Photos by David Welch, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.86 Tommy Baker Field 930 Marietta Highway Canton, GA 30114 Georgia Impact website Year Opened: 1957 Capacity: 4,000 Paint the Town Pink Georgia Impact is a soccer club based in Cherokee County, Georgia, fielding both boys’ and girls’ teams at the select, elite, and academy levels. The club joined the Women’s Premier Soccer League (WPSL) as part of its 2023 expansion, marking the return of the league to Georgia following Peachtree City MOBA’s departure in 2021. The WPSL is a summer semi-professional women’s soccer league with players comprised mostly of collegiate players or recent college graduates. Georgia Impact plays its home matches at Tommy Baker Field, located on the campus of Cherokee High School. The field was built in 1956 when the school opened and was dedicated in 1958 to Tommy Baker, a student who had been stricken with polio and tragically passed away after a wheelchair accident at the school. The club has a partnership with Rangers Football Club of Scotland, which provides training support through visits from Rangers Academy staff who work directly with Georgia Impact coaches and players.   Food & Beverage   3 A traditional high school concession stand is located beneath the main stands on the home side of the field, offering standard fare, hot dogs, pizza slices, chips, candy, canned Coca-Cola products, Powerade, and bottled water. As the stadium is located on public school grounds, alcohol is not served. A tent on the concourse also serves hand-grilled tacos and quesadillas. For something sweet, cups of watermelon with Tajín and Chamoy are available. In addition, the Kona Ice truck, with its endless flavors of shaved ice, is a hit with kids, especially as the match winds down.   Atmosphere   3 Tommy Baker Field is a standard high school football facility that is used for multiple sports. The turf is lined for football, soccer, and lacrosse. This does create a busyness to the pitch, but is rather standard for most high school facilities. With field houses at each end of the field, it gives the stadium a rather cozy feel. The nearside touchline is very close to the elevated seating area, creating obstructed views of plays along the sideline. Because of this, sitting either in the front row of the lower section of seating, or as high up as possible, will allow you to see action close to the stands. The stadium has just one scoreboard that is used to show match time and score, which is topped with a modest-sized videoboard that plays a live feed of the game, though that screen can be hard to follow the action on. The match presentation follows basic soccer customs, including kids walking out onto the pitch with the players for pre-match introductions. Half time of the match features skills competitions from Impact’s younger teams, as other members of the program fire t-shirts into the stands with their t-shirt cannon.   Neighborhood   3 Tommy Baker Field is on the campus of Cherokee High School. The field seems a bit out of sight directly behind the school’s basketball gymnasium. Cherokee High School is on Marietta Highway, the main thoroughfare through Canton. Dining along this route includes typical national and regional chains, but one location of interest might be Williamson Bros. Bar-B-Q, one of Atlanta’s highly regarded barbecue spots. For more of a small-town vibe, downtown Canton is a five-minute drive from the stadium, with local coffee shops, boutiques, and restaurants. The Mill on Etowah, a 120-year-old cotton mill once owned by golf legend Bobby Jones’ grandfather, has been converted into a lively community space with green space, a stage and visual screen, Reformation Brewery, and retail spaces. Beyond this area, Canton offers fewer attractions for visitors, but The Mill provides a vibrant local feel.   Fans   2 (Note: This latest review was conducted during a significant rainstorm, which likely affected attendance.) There is no formal supporters’ group here, though younger players in the Georgia Impact system take on that role in spirit, banging on snare drums and occasionally setting off smoke bombs. However, this support is not sustained enough to strongly shape the match day atmosphere. For the most part, the fans at Tommy Baker Field appear to be family members of players, or the families of players in Georgia Impact’s pipeline. The team doesn’t seem to have been able to tap into the community much as of yet, though this does not necessarily lessen enjoyment of the contest.   Access   3 Cherokee High School is accessible via Interstate 575 from Atlanta, or from Highway 515 north of Canton. Traffic coming from the north is rather inconsequential, but if coming from the south, 575 can be a patience tester due to the influx of rush hour traffic during the evening commute to the suburbs. If using GPS to navigate to Tommy Baker Field, the directions likely lead to the less convenient parking lot. Instead, using the entry point at the traffic light and parking next to the gymnasium leaves the easiest access to the stadium. Inside the stadium, a walkway runs behind the home bleachers, connecting both ends. The field-level concourse divides the upper and lower seating sections. While the away side bleachers behind the benches are accessible, most fans sit on the home side.   Return on Investment   4 Tickets purchased online are reasonably priced and in line with other WPSL teams. After fees, general admission runs just under $11, with free entry for children. Parking is also free, making it a very budget-friendly family outing. Concession prices are what would be expected at a high school concession stand, e.g. $3 for pizza or a hot dog. The grilled tacos and quesadillas cost more, but offer good quality and value.   Extras   2 Following the match, the team throws miniature signed soccer balls into the stands. Though this seems like a small gesture, it goes along way in creating excitement with the younger fans in attendance. Georgia Impact has done well to try to ingrain itself locally; the team has hosted club bonding events and watch parties for the community at Reformation Brewery at The Mill on Etowah.   Final Thoughts Among the Georgia-based teams in the WPSL’s Peachtree Division, Georgia Impact appears to have a strong foundation and a clear vision for growth. Its women’s team plays an important role in advancing the professional pathway for female players in the region. With Cherokee High School preparing to relocate and the current campus transitioning to a career academy, it remains to be seen whether Tommy Baker Field will continue to serve as home to the Georgia Impact. Regardless, the club seems well-positioned for continued development and deeper community engagement as it continues to grow.

Photos by David Welch, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.57 Finley Stadium 1826 Reggie White Blvd Chattanooga, TN 37402 Chattanooga FC Women website Finley Stadium website Year Opened: 1997 Capacity: 20, 421 One City, One Club, One Love Chattanooga FC (CFC) was founded in 2009 as a men’s soccer team, but has since grown into a multi-team club. Along with its men’s squad , CFC launched a women’s summer semi-pro team in 2014, competing in the Women’s Premier Soccer League (WPSL). After going on hiatus following the 2018 season during a club reorganization, the women’s team returned in 2022 and continues to compete today. The club will also debut a developmental team, Chattanooga FC 2, in the fall of 2025. CFC Women plays in the Peachtree Division of the WPSL and are the only team in the five-club division located outside of Georgia. Founded in 1998, the WPSL is the longest-running active women’s soccer league in the country and, with 140 teams as of 2025, the largest.   Food & Beverage   3 Only one concession stand is open during CFC Women matches, but the menu covers the basics well; burgers, hot dogs, and fries headline the options. Beverages come from the Coca-Cola line of soft drinks and include Powerade and bottled water. Saturday matches may see a greater variety of food, depending on expected attendance. Beer choices include Miller Light in cans or Michelob Ultra on draft. Those with a more adventurous palate might be more interested in the Tiny Bomb, or the Hutton & Smith Tectonic Sessions and Ingenous IPAs on tap. High Noon seltzers are also offered for those who prefer something lighter.   Atmosphere   3 Finley Stadium has a split-seating design with individual seating structures along both sidelines. For Chattanooga FC women’s matches, only select sections of the south stands are used, which does a good job concentrating fans into a central location in the stadium, toward midfield and close to the pitch. When considering ideal seats, there is little in the way of a bad seat. Weekday matches seem to have limited seating, but when looking at ticket availability for Saturday matches, those seem to allow access to the grassy berm at the east end of the stadium; this makes sense for a stadium the size of Finley given typical crowd sizes. Chattanooga FC has done well to make the stadium their own, with branded signage, crest-covered padding, and kiosks promoting both the men’s  and women’s teams. UT-Chattanooga , who also use the stadium, has minimal branding during pro match days. The stadium has two scoreboards, one at field level showing basic time and score information, as well as a large video board at the east end with a live match feed and score shown. The nature of soccer does not create a lot of downtime during the match that would typically be filled with fan interaction pieces, but the drums, horns, and chants from the Chattahooligans, Chattanooga FC’s supporter group, creates an engaging atmosphere for all, even if you are not seated in their section. Also, in line with the area’s railroad history, goals are celebrated with a blast of the stadium’s train horn. This adds a small, but personalized, touch to the experience at Finley Stadium.   Neighborhood   5 Finley Stadium is in the southern reaches of downtown Chattanooga in the West Village neighborhood. The neighborhood that directly surrounds the stadium is in the process of an ongoing renaissance – while it sits along the Tennessee River, West Village was once more of an industrial area with warehouses and foundries, but has now begun to develop into one of the up-and-coming parts of town. For example, First Horizon Pavilion was the one-time Ross-Meehan Foundry, which has now been converted to an open-air events space that typically sees weekend events. Just next door is Naked River Brewing Company, the unofficial pre-match gathering spot for the march down Reggie White Boulevard to the soccer stadium, while to the east is Southside Social, an “eat, drink, play” establishment with bowling and over half a dozen other games. Soon, the Chattanooga Lookouts’  South Broad District will be less than a mile away, just on the other side of I-24. Not only will this bring another high-profile piece of Chattanooga professional sports to the neighborhood, but along with it will come several shopping and restaurant options – this will complement the extensive entertainment choices that downtown Chattanooga already has to offer. Downtown Chattanooga is less than five minutes away and is often regarded as one of the top downtown areas in the United States. Attractions there include the Tennessee Riverwalk and Tennessee Aquarium, as well as Coolidge Park with its historic carousel. Dining ranges from upscale restaurants to gems like Main Street Meats, a butcher shop and restaurant combo; North Shore is another hotspot for niche eateries and coffee shops. Chattanooga has several museums, including the International Towing and Recovery Museum and Hunter Museum of American Art. The city is also rich in historical and cultural points of significance, with landmarks tied to key Civil War battles and the starting point of the Trail of Tears at Ross’ Landing, located just downhill from the soon-to-be-retired home of the Chattanooga Lookouts minor league baseball team,  AT&T Field . Just a short walk from Finley Stadium, the Hotel Chalet is on the grounds of the famed Chattanooga Choo Choo, while those a bit more attracted to outdoor adventures might want to check out Ruby Falls, Lookout Mountain, or Point Park, all offering stunning views of the city.   Fans   3 Fan turnout for CFC Women matches seems to draw roughly between 1,000 to 1,500 fans, and they tend to be actively engaged from kickoff to the final whistle. However, what is so special about the fan involvement here is the role the supporters' group, the Chattahooligans, play in setting a fun soccer atmosphere throughout Finley Stadium. With a club like Chattanooga FC who has teams that play in various leagues, including MLS Pro Next  and WPSL, as well as a team now that will compete in the United Premier Soccer League starting in the fall of 2025, the Chattahooligans come out to support not just one team, but the entire club, even on the road. Chattanooga FC is a publicly owned organization; this seems to create a deep tie between the fans and the club.   Access   4 Finley Stadium is conveniently located just off I-24, which runs south of downtown Chattanooga. The largest concentration of parking is on the north side of the stadium, with another lot adjacent to neighboring Chattanooga Market. Chattanooga also has a city-wide bike share program with a bike rack just outside the stadium’s north side, which definitely can be useful for locals or those staying nearby. For CFC Women matches the only entry point is the gates on 19th Street, closest to Reggie White Boulevard. Fans pass quickly through these gates with little to no wait time. Inside the stadium, access to the stands is a bit restricted, however, since fans are concentrated toward the center of the field, roughly from the 18-yard boxes on each end. While it can be a good place for younger fans to be able to run around a bit, the berm at the east side of the stadium is typically not accessible. Ticket availability for Saturday matches might change this, though, so make sure to check availability ahead of time for potential additional seating options. Despite not being able to access the entire stadium, access to the seats that are available is simple; they are easy to get in and out of. The only drawback is the pitch is not visible from the concourse.   Return on Investment   4 General admission tickets run just under $13, and reserved seats at midfield just over $16. If available, berm seating costs less than $10. When purchasing tickets, all prices include taxes and fees. Parking in the lots around Finley Stadium can run $6 to $8, depending on whether it is a weekday or weekend match; Friday games have weekend rates. There is some street parking in the area that is free after 6 pm, so getting to the stadium early can be rewarded with free street parking. Concessions here are well priced and not subject to super-inflated stadium prices.   Extras   3 Flags representing each of the nationalities of the CFC players fly along the side of the supporters’ section. After the match, the entire team rushes to the supporters’ section to celebrate and show their appreciation. Gestures like these go a long way in strengthening the bond between the team and the community, fueling the passion that drives every moment on the field. Chattanooga FC is in the process of completing their headquarters, which will be within walking distance of Finley Stadium – the headquarters facility will feature  office space for the club’s staff and coaches, apartments for the players, a training facility, retail space, a restaurant, and a rooftop bar. This development should go a long way in solidifying the soccer atmosphere of the neighborhood.   Final Thoughts Chattanooga FC’s WPSL team embodies the spirit of a grassroots organization, strengthened by the unwavering support of the community. Despite the challenges of creating an intimate matchday atmosphere in a large stadium, the club succeeds through its deep local roots and authentic connection with fans. The energy and passion of the Chattahooligans also plays a vital role – turning every game into more than just a sporting event, the supporter’s group becomes a reflection of the community’s pride in the Blue.

Photos by Gregory Koch, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.43 Durham County Memorial Stadium 750 Stadium Drive Durham, NC 27704 Tobacco Road FC website Durham County Memorial Stadium website Year Opened: 1958 Capacity: 8,500 Soccer on Tobacco Road Tobacco Road FC, based in Durham, North Carolina, competes in USL League Two, the fourth tier of soccer in the United States. USL League Two is primarily an amateur and semi-professional league featuring players 23 or younger, and most players are college-age or have recently exhausted their college eligibility and are hoping to receive a professional contract. Tobacco Road FC plays their home games at Durham County Memorial Stadium, an 8,500 seat facility that opened back in 1958 and was renovated in 2010. The stadium also hosts several other local high school and college teams, including Shaw College football , who plays their home games here despite being located in neighboring Wake County. Food & Beverage 2 There are several concession windows at Durham County Memorial Stadium, although only one was open when we visited and it closed at halftime. This stand served a pretty basic menu consisting of candy, popcorn, hot dogs, cookies, soft drinks, and bottled water. The cookies are called "Frisbee cookies", have sprinkles, and are quite large. Prices are reasonable with nothing being more than $5. Both cash and card are accepted but there is a $1 processing fee for using a card. There was also a sign on the concourse directing fans to a stand that supposedly sold fried Oreos, but no such stand existed in the direction the arrow was pointing. There was a tub containing soda bottles underneath the sign that someone could theoretically take and drink for free, although we don't recommend this as they had been sitting out in the Carolina heat for quite some time and were probably gross. Atmosphere 2 There are large sets of bleachers on each side of Durham County Memorial Stadium, although only one side is open for Tobacco Road FC games. With only a couple hundred fans in attendance for a typical home game, even this one set of bleachers is far too large, with the crowds spread out over a great distance. The setup is typical of a stadium from the 1950s in that it is a mix of concrete and metal. While this is a throwback to another era of stadiums, it was not an era known for having the best stadium designs. A running track surrounds the field, so even the front rows are not particularly close. They are also elevated, which is not a bad thing given the viewing angles. Since Durham County Memorial Stadium, hosts many different sports, there are a lot of different lines on the field. Just remember that soccer is the yellow ones and ignore the others. The field is oriented east-to-west rather than north-to-south like most other soccer stadiums. This means that the sun sets behind the goal on the left as you face the field and there will be no shade anywhere in the bleachers in the evenings until the sun sets. The sun will also be in your eyes as you look towards that goal, so bring wear a hat and sunglasses. It does provide some pretty spectacular views of sunsets though. There is not a whole lot going on here other than the game itself. Fans sitting up close will be able to hear the coaches at the nearby benches shouting at the players and referees and everything that is going on on the field. A scoreboard behind the goal to the right of the bleachers shows only the clock and team scores, although it pretty large for this level and seems capable of showing more elaborate things if they wanted it to. Neighborhood 3 Although Durham is a fine city, Durham County Memorial Stadium is located on the northern fringes of it, far from Downtown and the heart of the action. Duke University Hospital is right next door, but there is not much in the vicinity that you would actually want to visit. There are some chain places on nearby Roxbury Street, as well as Koumi Japanese Restaurant, but we recommend driving about ten minutes south to Downtown Durham where you will find many more options. Downtown is a fantastic area, but the fact that is so far away from the stadium with not much in between means the rating here is purely average. Fans 2 Tobacco Road FC drew a couple hundred fans for the game we attended, spread out throughout the giant set of bleachers. This is far from ideal, and those fans who did attend were mostly silent throughout the match. There was one kid in attendance blowing a noisemaker and squeezing a squeaky toy to cheer on her team, but other than that, it was very quiet. Part of this is that the layout of the stadium is just not conducive for good crowds, but even taking that into account, the crowd atmosphere here is not good. If Tobacco Road does start to draw crowds, there are plenty of seats to put them in here, but right now they are not. Access 4 Durham, North Carolina is easily accessible via I-85, I-885, and I-40, with Durham County Memorial Stadium located on the northern edge of the city. A large parking lot is available on the south side of the stadium. It is half-gravel, half-paved, but the paved part never fills up so you shouldn't have to drive on the gravel. There is a giant pothole in part of the lot that is roped off, preventing fans from getting through that part of the aisle, but you should be able to go around. Although there appear to be several gates to the stadium, most of them are actually exit only. You will enter on the left end by what are signed as ticket booths, although you actually buy your ticket at a table in the stadium itself if you did not buy it online beforehand (more on that in the next section.) There are several restrooms in the stadium which are more than sufficient for the crowds Tobacco Road FC draws. If they ever come close to selling out the stadium, the restroom capacity might pose a problem, but they do not have to worry about that right now. Return on Investment 4 Tickets to Tobacco Road FC games are just $10, an excellent deal. You can buy online in advance, but the single game ticket will not list any particular home game. Just show the receipt at the table as you come in and they will let you pass. Concessions are very affordable as well, if limited, and parking is free. A Tobacco Road FC game is an excellent value overall, but there isn't enough here to earn the top score. Extras 0 There are no real extras here unfortunately. Final Thoughts A Tobacco Road FC game isn't the fanciest experience, and Durham County Memorial Stadium is a classic 1950s stadium with little charm, but a visit here can still be a fun way to spend a summer night watching soccer at a low price. The team has potential to do a lot more than they are currently doing, and we hope that they will find opportunities to grow the fan experience here.

