Even though they are in different leagues, the Toronto Blue Jays and Philadelphia Phillies have had a rivalry for decades. It started with their frequent meetings during spring training in Florida, with the Jays and Phillies home parks being minutes away from each other. But what really took the rivalry to another level was the 1993 World Series between the two teams, which the Blue Jays won thanks to Joe Carter’s unforgettable, bottom of the ninth, game winning home run.
With this kind of history it only makes sense that a die-hard Jays fan would want to hit the road to see Toronto playing the Phillies at Citizens Bank Park. To help you make the experience even more memorable we’ve put together this article. It covers everything you need to know to plan a Toronto Blue Jays package to Philadelphia.
Before you get started here are some cool facts about the Phillies stadium:
- The outfield wall at the Philadelphia Phillies ballpark has a number of angles in it. This can lead to some challenges when outfielders have to play a carom off the wall.
- Whenever the Phillies hit a home run a 35’ X 50’ Liberty Bell in right-center field lights up and rings.
- In 2004, Phillies first baseman Jim Thome hit his 400th career home run at Citizens Bank Park against the Cincinnati Reds.
- In 2010, Phillies pitcher (and former Jays hurler) Roy Halladay threw a perfect game against the Florida Marlins at Citizens Bank Park. It was the 20th perfect game in MLB history.
- Citizens Bank Park is also home to one of the world’s most famous and funniest mascots, the Phillie Phanatic. The Phanatic first appeared at a Phillies game in 1978.
The first 3 things to do when planning your Toronto Blue Jays travel package to Philadelphia
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 Philadelphia hotel suggestions near Citizens Bank Park
When you’re planning your trip to see the Blue Jays play in Philadelphia, your number one goal is to be close to the stadium so you can spend as much time as possible soaking up the atmosphere inside and outside the ballpark. Here are some Philadelphia accommodation options that are not far from Citizens Bank Park.
Historic setting. Courtyard by Marriott Philadelphia South at The Navy Yard (4.5/5 on TripAdvisor): Situated in a naval yard, adjacent to the Philadelphia Naval Shipyard Historic District. Modern, comfortable guest rooms with ergonomic work spaces and complimentary Wi-Fi.
Convenience and modern amenities. Philadelphia Airport Marriott (4/5 on TripAdvisor): Easy access to Citizens Bank Park and other attractions via I-95. Well-appointed rooms.
Rooftop pool. Wyndham Philadelphia Historic District (4/5 on TripAdvisor): Located in the historic district, providing easy access to Philadelphia’s landmarks. Short drive to Citizens Bank Park.
2. Buy your tickets to the game
The Philadelphi Phillies have had a very competitive team the last few years. Often their games at Citizens Bank Park are sold out. Therefore, if you want to guarantee yourself tickets to see the Jays, purchase them in advance of your visit. You can do so on the Philadelphia Phillies website or a reseller like Stubhub or SeakGeek.
JAYS FAN INSIDER TIP: If you’re unable to get tickets for the Jays vs. Phillies game you want to see, you’re not totally out of luck. On days where there games are sold out, the Phillies will make 500 Standing Room Only (SRO) tickets available. SRO tickets go on sale at 9:00 AM for day games and 4:00 PM for night games. Once inside, there are a lot of first-come-first-serve seating areas in the Citizens Bank Park you can snag so you don’t necessarily have to stand up for the game if you don’t want to.
Seating suggestions for your Jays vs. Phillies game at Citizens Bank Park
The field at Citizens Bank Park is set 23-feet below street level. The seating that surrounds the diamond is bowl-shaped. This means each seat is angled to face the action, so you’ll enjoy a great view no matter where you’re sitting. With that in mind, here are some seating options to consider when you’re planning your outing to Citizens Bank Park:
- Affordable ticket: The Pavilion Deck is located in the upper deck of the outfield. It’s further from the action but provides a good vantage point of the entire field at a more affordable price.
- Best view & value ticket: Field Level between the dugouts. Similar seats at most other major league ballparks are a lot more expensive.
- Catch a home run ticket: Right Field sections 101-107 or Left Field sections 140-148.
- Avoid the sun ticket: The sun tends to set behind the third-base side of the Philadelphia Phillies stadium, offering shade, especially for seats located in the Upper Deck or Terrace Level.
- Unique Ticket: Scoreboard Porch area. Provides relaxed seating area with a view of left field and an overhead view of the unique split-level, two-team bullpen.
- Splurge ticket: Hall of Fame Club, sections 212-232. Located between the dugouts. Enjoy a great view, padded seats and a full-service bar at your disposal.
3. Include a tour of Citizens Bank Park in your Toronto Blue Jays travel package
A tour of Citizens Bank Park is available during the season and off-season.
