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HISTORY:

Improved amenities and comfort for fans were obvious keys to the design of Citi Field; to create extra leg room and aisle space the ballpark actually holds some 15,000 fewer fans than did its predecessor, Shea Stadium. In November 2006 the Mets and financial services company Citigroup partnered in the marketing and business venture that is Citi Field. Part of the cost of building the stadium came from taxpayer funds, and according to information provided by StubHub! and the Mets' Web site, the facility was designed as a pitcher's park with a huge outfield and its brick exterior is reminiscent of Ebbets Field. And never far from the hearts of many Mets fans will be Shea Stadium, which opened in 1964, was named after attorney William Shea, who helped bring the Mets franchise to New York in 1962, and was situated just an 8-2 throw away from Citi Field.

Soak up the scene:

Citi Field is New York's "other" new ballpark, built just beyond the outfield fence of old Shea Stadium. Designers incorporated features from long-gone parks like Ebbets Field, and the atmosphere is more intimate than at Shea. In fact, the move means about 15,000 fewer seats, so the ticket supply will be tighter. But the park ensures the Mets will remain in Queens for decades to come. For more on the Citi Field experience, including a game-day itinerary, visit Wise Guides.

SEATING NOTES:

• StubHub! will be updating its seating information for the new stadium in the near future.

Kids:

All persons entering the ballpark who are 32 inches or taller require a ticket. Children shorter than 32 inches tall do not require a ticket but must sit on a parent's lap during the game without obstructing the view of other fans. There will not be a seat provided without a ticket. The 2KSports FanFest is a great attraction for kids of all ages and is located on the Field Level in center field, and is fun for the whole family. Centered on Mr. Met's Kiddie Field, a scale version of Citi Field, the 2KSports FanFest features a batting cage, baserunning challenge, dunk tank, video game kiosks and a live DJ. Mr. Met has also been known to make appearances there. Weather permitting, the 2KSports FanFest will be open 2½ hours prior to every Mets home game, and will remain open until the 7th inning.

Alcohol policies:

It is the policy of both the New York Mets and Aramark to conduct its operation in compliance with all applicable laws regarding the sale and service of alcoholic beverages and in a manner intended to promote responsible consumption. The sale and service of alcoholic beverages to anyone under the age of 21 or any visibly intoxicated person is prohibited. A maximum of two drinks may be sold to a customer per transaction; this limit may be modified to less than the specified number at the discretion of Aramark management for special events or special circumstances. No vending of alcohol after the 7th inning, or earlier at Aramark management discretion. No alcohol sales at concession stands or suites after 7th inning, or earlier at Aramark management discretion. Alcohol cutoff in all Citi Field restaurants and clubs is 45 minutes after the conclusion of game, or earlier at Aramark management discretion or at the request of New York Mets management. The legal drinking age in New York is 21. To ensure that minors are not served, Aramark will require valid identification and proof of age from every customer. Required proof is driver's license with picture, military ID with picture or passport with picture. Designated Aramark supervisors and managers will monitor alcohol sales at each event to enforce compliance with these policies. Appropriate signage will be displayed at each alcohol sales location to advise customers of the guidelines and rules.

Address:

Citi Field
126th Street and Roosevelt Avenue
Flushing, NY 11368

Will Call:

Tickets purchased through StubHub! and designated for "Stadium Pickup" can be picked up at any open Citi Field ticket window with signage indicating that the window is available for StubHub! ticket pickups. Tickets can be picked up in advance of the game date or on game day up until the middle of the fifth inning.

Directions:

There are many and varied options for driving to Citi Field; complicating matters is congestion as game time approaches. The Mets have it all broken down for drivers (for early arrivers and latecomers) with directions on the team Web site.

Parking:

Likewise, the Mets' Web site also may be your best bet for locating parking opportunities.

Transportation:

To get to Citi Field from Penn Station or Woodside, use the Long Island Rail Road. The No. 7 subway serves baseball fans via Grand Central's Metro North Trains from Westchester and Connecticut. For additional mass-transit information, consult the Mets' Web site.