Minute Maid Park is one of the 7 Baseball Stadiums with Retractable floors. For people heading to watch Astros games, knowing the recent Minute Maid Park bag policy is crucial unless you’ve got a club seat. According to the MLB guidelines, you can get access to the ballpark with most bags if the size is less than 16 x 16 x 8 inches.
“Minute Maid stadium doesn’t allow luggage or backpacks or any bags that feature multiple compartments.“
Their official policy book is quite long to give you a headache. But having an idea about the rules will help you understand the deals, especially if you don’t want to get kicked out.
In this post, I’m gonna share all the allowed bag types and sizes, prohibited items, parking tips, food guides, etc. So get ready to enjoy the game without any bag-related worries – let’s dive in!
Related: What Are The Best Seats At A Baseball Game
Minute Maid Park Bag Policy: Type and Size Restrictions for Bags
The bag policy at Minute Maid Park only allows 1 bag per attendance. There are also regulations that you need to follow regarding bag types and sizes.
You can access the stadium with different types of bags, including clear plastic, vinyl, or PVC bags. Check out more below:
Types of Allowed Bags
Unlike other ballparks, Minute Maid Park allows visitors to carry various bag types, including;
- Stadium Approved Clear Plastic Bags for carrying personal items and foods, up to 1 gallon in size.
- Drawstring Bags are allowed but they shouldn’t have more than one compartment.
- Purse Bags that are made out of leather, nylon, straw, canvas, etc.
- Saddlebags are permitted so that you can carry your items when visiting Minute Maid Park on your bicycle.
- Satchel Bags or messenger bags can have their places inside the ballpark. There shouldn’t be more than one flap. And it shouldn’t have multiple pockets.
- Envelope Clutches with a single flap and single pocket are allowed in the stadium.
- Doctor or Medical Bags that have MLB bag size restrictions can be carried inside the venue.
- Diaper Bag policy allow carrying required items if you’ve got kids at the party.
- Soft-sided Coolers are allowed as long as the size is equal to or less than 16 x 16 x 8 inches.
Permitted Bag Size
For the above bags, Minute Maid Park has Major League Baseball size restrictions. More specifically, your bag shouldn’t exceed 16 x 16 x 8 inches in dimensions.
Please note that, even though you’ve got a medical bag or diaper bag, you’ve to go through the bag security check at all gates.
Prohibited Bags in Minute Maid Park
Sorry to burst your bubble, but not all bags are allowed in the park. Minute Maid Park has a list of prohibited bags.
So, leave your bags at home if that falls under any of the below criteria. Trust me, you don’t want to find yourself in a fight with one of the rigid guards!
- Any bag that’s larger than 16 x 16 x 8 inches in dimension isn’t allowed inside the ballpark.
- Backpacks that have multi-compartment or multiple pockets
- Duffel Bags of any size.
- Drawstring bags that have more than one compartment.
- Styrofoam or hard-sided coolers aren’t permitted.
- Drone bags aren’t allowed.
- Costume bags aren’t permissible
- Food bags or containers that aren’t sealed and larger than 1-gallon in size.
- Luggage of all sorts aren’t allowed.
- Bags carrying hoverboards, skateboards, roller skates/shoes. etc.
- Tripod bags aren’t allowed.
Exceptions of Bag Restriction
As mentioned earlier, certain items are exempt from the bag restriction at Minute Maid Park. For example, you can get access to medical bags or equipment and diaper bags that accompany infants and young children.
“But the medical bags or diaper bags shouldn’t be bigger than 16 x 16 x 8 inches.“
Flexibility for Guests with Disabilities
Likewise, Minute Maid Park allows all facilities for disabled guests, aligning with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) for their well-being.
You can carry all the required stuff inside your bag for the companion. Also, ask for additional supports that are available in the venue.
“Please note that the items for disabled people are subject to additional security screening upon entry, so plan accordingly!”
Assistive Listening Devices (ALD): Minute Maid Park offers Assistive Listening Devices (ALDs) to support fans with hearing and visual impairments. These special devices help fans keep up with announcements and commentary by transmitting public address system comments. Fans can find the Fan Accommodations area at Section 112 on the concourse.
