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Well here's one newer park that doesn't fit the standard template. While the
template is fine, it's nice to see some cities try something different. And
that's exactly what Charleston did. Despite having plenty of space to work
with, the designers decided to put many odd angles in the outfield - the
strangest of which is in the left field corner where the outfield fence goes
literally straight back after the foul pole. The concourse is set behind the
seating areas and almost completely uncovered. It features several concession
stands and a small gift store. Concessions were on the whole average in
quality, variety, and price. One complaint I had about the concourse is that
all the concessions seem to bunched up on the third base side, leaving the
first base side of the concourse with the feel of dead space. The seating is
made up of box seats below the concourse, and benches (with backs) above the
concourse. A small roof covers the last several rows of bench seating. There
are two picnic areas - one down the right field line, and one at the top of
the seating on the third base side. For all the talk of Mike Veeck being a
promotional genius, I didn't notice much unique. The standard between inning
games were played (sumo wrestling, race the mascot, etc.) and many of the
same sound effects were used. Music is blared a bit too loud, especially when
the PA announcer is trying to talk over it. I was also disappointed that the
starting lineups were not announced - one of the only parks I've encountered
that doesn't do this. I had read many articles about how scenic Riley Park is,
but I didn't get the same impression. The river is not in view and there are
many trees/shrubs that are blocking the view beyond the outfield fence.
Actually, trees surround the park giving it almost a hidden feel. Parking is
plentiful in surface lots, but is a bit expensive ($3-$4) and far from the
park. Overall, I enjoyed my visit to Riley Park as it's nice to see a park
built in different mold, but there were a few aspects with regard to the
atmosphere and the park that could use some improvement.

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