How to Get to the Memphis Redbirds Game

The Memphis Redbirds are the Triple-A affiliate of the St. Louis Cardinals and one of the most beloved minor league baseball teams in the Southeast. Playing their home games at AutoZone Park in downtown Memphis, Tennessee, the Redbirds offer an unforgettable game-day experience with affordable tickets, family-friendly entertainment, and a vibrant atmosphere that captures the spirit of America’s pastime. Whether you’re a lifelong baseball fan, a first-time visitor to Memphis, or a local looking for a fun night out, knowing how to get to the Memphis Redbirds game efficiently and comfortably can significantly enhance your experience. This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step breakdown of every transportation option, parking strategy, public transit route, and insider tip to ensure you arrive at AutoZone Park on time, stress-free, and ready to cheer on the team.

Step-by-Step Guide

Getting to the Memphis Redbirds game involves more than just typing “AutoZone Park” into a GPS. The downtown Memphis area experiences increased traffic on game days, and parking can be competitive without proper planning. Below is a detailed, chronological guide to help you navigate every phase of your journey—from planning your route to walking into the ballpark.

1. Confirm the Game Schedule and Start Time

Before you leave your home, always verify the game’s start time. Redbirds games typically begin at 6:30 p.m. on weekdays and 7:05 p.m. on weekends, but exceptions occur for holidays, special events, or televised broadcasts. Visit the official Memphis Redbirds website (memphisredbirds.com) or check their verified social media channels for real-time updates. Game times may shift due to weather delays, television scheduling, or doubleheaders. Confirming this upfront prevents unnecessary stress and ensures you arrive with ample time to park, enter the venue, and find your seat.

2. Choose Your Transportation Method

Your transportation choice depends on your location, budget, group size, and personal preferences. Below are the five most common and reliable methods to reach AutoZone Park.

Option A: Driving and Parking

Driving remains the most popular method for attending Redbirds games. AutoZone Park is located at 250 South Main Street, Memphis, TN 38103, in the heart of downtown. There are several parking options nearby:

• AutoZone Park Garage: The official ballpark garage offers convenient, covered parking directly adjacent to the stadium. It fills up quickly, especially for weekend games and promotions. Rates typically range from $10–$15 per vehicle.
• Surface Lots: Multiple privately operated lots surround the ballpark, including those on South 2nd Street, South 3rd Street, and the corner of South Main and Union Avenue. These often cost $5–$12 and may offer early-bird discounts if you arrive before 4:30 p.m.
• Street Parking: Limited metered parking is available on surrounding streets. Pay attention to signage—many spaces are restricted during game hours (typically 3 p.m. to 11 p.m.). Avoid parking on side streets near residential zones, as towing is common.
• Adjacent Parking Structures: The Memphis Convention Center garage, the FedExForum garage, and the City Hall garage are all within a 10-minute walk and often have open spaces even when the ballpark lot is full.

Pro Tip: Arrive at least 90 minutes before first pitch if you plan to drive. Traffic on South Main Street and the I-40/I-240 interchange ramps increases significantly after 4 p.m. on game days. Use Google Maps or Waze to monitor live traffic conditions and consider taking alternate routes like Poplar Avenue or the I-240 loop.

Option B: Public Transit – MATA Bus System

Memphis Area Transit Authority (MATA) provides a cost-effective and eco-friendly option for game attendees. The MATA bus system operates several routes that stop within walking distance of AutoZone Park:

• Route 1 (Main Street): Runs along South Main Street, stopping directly in front of the ballpark. This is the most convenient option.
• Route 2 (Union Avenue): Stops at the intersection of Union and 3rd Street—about a 7-minute walk to the ballpark.
• Route 10 (Lamar Avenue): Connects the western suburbs and drops off at the corner of South 2nd and Main.

On game days, MATA often runs extended hours and adds extra buses. Fares are $1.75 per ride, and transfers are free within two hours. Purchase your fare using the MATA mobile app or exact change on the bus. Note that MATA does not accept cash at the ballpark entrance—buy your ticket before boarding.

Pro Tip: Download the MATA app for real-time bus tracking. Enter “AutoZone Park” as your destination to see the next arrival time. Avoid boarding at the last minute—buses can get crowded on game nights.

Option C: Rideshare Services – Uber and Lyft

Rideshare services are ideal for those who want to avoid parking hassles or don’t want to drive after enjoying a night out. Drop-off and pick-up zones are clearly marked on the east side of AutoZone Park, near the corner of South Main and Jefferson Avenue.

