There’s something magical about a Detroit Tigers game at Comerica Park, an outing that blends the excitement of Major League Baseball with pure Detroit community spirit. The Tigers have roared in the Motor City for well over a century, making them the oldest American League team to never change hometowns. For generations of Michiganders, taking the kids “down to the ballpark” isn’t just an afternoon of entertainment; it’s a rite of passage. From the moment you pass the iconic tiger statues guarding the gates to the final cheer of the night, a Tigers game offers families a chance to create memories steeped in local tradition and fun. This guide, written in the voice of a lifelong Metro Detroiter and real estate expert, will walk you through everything you need to know to hit a home run on your next family trip to Comerica Park. Play ball!
Detroit Tigers, Facebook
Why Tigers Baseball is a Beloved Family Tradition in Detroit
A Detroit Tigers game is more than nine innings of baseball, it’s a family tradition that connects past and present. Grandparents who once watched Al Kaline at the old Tiger Stadium now bring their grandkids to see Miguel Cabrera’s last seasons at Comerica Park. The Tigers have called Detroit home for nearly 130 years, and that rich history is palpable on game day. Parents love sharing the lore of the “big cats of the MLB” with their little ones, from the story of how the team got its name to memories of pennant runs and World Series titles. Kids, meanwhile, soak up the electric atmosphere: the glow of stadium lights as evening sets in, the crack of a bat echoing across the field, and the chorus of fans singing “Take Me Out to the Ballgame” during the 7th-inning stretch.
For many Metro Detroit families, a Tigers game is a multi-sensory experience that triggers nostalgia and pride. It starts with everyone decking out in the team’s classic orange and navy gear (face paint optional but encouraged!) and often ends with a sleepy child clutching a new souvenir baseball or a plush PAWS the tiger mascot. Locals know that even if the Tigers don’t win that day, the experience wins every time. The combination of sport, community, and childhood wonder at Comerica Park encapsulates what we love about Metro Detroit, it’s friendly, passionate, and proudly homegrown.
Planning Your Visit: Getting to Comerica Park with Kids
Location & Parking
Comerica Park is located in the heart of downtown Detroit (2100 Woodward Ave.), easily accessible from Metro Detroit suburbs and city neighborhoods alike. When traveling with young children, convenience is key. If you’re driving, you’ll find numerous parking lots and garages around the stadium. Keep in mind that the closer you park to the stadium, the higher the cost tends to be, a trade-off between price and a short walk (which can be a big factor with toddlers in tow). Many locals pre-book parking spots online via services like ParkWhiz to lock in a good rate and avoid day-of stress. This is a smart move, especially for popular games or weekends. Also, consider parking in a secured lot or garage that’s on your route home, it might cost a few extra dollars, but a quick exit with tired kids is often worth it.
Public Transit
Don’t want to deal with downtown parking at all? Detroit’s transit options can be a fun adventure for kids and an easy alternative for parents. The QLine streetcar runs along Woodward Avenue, you can park in Midtown or New Center and ride the QLine to the Grand Circus stop, which drops you just a short walk from Comerica Park. Kids usually get a kick out of the modern streetcar ride. Several DDOT and SMART bus routes (1, 2, 4, 5, 9, 16 among others) also have stops near the stadium. If you’re coming from the suburbs, you might make use of a park-and-ride and take a bus downtown. Another novel option is the Detroit People Mover, an elevated train looping downtown, you can park a bit farther out (near a People Mover station) and ride to Grand Circus or Greektown station, then walk to the ballpark. It’s not only convenient but also gives the family a mini tour of the city from above.
Timing Your Trip
Aim to arrive early, especially for weekend games. Not only will this help you snag easier parking and avoid last-minute rushing, but it also gives your family time to soak in the pre-game atmosphere. Gates typically open 90 minutes before the first pitch, and that’s a perfect window to explore (more on fun pre-game activities shortly!). If you have very young kids, consider attending a day game (many Sunday games start at 1:10 PM) so the little ones are not up past their bedtime. Conversely, older kids might love a Friday night game so they can catch the fireworks after the final out (a summertime tradition starting in June on most Friday home games). Whenever you go, check the weather forecast beforehand; Detroit weather can be unpredictable. Pack sunscreen and hats for hot afternoon games, and light jackets or blankets for cooler evenings. Michigan evenings, even after a warm day, can get chilly by the late innings. Layering is your friend. And if there’s a chance of rain, maybe throw in some ponchos; a little summer shower won’t stop the game unless it’s a downpour, so you’ll want to be prepared to keep cheering through a sprinkle.
