Citi Field

[nymdan]

I was thinking of starting this within the next few days, but since I see we have a already have a thread for Yankee Stadium, here's one for Citi Field.

We'll close the Citi Field Construction Photos thread in a few days, once the ballpark is officially complete. After that, use this thread for pictures, thoughts, etc about Citi Field in its completed form.

[mets16]

Any guesses on how many pictures posted here between March 29th and 30th? :laugh:laugh

[RayNY]

Any guesses on how many pictures posted here between March 29th and 30th? :laugh:laugh

Just reading this makes me hungry.

Food: http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20090325&content_id=4063392&vkey=news_nym&fext=.jsp&c_id=nym&partnerId=rss_nym

[CFmets09]

what happened to all the other posts that were in here? there were like 15 posts before

[johnql]

what happened to all the other posts that were in here? there were like 15 posts before

I'm guessing a moderator cleaned it up.

[Gary Dunaier]

I've started a separate thread to keep track of who's got a Citi Field Fan Walk brick and where their bricks are located. If you've got a brick, come here (http://baseball-fever.com/showthread.php?t=88776) and share it with us.

[Chevy114]

Again outsider looking in. But they did a great job! Shea was always the redheaded sister of everyone. It wasn't completely enclosed like others were, the video replay never worked properly, it was in a bad area, they had very little outfield seating. Yet people loved it. It was theres. Just like how I love the trop and other people don't get it.

They did a great job doing a 180 from anything shea, but also keeping up with the history and making it look like ebbets (which was one time obsolete lol). They also did a great job making it small and intimate! I don't get the bridge and hope they add stadiums of things like kids playing stick ball and stuff, but other than that one of the best stadiums in baseball now!

[Gary Dunaier]

Since this is going to be the "official" thread for Citi Field, I now have a place to post some images that might be of sundry interest but don't relate to either construction or ticketing issues. Don't get excited, none are ballpark photos, but I hope you'll enjoy 'em anyway...

Ticket to the April 5 workout...

http://i103.photobucket.com/albums/m124/coinboynyc/Ticket-2009-04-05b-Metsworkout-edit.jpg


Cover letter accompanying the ticket...

http://i103.photobucket.com/albums/m124/coinboynyc/Metsworkout-coverletter.jpg


Envelope in which the ticket was mailed...

http://i103.photobucket.com/albums/m124/coinboynyc/MetsWorkoutTixenvelope.jpg


My Club Mets card (digitally edited to protect the innocent) - nice, credit-card thickness and quality...

http://i103.photobucket.com/albums/m124/coinboynyc/ClubMetscard-2009c-front-edited.jpg

http://i103.photobucket.com/albums/m124/coinboynyc/ClubMetscard-2009d-back-edited.jpg


Slick-paper insert on which the card was originally attached when I received it... the insert was not folded, the vertical line down the middle on the front is just part of the design...

http://i103.photobucket.com/albums/m124/coinboynyc/ClubMetscardinsert-2009-a-front.jpg

http://i103.photobucket.com/albums/m124/coinboynyc/ClubMetscardinsert-2009-b-back.jpg


Envelope in which the card was mailed (note that postage was paid in Boston, of all places)...

http://i103.photobucket.com/albums/m124/coinboynyc/ClubMetsenvelope.jpg


Citi Field Fan Walk Brick Locator Map...

http://i103.photobucket.com/albums/m124/coinboynyc/FanwalkBricklocator.jpg


Finally, the envelope in which the Brick Locator Map was mailed... note that it was sent from Boise, Idaho of all places (not that there's anything wrong with Boise)...

http://i103.photobucket.com/albums/m124/coinboynyc/MetsFanwalkenvelope.jpg

[trucky941]

does anyone know if the st johns game is going to be on tv?

[nymdan]

does anyone know if the st johns game is going to be on tv?
Looks like it'll be streamed online:
http://www.cstv.com/media/livegame.html?the_date=2009_3_29

[Ralf]

From alpineinc

Season Tickets booklet:

http://inlinethumb03.webshots.com/45058/2878973720039674882S600x600Q85.jpg


Pre-Paid Parking booklet:

http://inlinethumb19.webshots.com/42450/2758949280039674882S600x600Q85.jpg


Parking plan on the back of every pre-paid ticket. The "Official" Lot (Gate 1) along the first base side is for Delta Club Platinum and Gold, And Metropolitan Box Platinum only, according to the letter included with my package, so Pre-Paid is along third base, and regular parking is beyond left field and beyond Pre-Paid to the west.

http://inlinethumb54.webshots.com/44021/2682334880039674882S600x600Q85.jpg

[BuddyJas]

That seems to be an awful lot of space dedicated for prepaid customers.

[Paul W]

That seems to be an awful lot of space dedicated for prepaid customers.

tho$e who pay, get to play...

[thrill5one6]

wow Gary, always lots of detail! :clapping
I got the same letters but now i feel like i got them twice

[johnql]

Figured it would be a good idea to post the Info pages of the season ticket booklet. Some of the info may not apply to everybody but there's a lot that does apply to most people. Also, some of the info has changed or is specific to CF (e.g., post-season ticket options, club admittance eligibility, different entry gates, refund/rain check policy, dress code for Acela Club Restaurant and Delta Club, etc.).

http://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu87/johnql/CF%203-24-09a/cf_info.jpg

http://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu87/johnql/CF%203-24-09a/cf_info1.jpg

http://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu87/johnql/CF%203-24-09a/cf_info2.jpg

http://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu87/johnql/CF%203-24-09a/cf_info3.jpg

[BuddyJas]

tho$e who pay, get to play...

I am not begrudging them their space. I didn't think there were that many season ticket holders to warrant that much parking space. Anybody have a breakdown of how many accounts are held by season ticket holders, along with half season and ticket plan holders?

[410 FT]

In the middle pre-paid parking lot is that a baseball diamond I see?

[Paul W]

In the middle pre-paid parking lot is that a baseball diamond I see?

shea infield...

[NeoExelor]

You guys are all suckers

Free police parking for me :silent:

[Confused]

so shea's "home plate" remembrance will be in the regular (not pre paid) lot?

[metsforever7515]

So final day for the CF Construction Thread - March 29?

[CarterShea]

does anyone know if the st johns game is going to be on tv?

I just asked Matt if the game will be broadcast on SNY and he did not know... Wish I could have helped answer this. If I found out I will update everyone.

[tfc3rid]

I just asked Matt if the game will be broadcast on SNY and he did not know... Wish I could have helped answer this. If I found out I will update everyone.

Thanks Mike... I doubt SNY would broadcast it but I am sure it will run some highlights... It will be very interesting seeing Citi from the TV camera angles should there be any broadcast...

[metsforever7515]

Thanks Mike... I doubt SNY would broadcast it but I am sure it will run some highlights... It will be very interesting seeing Citi from the TV camera angles should there be any broadcast...

I know I'm staying home on April 4 to watch the game on TV to see how it will look.

[tfc3rid]

I know I'm staying home on April 4 to watch the game on TV to see how it will look.

I'll catch the tail end of the 4/3 Red Sox game...

[metsforever7515]

I'll catch the tail end of the 4/3 Red Sox game...

I'm cutting it super close with the 4/3 game, but I think I've told this story before.

[BuddyJas]

so shea's "home plate" remembrance will be in the regular (not pre paid) lot?

looks like it is smack dab in the middle of a pre-paid lot

[CoreyNYC]

I am pretty certain that the lots that are further from the stadium will be prepaid & also general parking.

[islandxtreme26]

cool thing about the rules posted now on the Citi Field site on Mets.com

Fans will not be allowed reentry when they leave the PERIMETER GATES. This is the same at Camden Yards. This is where they make you go to smoke, as long as you are outside the structure

[OCDBuzz311]

From the Citi Field A to Z
http://newyork.mets.mlb.com/nym/ballpark/guide.jsp

RESTROOMS

Women's Restrooms
Sterling Club: (2) behind Mets and Visitor batting tunnel overlooks
Field Level: behind sections 101, 103, 111, 116, 121, 130, 132
Ebbets Club: (2) at opposite ends of club
Suite Level: Behind suites 204, 213, 217, outside business center, 230, 240
Club Level: behind sections 308, 313, 325, 329, 339 also (2) Caesars Club, Right Field Porch and Left Field Restaurant
Promenade Level: Behind sections 408, (2) opposite GA Club, 421, 430, 431

Men's Restrooms
Sterling Club: (2) behind Mets and Visitor batting tunnel overlooks
Field Level: behind sections 102, 114, 120, 124, 130, 139
Ebbets Club: (2) at opposite ends of club
Suite Level: Behind suites 204, 213, 217, outside business center, 230, 240
Club Level: behind sections 308, 313, 325, 329, 334 also (2) Caesars Club, Right Field Porch and Left Field Restaurant
Promenade Level: Behind sections 405, (2) opposite GA Club, 420, 424, 430, 437

Family Rooms
Sterling Level: (2) behind Mets and Visitor batting tunnel overlooks
Field Level: Behind sections 111, 116, 120, 124
Suite Level: Behind suites 204, 240
Club Level: Behind sections 313, 325
Promenade Level: Behind sections 408, 420, 430

Baby diaper changing tables are located in family rooms and both the Men's and Women's restrooms.


:rant::rant::rant:

Does anyone think there is a severe lack of restrooms in this place? Maybe I was just expecting to have easier access at 508.

[johnql]

Does anyone think there is a severe lack of restrooms in this place? Maybe I was just expecting to have easier access at 508.
They used to have a Shea-CF comparison page on mets.com that I don't see any more, where they indicated that there is actually an increase in restrooms.

What they do have is the following statistic:
PUBLIC TOILET FIXTURES
* 1 per 70 guests (31% increase vs. Shea)
* 646 total (14% increase vs. Shea)

[tomzpc]

From the Citi Field A to Z
http://newyork.mets.mlb.com/nym/ballpark/guide.jsp

RESTROOMS

Women's Restrooms
Sterling Club: (2) behind Mets and Visitor batting tunnel overlooks
Field Level: behind sections 101, 103, 111, 116, 121, 130, 132
Ebbets Club: (2) at opposite ends of club
Suite Level: Behind suites 204, 213, 217, outside business center, 230, 240
Club Level: behind sections 308, 313, 325, 329, 339 also (2) Caesars Club, Right Field Porch and Left Field Restaurant
Promenade Level: Behind sections 408, (2) opposite GA Club, 421, 430, 431

Men's Restrooms
Sterling Club: (2) behind Mets and Visitor batting tunnel overlooks
Field Level: behind sections 102, 114, 120, 124, 130, 139
Ebbets Club: (2) at opposite ends of club
Suite Level: Behind suites 204, 213, 217, outside business center, 230, 240
Club Level: behind sections 308, 313, 325, 329, 334 also (2) Caesars Club, Right Field Porch and Left Field Restaurant
Promenade Level: Behind sections 405, (2) opposite GA Club, 420, 424, 430, 437

Family Rooms
Sterling Level: (2) behind Mets and Visitor batting tunnel overlooks
Field Level: Behind sections 111, 116, 120, 124
Suite Level: Behind suites 204, 240
Club Level: Behind sections 313, 325
Promenade Level: Behind sections 408, 420, 430

Baby diaper changing tables are located in family rooms and both the Men's and Women's restrooms.


:rant::rant::rant:

Does anyone think there is a severe lack of restrooms in this place? Maybe I was just expecting to have easier access at 508.

Mens room behind 424! Nice! Quick access from my seats in 524! :clapping

[mandrake]

Mens room behind 424! Nice! Quick access from my seats in 524! :clapping

CF has a much better ratio of rest rooms than Shea. The older the ball park, the worse the ratio. Also, the older the ball park the far worse the ratio for women's rest rooms.