Photos by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey If you fancy yourself in Louisville for the day, leave sometimes for an evening at the races. During June, fans can watch four races, hear live music, and enjoy food specials at Churchill Downs.  Twilight Thursday At The Downs opens at 5 PM and allows visitors the opportunity to walk around the spacious grounds, along with taking in the ambiance of the historic racetrack. The tickets are $10 at the box office, and the parking is free of charge. Eight races take place, and in between fans, can grab a bite to eat at one of the rotating local food trucks in The Paddock. Each week is different, but four trucks are parked near table tops. Along with the trucks, fans can enjoy $2 domestic beers and a selection of cocktails, with many featuring bourbon from Woodford Reserve. Live music is performed on the Paddock stage. Once it is post-time, visitors make their way to the general seating area of the Paddock, where they will place bets as low as 10 cents. The first race starts at 5 PM, and the last starts at 8:23 PM. As the thoroughbreds near the finish line, the roar of several thousand fans spread out in the box seats comes alive with anticipation. Many hope to go home a few dollars richer, but many enjoy the ambiance of the historic racetrack that has been housing horse racing since 1875. In between racing, fans can get an up-close look at the horses near the track. It is not uncommon to pet a few on the head as they make their rounds around the dirt track. Also, don’t hesitate to ask a few locals about the historic venue; they will be more than happy to give you information. The Southern hospitality is on display, and many show up wearing pink and yellow dresses along with large floppy hats. Once it is over, grab a souvenir at the gift shop near the entrance. The large store has a lot to choose from shirts, shot glasses, plaques, glasses, posters, and large floppy hats for men and women. The best part is that traffic moves smoothly out of the parking lot after the event has concluded. Other special events at Churchill Downs during the Spring Meet Events from May 8 to June 28 of this year include Downs After Dark on select Friday nights, Teacher Appreciation Day on June 19, and Stephen Foster Day on June 28.  When you have concluded your tour of the Louisville Slugger Museum, tasted enough bourbon at the Evan Williams Experience, or dined out somewhere in NuLu, head over to Churchill Downs for a nightcap. ------ Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter @ballparkhunter   and his YouTube channel .  Email at Marc.Viquez@stadiumjourney.com

Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.57 Empower Field at Mile High 1701 Bryant St Denver, CO 80204 Denver Broncos website Empower Field at Mile High website Year Opened: 2001 Capacity: 76,125 The Stadium with a Real Altitude The Denver Broncos are one of the most storied franchises in the NFL. They were one of the teams to join the NFL in the NFL-AFL merger and enjoyed great success , winning championships in both leagues. The team is a two-time Super Bowl Champion and appeared in the game on four other occasions. Empower Field at Mile High Stadium has a seating capacity of 75,125. It features 8,200 club level seats and 144 luxury suites. The seating bowl at the stadium is in the shape of a horseshoe in keeping with the team’s equine-based moniker. It features a ribbon board down each of the sidelines and a huge HD scoreboard at the south end of the stadium measuring 220’ X 40’. Open captioning is projected on 4 ribbon boards in each corner of the stadium for those with hearing impairments. Throughout their existence, the team has played in a venue known as Mile High Stadium in recognition of the field’s presence in the Mile High City and its elevation of 5,280 feet above sea level. This has always been an advantage of the home team, as visiting teams often have difficulty acclimating to the altitude and getting winded easily. The first Mile High Stadium was built in 1948 and served the team through 2001. The present facility opened in time for the 2001 season. In the era of corporately tagged stadiums, Mile High Stadium has been known as Invesco Field (2001-2011), Sports Authority Field (2011-2018), Denver Broncos Field (2017-2018) and its present name of Empower Field since the beginning of the 2019 season. The Mile High Stadium portion of the name has been retained throughout all these changes. This review was done prior to the rechristening of the stadium, when it was still Denver Broncos Field at Mile High Stadium. Food & Beverage 3 Mile High Stadium offers a wide variety of food and beverages to suit all tastes. They include nachos ($5), hot dogs ($5), brats ($9), cheesesteaks ($10), burgers ($9), pulled pork sandwiches ($10), pork belly BLT’s ($15), french dip sandwiches ($12), corned beef sandwiches ($15), chicken tenders ($9), pizza ($7.50), tacos ($10) and tamales ($8). Snacks include popcorn ($5), peanuts ($4.75) and pretzels ($5). The stadium offers Coca Cola brand sodas for $5, bottled water for $7.50, domestic beers for $7, premium beers for $9.25 and wine for $7.50. Atmosphere 4 The Broncos begin building a great atmosphere for the fans before you even enter the stadium. The south end of the complex includes the Sports Legend Mall, which is the ground zero for pregame tailgating. It includes space for vendors, a stage for musical entertainment and the Ring of Fame, which includes plaques honoring the elite Broncos of the past. As you move closer to the stadium you will encounter one of the centerpiece art installations at Mile High. The Stampede features seven bronco horses charging up an elevated stream similar to the waters found in the nearby mountains. Another defining feature at Mile High is located at the northern end of the complex. The Mile High Monument is a miniature replica of Mile High Stadium. It includes exhibits highlighting the defining games and outstanding performances that have taken place inside of the stadium. The pregame Fun Fest takes place here with performances by the Stampede Drumline, the Broncos Dance Team and appearances by the Broncos cheerleaders and Miles the Mascot. Once inside the stadium your eyes will be drawn to the top of the video board in the south end zone. You will see a white bronco raising up on its back legs. This is Bucky the Bronco, a fixture of the first Mile High Stadium that has found a new life at the new venue. You will also notice the stadium seating grid is in the shape of a horseshoe in keeping with the team name. The atmosphere reaches its zenith during the pregame introduction of players. The team is led out onto the field by an Arabian gelding named Thunder, who also charges through the end zone after a Broncos score. The crowd reacts to entry of the team with a demonstration of Rolling Thunder, the stomping of the feet on the metal bleachers, which makes the whole stadium shake. Neighborhood 3 Empower Field at Mile High Stadium is in the Sun Valley neighborhood in between downtown Denver and the Rocky Mountains, just west of I-25. This gives fans in the West stands a birds eye view of the downtown Denver skyline and fans in the East stands a view of the beautiful view of the Rocky Mountains as a backdrop to the stadium. Amongst the stadium’s neighbors are the Pepsi Center, home of the NHL’s Colorado Avalanche and the Denver Nuggets of the NBA, Elitch Gardens Amusement Park and the University of Colorado Auraria campus. If the schedule works out, you can often attend a doubleheader of a Broncos game followed by a nightcap of an Avalanche/Nuggets game next door. Fans 5 Denver Bronco fans are amongst the most loyal and loudest fans in the NFL. They have sold out the 76,125-seat stadium for every game since its construction. The waiting list for season tickets presently has 85,000 names on it and has an expected wait time of 10-15 years. The fans show their loyalty by their presence in some of the most frigid conditions this side of Green Bay during the November and December portions of the regular season and the playoffs. The Denver fans are known for their bright orange attire as a show of support for the team (it also shows up very well on TV games when there is a blizzard going on). Their capability of creating noise when needed is known as Rolling Thunder and is created by the fans stomping their feet on the metal flooring of the stadium. This causes the stadium to vibrate. Access 3 The home of the Broncos can be easily accessed via I-25 and taking exit 201-C coming from the north or the south. Once off the freeway, finding parking can be problematic as there are only 7,500 spaces at the stadium itself. These typically are reserved for season ticket holders. An additional 15,000 spaces are available at nearby lots serving the Pepsi Center, the Denver Aquarium and the Aurora Campus. The Denver Rapid Transit District (RTD) light rail system is a very popular option, as its C, E and W lines service the Mile High Stadium Station. The stadium is also one of the few NFL venues that can be accessed via bike. The South Platte Bike Trail runs right by the east side of Mile High Stadium. The stadium has more than 360 bike racks available for fans who choose this mode of transportation. Once at Mile High Stadium, it is important to know your seat location before entering the venue. Because of its horseshoe shape, the stadium does not have a 360 degree concourse. You will also find the main concourse to be somewhat confusing, as you enter at one level, then need to go down a level to reach a majority of the food and beverage stands and the lower level of the stands. Empower Field at Mile High Stadium utilizes the same security precautions as all other NFL stadiums. It is best to travel as light as possible into the stadium, with any belongings in a clear plastic bag. Return on Investment 4 Ticket prices for Broncos games are amongst the highest in the NFL at an average price of $297.This is due to the decades-long record of sellouts over the years. Sometimes tickets can be found in the $40-$50 range when the game features an opponent with a poor record or a non-traditional opponent from another conference. Parking is $30 in the main Broncos parking lot on a first come, first serve basis, while lots at the alternate lots average $15-$20. The best buy travel-wise is to buy a day pass on the RTD light rail for $6. The concessions prices are about average for the NFL, but they do offer a wider menu selection with many regional favorites. Extras 3 The Colorado Sports Hall of Fame is in Mile High Stadium. It salutes athletes who grew up in Colorado or had their sports careers in the state. Membership covers all sports and includes athletes from high school sports all the way up to the professional level. Empower Field at Mile High Stadium hosts a wide variety of non-Broncos events throughout the year. These include the Rocky Mountain Showdown football game between Colorado State University and the University of Colorado, CONCAF Gold Cup soccer contest and the state championship football games for every level of Colorado high school football. It was also the site of then Senator Barack Obama’s acceptance speech after he was named as the Presidential nominee at the 2008 Democratic National Convention. The Bud Light Rooftops are located on the 500 level of both the east and west stands. They offer full bar service and heated high-top tables along with terrific views of both downtown Denver and peaks of the Rocky Mountains Final Thoughts A great team history, great fans, a diverse menu of food and beverage items, along with the natural beauty of the nearby Rocky Mountains makes Empower Field at Mile High Stadium a high priority for anybody’s NFL bucket list. It also makes a great add-on activity for your ski vacation in late fall and early winter. Make sure you arrive early to enjoy the western hospitality and the many pieces of stunning public art that dot the stadium complex.

Photos by Dave Cottenie, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.86 Huntington Bank Field 100 Alfred Lerner Way Cleveland, OH 44114 Cleveland Browns website Huntington Bank Field website Year Opened: 1999 Capacity: 67,407 The Dawg Pound Editor's Note: On September 3, 2024, Huntington Bank and the Cleveland Browns announced a 20-year partnership that included stadium naming rights. These rights continue whether the Browns play at their present stadium or move to a proposed domed stadium in Brook Park. It is difficult to argue that there is an NFL fanbase that has endured more heartache than the Cleveland Browns. Founded in 1946 and named after legendary coach Paul Brown, the Browns, more than any other NFL team, would hold steadfast to their traditions. Success came early for the Browns with four AAFC championships and four NFL championships, all before the Super Bowl era, ending in 1964. Outside of Paul Brown, legendary running back Jim Brown has captured the hearts of Clevleanders. However, with the purchase of the browns by Art Modell in 1953, the decline of the Browns would begin. Modell famously fired Paul Brown in 1963 and an ostracized Jim Brown abruptly retired in 1965. The Browns would come close to the successes they enjoyed in the forties and fifties with the Kardiac Kids of the late seventies and a pair of heartbreaking close calls for quarterback Bernie Kosar in the late eighties with trips to the Super Bowl thwarted by “The Drive” and “The Fumble.” With other professional teams in Cleveland gaining new facilities in the nineties, the Browns were left with decrepit, massive Cleveland Stadium, owner Art Modell moved the Browns to Baltimore to become the Ravens in 1995. The NFL immediately recognized the value of the Cleveland market and the steadfast loyalty of the fanbase and announced an expansion team to be granted to Cleveland for the 1999 season. The lynchpin to the Browns expansion team, which would retail all records, trademarks, and championships, was the building of Cleveland Browns Stadium. New Browns owner Art Lerner would see his team take the field in the 1999 season in the new stadium owned by the City of Cleveland with a capacity of over 67,000. The new Browns have not enjoyed much success in the past 23 years. Al Lerner died in 2002. The Lerner Family sold the Browns to Jimmy and Dee Haslam in 2012 and they remain current owners of the team. To go along with a lack of success, the Browns are most known for one of the most recognizable fan groups in the entire NFL, the Dawg Pound. Food & Beverage 4 As with any major sports venue, concessions are at the front of the consciousness of the team. The Browns offer concession options that are on par with other major sports venues. Some options include the Burger Kitchen, Tenders Love & Chicken, C-Town Eats, Michael Symon’s B-Spot, Here We Go Nachos, Meat and Cleaver, and Great Lakes Cheesesteaks. All of the expected stadium items can be found along with some items that will peak the interest of those looking for something more. The unique options at Great Lakes Cheesesteaks are one of the best choices, which include Cleveland Nachos (nachos with parmesan fondue, green onions, bacon, and thyme) and the local favorite, Polish Boy, a brat topped with coleslaw, BBQ sauce fries, and crispy onions. Cleveland Browns Stadium has a large selection of beer in multiple bar areas. Goose Island Beware of the Dawg may be the choice. A curious feature of beverages at Cleveland Browns Stadium is the lack of Coke or Pepsi. RC Cola, 7Up, and Dr. Pepper make up the soft drink selections. Atmosphere 4 The exterior of Cleveland is an attractive, almost modern-looking, silver/chrome siding with plenty of glass. There are plenty of huge player banners that hang from the exterior for fans to see as well. For many years Cleveland Browns Stadium was known under the corporate name FirstEnergy Stadium. For the 2023 season, the name has reverted to Cleveland Browns Stadium. It is obvious that the Browns and/or the City of Cleveland are looking for a new corporate partner for stadium naming rights as there is little to no signage on the exterior that says “Cleveland Browns Stadium.” The Cleveland Browns Hall of Fame can be found on plaques on the exterior of the stadium along Alfred Lerner Way, the hub of pregame activity before a Browns game. Two spots fans will assuredly want to see before entering the gates are the Otto Graham statue in the southwest corner of the stadium and the Jim Brown statue in the southeast corner of the stadium. Entering Cleveland Browns Stadium brings fans into the main concourses, which are fairly spacious and have plenty of orange highlights to give color to the otherwise dark breezeways. Several banners are honoring Browns players who are members of the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Other highlights include a Joe Thomas mural honoring his 10,363 consecutive snaps played in the NFL. Inside the seating area, fans will find the three tiers of seating around the field which runs from west to east. The lower bowl is continuous with separated second and third tiers. The south side is the spot to get that perfect center logo picture, which for the 2023 season was Brownie the Elf. The fascia of the third deck is where the Browns showcase their highest honors. The 1946, 1947, 1948, 1949, 1950, 1954, 1955 and 1964 championships are listed in the southeast corner. The rest of the fascia notes the members of the Browns Ring of Honour, including Paul Brown, Frank Gatski, Leroy Kelly, Bobby Mitchell, Joe DeLamielleure, Mike McCormack, Lou Grozaand new for the 2023 season, and Joe Thomas. Each end of the stadium features large videoboards which are crystal clear. The other main attraction at Cleveland Browns Stadium is in the lower bowl behind the east endzone, The Dawg Pound, the preeminent team supporter section in the NFL, is found there and has found a bit of a life of its own. The gameday production at a Browns game is as good as any in the NFL. In the pregame, the Browns enter from the northwest corner through some bulldog statues with gates. The requisite pyro and smoke machine along with flagbearers and cheerleaders are part of the entry. In the pregame, a guest takes a guitar, painted in the fashion of the visiting team, and smashes it against a podium to the delight of the 65,000 fans in attendance. The Browns mascots, Chomps and Brownie, can be found throughout the stadium, interacting with fans. Neighborhood 5 Despite what seems like a popular narrative, Downtown Cleveland is one of the most underrated areas in the country. Cleveland Browns Stadium is located on the lakeshore, on the northwest side of Downtown Cleveland. There are a ton of options for pre or postgame fare for those who are not tailgating. Some options include Nuevo Modern Mexican & Tequila Bar, Masthead Brewing Co., Harry Buffalo, Margaritaville, Leather Stallion, and the Winking Lizard. For fans looking for other sporting options, there are plenty. Just up the road at Progressive Field, fans can find the Cleveland Guardians of MLB. Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse is shared by the Cleveland Cavaliers of the NBA and Cleveland Monsters of the AHL. College basketball is also not that far away from the Cleveland State Vikings. There are also plenty of tourist options that are not based on sports, including the Great Lakes Science Center, USS COD, International Women’s Air & Space Museum, and the must-see, Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. For fans wishing to stay near the stadium the Hilton Cleveland Downtown, Cleveland Marriott Downtown, and Doubletree Cleveland Downtown are all close by. Fans 5 Cleveland Browns fans are among the most ardent and loyal in all of sports. In the 2022 and 2023 seasons, the Browns have averaged more than 67,000 fans per game. Although that ranks the 19th and 20th in the NFL in 2022 and 2023 respectively, that does account for 100% of the capacity. Browns fans are loud and proud and show up regardless of the weather conditions, which should not be underestimated. The Dawg Pound is also the most famous fan area in the NFL. Access 4 Getting to Cleveland Browns Stadium is not difficult for a downtown stadium. Cleveland Browns Stadium is located along Lake Erie, on the northwest side of Downtown Cleveland. Cleveland Browns Stadium is surrounded by 3rd Street, Alfred Lerner Way, and Erieside Ave with Lake Erie just beyond to the north. The stadium is north of Cleveland Memorial Shoreway and north and west of I-90 so fans will have to traverse the city a bit when coming from out of town. There are plenty of parking options with the Pier to the north and plenty of downtown garages. The best option is to use a parking app and prepay for parking to ensure a spot. For fans who wish to take public transit to the game, there are a few options. The rapid transit and Amtrack and buses are found to the south. Fans should check out the Greater Cleveland Regional Transit Authority website for fares, maps, and schedules. Getting around Cleveland Browns Stadium is not too difficult and washroom facilities are decent. With security protocols in professional sports consistently changing, Stadium Journey recommends fans consult the Cleveland Browns website for the most up-to-date security protocols, including prohibited items. Return on Investment 3 The Cleveland Browns are not a cheap experience, as are all NFL experiences. According to the Fan Cost Index, the Browns are the 17th most expensive experience in the NFL at $593, above the NFL average. Tickets for the Browns begin at $70 and go up to $294 for the lower sidelines. Dawg Pound seats are $189. Concessions are what one would expect for the NFL and parking is going to go for over $20 for sure. Although the return that the Browns give the fans is solid, the steep investment is difficult to get over, as is the case for all NFL experiences Extras 2 An extra mark for the Dawg Pound, a revolutionary fan experience that began at Panorama at the grassroots and has been copied throughout the NFL. An extra mark for the perseverance of the Browns fans as they have struggled with many seasons of non-competitive teams since the team’s return in 1999. Final Thoughts The Cleveland Browns are a solid NFL experience at Cleveland Browns Stadium. Being part of a fanbase that is as ardent passionate and loyal as any in the NFL is an attractive part of the Browns experience. Cleveland is also a great tourist destination and fans will enjoy making a full weekend of it. ---- Follow all of Dave’s sporting adventures on YouTube, Twitter, Threads and Instagram @profan9.

Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.00 Highmark Stadium 1 Bills Drive Orchard Park, NY 14127 Buffalo Bills website Highmark Stadium website Year Opened: 1973 Capacity: 71,608 Saying Goodbye to The Ralph With the merger of the AFL and the NFL, a new stadium was required for the Buffalo Bills to remain part of the league. A move from the old War Memorial Stadium, or Rockpile as it was known, required owner Ralph Wilson to explore some relocation possibilities. This hastened the stadium project and Rich Stadium was built in 1973. The capacity, which was the major drawback at the time, was inflated to the modern-day 71,000. Over the years, owner Ralph Wilson became one of the most iconic in the NFL and the Bills would go on to enjoy some dubious success appearing in four straight Super Bowls in the 90s. After the death of Ralph Wilson, and the scare of possible ownership by Donald Trump, the Bills would settle into the sports portfolio of Terry and Kim Pegula, who also own the Buffalo Sabres among other properties. The naming rights of Rich Stadium would change hands a few times and the stadium would be known by the name of the founder for quite some time. In 2021, the stadium was renamed Highmark Stadium. There is not much time left for the former Ralph Wilson Stadium as a brand new, 64,000-seat, $1.4 billion stadium has been approved and will be built across from Erie Community College in Orchard Park. Food & Beverage 4 The concession scene at Highmark Stadium is decent. All of the expected stadium items can be found including hot dogs, burgers, popcorn, and others available. Some local favorite brands can also be found in the stadium including Dinosaur BBQ, La Nova Pizza, and Buffalo Wings. Pepsi products are the soft drink of choice and on most gamedays, especially later in the season, Tim Horton’s coffee would be the necessary item for warming up. In what most Canadians would find a curious development, the most prevalent beers at Highmark Stadium seem to be Molson Canadian and Labatt’s Blue, for decades fierce competitors. There is plenty available for fans to keep full, however, with such a massive tailgating scene in Orchard Park, many do not worry too much about what is available for eats. Atmosphere 3 Highmark Stadium is one of the simplest in the NFL. The exterior is not overly sophisticated and there isn’t too much about the venue itself that inspires creativity or excitement. The east entry is where the Bills Store can be found and just outside of it, fans will find the 716 sign and a Bills logo on the turf, perfect for photo ops. The Founders Plaza also features a bronze statue of Ralph Wilson which is a spot fan will want to see. On the inside, it is clear why Highmark Stadium is up for replacement. The seating bowl is wide open, not a positive characteristic when the elements of a Western New York winter are factored in. The lower bowl, which is clearly the best place to sit for some protection from the wind, features plastic stadium seats, while the upper bowl has bleacher benches with rounded backs. The field runs from west to east and the main videoboards are found above the east and west end zones. For that perfect fifty-yard line logo picture, fans will want to sit on the south side. The interior of the seating bowl gives fans a massive look at the Bills Wall of Fame. Buffalo legends are enshrined on the facia and include the names of Jack Kemp, Pat McGroder, Tom Sestak, Billy Shaw, Ralph Wilson, Elbert Dubenion, Mike Stratton, Joe Ferguson, Marv Levy, Joe DeLamielleure, Robert James, trainer Edward Abramoski, Bob Kalsu, George Saimes, Jim Kelly, Fred Smerlas, Kent Hull, Darryl Talley, Jim Ritcher, Thurman Thomas, Andre Reed, Steve Tasker, Bruce Smith, Booker Edgerson, Phil Hansen, Bill Polian, Van Miller, Lou Saban, Cookie Gilchrist and (unfortunately) O.J. Simpson. The gameday production is not over the top. At the game reviewed, a local high school marching band performed and four Apache helicopters partook in a flyover. The Bills enter the field from the east, through a number of Bills logo structures that blow smoke and pyro. The cheerleading squad, the Jills has been disbanded for a number of years under suspicious circumstances regarding being severely underpaid. Overall, there is not much that really stands out about the gameday production and there is more of a focus on the game itself, which is not a bad thing. Neighborhood 2 Highmark Stadium is located on the outskirts of Orchard Park, south of Buffalo. All of the lures of Downtown Buffalo is lost on the location of the football stadium. Highmark Stadium is immediately surrounded by parking lots. Although the Bills boast one of the top tailgating scenes in the country, there are very few options for fans before or after the game to get food or drink. The SUNY Erie Community College campus is to the west of Highmark Stadium. A couple of small options include Polked Yolk Abbott, O’Neills Stadium Inn, Danny’s South, and Louie’s Texas Red Hots. A better idea would be to stop in Buffalo proper and find an option there. There are a number of sporting options in Buffalo, but nothing really out as far as Highmark Stadium. Downtown, fans can find the homes of the Buffalo Sabres, Buffalo Bandits, and Buffalo Bisons. Canisius College plays hockey downtown at LECOM HarborCenter and basketball on their campus at Koessler Athletic Center. The University at Buffalo can be found in Amherst, northeast of Buffalo, where the Bulls play on campus. Football is found at UB Stadium and basketball is at Alumni Arena. Fans may also consider the Seneca Buffalo Creek Casino downtown. There are a few options for hotels in Orchard Park. The Stadium View Inn and EconoLodge Buffalo are the closest. Fans 4 Buffalo Bills fans have the most fascinating dichotomy. Support for the Bills is stronger than ever with their most recent winning incarnation. Support was always strong for the Bills who have that “little engine that could” mentality, determined to remain afloat with the NFL giants coming from one of the smallest markets in the league. Special attention must be paid to the hardiness of the fans who brave the worst elements in the NFL. On occasions when there is tremendous snow, Bills fans will volunteer to shovel the stands to make the stadium slightly more hospitable. The Bills Mafia moniker has struck a chord in Buffalo and is a badge that is worn with pride. Bills Mafia has claimed hundreds of thousands of dollars in donations to various charities, most notably to charitable organizations deemed important by opposing players. The dichotomy comes on gameday, where Bills fans are among the loudest, rowdiest, and most drunk in the NFL. The tradition of destroying tables at the tailgate is no longer newsworthy; it happens so often. Bills fans can be rude, crude, and merciless. Access 2 Highmark Stadium is one of the toughest stadiums to enter and exit. The rural stadium, located west of Highway 219, has few entry points. Due to the early nature of the tailgate, getting into the parking lot is actually much easier than getting out with fans trickling in at different times. Upon leaving after the game, fans should allot at least one to two hours just to get out of the parking lot. It is curious how difficult it is to get out of Highmark Stadium when college venues in similar situations seem to have it all figured out. There is some public transit that Abbott Road and some gameday transit available. Fans who are interested should check out the Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority website for fares, maps, and schedules. Getting around Highmark Stadium is not terribly difficult, however, the concourses can get crowded with the weather being an issue and during halftime. Washroom facilities are hit and miss as there are still some washroom facilities that feature the dreaded troughs. Return on Investment 3 With the recent success, the Buffalo Bills have enjoyed comes greater scarcity and cost with regard to tickets. The entire 2022 season stock of tickets was sold out very quickly and tickets on the secondary market are starting at around $130 per ticket. According to the Fan Cost Index for 2022, the Buffalo Bills are well below the NFL average of $590 and are the 27th most expensive experience in the NFL at $520. However, the NFL is an extremely expensive ordeal and the “once in a lifetime” pricing model is a detriment to their experience. Combine the price with the very real possibility of some less-than-comfortable weather and there is plenty to be desired with the return on investment for the Buffalo Bills. Extras 3 An extra mark for the Buffalo Bills galvanizing their existence in Western New York with the approval of the new stadium to be built near the current Highmark Stadium. An extra mark for the members of Bills Mafia making significant financial donations to numerous causes that have affected both Bills players and their opponents. An extra mark for the growing recognition and appreciation of the four Bills Super Bowl appearances in the 90s. An extra mark for Highmark Stadium is the only NFL stadium in New York State. An extra mark LOST for O.J. Simpson is still being recognized on the Bills Wall of Fame. Final Thoughts It will be interesting to see what a brand-new stadium will bring to the Buffalo Bills experience. There were plenty of opposing views as to what the new stadium should look like and where it should be. Until that time, the Bills are still making memories at the former Ralph Wilson Stadium. NFL fans who have yet to visit Highmark Stadium may want to make their way there before it is too late. ----- Follow all of Dave’s sporting adventures on Twitter @profan9 and on Instagram.

