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Comerica Park itinerary by Wise Guides

Detroit may not have the best reputation (ok, that's an understatement), but in reality there's plenty to see and do downtown before and after the game. Start at Nemo's, a great sports bar by any measure. It's nestled right next to old Tiger Stadium, and you can park there and take their shuttle to Comerica. The Old Shillelagh is another popular downtown spot that offers a shuttle to Tigers games. ... Downtown Detroit is compact and the Tigers are far from the only game around. Close by is Joe Louis Arena, which is usually bustling into late spring with the Red Wings deep into the Stanley Cup playoffs. This allows fans to occasionally pull a double of baseball and hockey on the same day. ... Ford Field, home to the Detroit Lions, is next door to Comerica, so it's also possible to take in a double-feature on September Sundays when both the Lions and Tigers (and maybe even the Bears) are in town. ... If you've got time before first pitch, check out Comerica's other neighbor, the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History, which has a large exhibit on the Negro Leagues. ... A great place to meet friends and grab a brew before the game starts is in the park's unique Beer Hall at the Brushfire Grill (section 131 behind third base). Try a Bell's, a tasty microbrew from Michigan. ... If you brought the kids along, Comerica has a ferris wheel and a Tiger-themed carousel they should enjoy. ... Also worth checking out are the various tiger statues around the park and the monuments to Detroit greats Hank Greenberg, Al Kaline, Ty Cobb and others beyond left-center field. ... A Comerica and local favorite is the Coney dog smothered in chili, onions and cheese. Get one. ... After the game, head to the nearby Greektown neighborhood with its many restaurants and bars, and the Greektown Casino if you're so inclined. ... You can get Greek food at the casino, but better yet head across the street to Laikon Café or Cyprus Taverna.

More info at Wise Guides

Detroit Tigers - User Comments Add your own

Terrible place to watch a game, but... -- 2005-01-26

COPA is atrocious! The upper deck is swept so far off the field that the closest seat is further from the playing surface than the most distant seats in the upper deck of Tiger Stadium. I grew up attending multiple games per season in Tiger Stadium, and every time I went I felt like I was in the middle of the action; I could hear players talking, the crack of the bat, etc. At Comerica, sitting in the upper deck does not feel like being in attendence at a major league game. Watch on a large television, and you'll feel closer to the action. In addition, the low grade of seats in the lower deck causes every passerby within ten rows to create a partially obstructed view!

That being said, my advice to young people attending a game is to arrive early, buy beer, and stand in center field by the statues. I attended a game this summer with one of my best friends, and the standing room area in CF is the closest approximation to a real major league baseball experience that you can have at COPA. The statues prove to be excellent coasters for said beer, people sneak puffs on cigaretts (providing authentic major league smells), and there are frequently people to chat with in the area. In addition, the Pepsi bleacher deals are pretty fair, and that is another area that can be rather fun for young adult fans (you can tell that the Pepsi bleachers are priced lower than the rest of the stadium when watching a Tiger game on TV; look for fans. They are the only seats that are constantly sold out).

My advice to families is to either take out a loan and spring for club seats, or stay home. Paying 20$ to park by right field is a joke, unless you have limited mobility. Parking two blocks away is 10$, and some free street parking is available for the thrifty.

DCL

Great Park! - **parking tip** -- 2004-08-30

Just got back from a one week trip to Detroit, Cleveland, Wrigley, Cinci, and Pittsburgh. Comerica surprised me at how nice a park it is. Take the time to walk around the ballpark and notice all of the little details like the Tiger "gargoyles" with baseballs in their mouths, to the statues of former Tiger greats Kaline, Newhauser, Horton, Cobb, Greenburg, and Gehringer. Visit the Hockeytown pub across the street and see neat Red Wing memorabilia such as their old lockers from Joe Louis Arena to many signed and unsigned jerseys and photos. **Parking tip** We got there early for a night game and only paid $2 to park all night (another lot a little closer was $3). These lots became $15 and $20 some time around 4 PM.

mike brennan

Tix, Parking Experience at Comerica -- 2003-09-21

I went to the Wednesday, June 11, 2003 game vs. the Dodgers. Wednesday, 7:10PM Brown (8-1, 2.06) v Bernero(1-7, 5.51) LA 35-28 2nd place, DET 16-45, 5th place Attendance 13,700 Weather: pleasant (toward the end of the game I put on my jacket) Tickets: Infield Box. Section 134, row 19, $20 apiece (face $30) right on the line from 2nd to 3rd base.

