When the Houston Astros moved from Astrodome to Minute Maid Park in 2000, they were the first team to play their home games under a retractable roof. Though the retractable roof was not the only reason for the Astros’ move to a new stadium, it did provide the team with a different perspective on playing outside. In fact, the retractable roof at Minute Maid Park is said to be a tribute to the railroad yards of the past. Learn more in Houston.

The Astros have played more than 1,500 regular-season games at Minute Maid Park since the park opened in 2000. They’ve won the 2004 Major League All-Star Game and have played in the post-Harvey World Series. However, the team hasn’t played in a World Series game under the roof since 2005.

The retractable roof at Minute Maid Park is made of complex steelwork. It covers 14.6 miles and takes 14 to 20 minutes to open. Typically, the roof is closed for temperatures below 65 degrees and for the threat of rain and sustained winds over 30 mph. For that reason, the retractable roof only opens during the middle of a game.

The roof is designed to keep bugs and rain out of the park. When it’s open, the sky is visible in all directions. While it may not be as impressive as Astrodome, Minute Maid Park has many amenities behind its center-field fence.

Fans can also watch games in the out-of-town scoreboard, which is housed on a 19-foot wall in front of the elevated boxes. It is a popular place to watch a game. Additionally, the Astros’ home run porch has a classic gasoline pump that displays the number of home runs the team has hit since the park opened.

Since its opening in 2000, Minute Maid Park has hosted a wide variety of events. For example, the team has participated in professional wrestling matches and boxing events. There are also restaurants, bars, and golf shops to enjoy. In addition, the park has been the site of large-scale music concerts.

With its retractable roof, Minute Maid Park offers Houstonians a view of the downtown area while still allowing them to stay cool in the summer. This feature is one of the most unique features of the park.

Although the Astros have played under the roof four times during 81 games in the park, they prefer it remain closed. That is, unless it’s the middle of a game, in which case the roof can be open. Typically, the roof is closed during the spring, summer, and fall.

Despite the fact that the Astros played a record number of regular-season games under the roof last season, they lost to the Chicago White Sox in three games in the Division Series. Meanwhile, they were defeated in the World Series by the Chicago Cubs in six games. Despite that, the retractable roof has been a key part of the Astros’ success at Minute Maid Park. Learn more about The Holocaust Museum Houston Texas.