Opening Day for the Detroit Tigers is basically a holiday in The D. I’ve been to four home openers at Comerica Park, and there’s no better way I can think of to kick off the unofficial start of summer.
Even on the years when it’s been a little cold or rainy, there’s something about hearing the crack of the bat echo through the city for the first time each spring that makes winter seem like a vague memory.
As the Tigers gear up for yet another run at the World Series, here’s a look some insider tips for celebrating Opening Day in The D:
Getting a Golden Ticket
Those with tickets for the April 6 game will agree the anticipation builds with each day leading into the home opener. There are limited tickets still remaining at the box office, or you can always get them on StubHub. On a budget? Keep your fingers crossed that your cousin or coworker has to give up their seats last minute. Hey, there’s always a chance, right? Whatever way gets you a golden ticket into the park, you’re lucky to be part of the group that welcomes our boys back to Detroit for another season.
Before the Game
The excitement begins before the sun even rises on Opening Day, so the earlier you get downtown the better. Keep in mind it’s still a workday for most people, so account for rush-hour traffic. That said, many of the bars and restaurants open early for the diehard tailgaters and fans looking for a place to get a bite to eat or a beverage before the game. A few of my recommendations for pre-game spots are Grand Trunk Pub, Elwood Bar & Grill and Nemo’s. A lot of establishments also offer free or low-cost shuttles to and from the game, so you can always start your day in Corktown, Midtown or Greektown and make your way to the park as the day goes on.
Getting into the Park
Got your tickets? Remember to get to the gates early and allow enough time for parking and security screenings. To speed up the process, double-check the park’s security guidelines and hash out a parking plan beforehand. There are plenty of pre-game activities to enjoy inside the stadium like photo opportunities, the famous Fly Ball Ferris Wheel and plenty of food and beverage hot spots within the park. Just be sure to get to your seat early so you don’t to miss the national anthem and official first pitch of the year! Whether you’ve got infield box seats or standing room only, there’s something special about being inside the ballpark on Opening Day in The D.
No ticket? No problem. You can hang out at the 97.1 The Ticket’s Free Opening Day Block Party in Grand Circus Park, or explore the other attractions around the stadium where the action is sure to keep going all night long.
Celebrating from Afar
If you can’t make it downtown for Opening Day, it’s almost a guarantee most of the restaurants, bars and even office buildings across metro Detroit will have the game on. If you prefer to celebrate from the comfort of your own home, you can watch on FOX Sports Detroit, or kick it old school and listen to the play-by-play over the airwaves.
Document the Day and Enter a Photo Contest
Take some photos of your day and tag them #OpeningDayinTheD for a chance to win a pair of passes for a beer tour with Motor City Brew Tours, valued at $100. May the most spirited photo win!