Got off of I-75 at 6:05 PM. Drove around for about 20 minutes getting familiar with parking situation on west side of stadium. There were numerous empty lots starting about 5-6 blocks from stadium advertising $8 parking, with a couple of $10 lots advertising that they were guarded. As we got closer most of the lots advertised $10, then $20 for most of the lots within 2 blocks of the stadium. The free on-street parking within a couple of blocks of the stadium was filling up just as we were looking there. I didn't feel comfortable parking on the street any further from the stadium. Wound up parking for $5 at the lot under Grand Circus Park 2 blocks from the stadium.

There were no scalpers within 1 block of the stadium and only one group of scalpers within 2 blocks of the stadium as far as I could tell. The guy I bought the tickets from said that scalping is illegal in MI, and it's "more illegal" within 500 feet of the stadium. There were a ton of police officers and Tigers' security personnel extending a block or 2 around the stadium. If you're planning on buying scalped tix, I'd suggest you get there 90 minutes before gametime. As it gets within an hour of gametime, it's gonna take you a little bit of time to find the scalpers. It's possible that the market is more vigorous before the cops and security guards get out there.

We first encountered the guy we bought the tix from at 6:40. He asked face, and he dropped his price to $20 as we were walking away. He was the only one in the group selling infield boxes. We didn't have time to find any more sellers, although I saw a couple of guys looking for extra tickets. The $20 box seats were still there at 7 PM. The guys sitting next to us said there were a lot of scalpers out when they bought their tickets, but I didn't ask them to elaborate.

Thompson

missing stutue -- 2003-05-14

I saw a list of the former Tigers who have been honored with statues. Why no statue of hall of famer Harry Heilmann, one of the greatest hitters ever?

hal katen

Comerica as seen by a New Yorker -- 2002-12-02

I went to Comerica and 5/3 Field this summer on a baseball weekend and was very impressed by both. I understand that the new field lacks the tradition, intimacy, and character of old Tiger Stadium, and I would absolutely slit my wrists if the Yankees ever sold the naming rights to a bank. But, the architecture was spectacular and the amenities very good and easily accessible. Compared to the Stadium, it was very easy to get around, watch the game and get a hot dog at the same time(isn't this an important basis for judgment?). As for the high prices, you haven't seen anything until you pay upwards of $10 for a stale beer and dog in the Bronx. The seats in the terrace were great. I hope other stadium architects follow suit. The only downfall of the entire day was the team, which managed to squander a big lead and lose the game. Being a Yankee fan, it didn't matter to me, but it would have been nice to see the home team win one for a change.....

Mark Randles

Comerica Park, An Overview -- 2002-08-21

(This was in Aug. 2001) Following the directions from the Tigers web site, we took I-75 at the designated exit and followed the street. We ended up paying $20 to park right next to the field, however, the further away you got, the cheaper it was. Looking at the stadium, you can't help but be amazed by the Tiger heads that serve as rain spouts and the giant Tiger statue by the main gate with the two 50' baseball bats. Our seats were $15, just foul of the foul pole in right field. Behind us, a McDonald's, in front of us, the world's largest scoreboard with tigers, whose eyes light up after a Tiger run scores. The fences are lower than a man's waist, and facilitate autograph signing, but with all those people waiting (just kidding)? It's got things for the kids to do (left field line), things for sports history buffs (down the left field line and in center field), and things for Tigers fans (the game). If the threat of crime wasn't so high (after all, this is the town that had Robo-cop) and the team was good (where are you Luis Gonzalez?), the stadium would be packed.

