You can bring an empty water bottle into Citizens Bank Park, but not a full one
Citizens Bank Park allows you to bring an empty, clear water bottle or cup into the stadium. You can fill it at water fountains or hydration stations once you are inside. You cannot bring a bottle that is already filled with water, juice, soda, or any other beverage.
This policy exists at most major sports venues for security and revenue reasons. The stadium wants to inspect what you bring in, and it also sells beverages at concession stands. The rule applies to all guests, including children and people with medical conditions that require frequent hydration.
Key Takeaways
- Empty, clear water bottles and cups are allowed; filled bottles and outside beverages are not.
- Free water fountains and hydration stations are located throughout Citizens Bank Park for refilling.
- The policy applies to all beverages, including water, sports drinks, juice, and soda.
- If you have a medical need for a specific beverage, contact the stadium in advance to request an exception.
- Bottled water is sold at concession stands if you prefer not to use the public fountains.
Where to find water fountains and hydration stations
Citizens Bank Park has water fountains and dedicated hydration stations throughout the stadium. These are typically located near restrooms, concourse areas, and in the seating bowl. The exact locations vary by section, but stadium staff can direct you to the nearest fountain if you ask.
Hydration stations are staffed during games and events. If you bring an empty bottle, you can ask any stadium employee to fill it for you, or you can use a fountain directly. This service is free and available to all guests.
What counts as an empty bottle
An empty bottle means completely empty — no liquid inside. The bottle itself must be clear plastic or a clear cup so security can see inside it during entry screening. Opaque bottles, thermoses, or containers you cannot see through will not be allowed, even if they are empty.
The bottle can be any size, but very large containers may be subject to stadium discretion. Most people bring standard water bottles (16 to 32 ounces). If you are unsure whether your specific bottle will be allowed, contact Citizens Bank Park directly before game day.
Medical exceptions and special circumstances
If you need to bring a specific beverage for a medical reason — such as a sports drink for diabetes management or a particular electrolyte solution — contact Citizens Bank Park's guest services before you arrive. Explain your medical need and what you want to bring. The stadium may grant an exception and may ask you to provide documentation.
Do not assume your medical beverage will be allowed. Calling ahead prevents you from being turned away at the gate. Guest services can also direct you to accessible seating or other accommodations if you have mobility or health concerns related to hydration.
Beverages you cannot bring into the stadium
You cannot bring any filled beverage into Citizens Bank Park, including water, bottled water, sports drinks, juice, soda, coffee, tea, or alcohol. This applies whether you purchased the beverage outside the stadium or brought it from home. The ban covers all outside drinks, not just alcohol.
You also cannot bring glass bottles, cans, or thermoses, even if they are empty. Only clear plastic bottles and clear cups are permitted. If you arrive with a filled bottle or prohibited container, security will ask you to discard it or leave it outside the stadium.
How to plan ahead for hydration
Bring an empty, clear water bottle with you. Arrive early enough to locate a water fountain or hydration station before the game or event starts. This is especially important if you are attending with children or elderly family members who may need water during a long event.
If you prefer bottled water, the stadium sells it at concession stands, though prices are higher than outside retail. Alternatively, you can fill your bottle multiple times throughout the event at no cost. Stay hydrated, especially during warm weather games, since the stadium can get hot and crowded.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bring a water bottle with a sports drink or electrolyte powder mixed in?
No. The policy prohibits any filled beverage, including water with additives. You can bring an empty bottle and purchase a sports drink inside, or bring the powder and mix it with free water from a fountain once you are in the stadium.
What if I have a baby and need to bring formula or breast milk?
Contact Citizens Bank Park guest services before your visit. The stadium typically makes exceptions for infant formula and breast milk. Bring documentation if possible, such as a baby bottle label or a note from your pediatrician, to speed up the security screening process.
Are there water fountains in the parking lot or outside the stadium?
Water fountains may be available in some parking areas, but this varies. Your safest option is to bring an empty bottle and fill it inside the stadium. If you are arriving very early, ask a parking attendant where the nearest water source is located.
Can I bring a reusable water bottle if it is not clear?
No. The bottle must be clear plastic or a clear cup so security can inspect it. Opaque, colored, or metal reusable bottles are not allowed, even if they are empty. Bring a clear plastic bottle instead, or purchase one at a concession stand.
What happens if security finds a filled bottle in my bag?
Security will ask you to discard the beverage or leave it outside the stadium. You will not be charged a fee, but you will lose the drink. To avoid this, check your bag before entering and empty any beverages you may have forgotten about.