If you live in or near Minnesota, you’re sure to have heard that the Minnesota Twins will soon have a new home, Target Field in downtown Minneapolis, just a block from the Timberwolves’ Target Center.

Today was the grand opening and dedication of Target Plaza, the outdoor gathering space that brings the ticket office, gift shop, and gates 34 and 29 together.  It is meant to be a community space both for Twins games and on non-game days.

In addition to the brief dedication ceremony, which featured Kent Hrbek dropping the ball into the golden glove, the Twins and Target had some great family activities on deck for the day.  The kids could hit a ball (and get a free Target Plaza hat), throw a baseball (and get to keep it),  get tattooed, and make a Twins pennant.  Wally the Beerman was even on hand giving out free hot chocolate.  My son got his picture taken with T.C., the Twins mascot, and my husband was disappointed that he just missed a chance to get Kent Hrbek’s autograph.  Staff on hand were friendly and happy despite the cool and dreary day.

Target Plaza is a comfortable space where it’s easy to find the ticket counter and other essentials.  We parked in Garage A and it was just across the street, and access to 394 afterward is a breeze.  Although I’d known the new ballfield was close to Target Center, I hadn’t realized just how close it was.  When we were looking for a restaurant, Target Center’s NBA City was the closest one we found, just a block from Target Field.

Art and history are evident at the plaza, from the kinetic sculpture that disguises a parking ramp to the pictures of former Twins homes to pennants for each year’s teams.  The gates to Target Field from Target Plaza are Gate 34 (Kirby Puckett’s number) and Gate 29 (for Rod Carew).

After visiting Target Plaza today and peeking in on the field, we’re excited to get tickets and cheer on the Twins in their new home.  How about you?

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