Mike

-- 2002-07-13

I just recently had a trip to Detroit and got to see a game at Comerica. I had expected alot more out of it. The place is very large, much to large for a stadium that the Tigers play in. The best part about it, is everywhere you look, you see something with tigers on it, whether it be the 50 foot tigers at the entrance, or the tigers stripes on the walls, they are everywhere. One of the best values in baseball with the $8.00 bleacher seats (includes a hot dog or pizza and a pop) and you can move down right behind the plate because no one is there, and parking can be free if you find a spot on a street around the park (I parked right next to new Ford Field). Driving aro

Comerica is blah

Sorry, but it Doesn't Compare -- 2001-08-21

I am not easily impressed by the new park in Detroit. I feel that Comerica, ridiculously named after a bank of all things, doesn't fairly represent Detroit, a town that is rich in baseball tradition. We are all about baseball with no frills. Spare me your giant tigers by the entrance, merry-go-rounds and octopus rides. We have the world's largest scoreboard. Big deal. How ironic is it that one of the most pitiful offensive teams in baseball gets the world's largest scoreboard? This way the "0"s will stand out that much more. If we needed a new ballpark, and that fact is highly questionable, it should have resembled Tiger Stadium to a much greater degree. Comerica is pricey(very), impersonal, lacking intimacy, and incorporates too much of what baseball is NOT about. Way to go Mr. Ilitch. How about some players now to fill it? I find it rather curious that the "problems" which made it unable for the Tigers to compete in Tiger Stadium in the latter years were apparently non-existent during the 1984 and 1987 seasons when we won 104 and 98 games respectively. I suppose the taller dugouts and better fitness facility is the key factor that has allowed the Tigers to reach the unprecedented level of success that they have at this point in 2001. But you have to give the pizza magnate credit though. The new park has been a major element in retaining key free agents like......um......well, you know....that guy.......what's his name again? Well, I'm sure EVENTUALLY it will. The bottom line is that it would have been far less expensive to renovate Tiger Stadium and it would have allowed the Tigers to maintain the tradition and history of their proud franchise while updating their older stadium with some of the necessary modern conveniences found today. Instead we sold out our proud name and built Dollar-Sign stadium, which went well over budget, making it nearly impossible to significantly increase our payroll in the near future. But I guess the bright side to all of this is the hiked up ticket and concession prices to watch the same team that "couldn't win" in Tiger Stadium.

Perry Golson

A Few Things -- 2001-08-12

Comerica Park sprawls over almost 3 square blocks, in lamens terms it's BIG. I sat along the 3rd base line, almost directly across from where the left fielder would be stationed. Great view of the General Motors Fountain, a post card worthy view of the haunting skyline, and you could very easily watch the score board. Although I did not go to the upper deck it's quite clear that these seats are set well off the field. (binoculars will be needed) If you need to get a beer or a dog and do not want to miss the game. Don't worry all concessions on the lower level are open aired. So you won't miss a pitch. If they kids get grumpy take them to the baseball ferris wheel that rises 50 feet or take them on the Tiger carousel. Make sure you know where you are going getting to the game, if you take a wrong turn you'vr landed in a bad location and can be tricky to get out of.

Gunther P. Jones

-- 2001-08-04

Comerica is a large place...lots of other things going on besides baseball...nice park with great seats and angles...reminds me of an "opened up" Arlington ballpark.

RC

Where to park, sit , eat and drink -- 2001-08-03

For starters, don't pay for parking. Take Woodward north past the stadium and over the I-75 overpass. There is plenty of FREE parking on the left across from the Crosswinds Townhomes. If these spaces aren't too appealing, park in Greektown and either walk or take the People Mover to the Grand Circus stop (50 cents).

For seating, it depends on how much you want to spend. I guess I would suggest the left field pavillion. These seats are $14 and offer a great view of everything. You also get a free bag of peanuts for sitting in "Bobby's Backyard". The Pepsi Fan Stands are only $8 (pizza, or hot dog and pop included) but they usually go quick. These are bleacher style seats and the last time I sat there it was "alcohol free" but I took a beer to my seat without any hassle.

And if you don't feel like spending money, get on Adams St. (centerfield) and you can watch the game from the street. Not a great view but not bad for free.

After the game, be sure to check out The Town Pump (one block west of Hockeytown), Hockeytown Cafe and the State Bar.

Dante D.