Photos by Eric Moreno, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.57 American Bank Center 1901 N. Shoreline Blvd Corpus Christi, TX 78401 Corpus Christi Tritons website American Bank Center website Year Opened: 1978 Capacity: 10,000 Corpus Christi Tritons – American Bank Center Known as the “Sparkling City by the Seas,” Corpus Christi, Texas has long been a vacation destination for Texans seeking a reprieve from summer heat, thanks to the cooling waters of the Gulf. The largest city along the Texas gulf coast has also often found itself the home of numerous minor-level professional sports leagues looking to gain a foothold in the Lone Star State. This is especially true of pro arena/indoor football. No less than five teams have called the Sparkling City their home, including the current Corpus Christi Tritons . Founded in 2024 as members of American Indoor Football, they would become inaugural members of the new Arena Football One (AF1) league in time for the 2025 season. Like the rest of their arena and indoor counterparts, the Tritons call the venerable American Bank Center their home. Since opening in the late 1970s, American Bank Center has seen numerous renovations over the years, all with the goal of having this venue remain the city’s premier entertainment venue. Read on to learn more about it.   Food & Beverage   2 I was almost tempted to have this score be an incomplete rather than what I gave it; I have been to multiple events over the years at American Bank Center and have eaten a lot of the food here. This time around, something was a little different. It probably had to do with the game I attended being the last one of the season for the Tritons; none of the concession venues in the upper level were open and only three of the stands on the main concourse were. At these stands you can get chopped brisket sandwiches, popcorn, candy, pepperoni and cheese personal pizzas, nachos, and soft pretzels. Fountain drinks, bottled water, and beer are offered too, and there is also a bar where alcoholic offerings are on the menu. The items they have are fine, so what keeps the score as low as I have it? The reason is I couldn’t buy a hot dog anywhere in the venue – the one true food staple of American sports was not on the menu at any of the open kiosks. This might just be my pet peeve, but it did impact my enjoyment of the event. I know I’ve had them at American Bank Center before, so again, it may have just been the time of the season.   Atmosphere   2 The one true draw in terms of atmosphere at American Bank Center is its location. I would hazard that very few venues in North America allow visitors to gaze out onto palm tree-lined beaches and rolling waves every time they visit. The north side of American Bank Center is also walled with windows overlooking Corpus Christi Bay, and that’s a good thing. Aside from that, there is not much else that would denote this facility as home of the Tritons; this is to be expected though. The team does have a small merchandise table for fans interested in picking up gear, but not much else. Still, come for the view – it is really hard to beat.   Neighborhood   4 American Bank Center is located in Corpus Christi’s scenic downtown; it’s location on Shoreline Boulevard puts it right on the path of virtually all the city’s iconic attractions. Visitors can spend a day at either North Beach or McGee Beach, two of the prime spots in the area. Must see attractions include the Texas State Aquarium, USS Lexington Museum, and Corpus Christi Museum of Science & History. All offer a great opportunity to visit and see some of the best attractions the area has to offer, and are great ways to spend time before or after Triton games. Also in the area is Whataburger Field, home of the Corpus Christi Hooks , the double-A affiliate of the Houston Astros . The seasons overlap, so if you plan your visit, you should be able to catch a minimum of two games in Corpus Christi. For places to dine, you’re going to have your pick of fresh seafood options near American Bank Center. These include Railroad Seafood & Brewery, Landry’s Seafood House, and Pier 99 Restaurant. It’s a virtual must when you come to the Texas Gulf Coast to sample some of its legendary seafood; any one of the aforementioned options will get you a great meal, and all are within five minutes of the arena. However, if you want something a little different, I can’t recommend Snapka’s Drive Inn enough. This place is as old school as it gets and features a classic Americana menu with some great Tex-Mex thrown in. For lodging, Shoreline Boulevard offers an abundance of options – these include the Omni Corpus Christi Hotel  and DoubleTree by Hilton Corpus Christi Beachfront . Vacation rentals are also extremely popular in Corpus Christi, so your budget is your only limit here.   Fans   2 This is another area where I’m almost tempted to give the score an incomplete. Since the Tritons are still in their relative infancy, it’s safe to say they have yet to build up a significant fanbase. This is especially true for a city that has seen nearly half a dozen of these types of teams come in, and then fold in short order. That being said, I feel like there was a decent enough crowd at the most recent game I attended. The number was pretty good, but American Bank Center can be especially cavernous, so it felt eerily empty. I think the Tritons will need time to grow fans. Hopefully, this version of the Arena League will be able to sustain itself, and the Tritons will be able to hang around for a while.   Access   3 Corpus Christi is just about a two-hour drive from San Antonio and a little over a three-hour drive from both Austin and Houston. This makes it the most accessible city on the Texas Gulf Coast for visitors. As mentioned, American Bank Center is conveniently located in downtown Corpus Christi. As you approach the city it is unmissable, sitting prominently near the surf line. Corpus Christi International Airport is a short 10-minute drive from American Bank Center. It has daily flights to and from Dallas and Houston, for those not wishing to drive. Once onsite, parking is ample and plentiful in lots around the venue.   Return on Investment   3 Single-game tickets for the Corpus Christi Tritons start at $21 per person, though deals can be found on the secondary market. Parking will cost $15 in the lots at American Bank Center, but concessions are where the bargains truly lie, as the most expensive food items offered top out at just $7. If you’re in the area and looking for an inexpensive way to spend an evening, a Tritons game might be what you’re looking for.   Extras   2 I know that during the season, the Tritons offer several theme nights and giveaways; at the most recent game I attended, however, that was not on the agenda. With that said, the team does offer up a few of the tried-and-true staples of sports, such as their dance team, the Corpus Christi Sirens, and their mascot King Triton. The Sirens are perched in the south end zone and perform during the half, while King Triton can be found on the main concourse before the game, and down on the sidelines during it, for photo ops.   Final Thoughts I’m a football fan, so I will take the game where I can find it. Arena football, even as niche as it is, can still be a lot of fun, especially for younger fans. With that said, I would not put the Corpus Christi Tritons on anyone’s bucket list, yet. However, if they and the new AF1 can make this work, that might change in a few years. With that said, I think you should try to make your way to American Bank Center at some point; it’s still a great venue and the location is hard to beat. Follow Eric Moreno's Stadium Journey on X at @EricMoreno6477 .

To paraphrase the great Mark Twain, the rumors of Matthews Arena’s demise may have been greatly exaggerated. Earlier this week, Northeastern men’s and women’s hockey announced that they would be playing the 2025 portions of their upcoming schedules at their longtime home rink. As has been widely reported on Stadium Journey and elsewhere , Matthews Arena is scheduled to be demolished and replaced with a new facility due to structural deficiencies. The facility, which has been in use since 1910, is the original home of the Boston Bruins, the Boston Celtics, the Carolina Hurricanes, the Beanpot Tournament, and has served as home to most of Greater Boston’s college and High School hockey teams at some point in their history. Today, Matthews Arena serves as home to Northeastern’s men’s and women’s hockey teams and the men’s basketball team. In March, Northeastern submitted plans for a replacement for Matthews Arena . The review process and bureaucratic red tape pushed back the demolition and construction timeline, which will now start in 2026. With estimates of total construction time set at 30 months, the new facility will not be completed until the start of the 2028-2029 season. So, what will the Huskies do in the meantime? The men’s basketball team will simply move over to the Cabot Center alongside the women’s team, as they did during the pandemic. The situation for the hockey teams is much more complicated. Although there is no shortage of suitable rinks in and around Boston, coordinating schedules with their tenants will be difficult. Northeastern may have to play a road-heavy schedule for two seasons before moving into their new home. As it stands right now, the final hockey game at Matthews Arena is scheduled for Saturday, December 13 against Boston University. For visiting hockey fans who missed Matthews Arena’s farewell tour in 2024-25, this means, much like so many of our classic rockers, we have another farewell tour and another final chance to visit this grand old barn before it’s no more.   Follow Paul Baker’s stadium journeys on Twitter  and Instagram  @PuckmanRI.

Photos by David Welch, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.86 Decatur High School Stadium 310 N McDonough Street Decatur, GA 30030 Decatur FC website Year Opened: 2008 Capacity: 4,500 Loud and Proud for the Black and Gold Decatur FC is a semi-professional women’s soccer club based in Decatur, Georgia. Founded in 2024, the club competes in the Peachtree Division of the Women’s Premier Soccer League (WPSL). As of the 2025 season, the WPSL is the largest women’s soccer league in the world, featuring over 150 clubs, and is also the longest-running active women’s soccer league in the United States. The WPSL is part of the third tier of the U.S. women’s soccer pyramid, classified as an amateur and semi-professional league. It serves as a development platform for aspiring professionals, providing high-level competition and exposure during the summer months. Like many WPSL teams, Decatur FC is primarily made up of collegiate players. The club offers these athletes a valuable opportunity to train, grow, and compete throughout the summer and prepare for the start of their upcoming season in August.   Food & Beverage   4 At first glance, the concessions here might seem limited, but a closer look reveals high-quality offerings. Ford’s BBQ serves pork and brisket sandwiches, while vegetarians can enjoy a lentil sandwich; both come with two sides such as potato salad, chips, or slaw. Super EME offers quesadillas and burritos with a self-serve toppings bar that includes onions, several sauces, Pico de Gallo, guacamole, and slaw. Cups of fresh fruit, mango, pineapple, and watermelon are also available, with optional Tajín seasoning or Chamoy sauce. Beverages are a bit of a hodgepodge, with each stand selling their own drinks including Coca-Cola products, ginger ale, Gatorade, bottled water, coconut water, and Capri Sun. Given the stadium is on a high school campus, it shouldn’t come as much of a surprise that alcohol is not sold at Decatur FC matches. Gourmet popsicles from the popular King of Pops are also available.   Atmosphere   4 Decatur High School Stadium is a multi-purpose facility used for various sports, with football and lacrosse lines visible on the turf in addition to the soccer lines. Bleachers line both sides of the field, with the larger home section on the near side and the smaller, visitor section across the way. Seating on the visitors’ side of the stadium does provide the most relief from the sun, which sets at the far end. Apartments run along the exterior of the far side of the stadium, and fans often gather on balconies to watch from above, creating a unique addition to the atmosphere. The stadium’s scoreboard is tucked into the northwest corner of the facility. The scoreboard shows basic time and score information and is topped with a video board. While it doesn’t have a video feed of the game, the screen is typically used to show graphics of players subbing into the match, or to celebrate goals. Soccer does not have breaks in the action that would typically be filled with in-game entertainment, but Decatur FC has put in a lot of work off the pitch to help create the atmosphere in the stadium. For example, the players and coaches put on weekly free youth clinics, which not only go a long way in growing the game, but also help draw more fans into the stands, so there is more of a buzz during matches.   Neighborhood   5 The City of Decatur is one of Atlanta’s true neighborhood communities. The city square is about a five-minute walk from the stadium; this area is full of locally owned restaurants, brew pubs, and the renowned music venue, Eddie’s Attic. If grabbing a bite to eat, Grindhouse Killer Burger is directly across the street from Decatur High School Stadium, and the Iberian Pig in Decatur Square has a highly regarded Spanish tapas menu. The Brick Store Pub is well known for its extensive beer menu, and the area around the square is also home to numerous boutiques, bookstores, and coffee shops. For barbecue enthusiasts, some of Atlanta’s top BBQ joints like Fox Bros. Bar-B-Q, Community Q BBQ, and City Barbecue are just a short drive away. Decatur’s charm, walkability, and access to Atlanta also pair perfectly with a soccer outing.   Fans   4 Decatur is a proud community that throws its full support behind its hometown teams. In its first season in 2024, Decatur FC twice set a WPSL attendance record, with its largest attended game drawing 2,126 fans. And if the 2024 attendance is not impressive enough, this season’s opener drew 2,250 fans, again breaking the league record. The city is a strong supporter of the club – not only does the City of Decatur have their name and logo across the front of the kit, but banners are also attached to streetlights around the downtown area. In addition, MLS’ Atlanta United’s supporter groups, particularly the “Footie Mob”, lend a hand to Decatur FC in helping create a festive match experience. The support for Decatur FC runs deep and is one of the reasons the team was awarded WPSL’s “Franchise of the Year” award in its first season.   Access   4 Decatur is a city that prides itself as being Georgia’s most bikeable city; downtown Decatur has miles of protected bike lanes. Public transit is also easily accessible, with a MARTA train station just a short walk from Decatur High School Stadium, making it convenient to travel to matches without a car. Tickets are only available for purchase online, so coming prepared by purchasing prior to entering the venue might help save some time getting through the gates. Once inside the facility, fans enter a somewhat small plaza area where many often gather before heading to their seats – this area is also home to a souvenir tent, so can be a bit congested. From that point, fans can either take the rear walkway to the concession stands or go directly to the field concourse to get to their seats. The rear concourse does completely encircle the pitch, making the smaller far side bleachers behind the team benches accessible. Children tend to use the walkway closest to the school as a play area of sorts, however, so that side can be a touch more of a challenge to navigate.   Return on Investment   4 Adult tickets run just a shade under $13 after fees are added, and children’s tickets are under $7. Members of Atlanta United’s supporter groups are offered discounted tickets. Free parking is available in the school lot just south of Decatur High School Stadium. There is also street parking, and any metered parking is free after 6 pm; with Decatur matches mostly starting at 7 pm, this could be a good option. Parking at any of the pay lots around Decatur’s city square is also just a short walk from the stadium. Concession prices are a bit more expensive than what would typically be expected at this level, but the quality of the food more than justifies the higher prices.   Extras   2 Decatur FC invites its young fans on to the pitch during half time to take shots on goal, or simply to join an impromptu game. Decatur FC has also partnered with local businesses to provide up to 250 free tickets per game for community groups. This goes a long way in building a fanbase, which in turn helps build the excitement around the team and its matches.   Final Thoughts What Decatur FC has done in just its second year in existence is nothing short of amazing. Not only have they built a club that has been successful on the pitch, but has also quickly ingrained itself into the fabric of the Decatur community. The bond Decatur FC has already built with its community is evident, and goes a long way in creating a fun and worthwhile soccer experience down south.

Photos by Gregory Koch, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FAN FARE Score: 2.14 Ed Price Field 2920 School Park Road High Point, NC 27265 High Point Hushpuppies website Ed Price Field website Capacity: 500 Home of the Hushpuppies The Old North State League is a summer collegiate baseball league consisting of 24 teams, mostly in North Carolina. It is a summer collegiate wood bat league where college players play over the summer after their season ends. One team in the league, the High Point Hushpuppies, plays their home games at Ed Price Field. This is part of the High Point Athletic Complex, which also includes several other fields used by various teams and groups. Food & Beverage 1 There is one concession stand at Ed Price Field, serving a very basic selection of candy, chips, popcorn, bottled water, and soft drinks. At least the prices are reasonable, with nothing more than $3, but it's best to eat before or after the game. Food and drink can also be brought into the stadium, and we saw some fans openly consuming alcoholic beverages, but as this is a municipal park and North Carolina has notoriously strict alcohol laws, we are not sure this is entirely legal. Despite the team name, no hushpuppies are for sale here, which is slightly disappointing. Atmosphere 2 Ed Price Field is built into a hill in the woods of the complex. After walking through the gate (more on that later), fans can either put their own chairs on the top of the hill, as many do, or walk down stairs or a ramp to get to the bottom of a tall set of bleachers, then walk up and sit there. You will be watching through a chain link fence instead of netting, but it does not inhibit the view too much. There is not much going on here other than the game itself - no on field promotions or anything like that. Music is played between innings, but during play you can hear all the chatter on the field. The scoreboard in left-centerfield is not used for Hushpuppies games, but the PA announcer announces the score at the end of every half inning, which helps a bit. Neighborhood 2 High Point is one of three major cities in the Piedmont Triad of North Carolina, along with Greensboro and Winston-Salem. It is a medium-sized city with a lot to offer, but unfortunately Ed Price Field is in a residential neighborhood about a ten minute drive from Downtown. If you head down there to Main Street, Sweet Old Bill's is popular with locals, as are Frady's Taphouse and Eatery and Tom's Place. Fans 3 The Hushpuppies draw decently well considering this is a low-level league in a small, obscure ballpark and the myriad of other baseball teams in the High Point area and throughout the Piedmont Triad. They will either set up chairs at the top or bottom of the hill or sit in the bleachers. Many of them know the players personally and follow the team all season long. It is a great community feel at a Hushpuppies game, although outsiders will feel welcome as well. Access 2 High Point is located along I-85 and I-74, about halfway between Durham and Charlotte. Depending on traffic, it could take you between an hour and 90 minutes to drive from either the Raleigh-Durham area or Charlotte to get to High Point. It is part of the Piedmont Triad, which also includes the nearby cities of Greensboro and Winston-Salem. Getting to the field itself involves driving along several residential streets, and once you are in the complex, it is not immediately clear where to go from there. You will need to park in the lot in between the baseball and football fields, then walk down an unsigned path through the woods to a gate where staff will be standing. You can buy tickets in advance, or buy them at the gate with cash or card. However, since the team never sells out, and you will have to wait in the same line regardless, we suggest buying at the gate to save the $1.75 convenience fee. You will also get a physical hard ticket if you do this, which is always a plus. You will then continue down the path and either set your chair up at the top of the hill or walk down to the bottom of the bleachers and back up to your seat. Restrooms are located behind the concession stand and are of a sufficient size for the crowd. Return on Investment 3 Tickets to Hushpuppies games are just $10. Concessions are very reasonably priced as well, if limited. A visit here certainly won't break the bank, but there is not enough here for it to be more than an average value. Extras 2 One star for the real physical tickets, which are sadly far too rare today. The concession stand also sells a limited amount of Hushpuppies merchandise. Final Thoughts A High Point Hushpuppies game is a decent fan experience on a summer's night. While this isn't the elaborate fancy experience you will get at most other baseball stadiums in the Piedmont Triad and throughout North Carolina, this is small, friendly community baseball up close and personal. High Point locals who are fans of baseball will want to check this out at some point.

