It’s almost that time of year again when the sun comes out and baseball fans across the United States pack into the stands to cheer on their favorite teams–and there are no fans that bring the energy quite like those of the New York Yankees. If you’re planning a trip to New York City around baseball season, you should consider ordering tickets for a New York Yankees game! This comprehensive guide to Yankee stadium will give you all of the best insider recommendations–food, drinks, and activities–so that you can experience the game like a true fan.
Blending in With the Bleacher Creatures
“Bleacher Creature” is an affectionate term for dedicated Yankees fans, popularized by the New York Daily News columnist Filip Bondy in the 1990s, but accredited to the fan who is considered to be the founder of the group, Ali Ramirez, who went to nearly every home game for more than 20 years leading up to his death in 1996. Ramirez would ring a cowbell to inspire other fans to cheer the team on, and now has a plaque dedicated to his memory in section 203 of the new stadium, which is regarded as the Bleacher Creature section. This is the spot to be if you want to get into the spirit of the game!
Bleacher Creatures have plenty of cheers that they do; like the ‘roll call,’ where they chant the names of the players on the field while the other team is at bat, but being a Bleacher Creature isn’t only about what you say to rev up your team, it’s also about dressing the part to show your Yankee pride. Of course, the most desirable option is a team jersey, but true fans know the importance of layering your merch so you can stay warm during those chilly night games, so consider wearing your jersey over a New York Yankees sweatshirt, that way you can stay comfortable through the bottom of the ninth inning.
Fuel Like a True Fan
Yankee Stadium is known for providing one of the most diverse arrays of food throughout the Major Leagues, but some options stand out above the rest. If you’re in the mood for a light snack, fans recommend opting for the classic bag of peanuts or souvenir bucket of popcorn, or, if you’re looking for something a little more unique, bacon on a stick is offered throughout the park. If you want something a little more substantial, the most popular fan recommendations include; the beef gyro sandwich, offered by The Halal Guys, who have carts located at the Great Hall and Section 321, the steak sandwich, offered by Lobel’s in section 134, or the Big Fly chicken and waffle by Streetbird, which has a stand located in section 112. And, of course, you can’t skip dessert! You can always go with the classic option of soft serve ice cream in a mini souvenir helmet, or you can try the Sunny Skies milkshake, a fan favorite that’s served in a souvenir cup and offered by Yankee Stadium Grand Slam Shakes, which has stands located in sections 112, 125, and 324.
If you’re looking for the kind of meal experience that you just can’t get from a stadium vendor, fans recommend visiting Billy’s before the game. Billy’s is a sports bar and lounge located right by the stadium, making it a popular tradition for sports fans since it was built in the late 90s.
Yankee History
If you want to experience the full history surrounding the team, be sure to visit the New York Yankees Museum, located on the main level of the stadium. The museum opens 90 minutes before the first pitch is thrown and closes at the bottom of the eighth inning. Inside, there are exhibits highlighting the team’s many accomplishments over the years ranging from franchise records to world series rings and trophies. There are also exhibits dedicated to the players, like the baseball wall, which displays baseballs signed by every player who has ever been a part of the New York Yankees, and the locker of Thurman Munson, whose number was immediately retired following his tragic death in 1979.
Another great spot in the stadium you should visit if you want to take in the team’s history is Monument Park. The outdoor museum is located behind a door at the right-field concourse. The park closes before the start of the game and there’s almost always a line to get in, so be sure to arrive at least an hour before the game if you want the chance to see it. The park, like the name suggests, is filled with monuments, plaques, and retired numbers honoring some of the greatest players in New York Yankees history. In addition to being chock full of Yankees heritage, Monument Park also offers a breathtaking view of center field.
Local Attractions
Yankee Stadium offers both afternoon and evening games, so you could plan the rest of your day around the game and could spend time hopping around New York City, taking in the sights. Consider taking a trip to Midtown to visit popular attractions like Times Square and the Museum of Modern Art. Midtown is also home to many restaurants and bars, making it a very popular scene for nightlife.