Local Tip
If you’re coming from a Metro Detroit community, make the journey part of the fun. Families from Novi, Troy, or Dearborn often treat a Tigers game as a “big Detroit outing”, perhaps grabbing a bite in Greektown or an ice cream at a downtown shop before heading to the park. Planning a short walk through Campus Martius or a photo op at the Fox Theatre marquee (just across the street from Comerica Park) can add to the adventure and help kids burn off a little energy before sitting for the game.
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Detroit Tigers, Facebook
Tickets, Seating & Special Deals for Families
Tickets for Kids
When it comes to tickets, the Tigers have family-friendly policies. Children 3 years old and under do not need a ticket as long as they sit on an adult’s lap during the game. All other kids (ages 4 and up) will need their own seat. If you’ve got a squirmy toddler, you probably already know that expecting them to sit still for nine innings is a tall order, so it’s often worth getting an extra ticket for a little more elbow room, even if your under-3 child could technically sit on your lap. Many parents opt for an aisle seat for easier ins-and-outs to the concourse (for those inevitable potty and snack breaks).
Best Seating Areas
Comerica Park has a variety of seating options, and your choice might depend on your kids’ ages and interests. If you have very young children or babies, sections near the lower concourse might be convenient for quick exits to the concourse attractions (like the carousel and Ferris wheel) or to the restrooms and nursing rooms. The first-base side of the stadium (Sections 118-120 area) is near the Big Cat Court and the Hi-Chew Carousel (more on that carousel soon!), while the third-base side (Sections 130-133) is near the Fly Ball Ferris Wheel and a good route to the left-field main entrance. Also, if it’s a sunny day game, note that seats along the first base/right field side get a lot of afternoon sun, whereas third base/left field side might be a bit shadier later in the day. For a treat, some families like sitting close to the Tigers’ dugout (on the first base side) in early innings to try for player autographs during warm-ups, but those are pricier seats and not necessary for a good time. Generally, upper deck seats are more affordable and offer a great panoramic view, but be mindful that lots of stairs (or crowded escalators) with strollers and toddlers can be challenging.
Family Value Deals
The Detroit Tigers regularly offer special deals for families, especially on certain days of the week or year. In fact, Sunday home games are branded as Family Fun Days (often sponsored, recently by Chevy) and are hands-down the best bang for your buck with kids. For example, during the 2025 season the Tigers offered a Sunday Family Funday package: 4 tickets, 4 hot dogs, and 4 soft drinks for $99, a huge savings that essentially let a family of four enjoy the game (with lunch) for under $25 per person. In 2024, a similar package was available for as little as $79 on certain Sundays. These packages may change year to year, so it’s wise to check the Tigers’ website for current family promotions before buying tickets. Tip: If you have a larger family or group, also look into Group Tickets or Value Days (the Tigers occasionally have discount days or kids-free events). And remember that buying directly from the Tigers or an authorized source is best; avoid scalpers or third-party sellers with kids in tow, as that can introduce unnecessary hiccups.
Giveaways and Special Promotions
Part of the fun is snagging some Tigers swag! The Tigers schedule various giveaway days throughout the season, often on Saturday home games, the first 15,000 fans might receive free goodies like caps, bobbleheads, jerseys and more. If your kids would love a souvenir, consider targeting a giveaway game (just plan to arrive when gates open to better your odds of getting the item). Sunday Kids Days usually come with a freebie for kids upon entry as well, in past seasons, everything from player bobbleheads to kid-sized jerseys have been Sunday prizes for the under-14 crowd. (One Metro Detroit mom recalls her daughters’ smiles when they each received a José Iglesias bobblehead on a Sunday Kids Day a few years back, those treasured trinkets are now proudly displayed in their bedrooms.) Friday nights often feature post-game fireworks and sometimes special themes (like Star Wars Night or Christmas in July), which can add extra excitement for your family. Keep an eye on the Tigers Promotional Schedule when planning your game, it’s published before each season so you can pick a day that has perks your family will enjoy.
