located in the right-field corner of the View Level.
The family zone features activities for kids, a nursing suite, an indoor reading and activity room, a concession stand that’s family-focused, a lounge area, and swings with spectacular views of the Ohio River.
*There is also a Pampers Nursing Suite Built by Fischer Homes that’s located on the Suite Level.
The sensory room at Great American Ballpark is the first of its kind in the MLB and serves as a therapeutic space for individuals with learning difficulties, developmental disabilities, or sensory impairments.
Adults will appreciate the comfortable lounge spaces with TVs playing the baseball game located next to the play structure.
The swinging benches are another great area for fans to relax and enjoy views of the Ohio River and Smale Riverfront Park. If you want an adult beverage, there is a beer and wine bar located within a few short steps of the swings.
2. Affordable Ballpark Concession Prices
You’ll find that the prices for concessions at Great American Ballpark are still pretty relatively reasonable.
Unfortunately, the dollar concession stand in the stadium is no longer there but you can still find some deals on food during the baseball game.
Meal Deals at Great American Ballpark
- Kroger Hot Dog Value Meal– For less than $10 you can get a hot dog, soda, chips, and a snack!
- 3-2-1 Tuesdays – On Tuesday Reds home games fans can take advantage of $3 beers (12-oz. Bud and Bud Light cans), $2 hot dogs, and $1 ice cream cups!
- All You Can Eat Stand Passes – For $25 per person, you can get (5) hot dogs and unlimited soft drinks, popcorn, peanuts, and chips.
Where Are The All You Can Eat Stand Locations?
The All You Can Eat Stand Are Located at:
- The First base concourse of the View Level behind Section 428
- Right field concourse of the Terrace Level behind Section 144
If you want a snack that doubles as a souvenir be on the lookout for ice cream or nachos served in a plastic Reds baseball hat.
3. You Can Bring Your Own Snacks and Drinks
For large families, this is a HUGE cost saver. Another way to save some money is to purchase your peanuts and candy at the grocery store before coming to the ballpark.
You can bring in soft drinks and bottled water as long as the safety seal has not been broken. Only soft-sided coolers are permitted and can’t exceed the 16″ x 16″ x 8″ Major League Baseball size requirement.
*Backpacks are not permitted (with the exception of infant care and medical purposes)
All of the above must not exceed the size of 16”x16”x8”.
4. Reds Heads Kids Club Discounts
We have purchased the Kids Club membership many times over the years. The value of what you get in discounts, merchandise, and free game tickets is definitely worth more than the price that you pay.
- Reds Rookies – Ages 0-3- Membership includes a jersey, sun hat, plus 2 free tickets and priceless members-only family experiences.
- Reads Heads for Ages 3-12 – Membership includes a jersey, backpack, 2 free tickets to a Reds game, an exclusive Jonathan India bobblehead once you activate, priceless members-only experiences at Great American Ball Park, and more!
- Club Red for Ages 13-17
They have now extended the ages of the Kids Club to offer incentives for older teenagers too. You can sign up at the Reds Heads Mobile Clubhouse in the First Star Fan Zone or online.
The Reds Heads Mobile Clubhouse is in the First Star Fan Zone.
5. Affordable Ticket Prices and Special Discounts
Attending a Reds baseball game at Great American Ballpark can be more affordable than you may realize.
*Children 3 years old and younger do not require a ticket and may sit on the lap of a ticket holder.
There are several discounts that you can take advantage of for an upcoming game:
- Family Sundays – Families can purchase (3) half-price tickets with the purchase of a full-price ticket in select areas of the ballpark.
- Business Day Specials – 12:35 PM home weekday games View Level seat loaded with $10 in concession credits for just $20! ( Stretch your concession even farther with a Kroger Value Meal for $10.
- Senior Days – Fans 50 and older may purchase select non-premium tickets at half-price in advance of game day only.
Free Admission to the Reds Hall of Fame and Museum
The Reds Hall of Fame and Museum is located adjacent to the Great American Ballpark.
Take advantage of these discounts for kids and active military/veterans.
- Kids 12 and Under Can Visit the Reds Hall of Fame for FREE!
- Active Military/ Veterans with valid ID can visit the Reds Hall of Fame for free.
I also recommend the ballpark tour on non-game days where you get access to locations in the ballpark not open to the public.
6. Fireworks Friday After Reds Home Baseball Games
Enjoy a game and fireworks show each Friday home game during the summer. In Cincinnati, we LOVE fireworks!
Regardless of the outcome of a game, the fireworks never disappoint.
7. Special Fan Certificates
Reds fans attending a game at Great American Ball Park can request a personalized certificate for free on Game Days for the following:
- Anniversaries
- Birthdays
- First Reds Game
- Great Catch
Fans can request certificates at any of the TriHealth Fan Accommodation locations or order certificates through the Ballpark app under “Services and Information-Fan Certificates.”
This is a great way to remember your child’s first time at a Reds game.
Bonus- You Get a Chance to Become Jumbotron Famous
If you have some great dance moves, your jumbotron dreams could come true when the cameras pan for baseball fans in the stadium.
It’s fun to share a baseball game together with family and friends…even if they cheer for the wrong team.
Where is Great American Ballpark Located?
Great American Ball Park is located at 100 Joe Nuxhall Way, Cincinnati, OH.
Where is the Best Parking Near Great American Ball Park?
The following garages are some of the closest options for game day. You can find additional deals on parking and tips that include using the streetcar and parking options in Kentucky.
Central Riverfront Garage
- 202 East Mehring Way – recommended entrance
- 149 Broadway Street
- 182 Race Street
- 124 East Mehring Way
East Garage
- 502 East Mehring Way – recommended entrance
- 475 East Pete Rose Way
Central Riverfront Garage West
- 102 West Pete Rose Way – recommended entrance
- 182 Race Street
Find More Information For An Upcoming Cincinnati Reds Game
You can find prices and schedules for upcoming games on the Cincinnati Reds website.