The Dallas Cowboys, to their credit. have come up with reversible restrooms. (No jokes please about urinals). Somehow, based on the actual event, men's rooms will become women's rooms. This solves problems when girls attend events like the Jonas Brothers, etc, where 90% of the patrons are females and less than 50% of the rest rooms are.

I admit that I am curious about the reversible bathrooms, but it is on their website. (I know that the Houston Summit lost a huge lawsuit regarding ladies rest room ratios, I guess Dallas is heading that off)

[JLG]

They used to have a Shea-CF comparison page on mets.com that I don't see any more, where they indicated that there is actually an increase in restrooms.

What they do have is the following statistic:
PUBLIC TOILET FIXTURES
* 1 per 70 guests (31% increase vs. Shea)
* 646 total (14% increase vs. Shea)

Do you have the stats for Mens rooms per guest Citi vs Shea? I think that I looked at that once and found there to be a decrease.
I really wish they would add Porta-Johns (I guess we both cringe at that term) for sold out games. They make some nicer ones these days.
Had to edit I was wrong; Mens room fixture ratio Citi 1 per 137 (based on 42,000) vs Shea 1 per 166 (based on 57,333).
Hope I don't miss 2 innings ever again.

[Curly SB]

I hope we get down "on" the field. It will give us a good chance to familiarize ourselves with the necessities. (beer, hotdogs, frites, bathrooms)

[nymdan]

Looks like the LF gate will be the one open 2 1/2 hours before game time, not the rotunda. They also have something about Gate C in there, that they didn't change.

[atdy17]

I hope we get down "on" the field. It will give us a good chance to familiarize ourselves with the necessities. (beer, hotdogs, frites, bathrooms)

Your bar code is showing. Please remove the image of the tickets.

[Shea120K]

Would somebody please bring back a food concessions map from the game tomorrow and scan it up here ?

[SoxfanNH]

Do you have the stats for Mens rooms per guest Citi vs Shea? I think that I looked at that once and found there to be a decrease.
I really wish they would add Porta-Johns (I guess we both cringe at that term) for sold out games. They make some nicer ones these days.
Had to edit I was wrong; Mens room fixture ratio Citi 1 per 137 (based on 42,000) vs Shea 1 per 166 (based on 57,333).
Hope I don't miss 2 innings ever again.

Wikipedia lists the stadium comparisons

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Citi_field#Stadium_comparison

[soup]

no longer under construction (at least not for today)

[kingcohn]

Yeah, construction is definetely not over!

[nymdan]

That thread is only closed temporarily so that people post pictures from today in here, not in the construction thread.

Anyway, I'm sorting through my pics now. Since there are so many of them, I think I'm just going to put them on Webshots rather than putting them on Photobucket and posting them directly here.

[soup]

Yeah, construction is definetely not over!

yeah, but I would say that the pictures coming back from today aren't construction photos!

[Onemoredayatshea27]

Today's photos won't be construction ones, but in the future with pics of ads and banners going up then it will definitely qualify.

I look forward to seeing everyone's great pics! :D

[tagvestibule]

OMG just when you thought the plexi seats couldn't get any worse...
Plexi + Rain =
(photo credit to confused)

[Confused]

pics again (http://www.felipe.net/pictures/gameminus3/index.html).

[NYBase]

There's a lot more foul territory than I thought there was.

(Picture from http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=2102054&id=36405205)

[EM0909153]

http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=2102053&id=36405205&l=0c4f092bdb
http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=2102054&id=36405205&l=dbac4c8d02

Pics from today

Re: from construction about Ceasers club.

I was positive that Ceasers club access was to ceasers club tickets only, but I heard one mets supervisor guy say that it was going to be open to everyone, have no idea if it is true, but it could create an uproar among non ceasers club members, especially being that is one cool place to hang out before a game.

[gradeck]

They just weren't being particularly vigilant about checking tickets today. Went to the Caesar's Club and Promenade Club without any problem even though my tickets didn't officially grant access.

I overheard one security guard telling people that they'd let them in "today" but when the Mets were playing they'd have to have the correct ticket to get in.

[BMF]

http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=2102053&id=36405205&l=0c4f092bdb
http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=2102054&id=36405205&l=dbac4c8d02

Pics from today

Re: from construction about Ceasers club.

I was positive that Ceasers club access was to ceasers club tickets only, but I heard one mets supervisor guy say that it was going to be open to everyone, have no idea if it is true, but it could create an uproar among non ceasers club members, especially being that is one cool place to hang out before a game.

one thing about the park I didnt like today was the limited variety in food. only burgers fries dogs pretzels. I went to the shake shack to get a shake and burger and they didnt have shakes. helllloooo its called the SHAKE SHACK not shack.. but that burger was excellent not worth 6 bucks though to small.

[nymdan]

They just weren't being particularly vigilant about checking tickets today. Went to the Caesar's Club and Promenade Club without any problem even though my tickets didn't officially grant access.

I overheard one security guard telling people that they'd let them in "today" but when the Mets were playing they'd have to have the correct ticket to get in.
I wasn't able to get into the promenade club.

[Confused]

I wasn't able to get into the promenade club.

me either.

[Atlantic Ave]

The SLR was out of town today with the fiancee, the point and shoot had a dead battery, and my blackberry photos do the stadium no justice.

It feels like we did a dozen laps around the park and watched the game just about everywhere today - my regular seats in 527, today's tickets in the Porch, 300-level padded seats behind the plate, Prom boxes, Left field field level, 3rd base dugout on the field, the tables by the bridge... other than the left field prom, where you lost a lot of the outfield, we weren't disappointed anywhere.

While there are tons of great food options and beers... some of the Danny Meyer cashier/beer folks were clueless on how to pour a proper beer. Thankfully there were plenty of folks behind the scenes overseeing and correcting the problems. I guess that's what today was for. The Brooklyn Belgian beer was pretty fantastic, fyi.

My buddy Mike and I who are generally talk all of the time found ourselves just awed and speechless for most of the afternoon. It will take a few games for CF to feel like home, but I won't mind the growing pains.

[Shbmets]

Just got home. I'd post some pics, but I don't have anything that you haven't already seen or will see later.

Some observations:

1) The place is great overall. Very intimate and fairly easy to navigate.

2) The artificial turf around the apple isn't even turf. It literally looks like the kind of indoor/outdoor carpet you would see near an above ground pool. From a distance it's tolerable (especially as the grass gets greener). Up close it looks like amateur night.

3) Bathrooms are spacious but look a little plain to me. They should all have TV's in them. I didn't see any. I didn't even notice speakers for radio play by play.

4) The outfield plaza is going to be a great place to hang out during the game. Though the wiffle ball field is a little weak. I guess they're expecting 3 years to play on it. Anyone older and it looks like there will be a lot of balls hit into the crowd on the plaza.

5) Surprised at how much parking is available where Shea was.

[CFmets09]

Don't be bashful in posting pics if you are afraid they are the same as some others. The more pics the better!

[islandxtreme26]

Getting ready to post pics - took 317 total.
I am in awe of the park. People need to stop complaining about things like the limits on concessions. This was basically a $5 self-guided tour day. Let's not split hairs.

[atdy17]

I want pics!!!

[BMF]

i have 130 photos uploading right now but im only putting the good ones up here and the ones that stood out the most. the rest you can get on my photobucket page.

[gradeck]

I wasn't able to get into the promenade club.

Guess I got lucky.

My thoughts:
It'll be really nice for weather like today, when there's some light rain. Getting concessions will be a nicer experience than getting them on the concourse.

1. The field view is only ok. Even standing right at the windows, you can't see the pitcher's mound or home plate. Maybe the edge of first and third base. Scoreboards are visible.

2. Nothing special about the food or drinks. Same stuff that you can get on the promenade concourse.

3. There's nowhere to sit. Plenty of tables to stand at and eat/drink but no chairs anywhere.

[BMF]

me either.

really? they werent stopping anyone when me and dishy was there...

[islandxtreme26]

For my BBF guys while I edit and post my plethera of pics..We got out meet together..sorry Dan and Gordon..I heard you were there but we missed you in the group shot

Foulpole, Peterrod, Tom, Me, LIMETS, Saltzy!!!, BMF, Dishy and son...and Mr. Gary Duanier behind the camera!!!

http://i640.photobucket.com/albums/uu124/chrisswann26/P3290341.jpg

[BMF]

Getting ready to post pics - took 317 total.
I am in awe of the park. People need to stop complaining about things like the limits on concessions. This was basically a $5 self-guided tour day. Let's not split hairs.

i know chris thats why I said today... I had to test out the shake shack and all these other spots everyone was raveing about for myself.

[kingcohn]

Found these pictures on flickr:

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3084/3396692458_dc66a2aba2.jpg?v=0
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3591/3395879407_4d267cea99.jpg?v=0
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3420/3395880413_403ab1da77.jpg?v=0
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3460/3395876347_a5fe9a3c4c.jpg?v=0
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3654/3395874521_6046ff2d52.jpg?v=0
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3551/3396688442_20413a8c4a.jpg?v=0

[Rob R]

I don't know if it's the weather and sparse crowd or if it's because there is too much dark green and black steel, but the interior looks dull and dreary in the photos I've seen of today's game. I expected to be a little more blown away.

I'd like to see Citi during a sunny day with a packed crowd to hopefully see if Citi Field will look more vivid.

[jpr281]

WNYW Ch. 5 is going to have a spot on the game today on the 6 pm newscast.

[islandxtreme26]

I don't know if it's the weather and sparse crowd or if it's because there is too much dark green and black steel, but the interior looks dull and dreary in the photos I've seen of today's game. I expected to be a little more blown away.

I'd like to see Citi during a sunny day with a packed crowd to hopefully see if Citi Field will look more vivid.
Here we go

[EM0909153]

For my BBF guys while I edit and post my plethera of pics..We got out meet together..sorry Dan and Gordon..I heard you were there but we missed you in the group shot

Foulpole, Peterrod, Tom, Me, LIMETS, Saltzy!!!, BMF, Dishy and son...and Mr. Gary Duanier behind the camera!!!

http://i640.photobucket.com/albums/uu124/chrisswann26/P3290341.jpg

Damn I totally forgot about the 2nd inning meetup, I realized in like the 4th inning that we would meet up, oh well. Maybe opening night BBQ or something, I know peterrod mentioned something to this effect.

[CFmets09]

dishy looks like that swimmer dara torres
http://www.imindshift.com/photos/uncategorized/2008/08/20/nm_dara_torres_070831_mn.jpg

[islandxtreme26]

dishy looks like that swimmer dara torres
http://www.imindshift.com/photos/uncategorized/2008/08/20/nm_dara_torres_070831_mn.jpg
hahaha
--------

[CFmets09]

I don't know if it's the weather and sparse crowd or if it's because there is too much dark green and black steel, but the interior looks dull and dreary in the photos I've seen of today's game. I expected to be a little more blown away.

I'd like to see Citi during a sunny day with a packed crowd to hopefully see if Citi Field will look more vivid.

:ughh..........

[allmysalvation]

Just got back.

I have to say, Citi Field is A+

The promenade doesn't suck at all, you still know you are in the higher level but you feel a lot more a part of the game than you did at shea.

The staff was top-notch today, the easy to find elevators are a great touch, and the sightlines from everywhere I sat were FANTASTIC

I can't wait to go back on Friday and hear that place cheer for the Mets :)

[Rob R]

For my BBF guys while I edit and post my plethera of pics..We got out meet together..sorry Dan and Gordon..I heard you were there but we missed you in the group shot

Foulpole, Peterrod, Tom, Me, LIMETS, Saltzy!!!, BMF, Dishy and son...and Mr. Gary Duanier behind the camera!!!

http://i640.photobucket.com/albums/uu124/chrisswann26/P3290341.jpg

Best photo yet! We get to see the faces behind the posts.

