Get to know your transportation options as the new Twins season starts
The Minnesota Twins are ready to start their second season at Target Field in downtown Minneapolis, and before the first pitch, fans should take the opportunity to refresh their memories on all the transportation options available for getting to the game.
The Twins home opener is Friday, April 8 at 3:10 p.m. against the Oakland A’s, and there are a few things fans should keep in mind for the new season:
- Northstar rail serves every game - This year, taking Metro Transit’s Northstar commuter rail line to the game will be even more convenient, with train service to all Twins games in 2011. Hiawatha Light Rail and regular bus service are also expected to remain popular options.
- Parking near the ballpark is easy - If you’re looking for a place to park your car, the ABC and Hawthorne Ramps adjacent to Target Field emptied very smoothly after games last year, making them a great option to park near the ballpark and explore the neighborhood.
- Watch the electronic message signs to get around – There are now more than 70 dynamic messaging signs at intersections around Downtown. Not sure where to park? Just follow the signs, which are updated with real-time information on event parking, including information on when ramps fill and where to find alternate parking.
- Learn about all the excitement Downtown – The Minneapolis Downtown Improvement District has a new, user-friendly events calendar that lists many of the larger events Downtown, so you can plan ahead for your visit. If you’re going to a Twins game, check out other events you might want to attend, and knowing what else is happening Downtown will help you plan ahead to minimize transportation delays. Just visit www.MinneapolisDID.com to see the calendar.
- Let the DID Ambassadors help! – The Downtown Improvement District Ambassadors are the friendly faces of Downtown: people who are approachable and welcoming. They can offer suggestions on things to do, help with directions, and are there to lend a helping hand if you need it. You can also call with questions at (612) 332-1111.
Getting where you’re going
Downtown is an urban setting that provides transportation opportunities to meet everyone’s desired experience, whether you want to drive, ride a bus, take a train, or bike or walk.
When visiting Downtown, there are four tips people should remember to minimize delays and maximize their enjoyment of all the activities going on.
- Plan ahead – Visit DestinationTargetField.com to learn more about all your transportation choices.
- Know your parking options – There is parking availability throughout Downtown. If you prefer convenient access to Target Field, the adjacent A,B,C, and Hawthorne ramps have plenty of capacity, and the ramps empty smoothly after games, without long waits.
- Consider transit – Target Field is an extremely transit -friendly facility, located at the junction of Northstar commuter rail, the Hiawatha light rail, and many bus lines.
- Bicycles are another great way to the games – Bicyclists are reminded to use headlights and taillights after dark and, if possible, to wear light or reflective clothing.
- Come early/Stay late – The Warehouse District is ready to welcome fans for another summer of baseball. Take part in activities, shopping, dining, and other entertainment before and after games and concerts. Enjoy the extra time to experience all Downtown has to offer, and beat the traffic.
Making event days a great experience
Many City departments, the Minnesota Twins, Minnesota Ballpark Authority, Target Center, the Minnesota Vikings, the Hubert H. Humphrey Metrodome, the Minnesota Department of Transportation, Hennepin County, Metro Transit, ABC Ramps, the Warehouse District Business Association, the Downtown Improvement District, the Hennepin Theatre District, the Minneapolis Convention Center, the Guthrie Theater, and others are all taking steps to make event days in Downtown success. To help fans plan ahead and make the most of their experience Downtown, these partners have collaborated to create DestinationTargetField.com on the Minnesota Twins website. The site helps folks explore all their options for getting to Downtown events, whether it’s by car, on a bus or train, or by biking or walking.
Published Apr. 5, 2011