Metropolitan Stadium Era
Home of the Twins and Vikings from 1961 to 1981
Metropolitan Stadium (often referred to as "the Met", "Met Stadium", or now "the Old Met" to distinguish from the Metrodome) was an outdoor sports stadium in Bloomington, Minnesota, a suburb of Minneapolis. It opened in 1956 as a minor league baseball park for the Minneapolis Millers and later became the home of the Minnesota Twins (1961–1981) and the Minnesota Vikings (1961–1981). The site is now the Mall of America, which opened in 1992.
- Years Active
- 1961–1982
Lore & Background
The stadium was built on a plot of farmland in Bloomington, chosen as approximately equidistant from downtown Minneapolis and St. Paul. Construction began June 20, 1955, after a dispute with property owners was settled. The stadium opened on April 24, 1956, with a minor league game between the Millers and the Wichita Braves. It was not officially named "Metropolitan Stadium" until July of that year. The Minnesota Vikings played their first game at the Met in 1961, after the team joined the NFL as an expansion team.
In Their Own Story
The wind howled across the frozen turf of Metropolitan Stadium on a bleak January afternoon in 1970. Fran Tarkenton huddled with his offensive line, breath visible in the air, as he called out the play against a formidable Green Bay defense. The crowd, bundled in heavy coats and scarves, stood silent in anticipation. As the snap came, the stadium seemed to hold its breath, the only sound the crunch of cleats on frozen grass. Tarkenton scrambled, evading a tackle with his signature agility, before launching a deep pass that sailed perfectly into the end zone. The roar that followed was not just cheers, but a communal release of years of hope and struggle.
Reader's Guide
The Met was known as a hitter's park with short foul lines—330 feet to left and right—and was built using cantilever construction to eliminate obstructed views. For football, the gridiron ran from around third base to right field, and wooden bleachers were brought onto the field during football season. In 1965, a large double-decked grandstand was installed in left field, paid for by the Vikings in return for reduced rent.
Did You Know?
- The stadium was originally built for the Minneapolis Millers of Minor League Baseball, not for high school football.
- The Minnesota Vikings' first game at Metropolitan Stadium was in 1961, after the team joined the NFL as an expansion team.
- The site of Metropolitan Stadium is now the Mall of America, which opened in 1992.
Frequently Asked Questions
What years defined the Metropolitan Stadium Era?
This foundational period spanned from the franchise's inaugural season in 1960 until their move to the Metrodome in 1982. It covers over two decades of early team history before they transitioned to an indoor facility.
Where was Metropolitan Stadium located?
The venue was situated in Bloomington, Minnesota, serving as the Vikings' home ground for the majority of their first twenty years. Fans gathered at this open-air site to support the team through various Midwestern weather conditions.
Who were the key leaders during this time?
Legendary head coach Bud Grant led the squad for most of the era, while quarterback Fran Tarkenton became a franchise icon. Their guidance helped establish the Vikings' reputation as a defensive powerhouse in the NFL.
What was significant about the playing surface?
Originally featuring natural grass, the field eventually saw artificial turf added during later years of operation. This change reflected evolving league standards while maintaining the traditional outdoor experience for players and fans.
Why is this era important to Vikings history?
It marks where the purple and gold identity began under Minnesota skies, setting the stage for decades of competition. The passionate fanbase cultivated here endured harsh winters to support their team during its formative years.
More in Club History & Eras
Elsewhere in the Minnesota Vikings universe
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