Any time you can go on a road trip to see the Jays play in a historic major league ballpark it’s a bonus. One of those ballparks is Dodger Stadium in LA.
Dodger Stadium has been the home field of the Los Angeles Dodgers since 1958. It’s located in the Chavez Ravine area of Los Angeles. The setting is picturesque. The ballpark is surrounded by palms trees and a stunning view of the San Gabriel Mountains. No wonder many fans refer to a game at Dodger Stadium as “Blue Heaven on Earth”.
The LA Dodgers field has been the stage for many playoff and World Series games against rivals such as the San Francisco Giants, Philadelphia Phillies, and the St. Louis Cardinals. In total the Dodgers have won 7 World Series championships and 24 National League pennants.
Dodger Stadium is definitely a bucket list ballpark to visit if you love baseball. To help you plan a Toronto Blue Jays travel package to Los Angeles we’ve put together this extensive guide. Before you get started here are some cool facts about Dodger Stadium:
- Built in 1962, Dodger Stadium is the third oldest ballpark in the MLB.
- Dodger Stadium has a seating capacity of 56,000, the most in the MLB.
- One of only two major league ballparks that has symmetrical outfield dimensions. Kauffman Stadium in KC is the only other one.
- The stadium seat sections are yellow, orange, sea foam and blue to represent the sun, beach, water and sky.
The first 3 things to do when planning your Toronto Blue Jays travel package to Los Angeles
1. Book your accommodations and flight
By booking your flight and hotel accommodations at the same time you will save money. To do this we suggest using Expedia. There are a few reasons why:
- The Expedia booking platform is simple and easy to use.
- By bundling your flight and hotel purchase on Expedia you can save an average of $600.
- When you sign up and become an Expedia member (it’s free) you will earn rewards points on both flight and accommodation bookings. You can then use these points to reduce the cost of booking flights and hotels for your next Toronto Blue Jays travel package.
- As an Expedia member you will save an additional 10% on select hotel accommodations.
To book your accommodation and flight at the same time go to the Expedia website. On the home page, click on “Packages” which is displayed in the main menu. (Don’t forget to sign in so you can earn your rewards points.)
A few Los Angeles hotel suggestions for your visit
Dodger Stadium is located in a residential area. This means you’ll have to stay in a hotel in downtown Los Angeles which is approximately 2-3 miles from the field. Now where should you stay? Here are a variety of suggestions to consider:
Trendy and stylish. The Line Hotel (4/5 on Trip Advisor): Located in the bustling Koreatown neighborhood. Features floor-to-ceiling windows which provide awesome views of LA. There’s an outdoor pool, furnished sun terrace, and bicycles you can rent too.
Historic and luxurious. Millennium Biltmore Hotel (4/5 on TripAdvisor): An LA landmark for over 100 years. The original Oscars ceremony was held here in 1927. The hotel’s Spanish-Italian Renaissance architecture is breathtaking.
Oh so posh. Omni Los Angeles Hotel at California Plaza (4.5/5 on TripAdvisor): This upscale hotel is in the heart of downtown Los Angeles. Sophisticated and chic. It’s also across the street from the Museum of Contemporary Art in Los Angeles.
Modern luxury. The Westin Bonaventure Hotel & Suites (4/5 on TripAdvisor): An elegant option for your visit to Dodger Stadium baseball roadtrip. Famous for being one of the most photographed hotels in the world.
So hip. Sheraton Grand Los Angeles (4.5/5 on TripAdvisor): Oozing with style and substance. Modern décor surrounds you creating a sense of sophistication. Have at least one meal in the on-site restaurant where the drinks are creative and the food is farm-to-table fresh.
Close to Union Station. DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Los Angeles Downtown (4/5 on Trip Advisor): Situated in Little Toyko and just two blocks from the free Dodger Stadium Express bus at Union Station. 50 restaurants within walking distance of the hotel too.
