Target Field
Minneapolis, MN

While some Twins fans remember baseball games outdoors at Metropolitan Stadium, others have only rooted from the Twins inside at the Metrodome.  In April 2010, for the first time since 1981, the Minnesota Twins opened a new chapter in their history as baseball is played outdoors again, this time at Target Field. The battle to build Target Field lasted over a decade, as the Twins struggled to receive funding for construction from the State of Minnesota. Talks of contraction of the team, relocation and passionate support from fans finally led state legislature to approve financing of a new ballpark in May 2006. Under the State of Minnesota's authorizing legislation, the county's share of financing the ballpark was $350 million. This covered construction and infrastructure costs. The Twins organization contributed $130 million. Nearly one year after state approval, the Twins officially unveiled plans for their new ballpark. On September 15, 2008, the Twins announced they had reached an agreement with the Target Corporation to name the ballpark Target Field. Financial terms were not released, but the partnership lasts for 25 years. 

The Minnesota Twins played and won their field game at Target Field against the Boston Red Sox on April 12, 2010. Target Field is located in downtown Minneapolis, in the Warehouse District. The ballpark reflects Minnesota's dynamic blend of urban sophistication and outdoor vitality. The facade of the ballpark consists of Minnesota limestone and a canopy that covers much of the upper deck seating. Most Twins fans will enter the ballpark through Target Plaza, a park-like gathering area located outside the right field entrance gate. This landscaped area features a 1,500 pound bronze glove, player statues of Harmon Killebrew, Rod Carew, and Kirby Puckett; a wall tribute to Minnesota ballparks, and the Metropolitan Stadium flagpole. Once inside Target Field, it is apparent that it is one of the best ballparks in baseball. Target Field features just under 40,000 seats, 18,500 seats in the lower deck, with the main three tier grandstand extending from the right field foul pole to home plate and to the left field foul pole. Between the upper and lower decks are 4,000 club seats, 60 luxury suites and the pressbox. A double decked grandstand is located in left field with additional seating in right field. Located in the northwest corner of the ballpark is the Budweiser Roof Deck that features a fire pit, bar, 150 bleacher seats and standing room for 150 fans. It provides fans with views of the Minneapolis skyline and Target Field. Additional gathering locations for fans to grab food and beverages include the Legends Club Lounge, located on the club level that pays tribute to Twins Hall of Famers, the Met Club, open to all season ticket holders that is located down the right field line and the Town Ball Tavern, a celebration of Minnesota amateur baseball that is open to all fans. Themed concessions also located throughout Target Field include the Taste of Twins territory, Hennepin Grille, Senor Smokes and Frankie V's Italian.
 

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• Tenant: Minnesota Twins
• Capacity: 39,504
• Surface: Grass
• Cost: $522 Million
• Opened: April 12, 2010
• Dimensions: 339-L, 377-LC, 411-C, 365-RC, 328-R
• Architect: Populus & HGA
• Owner: Hennepin County
• Former Name(s): None

 
Pictures: Courtesy Craig Hengel, Chris Dohman

PLANNING YOUR TRIP TO MINNEAPOLIS AND TARGET FIELD