Photos by David Hegler, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.57 Sutter Health Park 400 Ballpark Dr West Sacramento, CA 95691 Map It Sacramento River Cats website Sutter Health Park website Year Opened: 2000 Capacity: 14,014 Capitol Cats The Sacramento River Cats have played on the banks of the Sacramento River in Sutter Health Park since 2000 and have been developing talent for Bay Area teams ever since. They were the Oakland A’s minor league affiliate from 2000 to 2014 and have been the Triple-A affiliate of the San Francisco Giants ever since 2015. Along the way, the River Cats have won 12 division titles, seven conference titles and five league titles, the latest of each being in 2019. Sutter Health Park has rarely strayed from its original capacity of just over 14,000 with more than 10, 600 seats and large sections of grass to sit on by the outfield as mainstays in the ballparks configuration.  Seeking a brighter future in Las Vegas, the A’s have moved into Sutter Health Park for the next couple of years and share the facility with the River Cats. Due to their move, the A’s renovated the quarter-century old park in the 2025 offseason, adding new baseball themed lights and a clubhouse behind the left field wall, as well as a video board that should be the envy of the minor leagues. Food & Beverage 4 Spread throughout the ballpark are restaurants that meet the palate of virtually anyone who has an appetite. Places such as the Golden Spike Chophouse, the Cadillac Diner, Coop & Kennel Pub serve a variety of delicacies. Sutter Health Park sells Tri-Tip sandwiches for $18 while also offering standard ballpark grub such as hot dogs for $7-$12 and cheeseburger and fries for $16 to hungry River Cats fans.  Atmosphere 5 From the moment you walk into the ballpark, you are greeted by numerous guest services representatives who are clad in Hawaiian shirts. From this look alone, it is clear that Sutter Health Park’s operators main goal is to entertain the fans. At the night of this review, it was Dino Night, so all through the game, the crowd was encouraged to dance to some tunes in imitation of dinosaurs while the film crew showed their moves on the jumbotron. During a break in the action, several people in dinosaur mascot suits (including Barney) went on the field and danced in front of the crowd.  Guest services tosses out free t-shirts and rubber baseballs  to the crowd. At the end of the evening, the crowd is invited to stick around for the fireworks show that often accompanies weekend games. It is the perfect way to end the evening. The seating consists of two levels, with most of the upper deck designated as suite seating. The most striking feature at Sutter Health Park is the bright yellow Tower Bridge beyond the right field. Neighborhood 3 With the ballpark being just down the road from City Hall, that part of West Sacramento is pretty congested with traffic and construction being a constant. Still, it’s a pretty safe place to go to a game.  Just across the Sacramento River are several excellent restaurant options for before or after the game such as Joe’s Crab Shack  and the Firehouse Restaurant . Embassy Suites by Hilton Sacramento  and the Delta King Hotel  are in the same neighborhood. Culturally, Sacramento has a lot to offer as well. You can go to the state capitol for a tour, check out the Crocker Art Museum or the California State Railroad Museum. For other sports in town during baseball season, you may be able to see the NBA Sacramento Kings , the USLC Sacramento Republic FC , a Sacrament State Hornets baseball game , or an MLB Athletics game (for the next few seasons). Fans 4 Even with Sacramento suffering through an intense heat during our visit, there were plenty of fans in the stands this Saturday afternoon, with nearly three-quarters of the grandstands filled. The fans are enthusiastic throughout the contest and the place is a constant celebration of the game as guest services are always keeping the crowd on its toes with different events and ball/t-shirt tosses held throughout. Access 4 Parking is aplenty at Sutter Health Park  and the prices are remarkably affordable. There’s a ride-share lot just across the street where Uber and Lyft drivers can drop and pick you up too. While there is a security check-point upon entry, the line is almost non-existent.  As you walk the concourse, lights molded in the shape of half of a baseball adorn and decorate the area. The bathrooms are clean and spacious. Return on Investment 3 Sutter Health Park and the Sacramento River Cats offer an affordable time watching America’s pastime. The grandstand goes anywhere from $30 to $45 while the section directly behind home plate is $125. The outfield grass section costs between $16 to $20. Parking goes for $15 to $24. Extras 2 Quite possibly the neatest extra in the whole ballpark is the grass area in the outfield where fans can watch the games from the comfort of their own blankets or lawn chairs (depending on the height). There are numerous trees in the back where folks who can’t stand the oppressive sun can lounge with a terrific view of the game still in their sights.  The Athletics spent a lot of time and money to give Sutter Health Park the best video board in the minors and it does not disappoint. The picture is perfectly clear and the visual effects are alluring on the massive 75 feet by 32 feet video board.  Final Thoughts Sutter Health Park has a remarkably welcoming environment that is always fully prepared to give River Cats fans the very best experience possible. From a history buff’s perspective, this site is certainly alluring. The center field wall looks like a miniature version of the Polo Grounds and the baseball-themed lights aligned throughout the concourse are a design as old as Ebbets Field. To top it off, one of the ballpark’s largest luxury suites, the Solon Club, is named after the Sacramento Solons, a team from the old PCL. Sutter Health Park is a terrific blend of old and new, you just have to look close enough.

Photos by Gregory Koch, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.43 McCrary Park 138 Southway Rd. Asheboro, NC 27205 Asheboro Zookeepers website McCrary Park website Year Opened: 1946 Capacity: 1,400 Zooks Baseball in Asheboro Nestled in the small city of Asheboro, North Carolina (population just 27,000), you will find McCrary Park, home of the Asheboro Zookeepers, a summer collegiate baseball team in the Coastal Plain League. McCrary Park is a historic stadium that opened in 1946, but it has been renovated many times since then. The most recent renovation included adding a new turf field, which is less prone to rain delays and rainouts than the old grass one. The Asheboro Zookeepers were founded in 1999 as the Asheboro Copperheads, a nod to a species of snake that is prominent in the local area. In 2022, they changed their name to the Zookeepers as an homage to the North Carolina Zoo, which is located in Asheboro. Food & Beverage 4 There are two concession windows located behind home plate at McCrary Park, directly in front of you as you come in, although they serve identical menus so go to whichever one has a shorter line. Meal options include Zaxby's chicken sandwiches, cheeseburgers, hot dogs, pizza slices, nachos, and barbecue sandwiches. Snacks include ice cream, popcorn, peanuts, pretzels, chips, pickles, candy, and cotton candy. Bottled Pepsi products and water are available, as is Cheerwine, a cherry flavored soda that is made in North Carolina and is often served locally along with products from national brands. There is also a bar down the right field line that serves alcohol to fans of age. Prices are quite reasonable - other than alcohol, the barbecue sandwich is the most expensive thing at just $7. Note that McCrary Park is a cashless facility, so bring credit cards to pay. Atmosphere 4 McCrary Park is a classic ballpark with a brick facade reminiscent of days gone by. It is a small, intimate stadium that seats just 1,400 fans in a few sections behind home plate. The front rows are reserved chairbacks, with some general admission metal bleachers above them. Every seat will have an excellent view of the action, although you will be watching through a net due to the proximity to the field. A scoreboard in left-centerfield shows the linescore and other basic information. A few of the seats in the grandstand are behind poles and may have a partially obstructed view, but the Zookeepers draw small enough crowds that if you accidentally buy one of these seats, you should be able to move somewhere else and nobody will stop you. Most of these seats are along or near aisles, so if you sit in the middle of the row, you should be fine. The grandstand is covered, and overhead fans blow cool air on spectators, which really helps with comfort on a hot summer night. The Zookeepers have a mascot, who appropriately is known as The Zookeeper. He is in a zookeeper costume, only with the giant head and costume you would expect of a mascot, rather than the normal body proportions you would expect of a real zookeeper. The usual contests take place on the field or in the stands in between innings. The Zookeepers love playing sound effects during the game. Some of these are the usual ones, like the sound of broken glass after foul balls, but they also are quite fond of playing the old Windows XP sign-off sound after the other team makes an out, as a way of saying "good-bye" to the batter. Neighborhood 2 McCrary Park is in a residential area just off US Route 220 and Interstates 73 and 74. There is next to nothing within walking distance – or even a short drive – of the field. Most of the action is off US 64, near the North Carolina Zoo, but that is more than five miles from the stadium. The Flying Pig and Black Powder Smokehouse are a little closer, near Fayetteville Street, as are several other businesses, but these are still several miles away. Fans 3 While Asheboro typically does not sell out, they still draw good crowds to what is a small, community stadium. Asheboro is a small town of just 27,000, but still manages to draw hundreds of fans a game to the local ballpark. The fans are local community members, and while their knowledge of the teams and the game of baseball varies wildly, they are still here to cheer on the local ballclub and have a good time. This is a fine small town crowd, but they'll never draw the same crowd as some bigger teams even within the same league. Access 4 McCrary Park is located in a residential neighborhood a couple miles off I-73. There is a large lot behind home plate, with additional parking available in the outfield and on the nearby street if necessary. Keep in mind some of the closest spots are within foul ball territory, so park there at your own risk. Most of the lot should be safe to park in, so you need not worry about car damage from baseballs. Restrooms are available on the concourse behind home plate right by the entrance and are clean and sufficient for the crowds. Return on Investment 5 Tickets start at $8.48 for seats in the general admission bleachers. Most reserved chairbacks are just $11.63, while VIP seats in the first couple rows are $13.73. In compliance with a federal law that went into effect in 2025, these prices include all fees, which explains the odd amounts. Concessions are quite affordable as well, and parking is free. Overall, an Asheboro Zookeepers game is an outstanding value. Extras 2 Look for the statue of a young pitcher on the concourse. According to a plaque, this is meant to honor Asheboro's baseball heritage. Zookeepers merchandise is sold out of a cart on the concourse behind home plate. Final Thoughts McCrary Park is an old stadium, but it manages to carefully balance the history of the ballpark with the need to change and improve amenities for modern times. The result is a community experience that allows fans to enjoy a ballgame in a great setting for nine innings on a warm summer night at a very affordable price. Baseball fans in North Carolina will definitely want to make the trip down to Asheboro to check out a Zookeepers game.

Photos by Jack Quinn, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.29 Coors Field 2001 Blake St Denver, CO 80205 Colorado Rockies website Coors Field website Year Opened: 1995 Capacity: 50,398 Major League Baseball in the Rockies Coors Field, which opened in 1995, has been the home of the Colorado Rockies for 30 years. It is the third-oldest stadium in the National League and was the first stadium to implement a heated infield, keeping the grass warm and green in the spring and fall. Due to the altitude, Coors Field holds the MLB record for most home runs in a single season with 303 in 1999.   Food & Beverage   4 Coors Field offers a variety of foods, including the typical ballpark menu of hot dogs, pretzels, nachos, etc. Concession stands and mobile servers can be found in all different parts of the stadium. Large signs and logos help direct fans towards the type of food they are looking for. Perhaps the most famous food option for fans is the Rockie Dog, a foot-long hot dog topped with peppers, onions, and sauerkraut. The funnel cake stand also falls victim to long lines of fans looking for this popular dessert item. Specialty foods include BBQ from Famous Dave’s in section 152, a gluten friendly cart in section 143, and gourmet burgers from Helton Burger in section 153. It may come as no surprise that Coors products are the most common beer available at the ballpark, with many concessions offering Miller Lite, Coors Light, and Blue Moon on tap. There are also local IPAs available at some concession stations as well; the concession prices tend to be very high, though that is typical for MLB venues. If it’s your first time attending a Rockies game, you’ve got to grab yourself a Rockie dog and an ice-cold Coors Light while you enjoy the game.   Atmosphere   5 Coors Field is a clean and classic ballpark that provides a summer atmosphere that is perfectly in line with Colorado. Attending a game adds to the long list of outdoor summer activities that Denver residents enjoy during the nice weather. The stadium offers nearly 360-degree seating with three decks up and down the first and third baselines. Center field also has a collection of seats at the second deck level, right above the nice greenery area just over the center field wall. This area contains a fountain, small waterfall, and a collection of pine trees, adding to the Rocky Mountain aesthetic. The in-game promotions every half inning are certainly enough to keep everyone entertained. The common ballpark games are played – kiss cam, follow the hats, and trivia – but they also offer raffles and promotions that can have fans walking away with anything from a Rockies hat to a brand-new car. If not attending a night game, sit on or near the third baseline to avoid the sun. Other than that it’s a great view from anywhere in the upper decks, as you can see the mountains in the background, and the left field scoreboard will be very easy to read as well.   Neighborhood   5 Coors Field is conveniently situated squarely in the downtown area, facing out towards the mountains and the suburbs. The venue is positioned near the intersection of I-25 and I-70 and is surrounded by various shops, businesses, and restaurants that are often buzzing whether there is a game or not. Tom’s is where most fans congregate before and after games – Tom’s is a multi-level sports bar and grill that offers an extensive menu and an even more extensive display of TVs. Other restaurants and bars line the third and first base sides of the stadium including The Original, The Cherry Cricket, and ViewHouse. As far as attractions in the area, Summit will often have live music during the evenings. There is also a National Ballpark Museum right across the street with a private collection of baseball memorabilia, that is worth checking out if your passion for baseball goes beyond the ballpark experience. For lodging options, there are plenty in the city of Denver including Rally Hotel, which will have 15% off sales with the use of a promo code for Rockies fans.   Fans   3 Typical attendance for a Rockies game sits around 60% to 80% of the stadium’s capacity; weekends will attract a bigger crowd, as will more popular visiting teams. Rockies fans get excited when their team does well, but opposing fans can sometimes overpower the home crowd when the visiting team has a large following, such as the Yankees , Dodgers , or Mets . Despite not having a historically successful franchise, Rockies fans still show up to games, participate in the wave, and are eager to see their squad succeed.   Access   5 With Coors Field sitting in the middle of downtown Denver, there is ample access to Uber and other forms of public transportation to the venue. The hotels within a 1 to 3-mile radius can also offer an enjoyable walk to the ballpark. Parking in a metro downtown area on gameday is as congested as it gets, and even though the city blocks off certain streets and provides designated pay-to-park lots, utilizing public transportation or walking to the stadium would be the most stress-free and cost effective. Within the stadium itself, the flow of traffic in the concourse can be crowded between innings, but none of the lines for tickets or food have waits longer than 3 to 5 minutes.   Return on Investment   4 Attending an MLB game is a high-level fan experience. Upper deck tickets at Coors Field will run in the $40 range, with lower deck seats closer to $90. You’ll be watching the highest level of baseball in the world at a unique ballpark that is designed for comfort, aesthetics, and scenery. The cost matches the environment and experience.   Extras   4 Coors Field is equipped with an LED light show when the Rockies hit a home run. The Silver Bullet Bar in right field offers a more luxury beverage experience with specialty cocktails, wine, and frozen drinks. There is a 360-seat long row of purple seats in the stadium’s second deck that indicates the mile-high mark in the stadium at 5,280 feet.   Final Thoughts Coors Field is one of the more aesthetic ballparks in the MLB due to the Rocky Mountain weather, scenery, and feel. Even if you’re not a huge baseball fan, a trip to Coors Field will fit in perfectly with your Denver vacation itinerary.

For Sandy Mangarella, teaching is a 24/7 labor of love and a mission to educate and spread smiles. Not surprisingly, the Union High School English teacher has won numerous awards and accolades over her 43-year career. Just last week, the Rotary Club of Union NJ honored her for her efforts. (TAPinto Union article on Sandy: Union Rotary Honors Two with Excellence in Education Award | Union, NJ News TAPinto | TAPinto ). Outside the classroom, Sandy is a devoted a Houston Astros fan. Sandy took a few moments away from inspiring young minds and grading to discuss the Astros, Bruce versus Bon Jovi, pizza and some other miscellaneous topics. STADIUM JOURNEY:  Teaching was never easy, but now phones make it that much more difficult. What's your phone policy?  SANDY MANGARELLA:  Our school district has a no-cell-phone policy in classrooms, which I generally support. However, as any good teacher knows, flexibility is key. In my screenwriting class, for example, streaming platforms like Netflix are blocked on school devices. So, when students need to analyze a film or TV show to compare it to their own screenplay drafts, I occasionally allow them to use their phones for that specific purpose. It’s always structured and intentional — never a free-for-all. The goal is to keep technology as a tool, not a distraction.    STADIUM JOURNEY:  How did you start following the Houston Astros? What's special about this franchise? SANDY MANGARELLA:  I started following the Astros when I moved to Houston in 1980 to be with my boyfriend —who later became my husband. We were both avid baseball fans, and it didn’t take long for me to fall in love with the team, the Astrodome, and later Minute Maid Park. I had grown up a diehard Mets fan in New Jersey — Rusty Staub was my childhood hero — so I shocked myself in 1986 when I found myself screaming at the TV for the Astros to maim   the Mets. That’s when I knew I had officially switched allegiances. We couldn't always afford to go to games, but when we could, we soaked in the atmosphere. Houston was all things Astro back then — Astroturf, Astroworld and a real sense of community around the team. STADIUM JOURNEY: What was it like to attend a game at the Dome? What did you love about it? Was it ventilated? SANDY MANGARELLA: I absolutely loved attending games at the Astrodome. Living in Houston felt like walking through a cloud most days — 99% humidity practically year-round. When I moved back to New Jersey, I actually had to start putting oil on my face because I never had to worry about dry skin or aging in Houston, LOL. The Dome was paradise in comparison. It was fully air-conditioned — after all, Houston might just be the most air-conditioned city in the country. The atmosphere inside was always comfortable, and the acoustics were fantastic. One of my favorite things was the scoreboard. It was something special, and when the team moved to a new stadium, it just wasn’t the same. I have lots of photos somewhere in my storage – sorry I don’t have any to share. The Astrodome also gave the world astroturf — an innovation in itself. And those old Astros uniforms? The bold orange, blue, and white were astronomical — literally. The Astros name and theme were inspired by the nearby space center where astronauts train, which made the whole experience feel bigger than baseball. Going to games there with my husband was pure joy. Those are memories I’ll never forget. I’m also glad the Dome still stands today, right next to the football stadium. And beyond baseball, I loved attending the annual Livestock Show and Rodeo at the Dome. It was a whole other kind of fun. So many great memories, all tied to one incredible place.    STADIUM JOURNEY:  Have you attended lots of games? What's your favorite Astros memory?  SANDY MANGARELLA:  We went to as many Astros games as we could afford, and each one felt special. One of my all-time favorite memories was at Minute Maid Park — though it’s gone through a few name changes since then — when I witnessed a grand slam home run. That had been a bucket-list moment for me as a fan, and I was absolutely ecstatic. Another standout memory was during my first year reading AP Literature exams for the College Board in Kansas City. The Astros were playing the Royals, and I couldn’t believe my luck. I rallied some fellow readers to come with me. We had a blast, and I got to share my Astros fandom with a whole new group.    STADIUM JOURNEY:  Advice. Advice. Advice. Someone has a weekend in Houston. What spots should they hit? SANDY MANGARELLA: There’s so much to do in Houston; it’s hard to know where to begin. For something really unique, visit the Orange Show — a whimsical folk-art monument built by a retired mailman obsessed with oranges. Nearby, you’ll find other creative landmarks like the Flower Man’s House and the Beer Can House, both unforgettable. In Montrose, you can shop for vintage clothes and quirky finds, or head downtown and explore the underground tunnel system —built to beat the Texas heat — and full of hidden gems you won’t see above ground. Houston's museum district is a must, especially the Museum of Natural Science with its stunning Butterfly Center, the incredible art museums, and the powerful Holocaust Museum. The Houston Zoo is another favorite of mine. And the food — don’t leave without indulging. Goode Company Seafood makes a flounder po’ boy with homemade sauce that I still dream about. Their barbecue is equally amazing — smoked brisket on freshly baked rolls. For more seafood, head to the Kemah Boardwalk, where you can eat fresh off the dock or dine inside the Aquarium restaurant. There’s one there and another downtown. If you’re up for a drive, go east to see alligators in the bayou, or head west to Brenham for Blue Bell Creamery, which has the best ice cream ever, and nearby Chappell Hill, which hosts charming festivals like the Bluebonnet and Scarecrow festivals. Houston is packed with surprises, culture, and flavor. You’ll never run out of things to do.    STADIUM JOURNEY:  Now that you're in Jersey, do you still get a chance to see the Astros play? Do you attend games for other baseball teams, or are you strictly Astros?  SANDY MANGARELLA:  I haven’t had the chance to see the Astros play since moving to New Jersey. I’m not particularly fond of going into New York City, so I don’t make it out to Yankees or Mets games. When I visit Houston, that’s when I reconnect with my ‘Stros. That’s where I feel most at home cheering them on. There's just something special about watching them in their city.    STADIUM JOURNEY:  Since you're in Jersey, who do you lean towards – The Boss or Jovi? Neither? SANDY MANGARELLA:  It’s hard to choose. When I was a freshman in college, a guy asked me to a concert — he had waited all night in line to get tickets for Bruce Springsteen. I had no idea who Springsteen was at the time, but we sat in the third row, and when he sang “Fourth of July, Asbury Park (Sandy),” I was completely swept away. I felt like he was singing just to me. Instant love.  At the same time, I have a soft spot for Bon Jovi. I did my student teaching in Sayreville while he was in high school — though I was teaching in the junior high — and one of my former students was actually friends with him. So, I have connections to both. That said, I do miss the days when artists just sang. Bruce has gotten a little too political for me lately. I’d rather not know my musical heroes’ political views — I just want the music.    STADIUM JOURNEY:  Which does Jersey do better — bagels, pizza, or ice cream?  SANDY MANGARELLA:  Bagels just aren’t what they used to be. They’ve gotten too doughy, and I’ve honestly lost my love for them. But pizza — that’s a different story. You can’t go wrong with Esposito’s in Matawan, especially their sesame seed crust. They’ve got another location down the shore, and both are worth the trip. As for ice cream, I’m a soft-serve fan through and through. When I lived in Morris Plains, Denville Creamery had the best homemade ice cream I’ve ever tasted. It’s still my gold standard.  STADIUM JOURNEY:  So you were quite a twirler back in the day. How did this come about? How did you get so good? Are you still twirling?   SANDY MANGARELLA:  I followed my best friend to twirling tryouts in high school. It turned out to be the hardest and best thing I ever did. There was a three-month clinic to learn how to twirl, and most of the girls already had experience. I had no idea what I was doing, but I was determined. My parents’ living room ceiling still bears the marks from all the times I tossed that baton into the air, and I left a few dents in the high school hallways too. When I found out I made the team, I did cartwheels through the school halls. I had beaten out girls who had experience. Not only did I make the team — I eventually became co-captain. I even won the school’s Tigger Award for being “bouncy, flouncy, fun fun fun fun fun!” Twirling was my world back then—from parades to halftime shows to competitions — and I loved every second of it.    STADIUM JOURNEY:   You have a special relationship with the Union High School basketball team. Please discuss. Do you attend lots of Union High School sporting events?  SANDY MANGARELLA:  I have a special relationship with my students, and that naturally extends to those involved in sports. I’ve been recognized by both the basketball team and the girls’ softball team —specific students have made it a point to acknowledge my support. They know I cheer them on, even if I’m not always in the stands. I’ve even made a few lighthearted “bets” with them. If they accomplish something big in their sport, I’ll reward them in class. Lots of smiles all around. That said, I don’t get to attend many games because my teaching load is intense. I usually teach five or six different classes and grade a mountain of essays. But they know my support is always there, and I celebrate their wins in my own way.    STADIUM JOURNEY:  You enjoy travelling. When you're on the road, what do you like to do?   SANDY MANGARELLA:  Last summer, my sister took me to France. I didn’t fall in love with Paris, surprisingly — but the countryside completely stole my heart. I think that’s one of the biggest changes in how I travel since COVID — I’m more drawn to quieter, more grounded places. As an Anglophile, I’ve explored all of Great Britain and Ireland, but Scotland is my favorite. There’s just something about the castles, the golf courses, and yes — the scotch — that speaks to me. I’ve been to Iceland in hopes of seeing the Aurora Borealis, no luck, sadly, and to Spain —because, well, it’s Spain. I also love being in Texas whenever I can. I can’t quite explain it, but it just feels right when I’m there. And next summer, my sister is planning a trip for us to South Korea. I’m a huge fan of K-beauty and K-dramas, so that will be a dream come true. I only wish my husband and I had gotten the chance to travel more together while he was still alive. But I carry him with me wherever I go.   Jon Hart is @manversusball