Chevy Sunday Kids Day (Why Sunday is Best!)
It’s worth emphasizing how much the Tigers put into making Sundays at Comerica Park a dream for kids. Nearly every Sunday home game is a “Kids Day,” meaning the team rolls out the red carpet for young fans: face-painting booths, roaming magicians and stilt-walkers on the concourse, meet-and-greets with PAWS the mascot, and free rides on the carousel and Ferris wheel for kids 14 and under. Often you’ll even find Tigers players signing autographs for kids before the game, typically two players will station themselves near Section 119 on Kids Day to sign for fans under 14 (when available). If your little one dreams of meeting a Tiger, this is a golden opportunity (bring something for them to sign, like a baseball or a cap, and get there early to line up). In short, if it fits your schedule, book a Sunday game. You’ll get the most family bang for your buck and your kids will have an absolute blast with all the extras.
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Detroit Tigers, Facebook
Before You Go: Essential Tips for a Stress-Free Game Day
Preparation is key when taking kids to a big event. Here are some pro tips from local parents and the Tigers organization to ensure your day goes smoothly:
- Download the MLB Ballpark App: Make your life easier by grabbing the free MLB app on your phone before you head out. The app lets you access your digital tickets and a Comerica Park map on the go, so you’re not fumbling with paper printouts at the gate. The app often has fun extras too, like check-in rewards or kids’ activities, and it will show you concession locations, bathroom maps, and more, super handy when a child urgently announces a bathroom need in the 5th inning!
- Comerica Park is Cashless: Leave the paper money at home, all concessions and vendors at Comerica Park accept cashless payment only (credit/debit cards or mobile pay). If you do bring cash, the stadium offers Cash-2-Card kiosks where you can quickly load cash onto a prepaid debit card at no fee. Make sure you have at least one working card on you so you’re not caught off guard when trying to pay for parking or a snack.
- Bag Policy – Pack Light: In recent years, security policies have tightened. Bags, purses and large clutches are prohibited from entry, so plan accordingly. The only exceptions are diaper bags and medical bags under 16″ x 16″ x 8″ in size (these will be inspected at the gate). If you have a baby, pack your diaper bag efficiently to meet the size rule, include only the necessities. You can bring a small transparent clutch or wallet (around 4″ x 6″) for personal items if needed. And here’s one more nuance: only plastic baby bottles are permitted (no glass). Bottom line: travel as light as possible. You don’t want to be turned away at the gate or forced to hike back to the car to drop off an oversized purse.
- Outside Food & Drink: Outside food is not allowed, so plan on enjoying the ballpark concessions. You can, however, bring one factory-sealed water bottle per person (up to 20 oz, and it must be plastic). This is great for staying hydrated on hot days without having to buy multiple bottled waters. Additionally, if you have an infant or toddler, you’re allowed to bring in formula, baby food, or snacks specifically for them (within reason, in your diaper bag). For everyone else, snacks need to be bought inside. Luckily, Comerica has plenty of kid-friendly treats (we’ll cover those soon). And don’t forget there are water refill stations around the park to top up your bottles for free.
- Strollers: Bringing a stroller for younger kids? Make it a collapsible umbrella-style stroller if possible. Small, foldable strollers are permitted and just need to go through security screening. Once inside, you can stash the folded stroller under your seat or against a wall, just ensure it’s not blocking anyone’s way. If you have a bulkier stroller that doesn’t fold compactly, you’ll be asked to check it at Guest Services near Section 131 for the game’s duration. (They give you a claim tag and you can retrieve it when you leave.) Tip from a local dad: if your child can walk part of the time, you might find you don’t need the stroller at all inside the park, especially if you plan to sit most of the game. But it can be a lifesaver for transporting little ones to and from the parking area, so do what’s right for you.
