Attending a game or concert should be the highlight of your week—not a nightmare of gridlocked traffic, endless circling, or surprise parking fees. Stadiums and arenas are designed to handle tens of thousands of people—but often with limited, high-demand parking. If you’re not prepared, you could end up late, overcharged, or parking a mile away.
Whether you’re heading to a sold-out show or a major playoff game, here are practical event parking tips that save you time, money, and stress.
Book Parking in Advance (Yes, Even for Smaller Events)
Don’t wait until you get there to find parking. Apps like SpotHero, ParkWhiz, and Way let you reserve event parking near major venues in advance—often at a lower rate than drive-up prices. You’ll know where you’re going, how much it’ll cost, and won’t have to fight for a spot when gates open.
You can also filter lots by distance, covered parking, and tailgating options depending on the venue.
Arrive Early, Leave Late
Parking lots near stadiums often open 2–3 hours before an event. Arriving early ensures better spot selection and less congestion. Plus, you can avoid the pressure of last-minute arrivals, security lines, and long walks. On the flip side, staying 15–30 minutes after the event (especially for concerts) can help you bypass the initial flood of departing vehicles.
Use Official Venue Maps
Most stadiums and arenas provide downloadable parking maps on their websites. These show official lots, nearby streets, ADA access points, and designated ride-share zones.
Check in advance for which lots are cashless, reserved, or pre-paid only.
Scout Satellite Lots and Private Garages Nearby
If the official lots are sold out or overpriced, look for nearby businesses, churches, or private garages offering event parking. These options are often cheaper and a short walk away. Just be sure they’re reputable and have posted pricing to avoid bait-and-switch tactics.
Watch for Street Closure Notices and Resident-Only Zones
Event days can trigger temporary parking restrictions, especially in residential areas around stadiums. Many cities post tow-away or resident-permit-only signs that only apply during game times or concerts. Read all signage carefully—and if in doubt, park elsewhere.
Don’t Overpay for Ride-Share Drop-Offs
Services like Uber and Lyft charge surge pricing around large events, sometimes tripling your fare. If you live nearby or want to avoid the surge, consider driving part of the way and parking near a transit line or walkable zone. This hybrid approach gives you flexibility without the last-minute price spike.
Stack Your Savings with Cashback Apps
If you’re paying for parking online or through a major service, don’t forget you can stack savings with cashback apps. Buy Fluz gift cards or search for gift cards or merchants like Park ’N Fly, and earn cashback instantly. It’s especially helpful if you attend events often—every few dollars back adds up over a season.
