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Vanessa Castellon

Everything You Need To Know About Petco Park (and other San Diego Venues) With Kids


The sun sets along the San Diego skyline, featuring the San Diego Convention Center and Petco Park
Source: MLB

We know that family outings require careful planning, especially when navigating venue policies. That's why we've created this comprehensive guide to approved gear and essential know-before-you-go tips for parents attending events at San Diego's major venues. From Petco Park to Viejas Arena, we've got the inside scoop to ensure your family adventure is smooth sailing from start to finish.


Panoramic of Petco Park in San Diego at a Padres game honoring veterans
Source: MLB

Approved Gear:

  • Single-compartment clear plastic bags (max 12" x 6" x 12")

  • Infant bags

  • Clutches and purses (max 5" x 7")

  • Soft-sided food containers (must comply with bag policy)

  • Factory-sealed plastic water bottles (max 1 liter/32 oz)

  • Soft-sided single juice or milk containers

Know Before You Go:

  • Cashless venue: Bring credit cards or use digital payment methods

  • Free admission for children under 36 inches (must sit on an adult's lap)

  • Sensory bags are available at Guest Service Centers

  • Strollers welcome but must not block aisles

  • Emergency contact wristbands are available for children


Panoramic view of Snapdragon Stadium in San Diego at an Aztec sports game
Source: By Spatms - Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons

Approved Gear:

  • Clear plastic or vinyl bags (max 12" x 6" x 12")

  • One-gallon clear plastic freezer bags

  • Small purses or clutches (max 4.5" x 6.5")

  • Sealed water bottles (unfrozen, max 32 oz)

  • Empty refillable water bottles (max 32 oz)


Know Before You Go:

  • Cashless venue: Credit/debit cards accepted

  • Free admission for children 2 and under (must sit on an adult's lap)

  • Baby changing tables are available in all restrooms

  • Strollers permitted (store under seat or in designated areas)

  • Parent rooms available for nursing and quiet space


View of North Island Credit Union Amphitheatre before a concert in Chula Vista
Source: By Pink Floyd Fan 101 - Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons

Approved Gear:

  • Clear bags (max 12" x 6" x 12")

  • Small clutches or wallets (max 4.5" x 6.5")

  • Sealed water bottles (max 20 oz, not frozen)


Know Before You Go:

  • Cashless venue

  • No strollers, baby carriers, or wagons permitted

  • No outside food allowed


Aerial view of The Rady Shell at Jacobs Park in San Diego
Source: The Rady Shell

Approved Gear:

  • Soft-sided bags (max 16" x 16" x 8")

  • Empty reusable plastic or aluminum water bottles


Know Before You Go:

  • No outside food or beverages are allowed

  • Strollers permitted (check with usher staff in seating area)

  • Age restrictions may apply for some concerts


View of the crowd at a concert at Cal Coast Credit Union Open Air Ampitheater
Source: SDSU Associated Students

Approved Gear:

  • Clear plastic or vinyl bags (max 12" x 6" x 12")

  • One-gallon clear plastic freezer bags

  • Small purses or clutches (max 4.5" x 6.5")


Know Before You Go:

  • Cashless venue

  • "Babes in arms" policy: Children old enough to walk need a ticket

  • No strollers allowed (car seats permitted in ticketed seats)


Edited photo of the outside of Pechanga Arena in San Diego
Source: ASM Global

Approved Gear:

  • Clear tote bags (max 12" x 6" x 12")

  • One-gallon clear plastic freezer or storage bags

  • Small clutches or wallets (max 4.5" x 6.5")

  • Baby bags, plastic baby bottles, and formula


Know Before You Go:

  • Cashless venue

  • All bags are subject to search

  • Guest Services can check oversized baby bags


Panoramic photo of an Aztec basketball game at Viejas Arena in San Diego
Source: By Kbuttysd - Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons

Approved Gear:

  • Clear plastic or vinyl bags (max 12" x 6" x 12")

  • One-gallon clear plastic freezer bags

  • Small purses or clutches (max 4.5" x 6.5")


Know Before You Go:

  • Clear bag policy in effect

  • "Babes in arms" policy for entertainment events

  • Baby changing stations available

  • No strollers allowed



Final Tip: Policies can change faster than a toddler's mood, so it's always a good idea to double-check the venue or event's website before you head out– and if you need a stroller, we have a variety you can choose from! With this guide and Destination Baby Co. in your corner, you're all set for some fantastic family memories. Now go out there and have a blast!


Two women walking along the San Diego Bay with strollers they rented from Destination Baby Co.

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