Citi Field, located in Queens, New York, is a modern landmark that embodies the spirit of New York Mets baseball. Since its opening, it has been celebrated for its innovative design and fan-friendly atmosphere, offering a unique baseball experience in the heart of New York City.
Stadium Facts about Citi Field
- Location: Queens, New York City, New York
- Opened On: April 13, 2009
- Home Team: New York Mets (National League)
- Stadium Nicknames: N/A
- Dimensions: Left Field – 335 feet, Center Field – 408 feet, Right Field – 330 feet
- Capacity: 41,922
- Attendance Record: 44,859 (2015, World Series Game 5)
- Surface: Kentucky Bluegrass
- Architect: Populous
- Owner: New York City
- Construction Cost: $850 million
- Renovation Costs: N/A
The History
Citi Field was constructed as a replacement for the iconic Shea Stadium, the previous home of the New York Mets. The stadium was part of a significant effort to provide a state-of-the-art baseball facility for Mets fans while revitalizing the surrounding Queens neighborhood.
Design and Features
The design of Citi Field pays homage to New York’s rich baseball heritage. It draws inspiration from the classic Ebbets Field, home of the Brooklyn Dodgers. The Jackie Robinson Rotunda, named after the legendary player, serves as the main entrance and is adorned with images and quotes celebrating Robinson’s legacy. The stadium also features a retractable roof and an intimate seating arrangement, ensuring an excellent view of the game from all areas.
Renovations
Since its inauguration, Citi Field has seen various upgrades to enhance the fan experience. These include expanded seating areas, improved amenities, and technological advancements in scoreboards and sound systems.
Facilities
Citi Field boasts an array of modern amenities, including wide concourses, a variety of dining options that reflect the diverse culinary landscape of New York, and ample restrooms. The stadium is family-friendly, with interactive play areas for children, and offers multiple fan engagement areas such as the Mets Hall of Fame & Museum.
Memorable Moments at Citi Field
- Inaugural Game in 2009: Marking a new era for the Mets.
- 2013 MLB All-Star Game: Showcasing Citi Field to a global audience.
- Johan Santana’s No-Hitter in 2012: The first in Mets history.
- 2015 World Series: Hosting Games 3, 4, and 5 against the Kansas City Royals.
- David Wright’s Final Game in 2018: An emotional farewell to the Mets’ captain.
Interesting Baseball History at Citi Field
- A New Chapter for the Mets: Representing a modern era for the team and its fans.
- Architectural Nods to History: Incorporating elements from New York’s historic ballparks.
- Environmental Initiatives: Efforts to make Citi Field one of the greenest stadiums in MLB.
- Fan-Centric Approach: Prioritizing the spectator experience with accessible seating and excellent sightlines.
Non-Baseball Events
Citi Field is not just a baseball venue; it has hosted various other significant events. Concerts featuring major international artists, soccer matches, including international exhibitions, and large-scale cultural and community events have all taken place here, underlining the stadium’s role as a multifunctional entertainment hub in New York City.