Parking Lot Party: A Guide to Tailgating in Philadelphia for 2023

Tailgating in Philadelphia: An Unforgettable Fan Experience

For many Philly sports fans, tailgating is a way of life. Generations of fans take pride in their pregame festivities, passing down game day rituals and recipes like treasured family heirlooms.

That pride, passion and preparation manifests in the form of an hours-long party in the parking lot featuring dozens of lawn games, impromptu dance parties, a crisp adult beverage or two, and some of the best food on God’s (Kelly) green Earth.

As game time draws near, the energy outside of the stadium becomes palpable, with fans singing, chanting and reminiscing about past triumphs and envisioning new ones. (Here’s your daily reminder that Brady dropped it.)

These only-in-Philly sights and sounds (and tastes) make the Philadelphia tailgating experience a must-do for any local or visiting sports fan.

Philadelphia Eagles Tailgating Lots

There are several lots where tailgating is permitted around Lincoln Financial Field — and a few where it’s not.

The Linc’s official website houses a handy, color-coded map. Lots in pink are good for food and drink; lots in red, find another instead.

  — Photo by J. Fusco for Visit Philadelphia

Parking is $45 for cars and $90 for oversized vehicles. Note: A few lots (D, E, J and sections of K and L) are reserved. The rest are open for public parking and open at least four-and-a-half hours before kickoff.

Be sure to follow posted signs and follow all instructions given by traffic officers.

Philadelphia Phillies Tailgating Lots

Phillies fans can tailgate in lots A through H, M, N and O. (Here’s a helpful map for reference.) Car parking is $25. Oversized vehicles (anything that takes up more than one parking spot) can pay $50.

Tailgating lots open five hours before first pitch.

Where to Get the Best Food for Tailgating

Food is an integral part of the tailgating experience. Looking for some meal inspo? We got you covered.

Cheesesteaks  

Meat, cheese, bread and optional onions. You really can’t go wrong with a Philly classic. Yep, we’re talking cheesesteaks. A number of the most iconic cheesesteak spots in Philly are conveniently located near the stadiums — from the 24/7 Pat’s and Geno’s about three miles north to Tony and Nick’s, just a stone’s throw from the lots.

Hoagies

The eminently portable, handheld hoagie is another tailgating staple in Philly. Swing by Cosmi’s or Pastificio on the way to the stadiums, or plan ahead by picking up a party platter from any one of Philly’s top hoagie spots.

Pretzels

Looking for a people-pleasing treat? Show up with a dozen soft pretzels in hand, and be the hero of your tailgate. Check out our guide to Philly pretzels for a list of go-to game day spots.

Tailgating Tips & Tricks

Here are some helpful reminders to make your tailgate party one to remember:

• Plan to arrive early: For the ideal tailgating experience, plan to arrive bright and early. For Eagles games, parking lots typically open at least four-and-a-half hours before kickoff for 1 p.m. games and up to seven hours before primetime matchups. Folks are known to line up early to snag their favorite spot. For Phillies games, tailgating lots open about five hours before the first pitch.
• Make a bathroom plan: Knowing where the closest place to “go” is can mean the difference between a great and not-so-great game day. Port-a-potties are available in several of the lots surrounding the stadiums. It’s always a good idea to scout out a bathroom location before parking. Pro tip: Bring a roll of toilet paper and some hand sanitizer … just in case the port-a-potties are running low.

  

    — Photo by J. Fusco for Visit Philadelphia

• Dress for the weather: Except for a few covered sections in the K lot, you’re at the mercy of the elements while tailgating. Pack sunscreen and water bottles for warm-weather games. In colder months, dress in layers. Remember: It’s always better to overdress than under-dress for the cold weather.
• Clean up after yourself: No one likes a mess. Bring a few sturdy trash bags, and bag up your waste. Keep an eye out for sanitation crews as they make their way through the lots to collect trash throughout the tailgate. Tidy bags can be left behind your vehicle for pickup once you head into the game.
• Make a checklist: Now is not the time to wing it. Make a list of all the things you’ll need for an awesome tailgate party, and check it twice before leaving. Here’s a good starting point:
  • • Chairs
    • Coolers
    • Drinks of your choice (and water!)
    • Game day grub
    • Cups, plates, koozies and napkins
    • Trash bags
    • A Bluetooth speaker and a bumpin’ pregame playlist
    • Lawn games
• Know what you can bring into the stadium: Nothing ruins a perfectly timed tailgate departure quite like being turned away at the stadium gates. Familiarize yourself with what you can (and more importantly cannot) bring into the stadiums before you leave the lots. Check out the safety protocols and bag policies for Lincoln Financial Field and Citizens Bank Park on their official websites.     

Alternatives to Tailgating

While tailgating can be an amazing experience, it isn’t for everyone. And it’s always wise to have a backup plan in case of inclement weather. Check out our guide to where to eat near the Sports Complex for more traditional dining options before the big game.