New Visitor Guide to American Family Field: What to Eat, See and Do at a Brewers Game

There is nothing quite like attending your first Milwaukee Brewers game at American Family Field.

Milwaukee may not have one of Major League Baseball’s oldest ballparks, but it offers something many newer stadiums cannot replicate: a deeply local game-day experience built around tailgating, bratwurst, Wisconsin beer, friendly fans and some of the most recognizable traditions in baseball.

For visitors checking another stadium off their MLB ballpark list, American Family Field often ends up being one of the biggest surprises. The retractable roof makes games comfortable in almost any weather, the parking lots become enormous pregame parties, and the Famous Racing Sausages are every bit as entertaining as advertised.

Whether you are visiting Milwaukee with friends, bringing the kids or planning a weekend around the game, here is everything a first-time visitor should know.

American Family Field at a Glance

Address: 1 Brewers Way, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Home team: Milwaukee Brewers
Opened: 2001
Roof: Retractable
Ballpark setting: Approximately 10 minutes west of downtown Milwaukee

Before leaving home, review the Brewers’ official American Family Field information and policies and download the MLB Ballpark app. Tickets and parking passes are primarily digital, and the app also includes an interactive stadium map.

You can also explore our family guide to Milwaukee Brewers games for additional tips about attending with children.

Arrive Early for Tailgating

American Family Field is not a stadium where you should plan to arrive five minutes before first pitch.

The parking lots are a major part of the experience. Milwaukee remains one of baseball’s great tailgating cities, with fans grilling bratwurst, playing bags, listening to music and gathering around coolers before the game.

Parking lots generally open three hours before weekend games and most weekday afternoon games. For certain weekday evening games, the lots may open approximately two and a half hours before first pitch. Because times can change, check the Brewers’ official parking information for your specific game.

Even visitors who do not bring a grill can enjoy the atmosphere. Walk around, talk with other fans and take in the scene before heading inside. Brewers fans are generally welcoming, and you may find yourself discussing baseball over a brat with people you met five minutes earlier.

Tailgating Tips for First-Time Visitors

Bring folding chairs, a small table, food, drinks and a portable grill if you plan to host your own tailgate. Gas and charcoal grills are generally permitted, but open flames and deep fryers are prohibited.

Tailgating must remain within your parking space, and fans are expected to begin cleaning up and entering the ballpark around game time. Review the complete American Family Field tailgating rules before arriving.

For a simpler option, pick up bratwurst, sandwiches or picnic food from a Milwaukee restaurant and enjoy a low-effort tailgate in the parking lot.

Should You Drive or Take a Brewers Shuttle?

Both options can work well, depending on the type of experience you want.

Driving and Parking

Driving is the best option for visitors who want the complete Milwaukee tailgating experience. Buying parking in advance is usually the easiest approach, particularly for weekend games, rivalry games and promotional dates.

The parking areas surrounding American Family Field are large, so remember where you parked. Take a photo of the nearest lot sign or light-pole number before walking toward the stadium.

After the game, expect traffic to move slowly as thousands of vehicles leave at once. Spending a little extra time near the stadium or finishing your tailgate cleanup can sometimes make the departure easier.

Taking a Brewers Shuttle

Milwaukee’s bar shuttle system is one of the most distinctive ways to attend a Brewers game.

Numerous bars, restaurants and hotels provide transportation to and from American Family Field, often with the purchase of food or a drink. Shuttle policies, departure times, age restrictions and costs vary, so always contact the business directly before game day.

Start with our updated guide to Brewers shuttles. Visit Milwaukee also maintains an official Milwaukee Brewers shuttle guide.

Popular shuttle locations have traditionally included establishments such as:

• Milwaukee Brat House

• Steny’s Tavern & Grill

• O’Lydia’s

• Jack’s American Pub

• Kelly’s Bleachers

• Who’s on Third

• Camp Bar

• Leff’s Lucky Town

Do not assume every shuttle runs for every game. Call or check the business’s social media page before making plans.

Using Uber or Lyft

American Family Field has a designated rideshare lot near the south end of the Molitor Lot. Rideshare can be convenient before the game, but postgame wait times and surge pricing may be significant.

Visitors staying downtown may find that a bar shuttle offers a more enjoyable and predictable game-day experience.

When Do the Gates Open?

For most Brewers home games, gates open 90 minutes before the scheduled first pitch. Gates typically open two hours before Saturday home games and Opening Day.

