For a fun-filled family outing, head to Frisco and an evening with the Frisco RoughRiders. As American as apple pie, baseball is the quintessential family sporting event. The Frisco RoughRiders, a Double-A affiliate to the Texas Rangers, deliver baseball thrills at the fraction of the cost of a Major League Baseball (MLB) game.
The team
A member of the Texas League, the RoughRiders compete against teams from Texas and surrounding states of Oklahoma, Missouri, and Arkansas. This is great baseball, with players giving their all for a chance to be called up to the majors. Through the years, over 140 RoughRiders have gone on to careers in the MLB including greats like Nelson Cruz. And if you are a Texas Rangers fan, you still may see your favorite players here, as well. The Rangers use the RoughRiders to rehabilitate players on their injured list.
The venue
Dr. Pepper Ballpark, home to the RoughRiders, received accolades when built in 2003 and again after its 2015 renovation. It’s a modern facility with prime game viewing from its 8,000 seats. Like many other ballparks, its amenities include everything from a playground for little fans to air-conditioned, luxury entertainment suites. Unlike other ballparks, it also sports a lazy river complex out near right field. Yes, you can swim and watch a ballgame. There is even a party area for adults featuring DJ music and Deep Elum brews.
Small ball fun
With four mascots, you can expect between-inning fun. There are prairie dogs Daisy and Deuce to encourage fan participation and cheer the boys on. And Ted E. Bear and Bull Moose, giving a nod to the team’s namesake, Theodore Roosevelt’s Roughriders. From base running relays to absurd dance off contests, the franchise does its best to entertain the whole family with more than just a great ball game.
Keeping it affordable
Frisco RoughRider tickets can be more expensive than other minor league clubs. That said, a family of four can still spend an evening at the ballpark for less than $50. On Thursdays, a Dr. Pepper Fan Pack includes four tickets, four hot dogs, and four sodas for just $44. The grocery store Kroger partners with the ballpark to sell lawn tickets (that include a free hot dog) for just $7. Kroger special pricing is good for games on Sunday through Thursday. While more expensive, Flex Passes provide the option to go to any ten home games and includes food and drink with your ticket.
When you go
Dr. Pepper Ballpark is located at 7300 Roughriders Trail, Frisco. The 2019 opening day is April 4 against Midland RockHounds. The 2019 season runs from April through August with the last home game on August 25 against Northwest Arkansas Naturals. Paid parking is available on site.
Tip: Stonebriar Mall is a quarter mile away from Dr. Pepper Ballpark. The west shopping mall parking lots offer a free option to stadium parking. The area around the mall is filled with restaurants for pre- and post-game dining.