Captioning Board: They have installed a special board above the Mezzanine level in Right Field. This board shows important information like the announcer’s comments and other game details.
Telephone Display Devices (TDD): Fan Accommodations Center in Section 112 has Telephone Display Devices that can help disabled people communicate better. These special phones have text capabilities. So, there’s no communication barrier!
Wheelchair Service: Need a wheelchair seat, no worries! The Houston Astros offer a kind wheelchair service during all their home games. This service is also available when you’re ready to leave and need help reaching the exit.
Just let their ticket representative know your need when you’re buying tickets and they’ll make sure you’re all set. Give them a call at (713) 259 8700. They’ll be happy to help you out!
Bag Entry Process inside the Ballpark
Before entering the ballpark, all bags brought by fans are subject to inspection by security personnel. This entry process helps to identify any prohibited items or potential security threats.
Manual Screening
You’ll be directed to designated bag inspection areas. Here, security personnel will ask you to open bags and visually inspect the contents.
They will be looking for any items that are not allowed inside the stadium, such as weapons, outside food and drinks, or other prohibited items.
Metal Detectors
To speed up the process, MMP stadium encourages fans to only bring necessary items in clear bags or small purses so that the security personnel can perform an easier and quicker visual inspection.
If your bag is too large, they will check it via both a handheld metal detector and an X-ray machine.
List of Prohibited Items inside the Park
In preparation for your visit to the ballpark, I’d like to highlight a list of prohibited items you should be aware of. You can’t carry these items inside the area.
| List of Prohibited Items at Minute Maid Park |
| Aerosol containers |
| Alcoholic beverages |
| Except for service animals, animals |
| Baseball bats and equipment |
| Unsealed beverages exceeding 1 liter |
| Cameras with lenses over 8 inches |
| Except for permitted soft-sided coolers, coolers |
| Costumes and masks |
| Unmanned aerial vehicles (drones) |
| Fireworks and pyrotechnics |
| Hoverboards and personal recreational devices |
| Illicit substances |
| Inflatable objects (beach balls, balloons) |
| Laser pointers |
| Noise Making devices (whistles, bells) |
| Poles or sticks (flagpoles, broom handles) |
| Skateboards, roller skates, bicycles, wagons |
| Tripods, bipods, monopods |
| Weapons (firearms, knives, mace) |
| Inappropriate or indecent clothing |
| Bags larger than 16” x 16” x 8” |
| Exceptions: diaper bags, medical bags |
| Banners or signs not conforming to policy |
| Folding chairs (folding cane seats allowed) |
| Outside food exceeding 1 gallon in size |
| Large or bulky luggage |
| Items deemed unsuitable, unsafe, or unsupportive of the spirit of baseball. |
What to Do If Your Bag is Too Big: Bag Storage Options
If your bag is too big to comply with the Minute Maid Park Bag Policy, you’ve to rent a 3rd party bag storage facility near the ballpark.
“You can’t ask security personnel to hold your illegal bag. Minute Maid Park doesn’t allow storage facilities if your bag doesn’t pass their security measurements.”
Radical Storage: From luggage to backpacks, you store anything in Radical Storage facilities. They charge you $5 a day. Just download their app and follow the procedure.
Bounce: The platform has a massive list of bag lockers in around 10,000+ locations. And it also has storage options around Minute Maid Park. For each day, they will charge $5.90.
Lost and Found: What to Do if Your Bag is Lost Inside the Ballpark?
If you lose your bag at Minute Maid Park, immediately reach the Fan Accommodations Centers. It opens for all Astros games.
The staff at these centers are well-trained in handling lost items. They will ask you for details about your bag, such as its color, size, and any unique characteristics that could help with identification.
Although there’s no guarantee of retrieval, many bags have been successfully given back to their owners.
“That’s why it’s always wise if you can pick a picture of your luggage beforehand. This helps a lot in such situations“
Food and Beverage Options and Policy at Minute Maid Park
Enjoy a wide selection of food options and beverages inside Minute Maid Park, including the exclusive Honda Club Level and Jim Beam Bourbon Bar. Learn about the park’s policies on alcohol consumption, smoking, and more below!