Photos by Gregory Koch, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.57 Finch Field 7003 Ball Park Rd. Thomasville, NC 27360 Thomasville HiToms website Finch Field website Year Opened: 1935 Capacity: 2,000 No Doubting Thomas Baseball has been played at Finch Field in Thomasville, North Carolina since 1937, when it was home to the Thomasville Chair Makers of what was then the North Carolina State League. It hosted affiliated minor league ball under many names over the years, before the High Point-Thomasville Hi-Toms (with a hyphen in the nickname) moved away in 1969. Baseball finally returned 30 years later, when the High Point-Thomasville HiToms (no hyphen in the nickname) joined the Coastal Plain League, a summer collegiate league in the southeast. In the intervening years, Finch Field underwent some renovations, as the grandstand burned to the ground in 1982 and was rebuilt, but the stadium still exists today much as it did then. The HiToms have produced several players who have gone on to play in the big leagues, including Todd Wellemeyer and Zach Gelof. Food & Beverage 4 There are two concession stands at Finch Field. One stand is located behind the seating bowl and sells hot dogs and nachos in addition to ice cream, popcorn, Snow-cones, candy, and peanuts. Soda and bottled water are also available at this stand. The prices are quite reasonable with nothing being more than a few dollars, but the selection is limited, and, other than the ice cream, which was rich and creamy, the food is not the best quality. There is a second stand in left field that serves much better burgers, fries, and chicken sandwiches. Prices here are a bit higher than the home plate stand, but a cheeseburger with fries will cost $10, or an extra 50 cents if you want the TomKat Burger with special sauce. This stand takes longer since everything is made to order, but there is a picnic area with tables and chairs you can watch the game from while you wait, or you can just stand along the fence. Still, we recommend ordering from this stand before the game starts if possible. Atmosphere 4 Finch Field is a historic, classic ballpark that is a throwback to the days of yore. There is still an old-fashioned, manual scoreboard in left-centerfield although it is no longer used. Instead, there is a small digital scoreboard to its left. The grandstand at Finch Field is located behind home plate and is partially covered by a slanted roof. The first few rows are chairbacks which are technically reserved, although this is not always enforced, while the remainder of the seats are bleachers that are general admission. The HiToms have several contests on the field in between innings, including classics such as the dizzy bat race as well as children racing down the foul line on hopping balls. The in-stadium host will call kids down to the HiToms dugout to come onto the field like he is the announcer on The Price is Right telling people to come on down because they are the next contestant. Neighborhood 3 The park itself is just off the business loop of Interstate 85 near where it meets North Carolina Route 68, US Route 70, and US Route 29. There is not much to do in the immediate vicinity of the ballpark, but if you head south on Route 68 a bit, you will find a part of town with several local businesses. Rosa Mae's Cafe serves homestyle comfort food, and there are several Mexican restaurants including Tortilleria El Tio. There isn't a lot going on in Thomasville, but you should find something to do. Fans 3 The HiToms will almost never sell out a home game, but they do draw a loyal group of fans from the Thomasville community. They partner with local schools to bring children to the game, and many of them keep coming back for more afterwards. Expect a couple hundred fans in attendance for a typical game, which won't fill even the small grandstand, but will bring some energy to the game on a warm summer night. Access 2 There are several roads to Finch Field, including the I-85 business loop, US 29, US 70, and NC 68. However, once you get near the ballpark, where to go is tricky. There is a sign for the entrance, but you then may need to make several more turns after that. Parking is in a gravel and grass lot, and part of it is within foul ball territory so be careful. Confusingly, there is a portion where you have to drive through a gate that looks like it may be the gate to the stadium. It is not, it is the gate to the parking lot, and you can drive through it to go park. The gates to the stadium are built into a brick facade and will be obvious, though there is a fancier gate in left field that bizarrely remains locked. The restrooms inside the stadium are behind home plate. They are sufficient for the crowds but the toilets had not been cleaned well when we visited, and had what appeared to be dead bugs on the inside of the bowl. Return on Investment 5 Tickets to HiToms games are $7 for general admission bleacher seating or $8 for chairbacks, although when we visited nobody was checking to make sure people were sitting in the appropriate seats so you could probably get away with buying the $7 seats and sitting in a chairback. Many fans appeared to be doing just that. Concessions are reasonable priced and parking is free. This makes a HiToms game an outstanding value. Extras 4 Volunteers roam the stands and the concourse selling tickets for a 50-50 raffle for the chance for fans to win a prize. There is a small team store behind home plate selling HiToms gear starting as low as $10. The picnic table seating in left field is worth an extra star here for providing a unique vantage point to watch a game. Look for the banners behind home plate honoring the HiToms' championships, both in the Coastal Plain League and in the days of affiliated ball. Final Thoughts Finch Field is a historic baseball stadium that is still going strong. The High Point-Thomasville HiToms manage to put on a great fan experience while still having that community feel. Baseball fans in North Carolina will definitely want to spend a summer night watching baseball at this fine old ballpark.

Photos by Ben Alkaly, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.29 ExtraMile Arena 1401 Bronco Ln Boise, ID 88725 Boise State Broncos website ExtraMile Arena website Year Opened: 1982 Capacity: 12,820 Going the ExtraMile to Deliver a Great Fan Experience Boise State has made its mark in college athletics as a football school, but a visit to ExtraMile Arena proves that basketball hardly plays second fiddle. In the Spud State’s Capitol, a high-energy hoops experience awaits Bronco fans. Opened in 1982 as the BSU Pavilion and sitting adjacent to the trademark blue turf of the university’s imposing Albertson Stadium , the arena saw a 15-year run as Taco Bell Arena end in 2019 when convenience store chain ExtraMile signed on as naming rights sponsor for $8.4M over 15 years. In addition to serving as home for the Bronco men’s basketball, women’s basketball, and women’s gymnastics teams, ExtraMile hosts concerts for national touring acts, plus BSU’s graduation ceremonies and those of local high schools. Food & Beverage 4 You can’t walk the two concourses (Parquet – first level and Mezzanine – second level) for too long without encountering a concession stand. Standard stadium fare dominates, but there are specialty options like BBQ, pizza, and Mexican, from outposts of local eateries. My $14 steak burrito from La Tapatia, prepared at a cart, was a bit bland, clearly catering to those who like their salsa mild. Most entrees throughout the arena are priced in the same range, with snacks hovering around $4-$7, including BSU-branded potato chips. The craft beer craze is alive and well in Boise, with selections like Kona Big Wave, Golden Horseshoe, and Westwater available, some on tap and others canned. Expect to pay $12-$15 for a cold one, with domestics plus wine and seltzer on the lower end of the spectrum. There is no hard alcohol at ExtraMile Arena. Atmosphere 4 Approaching the main entrance of ExtraMile Arena in its southeast corner, you know you’re headed for a well-staged college sports event. There’s a bright video marquee and an NBA feel to the venue. Bronco fans appeared to be an early-arriving crowd, walking and mingling on the concourses in a sea of blue branded gear, where mascot Buster is roaming and eager for photo ops. The dedicated student fan section is called the Corral, and in addition to seats behind the basket, students are enticed with free Domino’s pizza. Free Pizza for Students at ExtraMile Arena, Photo by Ben Alkaly, Stadium Journey Pregame intros involve swirling lights, flames shooting in the air, and deafening hip-hop to get the crowd energized. A cavernous, three-level arena means those removed from the action might not catch everything, so there are flat-screen TVs positioned throughout to provide close-ups, including on the underside of the third deck for those at the back of the second level. Neighborhood 3 Most of the pregame action is found southeast of ExtraMile and Albertsons Stadium along Broadway, with classic college sports bars like The End Zone and Suds Tavern interspersed with inexpensive eateries spanning the culinary gamut. Allow for a brisk 15 minute walk to reach the arena. About a mile north, across the Boise River in downtown is the Baque Block, with shops and eateries owned by the city’s sizeable community with roots in Spain’s Basque region. Expect hearty, meat-based fare. Fans 4 The halo effect from years of football success, plus a number of March Madness appearances under current head coach Leon Rice has cultivated a passionate Boise State fan base. As is often the case in cities without pro sports, this is “the big show in town,” attracting the current student body, alums, and local families alike. Boise State basketball fans are a loud and knowledgeable bunch, enthusiastically supporting players for strong plays. Access 3 Expect to get your steps in when attending a game at Extra Mile Arena. The lots adjacent the basketball and football venues, to the north of University Dr., are reserved for season ticket holders and donors. Casual fans are instructed to park in the school-owned lots and garages south of University, where attendants are on-hand to collect the $10 fee. I was able to find free street parking on Denver Ave., after carefully examining the posted restrictions and confirming with a BSU employee. I was grateful to return postgame and not find a ticket! Return on Investment 4 Like most venues, how close you sit determines the cost of admission. Upper mezzanine tickets can be had around $15, to premium courtside seats in the triple-digits. Tickets are readily available on third-party apps, which is where I purchased mine. I opted for a center court seat near at the top of level of the Parquet level for $28. Tickets to Boise State women’s basketball and gymnastics cost less, and the athletic department offers promos that can potentially allow you to cheer on these teams for free with the purchase of men’s tickets. Extras 1 ExtraMile Arena has hosted the opening rounds of the NCAA men’s basketball tournament nine times, and was the site of one of March Madness’ iconic moments. In 1995, UCLA’s Tyus Edney drove coast-to-coast  in 4.8 seconds for a buzzer-beating layup to defeat Missouri 74-73 in the second round, en route to the Bruins’ national championship run.

Photos by Richard Smith, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.29 Joe Cannon Stadium 7611 Ridge Chapel Rd Hanover, MD 21076 Maryland Monarchs website Joe Cannon Stadium website Year Opened: 1990 Capacity: 1,500 Arundel Mills Baseball The Maryland Collegiate Baseball League is a summer collegiate league with players from many colleges, but mostly from regional colleges and universities, such as Towson, Maryland, Penn State, UMBC, and Mount St Mary's. The Monarchs play at Joe Cannon Stadium in Arundel County, Maryland. Joe Cannon Stadium is also home to the Coppin State University baseball program. When Joe Cannon Stadium was opened in 1990, the area was not very developed. Since then, this area has been the center of rapid growth and development. The large Arundel Mills Mall and Maryland Live Casino are nearly across the street from the stadium. BWI Airport is also located nearby, and the sight of airplanes taking off is not uncommon. Food & Beverage 0 There are no food options available for a Monarchs baseball game. A concession stand exists at Joe Cannon Stadium, but is not used during Monarchs games.  Neither soda nor snack machines are located here. Atmosphere 2 The seating section sits pretty high off the field, which limits fan participation. And that is if there are fans at the game. The atmosphere is almost non-existent, although a PA announcer keeps you in the game with announcements and music played between players. The seats are metal bleachers with no backing. It may be worth it to go all the way to the top of the stands so that you will have a better view of your seat, but you will be a bit further from the action. Many of the fans do not even sit in the stands, but bring their chair to sit along the chain link fence along the foul lines. This may offer a bit more interesting view than in the main grandstand. The stadium did have a recent renovation that added an artificial turf field and other player amenities. Neighborhood 4 The stadium is located in the woods but is across from a thriving development. Arundel Mills Mall is very popular, so much so that parking can be difficult at times. The addition of the Maryland Live Casino adds to the popularity of the area. Luckily, the casino has added a large parking garage to alleviate some parking problems. Food options are varied. The closest options are within walking distance across the parking lots. Subway and The Greene Turtle are close and offer options for both carry-out and eat-in. The Greene Turtle has a diverse menu, offering more intriguing options, including everything from Raspberry Turkey Flatbread down to a more usual bar food menu. They also offer many happy hour foods and drink specials at the bar. There are so many other food options in the area, from standard fast food fare to upscale restaurants at the casino. There are a few hotels also in the area, with ALoft and Element located within walking distance of Joe Cannon Stadium. Fans 2 The fans at the stadium appear to be mostly family and friends. Access 3 Joe Cannon Stadium is near most of the large highways in the area, such as I-295, I-95, and Maryland Route 100. So, access is technically very good. The abundance of highways does not tell the whole story. The traffic around Arundel Mills Mall can be stifling. You can expect to sit through many lights just to make simple and small turns. Weekend games will be worse than weekday games. Plan your trips accordingly, as you may need to be patient for the most simple of rides. Parking at the stadium is plentiful and free. Return on Investment 4 Games are free to attend, and there are no other costs associated with the stadium, so the value for the fans is very good. Extras 1 The large water tower located beyond the left field wall is an interesting sight to see at a baseball game. It may not be the Green Monster or the Camden Yards Warehouse, but it gives fans at Joe Cannon Stadium an interesting view. Final Thoughts The stadium is an enjoyable place to watch a game, especially since it is free. You will not be wowed by the field, nor probably the talent level, but it can offer a good option away from the crowded shopping environment located nearby. A good option for many fans is to drop those of their party who wish to shop at the mall while others take in a game.

Photos by Gregory Koch, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.57 Truist Field 324 S Mint St Charlotte, NC 28202 Charlotte Knights website Truist Field website Year Opened: 2014 Capacity: 10,200 Baseball the Queen City Located in the heart of Uptown Charlotte, Truist Field is home to the Charlotte Knights, the Triple-A affiliate of the Chicago White Sox. The gorgeous ballpark opened in 2014 and offers sweeping views of the Charlotte skyline beyond the outfield fence. The ballpark is one of three major sporting venues in Uptown, including Bank of America Stadium, home of the Carolina Panthers , and the Spectrum Center, home of the Charlotte Hornets . Food & Beverage 5 Truist Field has some top notch concessions. In addition to the classics here such as burgers, hot dogs, and personal pizzas, you will find everything from barbecue sandwiches to pulled pork nachos to chicken and waffle sandwiches and much, much more. Even more unusual options include Italian beef sandwiches, fried PB&J, and empanadas. These options are scattered at concession stands and mobile carts throughout the ballpark, so we suggest doing a 360 degree walk around before deciding what to order. Keep in mind that Truist Field is a cashless facility, so only credit cards are accepted at the stands. Atmosphere 5 Truist Field is a gorgeous baseball stadium, and a Charlotte Knights game is a fun atmosphere from the moment you walk into the ballpark. The stadium has a 360 degree concourse, and the field is visible from everywhere on it except when it passes behind the home plate club and the batter's eye in centerfield. There are some group areas in the outfield, but all the seats in foul territory are chairbacks. No matter where you sit, you will be up close to the action. There are also some rails on the concourse where fans can set down their food and drink, stand, and watch the game. These are especially popular for early afternoon games where it can be very hot and only a small portion of the seating bowl will be in the shade,, so fans prefer to stand on the concourse under cover than sit in the brutal sun and heat. A large videoboard is located in left-centerfield, while a smaller digital scoreboard built into the right-centerfield fence shows the linescore. Before the game starts, the Knights will bring a young fan onto the field to be "knighted" by the team's mascot, Homer the Dragon. The team leans heavily into the dragon theme - there is a dragon statue beyond the left field fence that blows smoke after Knights home runs and victories. In addition to the traditional seventh inning stretch, the team plays "Sweet Caroline" during the middle of the sixth inning. At the line "Look at the night", the scoreboard will actually display the lyric as "Look at the knight" as a reference to the team's nickname. During the song, Homer will dance on the field with a second Dragon mascot, Caroline, who seems to only come out for this purpose. Neighborhood 5 Truist Field is located in the heart of Uptown Charlotte, what would be called downtown in most other cities. This is a fantastic area with many hotels, restaurants, and bars, most of which are within walking distance of the stadium. Here, you will find everything from diners to tacos to fine dining and everything in between. Uptown is the heart and soul of the city of Charlotte and you will find just about anything you want to eat or drink within the vicinity of Truist Field. Fans 4 The Charlotte Knights average about 7,000 fans per home game, which ranks them near the middle of the International League but towards the top of Minor League Baseball. Of course, how many will show up depends on the day. Saturday nights tend to draw the most, but afternoon games don't necessarily draw well due to the heat. if it is a fireworks night, you can expect a good crowd as well. The fans will cheer during big moments but most of the crowd here is pretty casual. Access 5 Numerous highways lead to Charlotte, but the final stretch to the ballpark may involve multiple rapid merges and lane changes due to the way the streets and highways are designed. Parking can be reserved in advance for the Mint Street garage, and this is your best bet as it costs under $15. Just scan the pass on your way into the garage. On your way in, you may pass by other lots offering parking for exorbitant prices, especially if there is an event going on at Bank of America Stadium that day, but the Mint Street Garage is both closer and cheaper. Note that despite the name, the gameday entrance to the garage is not on Mint Street but on Martin Luther King, Jr. Boulevard, directly across from the right field gate. You can also take the Blue Line light rail to Mint Street, although it only runs every 30 minutes. If there is another event at Bank of America Stadium before or after the game, things can be a bit chaotic as the two venues share the garage. However, workers do a good job separating the entering traffic from the leaving traffic, and police officers direct vehicles and pedestrians outside the garage to make sure everything flows smoothly. Once inside, the concourses are more than wide enough and the restrooms more than sufficient for the crowds. Return on Investment 4 Knights games are pretty expensive, with tickets starting at $23, and going up to above $30 for seats directly behind home plate. However, this is the highest level of minor league baseball, and the quality of play on the field as well as the quality of fan entertainment is as good as you will get in minor league baseball. Parking prices are not bad for a downtown location, considering it can cost five times as much to park in that same garage for events at Bank of America Stadium. Concessions are decently priced as well. Overall, a Charlotte Knights game is a good value for fans. Extras 4 Free programs are available as you come in, a rarity nowadays as so much has switched to digital. A second star for the beautiful views beyond the outfield fence of the Charlotte skyline. The dragon billowing smoke in the outfield after home runs is worthy of an extra star here. A fourth star for a wacky mascot race tradition. Every home game, King Meck, Queen Charlotte, and Jerry the Jester race around the warning track during the Royalty Race, a reference to Charlotte's nickname, the Queen City. They are subject to get into wacky hijinks like getting pelted with orange balls by the mascot. It is always fun and amusing to watch. Final Thoughts Truist Field is one of the finest fields in minor league baseball. With a 360 degree concourse, a multitude of seating areas, a fan favorite mascot, and more, a trip here is a must for any baseball fan in the Carolinas.

