FNB Field - Harrisburg Senators
- Marc Viquez
- 2 days ago
- 6 min read
Updated: 22 hours ago
Photos by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey
Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.71
FNB Field 245 Champion Way Harrisburg, PA 17101
Year Opened: 1987
Capacity: 6,187
Harrisburg Senators Island Vibes
FNB Field is home to the Harrisburg Senators, the Washington Nationals' Double-A affiliate in the Eastern League. It is one of the more unusual minor-league stadiums in the country, having undergone two major renovations between 2008 and 2010 that transformed it from a standard steel-and-aluminum venue into a modern, state-of-the-art facility.
The stadium opened in 1987 as Riverside Stadium and was a generic venue. The $45 million renovation project added a public plaza and entrance, new left-field seating, an outfield bar with drink rails, a whole new seating bowl, new suites, a press box, and a midway design with activities for younger fans. Renovations before the 2026 season included a larger video board, a two-story clubhouse, and an expanded boardwalk.
FNB Park is on City Island, a scenic 63-acre park that is home to various trails, athletic fields, a beach area, and an authentic paddlewheel riverboat that offers public cruises. The island has a vibe all to itself before and after a Senators game.
The stadium was known as Commerce Bank Park (2005-2009), Metro Bank Park (2009-2016), and today as FNB Park after its merger with Metro Bank in February 2016. What hasn't changed is the ball club's affiliation with its major league franchise, which has been in place for almost 40 seasons under the Montreal Expos/Washington Nationals.
Food & Beverage 4
There are a lot of items to choose from at FNB Field; just like with many other stadiums, it's wise to take a look around before making your final decision. You might be surprised at what you can get during a game.
The Spot is a grill located right near the main entrance to the ballpark. They are known for their Spot Dogs (served with a homemade meat sauce, onions, and mustard), which have been served in town since 1939 and at its original downtown location. However, today the restaurant's Legacy lives on at all Senators games. It is still family-owned, and they operate the grill and cash register during the game.
The Midway area underneath the left field bleachers features Backstop BBQ that offers barbecue nachos, pulled pork, and brisket, and Mooga’s Wings serves up wings, boneless wings, tenders, and mozzarella sticks. The Mac Shack is a new feature and offers a weekly mac and cheese dish depending on who the Senators are playing.
If you are looking for the basics, there are plenty behind the seating bowl behind the backstop. Fans can choose from footlong hot dogs, chicken tenders, chicken sandwiches, pizza slices, burgers, fries, dog bowl nachos, and flatbread pizzas. The Rascal burger is a unique combination of a cheeseburger, jelly, and bacon on a hot dog roll.
There are plenty of options for alcoholic drinks at the Scoreboard Bar, Third Base Bar, and the Dugout Bar at the Plaza Level. Fans can choose from domestic and premium craft beers, along with mixed and canned cocktails, wine, frozen cocktails, and Pepsi products if you do not drink.
Atmosphere 4
Since FNB Field was designed in various stages, it does not look like your typical minor league stadium. Its house is a boardwalk, a midway, a collection of life-size bobbleheads, and a bar underneath the video board. There are also multiple vantage points from multiple sections, including the Harrisburg skyline and Susquehanna River.
The left field boardwalk area has quite a few food options along with table top seating and leads visitors towards the main grandstand and Concession area. Right behind the Ollie's cheap seats in left field is the team's official pro shop offering quite a range of merchandise. Just downstairs behind the right field bleachers is the Midway that offers carnival-like games for younger fans and families. There are also a few great concession stands to choose from in this spot as well.
Beach ball toss during the game, photo by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey
The main entrance is in the left-field corner of the stadium and opens up to a boardwalk down the third base line. There is bleacher seating and tabletop seating along the line. The area is wide open and leads fans to multiple parts of the stadium, including the concession area behind the main grandstand and the Senators All-Time team in the form of life-size bobbleheads that include Bryce Harper, Cliff Floyd, and Stephen Strasburg.