Food and Drink Policy
Visitors attending Houston Astros games are permitted to bring their food and bottled water. However, this policy doesn’t apply to events, like concerts, tours, or corporate functions held at the Minute Maid Park.
- Guests can bring their snacks as long as they are placed inside a clear plastic bag. The bag shouldn’t be larger than 1 gallon in size.
- Each guest is limited to bringing 1 food bag.
- Regarding water, guests are allowed to bring a factory-sealed plastic water bottle. The size of the bottle shouldn’t exceed 1 liter.
- Each guest can only bring 1 plastic water bottle.
Please note again that any items not meeting the specified guidelines won’t be safeguarded or stored by the staff.
Alcohol and Illegal Drug Policy
The ballpark alcohol policy is somewhat mixed with no and yes.
No for bringing in outside alcoholic beverages. And yes as you can buy alcoholic drinks inside the venue.
“For instance, you can grab your drinks from 19th Hole and Honda Club stores, which are located respectively at Section 156 and Section 211.”
However, there’s no permission granted for illegal drugs whether buying inside or outside the venue.
Smoking Policy
You can’t smoke in any area of Minute Maid Park. There’s no designated smoking areas either.
This policy includes traditional cigarettes as well as electronic cigarettes and other smoking devices and smokeless tobacco.
Food Information and Guide Including Available Restaurants
Minute Maid Park has a hell load of delicious foods. Check out the complete list of restaurants, locations, and food menu:
Food Options within Stadium
| Restaurant Names | Location | Available Foods |
| 19th Hole | Sec. 156 | Seltzers, beers, wines, healthy foods, game day snacks, candy |
| Battered-Up | Sec. 116 | Fried foods, chicken tenders, corn dog, funnel cakes, deep-fried treats |
| Butcher | Sec. 116, 224 | Smoked meats, sandwiches, loaded baked potatoes, classic sides |
| Chick-fil-A | Sec. 106, 122, 151, 413, 427, 431 | Sandwiches, wraps, chips, cookies, fruit cups |
| Cookies and Creamery | Sec. 106, 128, 153, 251, 411, 429 | Blue Bell ice cream, Astros Souvenir Helmet |
| Dippin Dots & Ice Cream Pint Express | Sec. 105, 134, 156, 405, 424 | Ice cream, Blue Bell pints |
| Elote and Pupusas | Sec. 124 | Elote, pupusas, paletas, cookies |
| El Tiempo Margarita Bar | Sec. 156 | Margaritas, chips with salsa or queso |
| H-Town Grill | Sec. 109, 125, 308 | Skewers, nachos, hot dogs, chicken tenders, burgers, sausages, fries |
| Healthy Food Options | Various | Beyond Burger, salads, hummus, fruit options |
| Home & Away | Sec. 113, 129, 156, 427 | Hot dogs, sausages, nachos, pretzels, loaded footlong hot dogs |
| Karbach Bar | Sec. 405 | Draft beer from Karbach Brewery |
| Kickin Nachos | Sec. 111, 126, 408 | Chicken & pork carnitas nachos |
| Killen’s BBQ | Sec. 434 | Southern BBQ, famous brisket |
| La Stella Trattoria | Sec. 420 | Italian subs, meatball, chicken parmesan, wine |
| Loaded Mac N Chas | Sec. 154 | Mac and cheese with brisket, cheddar, BBQ sauce |
| Love Street Bar | Sec. 119 | Beers, cocktails, sodas, water, snacks |
| Maui Wowi | Sec. 106, 134, 429 | Tropical smoothies with optional spirits |
| Micheladas Cart | Sec. 128 | Micheladas, Mexican beers, fruit with Tajin, chamoy, gummies |
| Modelo Bar | Sec. 427 | Premium and domestic beers |
| Papa John’s Pizza | Sec. 125, 153, 411, 429, Walk Thru Bru at 416 | Pepperoni or cheese personal pizzas |
| Peaux Boys | Sec. 410 | Shrimp or catfish po’boys, Cajun fries |
| Pluckers Wing Bar | Sec. 156 | Pluckers wings |
| Quesadilla Cart | Sec. 132 | Cheese, chicken, or fajita beef quesadillas |
| Shake Shack | Sec. 157 | Burgers, fries, hot dogs, frozen custards |
| Slovacek’s Sausage Carts | Sec. 154, 431 | Specialty sausages, cold beverages |
| Spud House | Sec. 154 | Loaded baked potato with brisket or chicken |
| St. Arnold’s Bar | Sec. 104 | Beers from St. Arnold Brewery |
| Sunrise BBQ | Sec. 406 | Chopped beef or turkey sandwiches, BBQ baked potatoes |
| Taqueria Arandas | Sec. 154, 420 | Queso, taquitos, quesadillas, tres leches |
| Texas Legend Grill | Sec. 134 | Prime burgers, chicken tenders, fries |
| TLC Tender Love and Chicken | Sec. 418 | Chicken tender baskets with sauces |
| Walk Thru Bru | Various | Premium beers on tap or in cans |
| Ziegenbock Bar | Sec. 322 | Premium and domestic beers |
Honda Club Level
When visiting the baseball stadium, make sure to check out the Honda Club Level. The exclusive suite is basically for Honda drivers, offers a wide range of amenities and features.
