Few times in Minnesota Twins history has the team started out the season so strong, with a 14-7 record against some of the arguably best teams in baseball. It is hardly a coincidence that with the Twins’ unprecedented performance comes the ultimate new ballpark–Target Field–combining a spectular view of the Twin Cities skyline, more than comfortable amentities, and state-of-the-art technology.
When Target Field was inaugurated on opening day against the Boston Red Sox on April 12, it became clear to many skeptics that the $545 million price tag was more than worth it. Designed with many of the nation’s top ballparks in mind, including Fenway Stadium in Boston and PNC Park in Pittsburg, Target Field undoubtedly bests the Metrodome by ten-fold.
The concourse, which is twice as wide as the Metrodome’s, gives fans a 360-degree view of the park while perusing the many shops and food stands. With five levels of seating, Target Field provides great views of the field and Minneapolis skyline from anywhere in the park. The light rail station has also been incorporated directly in the stadium, providing fans with a convenient and fun way to enter the park.
Target Field boasts many impressive features as well, including extremely comfortable padded Legends seats as well as many other wooden-backed seats throughout the nearly 40,000 seat stadium. The new scoreboard, fourth largest in the major leagues, is certainly nothing to scoff at, a high definition screen spanning 101 by 57 feet.
Though weather has undeniably been a concern–with the regular season beginning in early April– if this year is any indication, temperatures will usually be bareable early in the season. The stadium features warming stations to take care of especially cold game days and a canopy that covers much of the stadium to protect fans from the elements. Any less-than-spectacular days will undoubtedly be made up for with the already experienced gorgeous, sunny 75-degree days, where watching outside baseball is un-paralleled.
For those sorely disappointed with the lack of “dome dogs,” Target Field offers a wide variety of culinary options as well, from multiple sit-down restaraunts, walleye fingers, Murray’s steak sandwhiches, and numerous items on a stick from the State Fair booth.
While tickets may be hard to come by, especially on beautiful Minnesota summer days, fans will be delighted with the newest edition to downtown Minneapolis and the Twins franchise. Truly combining the best aspects of ballparks across the country with unique local touches, Target Field will provide a one-of-a-kind experience to fans who have been waiting decades simply for some good ole outdoor baseball.
Dave Campbell • May 6, 2010 at 1:40 am
I’m very impressed!
First off the atmosphere is dramatically different than at the Metrodome. The bar scene is fun and it feels like a street fair before the game. Wherever you look there are cool tributes to the Twins. Statues of Pucket, Killebrew, and Carew are sweet. Banners and pictures are everywhere.
Inside is even better! It’s hard to describe but the stadium just looks cool. It’s modern yet classic. It has similarities of many classic parks yet it’s completely unique. It’s got a great view of the skyline, a cool roof deck with a fire pit that reminds me of Wrigley, a unique right field overhang, and modern signage. The limestone is completely unique.
Almost every seat has a good view and they are wider so you can actully put both arms on the arm rest without touching the person next to you. The isles are wide so your not constantly bumping into people. The concourse is wide open so you can watch the game while waiting in line for food. They have TV’s throught the concouse even though they are unnecessary. You get to hear the radio feed throughout the concouse, restrooms, and outside. The food selection is great and the lines are short despite the large crowds. The restroom wait time was non existent. The scoreboard is sharper than my big screen TV at home.
This may possibly be one of the best ballparks in baseball.