Kansas City Chiefs mania is poised to begin once again with training camp! Located in St. Joseph, Missouri, Chiefs training camp is an inexpensive, family friendly event for any and all Chiefs enthusiasts. It might not feel like football weather outside, but that won’t stop us from cheering on our home team. So grab those Mahomes jerseys, load up the car, and head north because this is an event you will not want to miss!
Tips for Making the Most of Chiefs Training Camp
Training Camp Tickets
Tickets, although free, must be reserved online via the Chiefs mobile app or website. Total tickets are limited to allow for a quality fan experience. All but three days (July 21, 27 and August 4) are free, and those dates cost $5 per ticket. Fans are allowed to reserve up to six tickets at a time, for a total of three practices. Children under three are free. The last practice for those who are not season ticket holders is August 6.
Parking
While purchasing tickets, it is smart to also arrange for parking. Five dollars will get you in to any spot around campus, simply follow the attendants staged around the area.
Pro Tip: The line to park can be cumbersome, so allow extra time to find a spot. With the limited amount of spaces, it is also common to have to walk across campus in order to get to the stadium. Dress appropriately and bring a stroller for small children.
Accessible parking is available in Lot H, as well as in front of Baker Family Fitness Center, which may be more convenient for guests requiring a level entrance.
Schedule
Practice begins at 9:15 a.m., but gates and attractions open 30 minutes prior. Practices are usually only two hours in duration, and attractions close soon after.
Pro tip: Arrive promptly at 8:45 a.m. to the ticket line to avoid long lines and blistering heat, then head straight for the fan experience to get the most out of the activities! If avoiding crowds is important, weekend training dates might not be the preferred time to attend.
Reference the daily schedule to see the positions planned to attend camp each day, as they do not all practice at once. If it is important for your little ones to see a particular player, this is a critical first step in arranging your outing. The site also lists which positions will be autographing memorabilia that day as well!
If player interaction is what your family is looking for, make your way to the field at the end of practice, where players often stop and talk with fans, sign autographs and give high-fives. Pack jerseys, footballs or memorabilia for signing opportunities, and have them ready at this time. A pro shop is on site for those who prefer to purchase during camp. Don’t forget a Sharpie!
Be warned, the line and the crowd to receive at autograph is LONG, and not everyone receives an interaction with the player due to time constraints. Prepare children ahead of time to avoid disappointment.
Attractions
Attractions for kids include: bounce houses, rock climbing, field goal kicking, football toss, drill running and obstacle courses. Kids will work up a sweat! With Midwest heat waves looming, this is another reason to arrive early.
Shade is non-existent, emphasizing the need to pack water, sunscreen, hats and cooling towels. If you feel yourself getting overheated, visit the misting tent provided on site.
Chiefs Gear
Aligning with stadium policy, only clear bags and purses are allowed on premises. I purchased this one at a local Rally House and it was a great size to stow a wallet, any purchased items, a water bottle, sunscreen and snacks. Looking for additional Chiefs gear to show your support during training camp? Here’s some favorite local stores you’ll want to hit on your way to St. Joseph:
Concessions
Concessions are available for purchase, staged in several areas around camp. Families wanting to avoid the steep concession food may want to keep a cooler in the car with a picnic lunch and extra cold beverages. No food is allowed in the stadium or tickets areas (unless needed for small children), but since camp is over around lunch time, a parking lot meal might be just the answer. Alcohol is prohibited on the MWSU parking lot.
Seating
Seating is limited and granted on a first come, first serve basis. Grassy areas near the end zones are available for families wanting to spread out, so consider bringing a small blanket that will fit in your bag.
Additional Information
- An air conditioned nursing lodge will feature a recliner, fridge, and cleaning supplies for breastfeeding mothers to feed their babies in private.
- Heat is a major concern at training camp. Stay hydrated and monitor children closely!
Have a memory-making day cheering on our Chiefs!
The only question left to answer… will Taylor make an appearance?
