Finding parking at the Toyota Amphitheater in Wheatland, California can be a bit tricky, especially if you’re attending a major concert or event. The venue only has a limited amount of on-site parking available, so many concert-goers end up having to find parking off-site and then walk or take a shuttle to the amphitheater. Prices and parking options can also vary depending on the specific event. Here’s a breakdown of what you need to know about parking at the Toyota Amphitheater:
On-Site Parking
The Toyota Amphitheater has three main on-site parking lots:
- VIP Parking – This lot is exclusively for VIP ticket holders and those willing to pay a premium price. It offers the closest parking to the venue.
- Preferred Parking – This lot is available for advance purchase and offers parking close to the amphitheater.
- General Parking – This is the main parking area but fills up quickly for major concerts.
Prices for on-site parking vary by event but can range from $20-60 for general parking to $60-100+ for VIP and preferred parking. Parking passes usually need to be purchased in advance online.
Off-Site Parking
Since on-site parking is limited, many people park off-site at nearby lots and businesses. Some common options include:
- Sleep Train Amphitheatre Shuttle Parking – Parking areas with free shuttles to the amphitheater. Located 1.5 miles away. Shuttle parking passes are around $20.
- Local businesses – Some nearby businesses like gas stations, restaurants, and stores allow amphitheater parking in their lots for a fee.
- Neighborhood streets – You can park on local streets in the neighborhoods near the amphitheater. Be sure to obey parking signs and permits.
Prices for off-site parking vary by location but are usually in the $20-40 range.
Other Parking Tips
- Arrive early – Parking fills up quickly, so arrive 1-2 hours before showtime if possible.
- Consider ridesharing – Services like Uber or Lyft can be easier than parking.
- Check venue website – Parking prices and details will be posted on the amphitheater website for each show.
- Bring cash – Some off-site lots are cash only.
- Watch for towing signs – Don’t park where you’ll be towed.
On-Site Parking Details
Here are some more details on the on-site parking options at the Toyota Amphitheater:
VIP Parking
The VIP parking lot provides parking closest to the amphitheater for those willing to pay top dollar. Access to VIP parking requires a specific VIP parking pass. These passes are typically only available to purchase along with VIP concert tickets or event packages.
VIP parking prices range from around $100-$300+ depending on the concert or event. For very high profile shows, prices could be higher.
Benefits of VIP parking:
– Close proximity and private entry to the venue
– Avoiding regular parking lots and traffic
– VIP area entry with separate restrooms and concessions
Preferred Parking
The preferred parking lot offers parking near the amphitheater at a slightly lower price point than VIP. Preferred parking passes can be purchased in advance online and do not require VIP event tickets.
Prices for preferred parking are generally in the range of $60-$100 per pass.
Benefits of preferred parking:
– Much closer than general parking
– Faster entry to the amphitheater
– Available for purchase without VIP tickets
General Parking
General parking is first come, first served and fills up extremely quickly for major events. Passes can be purchased at the parking lot entrance on the day of the show if space is still available. General parking is not located as close to the amphitheater itself as the VIP and preferred lots.
Prices for general parking are usually around $20-$40 per vehicle depending on the event.
The key downsides of general parking are:
– No guarantee you’ll get a space
– Having to arrive very early to get a spot
– Potentially long walks from the distant spaces
Here’s a table comparing the Toyota Amphitheater’s on-site parking options:
| Parking Type | Purchase Options | Average Price Range | Proximity to Venue |
|---|---|---|---|
| VIP | Must have VIP event tickets | $100-$300+ | Extremely close |
| Preferred | Advance online purchase | $60-$100 | Very close |
| General | First come, first served | $20-$40 | More distant |
As you can see, VIP parking offers the closest spaces but requires expensive VIP concert tickets. Preferred parking is the optimal balance for many concert-goers.
Off-Site Parking Options
In addition to on-site parking, there are several off-site parking options near the Toyota Amphitheater:
Sleep Train Amphitheatre Shuttle Parking
One of the most popular parking choices is the Sleep Train Amphitheatre shuttle lots located 1.5 miles from the Toyota Amphitheater. These large parking areas provide free shuttle transportation to and from the venue.
Shuttle parking must be purchased in advance online and prices are usually around $20 per vehicle. The shuttles begin running 2-3 hours before showtime and take about 10 minutes each way.
Pros:
- Guaranteed parking spot
- Low cost
- Easy shuttle access
Cons:
- Have to wait for shuttle
- No tailgating allowed
Local Business Parking
Many businesses neighboring the amphitheater allow concert parking in their lots for a fee. Prices are generally in the $20-$40 range. Some locations may be cash only.
Popular business parking options include:
- Gas stations
- Fast food restaurants
- Grocery stores
- Strip mall shopping centers
Pros:
- More convenient than shuttle parking
- Allows tailgating at some locations
Cons:
- No guarantee of finding a space
- Need to carry cash for some locations
- Variable pricing
Neighborhood Street Parking
Many concert-goers choose to park on public streets in the residential neighborhoods surrounding the amphitheater. This option provides free parking if you can find a legal spot.
Key tips for street parking:
- Obey permit parking signs
- Don’t block driveways or fire hydrants
- Watch for tow-away zones
- Carpool when possible
- Be respectful of residents
Pros:
- Free parking
Cons:
- Very limited number of spaces
- Need to arrive extremely early
- Potential for tickets and towing
Here is a comparison table of the major off-site parking options:
| Parking Type | Price | Distance to Venue | Shuttle Access |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sleep Train Shuttle Parking | $20 | 1.5 miles | Free shuttles |
| Local Business Parking | $20-$40 | 0.5-1 mile | No shuttles |
| Neighborhood Street Parking | Free | 0-1 mile | No shuttles |
As shown, the shuttle parking provides the best value if you don’t mind the short shuttle ride. Business and neighborhood parking allow closer access but have more variability in availability and pricing.
Other Parking Tips
Beyond the specific parking lots and locations, here are some other useful tips for parking at the Toyota Amphitheater:
Arrive Early
Give yourself plenty of time to find parking and get into the venue. For sold out shows, aim to arrive 1-2 hours before showtime if possible. This will increase your chances of finding a good parking spot.
Consider Ridesharing
Using Uber, Lyft, or a taxi can be easier than parking yourself. There are designated rideshare drop-off and pickup zones at the amphitheater. Just be prepared for surge pricing after the show ends.
Check Venue Website
The Toyota Amphitheater posts up-to-date parking information and pricing details on their website for each specific event. Check here before attending a show for the latest parking updates.
Bring Cash
Some off-site parking lots are cash only, so come prepared with $20-$40 cash for parking fees. ATMs are scarce in the immediate area around the amphitheater.
Watch for Towing Signs
Be very diligent about parking restriction signs in the neighborhoods near the venue. Areas with permit parking or posted tow-away zones will tow illegally parked cars very quickly once a concert starts. Only park where legal.
Come Prepared
Make sure you have comfortable shoes for potential long walks and have essential items like your tickets, sunscreen, small bills for parking, and your event map already out so parking and entry is smooth.
Conclusion
Finding convenient parking for events at the Toyota Amphitheater requires planning ahead. On-site parking offers proximity but fills up fast and can be pricey. Off-site lots provide more availability but usually involve shuttles or longer walks. Regardless of where you park, aim to arrive early and come prepared for quick entry. With the right parking plan, you can focus on enjoying your show at this great outdoor concert venue.
