Photos by Lance Sutehall, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.43 AT&T Field 201 Power Alley Chattanooga, TN 37402 Chattanooga Lookouts website AT&T Field website Year Opened: 2000 Capacity: 6,382 Lookout, It's The Lookouts! Roughly halfway between the cities of Nashville and Atlanta lies the city of Chattanooga, the fourth most populated city in Tennessee. Chattanooga is home to the Lookouts minor league baseball team, the AA affiliate of the Cincinnati Reds. The Lookouts play in the Southern League, winning the league three times, most recently in 2017. The Lookouts have called AT&T Field their home since 2000 after playing at Engel Stadium since 1930. However, the Lookouts broke ground on a $115 Million new stadium that is scheduled to open in time for the 2026 season. AT&T Field will likely be demolished when the Lookouts leave and the area will be redeveloped. Food & Beverage 4 The main concession stands serve a variety of food such as hot dogs ($4), chili cheese dogs ($5.50), bratwursts ($6.50), garden salads ($7.50), grilled chicken salad ($10), veggie wraps ($7), pimento cheese sandwiches ($5.50), nachos ($5), peanuts ($4), cracker jack ($5), pretzels ($6), popcorn ($4), and a slice of Looie’s signature pizza ($4). Coca-Cola is the soft drink provider at AT&T Field with small ($3.50) and large ($5.50) sodas, bottled water ($4), Powerade ($5), Bodyarmor ($7), Monster Energy drinks ($7) and Thelma’s Lemonade ($4.50) on offer. “The Sweet Spot” sells sweet treats such as ice cream cups ($3.50), ice cream cones ($5), ice cream floats ($6), ice cream sundaes ($7), funnel cakes ($), deep fried Oreos ($5), and Oatly ice cream bars ($5). The “Lookouts Grill” offers made-to-order options such as cheesesteaks ($10), cheesesteak nachos ($12), sausage plate ($10), polish sausage ($7.50), and a Chatta-Cheesesteak ($15). For those who want a beer, there are domestic drafts ($7) and Five Wits Brewing Company branded brews ($8) sold at the concession stands. Down the third baseline is the “Beer Hut” with domestics for $8 and craft beers/seltzers going for $9 while further down the line is the “Five Witts Beer Garden” as well as the Budweiser Party Deck. Atmosphere 3 AT&T Field is built on top of a fairly steep hill but fortunately, there is an outdoor escalator that gets the fans close to the entrance. A small flight of stairs gets the fans to the main ballpark gates. Upon entering the gates the fans find themselves in a fairly small concourse. The team store is on the right upon entering the concourse while a statue of “Looie”, the Lookouts mascot is in front of the stairwell that leads into the seating bowl. The seating is a bit lopsided as it extends throughout the first base line while it stops at third base. The aforementioned beer garden and party deck is located along the third base line while the CHI Memorial Picnic Pavilion is located behind the right field wall. There are fans on the roofs of the main seating bowl that provide some breeze for the spectators. Kids are invited to run the bases after every Lookouts game, weather permitting. Promotion nights include “Food City Tuesdays” where fans that show a Food City “ValuCard” receive buy one, get one general admission tickets, “Chick-fil-A Giveaway Wednesdays” which give attendees a free item at Chick-fil-A, “Thirsty Thursday” drink specials, “Fireworks Fridays” where the Lookouts put on a postgame firework show, and “Spin-to-win Saturdays” in which a couple of fans are randomly selected to win prizes. On Sundays kids that are “Little Debbie Little Lookouts Kids Club” members attend games for free and fans of all ages are invited on the field to play catch on the field. Fans can get a free general admission ticket for a Sunday game if they bring a canned good for the local food pantry. Neighborhood 4 One of the best views of Chattanooga is seen from Point Park on the edge of Lookout Mountain. There was a Civil War battle in the area and Point Park has many monuments honoring the battle. Lookout Mountain is where the “Lookouts” got their name. For families, the Creative Discovery Museum offers science exhibits for the kids and the Tennessee Aquarium is four blocks away and right next to the Tennessee Riverwalk. If you head East on 4th Street you will pass by McKenzie Arena, the home of Chattanooga Mocs Basketball before continuing to Engel Stadium, the longtime home for Chattanooga Lookouts from 1930-1999. Continue driving past the railroad tracks and the Chattanooga Zoo will be on the right. The Southern Belle Riverboat offers cruises throughout the Tennessee River. Dining options near the ballpark include Puckett’s Restaurant for Southern cuisine, Agave & Rye for Tacos, and Lupi’s Pizza Pies. There are plenty of hotel chains including Courtyard, Residence Inn, and Hilton Garden Inn. All of the mentioned hotels are a quick walk to the ballpark. Fans 3 The Lookouts are one of the oldest minor league teams in existence. The fandom has been passed down from generation to generation. The fans are knowledgeable about their team and have a good time. “Looie” the Lookouts mascot walks throughout the ballpark and is part of the team’s introduction. The video board offers games and other entertainment during breaks in the action. The emcees get involved with the on-field activities, offer fun quizzes, and encourage the fans to keep their enthusiasm up. Access 3 From I-24 East turn off Exit 178 and merge onto Highway 27. Then take exit 1C on West 4th Street and make a left on Chestnut Street and another left on West 3rd Street. AT&T Field will be on the right. From I-24 West get off exit 178 onto Highway 27. Follow the same directions as I-24 Eastbound to AT&T Field. AT&T Field does not have a designated parking lot but there are a couple of parking garages nearby for $5 as well as street parking in the surrounding blocks that is free after 6 pm. The concourse is fairly narrow and gets cramped when everyone is arriving at the ballpark. Return on Investment 4 General admission bleacher seats cost $11 and reserved chairback seats are $14, fees included. If you buy a general admission ticket, a hot dog, beer, and park on the street you would pay about $25. The Lookouts offer a Family 4-Pack where each person gets a general admission seat and $10 in concessions for a total of$78. ($19.50/person). A night at AT&T Field is a great way to enjoy an evening in Chattanooga without breaking the bank. Extras 3 AT&T Field’s outdoor escalator is one of a kind in the minor leagues. The ballpark being built on a steep hill makes it a necessity. The sunset at AT&T Field provides a gorgeous backdrop for a baseball game. A lot of the attractions in Chattanooga are within walking distance of AT&T Field. Final Thoughts AT&T Field provides a beautiful view of the Chattanooga hills. Its days are unfortunately numbered but the memories that the ballpark provided will live on through those that witnessed a baseball game there.

Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.71 Mercedes-Benz Stadium 1 AMB Dr Atlanta, GA 30313 Atlanta Falcons website Mercedes-Benz Stadium website Year Opened: 2017 Capacity: 71,000 The Mercedes-Benz of Pro Football Stadiums Mercedes-Benz Stadium has served as the Falcon’s home nest since 2017. It replaced the Georgia Dome, which was located right next to the new stadium before it was imploded. It has been seen as the stadium of the future due to its unique design and the many high-tech features it includes. The current stadium has a capacity of 71,000, including 193 luxury suites. It offers a wide variety of advanced technology to enhance the fan experience on Sunday game days. Food & Beverage 5 The food and beverage program introduced when the stadium opened in 2017 has truly been a game changer, and it has inspired the other NFL stadiums to follow suit. The main element of the concessions program is its fans-first pricing structure for the most popular items. The low prices for items including sodas, hot dogs, and popcorn make it possible for a family of four to be fed at a game without taking a bank loan. The results have been very impressive, as sales volume makes up for the revenue lost by selling items at a lower cost. The concessions innovations also include the streamlining of the order process so that fans do not miss any of the action on the field when they go to the concession stand. Items are priced at whole dollar levels and the sales are on a cashless basis. This means that there is no need to make changes for the customer. Numerous ATM devices at the stadium can convert cash into a debit card for gameday purchases. Drink orders for sodas and water require that the concessions workers simply hand the customer a cup, which the customer can fill at a dispensing station located away from the stand, which reduces the backups that sometimes occur. An added perk for the fans is that refills are free. The food and beverage program at Falcons home games is also fan-friendly due to the wide variety of food categories offered at the stadium. The generic stadium foods are found at the stands known as Atlanta FanFare. The remaining vendors are made up of a wide variety of Atlanta-based restaurants. Examples of these vendors include local favorites Farm Burger, J.R. Crickets, Molly B’s Restaurant, and Williamson Brothers BBQ. The concessions program also offers food for persons with certain dietary restrictions, such as vegetarian or gluten-free dishes. The drink selections at Mercedes-Benz reflect the definite loyalty to a certain local bottler whose world headquarters is right down the street from the stadium. Yes, Coca-Cola products are featured at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Beer is sold at stands reflecting the various brands sold in the stadium. Budweiser is sold at the Budweiser Beer Garden, at Bud and Burger stands, and at the Bud Light Neighborhood Bar. There are similar stands for the other beer brands Atmosphere 4 Mercedes-Benz Stadium has received excellent reviews from visiting teams, their fans, and the press. It is truly a next-generation facility, as it features some of the newest innovations in stadium design. The halo board is one of a kind, as it provides fans with information about the game on the field, as well as out-of-town scores and any upcoming events at the stadium. It is hard to ignore, as it is 58 feet tall and measures 1,100 linear feet around. This makes it the largest non-transparent video display in the world. The stadium also has a