When I first visited Citi Field, home of the New York Mets, I was amazed by the sheer size and layout of the stadium. With so many gates and entrances, it can be a bit overwhelming for a first-timer. I’m here to share my experience and guide you through the essentials of Citi Field’s gates and entrances, making your visit a smooth and enjoyable one.
Located in Queens, Citi Field offers a fantastic atmosphere for baseball fans and visitors alike. But before diving into the fun, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with the different entrance gates and parking lots, ensuring you start your day on the right foot.
In the following paragraphs, I will provide you with the essential information about Citi Field, including the locations of the primary gates, accessibility entrances, and other useful tips to make your visit as pleasant as possible. Stick with me, and you’ll feel like a Citi Field pro in no time!
History of Citi Field
Citi Field is a baseball stadium located in Flushing Meadows-Corona Park, in the borough of Queens, New York City. It opened in 2009 and serves as the home ballpark for Major League Baseball’s New York Mets. Before Citi Field, the Mets played at the adjacent Shea Stadium, which opened in 1964 and was replaced by Citi Field due to its age and limited amenities.
The design for Citi Field was created by the company Populous, and its construction represents a new era of baseball stadiums in the United States. The stadium features a modern, fan-friendly design with wider concourses, more food options, and better sightlines than Shea Stadium. Some of the more notable aspects of Citi Field include the Jackie Robinson Rotunda—a tribute to the legendary Brooklyn Dodgers player—and the Mets Hall of Fame & Museum, both located within the stadium.
Over its relatively short history, Citi Field has hosted a range of events beyond baseball games. These events include concerts by popular artists like Paul McCartney and Beyoncé, as well as international soccer matches and NHL hockey games. Due to its versatility and modern amenities, Citi Field has quickly become one of the premier venues for sports and entertainment events in the New York City area.
The history of Citi Field continues to be written as the Mets and their fans create new memories every season. I’m grateful for the opportunity to have experienced a game at this incredible stadium and look forward to attending many more events there in the future.
Guide to Gate Locations
Gate 1
When I arrived at Citi Field for my first New York Mets game, I found that Gate 1 is a great option for my entrance. Located on the 126th Street side of the stadium, this gate provides access to the Field Level and Excelsior Level seating areas. It is also conveniently close to Parking Lot A, making it an ideal choice for those who drive to the game.
Gate 2
I’ve also used Gate 2, which is situated at the corner of 126th Street and 37th Avenue. This entrance gives access to the Field Level, Excelsior Level, and Promenade Level seating. It’s near Parking Lot B and the 7 train station, offering a convenient option for fans arriving by car or public transportation.
Gate 3
If you’re looking for the most centrally located entrance, Gate 3 is my recommendation. Found on 37th Avenue, it provides access to all seating levels, including the Field Level, Excelsior Level, Promenade Level, and Suites. This gate is close to the Jackie Robinson Rotunda and serves as a hub for fans entering Citi Field.
VIP Entrance
Lastly, for guests looking for a more exclusive experience, the VIP Entrance is the way to go. Located on Seaver Way, this entrance offers access to the field-level Delta Sky360 Club and the premium suite levels. The VIP Entrance also provides a dedicated will-call window for those picking up their tickets at the stadium. Keep in mind that this entrance is only available to VIP ticket holders and guests with appropriate credentials.
Entrance Protocol
Security Measures
As a fan visiting Citi Field, I find that security is an essential aspect to ensure everyone’s safety. So, when entering the stadium, be prepared to undergo a quick security screening process. This typically includes a bag check where bags larger than 16″x16″x8″ are not permitted. It’s crucial to familiarize yourself with the prohibited items list, which includes fireworks, weapons, drones, and outside food and beverages. By understanding these rules, I always find my entry process much smoother.
Ticket Verification
When it comes to ticket verification, Citi Field has made it quite easy for fans like me. Upon arriving at the gate, all I need to do is present my valid ticket or a digital ticket on my mobile device. Then, the staff at the entrance scans the tickets, and as long as my ticket is valid, I’m good to go. It’s essential to double-check your ticket’s date and seat number to avoid any confusion. With this straightforward process, I can enjoy my time at Citi Field with minimal hassle.
