Kauffman Stadium, home of the Kansas City Royals, is a truly beautiful ballpark. Many major league stadiums I have visited are nothing like that - just a stadium. In contrast, The K has a truly classic "natural home ballpark feel" to it. Maybe it is the fountains residing in the outfield. Maybe it is the new Outfield Experience, completed this year as part of renovations. Either way, it is top-notch.
The fountains, which stretch from left-centrefield to right-centrefield, give The K character that no other stadium can boast of: there are no other grounds with fountains inside the actual stadium. Between every half- inning, the fountains rise up to 20ft, providing all surrounding fans a refreshing mist during those hot summer games. The recent renovations make it one of the best looking stadiums in the league. The focal point was making the entire stadium accessible in a 360 degree fashion. Before the renovations, fans could not cross from side of the outfield to the other without walking all the way around the other end of the stadium. Now, not only can you travel as you please, but there are infinite entertainment options in the new Outfield Experience.
Equipped with an actual restaurant with bar in right field and another bar in left field, you can choose to quench any thirst at a variety of places. Also added were many activities and games for children visiting the stadium. The most memorable moment that I can recall at The K was in June 2004, when the Royals completed a three game sweep of the New York Yankees - all three of which games I attended. In my mind, there is no better way to spend a summer evening than cheering for the Royals out at The K.
Andrew also blogs at globalfutbol.com