feature that allows for the roof to be open or closed depending on the weather. The position of the retractable roof also helps to determine how much crowd noise is contained within the stadium. Neighborhood 4 The home of the Falcons is in downtown Atlanta, near some of the city’s top tourist attractions. These attractions include Centennial Olympic Park, the College Football Hall of Fame, the Georgia Aquarium, the World of Coca-Cola, and the Center for Civil and Human Rights. In 2024, the new Signia by Hilton Hotel opened adjacent to Mercedes-Benz Stadium, adding a convenient place for visiting fans to stay on football weekends. Other lodging options in the area are the Embassy Suites at Olympic Centennial Park and the Holiday Inn Express and Suites Downtown Atlanta. Restaurants in the area include the Hudson Grille and Der Biergarten. Fans 3 Falcons fans are fired up for the 2024 season, as the team has a new coaching staff and has added two new quality QBs in Kirk Cousins and Michael Penix. The Falcons play in the Southern Division of the NFC Conference, which no longer has a dominant team. The Falcon faithful get especially fired up for their annual pair of games against their hated rival, the New Orleans Saints. Longtime Falcon fans will want to head up to the 300-level concourse. This area has a wide selection of food stands as well as the “100 Yard Club. The concourse floor has the appearance of a football field, with yard markings and yard lines. The pillars throughout this area feature the likeness and stats of some of the team’s greatest players. The team’s Hall of Fame is known as the Ring of Honor and there is a display that features each Ring member’s stats and their photo. Both team owner Arthur Blank and former QB Matt Ryan were initiated into the Ring of Honor in 2024. Access 3 Atlanta traffic, especially on weekends, can be tough. However, with a little planning, and some great resources, fans can be at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in plenty of time for the opening kickoff. Parking at the stadium opens 4.5 hours before the game and there’s usually a good showing of fans getting ready to tailgate even at that early hour. Hopefully, you pre-purchased your parking space ahead of gameday and you are all set. Let’s say you got a late start. You are stuck in traffic. What do you do? The Falcons partner with the traffic app WAZE, so you check the app and get real-time info on any trouble on the road ahead and it also suggests alternative routes to get to Mercedes-Benz. Cutting it a little close, but you get there. Let’s say you are from out of town and know very little about the streets in downtown Atlanta. You are staying in the suburbs; the front desk tells you about a MARTA light rail station nearby. MARTA is Atlanta’s rapid transit system with both a north/south line and an east/west line. The fare is a flat fee of $2.50 per ride, regardless of the distance. MARTA has two light rail stations (Vine City and GWCC/Phillips Arena/CNN Center) Both are within a block of Mercedes-Benz Stadium. You use Uber/Lyft or other rideshare services back home. Choose the ride service you refer to and leave the driving to them. The rideshare services have two drop-off and pickup areas near Mercedes-Benz Stadium (one is on Northside Drive on the western side of the stadium, and the second is along the eastern side of the stadium along Centennial Park Drive) Now that you’re at Mercedes-Benz Stadium you can relax somewhat. There are four main gates with multiple lines available at each gate. The gates open 90 minutes before kickoff. Simply have your phone ready with the ticket showing, and the ticket reader will quickly let you into the stadium. Congratulations! Return on Investment 3 Your return on investment at Falcons football game can be greatly enhanced by making some simple choices. Parking in one of the stadium lots can cost you more than $40. Taking the MARTA light rail system to the stadium will cost you $5.00 roundtrip, no matter how far you’ve ridden the system. Choosing items listed on the Family’s First menu costs a family of four less than $40. A concession next door might charge you $15-$20 for just one entrée. Ticket prices start at $40 for upper-level (300-level) seats. Seats on the 100 and 200 level can cost upwards of $150. Frankly, the view from almost anywhere in Mercedes-Benz Stadium is pretty good, plus you have the multiple-story Halo Board showing replays of important plays on a huge screen that is larger than one in a movie theater. You can also save money by attending a game where the opposing team is not a member of the Falcons division or conference. Games against New Orleans and other Division opponents are always more expensive, as the visitor’s fanbase has a relatively easy drive to attend a game. Extras 4 Mercedes-Benz Stadium hosts a wide variety of sports events in addition to serving as the home field/ pitch for the Atlanta Falcons and Atlanta United. There are several NCAA football games on the venue’s calendar, including the Chik-Fil-A Kickoff Classic, the SEC Football Championship Game, the Chik-Fil-A Peach Bowl, and the Celebration Bowl, which pairs the top HBCU team from the MEAC against the top SWAC team. In 2025, the NCAA National Football Championship Game will also be played at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. In 2026 the facility will host several soccer matches during the World Cup competition. The home of the Falcons has also been recognized for its efforts to minimize its carbon footprint and be friendly to the environment. It is the first LEED-certified facility in the NFL. Its efforts to trap rainwater, recycling of materials, and use of composting of leftover food make sure that 90% of waste never makes it to a landfill. Mercedes-Benz Stadium has an above-average collection of art both outside and inside of the venue. The gate closest to State Farm Arena has a four-story steel Falcon sculpture just before you go inside. His wingspan is 64 feet, making him the largest bird sculpture in the world. A second art installation is located near the gate closest to the Home Depot Backyard pregame area. It is a large soccer ball with several mirrored surfaces. It is known as Telstar, and it salutes Atlanta United, the other main tenant at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Once inside you’ll notice paintings, photography, and mixed media along each of the concourses. There are several fan participation activities available both inside and outside of Mercedes-Benz Stadium. The Home Depot Backyard hosts a pregame pep rally, trivia contests, and various sports skills contests on the north side of the stadium. Once inside the stadium, head to the 100-level concourse where you can take part in the run, pass, and kicking activities. There is also a photo opportunity at section 221 with the AT&T fan cam. You can have your photo taken with projected images of Freddie the Falcon, or one of your favorite Falcon players. Final Thoughts Mercedes–Benz Stadium is continually looking for ways it can serve its community while tweaking its game day procedures to improve the fan experience. It has a strong record in this regard, as it annually hosts the SEC Championship game, is in the rotation for the College Football National Championship game, and hosts a Peach Bowl Game on New Year’s Day, it is a serious contender to host one or more World Cup games in 2026.

It is the one that started it all ... Oriole Park @ Camden Yards. Dave and Paul take their beer to the legendary, massively influential ballpark to see if it is still as significant now as it was thirty years ago. Grab a beer and join the trip to Baltimore on the latest episode of Stadium Journey's Obstructed Views. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- You can read Stadium Journey's review of Oriole Park @ Camden Yards and the Baltimore Orioles game day experience here

Photo courtesy of Texas Tech Athletics The funds were part of Texas Tech University’s Campaign for Fearless Champions, which will be used for the completion of the South End Zone and the Dustin R. Womble Football Center at Jones AT&T Stadium . To honor the gift and recognize one of the greatest players in Red Raiders history, the school will name its soon-to-be-completed walk-through area at the center, as well as the quarterback meeting room and offensive coordinator’s office in the new south end zone building, in his honor. Photo courtesy of Texas Tech Athletics “When we first launched this campaign, Patrick was only a freshman and now we should approach the end of the campaign with a gift of his own,” Texas Tech Director of Athletics Kirby Hocutt said in a news release. “We couldn’t be prouder to announce this gift from Patrick and Brittany Mahomes. We are so proud of Patrick for all he has accomplished and how he has continually supported Texas Tech on a global scale.” In just six seasons, Patrick Mahomes has torn through the NFL record books and helped make the Kansas City Chiefs  one of pro football’s premiere franchises. Amid all of Mahomes’ success, however, he has remained a loyal supporter of Texas Tech – in each of the past three seasons, Mahomes has used an open date on the Kansas City schedule to attend one of Tech’s road games, and he also returned to campus in 2022 to be inducted into the Texas Tech Hall of Fame and Ring of Honor. Patrick Mahomes’ co-branded line of apparel with Adidas, featuring the Mahomes Gladiator logo, forged a partnership with Texas Tech and has been made available to students and fans at the university’s stores. He also recently signed six Tech athletes to NIL deals  with his brand. “There isn’t a greater ambassador for Texas Tech Athletics than Patrick Mahomes,” Red Raiders Head Coach Joey McGuire said. “He is arguably the best brand in sports, not only for his success on the field but for what he and his family do off it.” The gift by the Mahomes raised Texas Tech’s fundraising total to $115 million for its projects, surpassing the athletics department’s original goal of $100 million. “Since my hiring here at Texas Tech, it’s been evident to me just how much Patrick truly loves this university and football program, and this gift further emphasizes that,” said McGuire. “On behalf of our entire program, we can’t thank Patrick and Brittany enough for the impact they are making on our student-athletes and the future of Texas Tech football.” ---- Follow Eric Moreno's Stadium Journey on Twitter at @EricMoreno6477 .