Opening times can change, so verify the schedule in the MLB Ballpark app or the Brewers’ American Family Field guide.

Arriving when the gates open gives you enough time to walk the concourse, find the statues and displays, shop for Brewers gear, watch batting practice when available and order food before the largest crowds arrive.

What to See Outside American Family Field

Do not rush directly from your car to the entrance. Several important pieces of Milwaukee baseball history are displayed outside the stadium.

Hank Aaron Statue

Hank Aaron began and ended his Major League career in Milwaukee, playing for the Milwaukee Braves and later the Brewers. His statue is one of the essential photo stops for baseball fans.

Bob Uecker Statue

The statue honoring longtime Brewers broadcaster Bob Uecker is another must-see. Known nationally as “Mr. Baseball,” Uecker became one of the most beloved figures in Milwaukee sports history.

Robin Yount Statue

Robin Yount spent his entire 20-year Major League career with the Brewers and won two American League Most Valuable Player Awards. His statue celebrates one of the franchise’s greatest players.

Bud Selig Statue

Former Brewers owner and MLB commissioner Allan H. “Bud” Selig played a central role in bringing Major League Baseball back to Milwaukee.

Brewers Walk of Fame

The Brewers Walk of Fame begins near Home Plate Plaza and features home plate-shaped markers honoring important Milwaukee Brewers and Braves players, coaches, broadcasters and executives.

Allow at least 20 to 30 minutes to explore the area outside the ballpark, especially if you are photographing each landmark for a stadium-chasing collection.

What Every Stadium Chaser Should See Inside

Once you enter, resist the urge to go directly to your seat. American Family Field has several attractions worth exploring.

Bernie Brewer’s Dugout and Slide

Bernie Brewer celebrates Brewers home runs by sliding down his yellow slide above the left-field bleachers.

The slide is one of the ballpark’s signature sights, and Bernie’s area makes a great photo backdrop even before the game begins.

For an additional fee, the Brewers offer a limited Bernie’s Slide Experience before select games. Availability and age restrictions apply, and game tickets must be purchased separately.

The Famous Racing Sausages

The Famous Racing Sausages traditionally race during the middle of the sixth inning.

The original lineup includes:

• Bratwurst

• Polish Sausage

• Italian Sausage

• Hot Dog

• Chorizo

Do not use the sixth inning as your concession-break inning during your first visit. The race only lasts a few moments, and it is one of the traditions visitors remember most.

The Selig Experience

Located on the Loge Level in the left-field corner, the Selig Experience tells the story of Major League Baseball’s return to Milwaukee and the development of American Family Field.

The attraction is free for ticketed guests and is generally open from the time the gates open through the end of the seventh inning.

Brewers Wall of Honor

The Wall of Honor recognizes notable players, coaches and executives who have made significant contributions to the Brewers franchise.

J. Leinenkugel’s Barrel Yard

The Barrel Yard is a working pilot brewery and full-service restaurant overlooking left field. It is one of the most distinctly Milwaukee features inside the ballpark.

Game-day access requires a game ticket, and reservations may be helpful. Learn more through the Barrel Yard website.

The Retractable Roof

American Family Field’s fan-shaped retractable roof is a major part of the stadium’s identity.

When the roof is open, the ballpark feels bright and airy. When it is closed, the Brewers can play comfortably during rain, cold temperatures or unpredictable Wisconsin weather.

Either way, take time to appreciate the scale of the roof from the seating bowl.

What to Eat at American Family Field

Milwaukee is a food city, and the ballpark menu leans heavily into Wisconsin traditions.

Food offerings and concession locations can change throughout the season, so use the Brewers’ interactive concourse map to locate specific items.

Bratwurst

For a first Brewers game, the classic choice is a bratwurst topped with mustard, sauerkraut or both.

Bratwurst is closely tied to Wisconsin baseball culture, making it the most obvious starting point for a visiting fan.

Cheese Curds

Fried Wisconsin cheese curds are another essential ballpark order. They are best eaten immediately while the cheese is still warm.

Frozen Custard

Milwaukee takes frozen custard seriously, and several concession locations offer custard inside the stadium.

After the game, continue the experience with our ranking of the best frozen custard around Milwaukee. Kopp’s, Leon’s, Gilles and Oscar’s are among the classic Milwaukee-area stops worth considering.

