The days of the “cookie cutter” stadiums in Major League Baseball have been long gone.
Newer, innovative stadiums with all the perks have taken over. When you look at it, most modern baseball stadiums have become more fan friendly these days. Whether you live on the East Coast, West Coast, the Deep South and Midwest, baseball parks are modern as can be.
This countdown of these crowned jewels will be ranked with a mixture of history as well as elegance. These are the top 10 best ballparks to visit.
10. Yankee Stadium: It’s not the old house that Ruth built, but it’s still a sight to see. The exterior of the stadium gives this ballpark the “Ol Stadium” reminisce. Historic Monument Park honoring past Yankee greats is a must see.
9. Fenway Park: The home of the Boston Red Sox since 1912. From the intimidating “Green Monster”that stands 37 feet tall in left field to “Pesky Pole” in right field is history in itself. Fenway Park has produced numerous memorable moments from Carlton Fisk’s Homer in 1975 to their first world championship in 100 years (2004).
8. Wrigley Field: The “Friendly Confines” of Wrigley has brought history since it opened in 1914. The auxiliary scoreboard is manually run by hand. Nice! The ivy brick of the outfield wall turns dark green when the heat turns up in Chicago. A traditional flying of the Flags after the Cubs win or lose produce a blue flag with a white “W”, or a white flag with a blue “L” . The oldest ballpark in the National League is a must-see.
7. Dodger Stadium: “Blue Heaven on Earth”, is what Dodger fans called this crowned jewel. Nestled in the San Gabriel Mountains, Dodger Stadium has produced memorable moments from Sandy Koufax’s no hitters to Kirk Gibson’s historic homer in 1988. The second oldest ballpark in the National League, has a feel of history every time you walk through the turnstiles.
6. Busch Stadium: The home of the St. Louis Cardinals. The stunning overview of this park is beautiful. From the famous “Gateway to the West Arch” to the handsome brick exterior, this Stadium environment is one of the best in baseball. A true Midwestern gem!
5. Oriole Park at Camden Yards: This awesome venue has seen some memorable moments over the years. This park opened in 1992, therefore it was the first “retro” park in existence. The old B&O warehouse beyond right field creates the ever so popular back drop. Cal Ripken Jr’s record setting games played feat was witnessed at this beautiful venue.
4. Coors Field: This breathtaking park located in downtown Denver, has its own microbrewery and beautiful sights of the Rockies mountain range. Surrounded by a lively neighborhood, this park has a wide variety of eateries outside the park. The retro- chic architecture creature comfort and fountains. Sip a Coors Light from the famous “Rock Pile” seats above and beyond centerfield.
3. AT&T Park: Located in the China Basin, in San Francisco, Ca this popular venue boasts some of the greatest atmospheres as well as views in Major League Baseball. From the famous Garlic Fries to Ghirardelli Chocolate, the home of the Giants has produced the record setting Barry Bonds home run season. Views of the San Francisco and Bay Bridge has made this ball park a must-see.
2. Petco Park: One of the most breathtaking ballparks for one of the most breathtaking cities in the world, the home of the Padres offers a great skyline and beautiful surroundings. Overlooking the San Diego Bay, the color of the seats and roof color pay homage to the white, sandy beaches and blue skies of the San Diego.
The popular Western Supply Building signifies history of this downtown district. Whether your watching the game for free outside the stadium, in the “Park at the Park” grassy berm or taking a stroll at the nearby Gas Lamp Quarter, this relaxed atmosphere is simply the best on the West Coast.
1.PNC Park: The home of the Pittsburgh Pirates, offers angled seats toward the field, and the best skyline in sports.
The awesome view of the Roberto Clemente bridge, also as the best out of town scoreboard in Major League Baseball. Heck, even the light towers look cool. This venue offers charm as well as well as intimacy for any fan of sports. Simply the best.