Photos by Matt Colville, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.86 Ernest N. Morial Convention Center 900 Convention Center Blvd New Orleans, LA 70130 Nola Pickle Fest website Ernest N. Morial Convention Center website Year Opened: 1984 Capacity: 1,000 Pickleball takes over the Big Easy There's been a steady rise in pickleball in recent years, with some saying it could be the country's fastest-rising sport. In 2023 there were an estimated 36 million people in the country who played pickleball, a mixture between ping pong and tennis. Part of its appeal is its easiness of learning and low startup costs, making it a popular sport for all age groups. Pickleball is an extremely popular sport among the retirement community, with over 52% of the players being 50 and older. One such person who is enjoying his retirement years playing pickleball is former Saints  quarterback Drew Brees, whose first experience with the sport was as a kid at summer camp in Texas – he continued to play throughout his NFL career, even building a court in his backyard in 2018. After retiring in 2021 Brees has become sort of an ambassador for the sport, joining the ownership of Major League Pickleball's Los Angeles Mad Drops. Brees is also involved as a partner with The Picklr, a chain of indoor pickleball facilities, and will be behind a brand new Picklr facility that is scheduled to open in nearby Biloxi, MS, in the fall of 2024. In 2023 Brees took his love for pickleball and began hosting his annual Nola Pickle Fest – held inside Ernest N. Morial Convention Center, it is a four-day festival-style event filled with food, music, vendors, and of course, pickleball. The event benefits the Brees Foundation, which aims to improve the quality of life for cancer patients, as well as provide care, education, and opportunities for children and families in need; Drew Brees and his wife Brittany have raised over $50 million for cancer research since launching the foundation in 2003. Nola Pickle Fest is operated by the Greater New Orleans Sports Foundation, whose mission is managing sporting events that have a positive impact on the greater New Orleans area.   Food and Beverage   3 A festival in New Orleans is bound to have plenty of food options – they bring in three food trucks for the event, as well as have several different pop-up bars. Lucy's Retired Surfer Bar, a popular New Orleans eatery known for its beach theme, brings their coastal beach vibes to Pickle Fest with their food truck, where fish tacos, shrimp po’ boys, and shrimp and grits are just some of the items available for sale. Right next to that, Lillie's Cajun Kitchen food truck is set up offering additional selections of po’ boys and gumbo; make sure you try their signature Cajun Philly Po’ Boy. Everbowl also has a food truck set up selling different acai bowls and smoothies. The food trucks are located towards the back of the hall, however, so are kind of hard to find. Besides the food trucks, Drew Brees-owned Small Sliders, a Louisiana burger chain, also has a tent sent up where they give out samples of their small slider burgers, which are must-haves. There are also several bars scattered around the exhibit hall set up selling cold drinks and beer, and Smirnoff Lounge, a lounge area built in the exhibit hall, even has a table set up selling and offering different Smirnoff products.   Atmosphere   4 The event takes place in the large exhibit halls E & F inside Morial Convention Center – over 30 pickleball courts are brought in and scattered around the floor. The whole event is laid back and relaxed, and on one court you may even see a beginner's class taking place. On another, you may see a match going on between some pros from Major League Pickleball. They have open courts for free play, and they have various tournaments you can sign up for based on various skill and age levels. Drew Brees is also here all day during all four days, walking around mingling with people and taking photos. If you're lucky he may even jump in and play a few pickleball matches with you. Anything pickleball related you'll find it here, as it is one giant pickleball convention. Around the exhibit hall are various vendor booths set up; pickleball companies from all over the country have booths set up where you can try out and buy the latest pickleball products and merchandise. Over on the far east side of the hall is Smirnoff Club, a bar area complete with TVs and couches. In front of that is a large stage for bands, as it wouldn't be an event in New Orleans without live music – the cool thing about the stage is it had a Saints  theme, backdropped with various images of Drew Brees throughout the years. The Greater New Orleans Sports Foundation even had a booth set up promoting the upcoming Super Bowl LIX and recruiting workers for that event, which will be held in New Orleans in February 2025. On the back side of the exhibit hall is a silent auction with assorted sports memorabilia, as well as food trucks, plus a large gaming station where you can play the new NCAA '25 and the new Madden on a big screen. At the center of the exhibit hall is an impressive makeshift pickleball stadium with bleacher seating for 1000, constructed around a professional pickleball court. The court is a Saints -themed black and gold custom set up, with the Saints logo at midcourt – if you want an elevated view of that court, just climb up on one of the three Mardi Gras floats that are brought in to provide seating at one end, while a replica New Orleans streetcar provides the seating on the other side. This is where the big matches are held during the week, and if you make it very far in any of the bracket-style tournaments, you'll get to play a match on the main court. The biggest match that takes place on the main court is the Drew Brees Celebrity Match, held on Saturday afternoon – make sure you get to your seats early for this, as they fill up quickly. For this match Brees will bring out some special guests and play a couple of matches; John McEnroe and Keegan-Michael Key are a few of the special guests he's played with over the two years (so far) of the festival. In 2024 the celebrity match featured Brees and Keegan-Michael Key, playing a few matches and providing live play-by-play of some of the action. There were also a few professional matches as well as some comedy matches, such as when one of the pros played a 90-year-old lady, or anytime Keegan-Michael Key was out there.   Neighborhood   5 Morial Convention Center is located right on the Mississippi River in New Orleans' Warehouse District, just blocks from the French Quarter and the rest of the tourist sites in New Orleans. There's too much to see down here for me to name, but there's so much more to the French Quarter than just Bourbon Street. You'll find some of the best restaurants, off-the-wall museums, and some of the oldest buildings in the country. From Jackson Square to live music on Frenchmen Street and art shops on Royal Street, there truly is not another place like it. I recommend not driving to the French Quarter, as it is close enough to walk to from the convention center, and you could also take a streetcar if you want to venture anywhere outside the Quarter or the Warehouse District. A short 20-minute streetcar ride up the river to the Garden District/Uptown makes for a great visit as well, if you have time. For those who want the authentic New Orleans jazz experience from the neighborhood where jazz music was born, then Treme/Lafitte makes for a great adventure too. In the Warehouse District there are a few attractions worth checking out, some within two blocks of the convention center. For families, there's the Aquarium of the Americas, while for history buffs you can check out the World War II Museum, the largest collection of World War II memorabilia in the country. Or, if you’re into gambling there's a Caesar’s Casino across the street. Also, make sure to take a stroll through Fulton Street Alley to view all the outdoor restaurants and giant bowling alley. The RiverWalk Marketplace, an indoor shopping mall with over 100 different stores, is located on one side of the Morial Convention Center, while on the other side is the famed Mardi Gras World – inside this giant warehouse, you can get a look at how Mardi Gras floats are built. Visitors can walk around the warehouse and view the hundreds of different floats being designed year-round. Mardi Gras World also holds an after-party each night after the pickleball action wraps up, complete with more live music and special guests.   Fans   4 Nola Pickle Fest averages about 1,000 people per day with over 4,000 people attending the four-day event. Saturday draws the biggest crowd during the week, with people wanting to see the celebrity match. The event is also purposely held during August, as it can get unbearably hot here during the summer, so the event occurs during this time as there is not a lot else going on during the summer months. There are competitive bracket-style tournaments taking place, as well as free play on any of the open courts – this event attracts a wide range of people. You'll find the diehard pickleball players who play competitively, as well as the locals who just play for fun. I saw different pickleball groups and people of all ages, from all over the country. The whole event is laid back, as anybody can sign up to play. Saturday is always the most popular day when you'll get professional pickleball players, as well as the people who just want to see Drew Brees and his special guests. As usual, you'll also hear plenty of ‘Who Dats’, as there is a big Saints  theme here. Nobody does festivals like New Orleans, so you'll also find tourists and locals, the latter who just come to Pickle Fest simply for something to do. Even if you know nothing about pickleball, this event makes for a great place to get some air on a hot August day in the French Quarter.   Access   3 Getting to Morial Convention Center may be a little difficult if you are not familiar with navigating the anxiety-driven streets down here. Located near the Mississippi River on the outer edge of the French Quarter, you will have to navigate the many one-way and narrow streets. The best way to get here if coming from out of town is to take I-10 to the I-910 interchange like you are headed to the West Bank, which is across the river. Then take Exit 11 at Tchopitoulas Street, and the convention center is right there. The official parking lot for the event is Lot F, located at 411 Henderson Street – for $23 you can park in this lot all day. If you are staying in the French Quarter or anywhere downtown I would recommend walking to the convention center instead of driving. Once inside the facility for Pickle Fest, you are free to come and go as you please.   Return on Investment   4 The best thing about Nola Pickle Fest is it is free to attend on any of the days, except Saturday, which is the biggest day of the Fest – on Saturdays, it is $10 admission to enter, but you are given a wristband and free to come and go all day. All proceeds go to the Brees Foundation, so you know it's going to a good cause. The official parking lot at the convention center is $23, and you are allowed to park all day. You may also be able to find some cheaper lots in the city, but you'll have to walk longer to get here. I considered this a good return on investment – though the main focus of the event is pickleball, it is so much more than just that, and you are guaranteed to have a good time regardless of whether or not you like the sport. You'll also get to come into contact with one of the greatest quarterbacks to ever play football, as well as see some special guests and celebrities. It's a unique event, one that hopefully will continue in New Orleans for many years to come.   Extras   4 All proceeds from the event benefit the Brees Foundation – since its inception in 2003, the foundation has contributed over $50 million to various causes. You can make donations to the Brees Foundation at a table at the front of the main entrance, on any of the days of the tournament. Morial Convention Center covers almost 11 blocks, with over 1.1 million square feet of space, making it the seventh largest convention center in the country. The building opened as part of the 1984 World's Fair, which was held in New Orleans and was the last World’s Fair to take place in the United States. Ernest M. Morial was the mayor of New Orleans at the time, and if you walk around the grounds you may see some remnants of that world’s fair, such as an old gondola you can eat it in, that once took visitors across the river, located outside Nesbit's Poeyfarre Market across the street from the convention center. You can also see the giant King Neptune sculpture located at the main entrance to Mardi Gras World next door. Another extra for the challenges the building would face after Hurricane Katrina after it was used as a shelter of last resort for over 30,000 refugees who lost their homes in the storm. With limited food and resources, the scene here in the weeks following Katrina was apocalyptic, with robberies, looting, shootings, and assaults taking place inside and outside the convention center. This area has long since recovered, however, and there is a cool little art sculpture of a house in a tree called the Katrina tree, located across the street from Hall F, the main exhibit hall where Nola Pickle Fest takes place.