Tallest building in LA. InterContinental Los Angeles Downtown (4/5 on TripAdvisor): Enjoy luxury hospitality. Be sure to have a drink at Spire, the hotel bar and the highest open-air bar in the Western Hemisphere, on the 73rd floor.
Budget-friendly. Best Western Plus Dragon Gate Inn (4/5 on TripAdvisor): Located in Chinatown. It features comfortable rooms with free wi-fi and in-room mini fridge. Breakfast is included as well.
Affordable comfort. Super 8 by Wyndham Los Angeles Downtown (3.5/5 on TripAdvisor): Family-friendly and close to many of LA’s attractions and restaurant options. Breakfast and WiFi are included with your stay.
2. Buy your tickets to the game
Over the last decade the Los Angeles Dodgers have fielded a consistently competitive team. Combine that with the longtime appeal of Dodger Stadium as a destination ballpark, and it’s obvious what you need to do. When planning your Blue Jays travel package to Los Angeles be sure to buy your tickets well in advance of the Jays game at Dodger Stadium you would like to see.
Tickets can be purchased by going to the Los Angeles Dodgers website or a reseller like Stubhub or SeatGeek.
JAYS FAN INSIDER TIP: After most Friday night home games you can enjoy fireworks at the Dodgers ballpark.
Seating suggestions for your Jays vs. Dodgers game at Dodger Stadium
- Most affordable ticket: Top Deck.
- Catch-a-home-run ticket: The right field pavilion or the left field pavilion. Or the Home Run Seats section, which are two rows deep and consist of a drink rail, bar stools, and in-seat wait staff. Located on the other side of the outfield wall, in the right and left field pavilion seating areas.
- Avoid the Sun ticket: The Loge Level, second deck on the third base side of the Dodgers ballpark. Sections 130 to 168.
- Splurge: The Lexus Dugout Club seats. Rated by USA Today as the best premium seating option in Major League Baseball Sections. This is where the celebrities sit. Sections DG 1 through DG 15.
3. Include a tour of Dodger Stadium in your Toronto Blue Jays travel package
If you always include a stadium tour when you go to a major league ballpark for the first time, you’re going to love visiting Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles.
Here at the LA Dodgers home field there are three tours to pick from:
90-minute Dodger Stadium Tour: takes place from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM on game days. On non-game days it runs from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM. On this guided walkabout of the Dodgers ballpark you’ll visit the Vin Scully Press Box. You’ll stroll through the team’s trophy gallery which includes World Series trophies, and MVP, Silver Slugger, Gold Glove, Cy Young and Rookie of the Year Awards. And this tour will also get you out on the field.
Clubhouse Tour: feel like a big leaguer by going where the players go. Tour stops include the Dodgers bullpen, batting cage, weight room, and interview room and of course a peek into the Dodger clubhouse.
Photo Session Tour: want to get the perfect photo of you during your visit to Dodger Stadium? This tour will ensure that you do. This small group tour (10 people or less) is led by a personal guide who will take you to the most iconic spots in the stadium so you can get those memorable pics. Locations include the Dodger dugout, the grass in centerfield, the Vin Scully Press Box and more.
Tour tickets can be purchased at: https://www.mlb.com/cardinals/ballpark/tours
Hands on History Experience
If one of the Dodger Stadium tours isn’t enough for you, you can take your visit to the Dodgers ballpark to a whole other level by buying a ticket for the Hands on History experience.
Similar to the Hands on History experience offered at Yankee Stadium in New York, this gives you the opportunity to hold and take pictures with game-used Los Angeles Dodger jerseys, bats, helmets, and more. The experience lasts for approximately 2 hours. It’s available once a day at 1:30.
When to arrive for your game at Dodger Stadium
There’s only one road that leads to Dodger Stadium from downtown LA. Traffic can get heavy. The parking lot opens 2.5 hours prior to the start of a game. The LA Dodgers field lets fans in 2 hours before first pitch. Even so, you may want to leave for the ballpark earlier than that to avoid getting stuck in traffic.