- Health & Safety: Comerica Park staff go out of their way to make the experience family-friendly and safe. One must-do for safety is to pick up an ID wristband for your child at Guest Services as soon as you arrive. These free wristbands let you write your child’s name and your seat location/contact info, so if you get separated, staff can quickly reunite you. (It’s a parent’s worst nightmare to lose sight of a child in a crowd, these wristbands provide huge peace of mind.) Also, familiarize yourself with the nearest First Aid station (located on the main concourse behind Section 140). For any medical issue or just a scrape on the knee, medical staff are on site to help. If your child has sensory sensitivities, be aware the game can get loud (especially if the Tigers hit a home run and the crowd goes wild with the sound system blasting!). Consider bringing ear protection (like earmuff-style noise reducers) for little ones who might be startled by big cheers or fireworks booms. You can also step out to the concourse or a quieter area if they need a break from the noise, the stadium’s wide concourses are great for taking a breather without leaving entirely.
- Comfort and Weather Prep: Bring a few creature comforts to keep everyone happy. On sunny days, sunblock, sunglasses, and hats are musts; there isn’t much shade in the stands until evening. If it’s a cooler night or early spring game, dress in layers and maybe pack a small blanket; Detroit’s April and even September games can get brisk. Some families also bring portable seat cushions or bleacher seats (the type that fold and have a back) for added comfort, since sitting on plastic stadium seats for hours can be hard on little ones (and parents!). These are allowed as long as they don’t have large storage pockets that violate the bag rule.
By checking these planning items off your list, you’ll set the stage for a fun, low-stress outing. Now, let’s dive into what awaits inside Comerica Park for you and your young Tigers fans!
If the forecast turns, here’s a go-to list of indoor kid favorites around Metro Detroit
Family Amenities at Comerica Park (Making Parents’ Lives Easier)
One of the reasons Comerica Park is beloved by Metro Detroit parents is the range of family amenities thoughtfully provided. Here’s what you can expect on-site to make your day comfortable and accommodating for all ages:
- Clean Restrooms + Changing Tables: You’ll never have to go far to find a restroom, and every single restroom (men’s and women’s) is equipped with a baby changing table. This is a huge relief when you’re juggling a diaper change; you won’t need to hunt around, just head to the nearest loo. There are also several family restrooms (sometimes called assist restrooms) located throughout the park, including in sections 119, 139, 210, 320, and 342. These are private, spacious restrooms great for taking a young child (or multiple kids) in with you, or for dads who might need to assist daughters and vice versa. They’re also handy for nursing or if you have a child with special needs who requires privacy.
- Nursing Rooms: Nursing moms, the Tigers have you covered. Comerica Park has dedicated nursing spaces so you can breastfeed or pump in a quiet, private environment. One nursing lounge is by Section 210 (upper concourse) and another pod is on the main concourse near Section 130 (close to Guest Services). These Mamava pods are secure, comfortable, and can be accessed by getting a code from Guest Services or via the Mamava app. They even have outlets if you need to plug in a pump. Many moms report that these pods are a game-changer; you can feed your baby in peace and then head right back to the fun.
- Booster Seats: If your kiddo needs a little height boost to see over the adults in front, you can borrow a booster seat at the Guest Services office (Section 131) for use during the game. These are first-come, first-served, but generally, there are plenty available. They’re essentially firm cushions that add a few inches of height and have secure sides so the child doesn’t slip off the stadium seat. It can make a big difference in their enjoyment (and prevents the “up and down” squirm if they can’t see well).
- Stroller Check: As mentioned earlier, large strollers can be checked at Guest Services. The staff there will tag your stroller and store it safely so it’s not clogging up the aisles. This service is free. Also, if during the game you decide you don’t need the stroller you brought in, you can still go drop it off at Guest Services anytime. They’re friendly and used to storing all sorts of items for guests.