The Ramada and environs. -- 2001-07-26

We recently went to one of the Tiger-Cub games at Comerica. We stayed at the Ramada which is just a few blocks from the park. Although the area around the hotel was something out of a scary movie, the hotel itself wasn't too bad. The ballpark is beautiful. It has plenty of charm. I don't whine too much about expence's because I expect to spend money when I go somewhere. The view of the downtown area is haunting. We sat in the upperdeck third base side. Bring a pair of binoculars when sitting in the upperdeck. After the game we checked out the Greektown area. Quite a place. For all the people who think Comerica is pricey, go to one of the casino's and enjoy the $1.25 Miller Lites. Of course the food is reasonable too.

Tim Evans

Good but not great -- 2001-07-24

Not bad seats. Much outfield seating. They can get rid of the ferris wheel anytime, also the tiger heads, etc. An interesting place, VERY similar to PNC between the foul poles (outfield vista at PNC unparalleled). Park in Greektown for $5 and walk-it's cheap and you can play roulette after the day games! FJ

Flaco Jimenez

My Review of Comerica -- 2001-07-14

The first thing you'll notice if you have been spoiled of going to Tiger Stadium is how far away the seats are. The whole upperdeck isn't worth sitting in. The seats are expensive all over and some of the better seats are in leftfield and along the baselines. However, the slope in the lower deck in very gradual so you have to look over all the people to the side of you. The closer to the front you get the easier it is to see. Also there are usually a surplus of available seats that you can eventually move down to. The prices for food is rather pricy. There's a McDonald's and Little Ceasears along with a large assortment of other places to eat. Pizza's are $14 and a 20oz pop is $3. The rightfield bleacher seats may be the best deal. They're $8 and you get a free pop and hot dog. You'll want to make a stop in leftfield and take a look at the statues of Tiger greats once. They also have a ferris wheel and merry-go-round along with waterworks in centerfield. Nothing that great. Parking will cost around $15 but if you look hard enough you can find free spots along the street.In all, Comerica is much more of an amusement park than a baseball park.

Scott Bolohan

Overall -- 2001-07-06

A beautiful, beautiful ballpark hampered by a team that has been losing for 15 years and perpetual comparison to its ancestor, one of the all-time great parks. Has great sight lines, an unparalleled view, and good atmosphere (it's not a coincidence that PNC resembles it so much). Instead of trying to one-up the intimacy of Tiger Stadium, the park is wide-open - large concourses, gates looking out onto the streets, the outfield view over the fountain, etc. The park draws charm from it's size: rather than the standard post-Baltimore bandbox standard, they fences are so far out as to be intimidating to the opposing players (unfortunately, the Tiger pitchers are NOT). This forces a game of doubles rather than homers, a game quickly embraced by most of the locals. Alas, pressure from whining players have forced them to move the fences in starting in 2002 or face the possibility of never signing a power-hitting free agent again.

Kevin Robard

-- 2001-06-24

I thoroughly enjoyed the ballpark. Stunned to see only about 10,000, (they announced 17,000), folks showed up for an ESPN Sunday night game. Buy cheap seats and move down. Ushers were real lax about making you stay in your section. Check out monuments in left field area. Stadium had a nice small feel to it. I ate across the street at a place called Hockeytown so I cannot rate the food. Warning surrounding neighborhood is a pit. Bring mace or firearm.

David

Like it, but miss the upper deck of Tiger Stadium -- 2001-06-04

Nice looking park and it isn't a bandbox like most new parks. But I miss those Tiger Stadium upper deck and rooftop home runs. The only roof home runs you see these days is at those stupid catwalks in Tampa. Like the dirt path from the mound to home plate, but the dirt shaped like home plate like in San Diego has to go...it looks tacky.

David Bryant

seating -- 2001-06-04

The seats are very expensive in the lower deck, especially from 1st to 3rd. The concourse is very large with many standing viewing areas. I usually get the bleacher seats ($8 plus a free slice of pizza and pop) and grab a spot along first base and get a great view.

John Hoffman

Sit in lower deck -- 2001-05-24

Comerica Park is a very nice ballpark. There are only a few poor seating choices. If you are attending a twilight game or a day game, avoid the left field upper deck. That is the sun field for fans - bring plenty of sunscreen. The best seats are in the sections right behind the plate. For around $60 you get a free buffet and a waitstaff to keep you well lubricated thoughout the game.

pt

Paul Thebert

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