Summer is the perfect time to take your kid to their first Major League Baseball game — the crack of the bat and the joy of cheering with thousands of orange-clad fans. Whether your family is full of Giants loyalists or just looking for a classic San Francisco experience, a trip to Oracle Park is one for the memory books.
This year marks 25 years at Oracle Park, and the Giants are going big to celebrate. The team’s new leadership — including former catcher and fan favorite Buster Posey — is focused on one thing: fun. At a recent media preview, the Giant’s marketing team shared that their motto is “We’re in the fun business.” With themed nights, concerts, giveaways, and some family-friendly updates to the stadium, consider adding a Giants’ game to your summer bucket list.
9 Things To Do on Your Child’s First Visit to a Giants Game
1. Slide Down the Newly-Refreshed Coca-Cola Bottle
That giant Coke bottle in left field? It’s more than a landmark — it’s a giant slide! This season it has a fresh new LED-lit look. Your kids won’t forget zooming down it while the game plays on giant nearby screens.
2. Pick Up a Giants Cap and Foam Finger
Every little fan needs their first piece of team merch. Grab a classic orange-and-black cap, a foam finger, and a souvenir popcorn bat (yes, it’s real — 96 ounces of popcorn!) for maximum photo ops and excitement.
3. Snap a Selfie with Lou Seal
The Giants’ lovable mascot, Lou Seal, is known for his antics and friendliness in photos. Track him down before or during the game and get a family pic. If you can’t find Lou, there are a variety of LEGO statues to pose with — including one of Buster Posey!
4. Go on a Tuesday for the City Connect Experience
City Connect Tuesdays are the most vibrant night of the week. The Giants wear music-inspired uniforms and there’s always special programming. From live DJs to extra family fun, it’s a great pick for a first game.
5. Plan Around a Giveaway Night
Who doesn’t love free swag? Choose a game where they’re handing out bobbleheads (Barry Bonds and Steph Curry are upcoming) or a Giants jersey in 49ers red and gold.
Not up for heading to the city? Consider an Oakland Ballers or Cal Athletics game.
6. Learn the New Anthem: “Nothin’ Like It” by LaRussel
The new Giants theme song is a local anthem that’s sure to get stuck in your head. Play it on the way to the park (watch on YouTube) and let your kid belt it out with the crowd.
7. Catch a Post-Game Concert
Stick around after select games for live performances from big names like Saweetie or Nate Smith. You can even upgrade your ticket to get on-field access — a huge thrill for older kids and tweens.
8. Join a Heritage or College Theme Night
From Korean Heritage Night to Nurses Appreciation Night, the Giants love to celebrate their fans. Buy tickets through the special link to score themed swag like shirts and hats — or attend a Cal Poly, Cal, or SF State Night and show school spirit with your kids.
9. Get in the game in the Fan Lot or after the game on the field
Kids can take a turn at bat (a Whiffle bat, that is) at Oracle Park’s mini-baseball diamond, located in the Fan Lot behind the bleachers (near the Coca-Cola Slide). After Sunday games, kids 14 and under are invited to come on the field for a Run the Bases program.
What Parents Should Know
- Ferry Service from Oakland & Alameda is available: Check the SF Ferry Schedules to see if this meets your needs. The ferry goes right to the park. Taking BART requires transfering to MUNI (line N) at Embarcadero. Exit at King & 2nd.
- Food & Drinks: Oracle Park now has more drink stations and snack spots, plus extra big screens so you don’t miss a pitch while waiting in line.
- Ticket Options: If you think this could become a tradition, consider the 20-game membership packages, which include perks and are customizable.
- Kid Tips: Bring ear protection for little ones, layer up for chilly night games, and budget for snacks — garlic fries and churros are crowd-pleasers.
- Parking: If you decide to drive, note that garages nearest to the ball park will cost $60-$80. Review rates and reserve a spot on SpotHero to save time and stress.
- Sensory-friendly: If this all sounds like a lot for your little one, know that Oracle Park offers sensory bags for checkout at Guest Services. They include noise-canceling headphones, fidget tools, cue cards, and weighted lap pads.
Bottom Line
Baseball games are plenty long, so plan to enjoy the facilities — and the view. Whether you’re there for the slide, the foam fingers, the fireworks, or the baseball, Oracle Park delivers a big-league experience the whole family will love.