- First Game Certificates: Are you celebrating a first Tigers game or a birthday/anniversary at the park? Don’t forget to grab a commemorative certificate – they’re free and make a wonderful keepsake. Just stop by Guest Services (Section 131, or the booths behind Sections 210 or 330) and let them know what you’re celebrating. They’ll give you an official printed certificate to mark the occasion, often with your child’s name on it for a first game. It’s a small touch that means a lot when you look back years later (“Hey, remember your first ballgame? Here’s the certificate from that day!”).
- Friendly Staff & Security: The employees at Comerica are known for being welcoming and helpful, many of them have been working Tigers games for years and genuinely enjoy seeing families have a good time. Don’t hesitate to ask an usher or staff member for help or information; whether you need the nearest bathroom, a microwave to warm a bottle (they can assist with that at certain concession stands or first aid), or you lost a stuffed toy (check lost-and-found at Guest Services), they are there to help. Additionally, security is ever-present but not intrusive. All guests pass through metal detectors at entry and bag checks, and inside the park there are security personnel and Detroit police ensuring a safe environment. This allows you to relax and focus on fun, knowing that the venue is secure.
In short, Comerica Park has done a lot to eliminate the usual stressors of taking kids to a big stadium. As one local parent put it: “The Tigers have basically thought of everything, from nursing pods to kid ID bracelets, to make Comerica as family-friendly as possible. It’s one of the reasons we keep going back; we know our kids are welcome there.”
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Detroit Tigers, Facebook
Fun and Games: Kid-Friendly Entertainment at the Ballpark
Alright, now for the reason your children will be grinning from ear to ear: all the fun stuff to do at Comerica Park besides watching baseball! The Tigers understand that younger kids might not stay riveted to every pitch, so the ballpark is loaded with activities and attractions to keep them engaged. Here’s how to make the most of the in-game entertainment:
- Meet PAWS, the Mascot: Detroit’s favorite tiger (aside from the actual players) is PAWS, the team’s lovable mascot. PAWS is a big, friendly tiger who wears number 00 and can be spotted roaming the stadium during the game, high-fiving fans and posing for pictures. Track him down for a photo with your kids; it’s often a highlight of their day. You might find PAWS doing silly dances on the dugout tops or leading cheers. Pro tip: if you want a guaranteed interaction, you can actually arrange an in-seat visit from PAWS for a special occasion (through the Tigers website, usually for a fee). But honestly, on most Kids Days, PAWS is so active around the concourse that you’ll likely bump into him naturally. Don’t be shy, he’s very approachable!
- Ride the Carousel and Ferris Wheel: Comerica Park famously features not one, but two carnival-style rides right inside the stadium. In the Big Cat Court (near Section 119) stands the Hi-Chew Carousel, a beautiful merry-go-round where the horses are actually tigers! There are 30 hand-painted tiger figures on this carousel, and kids of all ages absolutely love it. On the other side of the park, just behind Section 131 by the Brushfire Grill, is the Fly Ball Ferris Wheel, a 50-foot ferris wheel with gondolas shaped like giant baseballs that slowly spin riders up for a fun view. Rides cost $2 per person (you’ll need to use a card or get a token, since it’s cashless), but here’s the best part: on Sundays, kids 14 and under ride FREE on both the carousel and ferris wheel! You read that right: if it’s a Sunday Kids Day, let your little ones enjoy as many spins as they want at no charge. Expect a bit of a line for these attractions, especially mid-game; one insider tip from a Visit Detroit writer is to buy your carousel or ferris wheel tickets early (there’s usually a kiosk or attendant) so you’re ready to hop in line without delay. Or, even better, go for a ride before the game starts or in the early innings, lines tend to grow by the 5th or 6th inning once kids start getting the wiggles in their seats. Both rides are very safe and slow-moving, suitable even for toddlers (parents can stand next to their child on the carousel or ride in the ferris wheel gondola with them).