Oh, and Dishy? You're beautiful! :nod: Hope you're feeling better. :)

[Atlantic Ave]

Here we go

I'm wondering if he actually even lives in NYC. Anyone in the city would be cognizant of today's weather, and would obviously realize that it accounts for the so-called "dreariness".

I've resisted considering certain folks trolls...

[dpcv8]

Yeah, Shea really *popped* in bad weather!

:banghead:

[CFmets09]

hahaha
--------

haha doesn't she?

[Rob R]

:ughh..........
Hey, man, not trying to rain on anyone's parade (no pun intended) but it's just my impression thus far. It might change.

[JLG]

For my BBF guys while I edit and post my plethera of pics..We got out meet together..sorry Dan and Gordon..I heard you were there but we missed you in the group shot

Foulpole, Peterrod, Tom, Me, LIMETS, Saltzy!!!, BMF, Dishy and son...and Mr. Gary Duanier behind the camera!!!

http://i640.photobucket.com/albums/uu124/chrisswann26/P3290341.jpg

When were you there? I was there from the top of the 2nd through part of the third.

[Atlantic Ave]

While I was unable to get a picture on my bberry camera, from the final section of seats you could definitely see a round Mets logo on our new Apple.

[metsforever7515]

For my BBF guys while I edit and post my plethera of pics..We got out meet together..sorry Dan and Gordon..I heard you were there but we missed you in the group shot

Foulpole, Peterrod, Tom, Me, LIMETS, Saltzy!!!, BMF, Dishy and son...and Mr. Gary Duanier behind the camera!!!

http://i640.photobucket.com/albums/uu124/chrisswann26/P3290341.jpg

I SAW YOU GUYS TAKING THIS! UGH, my friends pulled me away. I met Saltz and tomzpc and got pulled away. Next time I will be there.

[CFmets09]

I SAW YOU GUYS TAKING THIS! UGH, my friends pulled me away. I met Saltz and tomzpc and got pulled away. Next time I will be there.

too cool for bbf john?:laugh

[metsforever7515]

It was amazing today. Any nay-sayers just go there and you will undoubtably change your mind.

[JLG]

While I was unable to get a picture on my bberry camera, from the final section of seats you could definitely see a round Mets logo on our new Apple.

Spoiler, I have a couple of shots where you can just make out some Blue, white and orange on the New Apple.

[Rob R]

Here we go
What, I can't express an opinion unless approved or agreed by islandextreme26? :waving

[EM0909153]

Spoiler, I have a couple of shots where you can just make out some Blue, white and orange on the New Apple.

Yea there is a mets logo on the front guys, took a look at that when I went up to the promenade 538

[DiggerODell]

For my BBF guys while I edit and post my plethera of pics..We got out meet together..sorry Dan and Gordon..I heard you were there but we missed you in the group shot

Foulpole, Peterrod, Tom, Me, LIMETS, Saltzy!!!, BMF, Dishy and son...and Mr. Gary Duanier behind the camera!!!

http://i640.photobucket.com/albums/uu124/chrisswann26/P3290341.jpg

Great photo! This photo of Gary D is exactly how I might have pictured him in my mind, had I ever thought of it . . . with a camera on his nose . . .ha! Your such a Ham Gary!!! lmao

[islandxtreme26]

haha doesn't she?
I knew she looked familiar!
No offense at all Dish! You put Dara to shame!

[metsforever7515]

too cool for bbf john?:laugh

:laugh:laugh

Opposite, I really wanted to be in this picture. Ugh, next time I will be there. Now, who's gonna be at the first Boston game?

[islandxtreme26]

What, I can't express an opinion unless approved or agreed by islandextreme26? :waving
Enough. No one said that. Troll elsewhere. I'm not bringing everyone down going back and forth.

[Rob R]

Dishy is 1,000 times prettier than Dara Torres. Not even close.

[atdy17]

:laugh:laugh

Opposite, I really wanted to be in this picture. Ugh, next time I will be there. Now, who's gonna be at the first Boston game?

I will be there.

[Yankees12]

I just got back - it was absolutely beautiful. Completely did not disappoint. I was pretty blown away by the entire ballpark.

I'll post some more in-depth thoughts later. I have some criticisms, some observations, and certainly praise for this ballpark. But I do want to say this - the Mets did an amazing job with this new park. If my team wasn't getting a new stadium too, I'd be jealous of you guys. ;)

[EM0909153]

:laugh:laugh

Opposite, I really wanted to be in this picture. Ugh, next time I will be there. Now, who's gonna be at the first Boston game?

Guess it's time for another meetup, maybe we should try before the game on Friday or opening night for those who are going.

[metsforever7515]

Guess it's time for another meetup, maybe we should try before the game on Friday or opening night for those who are going.

Before Friday would work great for me. Rotunda?

[CFmets09]

QUOTE=Yankees12;1475744]I just got back - it was absolutely beautiful. Completely did not disappoint. I was pretty blown away by the entire ballpark.

I'll post some more in-depth thoughts later. I have some criticisms, some observations, and certainly praise for this ballpark. But I do want to say this - the Mets did an amazing job with this new park. If my team wasn't getting a new stadium too, I'd be jealous of you guys. ;)[/QUOTE]

just quoting to make sure rob r reads this post:laugh

[kingcohn]

BASEBALL-FEVERS MOST DEVOTED FANS: (MINUS DAN OF COURSE)

http://www350.lunapic.com/editor/working/123833931150095?4437456303

[Confused]

i actually walk passed dishy, she was rolling through some doors. i was going to ask "dishy?" but chickened out.

ha ha

[CFmets09]

http://www350.lunapic.com/editor/working/123833931150095?1994049814

you forgot to label foulpoles daughter, foul line:laugh:laugh

[rjg7872]

Great day! Great Stadium!

Funny story... I was in the team shop with a friend who was purchasing batteries for his camera. Two AA batteries rang up as 45¢. They would sell it to him at that price. Made us go to customer service. I guess thats why we have dry runs.

[metsforever7515]

you forgot to label foulpoles daughter, foul line:laugh:laugh

Hahahahaha, that's great!

[Dishy24]

Best photo yet! We get to see the faces behind the posts.

Oh, and Dishy? You're beautiful! :nod: Hope you're feeling better. :)


Darra Torres? 1st time I've ever heard that! haha!

let me just add-- the people behind the names are wonderful-- I was stuck at the top of the JRR-- the elevator down was not working-- after my son & I went searching for another & found a service elevator & rode on that-- (ended up in a room full of Sharp Aquos TV's!) -- no idea where we were! I get back to the top of the JRR & yell down "I can't get down"-- Well-- the guys all run up to carry me down in my WC! Not wanting that --I hopped out & hopped down the staircase (with a little help) as they carried my WC behind me-- They waited for me before they would take a picture-- NICEST GUYS EVER-- Thank you!! Today was awesome! Oh, & Citi Field is amazing! I am so excited for Friday!!! When are we meeting up??? :D

[Confused]

Great day! Great Stadium!

Funny story... I was in the team shop with a friend who was purchasing batteries for his camera. Two AA batteries rang up as 45¢. They would sell it to him at that price. Made us go to customer service. I guess thats why we have dry runs.

whats with asking for id when buying with a cc?

when the guy asked for mine, i told him look at the card since it had my pic on it.

[keyman]

Just Home-

First Impressions

Got in at around noon - No problem parking - entered lots from roosevelt ave, no wait easy parking (only $5 today) Had to walk across the ruins of shea , approx from between old gate B and A. Not paved in this section, just gravel / chrushed shea. I got to stand in the approximate spot of endys catch.

Entered thru the LF gate (line at JRR was nuts), first surprise was scan your own ticket! and all the employees outside with a smile on their face and a "welcome to citi field"

Walked the field level, nice wide concourse, seemeded a little dark. good views all around lotsa good places to stand and watch the game (except behind home plate).
The sterling club seats have a seperate fence around them to keep us "commoners" out.

Bridge seating area is very cool.

Our seats were in caesars 332, right next to acela club. These are very nice seats (wish I was sitting there for more games). The caesaers club is very nice. This whole level is for ticket holders only. A rep I spoke to today said they decided at the last minute to let everyone in today. This will not be the case on friday. The bathrooms on this level are much nicer than prom level.
There are also two bars on this level that are not in the club - pretty cool.
Again great places to stand and watch the games. In the future, I think this is where I want to buy tickets.

Checked out porch area, again very cool , and a view we never had at shea. I seems like this area may also be for ticket holders only (can't confirm)

Prom level - Checked out my plan seats in 531 - they are Ok, and for what I paid I really can't complain. The prom bathrooms are no where near as nice as ceasers. The prom club was kinda underwhelming. Windows to the field yes, but I couldn't see anything from home plate to second base. Not a very big club once you've been in the caesars.

I managed to also get a 'pepsi launch t-shirt' I was excited until I unrolled it and found out it was a "Shea Stadium" left over !

All in all a good first experience - I look foward to many games at 'new' Shea

[Rob R]

just quoting to make sure rob r reads this post:laugh

And I hope that all of us walk away with that feeling.

If you disregard my posts in Cit v NYS (which is mostly done tongue-in-cheek), you'll see that I have praise and criticism, for both Citi and NYS. I'll say it again, Citi is an attractive park, and I can't wait for the day the chop shops, which are eyesores, are no longer.

I was just speaking of today's photos and prefaced it by saying the weather and sparse crowd may have something to do with it.

[metsforever7515]

Darra Torres? 1st time I've ever heard that! haha!

let me just add-- the people behind the names are wonderful-- I was stuck at the top of the JRR-- the elevator down was not working-- after my son & I went searching for another & found a service elevator & rode on that-- (ended up in a room full of Sharp Aquos TV's!) -- no idea where we were! I get back to the top of the JRR & yell down "I can't get down"-- Well-- the guys all run up to carry me down in my WC! Not wanting that --I hopped out & hopped down the staircase (with a little help) as they carried my WC behind me-- They waited for me before they would take a picture-- NICEST GUYS EVER-- Thank you!! Today was awesome! Oh, & Citi Field is amazing! I am so excited for Friday!!! When are we meeting up??? :D

Hour before gametime in the Rotunda? I really want to meet all of you.

[Oct251986]

I'm in for meeting at the Rotunda on Friday.

[islandxtreme26]

Darra Torres? 1st time I've ever heard that! haha!

let me just add-- the people behind the names are wonderful-- I was stuck at the top of the JRR-- the elevator down was not working-- after my son & I went searching for another & found a service elevator & rode on that-- (ended up in a room full of Sharp Aquos TV's!) -- no idea where we were! I get back to the top of the JRR & yell down "I can't get down"-- Well-- the guys all run up to carry me down in my WC! Not wanting that --I hopped out & hopped down the staircase (with a little help) as they carried my WC behind me-- They waited for me before they would take a picture-- NICEST GUYS EVER-- Thank you!! Today was awesome! Oh, & Citi Field is amazing! I am so excited for Friday!!! When are we meeting up??? :D
Watching you hop down those stairs was a sight! DISHY IS A TROOPER!
And hush hush...there is "no smoking" in Citi Field! ;)

[BMF]

first couple of pics

[Rob R]

I'm wondering if he actually even lives in NYC. Anyone in the city would be cognizant of today's weather, and would obviously realize that it accounts for the so-called "dreariness".