During peak game times (especially after the final out), demand surges, leading to higher surge pricing and longer wait times. To avoid delays:

• Request your ride 15–20 minutes before the game ends.
• Use the app to select “UberX” or “Lyft Standard” to avoid premium vehicles unless necessary.
• Consider walking to a nearby intersection like South 2nd and Main if the designated zone is congested—riders are often available faster outside the immediate ballpark perimeter.

Pro Tip: Coordinate with your group to share rides. A single UberXL can accommodate up to six passengers, making it a cost-effective option for families or friends traveling together.

Option D: Bicycle and Pedestrian Access

Memphis has invested heavily in bike infrastructure, and AutoZone Park is easily accessible by bicycle. The city features over 100 miles of bike lanes and trails, including the popular Mississippi River Trail, which connects to downtown from the north and south.

AutoZone Park offers free, secure bike racks located on the east side of the venue near the Team Store. If you’re biking from the Memphis Riverwalk, Overton Park, or the South Main Arts District, you’ll find well-marked, safe routes.

Pro Tip: Bring a U-lock for added security. Avoid leaving valuables on your bike. Many fans combine biking with a downtown dinner, making this a great option for a low-carbon evening out.

Option E: Private Shuttle Services and Group Tours

Some local businesses, hotels, and fan clubs offer pre-arranged shuttle services for Redbirds games. These are often available for corporate groups, alumni associations, or organized fan events. Check with your hotel front desk or local chamber of commerce for shuttle options.

Pro Tip: If you’re staying at a downtown hotel like the Peabody Memphis, the Hilton Memphis, or the Westin Memphis Beale Street, inquire about game-day shuttle services. Many offer complimentary or discounted transportation for guests.

3. Plan Your Route Based on Your Starting Point

Your route to AutoZone Park will vary depending on where you’re coming from. Below are optimized routes from the most common access points:

From Memphis International Airport (MEM):

Distance: ~12 miles | Time: 15–25 minutes

• Take I-40 East toward downtown.
• Exit at Exit 234B (South Main Street).
• Follow South Main Street south for 1.5 miles to AutoZone Park.

Alternative: Use I-240 West to I-40 East if coming from the south side of the city.

From Downtown Memphis Hotels (e.g., Peabody, Hilton):

Distance: 0.5–1 mile | Time: 5–10 minutes

• Walk or use the pedestrian bridge over the Mississippi River to access South Main Street.
• Most hotels are within a 10-minute walk—use the sidewalks along Union Avenue or Madison Avenue.

From the suburbs (e.g., Germantown, Bartlett, Collierville):

Distance: 15–25 miles | Time: 25–40 minutes

• Take I-40 East into downtown.
• Exit at South Main Street (Exit 234B).
• For Germantown/Bartlett: Use I-240 West to I-40 East.
• For Collierville: Take US-51 North to I-40 East.

Pro Tip: Avoid I-240 during rush hour (4:30–6:30 p.m.) if possible. Use Poplar Avenue as a parallel route to bypass congestion.

4. Enter the Ballpark Efficiently

AutoZone Park has multiple entry gates. Choose wisely to minimize wait times:

• Home Plate Gate (Main Entrance): Located on South Main Street. Best for ticket holders in the infield seats. Often the busiest.
• Right Field Gate: Accessible from the parking garage. Less crowded and ideal for upper deck or outfield seating.
• Left Field Gate: Near the Team Store and kids’ zone. Good for families.

Have your tickets ready on your mobile device or printed. Gates open 90 minutes before first pitch. If you’re using a physical ticket, avoid the ticket window line—use the self-service kiosks near the gates for faster entry.

5. Plan Your Post-Game Exit

Leaving the ballpark can be just as challenging as arriving. Traffic congestion peaks in the 15–30 minutes after the final out. To avoid long waits:

• Use the MATA bus service—buses run every 10–15 minutes after games.
• If driving, avoid exiting directly onto South Main Street. Instead, head toward the FedExForum garage and take Union Avenue to I-40 West.
• Rideshare users should request their ride before the 8th inning to ensure availability.
• Walkers: The downtown area remains lively after games, so stick to well-lit, populated streets.

Best Practices

Attending a Memphis Redbirds game is more than just watching baseball—it’s a cultural experience. Following these best practices ensures you enjoy every moment without avoidable stress or mishaps.