Take the Dodger Stadium Express bus
If you don’t want to drive or take an uber or cab, there’s the Dodger Stadium Express bus. It’s free if you have a ticket for the game.
You can get on the bus at Union Station or South Bay. Buses run every 10 minutes, starting 90 minutes before game time. Return service runs for 45 minutes after the final out or 20 minutes after post-game events.
JAYS FAN INSIDER TIP: The Union Station bus uses a dedicated bus lane which helps get you to the ballpark quicker.
Things to do before your Jays game at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles
The gates to Dodgers Stadium open approximately 2 hours before game time. Here are a just a few things you can do prior to game.
Tour of the Stadium: On game days, tours of the ballpark are available from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM.
Hands on History: This experience runs once a day at 1:30 and takes two hours. Therefore you can only do it before a night game.
Giveaways and Promotions: if the Los Angeles Dodgers are giving away a bobblehead or baseball cap, plan to get down to the ballpark as soon as possible. This will give you the best chance of getting the item.
Batting Practice: more on this below in the next section.
JAYS FAN INSIDER TIPS: To commemorate your inaugural visit to Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles, you can get a “1st Dodger Game” button for free. Just stop by any of the stadium’s Fan Service Stations to pick yours up.
If you would like a “First Visit to Dodger Stadium” certificate, just email Fanfeedback@ladodgers.com and they’ll email one to you.
What time is batting practice at Dodgers Stadium?
The Dodgers usually take batting practice 3 hours prior to game time. Since the gates don’t open to let fans in until 2 hours before game time, you’ll only have the opportunity to see the visiting team i.e. , the Blue Jays, take batting practice.
Best place for autographs at the Dodgers ballpark
Your best chance at getting a player’s autograph at Dodger Stadium is during batting practice.
But, more than likely, you won’t be able to get Dodger player’s autograph. They hit the cage prior to fans getting access to the stadium.
Therefore, it will be the Blue Jays that will be taking their hacks when you’re allowed into the ballpark. Position yourself at field level along the foul lines and cross your fingers.
Don’t forget epic selfies as part of your Toronto Blue Jays travel package to Los Angeles
Adorn your social media feeds with picture proof of day at a game at Dodger Stadium. Here are some great spots outside and inside the ballpark to grab a shot:
Entrance Gates: With the team’s iconic logo and stadium name gracing the gates it makes for an awesome background.
Vin Scully Avenue Sign: Grab a pic with the sign that recognizes the most famous broadcaster in MLB history.
3 Statues: Outside the ballpark pose with statues of legendary Dodgers players Jackie Robinson and Sandy Koufax and broadcaster Vin Scully.
The Outfield: Whether it’s the unmistakable Dodger Stadium scoreboards, the palm trees, or the San Gabriel Mountains… …a photo with a view of the Dodger Stadium outfield behind you makes for a classic keepsake.
4 ballpark foods you gotta try at Dodger Stadium
Dodger Dog: The most famous hot dog in the MLB. 10 inches long, it has been a fan favorite at games at Dodger Stadium since the ballpark opened in 1962.
L.A. Taqueria: Head to this stand for street-style tacos, including carne asada, al pastor, and chicken tacos. They also offer elote (grilled Mexican street corn).
Micheladas: A cocktail made with beer, lime juice, spices, and a chili salt rim.
Churro Sundae: Warm churros topped with ice cream, whipped cream, and chocolate or caramel sauce.
Shop for a souvenir of your Toronto Blue Jays vacation package to Los Angeles
Pick up something to remember your first visit to Dodger Stadium by popping into the Official Los Angeles Dodgers Team Store.
The Los Angeles Dodgers Team store is open every day at the Top of the Park from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. During a game you’ll also find 5 other Team Stores located throughout the stadium.
