8 cool things you never knew about Safeco Field

The Mariners are important, of course, but a big part of the fan experience is a fun day at the ballpark.

And that’s why Seattle’s Safeco Field is a perfect place to take in a game or two – or even an occasional concert. The modern stadium was the retractable roof was designed with access and crowd flow in mind – there are plenty of spaces to accommodate thousands of people coming in and out without feeling like salmon pushing upstream. Plenty of vantages make it easy to walk around during a game without missing much.

It’s also designed to offer great views of the proceedings, whether you have prime box seats or decent seats at higher levels.

Enjoy these tidbits about this special venue.

1. It officially opened July 15, 1999 after more than five years of planning, a failed county election for financing.

2. Its official capacity is 47,943 seats, with 3,700 bleacher seats, 21,000 main level seats and premium seats at the club, suite and main levels.

3. Its predecessor, The Kingdome, actually had more seats, around 59,000.

4. The roof isn’t technically a roof – it’s considered more of a retractable umbrella where the sides are still open so games can proceed in the rain. It takes about 15 minutes to fully retract on nicer days.

5. The Kings Court, in Section 150, was created by fans for fans… of ‘King’ Felix Hernandez. People who are part of this cheering section get yellow T-shirts and special K-cards.

6. Safeco Field boasts the largest video screen in Major League Baseball, positioned right above the center field bleachers. It measures 11,425 square feet – the next largest is the 8,820 square foot board at Kauffman Stadium in Kansas City.

7. A game ticket also includes access to the museum area which includes the Mariners Hall of Fame.

8. Besides baseball, the stadium has hosted A-list entertainers such as Paul McCartney and Billy Joel; a Microsoft company meeting; a Bernie Sanders rally; and Wrestlemania.