Arrive Early

Arriving 90 minutes before first pitch gives you time to park, grab food, explore the ballpark, and soak in the pre-game atmosphere. AutoZone Park features a vibrant concourse with local vendors, a children’s play area, and live music. Many fans enjoy the “Redbirds Roast” BBQ stand or a cold brew from the Memphis Craft Beer Garden.

Use Mobile Tickets

Download your tickets via the Memphis Redbirds app or your Ticketmaster account. Mobile tickets reduce the risk of lost or forgotten paper tickets and allow for faster entry. If you’re sharing tickets with a group, use the app’s “Transfer” feature to send digital tickets directly to friends.

Check the Weather Forecast

Memphis summers are hot and humid, and thunderstorms are common. Always check the forecast before heading out. If rain is expected, bring a compact umbrella or rain jacket. The ballpark has covered seating, but open concourses can get wet. Avoid wearing flip-flops—paved walkways and stairs can be slippery.

Bring Cash and Cards

While most vendors accept credit cards, some food trucks and souvenir stands still operate on a cash-only basis. Carry $20–$30 in small bills for snacks, programs, or team merchandise. ATMs are available inside the ballpark, but lines can be long.

Know the Rules

AutoZone Park is a family-friendly venue. Prohibited items include:

• Alcohol brought from outside
• Large bags (over 16” x 16” x 8”)
• Cameras with detachable lenses
• Fireworks or noisemakers
• Weapons of any kind

Security screening is standard at all gates. Keep your bag small and uncluttered to speed up entry.

Plan for Food and Drinks

Concession prices at AutoZone Park are reasonable compared to MLB stadiums. Popular local favorites include:

• BBQ nachos from Redbirds Roast
• Memphis-style pulled pork sandwiches
• Hot dogs from the classic ballpark stand
• Local craft beers from Memphis’ own Wiseacre or New Era breweries

Consider bringing a reusable water bottle—free water refill stations are available near the restrooms.

Engage with the Game-Day Experience

Redbirds games feature giveaways, theme nights, and promotions like “Fireworks Fridays” and “Kids Run the Bases.” Check the team’s schedule online to see what’s happening on your visit. Dressing in team colors (red and white) or wearing a cap increases your chances of being featured on the scoreboard.

Tools and Resources

Leveraging the right tools makes navigating your trip to AutoZone Park seamless. Below are the most reliable digital and physical resources to use before and during your visit.

Official Memphis Redbirds Website

memphisredbirds.com is your primary source for:

• Game schedules and ticket purchases
• Seating maps and premium experiences
• Special event announcements
• Weather-related postponement updates

The site also offers a “Fan Guide” PDF with detailed parking, transit, and accessibility information.

AutoZone Park Interactive Map

Download the official AutoZone Park map from the Redbirds website or use the in-stadium kiosks. The map highlights:

• Entrance gates
• Restroom locations
• Food and beverage stands
• Merchandise shops
• First aid stations

Many fans use this map to plan their route from parking to their seats before entering.

Google Maps and Waze

Both apps provide real-time traffic updates, parking availability estimates, and walking directions. Search “AutoZone Park parking” to see nearby lots with live occupancy rates. Waze is especially useful for avoiding road closures or accidents near the ballpark.

MATA App

Available for iOS and Android, the MATA app allows you to:

• Track bus locations in real time
• Plan routes using your current location
• Pay fares digitally
• Receive service alerts

Use the “Stop ID” for AutoZone Park: 10899.

Memphis Downtown Parking App

Download the “ParkMobile” app to pay for street parking and surface lots around the ballpark. It shows available spots, rates, and allows you to extend your time remotely. No need to return to your car to feed the meter.

Local Weather Apps

Use the National Weather Service app or AccuWeather to monitor thunderstorm alerts. Memphis has frequent afternoon storms in spring and summer—knowing the forecast helps you plan your arrival time and attire.

Memphis Visitor Center

Located at 100 North Front Street, the Memphis Visitor Center offers printed maps, parking brochures, and local event guides. Staff can help you plan a full-day itinerary that includes a Redbirds game, dinner at Beale Street, and a visit to the National Civil Rights Museum.

Real Examples

Here are three real-life scenarios that illustrate how different visitors successfully made it to a Memphis Redbirds game.

