Hammons Field, just 30 minutes from Branson, is home to the Springfield Cardinals and may be a ballpark for a minor-league team, but this facility has no trouble in delivering a big-league experience. At a cost of $32 million, it seats 7,986 people in the stands and about 2,500 more people in general admission. It's located in the northern edge of Springfield's downtown area, actually in the shadow of the tremendous Hammons Tower. There is plenty of parking just across the street in a brand new parking garage for a small fee. However, there is free parking available around the downtown area if you don't mind a little walking. When going to a game at Hammons Field, you'll be surprised at how friendly the staff are; you can chit-chat with ticket takers at the gate, the vendors, or even security guards.
The food is fantastic, too. There are a variety of things to chose from, like hotdogs, pretzels, cotton candy, even a Domino's Pizza that will bring your food to your seat. Of course, there is beer for sale as well as mixed drinks. Kids are treated to a little extra something at Springfield Cardinals games aside from maybe a souvenir at the gift shop. At the end of the game, the Springfield Cardinals, in uniform, always sign autographs at the gate.
