We’ve reported on many of these changes already, but today the Cincinnati Reds formally announced this year’s upgrades to Great American Ball Park, as the team prepares to host the 2015 MLB All-Star Game.
The changes tie into Cincinnati’s baseball heritage, as well as the city’s general history.
“Many of the new ballpark features include historic elements and streetscape façades that pay homage to the Queen City’s cultural heritage,” said Phil Castellini, Reds Chief Operating Officer. “Reds baseball is an intrinsic part of our past, and we are excited to have the ballpark reflect the vibrancy happening throughout our downtown. These ballpark features are a great opportunity to showcase Cincinnati’s history to the thousands of guests visiting the region during All-Star Summer.”
Prominent in the upgrades: The Handlebar (shown above), where fans have access to an an all-inclusive upscale buffet and open bar. Located on the Club Level overlooking right field, the Handlebar at the newly renovated Riverfront Club offers upscale contemporary furnishings while featuring a 26-foot video wall, high-definition video columns and both indoor and outdoor seating. Fans can purchase standing room only tickets, outdoor rail seats or luxury boxes that seat groups of 12-14 guests.
Other changes include:
Bootleggers Bar
Located along the first-base concourse on the Terrace Level, Bootleggers Bar (shown above) is a new walk-in area serving beer and liquor that features a historical design reminiscent of a Cincinnati speakeasy from the early 1900s.
Retail Row
A new streetscape just inside the main gates featuring retail locations for the Majestic Home Plate Shop, Split the Pot Booth, Season Ticket Holder Central, Game-Used Authentics and Fan Club Corner.
Concessions Streetscape Theme
• The Frisch’s, LaRosa’s, UDF Ice Cream, Penn Station, Skyline Chili, Moerlein Lager House and Taste of Belgium concessions on the Terrace Level concourse received new streetscape façades.
• Several concession stands serving hot dogs, brats, metts and other ballpark fare have been re-branded Porkopolis to pay tribute to the city’s heritage.
• The new food options at the Fry Box will feature fresh cut fries with a variety of hearty toppings and flavors. The façade is uniquely constructed from a shipping container.
Additional Fan Experience Upgrades
Pampers Nursing Suite built by Fischer Homes
The Pampers Nursing Suite built by Fischer Homes is a private area open to all moms for breast feeding, bottle feeding and other child care needs. The space features five comfortable gliders, changing stations, private restroom, kitchenette with a sink, ice and refrigeration, lockers for storing items and flat screen TVs so mom doesn’t miss any of the game. Located on the Suite Level near the Champions Club elevators.
DraftServ Beer Stations
Twenty DraftServ self-serve beer stations will be installed around the ballpark featuring Budweiser, Bud Light and Goose Island. Fans can purchase a “beer card” at retail team shops and pay for the beer by the ounce.
Food Ordering Kiosks
Four touch-screen kiosks have been added on the Terrace Level down the third-base concourse that will allow fans to place food orders and then pick them up at designated concession stands.