Photos by Dave Cottenie and Michael Rusiglnuolo, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.43 Mirabito Stadium 211 Henry St Binghamton, NY 13901 Binghamton Rumble Ponies website Mirabito Stadium website Year Opened: 1992 Capacity: 6,012 Welcome to Rumbletown Established as the Williamsport Bills in 1987, the Binghamton Rumble Ponies found their home in Upstate New York in 1992 and became the Double-A affiliate of the New York Mets.  Originally branded as the Binghamton Mets, the team abandoned the parent branding in 2017 and took advantage of a Minor League Baseball landscape where the more unique the identity, the better the situation.  Nodding to the city of Binghamton as the Carousel Capital of the World, a name the team contest yielded the moniker of the Rumble Ponies, referring to the horses found on a carousel.  Binghamton narrowly escaped the 2019 purge of 42 MiLB teams.  During their tenure in Binghamton, the Rumble Ponies have always been affiliated with the New York Mets and members of the Eastern League. Marking the move to Binghamton for the team [possible was the opening of Mirabito Stadium. Known originally as  Binghamton Municipal Stadium from 1992 to 2001 and NYSEG Stadium from 2001 to 2021, the city-owned stadium offers a capacity of over 6,000.  The naming rights were sold to Mirabito Energy Products in 2021.  Food & Beverage 4 The concession scene at Mirabito Stadium is strong.  The Pit Stop concession stands under the grandstand offer burgers, chicken sandwiches, fries, chicken tenders, pizza, nachos popcorn, and pretzels.  A couple of other free-standing concession points are of interest including the Southern Tier Cheesesteak stand and the Carousel Creamery and Lupos stand on the right field side are worth checking out.  Coca-Cola products are the soft drink of choice at Mirabito Stadium and a fairly decent beer selection featuring New Belgium products on tap can be found also.  A couple of signature items that fans should consider include the Grampwich Sandwich, a sausage patty sandwich with cheese, peppers, and onions, and local delicacy Spiedies (pronounced “speedys”).  Overall, there is just enough at Mirabito Stadium to satisfy just about everyone and not be overwhelming. Atmosphere 3 Mirabito Stadium has a bit of a unique exterior with light-colored tiles at the home plate side of the ballpark where the ticket windows can be found.   Attractive wrought iron fencing surrounds the ballpark and huge logos of the Rumble Ponies and New York Mets ensure that passers-by know who plays at the stadium.  A marker of note stands for Bud Fowler, who played for the Binghamton Bingos in 1887 and was one of the first players to integrate professional baseball.  He was also elected to the National Baseball Hall of Fame in 2022. Although entering Mirabito Stadium from the home plate side is an option, many people will enter the right field gate on the east side of the stadium as it is closest to the parking lot.  Both spots have small plazas which are good for meeting spots.  Once fans have entered the ballpark, it begins to show its age a bit.  The main grandstand is a split-level, single bowl with an exterior walkway.  Some of the upper-tier seats are covered with an overhang.  Mirabito Stadium does not offer a 360 path around the ballpark.  Underneath the grandstand, it is fairly dark and does not offer an open view of the field as is found in many other ballparks.  The Rumble Ponies attempt to overcome this shortcoming with a full embracing of their brand and history.  The concourses are littered with Binghamton Rumble Ponies markings including murals with logos and slogans.  Of interest is the Binghamton Baseball Shrine, which is a mural including the royalty of Binghamton baseball, Bud Fowler, Steve Kraly, Thurman Munson, Jason Isringhausen, Whitey Ford and David Wright.  Surrounding the shrine are plaques commemorating the members of the Binghamton Baseball Hall of Fame.  As a longstanding feeder of talent to the New York Mets, many names are recognizable to fans.  Other pillars include banners featuring more recent Rumble Ponies to make it to the Show.  Surprisingly, there was no noticeable sign of one of the most famous members of the Binghamton Rumble Ponies, former Heisman Trophy winner, Tim Tebow.  Mirabito Stadium offers a variety of seating options outside of the regular grandstand.  Bar seating is found on the right field side and high-top tables on the left field side with a pavilion at the back corner of left field.  The right field side of the stadium, near the entry gate, features the kid zone complete with an inflatable play area and Rumble Ponies metal benches for waiting parents. The gameday production in Binghamton is fairly simple.  Mascots Rowdy and Ruby take part in the pregame festivities and can be found interacting with the crowd while the PA announcer chooses some interesting musical selections for visitors walking up.  It is not overproduced and not lacking, a good balance for fans.  Mirabito Stadium also offers an interesting backdrop with fans able to view passing trains from the railyard immediately north of the stadium and the rolling mountains beyond right field. Neighborhood 3 Mirabito Stadium is located on the edge of Downtown Binghamton, between the Susquehanna and Chenango Rivers.  With a modest population of over 47,000, Binghamton does not have the most interesting of downtowns, but there are a few options for pre and post-game food and drink including Station 45 American Chop House, AMICI, Little Venice, Burger Monday, River Bistro and Rolando’s Diner.  There are a couple of other sporting options in Binghamton.  The Binghamton Bearcats  of SUNY Binghamton, aka Binghamton University, play basketball on campus.  The Bearcats  also play baseball and other NCAA sports.  The school boasts Tony Kornheiser of ESPN’s Pardon The Interruption as an alumnus.  Formerly an AHL city, Binghamton now offers the Black Bears of the FPHL.  Other tourist options in Binghamton include Phelps Mansion Museum, Ross Park Zoo, or finding one of the city’s numerous carousels, possibly the one at Rec Park.  For fans wishing to stay near the ballpark, the Holiday Inn and DoubleTree are good options. Fans 3 There is room for improvement when it comes to Binghamton Rumble Ponies attendance.  In the 2023 season, the Binghamton Rumble Ponies averaged over 3,100 fans per game.  This ranked 73rd in all of Minor League Baseball and more specifically 11th in the 12-team Eastern League.  The fans in attendance at the game reviewed were pretty quiet and reserved.  It must be noted that the game reviewed was an early weekday game including a makeup doubleheader.  Attendance, as expected, spikes for the weekend, however, there is still plenty of room for improvement.   Access 4 Mirabito Stadium is located in Downtown Binghamton, between the Chenango and Susquehanna Rivers, at the corner of Henry Street and Fayette Street.  It is south of I-86 and west of Highway 363 and not difficult to get to.  There is plenty of parking on-site, which can be had for a nominal cost.  For fans wishing to take public transit, there are buses on Chenango Street.  Fans should consult the Broome County Transit  website for fares, maps, and schedules.  Getting around the ballpark is not too difficult, although a big crowd could make moving under the grandstand could be more difficult.  Washroom facilities are acceptable for the fans in attendance. Stadium Journey recommends checking the Binghamton Rumble Ponies  website for the most up-to-date security info including prohibited items, gate opening times, and security protocols. Return on Investment 4 The Binghamton Rumble Ponies experience is very affordable.  Tickets for the Rumble Ponies run from $11 for the cheapest seats, up to $25 for the first row in the grandstand.  Concession prices are what one would expect and parking is a nominal $5.  The Rumble Ponies provide a solid environment for baseball and the Eastern League at the Double-A level provides, arguably, the best prospects for Minor League Baseball. Extras 3 An extra mark for the unique theme of the Rumble Ponies with the local ties to the Carousel Capital of the World. An extra mark for the display of team history found at Mirabito Stadium. An extra mark for the long-standing affiliation the Rumble Ponies enjoy with the New York Mets. Final Thoughts A trip to Upstate New York and the Binghamton Rumble Ponies is a great way to take in some Minor League Baseball.  Mirabito Stadium offers a solid facility for baseball.  There is plenty of fun in Rumbletown. Follow all of Dave’s sporting adventures on YouTube , Twitter , Threads  and Instagram @profan9.

Photos by Andrei Ojeda, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.71 Angel Stadium 2000 Gene Autry Way Anaheim, CA 92806 Map It Los Angeles Angels website Angel Stadium website Year Opened: 1966 Capacity: 45,050 Calling All Angels Opened for service in 1966, Angel Stadium is the 4th oldest active baseball yard. Still nicknamed The Big A, the moniker came about due to the A-shaped scoreboard topped with a “halo” that was originally placed behind the left field fence. Many greats have donned an Angel uniform:  Nolan Ryan, Don Baylor, Rod Carew, Reggie Jackson, Tim Salmon, Vladimir Guerrero, Shohei Ohtani, and Mike Trout. The stadium’s expansion in 1980 to accommodate the arrival of the Rams would find the Big A moving to the parking lot by the 57 Freeway. The stadium’s return to its baseball-only format brought about fan sentiment returning the Big A to its original left field location. Team officials also considered but cited costs for not moving back the Big A. The Big A remains in the parking lot by the freeway and continues providing passing vehicles information and advertisements. Food & Beverage 4 If you arrive hungry at Angel Stadium, there are ample options though uninspiring. Cheese and pepperoni pizza slices from Oggi’s Pizza and other selections from Chronic Taco, Jersey Mike’s Subs, Crafty Dogs, and fan favorite Cathy’s Cookies are among the options available . Another solid stop on the food exploration tour is La Rotisserie, featuring their famous herb rotisserie half-chicken meals. Various bars are also located around the stadium, including the Ketel One Botanical Bar along the outer concourse, featuring drink specials throughout the season. Standard beer choices range from Coors and Budweiser brand drinks. Traditional ballpark favorites such as hot dogs, burgers, peanuts, and Coke brand soft drinks round out the complete list of options throughout the stadium. Atmosphere 4 As fans approach the home plate entrance, they are greeted by two oversized helmets. In between the helmets are bricks outlining a regulation-size infield with a pitcher’s mound exactly 60 feet 6 inches from home plate. The walls inside Angel Stadium are adorned with various images of Angels players, both present and past. Fan shops are located throughout all the various sections of the stadium, and the main concourse wraps around the outfield as well, offering fans a great view of the action from the outfield. In the center field, the waterfall feature, when operable depending on the local water situation, flows during games over a rock formation in the shape of an “A” that harkens to California’s natural wonders. During late-game situations when the team needs to rally, the ever-infamous Rally Monkey appears on the big screen to get fans pumped up. Rally Monkey, Photo by Andrei Ojeda, Stadium Journey Neighborhood 3 While the area around Angel Stadium isn’t exactly known for stellar pre-gaming, it has evolved over the past few years into a place that fans can go to and still have a good time. Nearby on State College, a TownePlace Suites is there for fans who are traveling just for the game and want to stay close to the action. Karl Strauss Brewing Company and Lazy Dog are located nearby for pre or post-game dining. Downtown Disney is a short drive from the stadium offering a variety of dining and shopping options. Inside Downtown Disney guests can also view the nightly fireworks display that takes place inside Disneyland during the summer months. Fans 3 The fans at Los Angeles Angels games are among the most welcoming in baseball. Times have been rough for fans under the halo. With the team not experiencing a post-season win since 2009, a playoff appearance since 2014, and a winning season since 2015, Angels fans have not had much reason to come out in droves as in seasons past. Despite the team’s struggles the Angels remain   in the middle of the pack  averaging just over 30,000 a game. Access 4 Angel Stadium is located off the 57 Freeway connecting with most major freeways and the nearby 5. While traffic in and around the stadium isn’t as bad as the famously terrible traffic jams in Los Angeles, it helps to be prepared for the worst. If driving from Los Angeles you may want to leave at least three hours before the first pitch. Southern California traffic is brutal, particularly during rush hour. Once you get to the stadium, parking is plentiful all around the venue, and fans can also take advantage of the transportation options from the nearby Anaheim Regional Transportation Intermodal Center . As you prepare to enter the stadium you will be happy to know that advanced metal detectors have been installed outside each entrance that allow fans to walk through without having to stop to empty their pockets or have other belongings checked unless you hear the warning sound go off. This is a much-welcomed convenience that every major venue should use. Return on Investment 4 As the Halos struggles continue, tickets can be found on 3rd party sites such as TickPick for as low as $3. Otherwise, box office prices are still a bargain starting at $7 for upper deck sections. For games that may include specific giveaways such as bobbleheads, tickets are still a bargain starting at $15, making an outing for an Angels game one of the most affordable in the league. With the Halos continuing to struggle on the field, games for even prime opponents such as the Yankees, Red Sox, and even the Dodgers have become affordable with prices starting as low as $15.  Extras 4 Fans entering from the main gate behind home plate can catch a glimpse of the team’s 2002 World Series trophy on display inside the entrance to the team store behind the field-level seating.  Other exhibits featuring individual and team accomplishments over the years can also be viewed in the field and terrace level concourse behind home plate. The center field waterfall also features pyrotechnics that go off during player introductions and after home runs scored by the Angels. The stadium also features various theme nights and giveaways throughout the year for fans to get involved, and the bricks outside the grand entrance are arranged in the shape of a baseball infield, creating a unique photo spot for fans. Final Thoughts Greetings from SoCal, Photo by Andrei Ojeda, Stadium Journey Due to recent issues between the City of Anaheim and Angels owner Arte Moreno, plans to turn over ownership of Angel Stadium to the team owner are dead. Perhaps possibly into the foreseeable future, do not expect any entertainment and housing developments surrounding the Big A. While the City of Anaheim and the Angels  continue to work out their differences and a state audit is looming ,  for the time being, the Angels will remain through at least 2029 with opt-out options through 2038. Angel Stadium is the 4th oldest yard in the bigs behind Fenway Park, Wrigley Field, and Dodger Stadium. It has gone through its share of changes. From being enclosed in 1979 to accommodate the Rams to its return to its current form as a baseball-only park, compared to other yards of the post-Camden era, Angel Stadium could use some updates. Though showing its age, Angel Stadium is still quite serviceable. Yes, it lacks the bells and whistles of most present-day yards and you won’t find any pre and post-game entertainment options within the vicinity such as those in Atlanta and St. Louis. While Angel Stadium lacks most of the present-day amenities beyond the on-field action, its size makes sure that you’re never too far from the action. As the season winds down and the Halos struggles continue, this is a great time for ballpark travelers to catch a game or two without adding further damage to your travel budget.