75-minutes long, the tour kicks off with an audio/visual introduction to the ballpark. That’s followed up by visiting the Phillies dugout, the broadcast booth and media room, and some of the swanky club areas. During the tour of the Phillies ballpark you’ll also learn interesting facts and stories about the stadium and the team.
JAYS FAN INSIDER TIP: Tour tickets cannot be purchased on the day of your visit to Citizens Bank Park. They must be purchased in advance. To do so, go online or call the Phillies ticket office at 215-463-1000.
Things to do before your Jays game at Citizen Bank Park in Philadelphia
The gates to Citizens Bank Park open at different times depending on what day you’re attending a Phillies game.
On Monday to Thursday, when first pitch is at 6:40 PM, all gates open at 5:35 PM. On Friday, Saturday and Sunday, all gates open 90 minutes before first pitch. Based on these times, if you want to spend some time prior to the game exploring the inside of the ballpark, you should purchase tickets for a Friday, Saturday or Sunday game.
Once inside Citizens Bank Park, there are a number of things to do and see before you take your seat for the start of the game.
Get your “first game” gift: If it’s your first time visiting the Philadelphia Phillies stadium, mark the occasion by heading over to Guest Services in Section 122. Tell them it’s your first game at Citizens Bank Park and they’ll give you a free pack of baseball cards and a certificate.
Check out Ashburn Alley: This 50,000 sq. ft. area is located just beyond the outfield seats. There is a lot going on here. Even if you haven’t brought kids with you, you should still visit The Yard. It’s an interactive kids’ area which includes a mini replica of Citizens Bank Park where kids can play wiffle ball.
Ashburn Alley is also home to the Phillies All-Star Walk. It features granite markers, one for every Phillies All-Star since 1933.
Hungry? Thirsty? You’ll find tons of food and drink options in the Alley.
And have your phone handy for snaps with the 10-foot statue of the area’s namesake, former Phillies’ player Richie Ashburn.
See the split-level bullpen: A unique feature at the Philadelphia Phillies ballpark is the side-by-side, split-level bullpen. On one side is where the Phillies pitchers warm up and on the other is where the Jays pitchers will warm up. The cool thing is there is a railing all around the top of the bullpen where you can stand and watch.
Get a Giveaway: If the Philadelphia Phillies are having a game day promotion like a bobblehead or baseball cap giveaway, the earlier you head down to Citizens Bank Park the more likely you’ll score the item before they’re all gone.
Watch Batting Practice: more on this below in the next section.
What time is batting practice at Citizens Bank Park?
Batting practice at major league baseball parks generally takes place 2.5 to 2 hours before the first pitch. Since the only days when the gates to Citizens Bank Park open 90 minutes before first pitch are Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, these are the only days that will allow you to watch batting practice.
Batting practice sessions last 45-60 minutes. The Phillies take their cuts first which means if you’re lucky enough to get in the Philadelphia Phillies baseball stadium minutes after the gates open, you’ll only get to see the Blue Jays taking their pre-game swings.
Best place for autographs at the Phillies ballpark
If scoring an autograph from a Phillies or Jays player is one of your goals when visiting Citizens Bank Park your best bet is during batting practice.
Make sure you get to the stadium when the gates open. Once inside head down to baseline sections 109-144 (Phillies’ side of the diamond) or 133-138 (the Jay’s side of the field). Have your sharpie ready. As players come and go to and from the field, they may stop to sign for you.
Don’t forget epic selfies as part of your Toronto Blue Jays travel package to Philadelphia
Both inside and outside the Phillies ballpark you’ll find selfie spots that will make for great memories of your trip to Citizens Bank Park.
In front of the marquee: Pose with the main entrance to the ballpark behind you and create a classic pic.
Beside the Liberty Bell: Located outside of the main entrance to the park, the Liberty Bell on display was salvaged from the Phillies previous field, Veterans Stadium and represents a piece of Phillies’ history.
With one of 4 players statues: Four of the Phillies’ most revered players have been honored with statues at Citizens Bank Park. Snap a pic with third baseman Mike Schmidt (Third Base Gate), pitcher Steve Carlon (Left Field Gate), pitcher Robin Roberts (First Base Gate) and center fielder Ritchie Ashburn (Ashburn Alley).
In front of the Phillies Wall of Fame: Located outside the Phillies baseball stadium in the Left Field Plaza you’ll find the Phillies Wall of Fame. It features over 40 plaques. Each one commemorates a noteworthy player or employee of the team.
Looking out towards the outfield: Stand anywhere in Citizens Bank Park where you can get the outfield and the iconic Liberty Bell in the background.
