Looking for an event that will get your kids buzzing with excitement? We recently took our family of five to Monster Jam at the Super Dome, and let me tell you, it was an absolutely epic experience! The roar of the engines, the massive trucks soaring through the air, the incredible stunts and crashes... it's a spectacle that lives up to the hype. But like any major event, attending Monster Jam as a family requires some planning to ensure you maximize the fun without blowing the budget or losing your sanity. My family has made Monster Jam a yearly tradition. We've seen shows in Baton Rouge, Pennsylvania and Texas. It's fair to say, we've learned a few key lessons along the way, and we're here to share our tips for making the most of your Monster Jam adventure!
Monster Jam is a fantastic experience, but ticket prices, parking, and concessions can add up quickly, especially for a larger family. Here’s how we made it more manageable:
1. Fill those tummies before you go: This is my #1 tip for any major event! Stadium food is notorious for its high prices, chicken tenders or a cheeseburger cost about $13 to $14, water or soda is about $6. Eat at home or even a restaurant outside the stadium is significantly cheaper That way, the temptation for expensive popcorn and hot dogs is significantly lower. However, if you do plan to eat at the Superdome, because the food is pretty good, just be prepared to spend $25 per person.
2. Street Parking or Third-Party Garages Are Your Friend: While parking right at the Super Dome might be convenient, the price tag can be a shock, for Monster Jam it was $65. We spent some time beforehand researching the area and were able to find street parking a few blocks away. There are budget lots on Loyola Avenue that range from $8 to $20.
3. Embrace the Pit Party... and Arrive Early! The Pit Party is a fantastic chance to get up close to the trucks and drivers. However, this is also where lines for driver autographs and photos can get incredibly long. Our advice? Arrive right when the Pit Party opens. We were able to get some great pictures and say hi to a few drivers before the crowds really picked up. If you arrive late, you might spend more time in line than you do seeing the trucks.
4. Navigating the No Re-Entry Policy: This is a crucial one to understand. There is a 1.5-hour period between when the Pit Party ends and when the main show starts, and there is absolutely NO re-entry during this time. This means that once you enter the arena, you're stuck there. This is where tip #1 becomes even more important. Since you can't run out for a quick bite, make sure everyone is comfortable and satisfied before you commit to staying inside.
Besides your tickets, there are a few key things you'll want to pack for your day at the Super Dome:
1. EAR PROTECTION IS NON-NEGOTIABLE: Seriously, Monster Jam is loud. For adults and especially for kids, ear protection is an absolute must. We brought last year's Monstern Jam ear protection, and it made the entire experience infinitely more enjoyable. Trust us on this one!
2. Remember the Clear Bag Policy: Most stadiums, including the Super Dome, have strict clear bag policies. Check the official stadium website beforehand for specific size and type requirements. The last thing you want is to be turned away at the gate because of your purse or backpack. We opted for a simple, clear stadium-approved tote, which made getting through security a breeze.
3. Wear Comfortable, Closed-Toe Shoes (and Check for Them Before You Leave!): Let our little mishap be your lesson. In the excitement of leaving, my daughter completely forgot to put her shoes on and I didn't notice until we got there! Luckily, I had long colorful socks that she could put on. While not ideal, it worked for the duration of the show. But please, for your own safety and comfort, make sure everyone wears closed-toe shoes. There's a lot of walking involved, especially with finding parking, navigating the large stadium and the dirt and rocks during the pit-party. Trust us, it’s not a fun problem to solve at the gate!
Adding an Extra Layer of Fun
Here are a few other tips we picked up along the way:
1. Get Ready to Vote! Monster Jam isn’t just about the stunts; you can be a part of the action, too! Keep your cell phones handy because they will give you the chance to vote for your favorite driver or truck during certain competitions. Our kids loved this element and felt like they were an integral part of the event. Look for instructions on the big screen or listen to the announcers for details on how to text in your votes.
Our time at Monster Jam was an unforgettable family experience. While it does take some planning and a bit of a strategic approach to manage the costs, the look on our children's faces when their favorite trucks hit the track was absolutely priceless. By following these simple tips, we hope you can create some amazing memories of your own without any unnecessary stress. Get ready for big trucks, big air, and some truly monster fun!
* This article is sponsored by Feld Entertainment, in exchange for free Tickets to Monster Jam.