A packed group of kids attending a Schaumburg Boomers game, photo by Michael Rusignuolo. Scientists interested in such things trade arguments between the 1883 eruption at Krakatoa and the 1997 sub-oceanic bloop as the loudest noises ever recorded by man. I'd like to throw a third contender into the ring: The sound of any mascot giving away a t-shirt at a "School Day" event in a full ballpark. After a recent week of baseball travels during these events, I know that my hearing might never be the same. WHAT ARE SCHOOL DAYS? Variously named "School Days," "Education Days," or some improvisation on that theme, promotional events where teams offer blocks of discounted tickets to educational institutions in their area, usually in early- to mid-May at independent or low-minor league affiliated baseball. The events line up with the waning of the school year when field trips and other fun events are common.  Although the teams aren't getting full price for every butt in a seat, this is a win-win, as it helps fill the park at the start of the season (which begins later than MLB and other upper-level leagues), giving an early boost to their attendance numbers, as well as spinning the turnstiles for weekday games, which can otherwise often see poor tallies. Students wave their hands for a free t-shirt at a Gary Railcats game, photo by Michael Rusignuolo. WHAT DOES IT MEAN FOR YOU? Whether you're just looking to catch a late spring game, or you're on a whole trip collecting new ballparks, School Day events have some very important ramifications. Check the time. School Day events generally have absurd start times as early as 10 AM, though they usually start between 11 AM and noon. Unless you are a Beantown diehard on Patriot's Day, that's not when you'd normally expect to see a ballgame. You need to roll out of bed and get yourself directly to the park. You'd usually have all afternoon to do other things, but you'll need to push them back until after the game ends, usually around 1 or 2 PM. It also pays to have your hotel be as near as possible to the park to shorten the early commute. Check your seats. You are going to be watching a game in the hottest hours of the day. If you worship the sun god, this is your time to shine. Berm or outfield seats will let you catch all the rays you can soak. If you are more sun and heat-adverse, be sure to ask for a ticket in the shade. With the large blocks of tickets going to schools, it might be hard to get a seat in the few areas that will be in the shade for the entire game.  Busses line up outside the home of the Joliet Slammers, photo by Michael Rusignuolo. If the ticket seller says they can't get you one in the shade, ask if it is okay to move if one is available. The answer is almost invariably "yes," but it is polite to ask. Other options include hanging out at standing counters on the shaded promenade or finding barstools, tables, or other non-assigned seating in the shade with a view of the field. Check your ears. While I was slightly exaggerating above, these games can get loud , with thousands of screaming children, especially around kid-friendly events such as mascot appearances, giveaways, and on-field events featuring their classmates. Check your expectations. If you are traveling with kids of your own, while they may be able to make a ton of new friends during these games, they are nearly assured of being shut out of any on-field events, which are usually pre-filled with students from the school groups. And they definitely will be fighting for the attention of the mascot-- which can be a child's favorite part of a trip--as well as their turn in any play areas in the park, which will likely be at capacity. Kids enjoy the grass berm seating at the Gary RailCats game, photo by Michael Rusignuolo . And even though many parks provide special areas for a few groups to get their food, lines will be longer than expected at concessions and stores during the game. (Though alcohol will still be on sale if you want to start drinking before noon.) Grab your consumables and merch before the start of the game for the least problems. And don't get caught on the promenade when the school groups go to their seats for the first time. "Traffic jam" doesn't do it justice. Also, parking may be more of a chore than normal, as some ballparks use nearby municipal lots as their main parking areas, but they may not be free during the day, as opposed to after-hours when the games usually start. Give yourself some extra time for parking. All that said, they can be fun experiences. One park employee said, "It is nice to see the stadium filled up." These are the best-attended weekday games for the team or any game of the year. You get a lively environment to watch a game with kids having fun, even if they aren't particularly paying attention to the action on the field.

Photos by Gregory Koch, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.43 Atrium Health Ballpark 1 Cannon Baller Way Kannapolis, NC 28083 Kannapolis Cannon Ballers website Atrium Health Ballpark website Year Opened: 2021 Capacity: 4,930 A New Stadium For Kannapolis Atrium Health Ballpark in Kannapolis, North Carolina is home to the Kannapolis Cannon Ballers, the Carolina League affiliate of the Chicago White Sox. The Kannapolis franchise was known as the Intimidators from 2001 to 2019, in reference to Kannapolis native Dale Earnhardt's nickname. However, legal issues with Earnhardt's widow over the rights to the name forced the team to rebrand in 2021. At the same time, the franchise, now known as the Cannon Ballers, moved into their gorgeous new downtown stadium after spending the prior years at the aging Intimidators Stadium. The Cannon Ballers nickname reflects Kannapolis's racing history, with the team logo depicting a stuntman with a mustache similar to Earnhardt's. Food & Beverage 5 Kannapolis offers a wide range of concessions options that should satisfy any fan. You have all the classic options such as hot dogs, sausages, chicken tenders, and burgers, but also more unique options, not to mention unique versions of more traditional foods. The Carolina smash burger in left field is topped with American cheese, chili, and slaw. Carolina barbecue is available at several stands and mobile carts, and there is a smokehouse stand in centerfield. For those with a sweet tooth, you can get not only ice cream but funnel cakes and mini-donuts, each of which have many toppings to choose from. There is also a grab and go stand behind home plate that just sells drinks and basic snacks, but will involve less waiting time than the other stands - perfect for the fans who just want to grab something small and don't want to wait on line. You should be in and out in under a minute. The Cannon Ballers also offer special items during certain games. Select Sundays are Southside Sundays, where they will serve Chicago-themed concessions such as Chicago dogs in reference to the team's affiliation with the Chicago White Sox. The night before we visited was Salute to Cheerwine Night, where the donut stand served Cheerwine glazed donuts. Speaking of Cheerwine, it is a North Carolina-made cherry flavored soda,, and it is available at the concession stands along with more traditional soda offerings and bottled water. Alcohol is also available to those of age. Prices at the concession stands are quite reasonable, and you can get additional value at the main stands by choosing a basket combo, which comes with fries and a drink at a discounted price. Atmosphere 4 Atrium Health Ballpark contains a 360-degree concourse that surrounds the entire field. There is an open plaza in the right field corner with concessions and a team store. You should be able to see the field from most of the concourse, except when it goes behind the batter's eye in centerfield. There is a berm in left field where fans can bring blankets and sit (but cannot bring their own chairs) and some group areas with tables, but the other seats are typical chairbacks. No matter where you sit, you will have a great view of the action as this is a small, intimate stadium. There is a large scoreboard located in left-centerfield and the linescore will be displayed on the right field fence as well in a digital graphic that ironically resembles the manual scoreboard at Wrigley Field, the home of the White Sox' cross town rival, the Chicago Cubs. The Cannon Ballers have a mascot named Boomer who resembles the stuntman in the team logo. He roams the stands and the concourse before and during games, interacting with fans. The team has many contests on the field and even some in the stands. One fan favorite involves the third base and first base sides attempting to pass giant oversized pizza boxes down to the emcee located behind home plate. The Cannon Ballers' mascot, Boomer Neighborhood 4 Although Kannapolis is not the largest city, Atrium Health Ballpark is right in the heart of the social district. Old Armor Beer Company, Sabor Latin Street Grill, the Corner Crust Pizza, and many more places are all located within a few blocks of the stadium. If the Cannon Ballers strike out seven opposing batters during the game, fans can take their ticket to Corner Crust for $5 off a giant 28-inch pizza. NASCAR fans may also want to check out the Dale Earnhardt tribute plaza at the corner of Cannon Baller Way and Main Street just east of the ballpark. Fans 4 The Cannon Ballers draw about 3,000 fans a game, which is slightly above average for the Carolina League. The fans in attendance can get loud at times and are deeply familiar with the team. It is not uncommon to hear them commenting in great detail as to what is going on on the field, or even what the team did in a previous game and what the manager is doing right or wrong. This is a relatively small ballpark that is just the right size for the crowds the team draws. Access 4 Kannapolis is easily accessible via several exits off I-85. There is a small $5 lot right next to the ballpark, but there is also ample free parking on the street and in municipal lots, much of it within a block of the ballpark, so we suggest parking in one of them instead. Not all of the lots are clearly signed. They are signed as municipal lots, but the signs do not always specifically say they are for gameday parking. Still, fans can park in any municipal lot. Some private lots are for customers of local businesses only, and signage clearly forbids event parking. There is a map on the city's website, though the situation is subject to change. The Kannapolis train station is also located a couple blocks away and is served four times a day in each direction by the Piedmont , which runs from Charlotte to Raleigh. The Carolinian , which runs all the way from Charlotte to New York City via Washington, D.C, also serves the station once daily in each direction. Once inside, the concourse is more than wide enough for the fans, and there are several large, clean sets of restrooms. Return on Investment 5 Tickets start at just $15 for seats further up the foul line, and other than club seats, the most expensive tickets behind home plate are just $22.50. Concessions are quite affordable, especially if you buy a combo, and parking is free if you know where to go. There are also ticket packages for select home games that can enhance your value even more, so check the Cannon Ballers' website for more details. Extras 5 Atrium Health Ballpark has not one but two team stores, a large one in the right field corner by the ticket office and a smaller one down the first base line closer to home plate. A second star for the 360 degree concourse and the many vantage points and areas from which to watch the game. There is a kids' play area in left field that earns a third star here. The stadium is open to the public on non-gamedays, and kids can even play in the play area. A fifth and final star for the plaques on the ground on the right field plaza honoring Kannapolis baseball history. Final Thoughts Atrium Health Ballpark is one of the finest new ballparks in Minor League Baseball. The experience at a Kannapolis Cannon Ballers game is top-notch and baseball fans in the Carolinas will definitely want to make the trip here to see a game.

Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.86 Honda Center 2695 E Katella Ave Anaheim, CA 92806 Anaheim Ducks website Honda Center website Year Opened: 1993 Capacity: 17,174 Don’t Call Them Mighty Back in the 1990s Disney put out a popular movie franchise about a youth hockey team called “The Mighty Ducks.” At about the same time the National Hockey League was looking to expand into new markets. Looking to tap into an underserved market, the league awarded Disney a franchise to be placed in Anaheim, CA. Disney named their new team “The Mighty Ducks” after their movies. Despite some apprehension over the movie tie-in, the team was successful both on and off the ice, setting a record (at the time) for most wins by a team in their first year, and rocketing to the top of the NHL in terms of merchandise sales. Now in their third decade of operation, the Ducks (they dropped the “Mighty” from their nickname when Disney sold the team in 2006) have experienced a great deal of success, capturing 14 playoff berths, six division titles, two conference titles and a Stanley Cup Championship in 2007. Seven players who have played for the Ducks have been inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame. Food & Beverage 4 There is a good selection of concessions at the Honda Center. With many stands located throughout both concourses, the menu hits all the expected notes. For visiting fans looking for something beyond the typical arena fare, Outlaws Smokehouse sells their signature brisket and pulled pork sandwiches as well as smoked BBQ ribs with corn and slaw. Of course, this is southern California, so fans can find tacos and burritos at Wahoo’s Fish Tacos. Check out the stands selling snack items such as gourmet cupcakes, homemade cookies and candy apples. A variety of healthier choices and gluten-free options are available as well. A complete map of the Honda Center’s concessions can be found here. 7-Up/RC Cola provides the beverages at the Honda Center. Go for the Ducks souvenir cup, which allows unlimited refills throughout the game. Fans looking for adult beverages will be pleased to find a wide variety of brews, both from national brands as well as local craft brewery Golden Road. Wine and specialty cocktails are sold throughout the arena. Be aware that you will be paying premium prices for food at the Honda Center. Also, be ready for long, slow-moving lines at many of the concession stands. The air conditioning, cranked up to the maximum in this building, blows directly down on fans in line while waiting for their food. Perhaps the facility is trying to boost sales of their hot items. Atmosphere 4 Hockey fans are different in California. They don’t seem as involved in the game as your typical northeast or Canadian fan. The Ducks do attract good crowds to the Honda Center and many of them are as die-hard as they come, but the building lacked a certain energy during Stadium Journey’s visit. Perhaps the team’s slide towards the bottom of the conference standings has affected the atmosphere here. Veteran fans will find much that is familiar in the game day presentation here, from the video board hung at center ice that provides replays, game stats and graphics. There is plenty of noise to fill up the building during play stoppages and the occasional t-shirt toss and social media shout out to keep the casual fans involved. The team’s mascot, Wild Wing, was nowhere to be found during Stadium Journey’s visit. Neighborhood 4 Fans spoiled by downtown arenas with plenty of things to do a short walk from their favorite rink may not think too highly of the Honda Center’s location right off the highway surrounded by acres of parking lots. There are a few restaurants nearby within a short walk, including J.T. Schmid’s Restaurant and Brewery and the Lazy Dog Restaurant and Bar. Angel Stadium is located just a half mile up Douglass Road. Still, this is not a neighborhood that would ordinarily rate a high score. Then why an above average score for neighborhood? Because Disneyland is only about three miles away! Local attractions don’t get much bigger than this. While it may not be everyone’s cup of tea, it will undoubtedly be on the agenda for many visitors to the area, regardless of age. Visiting fans looking for places to stay while in Anaheim will find no shortage of options in the area. Fans 4 The Ducks enjoyed a good stretch at or near the top of the NHL during the ‘00s. Now that the team is in a rebuilding mode, the Honda Center has seen a decline in attendance. Thus far in the 2019-20 season the Ducks are averaging just short of 16,000 fans per game, ranking them 26th in the league. Ducks fans tend to be a bit more laid-back than some of their counterparts around the NHL. Visiting fans can feel comfortable sporting their team colors and bringing the entire family. Access 3 You would think that the Honda Center, with its location right off of Route 57 (the Orange Freeway) and acres of parking lots surrounding the facility, would rate a higher than average score. Unfortunately, the legendary southern California traffic drags this score down to average. Be sure to give yourself extra time to arrive in Anaheim. For fans using alternate means of transportation, the Anaheim Regional Transportation Intermodal Center , located across the street from the Honda Center, houses public transportation options from throughout Orange County. Once you arrive at the Honda Center, staff do a nice job of getting you off the road and into one of the many parking lots within walking distance of the arena. The facility does a security screening as you enter the building, and they do practice a clear bag policy. Be sure to check out the Honda Center’s security policies before your trip. During Stadium Journey’s visit, the security screening went as far as to not allow this writer to enter the building with a small point and shoot-style camera because it had “video capabilities.” Never mind that my phone probably takes better video than this camera and the camera was allowed under their stated policy, staff could not be persuaded. Fans enter the Honda Center into a bright, clean concourse with plenty of concession stands and restrooms on both sides. Getting around can be an issue in spots, but traffic generally flows well. Long lines form during intermission, so plan your trips accordingly. There are no escalators to the upper level, leaving fans to huff it up the stairs or wait for the occasional elevator. All seats are padded folding stadium seats which provide decent leg room and comfort, even for larger fans. Sight lines are excellent from all seats, even up near the top of the upper deck. Be warned that the Honda Center is kept VERY cold during Ducks games. Remember that if you are dressed for the warm southern California weather, you will need an extra layer or two while inside. Return on Investment 4 Like many other arenas in the National Hockey League, going to a game at the Honda Center can cost you a few dollars. Affordable tickets can be found, however, for Ducks games. Tickets start as low as $20 for upper deck seating, and top off at about $100 in the lower deck. Games against local rivals the Kings and Sharks are generally more expensive, as are weekend tilts. Bargains can be found on the secondary market, but the high cost of parking ($25) and food drive up the overall cost. Extras 4 An extra point is awarded for the enormous pro shop with plenty of merchandise tie-ins with the Mighty Ducks movie franchise. No matter if you want your shirt with the name Kariya or Selanne, Goldberg or Conway on the back, you’ll find it here. An extra point is awarded for the banners hanging from the Honda Center rafters. The retired numbers for Ducks greats Paul Kariya (#9), Teemu Selanne (#8) and Scott Neidermayer (#27) hang alongside Division, Conference and the team’s lone Stanley Cup banner, won in 2007. Free programs are available to all fans at Ducks games. A final extra point is awarded for the southern California touches throughout the facility. In addition to banners and photos commemorating highlights of Anaheim’s hockey history, fans may notice surfboards, beach scenes and skateboards decorating the walls. Final Thoughts While hockey may not be the first thing on your mind as you wander around southern California during a warm winter day, a trip to the Honda Center provides a mighty good experience for any fan, whether you are coming from the frigid north or not. Follow Paul Baker’s stadium journeys on Twitter  and Instagram  @PuckmanRI.

Photos by Gregory Koch and David Welch, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.71 L.P. Frans Stadium 2500 Clement Blvd NW Hickory, NC 28601 Hickory Crawdads website L.P Frans Stadium website Year Opened: 1993 Capacity: 5,062 Hickory, Dickory, Dock, the Crawdads Really Rock Minor League Baseball in Hickory, North Carolina has a long and storied history going back to 1936. However, after 1960, the city did not have a baseball team for over 30 years, until the Hickory Crawdads came to town in 1993. Named for a local crustacean, the team plays their home games at L.P. Frans Stadium, named for a local Pepsi bottler whose daughters helped fund the construction of the stadium. From 1993 to 2024, the Crawdads played in the South Atlantic League, moving from Low-A to High-A when the league changed levels as part of the restructuring in 2020. However, in 2025, when the Rangers' Low-A affiliate, the Down East Wood Ducks, moved to Spartanburg, South Carolina, the Rangers elected to move the new Spartanburg team up to High-A with its new stadium, and move Hickory down to Low-A. Beginning in 2025, the Crawdads compete in the Carolina League. Food & Beverage 4 Concessions at L.P. Fans Stadium are above average, packing as much as they can into a small stadium. All the usual classics are here, including hot dogs, burgers, chicken tenders, and personal pizzas (from Domino's.) Although Pepsi products are sold here, the fresh squeezed lemonade is a fan favorite and is better than anything you might get in a bottle. Local North Carolina favorite Cheerwine is also available in bottles at select stands. This is something we would like to see more often at ballparks in North Carolina to represent the local soda brand. Note that L.P. Frans Stadium is a cashless facility, so the stands only take credit cards. If you have cash, you can exchange it for Crawdads Cash at fan services and pay with that. Atmosphere 4 LP. Frans Stadium is a fine looking ballpark with a gorgeous brick exterior. Fans enter through a gate behind home plate, and the concourse runs from one end of the seating bowl to the other. Unfortunately, most of it does not have a view of the field. Additionally, while much of the seating bowl will be in the shade for late afternoon games, the concourse itself will be in brutal sunlight. It can be quite annoying to walk out onto it on your way to the restroom or concessions after sitting in the shade for some time. All seats at the stadium are chairbacks with an excellent view of the action, albeit through a net. There is a large scoreboard in right-centerfield which also shows player stats. The Crawdads have a myriad of promotions on and off the field, which often relate to each other. For instance, when Stadium Journey visited, the Crawdads were playing as their alternate identity, the Goat Karts, so several of the promotions were goat-themed, including baby goats frolicking in a pen outside the ballpark, and a contest where three (human) kids had to do the best goat impressions that they could. The Crawdads have a mascot named Conrad, who rather appropriately is a crawdad. Neighborhood 2 The Crawdads play in Hickory, North Carolina, in the eastern foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. L.P. Frans Stadium is located in between the local airport and a Pepsi bottling plant, so there is not much in the immediate vicinity, but if you head back to Route 321, which you would be taking to get in, you can find a few, mostly chain options. Still, Hickory is one of the smallest, most remote markets in minor league baseball, so there is very little going on here. Fans 3 Hickory has a small but loyal fan base. Although they only draw a couple thousand fans a game, those who do show up come early and stay for the whole game. Many of them are season ticket holders or at least come to a lot of games a season. A Crawdads game is a community experience for the fans, something which sadly seems to be lost across most of affiliated minor league baseball nowadays as the game becomes more corporatized. Access 3 Hickory is located at the intersection of I-40 and US Route 321. Route 321 is an expressway to the south of Hickory until you get to the Gastonia area about an hour to the south, but if coming from the north, it will involve steep mountain grades across the Blue Ridge and heavy traffic. There is a large parking lot adjacent to the stadium, with an overflow lot next to that which necessitates taking a flight of stairs down to the closer lot. Parking costs $5, and only credit cards are accepted. Once inside, the concourse is wide and restrooms are sufficient. Return on Investment 5 Crawdads tickets start at just $12 with the most expensive seats being just $14. We recommend getting seats in the 200 sections behind home plate for $13, as these offer the best view while still being in the shade the vast majority of the time, except the rare morning start. Parking is just $5, and concessions are affordable as well. Overall, a Crawdads game is an outstanding value, but bear in mind this is a cashless facility. Extras 5 Look for the statues of a pitcher, catcher, and batter outside the stadium, always a popular photo op. A second star for the kids' play area on the third base concourse, featuring a merry-go-round, bouncy castle, and more. Scorecards are available at the fan services table, a rarity nowadays as keeping score is a lost art. If your scorecard has a certain player's signature on it, you can win a prize. The team store behind home plate sells an extensive selection of Crawdads gear, including their alternate identities, the Hickory Goat Karts, the Hickory Dickory Docks, and the Llamas de Hickory. The restrooms are cleverly labeled Crawdudes and Crawdettes, though they are also labeled conventionally in case you can't figure out which one is which. The Merry-go-Round at the kids' play area. Photo by David Welch circa 2021. Final Thoughts A Hickory Crawdads game may be small town baseball in a remote location, but it is still a worthwhile experience. L.P. Frans Stadium is gorgeous architecturally, and the Crawdads do a good job with promotions and fan engagement. It is disappointing they do not draw bigger crowds, but given its location, there may be little they can do about that.