New and Specialty Food

The Brewers regularly introduce new menu items. The 2026 lineup includes options such as deep-fried kringle, nachos on a stick, cream puffs, funnel fries and specialty sandwiches.

Check the Brewers’ current ballpark food guide before your game to see what is new.

Local Beer

American Family Field offers numerous Wisconsin beers in addition to national brands.

Spotted Cow is a popular choice for out-of-state visitors because New Glarus beer is distributed only in Wisconsin. Other options may include beers from Leinenkugel’s and Milwaukee-area breweries.

Selections vary by concession stand, so explore the concourse rather than ordering at the first location you see.

American Family Field Bag and Payment Policies

American Family Field uses a single-compartment bag policy.

Generally permitted bags include:

• Non-clear bags measuring no more than 9 by 5 by 2 inches

• Clear, single-compartment bags measuring no more than 12 by 12 by 6 inches

• One-gallon clear resealable bags

• Approved diaper bags and medically necessary bags

All guests pass through security screening before entering. Review the latest American Family Field security policies before packing.

American Family Field is cashless at concession stands, retail stores and portable kiosks. Accepted payment methods include credit cards, debit cards, Apple Pay, Google Pay, Brewers gift cards and prepaid cards.

Cash-to-card kiosks are available inside the stadium for guests who arrive with cash.

Tips for Visiting with Kids

American Family Field is one of the more family-friendly Major League Baseball stadiums.

Pick Up a First Game Certificate

First-time guests can receive a complimentary First Game Certificate at Brewers Guest Relations.

Guest Relations locations include:

• Field Level near Section 116

• Loge Level behind Section 221

• Club Level behind Section 333

• Terrace Level behind Section 419

A limited complimentary food reward may also be available while supplies last.

Visit the Kids Zone

The Aurora Children’s Health Kids Zone is located in the left-field corner on the Terrace Level. It is designed primarily for children under 42 inches tall and remains open through the eighth inning.

Explore the Glove Playground

The Glove Playground is on the Field Level near the right-field corner and includes interactive games and photo opportunities for children.

Look for Sunday Activities

Select Sunday games may include autograph opportunities for children, promotional items or Kids Run the Bases after the game.

These programs are subject to change. Review the Brewers’ schedule and our Brewers promotions guide before choosing a date.

You can also track upcoming collectibles through our Brewers giveaway guide.

Where Should First-Time Visitors Sit?

There is no single perfect section, but these general recommendations can help.

Best Overall View

Seats on the Loge Level between first and third base provide a strong balance of elevation, field visibility and atmosphere.

Best Lower-Level Experience

Field Level seats place you close to the action, but prices vary considerably depending on the opponent and location.

Best Budget Seats

Terrace Level tickets are generally the most affordable. Seats near home plate provide a complete view of the field, although you will be farther from the action.

The Brewers also sell a limited number of partially obstructed Uecker Seats on the day of the game. They are inexpensive and have become a quirky Milwaukee baseball tradition, but availability is limited.

Best for Families

Seats near the right-field corner provide relatively easy access to the Glove Playground. Families with very young children may prefer Terrace Level seats near the Kids Zone.

Best for Home Runs and Atmosphere

The bleachers and outfield sections tend to have a lively atmosphere and provide a closer view of Bernie Brewer’s slide.

Where to Stay in Milwaukee for a Brewers Game

There are not many traditional tourist hotels immediately surrounding American Family Field. Most first-time visitors will have a better overall experience staying downtown or in a nearby neighborhood.

Downtown Milwaukee

Downtown provides easy access to restaurants, the RiverWalk, bars, museums and shuttle locations. It is the most convenient base for visitors who want to experience the city beyond the stadium.

Historic Third Ward

The Historic Third Ward is ideal for visitors who want restaurants, nightlife, boutiques and the Milwaukee Public Market within walking distance.

West Allis or Wauwatosa

These communities are closer to American Family Field and may offer more affordable accommodations and easier driving access.

Near Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport

Airport hotels can be practical for short visits, but you will be farther from downtown attractions and most Brewers shuttle locations.

What to Do Before or After the Game

A Brewers game can easily become the centerpiece of a full Milwaukee weekend.

Visit the Milwaukee Public Market

The Milwaukee Public Market is one of the city’s best stops for local food, coffee, desserts and Wisconsin gifts.

It is located in the Historic Third Ward and works especially well for lunch before an evening game.