- Sunday Freebies: Face Paint, Magicians & More: We touched on this in the Sunday section, but it’s worth detailing the extras that happen on Chevy Sunday Kids Days. Near the main Comerica Entry and the Rocket Mortgage Entry gates, you’ll find face-painting stations where professionals will adorn kids’ faces with tiger whiskers, the Old English “D” logo, or whatever colorful design they fancy, and it’s free for kids on Sundays. Around the concourse you might encounter a stilt walker towering above the crowd or a roaming magician doing quick tricks to delight families. These roving entertainers usually appear a couple of hours before the game through a few innings in. Keep your eyes peeled, they’re hard to miss and add a festive carnival vibe to the ballpark. On some Sundays, the team also brings in additional fun like balloon animal artists or temporary tattoo stations. It truly becomes kids’ day at the park, so take advantage of all the extras your little ones can handle.
- Autograph Opportunities: For many kids (and let’s face it, adults too), meeting a player or getting an autograph can be an unforgettable thrill. Here’s how to maximize your chances: If you attend a game when gates open (90 minutes early), head down toward the lower box seats along the first base line (near the Tigers dugout). Often a few players will linger after batting practice to sign autographs for fans along the railing. Bring a Sharpie and something to sign (ball, hat, program) just in case. On Sundays specifically, as noted, there is usually a structured autograph session for kids at Section 119 with two players after the game, but this can vary, so listen for announcements or ask Guest Services when you arrive if any autograph sessions are scheduled. Another tip: sometimes visiting team players are more accessible for autographs near their dugout (along third base line) as that side can be a bit less crowded with seekers. Always be polite, say please and thank you, and understand if a player has to run, the opportunity is a privilege. If your child does score an autograph, snap a photo of that beaming smile, it’s a genuine Detroit souvenir money can’t buy!
- Run the Bases After the Game: If your kids still have energy after nine innings, let them channel it into a dash around the diamond. After every Sunday home game (weather permitting), kids ages 4-14 can run the bases on the field. This is one of the coolest experiences Comerica offers, imagine your child’s excitement getting to step onto the field where their heroes play! Here’s how it works: As the game winds down (around the 8th inning), one parent should scope out the line forming under the left field scoreboard, that’s where kids and parents queue up for “Kids Run the Bases”. Only kids can run (no adult runners), but parents/guardians can escort little ones to the field entry and then meet them at the exit by third base. The staff usually guides groups of kids onto the field in an orderly fashion. Each child gets to sprint (or jog, or walk in awe) from first base, to second, to third, and slide or run into home plate, often with PAWS cheering them on! The Tigers ask that you only take one quick photo on the field and then exit to keep it moving. It’s a brief moment but trust us, kids feel like real Tigers out there. Be prepared: the line can be long and it may take 20-30 minutes for your turn, but it’s absolutely worth it. (And if your kids are too young to run alone, you can carry them or run alongside up until the field entry, but typically 3 and under might not qualify. In that case, maybe big sibling runs while you hold little sibling at the sideline.)
- Detroit Tigers Kids Club: If your family might attend multiple games or you have a young super-fan at home, consider joining the Detroit Tigers Kids Club. It’s a membership program (around $25-$30 fee) that gives kids exclusive Tigers swag and VIP opportunities. In 2025, for instance, the Kids Club membership (which often sells out each year) included cool gear like a Tigers jersey or cap, a Kids Club passport for stamping at each game, invites to special events (like a carnival day with Tigers players), and even a birthday card from PAWS. You can sign up online or at the Kids Club kiosk at Section 119 during games. One of the neat perks is that members sometimes get front-of-line access for run the bases or autographs on Kids Day, plus, kids just feel special wearing their official Kids Club lanyard to the game. If you go this route, try to sign up before the season or early in the year, as memberships can sell out (there’s even a waitlist at times). It’s a fun way to make your child feel like an All-Star fan.
- Scoreboard Messages: Want to give your child (or any family member) a shout-out on the big screen? Comerica Park offers scoreboard message packages. For a fee (starting around $75) you can arrange to have a special message displayed on the giant scoreboard, for example, “Happy 8th Birthday, Aiden!” or “Welcome to your first Tigers game, Miller family!”, during a certain inning. This comes with a pro tip: if you do this, have your camera ready during the designated inning so you can snap a photo of the scoreboard when your message appears (they usually also give you a digital copy afterward). The proceeds from these messages often go to the Tigers Foundation charity, so it’s for a good cause too. It’s a splurge, but imagine the delight on your child’s face when they see their name up in lights at Comerica.