Example 1: The First-Time Visitor from Nashville

Anna, a 28-year-old teacher from Nashville, was attending her first Redbirds game with her boyfriend. She drove from Nashville (210 miles) and planned to arrive at 4:00 p.m. for a 7:05 p.m. game.

She used Google Maps to avoid I-40 congestion and took US-70 West to I-240 West, then I-40 East. She parked in the City Hall Garage ($12) and walked 8 minutes to the ballpark. She bought tickets via the Redbirds app and used the MATA app to check the return bus schedule. She enjoyed the fireworks after the game and took the Route 1 bus back to her car, avoiding post-game traffic. “It was way easier than I thought,” she said. “The downtown vibe made the whole experience magical.”

Example 2: The Family Using Public Transit

The Johnsons—parents and two kids aged 7 and 10—lived in the Raleigh neighborhood and didn’t own a car. They took the MATA Route 10 bus from their stop on Lamar Avenue to the South 2nd & Main stop. They walked 10 minutes to the Left Field Gate, where they used the family restroom and played in the kids’ zone. They purchased tickets online in advance and used a MATA Day Pass ($4) for the entire family. After the game, they boarded the Route 1 bus back to Lamar and returned home by 9:30 p.m. “We saved over $50 on parking and had a blast,” said their mother.

Example 3: The Corporate Group Using a Shuttle

A local marketing firm organized a client appreciation night for 20 employees. They arranged a private shuttle through the Memphis Chamber of Commerce that picked them up at their office on Union Avenue at 5:15 p.m. and dropped them off at the VIP entrance. The shuttle returned them to the office after the game. “It was stress-free,” said the event planner. “We didn’t have to worry about parking, drinks, or getting home. The clients loved it.”

FAQs

What time do gates open for Memphis Redbirds games?

Gates typically open 90 minutes before the scheduled first pitch. For a 7:05 p.m. game, gates open at 5:35 p.m. Always confirm on the official website, as special events may alter this schedule.

Is there free parking near AutoZone Park?

Free parking is extremely limited. Some surface lots offer discounted rates for early arrivals (before 4:30 p.m.), but most require payment. Street parking is metered and enforced on game days. The best value is the official ballpark garage at $10–$15.

Can I bring food into AutoZone Park?

No outside food or beverages are permitted, except for sealed bottled water and items for medical or infant needs. Snacks for young children are allowed if presented at security.

Are there accessible seating options?

Yes. AutoZone Park offers wheelchair-accessible seating, companion seating, and accessible restrooms throughout the venue. Contact the Redbirds ticket office in advance to reserve accessible seating or request special assistance.

What if it rains during the game?

Games are rarely canceled due to rain. The field is equipped with a drainage system, and play continues unless conditions become unsafe. Bring a light rain jacket or poncho—umbrellas are allowed but must be stored during play for safety.

Is there a lost and found at AutoZone Park?

Yes. Lost items can be reported at the Guest Services booth near the Home Plate Gate. Unclaimed items are held for 30 days.

Can I bring my pet to the game?

Only service animals as defined by the ADA are permitted. Emotional support animals and pets are not allowed inside the ballpark.

What’s the best way to get back to my hotel after the game?

For downtown hotels, walking is often the easiest option. For others, use the MATA bus, rideshare, or pre-arranged shuttle. Avoid driving immediately after the game—traffic congestion peaks for 30–45 minutes after the final out.

Do children need tickets?

Children under 2 years old do not require a ticket if they sit on a parent’s lap. All other children must have a ticket. Many games offer discounted youth tickets—check the promotions page.

Are there ATMs inside the ballpark?

Yes. ATMs are located near the main concourse entrances and behind the Team Store. Fees apply, so bring cash if possible.

Conclusion

Getting to the Memphis Redbirds game is more than a logistical task—it’s the first step in creating lasting memories. Whether you’re driving, biking, taking public transit, or using a rideshare, the key to a great experience is preparation. By understanding your options, arriving early, and using the right tools, you’ll bypass the common pitfalls and fully immerse yourself in the energy of downtown Memphis on game night.

The Redbirds aren’t just a minor league team—they’re a community institution. The smell of grilled barbecue, the crack of the bat, the roar of the crowd, and the sight of fireworks over the Mississippi River all combine to make this a uniquely Memphis experience. Use this guide to navigate your journey with confidence, and don’t forget to cheer loudly for the home team. After all, every great game begins with a great arrival.