Accessibility Features
Disabled Access
At Citi Field, I found that they prioritize accessibility for guests with disabilities. There are several accommodations available, such as designated accessible entry points, wheelchair entry, seating, and ramps. I noticed that all entry points at Citi Field are ADA accessible, but fans with accessibility needs may also enter through the Hodges, Seaver, or Stengel VIP entrances for added convenience.
Getting around the stadium is made easier with the availability of elevators and ramps. Additionally, drop-off and pick-up locations are clearly marked for guests’ convenience, ensuring a smooth arrival and departure experience at Citi Field.
Facilities for Visually and Hearing Impaired
Citi Field goes above and beyond for guests with visual and hearing impairments. Assistive listening devices and various transmitting and noise-canceling devices can be found throughout the stadium to ensure everyone can fully enjoy the game.
Also, incorporation of closed captioning for key announcements allows people with hearing impairments to stay informed throughout the game. Accessible seating and restrooms are also available for guests with visual and hearing impairments.
Furthermore, Citi Field provides information and policies on allergy limitations and dietary restrictions for food and beverage services to accommodate specific needs. The staff and facilities at Citi Field aim to create an inclusive experience for all fans.
In-Park Services
Food and Beverage
At Citi Field, I was delighted to find a variety of food and beverage options. There are choices to satisfy every taste bud, from classic stadium fare like hot dogs and pretzels, to specialty offerings such as gourmet burgers and a diverse range of beers. The food stands and concessions are conveniently located throughout the ballpark, so I never felt the need to venture too far from my seat. I also appreciated the availability of vegetarian and gluten-free options, which made it easy for everyone to find something they could enjoy.
Merchandise Shops
As a fan, I loved browsing through the different merchandise shops found inside Citi Field. Whether I was looking for a Mets jersey to show my team pride, or just needed a baseball cap to keep the sun out of my eyes, I could find everything I needed at one of the several stores within the stadium. They even had a selection of team memorabilia and souvenirs for those who wanted to take a piece of the game back home with them. If I needed assistance, the friendly staff members were always more than happy to help me locate what I was looking for.
Restrooms
Finally, I’d like to mention the restrooms at Citi Field. I found them to be clean and well-maintained, with plenty of facilities to accommodate the large crowds that attend games. I never had to wait too long in line to access a restroom, which allowed me to quickly return to my seat and continue enjoying the game. Additionally, I noticed the restrooms were equipped with changing stations for parents with young children, helping to make Citi Field a family-friendly venue.
Tips for a Smooth Experience
As a frequent visitor to Citi Field, I’ve picked up a few tips that I’d like to share with you to ensure you have a great time at the stadium. By following these suggestions, you can avoid common issues and enhance your overall experience when attending a game.
Best Times to Arrive
In my experience, the ideal time to arrive at Citi Field is about 2 hours before the scheduled game time. This allows you to comfortably find parking, navigate the gates, and grab some snacks or souvenirs before settling into your seats. Additionally, gates usually open 2 hours prior to regularly scheduled home games. Just keep in mind, opening times may vary for doubleheaders, so plan accordingly.
Prohibited Items
To avoid any delays or complications at the entrance gates, it’s important to be aware of the items that are not allowed inside Citi Field. Some common prohibited items include:
- Outside food and beverages, except for a sealed plastic water bottle (1 per person) or a single empty reusable plastic water bottle
- Backpacks or any bags larger than 16″ x 16″ x 8″
- Alcohol, glass bottles, or cans
- Umbrellas, folding chairs, or stools
- Noisemaking devices such as air horns or whistles
- Any weapons or items that may be considered dangerous
Remember to adhere to these guidelines, and you’ll have a smooth and hassle-free entrance, ensuring an enjoyable experience at Citi Field.
Conclusion
I hope this gate and entrance guide has given you all the information you need to navigate Citi Field with ease and enjoy your time at the ballpark. It’s always great to attend a New York Mets game or any other event hosted at this iconic venue, and knowing your way around the stadium will surely enhance the experience.
As a friendly reminder, make sure to double-check the specific gate and entrance details based on your tickets and parking preferences. It’s important to arrive early and familiarize yourself with the various sections and amenities Citi Field has to offer. Remember that there are numerous parking lots located around the stadium, so choose the most convenient option for your needs.
I believe that with this guide and a bit of preparation, you’ll be all set for a fantastic day at Citi Field. Enjoy the game or event, and don’t forget to take in the spectacular sights and sounds of this wonderful venue!