I've resisted considering certain folks trolls...

FYI, born and raised in Brooklyn, lived in Manhattan and Forest Hills, currently have a home there and a condo in CT (where my office relocated a couple of years ago from NYC). So yeah, I know NYC.

[EM0909153]

I'm in for meeting at the Rotunda on Friday.

This time hopefully I won't forgot and realize in the 4th inning the meetup was 2 innings ago.!!!!

[CFmets09]

just quoting to make sure rob r reads this post:laugh
And I hope that all of us walk away with that feeling.

If you disregard my posts in Cit v NYS (which is mostly done tongue-in-cheek), you'll see that I have praise and criticism, for both Citi and NYS. I'll say it again, Citi is an attractive park, and I can't wait for the day the chop shops, which are eyesores, are no longer.

I was just speaking of today's photos and prefaced it by saying the weather and sparse crowd may have something to do with it.[/QUOTE]

No offense, but not many people take you seriously because of your posts in the citi vs nys thread. I've noticed that you've been objective and fair in both stadium's threads though so i'm trying to take you more seriously:laugh

[nymdan]

BASEBALL-FEVERS MOST DEVOTED FANS: (MINUS DAN OF COURSE)
Yeah. I was surprised the only person I ran into was Saltzy.

[NYMets523]

I went to the game as well. It's a great stadium. However, I just had this feeling of almost disbelief. I couldn't really believe that it was the Mets' stadium. I don't really know how to explain it; it just felt weird. I'm sure that will pass over time though.

The interior felt similar to the Nationals' stadium. The field looks great (though I'm not a big fan on the awkward RF); the CF camera view makes it look similar to Wrigley.

My dad's friend is on the alumni association at St. John's and got tickets to a suite the school bought. He invited my family to go along. The suite is nice. However, I'd never do it again (costs). You feel so isolated from the game. I'll take a seat in the upper deck over that any day.

The rotunda is nice, but it doesn't belong (especially that big 42). I wish the seats were green but it will look better with people sitting in them.

Weird question but did the vendors allow you to keep the bottle caps from drinks? I always hated how they would take them away in Shea.

[TinoM24]

is the 42 plastic or marble?

[li7039]

Just Home-

First Impressions

Got in at around noon - No problem parking - entered lots from roosevelt ave, no wait easy parking (only $5 today) Had to walk across the ruins of shea , approx from between old gate B and A. Not paved in this section, just gravel / chrushed shea. I got to stand in the approximate spot of endys catch.

Entered thru the LF gate (line at JRR was nuts), first surprise was scan your own ticket! and all the employees outside with a smile on their face and a "welcome to citi field"

Walked the field level, nice wide concourse, seemeded a little dark. good views all around lotsa good places to stand and watch the game (except behind home plate).
The sterling club seats have a seperate fence around them to keep us "commoners" out.

Bridge seating area is very cool.

Our seats were in caesars 332, right next to acela club. These are very nice seats (wish I was sitting there for more games). The caesaers club is very nice. This whole level is for ticket holders only. A rep I spoke to today said they decided at the last minute to let everyone in today. This will not be the case on friday. The bathrooms on this level are much nicer than prom level.
There are also two bars on this level that are not in the club - pretty cool.
Again great places to stand and watch the games. In the future, I think this is where I want to buy tickets.

Checked out porch area, again very cool , and a view we never had at shea. I seems like this area may also be for ticket holders only (can't confirm)

Prom level - Checked out my plan seats in 531 - they are Ok, and for what I paid I really can't complain. The prom bathrooms are no where near as nice as ceasers. The prom club was kinda underwhelming. Windows to the field yes, but I couldn't see anything from home plate to second base. Not a very big club once you've been in the caesars.

I managed to also get a 'pepsi launch t-shirt' I was excited until I unrolled it and found out it was a "Shea Stadium" left over !

All in all a good first experience - I look foward to many games at 'new' Shea

so is the area of unpaved shea fenced in or can you walk through that area? if you can walk through there i wanna see if i can find a piece of concrete or something in the dirt.

[Shbmets]

For my BBF guys while I edit and post my plethera of pics..We got out meet together..sorry Dan and Gordon..I heard you were there but we missed you in the group shot

Foulpole, Peterrod, Tom, Me, LIMETS, Saltzy!!!, BMF, Dishy and son...and Mr. Gary Duanier behind the camera!!!

http://i640.photobucket.com/albums/uu124/chrisswann26/P3290341.jpg

Actually it's Shbmets between you and Saltzy! No worries. Great meeting you all.

[metsforever7515]

first couple of pics

Ohmygod. I was standing next to you when you took the one of your daughter.

[keyman]

Almost forgot...

Any other smokers out there ? ( I know, I know)

But anyway- I got chased off the top of the left field ramp by a security guy who said 'you can't smoke in the building' . I looked up at the open sky and just sighed...

Got to go all the way down to the gated area by LF gate. I Met Lenny, a 42 year shea vet who also smokes, nice guy.

We really need at least a TV down there.

[BMF]

more pics........

[Rob R]

No offense, but not many people take you seriously because of your posts in the citi vs nys thread. I've noticed that you've been objective and fair in both stadium's threads though so i'm trying to take you more seriously:laugh

LOL..I hear ya, but to be honest, I think some Mets fans know my intent, and that was to drive a couple of blatant Mets fans who were trolling (I won't mention names) out of the NYS thread and into Citi vs NYS. It worked to an extent, and at the same, I got under the skins of those same Met fans trolling in the NYS thread. I love the irony.

[nymdan]

Here are 156 of my pictures:
http://sports.webshots.com/album/570741768HhCAwe

[CFmets09]

LOL..I hear ya, but to be honest, I think some Mets fans know my intent, and that was to drive a couple of blatant Mets fans who were trolling (I won't mention names) out of the NYS thread and into Citi vs NYS. It worked to an extent, and at the same, I got under the skins of those same Met fans trolling in the NYS thread. I love the irony.

btw is that your girl in your avatar? very nice, even better if she took that hat off though:waving

[Rob R]

more pics........
Great photos, BMF. I love the old pics of Robinson and his family.

[BMF]

more pics.........

[Rob R]

btw is that your girl in your avatar? very nice, even better if she took that hat off though:waving

LOL....thanks, but the hat is what makes her. (Ducking)

[CFmets09]

what do they have at blue smoke?

[mets16]

Just got home... All I have to say is this place is beautiful. I can't believe it's ours. I got there around 11, and walked around looking at the bricks,etc. Then when we got in, I took a walk around the field level, had my buddy snap a few shots of me down there. Walked the concourses, and finally grabbed a Nathans dog. We then looked around the Prom behind home plate, and I catch a guy snapping shots through the fence and the chairs and say, That's gotta be Gary. He turns around and it is! I yell, "Hey Gary!" He turns around I introduce myself, we talk about the place and how nice it is. We say our goodbyes and I ask for one good "Manhattan" post, he gives me a good one. Fast forward: We go to the Caesars level, and I look around. See the "Press Lounge" I get curious, then walk in. I take a few quick glances, then see "Visitor TV Booth". I open the door and close it. I am now in the press box. All alone. So I call my friend in to take some pictures of me. Now I can remember this forever.
I'm pissed that I passed up the T-Shirt& Hat, they sold out. But All in all, it was great and I can't wait for the first game. Pics to follow.

[CFmets09]

LOL....thanks, but the hat is what makes her. (Ducking)

haha it's better to look at than rob schneider or whoever the hell you had as your avatar before:laugh

[njmeadowlanders]

We'll start with the gripes and get to the likes and pictures later on this evening after dinner:

Just want to say:

- There's a LOT of wasted space it seems out in the corners of the concourses and down by the bullpen plaza.

- The stadium was maybe 40% full at best and the concourse was very crowded at places and at times with walking traffic. Could be a problem.

- PUDDLES. There were a TON of puddles and standing water throughout the park. I walked on that little ledge in front of the LF Restaurant and my feet got SOAKED...the ramps had a lot of puddles, some seats had some standing water under them, I don't get how that could happen in a project like this...

Now that I got the worst out of the way, the good stuff will follow after I fill my gut.

[BMF]

Ohmygod. I was standing next to you when you took the one of your daughter.

hahah:laugh:laugh:laugh it was a lil cold when it was raining out there :rainy: but at about 2pm it kinda warmed up. then the st johns bullpen went in to typical queens tradition and started to meltdown

[CFmets09]

We'll start with the gripes and get to the likes and pictures later on this evening after dinner:

Just want to say:

- There's a LOT of wasted space it seems out in the corners of the concourses and down by the bullpen plaza.

- The stadium was maybe 40% full at best and the concourse was very crowded at places and at times with walking traffic. Could be a problem.

- PUDDLES. There were a TON of puddles and standing water throughout the park. I walked on that little ledge in front of the LF Restaurant and my feet got SOAKED...the ramps had a lot of puddles, some seats had some standing water under them, I don't get how that could happen in a project like this...

Now that I got the worst out of the way, the good stuff will follow after I fill my gut.

puddles are pretty hard to prevent....my feet were soaked walking around cbp too

[metsforever7515]

hahah:laugh:laugh:laugh it was a lil cold when it was raining out there :rainy: but at about 2pm it kinda warmed up. then the st johns bullpen went in to typical queens tradition and started to meltdown

Haha. Alright I HAVE to meet all of you on Friday.

[nymdan]

- The stadium was maybe 40% full at best and the concourse was very crowded at places and at times with walking traffic. Could be a problem.
But keep in mind people are actually going to be watching the game usually, not walking the concourses. There were probably more people in the concourses than there were in the seats. There was just one spot where I thought traffic was a problem--underneath the LF reserved, the cash registers for the concessions were too far out into the concourse, and people moved slowly there.

[tomzpc]

one thing about the park I didnt like today was the limited variety in food. only burgers fries dogs pretzels. I went to the shake shack to get a shake and burger and they didnt have shakes. helllloooo its called the SHAKE SHACK not shack.. but that burger was excellent not worth 6 bucks though to small.

They definitely had limited food items today at all the vending areas. They even had temporary menus up with "coming soon" stickers plastered onto the real menus. We ate at the Shake Shack today too. The burger was good but like you said it isn't very big. It was a decent burger though. About the same quality as a "Five Guys" burger or a "Red Rooster" (for those of you who have been to Brewster NY) burger. The Brooklyn Ale that they had on tap at Shake Shack was excellent. It really ruined the two watery Budweisers that I had afterwards but I'm not much of a Bud fan to begin with. I can be a bit of a beer snob. I prefer real beer. :D

[TinoM24]

puddles are pretty hard to prevent....my feet were soaked walking around cbp too

yeah CBPs drainage system is very unique. there are these little gutters in the upper decks that pretty much create a waterfall onto the lower decks during torrential downpours. is the drainage at citi the same as this?

[tomzpc]

I wasn't able to get into the promenade club.

Hmm...when I went into the Caesar's and later in the Prom they were lettinjg everyone into both places. The only thing I can think of is maybe you went at a busy time so they decided to start controlling the number of people in there.

[CFmets09]

what do they have at blue smoke?

[TinoM24]

from peoples pics i saw that all it said on the menu today was a pulled pork sandwich

[BMF]

last set the rest you can go into my photobucket the last pic even saltzy would say is obstructed:clapping

forgot to mention that bat dishy is holding up is the inaugural season april 3rd bat that should not be out yet... go dishy. your son is cool die hard mets fan and great kid.....

[NYMets523]

- The stadium was maybe 40% full at best and the concourse was very crowded at places and at times with walking traffic. Could be a problem.

