What Pro Access Tailgate parking is
Pro Access Tailgate is a parking option at certain venues and events that combines reserved parking with access to a tailgating area. You pay for a parking spot in a designated lot, and that spot typically comes with permission to set up in that same area before and after the event — meaning you can grill, set up chairs, and gather with others in your parking space without being moved along. The exact rules, pricing, and what's included vary by venue and event.
This differs from standard event parking, where you park and leave, or from general tailgating areas where parking and the tailgate zone are separate. With Pro Access Tailgate, the two are combined into one package.
Key Takeaways
- Pro Access Tailgate parking bundles a reserved parking spot with the right to tailgate in that same area before and after the event.
- Pricing, lot location, and what amenities come with your spot depend on the specific venue and event you're attending.
- You typically purchase this option when you buy tickets or through the venue's parking website, not at the gate on the day of the event.
- Rules about setup time, what you can bring, and how long you can stay in the lot after the event are set by each venue and should be confirmed before you purchase.
How to purchase Pro Access Tailgate parking
Most venues that offer Pro Access Tailgate sell it through their official ticketing or parking website. When you're buying tickets to an event, look for a parking section — it's usually a separate step in the checkout process, or a link on the event page itself. You'll see parking options listed, and Pro Access Tailgate will be one of them if the venue offers it for that event.
Some venues also sell parking through third-party vendors like StubHub or Ticketmaster's parking partner, depending on the event. The safest route is to start at the venue's own website, since that's where you'll find the most current pricing and availability. Buying in advance is standard; most venues do not hold Pro Access Tailgate spots for sale at the gate.
What to expect when you arrive
On the day of the event, you'll drive to the designated Pro Access Tailgate lot. Bring your parking confirmation — usually a digital ticket on your phone or a printed receipt — and show it to the parking attendant at the entrance. They'll direct you to your assigned spot or section. Some venues assign specific spaces; others assign you to a general area within the lot.
Once parked, you can begin setting up your tailgate. Most Pro Access Tailgate lots allow grills, chairs, tables, and coolers in your parking space. Check the venue's rules before the event to confirm what's permitted — some restrict open flames or require grills to be a certain distance from vehicles, for example. The lot typically stays open for a set period before the event (often 3 to 4 hours) and remains open after the event ends, though the exact hours vary by venue.
Pricing and what's usually included
Pro Access Tailgate parking costs more than standard event parking because you're paying for both the reserved spot and the tailgating privileges. Prices vary widely depending on the venue, the event, and demand. A popular football game might cost $50 to $150 for Pro Access Tailgate parking, while a smaller event might be $20 to $40. Some venues charge the same price regardless of which Pro Access Tailgate lot you choose; others charge more for premium lots closer to the entrance.
What's included is typically just the parking space and the right to tailgate there. Most venues do not provide tables, grills, electricity, or water — you bring your own. Some premium Pro Access Tailgate packages at larger venues may include amenities like a tent, a table, or access to restrooms, but these are less common and cost more. Always check the specific listing for the event you're attending to see what's included in the price.
Rules and restrictions you should know
Each venue sets its own rules for Pro Access Tailgate lots. Common restrictions include no open fires (grills with propane or charcoal are usually okay, but check first), no glass bottles, no kegs, and a limit on how many people can be in your space. Some venues require you to stay within your assigned parking space; others allow you to walk around the lot. Noise restrictions often explore, especially after the event ends.
Setup time is usually limited — you might be allowed in the lot 3 to 4 hours before the event starts, and you'll need to leave by a certain time after it ends (often midnight or 1 a.m.). If you plan to stay late, confirm the closing time before you purchase. Violating these rules can result in being asked to leave, losing your parking fee, or being banned from future Pro Access Tailgate purchases at that venue.
How Pro Access Tailgate differs from other parking options
Standard event parking gets you a spot to park your car, but you cannot set up a tailgate in that lot — you're expected to park and go. General tailgating areas, by contrast, are separate from parking; you park in one lot and walk to a tailgating zone elsewhere. Pro Access Tailgate combines both: your parking spot is your tailgating spot.
Premium or VIP parking packages sometimes include Pro Access Tailgate as part of a larger package that might also offer preferred lot location, closer access to the venue entrance, or additional amenities. If you're comparing options, read the fine print to see whether tailgating rights are included or whether you're just paying for a better parking location.
What to bring and how to prepare
Since you're setting up a tailgate, plan to bring a grill (if allowed), charcoal or propane, food and drinks, chairs, a table or cooler, and any entertainment you want. Bring more ice than you think you'll need — it melts faster than expected. Check the weather forecast and bring sunscreen, a pop-up tent or umbrella, and layers if it might get cold after the event.
Arrive early enough to claim your spot and set up before the lot gets crowded. Popular events can fill Pro Access Tailgate lots quickly, and parking attendants may direct late arrivals to overflow areas. Bring your confirmation on your phone or printed out, and keep it with you in case an attendant asks to verify your purchase. If you're driving a large vehicle or RV, confirm in advance that Pro Access Tailgate spots can accommodate it — some venues have size restrictions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I transfer my Pro Access Tailgate parking to someone else?
Most venues allow you to transfer the parking confirmation to another person, but policies vary. Some require the original purchaser to be present; others let you forward the digital ticket to someone else. Check the venue's transfer policy before the event, or contact their parking office directly if you're unsure.
What happens if I arrive after the lot opens?
You can still park in your assigned spot and tailgate, but you'll have less time to set up before the event starts. Arrive as early as possible to find your space and avoid congestion. If the lot is full, attendants may direct you to an overflow area, though this is rare if you've purchased Pro Access Tailgate in advance.
Can I leave and come back to my spot during the event?
This depends on the venue. Some allow you to leave and return; others require you to stay in the lot or forfeit your spot. Confirm the venue's policy before the event. If you plan to leave during the game or show, ask a parking attendant when you arrive so you know whether it's safe to do so.
Is Pro Access Tailgate parking refundable if I can't go?
Refund policies vary by venue and whether the event is rescheduled or cancelled. Most venues treat parking like tickets — non-refundable unless the event is cancelled. Check the terms when you purchase, and contact the venue's parking office if the event is postponed to ask about transferring your parking to a future date.
Do I need to purchase Pro Access Tailgate parking separately from my event ticket?
Yes, parking is almost always a separate purchase from your ticket. When you buy tickets, you'll see parking as an optional add-on. You can buy a ticket without parking, or purchase parking without a ticket if you're just tailgating and not attending the event itself, though some venues restrict this.