Photos by Terry McCutchen, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.43 Riders Field 7300 Rough Riders Trail Frisco, TX 75034 Frisco College Baseball Classic website Riders Field website Year Opened: 2003 Capacity: 10,216 The Riders of Frisco Frisco, Texas is a booming suburb of the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex in north Texas. As home to the world headquarters of the Dallas Cowboys , Major League Soccer’s FC Dallas , Dude Perfect’s New Theme Park, and the PGA Tour’s new corporate facility, as well as many museums and numerous shopping options, Frisco has become a destination city, especially for sports enthusiasts. The Frisco Classic, managed by PEAK Events, is a pre-season NCAA Division I baseball tournament featuring top collegiate teams from around the country. The tournament began in 2017 and was the first of 4 similar tournaments hosted by PEAK Management. The teams typically consist of SEC, Big 12, Big 10 and ACC members, with quality regional Group of 5 teams invited as well. Many teams who have played in Frisco have gone on to experience post-season success in super regionals, as well as qualify for the College World Series. Being held in the Double A facility of the Frisco RoughRiders , the games have a big time feel even though they are early in the non-conference schedule. Schools are treated to a well-run event played on a top-notch playing surface in front of large crowds, usually in good weather; many coaches have stated this is an early peek at the requirements to be successful if their teams qualify for post-season play.   Food & Beverage   4 There are 16 unique food and beverage vendors, each serving different menu options. Each individual concession stand offers different items and is named in such a manner that the flavor profile of the food is obvious. For example, El Rincon and Rojo’s serves Mexican-inspired dishes, Coop and Kennel and Frank’s serve hot dogs and chicken dishes, and The Sweet Spot serves ice cream dishes. There are also three separate bar areas where mixed drinks are offered in addition to beer. All of these areas are enclosed, with air conditioning and TVs showing live action of the game. During most of the 2025 tournament, some of the specialty vendors were closed for games with smaller crowds, namely Frisco Philly’s and Donato’s Pizza. All the concessions were open for the Saturday night game between LSU  and Nebraska , however, which drew a stadium record crowd of 11,003.   Atmosphere   5 With a seating capacity of a little over 10,000, the atmosphere is fully dependent on the schools playing, which is part of the reason that organizers attempt to schedule highly ranked teams from Power 4 conferences, most notably the SEC and Big 12, plus a regional Group of 5 team that will provide a solid fan base. The 2025 version of the Classic included LSU , Nebraska , Kansas State , and Sam Houston State University , the latter from Huntsville, Texas. Nebraska fans are famous for following the Cornhuskers nationwide, while Kansas State and Sam Houston State both have fairly large alumni numbers in the DFW metroplex. The fanbase that impacted the atmosphere the most, however, was the purple and gold clad faithful of the LSU Tigers – they came out in record numbers and created the feeling that these games were actually in Alex Box Stadium (the Huskers home up north) when their favored 9 took the field. On Saturday night, in fact, the record crowd was so large and rowdy that it reportedly consumed all the stadium's alcohol supply, requiring organizers to have more beer delivered for Sunday’s games.   Neighborhood   4 Rider Field is located in Frisco, Texas, a suburb of the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex. It’s nestled in a bustling shopping district and destination mecca near the intersection of the Dallas North Tollway and State Highway 121. There are plenty of hotels to choose from within walking distance of the ballpark including the Embassy Suites-Frisco (which is attached to the ballpark), Hilton Garden Inn-Frisco, Hyatt House Dallas-Frisco, and Tru by Hilton Inn-Frisco, among others. In fact, the accommodations within a few minutes’ drive to the ballpark include nearly all price points and amenity levels. When looking for dining options outside the facility, the choices within a short drive are virtually endless. One can easily walk to Wild Pitch Sports Bar and Grill, Perry’s Steakhouse, Norma’s Cafe, Rodeo Goat, or Gloria’s Cantina among others.   Fans   5 Attendance at the tournament is dependent on multiple factors, mainly the teams involved and the weather. The odds of playable weather conditions in late February in North Texas are high, but periodically rain or cold temperatures will dampen fan desire to attend the event. In the brief history of the event, attendance has averaged around 7,000 per day. The tournament organizers attempt to select major college teams, ideally those with solid local fan bases and quality baseball programs, which helps to produce large crowds for the tournament. Teams from northern areas are looking for southern games early in the season, so their participation is solid, while regional regulars such as Texas A&M , Oklahoma State , and Arizona  have used the classic as early season road tests to gauge where their teams rank in relation to the rest of the nation. The larger schools will have fans who travel to Frisco to attend the tournament, plus there are always numerous alumni of these institutions who call the DFW area home, who take advantage of the opportunity to see their teams in action so close to home.   Access   5 Located just off the intersection of Dallas North Tollway and State Highway 121 and less than 30 miles from both Dallas Love Field and Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW) International Airport, Rider Field is easily accessible no matter which airline is chosen by out-of-town travelers. Other than normal traffic in a major city, traffic flow around the ballpark is smooth and clearly marked. With signage posted beginning over a mile from the venue, it’s not difficult to get to the designated parking areas from multiple points of entry. The main parking lot sits across Rough Riders Trail from the south end of the stadium, while the main gate and ticket windows are at the corner of Rough Riders Trail and Diamond Drive.   Return on Investment   3 A single day at Rider Field for the Frisco Classic provides a full day of high-level collegiate baseball without breaking the bank. Tickets can be purchased for each day or as a tournament pass; a day pass is good for 2 top-level games and costs $20, while the tournament pass price begins at $50. Parking prices are $15 per day, but the facility is within walking distance from multiple hotels in the area, including most of those listed in the Neighborhood section above. High concession prices make the event a little less feasible cost-wise as well, but not outrageously so. Concession prices are slightly higher than most college games with costs similar to those you would expect to pay at Minor League Double-A and Triple-A games. For example, a souvenir soda costs $9, bottled water $5, and a 16-ounce beer $9.50. Hot dog baskets are $11, burgers cost $15, and most other specialty food items will require between $16 and $20. Don’t forget your debit/credit card though, as Frisco is cashless and only accepts digital or card payments.   Extras   5 Between inning games and contests for prizes are prevalent. Since the tournament is a month before the Frisco RoughRiders begin their season, the tournament is a dress rehearsal for the in-game staff to work on all of their sponsored games and activities, which is a win for the crowd since it gives many a chance to win prizes, as well as makes breaks in play move quickly. The tournament-winning team usually celebrates by jumping into the lazy river; this unique victory celebration creates a memory and provides photo opportunities not available in most settings. The staff is also extremely friendly and helpful. The facility has all its employees on the clock and in training for the upcoming season during the Classic, plus as a showcase presentation for PEAK events, there are PEAK personnel spread throughout the ballpark for assistance. Souvenirs can be acquired for the tournament's participating teams as well as for the Frisco RoughRiders. The Riders store is open for all games, thus allowing baseball memorabilia collectors the opportunity to procure items they desire. Concessions can be purchased using Stadium Drop – fans are able to scan a QR code, order and pay digitally, and have food delivered to their seats. This is an extremely convenient option. I personally didn’t utilize this option, but can see how the convenience is worth any extra expense or time required for the wait.   Final Thoughts NCAA Division I baseball has grown in popularity and become a major entertainment option within the past several years. With the NIL era in full force and MLB cutting their draft to only 20 rounds, several top-tier athletes have chosen to play college ball instead of signing professional contracts after high school. The Frisco Classic provides a perfect, early season opportunity to see some top-level players and highly ranked teams compete before the grind of conference schedules begins. I would suggest making plans to attend the entire tournament in order to see all four teams play one another; this will also allow you to witness most of the lineups in action. Planning ahead with hotel reservations and travel can assist in budgeting. Also, if you are able to get accommodations within walking distance of the field, you will not only save on parking but also be able to take a short break between games if you want.

Photos by David Welch, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.86 Covenant Health Park 500 East Jackson Boulevard Knoxville, TN 37915 Knoxville Smokies website Covenant Health Park website Year Opened: 2025 Capacity: 6,355 “It’s Baseball Time in Knoxville” Professional baseball has deep roots in Knoxville, dating back to 1897 with the Knoxville Indians of the Southeastern League. That league didn’t last, but pro ball briefly returned in 1904. A more stable run began in 1909 with the Knoxville Appalachians, followed by the Reds in 1914. After a short hiatus, baseball once again returned in 1921 with the Knoxville Pioneers, who soon adopted the name Smokies, a nod to the nearby Great Smoky Mountains. Knoxville’s first affiliation was with the Boston Bees ( Braves ) in 1936. In 1953, Knoxville Municipal Stadium opened just east of downtown. It was renamed a year later for Bill Meyer, a Knoxville native and former Pirates  manager. The stadium became the heart of pro baseball in the city for nearly 50 years, until it closed in 1999 and was demolished in 2003. Though the stadium structure is gone, the field is still in use by Pellissippi State College. Knoxville joined the newly formed Southern League in 1963, elevating the level of play and giving the Smokies a lasting place in Double-A baseball.  Over the years, Knoxville has partnered with more than one-third of the MLB franchises, the longest running of which has been with the Chicago Cubs , beginning in 2007. In 2000 the Smokies moved to Kodak, 20 miles east, leaving Knoxville without professional baseball. That changed in 2025, when the Smokies returned to the city with the opening of Covenant Health Park. The new stadium marks not just a homecoming, but a revival of Knoxville’s long-standing history in minor league baseball.   Food & Beverage   5 Food and drink options are plentiful throughout Covenant Health Park. Forks on First specializes in ballpark staples like burgers, hot dogs, and chicken tenders. Burger options include a classic, a veggie, and the Smoky Mountain Burger, featuring bacon, pimento cheese, crispy onions, and BBQ sauce. Coop 865 focuses on chicken dishes such as chicken and waffles, chicken mac & cheese, and a Tennessee favorite, the hot chicken sandwich.  Knox Smoque serves pulled pork, beef brisket, and mac & cheese, with sides like fried pickles and house-made kettle chips. Ballpark Bites caters to fried food fans with mozzarella sticks and “Rocky Tots”, namely tater tots topped with bacon, queso, ranch drizzle, and green onions. Finally, BarleyMe offers fresh pizza options. In addition to the above, carts scattered around the concourse sell everything from tacos and cheesesteaks to specialty hot dogs. To ease congestion, self-service drink refill stations are also available – an underrated but effective solution for keeping lines moving. For dessert, head to Sweets along the third baseline; this stand offers over 80 sno-cone flavors, ice cream milkshakes, and cinnamon-sugar churros. Also, a grab-and-go market in the left field corner offers convenience store-style snacks and drinks. Most notable, however, is the impressive selection of local craft beers; breweries featured include Knoxville’s Alliance Brewing Co., Schulz Braü, Ebony & Ivory Brewing, Gatlinburg Brewing Co, and Uxl Beer Co. (known for its popular PB+J Mix Tape), as well as Iron Forge Brewing Co. from Sevierville (which brews the Smokies-branded Light Lager). In total, fans can choose from about 50 beer options representing nearly 20 breweries. The selection also includes canned cocktails, seltzers, and wine. There are also two full-service bars in the stadium – behind home plate The Backstop is a full-service bar offering a wide range of mixed drinks. For a livelier social scene, however, the Modelo Watering Hole in right field is a popular hangout.   Atmosphere   4 In line with modern stadium design trends, Covenant Health Park lacks a traditional grand entry gate. Instead, fans enter at the corner of Patton Street and East Jackson Avenue, ascending a multi-tiered stairway painted with the word “Knoxville”. While the stairs may appear disjointed at first glance, a view from above reveals the full artistic design. The concourse resembles a scenic walking path more than a standard corridor, highlighted by a steel pedestrian bridge in center field that crosses over First Creek. The creek, which also runs behind former Bill Myers Stadium, one of the homes of the early Knoxville Smokies, is an unintentional link to the city’s baseball history. Traditional seating runs roughly halfway down each line and to the foul poles with what are called picnic areas, but are probably more akin to group social seating areas with high top tables. Along with these seating areas, other social seating areas include concourse suites, and four-seat half-moon tables that increase the social part of the game much more than trying to talk down the row to others in your group. Drink rails are also popular with fans who do not want to be confined to a seat. Other than a section in right field, however, there is very little outfield seating. The underside of the grandstand canopy is finished with yellow pine, adding a small but beautiful touch to the aesthetics of the stadium. In what has become the norm for stadium design, social areas have been implemented throughout Covenant Health Park, including the aforementioned Modelo Watering Hole. This bar has a dozen different beers on tap, ten different spirits, and a selection of wines. The area is also backed by lounge couches, corn hole, and a ping-pong table. The voice of public address announcer George Yardley is a throwback to a classic stadium feel; Yardley’s intentional cadence and southern drawl really bring out the charm of the region. One of the stadium’s most striking visual features is the massive scoreboard shaped like the state of Tennessee – it is heralded as the largest scoreboard in minor league baseball. In addition to the line score and ball-strike count, it also displays real-time player stats and pitch speeds.   Neighborhood   4 The area directly around Covenant Health Park is still a work in progress.  Apartments beyond left field, and the Delaney Condominiums in right, are nearing completion, while additional spaces accessible from outside the stadium are expected to become retail or restaurant venues. The stadium is within walking distance of Knoxville’s Old City district, known for its vibrant bar and restaurant scene, as well as the nearby Market Street neighborhood, which offers excellent dining options and hotels. The area is also known for its nightlife that should still be bustling following a Smokies game, especially on Fridays and Saturday nights. Other nearby attractions enhance the experience of a game day visit; the University of Tennessee is less than three miles away, making it easy to catch a college baseball  or softball game. The Knoxville Ice Bears of the Southern Professional Hockey League may also be in season, while for basketball fans, the Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame is just down the road. Knoxville was also home of the 1982 World’s Fair – probably nothing celebrates The Fair more than the 266-foot tall Sunsphere on the grounds of World’s Fair Park. The neighboring Knoxville Convention Center is also home to then World’s Largest Rubix Cube. Note that the area just north of Covenant Health Park does feel a bit concerning, so having a bit of a heightened sense of awareness if heading in that direction might be advisable. Fans 4 The Smokies’ return to Knoxville has come with a lot of excitement. Even while being in the top 50 of all minor league attendance while in the more isolated Kodak, the move back to the city has seen an increase in average attendance per game, drawing roughly 5,300 fans per home date thru the early months of this season. Despite many of the fans populating the social areas of the stadium, most are in tune with the ups and downs of the game and help create a true home-field environment.   Access   3 With its downtown location, parking around the facility comes at a premium. The Smokies promote parking  with a free shuttle bus service to and from the ballpark from the Summer Place, Langley, and Market Square parking garages. Those looking for free parking might look to the West Magnolia Avenue parking lots, or private lots in the area in proximity to the stadium start at $20. Those using rideshare to get to Covenant Health Park are dropped off on the north side of the stadium, and must walk the exterior of the venue to the main entry at the corner of Patton Street and East Jackson Avenue. For the most part, the concourse is wide enough to easily handle large crowds with minimal congestion, but there are some spots behind home plate where food carts and promotional tables do create a bit of a choke point. The remainder of the concourse is spacious, however, leaving plenty of room for fans to navigate the stadium.   Return on Investment   3 Ticket prices seem to be a touch on the high side, with adult tickets starting anywhere between $18 to $23, depending on whether it is a weekday, weekend, or holiday game; these rates are prior to taxes and a convenience charge of $2.50 to $3 applied to each ticket. Therefore, when all is said and done, an individual ticket ends up costing $22 to $27. At $5 for prepaid parking or $7 for day-of parking, the return on investment is more than reasonable when considering parking at similarly-sized ballparks. Concession and apparel prices definitely are subject to stadium premiums, but not much more than would be expected at other sports facilities. There are some deals that can be found on t-shirts in the team shop, though.   Extras   4 The Smokies have three mascots who make the rounds throughout the game – Knox and Jackson, a father and son bear duo, as well as mountain man Mountain Joe. As with most mascots, the trio spends their time taking endless photos with fans and helping host mid-inning games. Space is at a bit of a premium, and Covenant Health Park does a good job of squeezing features into interesting areas. For example, the children’s play area has found a home tucked under a section of apartments in left field. Statues of Knoxville Giants legends Jerry Benjamin, William M. Brooks, Claude Dickey, Forrest Maddox, William Nathaniel Rogers, and Jim Tugerson honor Knoxville’s Negro League history. Another statue commemorates the Payne Avenue Little League, the city’s first league for Black children. In a nod to their parent club, the Smokies play “Go Cubs, Go!” after each win, bringing a little bit of Wrigley Field’s charm to Tennessee.   Final Thoughts Baseball’s return to Knoxville has come with a great deal of excitement, and with good reason. The stadium experience in Kodak was enjoyable, but pretty much started when you entered the gates and ended as soon as you left. Alternatively, what the Smokies have created in Knoxville is a minor league baseball experience that seamlessly transitions from outside the stadium, in, and back out again once the ball game is over. Despite there being some challenges that impact the overall experience, the Smokies have done what they can to mitigate the impact they make on the experience. Baseball at Covenant Health Park is one that will surely only improve as more of the surrounding area takes shape.