- PUDDLES. There were a TON of puddles and standing water throughout the park. I walked on that little ledge in front of the LF Restaurant and my feet got SOAKED...the ramps had a lot of puddles, some seats had some standing water under them, I don't get how that could happen in a project like this...

You need to take into account that it was a college game and the weather was crummy. Also, I'd say at least 50% of the people who went there did not go to watch the game; they went to walk around the park (hence the crowded concourse).

I went to a Met/Brewer game in Milwaukee in 2007. It has a similar concourse. During the game, the concourse was not very crowded. I do not think it will be a problem during the season.

As for the puddles, they can't make it puddle-proof. I only noticed a considerable amount of water on the 3B area of the concourse. I think the number of people walking around contributed to it. The majority of people were there to walk around than to sit in their seats and watch the game.

[Rob R]

haha it's better to look at than rob schneider or whoever the hell you had as your avatar before:laugh
Oh, that was a photoshop of Rosie O'Donnel's head on that hairy terrorists body. One last scare (and my last off-topic post, promise):

http://i178.photobucket.com/albums/w241/fafafooey69/TerroristCapturedATT00034.jpg

[mets16]

Here we go:

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3580/3396878110_5f82239c69_b.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3550/3396880404_775fb53a04_b.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3447/3396914184_b44bd81942_b.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3472/3396095781_32b3e29acb_b.jpg

That's good for now. On a side note: I'm a pretty easy going guy, but I got water on my feet and it ruined my day. I still took pictures, but it wasn't comfy.

[BMF]

Haha. Alright I HAVE to meet all of you on Friday.

ha sorry im going saturday:crazy

[CFmets09]

oh when it was smaller I could of sworn it was rob schneider haha....citi field is awesome

[johnql]

Here's a link to my full album:

http://s636.photobucket.com/albums/uu87/johnql/CF%20St%20John%203-29-09/

I will post highlights here directly.

Overall, it was a great day. The rain held off (for the most part). Got to meet Dishy, BMF, and foulpole - sorry I didn't get down to the Rotunda sooner for the group pic.

No problem getting into either the Promenade Club or Caesars Club. Tickets weren't checked at either door.

[EM0909153]

We'll start with the gripes and get to the likes and pictures later on this evening after dinner:

Just want to say:

- There's a LOT of wasted space it seems out in the corners of the concourses and down by the bullpen plaza.

- The stadium was maybe 40% full at best and the concourse was very crowded at places and at times with walking traffic. Could be a problem.

- PUDDLES. There were a TON of puddles and standing water throughout the park. I walked on that little ledge in front of the LF Restaurant and my feet got SOAKED...the ramps had a lot of puddles, some seats had some standing water under them, I don't get how that could happen in a project like this...

Now that I got the worst out of the way, the good stuff will follow after I fill my gut.

Most people were there to get a tour of the stadium, when we are all there at opening day seats will be filled up, I have a feeling a few prom people will move down and stand down at field level.

[metsforever7515]

ha sorry im going saturday:crazy

Ah, eventually.

[stadiumbuilder]

Oh, that was a photoshop of Rosie O'Donnel's head on that hairy terrorists body. One last scare (and my last off-topic post, promise):

http://i178.photobucket.com/albums/w241/fafafooey69/TerroristCapturedATT00034.jpgThat may be the funniest photoshop job I've ever seen!:laugh:clapping

[CFmets09]

BMF can you link your photobucket page? thanks

[playforpay]

Was anyone else dissapointed in the lack of esclators to the promenade? I would expect one right near the JRR, but the nearest ones are pretty far down the right and left field concourse lines. My ticket plans seats are promenade level right behind home plate- so I'm either going to be walking up like 4 flights or taking an elevator. Shea seemed to have a ton more esclators.

[metsforever7515]

Here's all my pictures from today. All 350 something of them.

http://picasaweb.google.com/metsforever7515/20090329001?authkey=Gv1sRgCJTi29GqvJuQ4wE#

[johnql]

Nice touch with blue and orange balloons at the subway staircase.
http://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu87/johnql/CF%20St%20John%203-29-09/IMG_5488.jpg

Entering the Rotunda.
http://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu87/johnql/CF%20St%20John%203-29-09/IMG_5506.jpg

http://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu87/johnql/CF%20St%20John%203-29-09/IMG_5507.jpg

http://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu87/johnql/CF%20St%20John%203-29-09/IMG_5508.jpg

http://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu87/johnql/CF%20St%20John%203-29-09/IMG_5509.jpg

[keyman]

A very proud Jeffy...

[Rob R]

Haven't seen everyone's photos, but met16's, johnq's and BMF's make Citi look more attractive. I think that I was looking at some Yahoo photos that didn't look as vivid. CF is looking very nice.

[johnql]

http://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu87/johnql/CF%20St%20John%203-29-09/IMG_5511.jpg

http://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu87/johnql/CF%20St%20John%203-29-09/IMG_5512.jpg

http://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu87/johnql/CF%20St%20John%203-29-09/IMG_5513.jpg

http://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu87/johnql/CF%20St%20John%203-29-09/IMG_5514.jpg

http://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu87/johnql/CF%20St%20John%203-29-09/IMG_5515.jpg

[BMF]

BMF can you link your photobucket page? thanks

http://s92.photobucket.com/albums/l7/reemowilliams/

hope this works

[BMF]

http://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu87/johnql/CF%20St%20John%203-29-09/IMG_5511.jpg

http://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu87/johnql/CF%20St%20John%203-29-09/IMG_5512.jpg

http://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu87/johnql/CF%20St%20John%203-29-09/IMG_5513.jpg

http://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu87/johnql/CF%20St%20John%203-29-09/IMG_5514.jpg

http://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu87/johnql/CF%20St%20John%203-29-09/IMG_5515.jpg

i got those too buddy

[johnql]

http://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu87/johnql/CF%20St%20John%203-29-09/IMG_5516.jpg

http://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu87/johnql/CF%20St%20John%203-29-09/IMG_5517.jpg

http://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu87/johnql/CF%20St%20John%203-29-09/IMG_5518.jpg

http://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu87/johnql/CF%20St%20John%203-29-09/IMG_5527.jpg

http://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu87/johnql/CF%20St%20John%203-29-09/IMG_5536.jpg

[johnql]

Batting cages
http://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu87/johnql/CF%20St%20John%203-29-09/IMG_5539.jpg

http://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu87/johnql/CF%20St%20John%203-29-09/IMG_5540.jpg

Dunk tank
http://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu87/johnql/CF%20St%20John%203-29-09/IMG_5544.jpg

http://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu87/johnql/CF%20St%20John%203-29-09/IMG_5545.jpg

http://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu87/johnql/CF%20St%20John%203-29-09/IMG_5547.jpg

[MSchvatz44]

Just got back from Citi Field, and i must say the place is absolutely stunning. People really are not lying when the say that the pictures do it no justice.

i toke a ton of pictures so they will be up eventually, and when they are i will post the link.

one quick note, before i went into the stadium, i was walking around the outside of the park. when i got to the left field entrance, while i was taking pictures of the banners, i was interviewed by some guy from the new york post. i didnt catch his last name, but his first name was arthur i believe. now, i dont see his name under columnists on the nypost website, but he did have an official press pass that said he was from the new york post.

he interviewed me for a solid 7 minutes or so, asking me how i felt about the whole park, and i talked some history of the banners with him. i also managed to plug this website, citing it as the place that i got most of my info from.

im hoping he writes the article tommorow. he asked for my name, age, and school i go to so it seemed pretty official. it would be awesome if he writes it.

oh, and did i mention the entire park is aboslutely stunning? you really dont notice the bad ad's at all, u barely focus on them.

pics coming soon...

[Confused]

Was anyone else dissapointed in the lack of esclators to the promenade? I would expect one right near the JRR, but the nearest ones are pretty far down the right and left field concourse lines. My ticket plans seats are promenade level right behind home plate- so I'm either going to be walking up like 4 flights or taking an elevator. Shea seemed to have a ton more esclators.

i wonder what the assigned gate for promenade patrons will be. it cant be jrr, cause you will be walking up many a stairs.

are the elevators for everyone?

btw, did anyone notice a time piece at cit. i was wondering what time it was, and looked around the stadium and didnt notice a time piece.

did i miss it?

[metsforever7515]

i wonder what the assigned gate for promenade patrons will be. it cant be jrr, cause you will be walking up many a stairs.

are the elevators for everyone?

btw, did anyone notice a time piece at cit. i was wondering what time it was, and looked around the stadium and didnt notice a time piece.

did i miss it?

Ends of the LED boards and bottom right corner of the RF board.

[johnql]

Wiffle ball field
http://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu87/johnql/CF%20St%20John%203-29-09/IMG_5552.jpg

http://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu87/johnql/CF%20St%20John%203-29-09/IMG_5553.jpg

http://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu87/johnql/CF%20St%20John%203-29-09/IMG_5562.jpg

http://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu87/johnql/CF%20St%20John%203-29-09/IMG_5564.jpg

http://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu87/johnql/CF%20St%20John%203-29-09/IMG_5568.jpg

[nymdan]

A few random thoughts. I'm sure I'll think of more later:

1) They didn't let me bring a sealed Poland Spring bottle in. BS. And when I asked the security person whether or not I could fill up a plastic thermos/water bottle and bring that in, she said she didn't know.

2) I like the "World's Fare" area with Mama's of Corona, the sushi place, etc, but they need to come up with a better way of placing the cash registers, because anybody could just walk out of there with food. Also, they should have some signs on the outside so we know what's inside.

3) Box Frites was good (though I wasn't crazy about the dipping sauce I got). My friend tried El Verano Taqueria, or whatever the Mexican place is called. He said it was really good.

4) The scoreboard is plenty big, and with the linescore at the bottom, the image above is widescreen.
http://img4.imageshack.us/img4/488/242qtl.jpg

[johnql]

http://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu87/johnql/CF%20St%20John%203-29-09/IMG_5570.jpg

Acela Club (Left Field) Restaurant
http://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu87/johnql/CF%20St%20John%203-29-09/IMG_5571.jpg

http://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu87/johnql/CF%20St%20John%203-29-09/IMG_5575.jpg

http://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu87/johnql/CF%20St%20John%203-29-09/IMG_5578.jpg

http://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu87/johnql/CF%20St%20John%203-29-09/IMG_5580.jpg

[Confused]

A very proud Jeffy...

he should be, but i guess no more free peanuts or popcorn from wilpon senior during 7 inning stretch.

[Onemoredayatshea27]

John- There's just one yellow car... FAIL!

:laugh:laugh:laugh

BTW I noticed the jerseys in the store had the alternate Citi Field patch... was the domino's one on their also or was it just the alternate and the Mets logo?

[johnql]

Inside the World's Fare Market:
http://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu87/johnql/CF%20St%20John%203-29-09/IMG_5581.jpg

http://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu87/johnql/CF%20St%20John%203-29-09/IMG_5582.jpg

http://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu87/johnql/CF%20St%20John%203-29-09/IMG_5583.jpg

Black & whites turned into Blue & oranges:
http://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu87/johnql/CF%20St%20John%203-29-09/IMG_5584.jpg

http://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu87/johnql/CF%20St%20John%203-29-09/IMG_5585.jpg

[TinoM24]

from johnql:
http://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu87/johnql/CF%20St%20John%203-29-09/IMG_5509.jpg

I could see this causing crowd control problems if left as is. cant they control the escalators to make them both go the same direction?

[njmeadowlanders]

puddles are pretty hard to prevent....my feet were soaked walking around cbp too

True, some are hard to prevent, but in some places (especially in front of that restaurant) they were significantly deep...like pull up your pant legs and tip toe through deep.

They were also pretty bad like that on the upper portions of the LF ramps...