- Ballpark Snacks and Treats: Kids live for the snacks, right? Luckily, the ballpark concession experience is half the fun. Comerica Park has Big Cat Court, a food court area (by Section 119) that is a one-stop-shop for kid favorites. Here you’ll find Little Caesars pizza (a Detroit staple, fun fact: the Tigers’ late owner Mike Ilitch founded Little Caesars, hence its strong presence at the park), old-fashioned burgers and fries, Mexican fare, Mediterranean wraps, elephant ears (sweet fried dough, a must-try!), ice cream, and more. Basically, whatever your picky eater or adventurous snacker might want, you can likely find it in Big Cat Court. There are also classic hot dog stands and pretzel kiosks galore, you can’t go wrong with a ballpark frank and a soft pretzel with cheese. If you want a true Detroit experience, see if the National Coney Island stand is open – nothing says Detroit like a Coney Dog (a beef hot dog slathered in chili, mustard, and onions). Yes, you can get a Coney at the ballgame! For dessert, beyond ice cream, look for Dippin’ Dots (the “ice cream of the future” that kids love) or slushies in souvenir cups. One tip: to save a bit, you can get a “Kids Value Meal” at certain stands, often a smaller hot dog, a small bag of chips, and a drink for a bundled price. Portions at Comerica are generous, so one adult combo meal can sometimes satisfy two young kids. And don’t forget to hydrate, if it’s a hot day, lemonade, water, or iced soda will keep everyone in good spirits. As a Metro Detroit parent, one of my personal rituals is getting my kids a dish of soft serve ice cream that comes in a little Tigers helmet cup, they enjoy the treat and then have a cool keepsake to bring home (we’ve accumulated a rainbow of little helmet bowls over the years).
- Sensory Fun: There are some great visual and interactive elements around the park. Check out the huge tiger statues outside the stadium, there are a few (including two massive ones at the main gate) that make for perfect family photo ops. Inside, behind center field, you’ll notice the beautiful water fountains and light displays. Whenever a Tigers player belts a home run, these fountains shoot water high into the air in celebration. Kids love watching for the fountains to erupt (and at night games, they light up in sync with music, quite a show). Also keep an eye on the scoreboard between innings: Comerica’s big screen often runs fun fan cams (your child might get on camera doing the floss dance or flexing their muscles on the “strong kid cam”) and interactive games like shell games or trivia where sections compete. It’s all in good fun and helps involve younger fans in the action. By the way, if your child has a birthday or special occasion, you can sometimes notify the ushers or the Kids Club table; occasionally, they’ll do a quick PA announcement or song for birthdays (this is separate from the paid scoreboard message, more of a general shout-out if multiple kids share a day).
In short, Comerica Park is like a mini amusement park and county fair wrapped around a baseball diamond. Smart parents mix in these activities throughout the game to keep the kids happy: maybe watch an inning, then take a break for a carousel ride, then another inning or two followed by a snack run, etc. By the end of the day, your children might be exhausted, but they’ll also be completely thrilled by the experience. Don’t be surprised if the car ride home is filled with excited chatter about “when can we go back?”
For a current, section-by-section food cheat sheet inside Comerica Park, see our dining guide
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Detroit Tigers, Facebook
After the Game: Navigating Post-Game and Exploring Downtown
When the final out is called (or the fireworks fade away on a Friday night), it’s time to head out, but the adventure doesn’t necessarily end there. A few post-game pointers from our local perspective:
- Be Patient Exiting: With tens of thousands of fans all leaving at once, there will be some congestion. Hold your children’s hands and stick together in the exiting crowd. It’s a good idea to designate a meeting spot outside the park ahead of time (like “we’ll all meet by the big Tiger statue at Gate A if we get separated”) as an extra safety measure. Often, we locals will linger a few extra minutes at our seats, savoring the afterglow and letting the crowd thin slightly. If you’re not in a rush, this can make your exit less hectic. Enjoy the moment, take that last family selfie in the stands or let the kids finish their popcorn as people file out.