Photos by Gregory Koch, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.14 First National Bank Field 408 Bellemeade St Greensboro, NC 27401 Greensboro Grasshoppers website First National Bank Field Year Opened: 2005 Capacity: 7,449 Hop on Down to Greensboro Baseball First National Bank Field in Greensboro, North Carolina is the home of the Greensboro Grasshoppers, the South Atlantic League affiliate of the Pittsburgh Pirates. Built in 2005, the stadium replaced the aging and outdated World War Memorial Stadium, which had been in use since 1979. At that point, the team rebranded from the Bats to the Grasshoppers. Baseball has been played in Greensboro since 1902, although not always continuously. The Greensboro Farmers lasted just that inaugural 1902 season but would return in 1905. After several more on-and-off teams over the years, the Greensboro Hornets came to town in 1979, and baseball has been played here ever since. Food & Beverage 4 There are three different main concession stands at First National Bank Stadium, with special names like Cornwallis's Last Stand and O'Henry's Corner, but all three serve similar menus. Hot dogs are available, including several specialty dogs, as are burgers, spicy chicken sandwiches, and all your standard ballpark fare. What brings this ranking up a notch is the several specialty stands located in carts and tables around the concourse. Here you will find nachos (topped with pulled pork and other toppings if you wish), ice cream sundaes (sadly not in a helmet) and more. Keep in mind First National Bank Field is a cashless facility, so only credit cards are accepted. Atmosphere 4 A Greensboro Grasshoppers game is a lively experience the entire evening. Before the game starts, the teams' two mascots, grasshoppers named Guilford and Guilly drive around the field in their golf cart and get the crowd energized. Guilford is furry and cute, while Guilly is not furry and is dressed like a pirate in homage to the Grasshoppers' affiliation with the major league Pittsburgh Pirates. Fireworks are shot off after every Grasshoppers' home run. The team plays sound effects over the PA system throughout the entire night, including classics such as the breaking glass for foul balls as well as references to pop culture. They're particularly fond of "What's the matter, are you scared of Grasshoppers?" from Bug's Life but also use classic lines from The Simpsons and other TV shows and movies. As for the stadium itself, there is some berm seating down the right field line, but the remainder of the seats are box seat chairbacks. This is a small, intimate stadium, so no matter where you sit, you will have a great view of the action. There is a large scoreboard in right-centerfield that mostly shows player stats and the lineups in addition to the basic gameday information, but is capable of showing videos as well. Neighborhood 5 First National Bank Field is located in the heart of Center City Greensboro, a mixed-use development that includes apartments as well as hotels and local businesses. Grey's Tavern and Fisher's Grill are popular eateries within a mile of the ballpark, and you will be able to find just about any other cuisine that you want nearby as well from Italian to Chinese to Mexican to Greek to Korean. History buffs will definitely want to check out the International Civil Rights Center & Museum on the site of the Woolworth's where the first sit-ins occurred in 1960. There are guided tours available every day of the week except Sunday, but you must book in advance. Fans 4 The Grasshoppers draw good crowds to a typical home game, especially on Friday and Saturday nights. Although the ballpark may not completely sell out, expect around 4,000 to 5,000 fans for a typical home game, which is is near the top of the South Atlantic League. The fans are active and will get loud when the Grasshoppers score or make a big play in the field. They are also knowledgeable about the game and the team and will often comment to each other on what is going on and why something played out the way it did. Access 4 First National Bank Park is located just a few miles off of I-85 and I-40 in the heart of Greensboro. The main entrance to the stadium is located halfway down Bellemeade Street, across from a large parking garage that costs $5, card only. There are some other private lots nearby that may cost less and/or accept cash, but which will be a longer walk. Once inside the stadium, there is a spacious concourse that runs along most of foul territory and a little bit of fair territory. You can see the field from the entire concourse, which is a plus when waiting at the concession stand. There are several sets of restrooms which are more than big enough for the crowds. One downside of access at First National Bank Field is that gates open only half an hour before first pitch for weekday games. (They do open an hour before on weekends.) This is disappointing for fans who want to get in early and explore the ballpark. In fairness, they did open the gates a few minutes early when we visited. Return on Investment 5 Tickets to Grasshopper games are very affordable. Berm seating is just $11, while if you want an actual seat, that will cost $15-$17 depending on how close to home plate you are. Keep in mind there is an extra surcharge for buying on gameday. Parking is just $5, and can be less if you are willing to walk. Concessions are affordable as well. Keep in mind First National Bank Field is a completely cashless facility, including the parking garage, although some private lots nearby do take cash. Extras 3 Richard Wilkinson, the stadium usher in the aisle between Sections 108 and 109, has been named the funniest usher in minor league baseball. Between innings, he will use a dry erase white board to show super corny jokes to the amusement of fans sitting in those sections. He will also occasionally use the whiteboard to make announcements to the fans or to welcome them to the ballpark at the start of the game. The Grasshoppers have a bat dog named Willie Mae Mays who will run onto the field to retrieve the Grasshoppers' bats in her mouth, to the enjoyment of fans. A third and final star for the kids' play area down the right field line. Greensboro Grasshoppers' usher Richard Wilkinson holds up dry erase boards with a super corny, yet funny joke. Final Thoughts First National Bank Field is a gorgeous, modern stadium with all the amenities one might expect of a newer ballpark. The Greensboro Grasshoppers have a loyal fan base and put on an outstanding gameday experience. Baseball fans in North Carolina will definitely want to hop on down here to check out a game.

Photos by Gregory Koch, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FAN FARE Score: 3.14 Truist Point 301 N Elm St High Point, NC 27262 High Point Rockers website Truist Point website Year Opened: 2019 Capacity: 5,000 Indie Rockers If you make a trip to the Piedmont Triad of North Carolina, you will find the High Point Rockers, a baseball team in the independent Atlantic League, that calls Truist Point their home. The Rockers began play in 2019 after the Bridgeport Bluefish and their stadium ceased to exist. The Rockers nickname was a winner of a "Name the Team" contest and pays homage to High Point's booming furniture industry, specifically rocking chairs. Truist Point seats about 5,000 fans and is located in the heart of High Point. Despite its name, High Point is not at a particularly high elevation - at one point it was the highest point along a railroad in North Carolina, but that was before the tracks were extended across the mountains to the west. The tracks are still there today, and you can hear the occasional train blowing its horn during the game. Food & Beverage 4 There are several different concession stands at Truist Point. Most of them serve similar, though not identical, menus. In right field, you will find the Pitchin' Kitchen, and right next to that, since Truist Point now hosts soccer as well, you will find Kickin' Kitchen. There are several other stands down the left field line serving similar items. All of the classics are here, including burgers (which come with pickles on them, although they don't tell you that), hot dogs, chicken tenders, and more. Since this is North Carolina, pulled pork barbecue is also available at one stand. For those with a sweet tooth, ice cream and funnel cake fries are available. The ice cream comes with self-serve chocolate syrup, and the kids seem to enjoy getting to use the squeeze bottle themselves. Soda and bottled water are also available, as is beer to those fans of age. The prices are about typical for a ballpark at this level, but additional value can be had from combo deals that include both a main food item and fries. Atmosphere 3 Truist Point has a weird design for a stadium. For starters, although the capacity is officially 5,000, there are only about 10 or 11 rows of standard seats seats. Above that, you will find club and group areas, something the team leans very heavily into. The seats behind the Rockers' dugout are also all club seats which sell for an enhanced price, although the seats directly behind home plate are not. A large videoboard is located in right-centerfield. The field itself is also bizarre. The surface is all turf, including the infield, which itself is not too unusual. However, instead of the infield "dirt" being dirt-colored turf, it is instead the color of grass, although not the same shade of green as the rest of the field. Truist Point is now home to a soccer team in MLS Next Pro as well, and that league required that the entire field be green. However, the Atlantic League requires the infield "dirt" to be a different color than the "grass" in order to enforce the rule that four infielders must be on or inside the dirt at all times, hence the slightly different shade. This has turned Truist Point from one of the nicest looking turf fields in baseball to one of the ugliest. The Rockers have a mascot named Hype, who appropriately for the team name, is a rocking horse. He can be seen roving the stands interacting with fans, and also races kids on the field in a contest during the game. Other contests on the field range from the standard ones to more unusual ones like throwing as many cupcakes as possible through a hole in an inflatable donut. Neighborhood 3 High Point is one of three major cities in the Piedmont Triad of North Carolina, along with Greensboro and Winston-Salem. It is a medium-sized city with a lot to offer, although little of it is within walking distance of the ballpark. Sweet Old Bill's is about a mile from the ballpark and offers southern comfort food, barbecue, and beer on tap. They are also an official sponsor of the Rockers. You will find many other places to eat, drink, and hang out in that section of Main Street as well, including Frady's Taphouse and Eatery and Tom's Place. Fans 2 The Rockers average about 1,900 fans a game officially, which ranks them towards the bottom of the Atlantic League. The actual number of people in seats on a given night will usually be substantially less than that, as this total includes season ticket holders who don't show up. The fans are not usually that involved, although you do get the occasional excited screaming kid or drunk heckler. Usually they get bored of that pretty quickly. Expect a lot of empty seats at a typical Rockers home game. Access 3 High Point is located along I-85 and I-74, about halfway between Durham and Charlotte. Depending on traffic, it could take you between an hour and 90 minutes to drive from either the Raleigh-Durham area or Charlotte to get to High Point. It is part of the Piedmont Triad, which also includes the nearby cities of Greensboro and Winston-Salem. There are several lots near the stadium where you can park for $5. They are clearly signed, as are lots you should not park in if you do not want to get towed. Keep in mind the lots are cash only, so prepare accordingly. Gates open only half an hour before the game, which is disappointing for fans who want to get in early and explore. Once inside, the concourses are more than wide enough for the crowds. There are several sets of restrooms, all of which are more than sufficient for the crowds that use them. Return on Investment 4 Assuming you are not sitting in one of the many club areas, a High Point Rockers game is not particularly expensive. Tickets start at just $8 for outfield seats. The most expensive non-club seats are directly behind home plate for just $16. The numerous club seats will cost you about $50 each, and are not really worth the cost. Be sure to check social media before you buy tickets, as additional discounts and even free tickets for select groups are frequently available that can further enhance value. Concessions are affordable and parking is not bad at just $5. Overall, a Rockers game is an above average value for the fans. Extras 3 There is a kids' play are down the left field line as well as a team store near home plate. Each of these are worthy of an extra star. Autograph seekers and those looking to interact with the players may wish to stand along the right aisle in Section 107 before the game, which is on a rail overlooking a tunnel between the Rockers' clubhouse and dugout. Final Thoughts Truist Point is an unusual stadium, and not necessarily in a positive way. Nonetheless, if you are in the Piedmont Triad, a trip to a Rockers game can be a fun way to spend a summer's night. Hang out with Hype and watch a baseball game up close for a great price.

Photos by Chris Green, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.71 Rainbow Wahine Softball Stadium Kalele Rd Honolulu, HI 96822 Hawaii Rainbow Wahine website Rainbow Wahine Softball Stadium website Year Opened: 1985 Capacity: 1,200 Island Softball Though many may think of Hawaii as a vacation paradise and less of a sports destination, the atmosphere at University of Hawaii athletics events seeks to change that, and Rainbow Wahine softball is no different. A facility that feels like the venues of yesteryear, while offering free admission, is the highlight here, and loyal fans are plentiful.   Food & Beverage   3 There is only one proper concession stand at Hawaii softball games, and its menu is accordingly limited. Hot dogs ($6), chili dogs ($7), chili bowls ($5.50), and a chili frank plate ($6) are the highlights, while other options include cheese nachos ($6), chili cheese nachos ($6.50), Enjoy snacks ($4.50), chips ($2.50), and candy ($2.50). Drinks include 20 oz bottled sodas and water for $4.50, and there is also a local vendor who sells Dippin’ Dots ice cream for $6 from a separate cart under the grandstands.   Atmosphere   4 The stadium itself is simple enough – the main seating area behind home plate features a roof to cover the seats and the small press areas. However, the support beams and dark aesthetic harken back to old stadiums from the beginning of baseball’s existence. The left and right field lines feature additional backless bleacher seating that is open to the elements, though netting protects all seats so you won’t have to worry about getting hit by a foul ball. The left field ramp from the ground level to the grandstand also offers an elevated look at the bullpen for the visiting team. Right field features restrooms that are covered by large graphic walls featuring the team’s schedule, while along the back side of the main seating area are banners featuring star players from the team’s past, connecting the team to their past successes. The biggest plus here is the view from Rainbow Wahine Softball Stadium; the field orientation facing north means the outfield view is campus housing and the tropical foliage-covered foothills of the Ko’olau Mountains.   Neighborhood   4 The ballpark itself is located on the University of Hawaii campus, located just north of the popular Waikiki Beach area of Honolulu. Just a few miles from campus are the world-famous sandy beaches that have attracted visitors for hundreds of years, and you’re also not far from local restaurants, as well as chain favorites and hotels. To the east is Diamond Head State Monument, a popular hiking site, and beyond that are iconic shorelines of rocky cliffs. Fans   4 The fans at Hawaii softball games are mostly locals, or friends and family of visiting teams. Being located in such a popular tourist city means that visiting teams will travel well thanks to fans wanting to make a whole trip out of watching their favorite team play in Hawaii. The fans here are also very sport-knowledgeable, and know when to cheer with each dramatic play on the field. On top of that, the free admission to games means many students come and go throughout the day, as gaps in their schedules permit between classes. This laid-back atmosphere also fits with the island vibe.   Access   3 The parking at Hawaii softball games is arguably the biggest struggle for this game day experience – the nearby Kalele Road Garage and UH Guest Parking Garage offer the best and closest options. Entry off nearby Dole Street or Kalele Road makes for easy in-and-out access; both of these are located right off the H1 Highway, making for easy driving if you’re staying nearby, or even if you are staying farther away. Return on Investment   5 Tickets to Hawaii softball games are completely free. With affordable parking options nearby, you literally pay almost nothing for a game here, and getting to watch D1 NCAA Softball for free is a great reason to take in a game at Rainbow Wahine Softball Stadium.   Extras   3 The stadium is located across the street from both the baseball  and football  facilities at the University of Hawaii, while tennis plays their matches next door. This means visiting other sporting events on the same day is easy whenever multiple events are taking place. Hawaii softball also offers giveaways at some games, including goodies for fans. Finally, some games throughout the year are themed, meaning fans can get various experiences as they take in a game at Rainbow Wahine Softball Stadium.   Final Thoughts Though most fans visiting Hawaii may not expect softball to be on their sports to-do list, missing this free admission show would be a mistake. Located in a beautiful part of campus, this simple yet enjoyable setting gives you everything you need as a sports fan to satisfy your needs when it comes to college softball.

Photos by Chris Green, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.57 Moody Erwin Center 2001 Robert Dedman Dr Austin, TX 78712 Texas Longhorns website Moody Center website Year Opened: 2022 Capacity: 11,313 Texas Basketball Excellence Imagine what happens when you have your team’s biggest fan design the ideal sports arena for your favorite team. Taking into account food options, fan services, and sightlines, you construct the perfect facility, and that is exactly what the University of Texas did when Matthew McConaughey helped design Moody Center in 2018. Arguably the biggest Texas sports fan there is, McConaughey was deeply involved in the venue’s creation. The result? One of the best college basketball areas in America, especially for women’s basketball.   Food & Beverage   5 Texas is known for great food, and Austin itself is a bustling center of culinary expansion in the region, so it comes as no surprise that Texas basketball games give you a wide variety of food options from local restaurants. And while prices may be high compared to some sports facilities, the quality is top-notch. A sample of the various options you can find here include BBQ short rib sliders ($14), tacos ($15), Trisha Yearwood’s Party Nachos ($25), sopapillas ($8), and local ice cream ($6-$8). Drinks include beer ($8-$18.75), soda ($4-$5), cocktails and spirits ($16-$35), and even a rotating wine and champagne menu that constantly changes ($17+). Atmosphere   5 The arena has all the modern touches you’d expect at a brand-new NBA stadium. Modernized suites, HD screen scoreboards, and a standing-room only sky deck are some of the features you can enjoy while you’re in Moody Center. The grand entrance features the Longhorn logo hanging above as you walk in, and a massive fan store sells every sort of Texas fan gear you could possibly need. Perhaps what makes this women’s basketball experience best, however, is how they manage the arena capacity – while the upper-most level is not usually open for women’s basketball games, the team has come up with an ingenious way to hide the empty seats that are not in use. Large projector screens are extended down to cover those seats, and instead show a constant flow of game statistics, fan engagement, and advertisements for UT events and games – this adds yet another layer of excellence for the hardcore fan who likes to follow the sport beyond the score. The pre-game intros also include laser lights and pyrotechnics, giving you the big-game feel college basketball deserves, but rarely serves up.   Neighborhood   5 Texas basketball plays in the heart of downtown Austin – the city center is visible from the arena’s outside patios, so you are right there in the middle of one of the most vibrant and quickly growing cities in the nation. The airport is a bit of a drive, however, depending on traffic. For great food you can’t skip The Salt Lick or Torchy’s Tacos. Austin is also home to the Congress Bridge, famous for its thousands of bats that fly out every night, as well as Zilker Park on Lady Bird Lake. Finally, for a hotel, look for Hilton Austin Airport or Holiday Inn Austin Airport as two options that are great, due to their proximity to the airport and to major highways that lead to downtown. For sports fans, Moody Center’s location right near the other athletic facilities on campus is great for watching multiple games in a day, with softball , tennis , and baseball  located right down the street.   Fans   5 Texas fans are among the most hardcore in all of college sports. Women’s basketball is no different, as games routinely feature completely packed arena seating. To make it more impressive, the fans are incredibly sport knowledgeable; they know every player and every chant for each situation. Team colors are a must for the wardrobe, and even the hardcore folks come decked out head to toe in Longhorn gear. On top of that, the hospitality is impressive – fans here are welcoming and kind to visitors.   Access   5 Moody Center enjoys the luxury of being quite literally one block from the nearest interstate highway – located off exit 235 on I-35, the facility is refreshingly easy to access. The Manor and Trinity Street Garages are your closest options for parking, with numerous other garages and lots also open for fans to park for varying prices.   Return on Investment   5 Tickets for Texas Women’s Basketball are incredibly affordable, starting at just $9. Simply taking into account the quality of Moody Center and the fact the team is one of the best in the nation, you’re getting a top-tier basketball experience in a modern facility for low cost. Parking is also plentiful in various lots and garages right next to the arena.   Extras   3 The facility boasts countless championship banners and retired player numbers in the rafters, and graphics all over the main concourse showcase the history of Texas basketball over the years. Just outside the Northwest Lobby in the main concourse is a copy of the original drawing that Matthew McConaughey drew with Charles Attal when they were designing the arena. Before the game starts, fans can enjoy the various sponsor and fan activations outside the main entrance of the facility, as well as activities for kids.   Final Thoughts Texas Women’s Basketball is one of the top programs in the nation lately, and their arena experience reflects that. Texas fans are known for their loyalty and fervor, and Moody Center was perfectly designed to capture and embrace that love for their home team. Without a doubt, this is one of the top women’s basketball experiences in the entire country, and skipping it would be a grave disservice to the sport.

Photos by Chris Green, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.43 Sebring International Raceway 113 Midway Dr Sebring, FL 33870 SpeedTour website Sebring International Raceway website Year Opened: 1950 SpeedTour’s Florida Season Kick-Off The start of the race season shows up early in Florida, and Sebring is a perfect place to celebrate that. The annual SpeedTour weekend, featuring SVRA, Trans Am, and International GT, showcases sportscar racing’s past and future. Held each year in late February, this race is a great place for families and car enthusiasts, complete with car shows and thrilling race action. Food & Beverage   4 There is no shortage of food vendors around the track at Sebring. From the main paddock and ever-popular Track Shack (get The Beast, it is probably the best item you can eat at the track and is only known on the secret menu at Sebring) to the various drink and snack stops around the track, you never have to go too far to get something to quench your thirst, or ease the pain of hunger. The cost of everything is also what one may consider moderately fair, as food and snack items range from just a few dollars to $12 to $14 for bigger items at the Snack Shack. The event also invites several food trucks to the event as well, which are set up near the paddock area. Atmosphere   3 The Sebring facility is steeped in racing history; fans from around the world regard it as one of the best tracks for many reasons. SpeedTour weekend features a much more laid-back vibe compared to the IMSA 12 Hours , and everyone seems to be here to have a great time. The track lacks many conventional amenities one would expect from a top-level racetrack, but makes up for it with viewing access and history. Access to Green Park is also included all weekend, something not always open during smaller events. However, the facility itself has some massive upgrades needed. For example, almost all the roads through Green Park and trackside are dirt, meaning the dust gets really heavy at times. The restrooms around the facility are also beyond abysmal, featuring moldy troughs in the men’s rooms, as well as bugs galore with no AC to speak of. Grandstands have been added at various corners but are no less sparse, and views of the front stretch and finish line are extremely limited, with no good angles to be had for fans outside the paddock suites.   Neighborhood   3 There isn’t exactly anything around Sebring International Raceway, as it’s located in the middle of nowhere. Sebring itself is a town located in the middle of Florida, at least an hour and a half from the nearest major city or population center. Thus, while the town of Sebring itself may have some shopping and dining, as well as a few hotels, you are likely better off camping at the track for the whole weekend.   Fans   4 The fans at SpeedTour weekend cross over from other events at Sebring, including IMSA , SCCA, and HSR events. Trackside camping is popular all around the track, and as usual, several fans decorate their campers and campsites with lights and decorations. Thankfully, the craziness of IMSA weekend is nowhere to be found here, and a much more family-friendly atmosphere can be enjoyed because of it. Without a doubt, Saturday is the best day to attend, with the most racing action on track happening that day, complete with car shows and fan access to several grid walks on pit road. Access   3 The roads in and out of Sebring aren’t exactly major highways, with the biggest road being US-27 running towards Miami to the South and Orlando to the North. There is plenty of parking at the track, however, and trams help take you from parking lots farther away from the main grandstands and paddock to points of interest around the track. You never feel like you are too far from anywhere either, as there are several perfectly placed crossover bridges around the track to get you to points of interest throughout the weekend. Any fan can also come down to the paddock and get up close to the stars and cars that are in attendance.   Return on Investment   4 Tickets to SpeedTour weekend are much less expensive than IMSA’s 12 Hours  in March – this means you get to enjoy the sights and sounds of the race cars of yesteryear without breaking the bank. A family 4-pack of weekend tickets is just $175 and includes parking. Weekend 2-packs are $125, while a single weekend pass is just $65. If you want to add on camping for the weekend, that is just $50. Single day tickets are also available for Friday ($20), Saturday ($30), and Sunday ($30). Parking passes for the VIP parking lot are $25 a day, or $35 for the weekend. Without a doubt, this is a great event to take younger fans to as well, and your access is much more up close here than at traditional races you may go to.   Extras   3 Taking in the race at Sebring has its perks for fans, with various autograph sessions held throughout the weekend. In addition, fans also have the opportunity to get into the paddock area of the track free of charge, giving an up-close view of the teams as they prepare for one of the year's biggest races. Also, before the main event on Saturday, all the teams bring their cars out to the false grid before the race starts, where fans can come to see the cars and drivers up close, before the cars head out onto the track. While exploring the facility, there are also various info plaques to help tell the history of the track, including at the Flag Pole, the Officer’s Club, and Turn 7 at the Seven Hotel.   Final Thoughts The annual SpeedTour weekend is a great place to watch some racing action on one of America’s most historic race circuits. Filled with exciting action, this weekend is a must-go for all the fans who don’t want the craziness of the IMSA 12 Hour  weekend, but instead are looking for a family friendly race day.