Here's a quick sample of my favorite shots of the afternoon:

Fred Wilpon entered the Rotunda around the time I was coming back from the 42...i just grabbed the camera and shot it as quickly as I could:

http://i93.photobucket.com/albums/l48/njmeadowlanders/P1000560.jpg

METS Skyline Script Up Close and Personal:

http://i93.photobucket.com/albums/l48/njmeadowlanders/P1000595.jpg

The Bridge:

http://i93.photobucket.com/albums/l48/njmeadowlanders/P1000590.jpg

RF Overhang:

http://i93.photobucket.com/albums/l48/njmeadowlanders/P1000633.jpg

Bullpen, Apple, & Bridge

http://i93.photobucket.com/albums/l48/njmeadowlanders/P1000650.jpg

7-Train Waiting Game:

http://i93.photobucket.com/albums/l48/njmeadowlanders/P1000686.jpg

So Long:

http://i93.photobucket.com/albums/l48/njmeadowlanders/P1000681.jpg

[Confused]

from johnql:
http://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu87/johnql/CF%20St%20John%203-29-09/IMG_5509.jpg

I could see this causing crowd control problems if left as is. cant they control the escalators to make them both go the same direction?

they did eventually.

[mets16]

A few random thoughts. I'm sure I'll think of more later:
2) I like the "World's Fare" area with Mama's of Corona, the sushi place, etc, but they need to come up with a better way of placing the cash registers, because anybody could just walk out of there with food. Also, they should have some signs on the outside so we know what's inside.

I went into the "Worlds Fare" to buy a drink. I bought a "Mtn Dew" and expected for them to take my cap. I used to bring caps to Shea after countless spills. I was happy to see that there caps allowed. My friend was like "why aren't any of these people just walking out without paying?" I agreed but I guess thats why they have "dry runs." I also noticed the staff are alot more friendlier than Shea. I got more "How you doin's" than I expected.

[BMF]

from johnql:
http://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu87/johnql/CF%20St%20John%203-29-09/IMG_5509.jpg

I could see this causing crowd control problems if left as is. cant they control the escalators to make them both go the same direction?

yeah they were changing it constantly when I was there. as dan said the boards are plenty big not as big as yankee but it more than does the job.

[metsforever7515]

John- There's just one yellow car... FAIL!

:laugh:laugh:laugh

BTW I noticed the jerseys in the store had the alternate Citi Field patch... was the domino's one on their also or was it just the alternate and the Mets logo?

:laugh:laugh:laugh That's why I took the lot one.

And no, only that patch was on it. But the Pepsi Party Patrol people had the Domino's one on their jerseys.

[johnql]

Still inside the World's Fare Market:
http://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu87/johnql/CF%20St%20John%203-29-09/IMG_5586.jpg

Picnic tables outside the World's Fare Market:
http://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu87/johnql/CF%20St%20John%203-29-09/IMG_5589.jpg

http://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu87/johnql/CF%20St%20John%203-29-09/IMG_5594.jpg

Bar on the Excelsior level
http://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu87/johnql/CF%20St%20John%203-29-09/IMG_5597.jpg

Alyssa's shop
http://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu87/johnql/CF%20St%20John%203-29-09/IMG_5599.jpg

[njmeadowlanders]

John- There's just one yellow car... FAIL!

:laugh:laugh:laugh

BTW I noticed the jerseys in the store had the alternate Citi Field patch... was the domino's one on their also or was it just the alternate and the Mets logo?

The REPLICA jerseys sport the alternate patch, while the authentics have the Domino...

[metsforever7515]

I went into the "Worlds Fare" to buy a drink. I bought a "Mtn Dew" and expected for them to take my cap. I used to bring caps to Shea after countless spills. I was happy to see that there caps allowed. My friend was like "why aren't any of these people just walking out without paying?" I agreed but I guess thats why they have "dry runs." I also noticed the staff are alot more friendlier than Shea. I got more "How you doin's" than I expected.

Almost everyone said "Welcome to Citi Field!" to me.

[nymdan]

I went into the "Worlds Fare" to buy a drink. I bought a "Mtn Dew" and expected for them to take my cap. I used to bring caps to Shea after countless spills. I was happy to see that there caps allowed. My friend was like "why aren't any of these people just walking out without paying?" I agreed but I guess thats why they have "dry runs." I also noticed the staff are alot more friendlier than Shea. I got more "How you doin's" than I expected.
My friend bought a water and the cap was removed.

[Confused]

I went into the "Worlds Fare" to buy a drink. I bought a "Mtn Dew" and expected for them to take my cap. I used to bring caps to Shea after countless spills. I was happy to see that there caps allowed. My friend was like "why aren't any of these people just walking out without paying?" I agreed but I guess thats why they have "dry runs." I also noticed the staff are alot more friendlier than Shea. I got more "How you doin's" than I expected.

that's why i took a pic (http://www.felipe.net/pictures/gameminus3/target236.html) of the pepsi bottle i bought at worlds fare. i was shocked.

not the question is will the walking vendors follow.

[islandxtreme26]

from johnql:
http://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu87/johnql/CF%20St%20John%203-29-09/IMG_5509.jpg

I could see this causing crowd control problems if left as is. cant they control the escalators to make them both go the same direction?
The one on the right was shut off. It will be on with the other on game days

[BMF]

I went into the "Worlds Fare" to buy a drink. I bought a "Mtn Dew" and expected for them to take my cap. I used to bring caps to Shea after countless spills. I was happy to see that there caps allowed. My friend was like "why aren't any of these people just walking out without paying?" I agreed but I guess thats why they have "dry runs." I also noticed the staff are alot more friendlier than Shea. I got more "How you doin's" than I expected.

really???? they took mine from my water!!!!!! nice take a 4 year old cap away from her water... when I first entered the left field gate and went to get my daughter a pretzle, they couldnt open their register so I had to wait 15 minutes b4 they got it right the manager came over and said we apologize still working the kinks out. then they moved me to another register and then it worked... the other girl did the dance of joy while the first girl saulked.....

[johnql]

Looking down on Swoboda's silhouette
http://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu87/johnql/CF%20St%20John%203-29-09/IMG_5605.jpg

A foggy Out-of-Town Scoreboard
http://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu87/johnql/CF%20St%20John%203-29-09/IMG_5606.jpg

http://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu87/johnql/CF%20St%20John%203-29-09/IMG_5611.jpg

Closed-captioning on the LED board
http://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu87/johnql/CF%20St%20John%203-29-09/IMG_5613.jpg

Picnic tables on the Promenade plaza
http://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu87/johnql/CF%20St%20John%203-29-09/IMG_5616.jpg

[islandxtreme26]

God...140 posts in 3 1/2 hours here. sheesh.

[johnql]

Inside the Promenade Club
http://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu87/johnql/CF%20St%20John%203-29-09/IMG_5622.jpg

http://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu87/johnql/CF%20St%20John%203-29-09/IMG_5624.jpg

http://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu87/johnql/CF%20St%20John%203-29-09/IMG_5625.jpg

A pitiful makeshift on-deck circle
http://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu87/johnql/CF%20St%20John%203-29-09/IMG_5637.jpg

http://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu87/johnql/CF%20St%20John%203-29-09/IMG_5642.jpg

[mets16]

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3648/3396968152_8f4ef81daa_b.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3453/3396967322_e48dace67f_b.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3586/3396996362_66e557f81e_b.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3604/3396975830_261e256169_b.jpg

[VekterNYM]

Back when I first started coming to this site, one of the biggest questions was "How is the Rotunda going to be when it rains if they have the arches open?"

So how was that? I see in the pictures that the floor is wet from people walking, but what about the rain coming in?

Food-wise, I hope that Shake Shack is comparable to the one in Madison Sq. Park - as I am a big fan of the original. I'll more than likely find out Friday & Saturday.
Also, Box Frites - I hope they have a mango sauce like at Pommes Frites in Manhattan. If they based the idea of Box Frites similar to that then - I pray. Otherwise I'll find out this weekend as well.

The pictures look amazing, and I can't wait to see this place this weekend. I'm psyched. Thanks for taking so many over the course of Citi Field's growth, I know I will be filling up my memory card this weekend.

[Yankees12]

Okay, here are some more in-depth thoughts on Citi Field. I'll try to keep this post organized - it's tough to write down everything in my head after taking in a park for the first time like I did today.

Citi Field always looked nice in pictures, but I'd say it definitely came off even nicer in person. Very beautiful park - from the concourses to the exterior to the inside of the park, it is extremely well done.

The Rotunda looks extremely nice - I love the quotes on the floor, the pictures and corresponding words on the wall, and the staircases on each side. The blue "42" is a nice touch as well. The entire area around home plate, from the Rotunda to the pictures around the entrances to the Ebbets Club, absolutely drip of Dodgers/Ebbets Field nostalgia. Outside of this area, however, it really isn't everpresent, and Mets history certainly is honored.

The bridge and the Pepsi Porch look fantastic. Really nice touch - I love the flagpoles in front of the Pepsi-Cola sign. There was also a huge line to take pictures with the old apple from Shea - having it accessible to people and up close and person was a great move. Seeing the bullpens right there was pretty cool too, although I'm not as much of a fan of how they look from the field.

The Excelsior level concourse is definitely the nicest of the 3 main concourses, IMO. I absolutely loved the lighting in there. So much nicer than plain flourescent lights or the like. The Caesar's Club was also magnificent - it's too bad that won't be open to the public most of the time.

The turf around the apple wasn't quite as bad as I thought it'd be from a distance, but up close it really did not match. Would definitely benefit by being replaced by shrubs/grass/whatever. Also, the "hole" for the apple was of course painted black, which made it flow with the wall a lot better.

The area of the upper deck concourse above the Rotunda was very nice as well - great place to hang out before the game, although there's no view of the field.

Now for some criticisms. The LED obstruction wasn't quite as bad as it could have been, although I didn't really sit back in either seat I looked at it from, since they were soaking wet. Still, from a seat way down the 3rd base line, almost all of LF was cut off. Totally unacceptable for a new park.

The upper deck concourse was pretty cramped, and you couldn't utilize the part of the concourse that wasn't beneath the stands, since the staircases and support beams for the upper deck were there. In areas where there were concessions, there were some bottlenecks and space to move around was very limited.

Parts of the ballpark are a bit isolated from the rest of the park, and aren't as accessible as they should be. There's not enough escalators to the Excelsior or Promenade levels, IMO. Also, the part of the Excelsior level that is beyond the restaurant/club in the LF corner is completely isolate from the rest of that level and is hard to get to. To get to it from the Excelsior concourse, you have to go all the way up to the Promenade concourse, walk down that towards LF, and eventually take a staircase back down.

Also, the plexiglass on the stairs leading up to the top part of the upper deck are sure to be a major distraction, especially when raining like today. I greatly prefer the use of portals as in NYS than staircases on the outside like in Citi.