There are water fountains, nursing mothers accommodations, nearby premium stores such as 19th Hole inside the zone.
To get access to the suite, first, you’ve to give them your key at Section 205. The staff will then guide you to the level.
Jim Beam Bourbon Bar
Another great place to hop in is the Jim Beam Bourbon bar, located at Section 206 of the stadium.
It offers premium seating options to enjoy the World Series while indulging in delicious food and non-alcoholic beverages.
This establishment is affiliated with Jim Beam, a known bourbon brand recognized for its beverages.
Before you go to the bar I suggest reviewing their menu choices and prices in advance so you can plan your visit accordingly.
Parking Information and Fees
If you’re planning to go to Minute Maid Park, you’re in luck because there are 25,000 parking spaces within a half-mile radius of the area.
The parking fee is $9 in the Diamond Lot (for prepaid parking). And for in-prompt booking, you’ve to pay $10.
They also have a number of parking spaces for individuals with disabilities. Additionally, there are plenty of on-street parking options as well.
Oh, and a heads up; all the parking lots owned by the Astros don’t accept cash payments so make sure to keep your bills and coins safely tucked away.
If you want, you can secure a full-season parking package by contacting them at 713 259 8700.
And if you prefer a game-by-game basis, you can purchase individual game parking passes for Lot C when you buy your tickets.
For people rolling in with charter or school buses, there’s designated parking available on Bastrop Street, which costs $59.
Bicycle Parking
Limited bicycle parking is available near the Left and Center Field Gates along Crawford Street and by the Right Field Gate near Preston Street.
These designated areas provide a safe and convenient place for any attendance to park their bicycles.
Transportation Alternatives
There are transportation options for reaching Minute Maid Park if you don’t have your own vehicle. Here are some choices you can consider;
Metro Rail: You can use the metro rail system to travel to the stadium. The rail station is near the entrance of the park, making it easy for fans to access.
Bus Services: Public bus services from multiple routes are also available close to the stadium location.
Rideshare Services: If you prefer rideshare services like Uber or Lyft you can easily arrange for pick-up and drop-off at designated areas near the area.
Tailgate Parties
The baseball ballpark offers a designated area called the 19th Hole for tailgate parties. So, if you’re planning to hang out with your friends and fellow fans before the game of the World Series, this is a great place to start.
At the 19th Hole, you can find a wide selection of items for purchase, including beverages, snacks, candy, salads, and Astros souvenirs.
“If you’re looking to commemorate the Astrodome’ World Championships, there’s even a Jostens jewelry store where you can buy championship jewelry. Just keep in mind that only credit or debit cards are accepted at the 19th Hole.”
Exit and Re-entry Policy
Once you’re inside Minute Maid stadium it’s crucial to keep in mind that the park strictly enforces its exit and re-entry policy.
This implies that once you’ve entered the premises and gone through the scanning process you won’t be permitted to leave and then return.
Other Rules and Regulations
In addition to the bag policy, there are several other rules and regulations that you should be aware of before your visit. A few important notes are:
Pet and Animals
You can’t expect access with pets, except for service animals in the stadium’s property. It’s fair as sometimes pets can behave annoying, which will bother you and others too.