Walk the Milwaukee RiverWalk

The Milwaukee RiverWalk connects downtown neighborhoods, restaurants, breweries and public art.

Be sure to find the Bronze Fonz statue along the river.

See the Milwaukee Art Museum

The Milwaukee Art Museum is known for its dramatic lakefront architecture and movable Burke Brise Soleil.

Even visitors who do not have time to tour the galleries can walk along the lakefront and see the building from outside.

Families can read our ultimate family guide to the Milwaukee Art Museum before visiting.

Tour the Harley-Davidson Museum

The Harley-Davidson Museum explores the history, culture and engineering behind one of Milwaukee’s most recognizable companies.

Explore Milwaukee’s Lakefront

Veterans Park, Lakeshore State Park, Bradford Beach and the lakefront trails provide excellent skyline and Lake Michigan views.

For more outdoor ideas, explore our guide to Milwaukee-area parks.

Eat Frozen Custard

A first Milwaukee trip is not complete without frozen custard.

Use our Milwaukee frozen custard rankings to choose a stop after the game.

Find a Great Donut Shop

Visitors staying overnight can start the next morning with one of the shops included in our guide to the best donuts in Milwaukee.

Visit a Farmers Market

Weekend visitors can combine a game with one of the area’s Milwaukee farmers markets.

Check the Festival Calendar

Milwaukee’s summer calendar is packed with cultural festivals, neighborhood celebrations and lakefront events.

See our complete Milwaukee summer festival guide to find out what is happening during your visit.

You can also browse our guide to free outdoor live music around Milwaukee.

A Sample One-Day Brewers Itinerary

For an Evening Game

10:00 a.m.: Visit the Milwaukee Art Museum and walk along Lake Michigan.

12:30 p.m.: Have lunch at the Milwaukee Public Market.

2:00 p.m.: Explore the Historic Third Ward and RiverWalk.

3:30 p.m.: Return to your hotel or stop at a shuttle bar.

4:00 to 4:30 p.m.: Head toward American Family Field or board your shuttle.

4:30 to 6:00 p.m.: Tailgate, visit the statues and walk the Brewers Walk of Fame.

When gates open: Explore the concourse, see the Selig Experience and order your first ballpark food.

Game time: Watch for Bernie Brewer, the Racing Sausages and “Roll Out the Barrel.”

After the game: Take the shuttle downtown or stop for frozen custard.

A Sample Weekend in Milwaukee

Friday

• Check into a downtown or Third Ward hotel

• Explore the Milwaukee RiverWalk

• Have dinner at a local restaurant or brewery

• Attend a Friday night Brewers game

Saturday

• Visit the Milwaukee Public Market

• Tour the Milwaukee Art Museum or Harley-Davidson Museum

• Walk along Lake Michigan

• Try frozen custard

• Find a festival, concert or neighborhood event

Sunday

• Visit a farmers market

• Attend a Sunday afternoon Brewers game

• Pick up a First Game Certificate for the kids

• Stay for Kids Run the Bases when offered

Visitors continuing through Wisconsin can find more ideas in our guide to 72 Wisconsin adventures.

First-Time Visitor Checklist

Before leaving for American Family Field, make sure you have:

• Digital game tickets loaded in the MLB Ballpark app

• A digital parking pass or confirmed shuttle reservation

• A bag that complies with stadium rules

• A credit card or mobile payment method

• Comfortable shoes for walking the concourse

• A light jacket for evening games

• A plan to arrive well before first pitch

• Time to see the statues and Walk of Fame

• Room for a brat, cheese curds or frozen custard

• A reminder to watch the sixth-inning Sausage Race

Final Thoughts

American Family Field may not have the age of Fenway Park or Wrigley Field, but Milwaukee offers one of the most distinctive and welcoming game-day experiences in Major League Baseball.

The stadium combines modern comforts with traditions that feel authentically Wisconsin: parking-lot tailgates, bratwurst, local beer, a retractable roof, Bernie Brewer and five sausages racing around the warning track.

Come early, talk with the fans around you, walk the entire ballpark and make time to explore Milwaukee beyond the game. For many first-time visitors and stadium chasers, the experience becomes one of the unexpected highlights of their baseball travels.

Before choosing your game, check the official Milwaukee Brewers schedule, review the latest American Family Field information, and explore more of our Milwaukee Brewers guides.