Photos by Chris Green, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.00 Canadian Tire Motorsport Park 3233 Concession Road 10 Bowmanville, ON L1C 3K6 Canada Canadian Tire Motorsports Park website Year Opened: 1961 Capacity: 100,000 Canadian Sportscar Madness Canadian Tire Motorsport Park (also known as Mosport) is one of the best-known race courses in Canada, and indeed around the world. The fast, sweeping turns at the facility were created for Formula One’s golden days of speed, and the facility hosted the Canadian Grand Prix multiple times throughout the 1960s and 70s. The 2.459-mile circuit is a beacon for the North American racing fan, and features some of the best camping around, while also featuring some incredible on-track action. The annual summer visit from IMSA provides a great weekend of sportscar racing for fans in the True North.   Food & Beverage   4 The food options at Canadian Tire Motorsport Park are pretty standard, including burgers, fries, and chicken. There are also various food trucks on site throughout the weekend, and local vendors featuring fresh grilled burgers, kabobs, and BBQ. Drinks are also varied, featuring soda and energy drinks, as well as the best in Canadian beer. The best part about the food here is that the food booths and vendors are located all around the facility, as opposed to being in just one centralized area. As some of the portions of the track are a bit of a walk from others, this helps those fans who care to venture to the farthest edges, but don’t want to have to walk a mile back to the paddock for a snack.   Atmosphere   5 Fans at Mosport are among the best in racing, as they camp out from the opening of the gates on Day 1 all the way through the final checkered flag of the weekend – the hillsides at Canadian Tire Motorsport Park are filled with campers and tents as far as the eye can see. The track itself is nestled in the countryside an hour east of Toronto proper, meaning you don’t feel the hustle and bustle of city life, but instead can enjoy comfortable relaxation in and among the forests of Ontario. But for a race fan the energy is not lost here either, meaning you get the best of both worlds. The explosion of IMSA’s attendance in recent years has also led to an increase in fans at the event, as nearly every open space is used for parking on Sunday. A flyover for the main WeatherTech Series race features vintage Canadian warbirds, and fan zone activations are plentiful for fans.   Neighborhood   3 Outside the main gates, you’re greeted with beautiful green rolling hills with sprawling farmland all around. However, this also means there isn’t really much around Canadian Tire Motorsport Park, and the nearest towns are a good 20 to 30-minute drive from the venue; Oshawa and Bowmanville are the closest towns where you can find food, shopping, and lodging. The good news is that both of those areas are rapidly expanding, with homes now only a few miles away from the circuit, where once was only farmland. Favorite food stops include the Crooked Uncle in Oshawa and Chanterelle Bistro in Bowmanville. Holiday Inn Express & Suites Clarington-Bowmanville and Best Western Plus Bowmanville are your two closest hotels. For viewing the sights, Clarington Family Outdoor Adventure Park and Ehrenwort Hiking Trail at Camp 30 are the most popular outdoor activities for visitors.   Fans   5 Fans at Canadian Tire Motorsport Park are the best Canada has to offer – not only do you get to experience some motorsport-knowledgeable fans, but you also get to see them at their rowdiest (or at least the Canadian equivalent) during the race weekend. They know how to party and know where the best places to watch from are, and best of all, they really are as polite and welcoming as you would expect. Most fans here also come to the track throughout the year to see all the different races – whether they’re looking to catch IMSA or NASCAR Pinty’s Series, you will see them pack into the circuit.   Access   3 Getting to Canadian Tire Motorsport Park is a bit of a drag, as the main highways aren’t anywhere near the track. However, thanks to the continuing construction eastward of toll highway 407 finally having reached the track, you can now get right to the track’s area without having to take too many country roads. The track itself is off highway 20, aka Boundary Road, which you can get to from the east via Regional Road 115, or from the west via Regional Road 57. Once at the track parking is plentiful, as is camping. Plus, a ticket will get you into the facility and also includes free parking.   Return on Investment   4 The cost of admission at Canadian Tire Motorsport Park is very much worth it when you consider you are getting a top-notch racing experience at the track. You also get to take in some quality racing at one of the most popular tracks in North America, that has been steeped in history for years. And while getting to the track may be a bit of a drive, as it is an hour east of Toronto without traffic, the escape of going to a race in the beautiful Canadian countryside is definitely worth the trek.   Extras   4 Canadian Tire Motorsport Park recently remodeled their main office building, which now includes several suites and hospitality areas. In addition, fans are able to get up close to the teams, as entrance into the paddock is included with your ticket. Victory Lane is located right in the middle of the paddock, meaning fans can celebrate with the winners after each race. Also, most fans take to the track during race weekends at night, walking the circuit and enjoying the evening on the track itself, something not many other tracks allow you to experience.   Final Thoughts If you want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, watch some quality motor racing at a historic track that offers the beauty of the Canadian countryside, and has plenty of options for viewing the action itself, Canadian Tire Motorsport Park is the best option for you. The fans are great, the camping is top notch, and the racing is fast.

This week the podcast crew counts down the ballparks of the Frontier League. Which one comes out on top according to our FANFARE score? Which ballparks come up short on their gameday experience? How about the new ballparks in New Jersey and New England? __________________________________________________________________________________ Audio versions of the Stadium Journey podcast can be found by searching HIAC Talk Radio   wherever you look for your favorite podcasts. Video simulcasts of all the Stadium Journey podcasts can be found on Stadium Journey's YouTube page .  Join us live as we record every other Monday on our social media streaming channels.

