Principal Park Des Moines Bag Policy

Let’s be real: nobody wants to stand in a long line only to be told your cute little crossbody bag is a no-go. That’s the kind of buzzkill that turns a fun night at Principal Park into a grumpy ordeal. Trust me, I’ve been there, watching someone argue with a friendly gate attendant over a bag that’s two inches too big.

That’s why the Principal Park bag policy exists. It’s not meant to ruin your vibe—it’s actually your best friend for getting in fast and feeling safe. Think of it as the stadium’s way of saying, “Hey, let’s keep the focus on hot dogs and home runs, not on searching everyone’s giant tote bag.”

What’s the deal with the bags?

The official rule is simple: clear bags only, and they need to be 12” x 6” x 12” or smaller. That’s about the size of a small pillowcase or that reusable grocery bag you keep in your car. You can also bring a small clutch or wristlet that’s no bigger than 4.5” x 6.5”—so yes, your phone, lip gloss, and a couple of snacks will fit.

Non-clear bags? They’re not allowed, even if they’re tiny. I once saw a woman try to bring in a gorgeous leather backpack that barely held her wallet. She had to walk it all the way back to her car. Don’t be that person.

Why should you care?

Because time is precious, and so is your mood. Imagine rolling up to the gate with a clear bag, breezing through security, and grabbing a lemonade before the first pitch. You’ll feel like a VIP. Meanwhile, the person with the jumbo diaper bag is stuck unpacking everything while their kid screams for popcorn.

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It also keeps you from missing a moment. Last season, my buddy Jeff got held up for 20 minutes because his messenger bag had a hidden pocket. He missed a home run. A home run, people. Don’t let a bag steal your highlight reel.

What about medical or diaper bags?

Principal Park gets it—life happens. If you need a medically necessary bag or a diaper bag for a little one, you’re not stuck. Just head to the guest services gate, and they’ll inspect it and tag it for entry. It’s a small hassle that saves you from a bigger headache.

I once saw a mom with a toddler and a giant diaper backpack get waved through without a fuss. She smiled like she’d just won the lottery. That could be you—if you just plan ahead.

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How to win at the bag game

Here’s my pro tip: buy a cheap clear stadium bag online for five bucks. Tuck it in your glove compartment, and you’re always ready. Or, if you’re like my friend Sarah, just leave your bag at home and use your pockets. She fits her phone, a credit card, and a granola bar in her jacket like a season ticket veteran.

And if you’re bringing a group, do a quick “bag check” in the parking lot. I’ve done this with my crew: “Clear bag? Check. Tiny clutch? Check. Anything bigger? Back to the trunk.” We laugh, but we never get turned away.

The bottom line

Principal Park’s bag policy isn’t a spoilsport rule; it’s a secret shortcut to a better night out. It cuts the wait, keeps things easy, and lets you focus on what matters: cheering, eating a giant hot dog, and maybe catching a foul ball. So next time you head to a game, think small, think clear, and think ahead. Your future self—standing in line for a beer while others are still arguing about their backpacks—will thank you.