- Souvenir Shop Stop: If you promised any souvenirs from the D Shop (the official team store attached to Comerica), post-game can be a convenient time to pop in. The store is less crowded after the game than before or during. It’s located near the main entrance on Witherell Street. Whether it’s a Tigers cap for dad, a plush PAWS for the little one, or a “My First Tigers Game” onesie for the baby, you’ll find it there. Keep in mind the store, like the park, is cashless too. Also, the vendors outside the stadium often sell slightly more affordable gear (T-shirts, pennants, etc.). Browsing those street stands on the way to the car can be fun; just use your judgment on quality.
- Celebrate (Or Console) with a Treat: Win or lose, it’s always fun to grab a treat after the game. You’re downtown, so why not take advantage? If it’s not too late and the kids are still awake, consider walking a few blocks to Lafayette or American Coney Island (the two legendary 24-hour hot dog joints) for a classic Detroit coney dog or chili cheese fries, a messy but memorable late-night snack. Alternatively, head to Greektown (a 10-minute walk or short People Mover ride) where you can get delicious bakery sweets like baklava or loukoumades (honey balls) at places like Astoria Pastry Shop. Some families stop by Campus Martius Park, especially if it’s a summer evening, the kids can run on the grass or splash in the fountain if it’s still on, and you can unwind for a bit until traffic eases. For a quieter option, even grabbing a milkshake at the drive-thru on the ride home (there’s a famous Mickey’s Dairy Twist in southwest Detroit or plenty of options in the suburbs you’ll pass) can be a nice capstone to the day.
- Traffic Considerations: If you parked close, expect some gridlock immediately after the game. Sometimes taking a longer walk to a farther parking spot (or to a People Mover station to loop around) means you can avoid the worst of the jam. Detroit police usually direct traffic at key intersections; be patient and follow their cues. If your kids are older and it was a day game, you might even consider hanging around downtown for dinner to avoid rush hour, there are family-friendly eateries aplenty (from PizzaPapalis for deep-dish pizza to Buddy’s Pizza in Midtown a short drive away, or Pegasus in Greektown for Greek cuisine). Downtown Detroit is quite lively these days, and many Tigers game days feel like a community festival, so it can be fun to be part of that street buzz a bit longer if the kids can handle it.
Want to make a whole day of it downtown with the kids? Check out our family-friendly picks just steps from the ballpark
Final Thoughts: A Home Run for Family Fun
Taking the kids out to a Detroit Tigers game is truly one of those priceless experiences that mixes fun, community, and a dash of Detroit’s storied history. You’ll leave with ketchup stains on shirts, maybe a sunburn or a new foam finger, and definitely a camera roll full of big smiles. More importantly, you’ll come away with that warm feeling of having shared something special, a day when your family became part of the fabric of the city’s tradition, cheering on the Tigers alongside thousands of fellow fans. In Metro Detroit, these are the moments that bond us as neighbors and sports lovers. It’s why many of us who grew up here are now creating new memories with our own children in the very same stands.
As a lifelong Michigander and local real estate expert, I can confidently say that community experiences like Tigers games are a huge part of what makes Metro Detroit a wonderful place to raise a family. It’s not just about one afternoon at the ballpark, it’s about belonging to a region where neighbors chat in the stands like old friends, kids feel safe and welcome in big public spaces, and traditions are passed down like treasure. Whether you’re a Detroit native or new to the area, dive into these local adventures headfirst.
If you’re eager to explore more of what Metro Detroit has to offer – from the best family outings to the right neighborhoods that put you close to the action, we invite you to reach out and connect. The Perna Team is here as a friendly resource, ready to share insider knowledge on everything from community hotspots to finding your dream home in the Detroit area. Think of us as your neighbor who always knows a bit about everything local. Planning your next family day or considering making Metro Detroit your long-term home? Contact The Perna Team for personalized recommendations and expert advice. We’re passionate about this community and love helping families like yours make the most of it. Until then, see you at the ballgame, and Go Tigers!
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