Safeco Field - Home of the Seattle Mariners

You can't miss seeing Safeco Field as you drive on Interstate 5 through the heart of Seattle, with it's hulking retractable roof.

As you arrive at the ballpark which is sometimes called "The Safe", you'll first notice the traditional red brick facade of the exterior.

After you walk through the turnstile and up the stairs you'll notice how the designers did a fabulous job of keeping your view of the field unobstructed. In fact you can walk completely around the stadium on the concourse and keep the field in view at all times!

Location

The ballpark is located near the waterfront and just south of downtown and magnificent Qwest Field, home of the Seattle Seahawks. It's also a good location to get a great view of downtown.

Sometime during a game be sure and take a break by heading up to the top level. There while you're sampling some of the wide food choices you can enjoy the open-air picnic area; it has a sweeping spectacular view of Elliot Bay and downtown Seattle. On clear days look west for a view of the magnificent snow-capped Olympic Mountains.

Click for map and driving directions.

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A Short History of Safeco Field

Prior to Safeco Field, the home of both the Mariners and the Seahawks was the multipurpose Kingdome. While the Kingdome was okay for football, the fans didn't think the Kingdome was intimate enough for baseball. There also weren't enough luxury suites, and the roof leaked. Then, in 1994, four 15-pound ceiling tiles crashed into the stands just hours before a Mariners' game.

In 1995, a task force recommended the public be involved in financing a new stadium, and on October 14th a new revenue package was authorized. On March 8, 1997 construction of Safeco Field began with a groundbreaking ceremony featuring Mariners star Ken Griffey, Jr.

The new Seattle Mariners stadium opened for play on July 15, 1999 with a game against the San Diego Padres, which the Mariners lost 3 to 2. On March 6, 2000, the Kingdome, which went from engineering wonder to outmoded eyesore in just 24 years, was demolished in a controlled implosion.

Food at Safeco Field

If you're expecting the traditional baseball fare of hotdogs, sodas, and beer, you won't be disappointed. But you'll discover that Safeco also serves up some unexpected food specialties.

Start with the Ichiroll, a Japanese sushi roll named after the Mariner's All-Star right fielder Ichiro Suzuki. You'll also find tacos, nachos, pizza, barbeque, healthy alternatives, and plenty of espresso stands (this is Seattle, after all).

In fact, there are a total of 62 food stands, 25 food kiosks, one restaurant, and even a pub.

Safeco's Retractable Roof

One of the most unique features of Safeco Field is its retractable roof. What is unique about it is that it's the only retractable roof that serves only as an "umbrella", rather than closing off the stadium to form a fully climate-controlled environment. This is possible due to Seattle's mild climate--it doesn't get too cold--or too hot.

Tip: it's always wise to bring a jacket to Safeco even in the middle of the summer. The evenings can be very cool as the breeze arrives from across the waters of the Puget Sound. And if your seats are on the first base line, you'll be in the shade for the entire game.

Some interesting facts about the retractable roof:

• It is made of rubberized sheet metal
• It is constructed of three independent panels that slide together like a telescope
• When closed the roof covers an area of 8.9 acres
• Each section rests on parallel railroad tracks
• Each section is powered by independent electric motors that operate by computer all at the same time. 
• The closing of the roof is inaudible above the din of the crowd so it seems to be silent

Art at the Park

Keep your eyes peeled for a comprehensive display of art at Safeco Field. There are works on display by some of the Northwest's most noted artists. There is the most amazing huge chandelier made of 1000 full-size translucent bats hanging in the main rotunda entrance.

My favorite piece of art is the one by artist Thom Ross called "The Defining Moment". It commemorates the history-making-moment when the Mariners beat the New York Yankees in the 1995 American League Division Series. Look for it on a wall on the main concourse level near the left field gate.

Directions and Parking at Safeco Field

From southbound I-5

• Exit at James Street, Airport Way, Fourth Ave. South, Dearborn St., or Atlantic St.
• Tip: exiting early will help you avoid the congestion closer to the ballpark. In particular, Fourth Ave. South can get quite backed up.
• Follow the signs for Safeco Field.

From southbound SR-99

• Exit at 1st Ave. South
• Safeco Field is one block south of the off-ramp.

 From northbound I-5

• Take exit 163 to Spokane Street then 6th Ave. northbound, Dearborn St., or Atlantic St.

From westbound I-90 (options)

•  To reach the Stadium Exhibition Center Garage follow the freeway to where it terminates at Fourth Avenue South and turn right. Turn right at South Royal Brougham to the garage entrance.
• To park at private parking lots continue south on Fourth Ave. and look on either side for flaggers who will direct you into the lots.

Leaving the game

Expect a lot of traffic congestion around the ballpark for about 45 minutes after each game, with heaviest congestion occurring along First Avenue at Royal Brougham Way and the corner of Atlantic Street and First Avenue.