Photos by Dave Cottenie, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.71 Fergie Jenkins Field at Rotary Park 30 Tweedsmuir Avenue West Chatham, ON N7M 2A4 Chatham-Kent Barnstormers website Rotary Park website Year Opened: circa1950/2010 Capacity: 1,100 Barnstorming Baseball Chatham, Ontario is the home of Baseball Hall of Fame pitcher Ferguson Jenkins.  Arguably the greatest Canadian baseball player ever, Jenkins’ mark on his hometown is significant.  His link to Chatham baseball is even deeper as his father played for the 1934 Chatham Coloured All-Stars, which became the first black baseball team to win the Ontario baseball championship. In 2024, baseball in Chatham kicked it up a notch with its entry into the Intercounty Baseball League; the Chatham-Kent Barnstormers.  The name Barnstormers harkens back to the days of Babe Ruth when the off-season of Major League Baseball saw the biggest stars go on “barnstorming” tours, bringing baseball to smaller towns throughout the country.  Owned by Dom Dinelle and Matt Nahdee, the team has enjoyed success on and off the field in its first season. Home for the Barnstormers is Fergie Jenkins Field at Rotary Park.  Originally opened in the fifties, Fergie Jenkins Field, as it is now known, has undergone significant improvements making it more of an appropriate field for the league.  The original grandstand was razed in 1984 and the current one was constructed in 2010.. There are several aspects of the operation this season that have proven to be successful, however, there are also bumps that the bus has taken in the inaugural season. Food & Beverage 2 The concession scene at Rotary Park is at the very least confusing.  The menu includes hot dogs, burgers, soda, popcorn, ice cream, and sunflower seeds.  Concessions are run on a ticket system rather than having specific prices.  Tickets are purchased near the admission tent, and patrons must line up to redeem their tickets for whatever concession item they wish.  Items can be purchased for anywhere from 1 to 3 tickets.  Alcohol tickets are purchased separately and can be redeemed for beer or wine. Atmosphere 3 Fergie Jenkins Field is located in Rotary Park and offers decent grounds for baseball but has some limitations.  The main grandstand is a brown brick structure, which looks like it has been upgraded from a previous structure.  The covered grandstand offers bleacher seating with backs behind the plate.  These are reserved seats and sold as season tickets.  Aluminum bleachers on either side of the main grandstand round out the seating which totals around 800.  There is ample space behind the main grandstand for gathering but not much on the baselines.  The placement of the bullpens beside the dugouts behind the fence reduces the space for seating and produces terrible sightlines for those not seated in the grandstand or bleachers.  The fieldhouse and headquarters of Chatham Minor Baseball along with Kiwanis Stadium, a local soccer facility past centrefield, make the park dimensions rather odd with an extremely short porch in right field. The park has some attractive decor.  Decorative rocks commemorating Fergie Jenkins, the 1934 Chatham Coloured All-Stars, and Rotary Club are found in the well-maintained flowerbeds behind the first base side.  Large posters of Fergie Jenkins and Chatham native Bill Atkinson are also found on the brick exterior. The Barnstormers do their part to build the gameday atmosphere.  Live music is played before each game behind the grandstand and there are plenty of promotions between innings.  The Barnstormers “Animation Crew” provides entertainment as well, although they were not prevalent during the game that was reviewed.  It appears that the Barnstormers are finding a happy medium between the over-the-top Savannah Bananas philosophy and some of the older IBL teams. Neighbourhood 3 Rotary Park is located in a residential area in central Chatham.  For fans wishing to get some pre or post-game food, Mike’s Place and Frick’s Fish and Chips are a close walk.  Otherwise, hopping in the car and heading toward downtown might be a better option.  Sons of Kent Brewery, Centro Wood Fired Kitchen, and Mamma Maria’s may be interesting local options.  Rotary Park is also located near Chatham Memorial Arena which is home to the Chatham Maroons of the GOJHL.  The Chatham-Kent Museum may also be a tourist spot of interest.  The Holiday Inn beside Cascades Casino may be a good choice for those wishing to stay in town. Fans 4 It is difficult to assess fans in the IBL as most teams do not publish their attendance figures.  That being said, the game that was was sold out as the seating was at capacity.  Fans in attendance are into the game.  Unfortunately, the park does not adequately accommodate the number of fans in attendance and many are left unhappy about the seating and sightline situation.  It will be curious to see how attendance changes after the inaugural season.   Access 2 Rotary Park is almost 4 km north of Highway 401, the major artery through Southern Ontario.  It is also 4 km west of Highway 40.  The ballpark is not that difficult to get to and traffic should not be an issue. There are parking spaces along Tweedsmuir Ave, but most of the parking should be found at the Chatham Memorial Arena.  There is a bus that goes to Rotary Park for fans who wish to take public transit to the game.  The Ride CK  website should be consulted for fares, maps, and schedules. Inside the park, it can be a bit challenging to get around.  Although there are some permanent washroom facilities, there are several portable facilities on site.  The seating area is not overly conducive for fans with mobility issues but is not awful.  The seating is insufficient for the number of fans in attendance and should be addressed.  The main grandstand was all reserved for season ticket holders and the bleachers on the third base side were also completely reserved.  The bullpens significantly hinder sightlines and the grass seating beside the bullpens makes for poor sightlines.  The Barnstormers website does list lawn chairs as a banned item, however, numerous fans who could not find a spot in the grandstand brought lawn chairs in.  Concession lines are significant and the system of purchasing concessions is confusing for those who are not regulars.  Overall, the Barnstormers and Municipality of Chatham-Kent need to address these shortcomings in subsequent seasons. Return on Investment 3 Tickets for a Barnstormers game cost $12 for adults with discounts for seniors and children.  Packages with concessions can also be purchased.  Seats are listed as General Admission, but a full explanation as to the reserved nature of the grandstand is not present on the Barnstormers website.  Parking is free and concession prices are decent but confusing.  The Barnstormers do what they can to provide a solid gameday production, however, the poor sightlines and lack of seating can leave fans with a sour taste in their mouths. Extras 2 An extra mark for the nod to the history of the Chatham Coloured All-Stars and the historic “Barnstormer” name, which is a bit of a throwback to baseball generations ago. An extra mark for Fergie Jenkins, who is undoubtedly Chatham’s favourite son. Final Thoughts The inaugural season for the Chatham-Kent Barnstormers has endured some bumps in the road and some of the issues at Fergie Jenkins Field must be addressed. ---- Follow all of Dave’s sporting adventures on YouTube , Twitter , Threads  and Instagram @profan9.

Photos by Meg Minard, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.43 Wilson Park 1007 Solano Ave Vallejo, CA 94590 Map It Vallejo Seaweed website Wilson Park website Year Opened: 1975 (an educated guess) Capacity: 900 Exploring Pecos League Baseball in Vallejo CA The Vallejo Seaweed are a member of the independent Pecos League and play their baseball games at Wilson Park in Vallejo, CA (a little over 30 miles northeast of San Francisco).  Wilson Park is city-owned, and the Greater Vallejo Park, Recreation, & Open Space Foundation maintains the park.  The park also has youth ballfields, a children’s play area with a jungle gym, and shaded picnic areas.  You will frequently see dog walkers along its paths.  The Babe Ruth League (youth baseball) also plays games at Wilson Park. The Vallejo Seaweed played as the Santa Cruz Seaweed in 2021 and 2022.   They moved to Vallejo in 2023 and are playing their second season at Wilson Park in 2024.  The Vallejo Seaweed has not yet been in the postseason.  They battled for a spot in the conference finals this 2024 season but didn’t quite make it. Food & Beverage 2 One sad-looking concession stand sells basic stadium fare:  hot dogs, nachos, chips, ice cream, and sunflower seeds ($2 - $5).  Canned beer (Coors Light, Bud Light, Modelo, Michelob Ultra, and Heineken) sells for $5.  Canned Coke, Diet Coke, Sprite, and bottled water costs $2.  It’s enough for a snack. Atmosphere 3 The stadium has three sections (14 rows each) of old dark blue wooden bleachers with two sets of handrails in the main seating area behind home plate.  The venue has a welcome feature - some portable seatbacks for fans.  The steps are very steep.  Those uneasy on their feet should choose the first or second row.  Additional sets of bleachers  lay  beyond each dugout.  The grandstand is covered, though you will get some sun during the first few innings. A thick chain link fence surrounds the entire field.  A simple dot matrix scoreboard in left field displays the line score, balls, strikes, and outs.  Trees adorn the outfield.  The batter’s eye is trees. The announcer calls the starting lineup nice and slow.  Fans keeping score can complete their scorecards unrushed.  Irritatingly, the music person plays tunes over the PA announcements, so those who keep score must strain hard to hear the names. The home side is third base. The Pecos League has two umpires.  It has a ‘pass the hat’ for fans to drop in a few bucks after a player hits a home run.  Players in this league get paid a pittance.  All the funds from the ‘passing of the hat’ go to the player to help with expenses.  One unique aspect of a Pecos League game is that the pitchers bat. Remember to bring a sweatshirt or jacket as it can get chilly when the sun sets. Neighborhood 3 The baseball park is two miles from the downtown area of Vallejo.   You can enjoy a meal at Provisions (breakfast, lunch, and California beer - this restaurant closes at 4 pm except on Fridays when it stays open until 8 pm) or Bambinos Vallejo (Italian).  A mile north of downtown, on the Napa River, enjoy The Sardine Can (seafood). Try the Mare Island Brewing Co. – Ferry Taproom or the recently opened Vallejo Brewing Company (open for business Thurs – Sun) for local breweries. The biggest tourist attraction in Vallejo is the Six Flags Discovery Kingdom.  Visitors can experience the educational Vallejo Naval & Historical Museum , right downtown.  The San Francisco Bay Ferry (passengers only) stops in Vallejo.  If you like ferry rides, this activity is something to check out.  Vallejo is on the southern border of Napa Valley and Suisun Valley.  Many vineyards, wineries, and tasting rooms are within a 10-mile drive.  I went to the Wooden Valley Winery , and it was delightful.  The staff even enjoy talking baseball!! There are no hotels near the ballpark.  You’ll find plenty along I-80 over a mile away.  Other sports to see when in the area include the San Francisco Giants , Oakland Athletics (until the end of 2024), and other Pecos League teams (the San Rafael Pacifics and the Martinez Sturgeon ). Fans 2 Attendance is small but mighty.  About 35 – 40 fans (including dogs) attended the game of this review.  The fans (human) heartily cheer on their team. The crowd is fun.  There’s a good rapport between the PA announcer and the regular fans.  He calls on regular visitors by name to ring their bell.  Access 3 There is no need to get to a Seaweed game early, as the team operations are still in the process of setting up 30 minutes before the first pitch. The closest commercial airport is San Francisco Bay Oakland International Airport (OAK), about 35 miles south.  Fans in the Bay Area can take the BART (red line) to El Cerrito Del Norte, catch the El Cerrito Del Norte BART Express bus to Curtola Park & Ride, and walk ½ mile to the park. Upon entry, the team does not have a security check or bag rules.  Coolers are not permitted. The stadium has bathrooms.  Bring some extra tissues, in case they’re out. I learned the hard way. The steps are steep; the facility does not look that conducive to fans with physical impairments. Return on Investment 3 Parking is free; entry is $10 for general admission (sit wherever you like).  Concessions are an affordable $2 - $5.  It is an inexpensive evening out.  . Extras 1 The Pecos League is the only league that does not use a designated hitter, following the 2019 National League rules with the pitcher hitting. Final Thoughts It’s mostly about the baseball game in Vallejo, not a lot of other bells and whistles.  It’s an affordable night out to hear the crack of the bat and see the rise of dust as an infielder fields a ground ball or when a player slides into base.  Veteran purist baseball fans should enjoy the experience at Wilson Park.