5 ballpark foods you gotta try at Citizens Bank Park
Philadelphia Water Ice: a frozen dessert that originated in Philadelphia that’s a cross between ice cream and shaved ice. It’s refreshing and the perfect balance of sweetness and tartness with a smooth, velvety texture. Flavors range from lemon and cherry to more exotic offerings like mango and passion fruit.
Philadelphia Cheesesteak: A Philly classic, the cheesesteak features thinly sliced beefsteak, melted cheese (usually American or provolone), and optional toppings like onions or peppers.
Philadelphia Pretzels: soft pretzels are a Philadelphia staple, and you can find them at various concessions throughout the ballpark. Enjoy a classic soft pretzel with mustard as a snack or side item during the game.
Bull’s BBQ: named after Phillies legendary home run hitter and left fielder Greg “The Bull” Luzinski. Signature items include pulled pork sandwiches, barbecue ribs, and other smoked meats.
Crab Fries: seasoned waffle-cut fries served with a creamy cheese sauce. A signature dish from Chickie’s & Pete’s, this unique twist on traditional fries has become a fan favorite at Citizens Bank Park.
Shop for a souvenir of your Toronto Blue Jays vacation package to Philadelphia
The New Era Phillies Team Store is located in Citizens Bank Park. It’s jam-packed with Phillies merch like apparel, bags, glasses, and lapel pins. They even carry exclusive items that can only be found at this retail outlet.
Want to buy a Phillies hat? Don’t feel bad if it takes you a while to decide. Why? Because the New Era Phillies Team Store at the Phillies ballpark is home to the largest hat wall in the country.
If you’re into the Phillie Phanatic and want a souvenir there are lots of items to choose from including plush toy versions of the lovable mascot.
Score game-used memorabilia!
Want something to really remember your game at Citizens Bank Park by? How about a game-used item?
Just head to the Phillies Authentics store on the main concourse of the Phillies stadium.
Here you can pick up collectibles and autographed memorabilia all of which has been authenticated by Major League Baseball. Items include bases, bats, helmets, jerseys, baseballs and more.
After-the-game plans to include in your Blue Jays road trip itinerary to Philadelphia
2 restaurant recommends near Citizens Bank Park
Hungry for some ideas of where you can grab a bite to eat before or after your game at the Philadelphia Phillies ballpark? Here are some dining destinations close to the ballpark for you to consider:
Xfinity Live! – Multiple Dining Options: Adjacent to Citizens Bank Park, Xfinity Live! is an entertainment complex with a range of dining options, including 5 bars and restaurants, and 3 spots for a quick bite.
John’s Roast Pork: A beloved spot in South Philadelphia, John’s Roast Pork has been serving up exceptional roast pork sandwiches and cheesesteaks since 1930. It’s a local gem known for its commitment to quality. Recommended Meal: Roast Pork Sandwich with Sharp Provolone and Spinach.
Other things to add to your Toronto Blue Jays vacation package to Philadelphia
Planning to spend a few days in Philadelphia playing tourist? Here are some of our favorite destinations and activities.
See Philadelphia’s other pro sports teams in action: depending on when you’re visiting Citizens Bank Park you may also be able to catch a Philadelphia Eagles NFL game, a Philadelphia 76ers NBA game and/or a Philadelphia Flyers NHL game. For tickets visit the teams’ websites or Stubhub or SeatGeek.
Tour the home field of the Philadelphia Eagles: if you’re a football fan, consider taking a stadium tour of Lincoln Financial Field, home of the Philadelphia Eagles. Explore the locker rooms, field, and behind-the-scenes areas.
Get to know the city: Get to know your way around the city and discover the story and sites of Philadelphia at the same time by taking a Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour.
Learn the history of the birthplace of American independence: Go on this historic walking tour of Philadelphia and hear about the historic events and sites of the city.
Run up the Rocky steps: channel your inner Rocky Balboa and run up the iconic steps of the Philadelphia Museum of Art. Take your picture with the Rocky statue at the bottom of the stairs. Then, afterwards stroll through the museum, one of the largest in the United States.
See the actual Liberty Bell: visit Independence National Historical Park and explore the birthplace of the United States, including Independence Hall, where the Declaration of Independence was signed, and the Liberty Bell, an iconic symbol of American.
Head to jail: explore Eastern State Penitentiary, a former prison turned museum that once held notorious criminals. Take a guided tour to learn about its fascinating history.
Visit the oldest residential street in America: stroll along Elfreth’s Alley, a narrow cobblestone street lined with 18th-century homes from Philadelphia’s colonial past.
Learn about the city’s haunted history: Take a nighttime Ghost Tour of Philadelphia to explore the city’s paranormal past.
Plus, I would suggest also checking Groupon and Viator for more money-save discounts on things to see and do in Philadelphia.
Enjoy your Toronto Blue Jays travel package to Philadelphia!
Photo Credit: TripAdvisor
