Royals - 7/13 - THE RETURN

Welcome to the new and (mostly) improved Kauffman Stadium

You must be aware by now that Kansas City was the site of the All-Star Game this year.  In preparation for the event the stadium has undergone some major renovation!  Although an attractive stadium before, it always had the feel of a minor league ballpark.  Not anymore!  This jewel is all grown up.  The entire area surrounding the fountain has been built up to incorporate restaurants, concessions, and activities.  Here is Kauffman before the renovation.

The new ballpark includes a number of new dining choices.

But we were lucky to be there on DOLLAR NIGHT!  Just look at what we took advantage of!

Unfortunately, GATES is no longer an option at Kauffman Stadium...

 

There is a new Royals Hall of Fame to rival any full-sized baseball museum we have attended.  We found photographs, demonstrations, memorabilia, and interactive exhibits.  We wish we had more time to fully explore!

The new kids' area is amazing!  And huge!  A family could completely miss the baseball game while taking advantage of mini field, batting cages, park, fountains, mini golf, and other pint-sized attractions.  Some have a small fee, but this is really an enhancement of the ballpark experience, rather than a way to gouge the fans for another few bucks.




Strange but true: Before then game, during the playing of the National Anthem, all movement in the corridors and concession areas came to a halt as all eyes turned toward the nearest monitor.

The game began with a visit from local Joplin, MO Royals Thunder -Amazing! (Click link to listen)

Entertainment included, of all things, the swearing-in ceremony of the newest group of army recruits from Fort Levenworth, KS.  And at the conclusion of the game we were treated to a firework show! (sorry, no photos available)

Between innings, hotdogs were thrown into the stands (here is Carter, enjoying the one he caught!)



Kauffman REALLY knows how to whip the crowd into a frenzy!
Texas has some serious rivals for the title of loudest fans!



The game was amazing, close, long, and tense! Refer to Robert's Sportcast for details.

Kansas City really knows how to put on a show for its fans.  And all of the new additions are really a plus!  Unfortunately, the experience at Fan Services was underwhelming.  And the in-between inning entertainment now consists mostly of every imaginable type of Fan-Cam. (We do have to say that Oblivious Cam and Limbo Cam were a lot of fun, though!)

After this trip, we may have to hand the mantle of "Best Fan Experience" to Minute Maid Park.

But don't worry, Kauffman...

We're still HUGE fans!

We found the new Kauffman experience to be totally delicious!