Photos by Meg Minard, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.00 Joe Baumann Stadium 900 Block E Poe Roswell, NM 88201 Roswell Invaders website Joe Bauman Stadium website Year Opened: 1939 Renovated: 2005 Capacity: 410 Alien Baseball The cleverly named Roswell Invaders baseball team plays their home game at Joe Bauman Stadium in Roswell, NM. The Invaders are charter members of the independent Pecos League of Professional Baseball. Both the team and the league were founded in 2011. The Invaders have been successful, winning the Pecos League Championships in 2011, 2013, and 2015. Joe Bauman Stadium Coca Cola Field (locals refer to it as Coca Cola Field – no dash). The stadium is named after Joe Bauman, who set a professional record with 72 home runs in 1954 while playing for the Roswell Rockets of the Class-C Longhorn League. It is adjacent to the Eastern New Mexico State Fairgrounds about 2 ½ miles south of downtown Roswell. Originally built in 1939, the city renovated the stadium’s grandstand in 2005. Though seating capacity is somewhat smaller than other Pecos League ballparks, the stadium fits well in Roswell and for the Invaders. The field is shared with the Roswell High School baseball team. Food & Beverage 3 One concession stand sits beneath the announcer and official team office directly behind the home plate grandstand. It offers basic snacks like burritos, nachos, hot dogs, Frito pie, and pizza ($4 – $5). Other goodies sold are chips, ice pops, seeds, and candy for $2. Bottled water and beverages are $2 or $3. Adult beverages include 7K IPA (Santa Fe Brewing), Big Luau Cider (Black Cock Brewery), Cerveza Lager, and Electric Igloo Lemonade all $6 for 16 oz. The stand closes early; so get your food at least before the 5th inning. Fans can bring in their own sodas and snacks. Atmosphere 3 An Invaders game provides a low-key, local, welcoming impression where the focus is still more on the game than other extra activities. For seating, be sure to bring a cushion to sit on as all seats are bleachers. Three sets of bleachers line the infield. These were rebuilt in 2005. The section behind the home plate has backs, handrails, and wheelchair spots. The two on each side of the infield diamond are just benches. Some fans bring their own portable chairs for a more comfortable seat. Thick nets cover all three seating areas. The sun sets behind the grandstand so is not really a factor when deciding where to sit. Game day staff plays music, sometimes (but not all the time) deafening load. So your ear drums don’t get ruptured, sit on either of the side bleacher sections as those are farther from the speakers. Theme songs from the X Files and other extraterrestrial TV shows and movies are aptly disbursed throughout the innings. Walk-up songs are played for the Invaders. Thankfully, the person in charge of music does not play noise or music between pitches; just between innings. And, for the most part, music isn’t played when the announcer is speaking. The PA announcer’s voice is clear. He calls the starting lineup slowly – slow enough for fans to keep up writing out their own scorecard. Nice job. Roster sheets are not available to the general public. The field causes lots of skips and hops of the ball in the infield. Dust rises off gloves and at plates during plays. The scoreboard rests behind the center-right field wall. It shows the basic line score, runs, hits, and errors. Activities involving fans are offered between innings but not the game of this review. Note: Some Pecos League games can be long. The game Stadium Journey attended lasted 4 ½ hours for nine innings of play. It was so long, the sprinkler system automatically came on and individuals had to run and find the shut off valve. Actually, that was pretty funny. Neighborhood 3 Roswell got its name on the map because of an alleged 1947 UFO crash on a ranch outside the town and the follow up conspiracy. Therefore, much of the downtown businesses focus on UFOs and space aliens. A UFO Festival generally takes place around July 4 in Roswell, so fans can check out the festival and see a game if the schedule allows. The most popular destination is the UFO Museum and Research Center. Next is a short, fun, black light walk-through of alien art work; a spacewalk of sorts called Roswell UFO Spacewalk. Visit the McDonalds, shaped like a spaceship with a space-themed interior. Take a few minutes to visit the Visitors Center in town. It’s a worthy resource center on things to see and do. Peppers Grill and Bar is a recommended place for food and drinks and is just a block from the Visitors Center. Los Cerritos Mexican Kitchen comes highly recommended and serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Plenty of hotels of various brands line Main St. I stayed at the Baymont Suites and though not walking distance, it is cheap, clean and safe. All of the activities and ‘things to do’ are less than five miles driving distance to/from the ballpark. Fans 3 The Roswell Invaders fans are welcoming and friendly. Families, children, host families, retirees, parents, and more make up the crowd. There is not a lot of them. A few fans ring cowbells when the team makes a good play. Many attendees seem to know each other. Most wear Invaders gear and clothing. They throw out their own trash, not often seen at ballparks. Access 3 Once in town, getting to the ballpark is not difficult. Use Roe Rd off S Main St. The ballpark and a hard-dirt parking lot are on the right. Parking is free. After parking, enter the grounds through an open fence; a small ticket booth is on the right. A paved path leads to the stands and a wide promenade is between the bleachers and the infield wall making it easy to move around. Cement block restrooms are serviceable but I wouldn’t call them nice, though they are clean. Roswell has a small airport (Roswell Air Center) with a limited number of flights in and out of Dallas/Ft Worth and Phoenix. A local bus service is available but it looks like transit times are not conducive to the baseball schedule. Return on Investment 3 A single game ticket is $7.50. Group events offer lower priced tickets. Parking is free and the concession prices are quite reasonable. Extras 3 Several other items are worth noting: A hard copy ticket with the Roswell Invaders logo on it is still given out. The team uses lime green bases for first, second, and third. Pretty cool in keeping with the alien theme. The players interact well with the crowd and in the community. Two members greet fans as they enter the stadium. They walk the stands chatting with visitors and selling raffle tickets for an autographed bat (per se). The players participate in events like a car wash where proceeds are split with the Special Olympics. Final Thoughts If in Roswell, NM visiting UFO and alien-related items during June and July, make an effort to head to Joe Bauman Stadium to catch a relaxed, entertaining baseball game.

Photos by Meg Minard, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.29 Waterfront Park 1204 Joe DiMaggio Dr Martinez, CA  94553 Map It Martinez Sturgeon website Waterfront Park website Year Opened: Unknown Renovated: 2018 Capacity: 360 Go Fish Marinez, CA, the birthplace of the late New York Yankee Joe DiMaggio, hosts the independent Pecos League of Professional Baseball team Martinez Sturgeon.  The team formed just a few seasons ago, beginning play in 2021.  Its inaugural season was supposed to be 2020, but the pandemic halted that. The Sturgeon won the Pacific Division Semifinals in 2021 but lost in the conference championship.  Two former major league pitchers (Ron Witmeyer and Manny Corpus) were team managers. The Sturgeon play their home games on Field Three at the city’s popular Waterfront Park. ­­­­ The park hosted the 2024 Pecos League Pacific Division All-Star Game.  It is also a favorite spot for other sports with horseshoe pits, softball fields, bocce ball courts, soccer fields, and a skate park.  Families can picnic here and go fishing. The Martinez Clippers of the Pacific Association of Baseball played at Waterfront Park in 2018.  The city of Martinez canceled the Clippers lease because of the team's ownerships fraudulent investment schemes. Food & Beverage 2 One concession stand is open during Sturgeon games.  The park has a shaded picnic area in front of the concession stand.  The menu offers hot dogs, nachos, and brats $5 - $7.  It sells snacks of candy, popcorn, peanuts, pistachios, cookies, and chips for $2 - $3.  Drinks include water, Coke, Diet Coke, Sprite, Gatorade, and Orange Soda ($2).  Canned beers offered are Michelob Ultra, Stella, 805, Five Suns, Del Cielo, and White Claw ($5 - $7).  Not every listing on the menu is available for every game, so choices are limited.   Atmosphere 3 The Martinez Sturgeon offers a pleasant game day experience.  The City of Martinez renovated Field Three at Waterfront Park in 2017 for the Martinez Clippers of the Pacific Association. The seats consist mostly of metal bleachers with no backs.  Bring a cushion.  The venue has three rows of green chairbacks behind home plate that look to be reserved for season ticket holders.  The seating is wheelchair accessible with an easy-to-maneuver ramp up to the first base side bleachers.  The seats behind home plate and the third base side get the shade.  The first base side is in the sun but has a better view beyond the ballpark.  Additional bleachers extend beyond the first base stand with no net overhead.  A netting protects fans in front and above the seating areas.    Waterfront Park Reserved Seats, Photo by Meg Minard, Stadium Journey Sit in the first base stands (if the temperature is not too hot) to see ships pass beyond left field, and for a view of the Benicia Bridge over center and right fields. Right field has the US flag and the scoreboard, just to the left of the foul pole.  The scoreboard is a basic dot matrix with the line score.  It is not easy to read in the early innings with the sun. A female announcer calls the game well.  Unfortunately, the music person plays tunes while she’s announcing, so you can’t always hear what is said.   The team holds a 50/50 contest.  If a fan gets a foul ball, they can return it and get candy.  The entire fan base sang Happy Birthday to another fan who just turned 92 at the game I attended.  One feels a sense of strong community ties at these games. Neighborhood 4 Martinez, CA, is near the San Francisco Bay area, about a 40-minute drive northeast.   Waterfront Park is a half mile from Martinez’s vibrant downtown, where visitors can find all kinds of food, shopping, and drinking.  Recommended places to eat:  Breakfast or lunch:  Sal’s Family Kitchen, Copper Skillet Courtyard Lunch or dinner: Lemongrass Bistro (Asian), Roxx on Main, Vic’s, Luigi's Deli (sandwiches) Local breweries:  Five Suns Brewery and Del Cielo, though the city has plenty of other bars and places for adult drinks.  Click here for a more complete list.  Other tourist choices include the John Muir National Historic Site, the Martinez Museum, the Viano Winery, and the California Magic Dinner Theatre.  If you’re there on a Sunday, visit the Farmer’s Market downtown for local produce, goods, and people-watching. Downtown Martinez does not have any lodging.  A few miles away is a Best Western Jon Muir (I stayed here; it is comfortable, safe, and reasonable), a Motel 6, and a Super 8.  A little further away (6+ miles), you’ll find plenty of hotels off I-680.  Sports fans can enjoy the SF Giants or Oakland Athletics (at least till the end of 2024), the Oakland Ballers, and other Pecos League teams in Vallejo , San Rafael , and Dublin . Fans 3 The fans are a hardy group, paying attention to the game and staying to the end.  They cheer all well-executed plays. Fans appear to know each other.  Visitors often hear snippets of conversation like: “How’s your husband?” or “Did you get the invitation to Brad’s party?”  Attendees are retired folks, middle-aged supporters, and parents; it’s generally an older crowd.  Many fans have cowbells, lots of them!! Throughout the game, led by the PA announcer, you’ll hear chants of One! Two! Three! “Go Fish!” Access 4 Getting to Waterfront Park is relatively easy.  It’s only a half mile from downtown, so you can easily walk there.  It’s less than two miles off I-680, just south of the Benicia-Martinez Bridge.  If driving, park on the left side before reaching the tree-lined walkway to the field.  A golf cart picks fans up at the parking area and drives them to the field if desired. Map Courtesy of Google The closest airport is the San Francisco Oakland International Airport (37 miles away).  An Amtrak station is just outside Waterfront Park.  Bay area fans can also get to Martinez via BART and the Capital Corridor bus service. The ballpark does not have any bag rules.  It has restrooms behind the concession stand.  It is recognizably handicapped accessible.  Kudos to the city and the team for going the extra mile for those who experience mobility difficulties. Return on Investment 4 Attending a Martinez Sturgeon game is an affordable evening out.  Tickets are $10 for general admission; sit where you want and move around as desired.   Group tickets and season tickets are available for purchase.  Parking is free.  Concession prices are very reasonable. It’s a fun time here, and I encourage any baseball fan to visit Martinez and watch a game. . Extras 3 The fans are very welcoming to all visitors and are easy to strike up a conversation with.   The views beyond the outfield from the first base stands are worth mentioning again.  And the team having a golf cart to bring fans from their cars to the stands (and back) deserves extra notice. Final Thoughts Visiting Martinez, CA and the Martinez Sturgeon is a delightful day trip or evening out during the summer months.  Grab your family or friends, take a trip to this historic city, and catch a game.

