What PNC Park is and where to find it
PNC Park is the home stadium of the Pittsburgh Pirates, Major League Baseball's team in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. The ballpark opened in 2001 on the North Shore of the Allegheny River, replacing Three Rivers Stadium where the Pirates had played since 1970. The address is 115 Federal Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15212, and it sits within walking distance of downtown Pittsburgh's Golden Triangle district.
The stadium holds roughly 38,000 people and is known for its view of the Pittsburgh skyline and the Roberto Clemente Bridge, which connects the ballpark to the rest of the North Shore. The bridge is named after the Pirates' Hall of Famer who played for the team from 1955 until his death in 1972. On game days, the bridge closes to vehicle traffic and pedestrians cross it to reach the stadium.
Key Takeaways
- PNC Park is located at 115 Federal Street on Pittsburgh's North Shore and is accessible by car, public transit, and on foot from downtown.
- The Pirates play 81 home games per season from late March or early April through September, with occasional October playoff games.
- Ticket prices vary by opponent, day of the week, and seat location, and can be purchased through the Pirates' official website, Ticketmaster, or at the box office.
- The ballpark has multiple concession areas, a team store, and accessible seating and facilities for visitors with disabilities.
- Parking is available in nearby lots and garages, though public transit and walking are common alternatives on game days.
When the Pirates play home games
The Pirates play 81 home games each season as part of the 162-game Major League Baseball schedule. The regular season typically runs from late March or early April through the end of September. The exact dates change each year because MLB adjusts the schedule annually, so checking the Pirates' official website or MLB.com will show you the current year's schedule.
Games are usually played in the evening on weekdays (first pitch around 7:05 p.m.) and in the afternoon on weekends and holidays (first pitch around 1:35 p.m.), though times vary. If the Pirates make the playoffs, additional games may be played in October. The Pirates compete in the National League Central division against the Cincinnati Reds, Milwaukee Brewers, St. Louis Cardinals, and Chicago Cubs.
How to get tickets and what they cost
Tickets to Pirates games are sold through three main channels: the Pirates' official website (mlb.com/pirates), Ticketmaster, and the PNC Park box office at 115 Federal Street. You can purchase tickets online, by phone, or in person. Prices vary widely depending on the opponent, the day of the week, the time of year, and the seat location within the stadium.
A ticket to a weekday game against a less popular opponent might cost $15 to $30, while a weekend game or a matchup against a rival team like the Cincinnati Reds or St. Louis Cardinals could range from $40 to $100 or more for good seats. Premium seating behind home plate or in club sections costs significantly more. The Pirates often offer discounted tickets for certain games, military personnel, seniors, and children, so it is worth checking the website for current promotions.
Parking and how to get there
If you drive to PNC Park, several parking lots and garages are located nearby. The most convenient option is the PNC Park Parking Garage, which is directly adjacent to the stadium and holds roughly 1,800 vehicles. Other nearby garages and surface lots are operated by private companies and the City of Pittsburgh. Parking typically costs $10 to $20 depending on the lot and the event, though prices may be higher for popular games.
Public transit is another option: the Pittsburgh Port Authority runs bus routes to the North Shore, and the T light rail (the city's transit system) has a station near the stadium. Many visitors also walk from downtown Pittsburgh or from the South Shore, crossing the Roberto Clemente Bridge on foot. On game days, the bridge is closed to vehicle traffic to accommodate pedestrian flow.
What to bring and what the stadium provides
PNC Park allows you to bring a small bag (roughly the size of a purse or small backpack) into the stadium, though large bags, hard-sided coolers, and outside food and beverages are not permitted. You may bring an empty water bottle and fill it at fountains inside the park. Sunscreen and a hat are useful for day games, especially in the outfield seats where there is limited shade.
The stadium has multiple concession stands throughout the seating bowl selling hot dogs, nachos, pizza, sandwiches, beer, soft drinks, and other typical ballpark food. A team store on the main level sells Pirates merchandise including jerseys, hats, and memorabilia. Restrooms and water fountains are located on each level. If you need accessible seating or other accommodations, the Pirates' website has information about ADA services, and you can call the box office at 412-323-5000 to arrange them when you purchase tickets.
Accessible seating and facilities
PNC Park has wheelchair-accessible seating throughout the stadium, with companion seating nearby for caregivers. Accessible parking is available in designated lots near the stadium entrance. The ballpark has accessible restrooms on each level and elevators to reach upper deck seating. Service animals are permitted in the stadium.
If you need specific accommodations — such as accessible parking, wheelchair seating, or other services — contact the Pirates' ticket office at 412-323-5000 or visit the accessibility section of the Pirates' website. It is best to arrange these when you purchase your tickets so the team can reserve the appropriate seating and services for you.
What makes PNC Park notable
PNC Park is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful ballparks in Major League Baseball, largely because of its setting along the Allegheny River with views of the Pittsburgh skyline and the city's bridges. The outfield wall features a natural grass berm where fans can sit during games, and the upper deck offers sightlines to the river and downtown. The ballpark was designed by HOK Sport (now Populous), the same firm that designed several other modern MLB stadiums.
The Roberto Clemente Bridge, which connects the stadium to the North Shore, is a working bridge that carries vehicle traffic on non-game days but closes to cars on game days to let pedestrians cross. The bridge is painted in the Pirates' colors (black and gold) and has become an iconic part of the game-day experience. The stadium also features a statue of Roberto Clemente outside the main entrance, honoring the Pirates' legendary right fielder.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bring my own food and drinks into PNC Park?
Outside food and beverages are not permitted in the stadium. You may bring an empty water bottle and fill it at fountains inside the park. The stadium has concession stands throughout selling food and drinks at typical ballpark prices.
What is the best way to get to PNC Park if I do not have a car?
Public transit is a good option: the Pittsburgh Port Authority bus system and the T light rail both serve the North Shore. Many people also walk from downtown Pittsburgh or from the South Shore across the Roberto Clemente Bridge, which is closed to vehicle traffic on game days.
Are there discounted tickets available for certain games?
Yes. The Pirates offer discounted tickets for military personnel, seniors, and children on select games. Check the Pirates' official website or call the box office at 412-323-5000 to learn about current promotions and discounted game dates.
Can I bring a bag into the stadium?
You may bring a small bag roughly the size of a purse or small backpack. Large bags and hard-sided coolers are not permitted. Check the Pirates' website for the current bag policy before you visit.
What should I do if I need wheelchair-accessible seating?
Contact the Pirates' ticket office at 412-323-5000 or visit the accessibility section of the Pirates' website when you purchase tickets. The team will reserve appropriate seating and arrange any other accommodations you need.