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A Day Out at the New Britain Rock Cats Baseball Game in Hartford County
Nothing says summer in America quite like sharing a baseball game with your child. However the thought of taking little ones to Fenway Park or Yankee Stadium is a little daunting for your patience and your wallet. According to a Team Marketing Report survey, the cost for a family of four to attend a Red Sox game including parking, food, drink, and souvenirs is just under $340. That is a chunk of change not many families can afford for one night of entertainment. Luckily here in CT, you can get a taste of the big leagues for much less without sitting in Boston traffic! The New Britain Rock Cats are the Minnesota Twins' Double-A affiliate. For more minor league baseball fun check out this post.
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Every Major League Baseball team has a farm system that grooms and develops talent who hope to reach the major league level. Ticket start at $6 for general admission and max out at $20 for the best reserved seats. Ages four and under are free. One special promotion is a "Family 4 Pack" - Four reserved seats, hot dogs, popcorns and waters for $40.
Other events include post-game fireworks, kids eat free, run the bases after the game, pre-game block parties, and more. Check the team website for specific dates. There are home games through September 2. The Rock Cats also welcome group outings of 25 or more at reduced rates. You are introduced on the video board and PA system, and your school, company, scout group, religious organization, etc., sits together. They can also cater a full picnic in one of the patio areas.
We attended the game as part of my son's school, and it was a fun way to meet and mingle with new families. Parking is $5 but we opted for the Premium Parking for $7 and boy, was it worth it. Our car was right next to the stadium, and this made for a quick getaway when our son was exhausted after an awesome night. If you have strollers or kids who can't walk too far, I highly recommend it. They also allow re-entry, so if you need to run to the car for a change of clothes or diapers, you can't beat the convenience.
Concessions cost more than I expected, and we blew through cash pretty quickly. Dinner for three was $25. Beers - $6.50, cotton candy - $4.50. But I was pleasantly surprised at the variety; it was more than just hot dogs and popcorn. They carried salads, wraps, bbq sandwiches and pizza, gluten-free beer and wine. They do not allow outside food to be brought in.
The main draw of the game for kids will likely be the Fun Zone near left field. For $5 per child (12 and under) , they get unlimited play in the bounce house and slide, playscape, speed pitch and home run derby. It opens an hour and a half before game time and to maximize your time there, arrive early. I noticed that it was quite busy during the game with kids who get antsy in their seats.
New Britain Rock Cats 230 John Karbonic Way, New Britain, CT 06051 (860) 224-8383
