| The "new" Metro Bank Park (now known as FNB Field) opened in 2010 - it replaces what was originally know as Riverside Stadium (and in later years Commerce Bank Park/Metro Bank Park). While some may not consider this a different park, I am since the grandstand was completely torn down and rebuilt. The new park was actually built in two phases. Before the 2009 season, a new outfield concourse was added along with a high-def scoreboard. The second phase consisted of the new grandstand as well as a new building to house the ticket offices and team store. In total, the cost of this renovation was $42 million. A lot of money for sure, but Harrisburg now has a ballpark that is worthy of being called a AA park. Clearly the old park was one of the worst in the league. Metro Bank Park is probably near the top now. Its location on City Island makes for a very neat setting. While the old ballpark was never able to take advantage of this, the new ballpark does provide views of the Susquehanna River from the upper concourse as well the the back of the luxury suites. The rebuilt grandstand is a huge improvement over the old one. While still made of metal (I would prefer concrete), it features all fold down chairs and a roof that covers about half the seating. Also, they replicated the steep pitch of the old one, meaning that sightlines are excellent here. It puzzles me whenever people think that a steep seating bowl is a bad thing - the steeper the seats, the less obstructions there will be. In addition to the new grandstand, new box seats were put in down each line. The outfield concourse, which has a boardwalk feel, is the key feature that really separates this place from other parks. It includes several picnic areas, a row of bar stools in both left field and right field, as well as a couple sections of fold down seats. The lack of a grassy berm is actually a refreshing change. The only complaint I have with the seating is that they kept a single bleacher section on the first base side. While it does offer a cheaper seating option, it just seems a bit out of place in a new park. The concourse areas are also greatly improved now. The main grandstand features two concourses - one at ground level and one elevated. They both feature tons of concessions stands as well as places to sit amd enjoy your food. While neither are in view of the field, this doesn't matter to someone like me who rarely wanders the concourses while the game is being played. Concessions at Metro Bank Park are top notch. Not only are there numerous concessions stands, the variety of options is great and the quality outstanding. My favorite stand is "The Spot" (named after a now defunct Harrisburg restaurant), which features several specialty hot dogs as well as the "Rendell" Burger - probably the best burger I've ever had at a game. Other unique food choices include Philly cheesesteaks, BBQ (at MoMo's stand), and several types of sausages. Prices are quite reasonable for a AA ballpark. Because Harrisburg has had baseball since 1987, the atmosphere is pretty laid back here. Most fans seem to be into the game and the team doesn't try to distract the fans too much. There is an on-field DJ and the team does do a few between inning games, but there is nothing which interferes with the game itself. As part of the renovations, the team added a large play area (with several inflatables) for kids on the first base side. Fortunately it is out of view of the field, which is where these play areas always should be. Parking is available for $3 on the island, but is somewhat limited. So some fans park in the downtown and walk over the pedestrian bridge to get to the game. Overall, Metro Bank Park is just a huge improvement over what was here before. Harrisburg can finally be proud of the ballpark the Senators play in.
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