The Scoreboard Bar is in right field and underneath the video board. The area offers bar stools and chairs, along with standing room areas to enjoy the game. The bar offers craft and domestic beers, along with local wine and cocktail drinks.
Neighborhood 4
FNB Field is on City Island and inside City Island Park, a 63-acre area that offers quite a bit to enjoy before, or even after, the game. Some trails wrap around portions of the island and offer stunning views of the city buildings and bridges. The island includes an authentic paddlewheel riverboat that offers public cruises,
The Harrisburg Beach Club is a great way to end your night. The restaurant offers a food and drink menu that features specialty cocktails, draft beers, smashburgers, nachos, and other shareables. The drafts are $4 and can be enjoyed while watching the sunset on the outdoor patio where customers toss cornhole bags.
There are dining options off the island, easily accessible off the Market Square Bridge that include Tequila Willies, Dockside Willies, and Duke’s Riverside Bar & Grill. On the opposite side and accessible from the pedestrian Walnut Street Bridge in downtown, options include McGrath’s Pub, The Brickhaus, and JB Lovedraft’s Micropub.
Outside patio of the Harrisburg Beach Club, photo by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey
Fans 3
The Harrisburg Senators have a nice fanbase that supports them annually at FNB Field. The crowds are festive for a midweek game, and there is a lot to keep them busy during their visit. The diehard fans sit in the main grandstand and focus on the game on the diamond, while many others enjoy a night out with friends and family. It is a nice combination to see at a minor league baseball game.
Access 3
Since FNB Field is on an island, getting to it can be a challenge. The parking is on the south end of the island, and the traffic can be somewhat slow and cumbersome when looking for a spot right before a game. Parking on City Island is limited and is not guaranteed. The parking rate is $5 cash or $5.50 by card.
There is also VIP parking behind the stadium’s outfield wall that warns people of possible tickets or a tow if illegally parked. Several spots in front of the Harrisburg Beach Club are free but require a 15-minute walk.
Another option is to park in downtown Harrisburg and walk across the Walnut Street Bridge. Free meter parking is available, and there are also paid lots. There is also public transit to the game from the train station at Market and Aberdeen.
Inside the ballpark, fans walk up a set of stairs through the main entrance, and more stairs lead fans to the Midway section behind third base. However, the stadium features a wraparound concourse with multiple seating areas, eateries, and restrooms.
Return on Investment 4
The cheapest tickets start at $11 for the Ollie’s Cheap Seats behind left field and close to the main entrance. Box Seats and Scoreboard Bar Seats are $13; Field Box and Dugout Box seats are between $15 and $17. Club Seats start at $45 and include access to the Victory Club and complimentary dinner, soda, and water.
Parking for the game ranges from free to $5.50, plus other options off the island with access from the Market Street Bridge. If parking on the island for the game, arrive a little early to avoid traffic. After the game, enjoy the Harrisburg Beach Club for a drink or to soak up the scenery.
Extras 4
FNB Field earns a point for its location on City Island. Fans can enjoy the sunset at the marina restaurant, play outdoor games, walk trails, or take in a few innings of adult kickball or volleyball matches. Plus, there is the view of Harrisburg from across the river.
The second point is for The Spot, an iconic restaurant serving hot dogs and burgers since 1939. The original brick-and-mortar location closed in 2007, but fans can grab a Spot dog during every Senators game at FNB Field.
The stadium earns a third point for its giant photo of Market Square from game 1 of the 1940 World Series between Cincinnati and Detroit. Folks can sit down at a table and enjoy their meal while they also have a clear view of the Susquehanna River.
The midway is a festive area behind the right-field bleachers that serves barbecue, wings, and beverages. There are also inflatable outdoor games for children and families.
Final Thoughts
FNB Field is a fun ballpark to visit with its own distinct vibe and design. It is not like your other minor league ballparks, and attending a game can be an adventure that won’t hurt your wallet.
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Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter @ballparkhunter and his YouTube channel. Email at Marc.Viquez@stadiumjourney.com