All that said, this is a very nice park that's extremely well-designed and very pleasing to the eye. I've been to 18 stadiums in my lifetime now (OYS, Shea, Riverfront, the Vet, CBP, PNC, Fenway, Jacobs, GABP, Wrigley, the Cell, Miller, Dodger, Angel, PETCO, RFK, Camden, and now Citi), and I'd say this is likely the 3rd best post-1990 park I've been to yet, behind PNC and Camden (and being behind those 2 is no slight). I can't wait to go to a Mets game here once it's entirely complete, and there's actually an ML game going on. As I said before, I'd be jealous of all of you Met fans if the Yanks weren't getting a new stadium too. ;)

[johnql]

Menu inside the Promenade Club
http://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu87/johnql/CF%20St%20John%203-29-09/IMG_5645.jpg

http://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu87/johnql/CF%20St%20John%203-29-09/IMG_5646.jpg

http://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu87/johnql/CF%20St%20John%203-29-09/IMG_5647.jpg

Down to the Caesars Club
http://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu87/johnql/CF%20St%20John%203-29-09/IMG_5649.jpg

http://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu87/johnql/CF%20St%20John%203-29-09/IMG_5650.jpg

[johnql]

Still inside the Caesars Club
http://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu87/johnql/CF%20St%20John%203-29-09/IMG_5651.jpg

http://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu87/johnql/CF%20St%20John%203-29-09/IMG_5652.jpg

http://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu87/johnql/CF%20St%20John%203-29-09/IMG_5653.jpg

http://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu87/johnql/CF%20St%20John%203-29-09/IMG_5655.jpg

http://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu87/johnql/CF%20St%20John%203-29-09/IMG_5657.jpg

[islandxtreme26]

http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/news/story?id=4025642

While the Mets finish up spring training in Florida, 22,397 fans -- many with cameras in hand -- ignored the wet and chilly weather Sunday to explore the new stadium and watch Georgetown use a four-run seventh inning to beat St. John's 6-4 in a college baseball game. The schools were hoping to break the NCAA attendance record -- 40,106 at Petco Park in 2004 for a game between San Diego State and Houston -- but the raw weather likely kept many fans away. The crowd was the seventh-largest for a baseball game in NCAA history.

[mets16]

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3638/3396195749_2193d6a648_b.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3474/3396200117_488356a7e2_b.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3471/3396204741_2a68585e34_b.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3623/3396199681_7461aaa474_b.jpg

[CFmets09]

ughh this looks so nice....
http://lh6.ggpht.com/_1VFYPt4aL0I/Sc_66LDOYeI/AAAAAAAAAFU/n8RAkOOgEIA/s640/IMG_3498.JPG

[Jim Vaz]

YES!!!

They got this place so right!!!

Beautiful park!

Great pics folks! Thank you!!

I can't wait until I'm there!!!

[johnql]

Views from a Caesars Club window
http://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu87/johnql/CF%20St%20John%203-29-09/IMG_5661.jpg

http://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu87/johnql/CF%20St%20John%203-29-09/IMG_5662.jpg

Back to the Rotunda. My niece posing with the "42"
http://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu87/johnql/CF%20St%20John%203-29-09/IMG_5671.jpg

http://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu87/johnql/CF%20St%20John%203-29-09/IMG_5673.jpg

http://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu87/johnql/CF%20St%20John%203-29-09/IMG_5674.jpg

[nymdan]

Almost everyone said "Welcome to Citi Field!" to me.
They also said "Welcome to Shea" on Opening Day, but by the third game or so, the programmed friendliness was gone.

[Jim Vaz]

Maybe I'm not the worst one to note it, but all the ads actually don't look that bad when you add in the fans. It all fits together, its actually not overdone...
:clapping:clapping

[johnql]

Available in the Team Store in the Rotunda
http://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu87/johnql/CF%20St%20John%203-29-09/IMG_5680.jpg

Self-service kiosks weren't running yet.
http://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu87/johnql/CF%20St%20John%203-29-09/IMG_5681.jpg

Mr. Met celebrating during the 7th inning stretch
http://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu87/johnql/CF%20St%20John%203-29-09/IMG_5695.jpg

The Pepsi Patrol were on duty today
http://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu87/johnql/CF%20St%20John%203-29-09/IMG_5696.jpg

http://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu87/johnql/CF%20St%20John%203-29-09/IMG_5697.jpg

[reyes_7]

Most people were there to get a tour of the stadium, when we are all there at opening day seats will be filled up, I have a feeling a few prom people will move down and stand down at field level.

Emo respond to my PMs. Lol

[kingcohn]

ughh this looks so nice....
http://lh6.ggpht.com/_1VFYPt4aL0I/Sc_66LDOYeI/AAAAAAAAAFU/n8RAkOOgEIA/s640/IMG_3498.JPG

Murphy.. wow
he's one of the big names already?

[johnql]

Mr. Met (look for the big head) gets mobbed during the 7th inning stretch near the Big Apple seats.
http://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu87/johnql/CF%20St%20John%203-29-09/IMG_5698.jpg

Leaving
http://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu87/johnql/CF%20St%20John%203-29-09/IMG_5700.jpg

One last look back at JRR
http://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu87/johnql/CF%20St%20John%203-29-09/IMG_5701.jpg

[Dishy24]

last set the rest you can go into my photobucket the last pic even saltzy would say is obstructed:clapping

forgot to mention that bat dishy is holding up is the inaugural season april 3rd bat that should not be out yet... go dishy. your son is cool die hard mets fan and great kid.....

Thanks Big Man-- Let me say that not only is Brianna to prettiest little girl-- she is the most well behaved 4 year old I HAVE EVER MET! It was so nice to meet up today!!!

PS-- The bat is on ebay... J/K :D

[BuddyJas]

[QUOTE=Shbmets;1475692]Just got home. I'd post some pics, but I don't have anything that you haven't already seen or will see later.

Some observations:


3) Bathrooms are spacious but look a little plain to me. They should all have TV's in them. I didn't see any. I didn't even notice speakers for radio play by play.


If they had Tvs in the mens' rooms everybody would be forced to wear Wellingtons.

[metsforever7515]

Murphy.. wow
he's one of the big names already?

Yup:

http://i254.photobucket.com/albums/hh82/fightinitalian21/IMG_3582.jpg

[GordonGecko]

Was at the game today, saw Saltzy, nice guy. Didn't get a chance to meet other people but there will be other games. My overall impression is that it's a much better park than CBP in Philly. Saltzy brought up the issue about branding, and after thinking about it I think there's a severe lack of "Metsness" to the place. If you ask me what the place reminds me of most, I'd have to say Arthur Ashe Stadium right across the tracks. I think some blue and orange decor throughout the place would really do some good. The orange home run line is a nice touch.

I was a bit blown away by the view from the right field area (Right Field Reserved, Baseline Box, Pepsi Porch), GREAT place to watch from. I was also very pleased with the upper deck sight lines just past the bases, aka 504/524 sections, you do feel on top of the field. The only problem I saw there was the closest corner of the outfield was cut off. Well that, and the terrible staircases we already knew about. Also there were some drainage problems with pools of water in hallways and for some reason the black lines at the edge of the upper deck staircases were already ripped away in lots of places.

I also checked out row 17 of my weekday plan seats in 512, VERY pleased, seriously there's almost no bad seats anywhere behind the plate ("almost" because seats behind the portholes have people coming up the Aisles blocking you constantly).

Caesar's club was nice, but seriously there's no poisnt to it. It's just a lounge that doesn't face the field at all, why not just hang out in a nice bar in midtown instead. Also saw lots of broken furniture and dirty tables there, guess that's what happens when you let the Plebians loose in the King's quarters HA HA.

Promenade Club was OK, but nothing special. Not worth the money at all IMO, you can't even see the plate from the window if you happen to manage to get through the crowds.

Shake Shack burgers lived up to the hype ($5.75 x 2 later), but they didn't have the shakes available yet, I'll have to wait a bit for those. The whole area in the back of the outfield had a great vibe, way better than CBP. Kids were having a great time everywhere, the place is super fan friendly.

I like it, but it needs more Metsness.

[BMF]

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3648/3396968152_8f4ef81daa_b.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3453/3396967322_e48dace67f_b.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3586/3396996362_66e557f81e_b.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3604/3396975830_261e256169_b.jpg

is that 301 in the porch? my seats are awesome thanks robert

[BMF]

Back when I first started coming to this site, one of the biggest questions was "How is the Rotunda going to be when it rains if they have the arches open?"

So how was that? I see in the pictures that the floor is wet from people walking, but what about the rain coming in?

Food-wise, I hope that Shake Shack is comparable to the one in Madison Sq. Park - as I am a big fan of the original. I'll more than likely find out Friday & Saturday.
Also, Box Frites - I hope they have a mango sauce like at Pommes Frites in Manhattan. If they based the idea of Box Frites similar to that then - I pray. Otherwise I'll find out this weekend as well.

The pictures look amazing, and I can't wait to see this place this weekend. I'm psyched. Thanks for taking so many over the course of Citi Field's growth, I know I will be filling up my memory card this weekend.

overall I gotto say the rotunda held up... there was a guy on standby with a mop though

[JustinBerl]

http://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu87/johnql/CF%20St%20John%203-29-09/IMG_5647.jpg

Too funny, the blonde haired guy is one of my closest friends

[kimthemetschick]

one thing about the park I didnt like today was the limited variety in food. only burgers fries dogs pretzels. I went to the shake shack to get a shake and burger and they didnt have shakes. helllloooo its called the SHAKE SHACK not shack.. but that burger was excellent not worth 6 bucks though to small.

http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1167660231#/photo.php?pid=1677683&id=616125368

I dunno, I was pretty impressed. I didn't get a picture of the seafood stand (shrimp po' boys and lobster rolls!! Damn!!)

[keyman]

My photos....

http://www.flickr.com/photos/mikeavena/

[kimthemetschick]

overall I gotto say the rotunda held up... there was a guy on standby with a mop though

I noticed a leak on the way out, right near the escalator (at the top of it, obviously)

[Confused]

[QUOTE=Shbmets;1475692]Just got home. I'd post some pics, but I don't have anything that you haven't already seen or will see later.

Some observations:


3) Bathrooms are spacious but look a little plain to me. They should all have TV's in them. I didn't see any. I didn't even notice speakers for radio play by play.


If they had Tvs in the mens' rooms everybody would be forced to wear Wellingtons.

there was a tv in the mens bath room in the Caesars club. i would of taken a pic, but there were ppl in there and i didnt want to get arrested. would i been the first? ha ha

anyhow. this is the portal pic (http://www.felipe.net/pictures/portal.JPG) i wrote about. this is what you see when trying to reach the web using the "guess" wap.

[metsforever7515]

http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1167660231#/photo.php?pid=1677683&id=616125368

I dunno, I was pretty impressed. I didn't get a picture of the seafood stand (shrimp po' boys and lobster rolls!! Damn!!)

Shaky hand, sorry.
http://i254.photobucket.com/albums/hh82/fightinitalian21/IMG_3643.jpg

[BMF]

[QUOTE=johnql;1475904]Views from a Caesars Club window

http://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu87/johnql/CF%20St%20John%203-29-09/IMG_5662.jpg

QUOTE]

I didnt even notice the inter locking ny in the planters

[Dishy24]

i actually walk passed dishy, she was rolling through some doors. i was going to ask "dishy?" but chickened out.

ha ha

Did you at least hold the door open for me??? :)

Next time, please say "hi"!!

[tomzpc]

A few random thoughts. I'm sure I'll think of more later:

1) They didn't let me bring a sealed Poland Spring bottle in. BS. And when I asked the security person whether or not I could fill up a plastic thermos/water bottle and bring that in, she said she didn't know.


Interesting. Wonder what the official policy is. I brought in a backpack full of snacks for the kids that had 4 sealed poland spring water bottles. The security guy looked inside, asked me if I had any glass and then waved me inside. That would suck if they started enforcing the "no lids" policy like at Giants stadium.

[mets16]

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3645/3397032476_8d00dcebce_b.jpg

Press lounge
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3607/3397036156_2f6e6bddde_b.jpg

Found this... (Visitors TV Booth).
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3422/3397037544_c71e3928a5_b.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3558/3397038462_57d78e121f_b.jpg

[Confused]

Did you at least hold the door open for me??? :)

Next time, please say "hi"!!

i would of held the door for u, but a man in a black "suit" was doing a good job. i was on my way up a ramp to the promenade and was eating fries.

