Citizens Bank Park

Ticket to Citizens Bank Park in front of entrance.

Philadelphia Skyline from Citizens Bank Park's parking lot.

Citizens Bank Park, In Philadelphia, PA opened in 2004 to replace the dated, multi-purpose Veterans Stadium, shared with the Philadelphia Eagles. The Phillies wanted an all-baseball stadium, and they definitely did not fall short of it. It was built on the South Philadelphia Sports Complex, along with Lincoln Financial Field, Wells Fargo Center, and Xfinity Live! When the Phillies, Eagles, 76ers or Flyers play a game at the same time, the already packed parking lot becomes a trip in itself to get out of. But the crowded parking lots are a testament to how many loyal Phillies fans flock to games, as they have sold out every game since July 7, 2009.

As you enter the stadium you are greeted by the amazing Philadelphia Skyline, along with beautiful sculptures of athletes by native Joe Brown. Though the entrance of the stadium is very forgettable, unlike the arches at Citi Field or PNC Park , it is easily made up for by the Inside of the Stadium. There is not one bad seat in the house, and every seat is close to the field. Even the seats in Ashburn Alley (bleacher section in Center Field) are great. They separate the upper decks, so there are no obstructed

The famous "stacked-bullpen" in right-center field.

views from the corners.

Don't make the mistake of showing up decked out in Mets gear. I learned the hard way. And so have away teams bullpens since  2004. The bullpens are stacked atop eachother, so the away teams bullpen is below the concourse, and the home teams is a step away from the field. Away teams have been heckled, taunted, and had food thrown at them by the Phillies fans that are well-known for their class, or lack thereof. 


If you get hungry during the games, you won't have to travel far, as there are great concession stands all around the stadium. These include Hoagies, Philly Cheesesteaks, Pretzels, Burgers, Pulled-Pork Sandwiches, Hot Dogs, Fries, and more!

Citizens Bank Park at dusk from upper deck. 

"Full Swing," and "The Punter" by

Joe Brown greet fans in the parking

lots of Citizens Bank Park as well as

Lincoln Financial Field, home of

the Philadelphia Eagles.

Other great aspects of Citizens Bank Park, are that they have a $10 Million Dollar HD Scoreboard in Left Field. In right-center, after every homerun a 52-foot-tall by 35-foot-wide mechanical, lighted replica of the Liberty Bell rings and lights up after every Phillies home run and victory. Not to Mention the furry, green, fat, and funny Philly Phanatic. It is known for shooting hot dogs into the stands, getting on the visitors dugout to rally fans, and taunting opposing players, the last of which may be copied off Phillies fans themselves.

Although the focus is mainly on baseball, there is a play ground for unentertained children to climb, play, and have fun. Along with great food, great amenities, and "entertaining" fans, Citizens Bank Park is truly a great all-around experience for all ages, but one that is definitely centered around the great game of baseball.

Panoramic view of Citizens Bank Park

Next Weeks Edition of Ballpark Guide: Great American Ballpark in Cincinnati, OH