For $15 each, we expected a simple night at the ballpark. Instead, we walked into Dollar Dog Night, Bark at the Park and one of the most entertaining baseball games we could have chosen.
The game stayed tied for a while, then Minnesota broke it open. The Twins scored 10 runs in the sixth inning and finished with a 15 to 2 win over Detroit. Balls were flying into the stands throughout the game, so as sections started clearing out, we kept moving around the stadium hoping one would come our way.
The game gave us everything the food did not.
The hospitality, music, downtown skyline and illuminated Minnie and Paul sign made Target Field feel special. Seeing dogs around the stadium and the wiener dogs racing on the field made the promotion even better.
The concessions were the weak point. The dollar dogs were fine for the deal, the cheese curds were just okay and the viral fish shaped dessert was the biggest miss. Petco Park has spoiled us when it comes to ballpark food.
Downtown baseball since 2010
Target Field opened in 2010 in Minneapolis’ historic warehouse district. The open-air ballpark connects directly to Target Field Station and frames the city skyline, while the glowing Minnie and Paul sign has become its signature.
The value won. The food did not.
$15 Tickets
The best value of the night and an easy reason to choose the game over another downtown plan.
$1 Hot Dogs
Fine for the promotion, but not something we would make a special stadium trip to eat.
Cheese Curds
Perfectly okay, but not memorable enough to compete with our favorite ballpark food.
Chocolate Fish on a Stick
The viral fish shaped dessert looked more exciting than it tasted and was the biggest miss of the night.
Go for the game, not the viral food
Bark at the Park, the downtown atmosphere, the music and a huge Twins win made the night. We would absolutely return for another game, but we would spend less time chasing concession recommendations.
What we would do again: Grab the affordable seats, walk from downtown, enjoy the promotions and let the game be the experience.
The details worth knowing
Skip parking if you are downtown
We walked about 10 minutes from the Royal Sonesta. Target Field Station also connects to the Metro Blue and Green lines.
Bring the right bag
Target Field allows single-compartment bags up to 16 × 16 × 8 inches. Backpacks and other multi-compartment bags are prohibited.
Expect digital and cashless
Tickets are mobile, screenshots are not accepted and the ballpark operates cashlessly.
Planning note: Promotions change by game, so check the Twins schedule before buying. Outside food and sealed water bottles up to 32 ounces are permitted under the current ballpark guide.