If you’ve got a service animal accompanying you, please be aware that they must be under your control at all times and follow all applicable laws and regulations.
Reverse ATMs and Credit Card Policy
People don’t require cash for purchases inside the venue. All of the money exchange places accept VISA, American Express, Discover, and MasterCard, making it easy to pay for everything.
Also, don’t worry if you need cash!
There are Amegy Bank-operated ATMs located at Section 107 and 131.
If you want to deposit your cash into cards, there are reverse ATMs available at Sections 108, 218, 315, and near the 19th Hole.
Autographs Policy
Getting autographs from your favorite players is possible at Minute Maid Park. But they change the regulations and process for autographs each season or sometimes games to ensure safety for both fans and players.
So it’ll be better if you can reach out to the ballpark or stadium staff to find out about any updated rules or procedures regarding player interactions during this period.
Babies/Toddlers Tickets
Children who are 2 years old or younger don’t need tickets to attend Astros games at Minute Maid Park. They can simply sit on the lap of an adult.
Moreover, there are 16 family restrooms spread across the stadium each equipped with baby changing tables.
Additionally, if you’re a nursing mother, find your comfort in the Fan Accommodations Booth. It’s located at Section 323.
Banners
Minute Maid Park welcomes banners showing support for their favorite teams, players or are related to baseball.
- However, guests can’t carry banners or signs bigger than 3 x 2 inches in dimension.
- You’ve to make sure your banners don’t interfere with the visibility of other guests.
- They don’t allow obscene banners inside the ballpark.
- Banners are only subjected to display during the live games.
Costumes/Costume Masks
I want to remind you again that you can’t get access to the stadium with costumes and costume masks.
The Houston Astros maintain a zero-tolerance policy for violations of the Guest Code of Conduct. Violating this policy will result in an instant kick-out from the venue.
Lost Guests
If you get separated from your party, you should ask for help from their dedicated Lost and Found service.
The friendly staff will assist you in reuniting with your partner or kid.
Roof Information
Yup, the baseball ballpark features a retractable roof. It spans over 6 acres and can open or close in just 12-20 minutes, providing flexibility to accommodate different weather conditions.
So, whether it’s a sunny day or there’s a chance of rain, you can rest assured about comfort.
Strollers for Kids
If you’re planning to bring your little one along, you’ll be glad to know that strollers are allowed inside the ballpark.
You can store the stroller in the Fan Accommodations Center at Section 112 and Section 323.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do bags have to be clear at Minute Maid Park?
There is no restriction that you’ve to carry clear bags at Minute Maid stadium. Most bags are allowed as long as it’s equal or smaller than 16 x 16 x 8 inches in dimension.
Can you take a glove to Minute Maid stadium?
Yes, taking gloves to Minute Maid Park is allowed. So, if you’re hoping to catch a ball and make another history, go break-free.
How much can Minute Maid Park hold?
According to Astro’s official documentation, Minute Maid Park can hold up to 41,168 people with their seating capacity. Among them, 5,197 seats are marked as Club seats and 63 as luxury seats.
What do you wear to the Astros game?
Like most Astros fans, you can wear baseball caps, t-shirts, and shorts during the warm season. You can also try to blend with the Astros by wearing navy-blue, orange, and white combinations in your outfit.
What time do The gates open at Minute Maid Park today?
Minute Maid ballpark opens 2 hours before the day-game starts. If there’s any possible delay they will let you know.
Conclusion
Minute Maid Park bag policy is all about ensuring the safety and security of all visitors. If compared to other baseball stadiums, they offer more flexibility for bag size and variations.
The recommended size (16 x 16 x 8 inches) is also suitable for settling most visitors’ needs.
As they strongly follow their policy, I suggest, avoiding picking anything that’s contradictory to their rules.
If you liked this post, make sure to share this with your friends who are planning to visit the ballpark recently.
Hello everyone. My name is Jason Butler, and I live in California, America. I was a professional AAA Minor League Baseball player. I lost my chance of playing MLB for injury issues, but I did not lose my love for baseball. I attended the coaching training program and am now working as a coach in a small school in San Diego.
I always love to share my experience and knowledge if that can help you. Play baseball, and stay fit.