NEW BRITAIN STADIUM

New Britain Stadium was built in 1996 as part of the New Britain stadiums complex, located on South Main Street. This is one of the better parks we have seen; it is simple in its layout but offers the fan everything they should need.

Turning in off South Main, the stadium is away from the street - you need to drive in a bit to get to the parking lot, which costs $2. The stadium consists mainly of red brick, with green roofing. There are also windows on both levels of the stadium. Along the east side of the park are small decals representing each team in the Eastern League as well as the major league club. 

Outside

There are a lot of ticket options here: the club seats are $10 although it was not clear what advantage they had over the $8 box seats; reserved seats are behind the plate above the walkway and are the non-folding variety, but for $6 are the best bet; and while General Admission seats are only $5, they are just benches down the lines and they looked uncomfortable.  If it is a sunny day, the Reserved seats are the best as they are generally shaded by the small roof.

As you enter via the main gate, you will notice the lineups and EL standings posted. As well, look above you to see the EL pennants on display. Along each concourse are the major league pennants, although a few NL pennants seemed to be missing.

This park has a lot of good things going for it. For example, the concourse beneath the seating area is very wide, which allows for easy passage to the concessions or Third Base souvenir shop. As well, the walkway between the seating levels is wide as well, so you don't have to worry about dropping your drink as you make your way back to your seat. 

The food here is OK, but if you want something more than the hot dog, head up the stairs behind third base and grab a steak burger at the Sam Adams Rooftop Grill. You can sit at a picnic table and enjoy the game while chowing down. If you are going to the regular concessions, you will be surprised to see TVs showing the game - a rarity in the minors. 

Scoreboard

Other features include a few luxury suites just underneath the roof, a picnic patio down the right field line, and one retired number, that of Tony Oliva. 

Overall, New Britain Stadium is a good AA park. The seats are good from anywhere and there are no unnecessary distractions. The promotions were interesting and the crowd was very energetic as well. We recommend taking in a game here if you have a chance, it fits in well between NY and Boston for any east coast road tripper.