;)

[BMF]

[QUOTE=johnql;1475918]Mr. Met (look for the big head) gets mobbed during the 7th inning stretch near the Big Apple seats.
http://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu87/johnql/CF%20St%20John%203-29-09/IMG_5698.jpg

QUOTE]

wow im in that pic... lets play wheres WALDO:laugh:laugh:laugh:laugh

[metsforever7515]

Did you at least hold the door open for me??? :)

Next time, please say "hi"!!

I was looking for a woman in a wheelchair the whole game! Only saw you when you were taking the picture in front of the 42 though.

[ReyesOfHope]

PUDDLES. There were a TON of puddles and standing water throughout the park. I walked on that little ledge in front of the LF Restaurant and my feet got SOAKED...the ramps had a lot of puddles, some seats had some standing water under them, I don't get how that could happen in a project like this...

When it rains on concrete the water cannot be absorbed like it can on grass, or dirt. It has to evaporate.

[MetsFan24]

ughh this looks so nice....
http://lh6.ggpht.com/_1VFYPt4aL0I/Sc_66LDOYeI/AAAAAAAAAFU/n8RAkOOgEIA/s640/IMG_3498.JPG

wait, they're not using this patch on jerseys are they? just hats?

[mets16]

Link to all 295 pics here:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/jjway2006/sets/72157616096560160/

I found it funny how the LIRR is calling it "Mets-Willets Point formerly Shea Stadium". Everything is still "Shea Stadium".

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3567/3396039355_4b85a0f459_b.jpg

New avatar?? Get it? Mets16!
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3436/3396234205_46b351f5ce_b.jpg

Shake Shack
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3595/3397051262_0932e74a12_b.jpg

"Cow-Bellman"
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3473/3397053062_774539c5e5_b.jpg

[CFmets09]

photobucket and flickr>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>webshots......much easier to go through the pictures

[dla75]

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3588/3396218901_3e97a2b46d_b.jpg
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3430/3396218565_3ec33f2012_b.jpg
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3448/3397030822_ef1dc8eacf_b.jpg
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3631/3396223339_187442c7c8_b.jpg

My St Johns vs Georgetown Pics
http://www.flickr.com/photos/31660989@N05/sets/72157616099471264/

[metsforever7515]

wow im in that pic... lets play wheres WALDO:laugh:laugh:laugh:laugh

http://i254.photobucket.com/albums/hh82/fightinitalian21/wheresbigman.jpg

Am I right?

[kimthemetschick]

Still inside the Caesars Club
http://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu87/johnql/CF%20St%20John%203-29-09/IMG_5651.jpg

http://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu87/johnql/CF%20St%20John%203-29-09/IMG_5652.jpg

http://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu87/johnql/CF%20St%20John%203-29-09/IMG_5653.jpg

http://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu87/johnql/CF%20St%20John%203-29-09/IMG_5655.jpg

http://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu87/johnql/CF%20St%20John%203-29-09/IMG_5657.jpg

So that's where everyone was!! Judging by the actual seats, you'd never guess it was sold out!


Did anyone catch the 'condiment ladies'? Guarding the condiment bars. My assumption is that they were there so no one spit on the lettuce and tomatoes. My daughter is now calling them the 'sip ladies'. Hey, it's providing jobs for people!

[GordonGecko]

I went to the game as well. It's a great stadium. However, I just had this feeling of almost disbelief. I couldn't really believe that it was the Mets' stadium. I don't really know how to explain it; it just felt weird. I'm sure that will pass over time though.

The interior felt similar to the Nationals' stadium. The field looks great (though I'm not a big fan on the awkward RF); the CF camera view makes it look similar to Wrigley.
I know the feeling! It was kind of, what is this place, it doesn't look like Shea... It'll take time to recognize it as home.

I was at the Nationals home opener last year, and in no way whatsoever does Citi Field reminds me of NP, not even a little bit.

[metsforever7515]

I found this one shot I took pretty cool.

The Shea rubble from the Ceaser's Club:

http://i254.photobucket.com/albums/hh82/fightinitalian21/IMG_3665.jpg

[nymdan]

A few more thoughts:

-The porch is kind of a pain to get to from the rest of the stadium, the way you have to circle around the back of it.

-It felt like home when Lazy Mary was playing.

[Jim Vaz]

Couple questions I have for people there today.

1. How is the sound system? The PA system, music, etc? Was there organ played today?
(Does anyone know if the organ made it over to Citi?)

2. Are there parts that still look unfinished? If so what parts need to be completed?

Thanks!!

[Onemoredayatshea27]

What did people think of the park in terms of a Mets feeling. Could you easily identify it as the Mets ballpark and not some other teams. I understand that not all the banners, and signs are up, I'm just curious on what people have to say.

[metsforever7515]

A few more thoughts:

-The porch is kind of a pain to get to from the rest of the stadium, the way you have to circle around the back of it.

-It felt like home when Lazy Mary was playing.

Agreed and Agreed.

It took me a while to get to the LF excelsior level too.

[nymdan]

Couple questions I have for people there today.

1. How is the sound system? The PA system, music, etc? Was there organ played today?
(Does anyone know if the organ made it over to Citi?)

2. Are there parts that still look unfinished? If so what parts need to be completed?

Thanks!!
1. Good sound system. Loud. Almost too loud.

2. No, not really. They need to add a lot of the concession stand signs in the concourses... that's about it.

[CFmets09]

Man i'm trying to study for an exam but I keep looking at these pics. It's gonna be a late night haha

[metsforever7515]

Couple questions I have for people there today.

1. How is the sound system? The PA system, music, etc? Was there organ played today?
(Does anyone know if the organ made it over to Citi?)

2. Are there parts that still look unfinished? If so what parts need to be completed?

Thanks!!

SO LOUD, but good. At times I found myself yelling to someone next to me. It was fine though.

[nymdan]

Agreed and Agreed.

It took me a while to get to the LF excelsior level too.
Yep. Getting to the LF landing felt like Shea--down to the field level, then back up. There's no way around the Acela Club, as far as I could tell.

[Richard Vernon]

646_e4ee763e27_b.jpg
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3587/3397086878_38074ecc16_b.jpg
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3572/3397093634_959a8931d9_b.jpg
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3566/3397084494_264a6f95a6_b.jpg
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3473/3397085646_e4ee763e27_b.jpg

[Yankees12]

Yep. Getting to the LF landing felt like Shea--down to the field level, then back up. There's no way around the Acela Club, as far as I could tell.

I couldn't find a way around it. You'd think they could've punched a hole through near the LF ramps or something. Very poorly designed, and I'm sure it'll confuse a ton of people sitting there this season.

(BTW, for anyone sitting there, your best bet is to enter through the Bullpen Gate and head towards LF, and take an escalator or the stairs up once the main stands start. If you enter through the Rotunda, head down the 1B line towards RF, go past the bridge and CF plaza, and take an escalator up when the main stands start. From the 3B line, the only way I could see to enter was to either go up the the Promenade concourse or down to the Field level concourse, and then take the stairs to the Excelsior concourse on the other side of the Acela Club.)

[metsforever7515]

Yep. Getting to the LF landing felt like Shea--down to the field level, then back up. There's no way around the Acela Club, as far as I could tell.

I tried to go around it and just ran into a walll. So I went up to Prom and took the stairs down.

[kimthemetschick]

I know the feeling! It was kind of, what is this place, it doesn't look like Shea... It'll take time to recognize it as home.

I was at the Nationals home opener last year, and in no way whatsoever does Citi Field reminds me of NP, not even a little bit.

I agree, it's gonna take a bit getting used to. Of course, since the Mets weren't actually playing, that made it feel weird (thank God Mr Met was there :) ). To me, it felt like Philly. Maybe b/c when I went there, it was raining too.

[piazza3142]

Couple questions I have for people there today.

1. How is the sound system? The PA system, music, etc? Was there organ played today?
(Does anyone know if the organ made it over to Citi?)

2. Are there parts that still look unfinished? If so what parts need to be completed?

Thanks!!

I was sitting in the excelsior level and the speakers were too loud. They need to lower that, I couldn' even hear my Dad talking and he was sitting right next to me.

That is my only complaint. I honesty shed a couple tears, this place is unbelievable. I can' wait until next Saturday when I can actually sit down and watch baseball.

[metsforever7515]

I was sitting in the excelsior level and the speakers were too loud. They need to lower that, I couldn' even hear my Dad talking and he was sitting right next to me.

That is my only complaint. I honesty shed a couple tears, this place is unbelievable. I can' wait until next Saturday when I can actually sit down and watch baseball.

I leaked a few too. :D

[yankies4life]

So here is just a preview pic of my outting today. I took loads today so a lot should be up awfully soon. Stay tunned!

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v674/dadbuyaeboy/citi%20field/7c8ca4ba.jpg

[Dishy24]

Big Man & I were standing at the window in the Prom Club at the start of the game-- just looking out at the field-- just speechless-- we commented on how it "almost didn't feel real"... I was looking at what I had seen so many times in pictures, it's hard to describe-- it was both "new & familiar" to me at the same time...

I am so excited to see the Mets play there on Friday! Then I know I will be "home"!!

Thanks for a great afternoon, everyone!!! :nod:

[metsforever7515]

Big Man & I were standing at the window in the Prom Club at the start of the game-- just looking out at the field-- just speechless-- we commented on how it "almost didn't feel real"... I was looking at what I had seen so many times in pictures, it's hard to describe-- it was both "new & familiar" to me at the same time...

I am so excited to see the Mets play there on Friday! Then I know I will be "home"!!

Thanks for a great afternoon, everyone!!! :nod:

Speaking of Friday. Where and when are we gonna meet up?

[jpr281]

were all of the tv's showing SNY, or did any of them have on any other stations?

[CFmets09]

Speaking of Friday. Where and when are we gonna meet up?

lol metsforever i'm starting to think you're a stalker or something you really want to meet up with everybody:laugh......i'm just kidding man, it would be cool if I was able to meet up too but I don't think i've been around long enough to be relevant:cry:

[ubinfl]

Guess it's time for another meetup, maybe we should try before the game on Friday or opening night for those who are going.

Im post periodically but would love to meet some of the BBF folks. I'll be there opening night. look forward to being back home.

Bill
Stuart, Florida

[metsforever7515]

lol metsforever i'm starting to think you're a stalker or something you really want to meet up with everybody:laugh......i'm just kidding man, it would be cool if I was able to meet up too but I don't think i've been around long enough to be relevant:cry:

Hahaha. I've missed 2 of these meet-ups and I'm probably not going to the suite in June. And, I'm on this site and talk to all of you so much it would be nice to put a face to the names. :D

And you would be relevent.

[kimthemetschick]

Couple questions I have for people there today.

1. How is the sound system? The PA system, music, etc? Was there organ played today?
(Does anyone know if the organ made it over to Citi?)

2. Are there parts that still look unfinished? If so what parts need to be completed?

Thanks!!

At one point, I was talking to my bf, and some song came BLASTING on, I said "damn, this is loud' and suddnely the volume went down a bit. It was nice to hear the ol' familiars (sweet Caroline, etc). I could honestly do without "Everybody clap your hands" this year :ooo:

[metsforever7515]

At one point, I was talking to my bf, and some song came BLASTING on, I said "damn, this is loud' and suddnely the volume went down a bit. It was nice to hear the ol' familiars (sweet Caroline, etc). I could honestly do without "Everybody clap your hands" this year :ooo:

Sweet Caroline was GREAT, especially since they didn't do it at Shea last year.