The various team stores carry a wide variety merchandise to commemorate your trip to the LA Dodgers field, including:
Game-used items: baseballs, bats, jerseys, and photos, that are authenticated and certified by Major League Baseball.
Autographed memorabilia: items such as baseballs, jerseys, and photographs signed by current and former Cardinals players.
Collectible Pins and Patches: For those who prefer a unique souvenir that’s easy to pack.
Dodger Dog-themed Items: celebrate Major League Baseball’s most famous ballpark frank.
After-the-game plans to include in your Blue Jays road trip itinerary to Los Angeles
4 restaurant recommends near Dodger Stadium
Want to grab a bite before or after your game at Dodger Stadium? Here are 4 unique spots near the ballpark to go for a gnosh in LA.
Phillipe the Original: Known for its French dip sandwiches which they’ve been serving since 1908. Vintage atmosphere too.
Wurstküche: Gourmet sausages, including exotic ones made from rattlesnake and rabbit. Plus, an extensive list of suds including craft beers.
Tony’s Mexican Grill: Got a craving for classic Mexican fare? This is the place. Short walk from Dodger Stadium.
The Pie Hole: A sweet tooth home run! Rotating selection of pies. Unique flavors and creative combinations.
Sports bar recommendations for after your game at Dodger Stadium
The Short Stop: Popular sports bar with a laid-back atmosphere. Diverse music selection, pool tables, and sports on TV screens.
Jalapeño Pete’s: A sports-themed restaurant and bar known for its Tex-Mex cuisine and a range of tequila and cocktails.
Button Mash: Not a traditional sports bar—it’s an arcade with a restaurant and bar. Hang out, play retro arcade games, and enjoy craft beer.
Other things to add to your Toronto Blue Jays travel package to Los Angeles
Visiting Dodger Stadium wouldn’t be complete without adding a few other LA sports activities or tourist destinations into your plans. If you’re spending a few days in the city, here are a bunch of options to consider:
Go to another major league sports game: LA is home to two NFL football teams—the Rams and the Chargers and two NBA basketball teams–the Lakers and the Clippers. And every Jays fan knows there’s NHL hockey in LA too, with the Kings. Depending on when you plan to visit Dodger Stadium, either one of these teams could be playing. Check Stubhub or SeatGeek for tickets.
Visit the Rose Bowl: Always wanted to check out one of the most iconic college sports stadiums in the US? The Rose Bowl offers tours. Plan your trip to Dodger Stadium for the fall and you may be able to score tickets to a USC football game at the Rose Bowl.
Go to Elysian Park: A beautiful and tranquil green space right next to Dodger Stadium. Hike its trails and enjoy its natural beauty and scenic views of the city.
Chinatown: Stroll through streets, dine at authentic Chinese restaurants, and explore Chinatown shops selling everything from traditional herbs to unique gifts.
Olvera Street: Popular tourist destination that offers a glimpse into the city’s Mexican heritage. On Olvera Street you’ll find Mexican restaurants, shops, and cultural events here.
LA Live: An entertainment complex that’s abuzz with restaurants, bars, and live entertainment venues.
Griffith Observatory: Enjoy panoramic views of the city, the sun setting, stargazing, and interactive exhibits on space and astronomy.
Hollywood Sightseeing and Celebrity Homes Tour: See the famous sites you’ve seen on TV and discover where the stars live on this comprehensive tour.
Universal Studios Hollywood: Enjoy thrilling rides, shows, and movie-themed attractions.
Santa Monica Pier: While away a day enjoying the amusement park, restaurants, shops, and the beautiful Santa Monica Beach.
Venice Beach: People watch while walking the boardwalk. See street performers. And check out the famous Muscle Beach Gym.
Plus, I would suggest also checking Groupon and Viator for more money-save discounts on things to see and do in Los Angeles.
Enjoy your Toronto Blue Jays travel package to Los Angeles!
Photo Credit: Sean Pierce