Photos by Meg Minard, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 1.71 Fallon Field 4605 Lockhart St Dublin, CA 94568 Dublin Leprechauns website Fallon Field website Year Opened: 2018 Capacity: 350 Dublin (CA) Leprechauns The cleverly named Dublin Leprechauns are members of the Pecos League, an independent league of baseball played in small towns from Kansas to California.  The Leprechauns, founded in 2023, are one of the newest members of the Pecos League. They play their home games at Fallon Park, a premiere sports complex owned and operated by the City of Dublin, CA.  The Leprechauns play in Ball Field G at the corner of Fallon Rd and Central Pkwy. Food & Beverage 2 Vendors sell chips, candy, and soda from a small portable table and a blue Igloo cooler.  The staff places a small electric grill on the table and cooks hot dogs on the spot.  Interestingly, a mobile bar cart (Sip Social Co) is on hand at Leprechauns games. It offers  Five Suns Brewing beers (a hazy IPA, a Pilsner, and more) for $10.  The cart also sells organic root beer, Mandarin Fresca Fizz, and a Zingy Spritzer ($6).  Bottled water is $2.  This is the first time I’ve ever seen one of those mobile bar carts.  The operators kept busy the evening I attended a game. Fans can bring in their own food and drink.  Atmosphere 2 The venue has three rows of cement seats th at are inhabited by tin y ants that bite.  Bring insect repellant so you won’t get the heebie-jeebies from sitting on the cement platform.  Better yet, bring a seat cushion.  The seating offers no shade. An extremely thick chain link fence and poles surround the field.  This makes it difficult to watch the game, but I understand it is for safety reasons. A little, itty bitty press box is behind home plate. As with all Pecos League teams, the home team players groom the field. A very simple dot matrix scoreboard is in left field.  It does not show a line score, and the labels are unreadable. The first base side is the Leprechauns’ side, with the visiting team taking residence in the third base dugout. The music is way too loud to make the game enjoyable.  Bring your earplugs (but even those don’t help pregame).  Activities include a beer batter, a 50/50 raffle, and kids run the bases after the third inning.  The team has a ‘pass the hat’ for fans to drop in a few bucks after a player hits a home run.  They do it for the joy of playing.  The funds from the ‘passing of the hat’ go to the player to help with expenses.   Neighborhood 2 Dublin appears to be an affluent city.  The ballpark is in a residential area.  Restaurants and hotels are not within walking distance.  BJ’s Restaurant and Brewhouse is about a mile away.  Although a chain, this is probably the closest place to go pre or post-game.  Their beers are tasty.  Dust Bowl Brewing is 1 ½ miles  south, near some outlet shops off I-580 and Fallon Rd.  A friend recommended Porky's Pizza Palace (a 12 – 15 min drive from the park) in Pleasanton.  It has 32 taps, a full bar, and THE BEST fried chicken. Hotels in Dublin are costly.  A Homewood Suites and a Residence Inn are two miles south (near the Dust Bowl Brewing).  For more affordable choices, you’ll want to check out P leasanton, the next town to the west. Plenty of hotels are near the I-580. Dublin CA does not have any tourist attractions; there’s not a whole lot to see and do.  Yo u’ll need to travel a short distance for that.  The good news i s that th e town is close to Oakland, San Francisco, and an hour’s drive to San Jose.  For other baseball and sports to visit in the area, check out the San Jose Giants , Oakland Athletics (at least for now), Oakland Ballers, and Martinez Sturgeon .  Cross over the bay and catch a Vallejo Seaweed or San Rafael Pacifics baseball game.  Soccer fans will enjoy a Bay FC or a San Jose Earthquakes gam e, about a 40-minute drive away. Fans 1 Attendance usually runs 35 – 75 fans.  The temperature ofte n is a huge factor in the number of fans at a game; the hotter it is, the fewer fans show up.  On the evening I attended, a much larger group was in attendance, but most were there for a corporate party event.  Those fans were rude and were oblivious to fans who wanted to watch the game, standing right in front of them and blocking the view of the game.  They didn’t care about the game but just socialized without a clue or care of the real fans.  It’s a shame I attended on a night like that. I’ve been told the ardent 35 – 75 regular fans know to bring cushions and a cooler and are much more respectful. Access 3 I recommend parking in the south or lower fields parking lot off Central Pkwy.  Parking is free.  The lot even has an EV charger.  However, it’s a nightmare getting out after the game with all the other activities occurring at the park. The closest commercial airport is San Francisco Bay Oakland International Airport (OAK), about 22 miles west.  Visitors can take the BART (blue line) to Pleasanton, then take th e number 2 bus to the sports complex.  However, the bus doesn’t operate in the evenings or on the weekends, so public transportation is not an option for most games. The sports complex has serviceable restrooms near the baseball field. Return on Investment 1 Tickets are $13/general admission to sit on cement with no shade.  Senior discounts are not given.  That’s $3 (or 30%) more than other teams in the Pecos League Pacific Division.  It’s too much and not worth it. Go to an Oakland Ballers or a Martinez, Vallejo, or San Rafael Pecos League game instead if needing a baseball fix. Parking is free and the food and drink prices are decent.  . Extras 1 The mobile bar cart (Sip Social Co) the Leprechauns employ for their games deserves an extra mention. Final Thoughts I don’t recommend making a special trip to watch a Dublin Leprechauns game.  If, however, you are in the area in the summer, stop by and watch a game.  The n share yo ur thoughts on the experience.

Photos by Richard Smith, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.29 Leidos Field at Ripken Stadium 873 Long Drive Aberdeen, MD 21001 Aberdeen IronBirds website Leidos Field at Ripken Stadium website Year Opened: 2002 Capacity: 6,300 Taking a Rip The Aberdeen IronBirds moved to the Baltimore area in 2002 after local legend Cal Ripken, Jr. bought the Utica Blue Sox of the New York-Penn League and moved them to his hometown in the New York-Penn League. This did displace the independent Atlantic League’s Aberdeen Arsenal, who were trying to get state and local funding to build a ballpark so they could move out of their temporary home at Harford Community College in nearby Bel Air, Maryland. That funding instead went to building a home for the Ripken organization, and that was what got Ripken Stadium built. The Arsenal was disbanded after one season with a record of 56-83. Today, the IronBirds are part of the High-A South Atlantic League. The team has had no problem filling the seats and acting as a proper entrance to young players within the Baltimore Orioles organization. Food & Beverage 2 Unfortunately, we must be pretty critical of the stadium and its operations here. The lines at all the concession stands are far too long and slow. We talked to quite a few fans that spent almost 3 innings of time to get their food. We were hungry but gave up and ate after the game. It seems like a staffing issue. The actual offerings are good, although not exciting, but you should plan on eating before a game until they fix this problem. The food prices are very similar to many minor league baseball stadiums. There is a club-level bar called the High-A Bar. Atmosphere 3 Upon entering the stadium, the seating bowl slopes down towards the field. It is divided into two main sections separated by a large walkway area. Beyond the fences, it is not obvious that a major highway is right there, as trees make it a pleasant view. The Birds Nest is an all-you-can-eat dining group option that sits between the press box and the 100-level home plate seats. This does take some of the better seating options away from the regular fan. Other group decks are available at the end of the concourses. The game presentation is pretty good here, with the usual between-inning activities. These are supplemented by longtime mascot Ferrous (think about it….Iron….) and his friend, Ripcord. Neighborhood 3 Ripken Stadium is located across I-95 from the rest of Aberdeen. Right near the stadium are the Ripken Experience Baseball youth fields, two hotels, and some newer housing buildings in the area. One should wander around the youth baseball complex to see the replica baseball fields designed after Fenway, Yankee, Wrigley, and Baltimore’s own Memorial Stadium. The centerpiece is Cal Sr.’s Yard. It is a near-scale replica of Oriole Park at Camden Yards and even has a replica warehouse building that houses two hotels (Residence Inn Aberdeen and Courtyard Aberdeen). Outside the exact stadium area is some new development that includes a Royal Farms gas station, All American Steakhouse, an axe throwing location, a mini golf location, and Tropical Smoothie Cafe. A short drive away back over I-95 is an abundance of restaurants and hotels. Aberdeen, home to the Army’s massive Aberdeen Proving Grounds, is a center of business activity. Olive Tree is a better version of a well-known Italian chain, while Mamie’s Cafe is an old-school Baltimore-style restaurant that offers free desserts with all meals. The Greene Turtle, Panera Bread, and Super Chicken Rico are some other choices with which you can’t go wrong. Chap's Pit Beef is also located nearby and is. a good spot if you want to properly fill your belly before the game. Fans 3 The IronBirds sell out many of their games, but a bit less now that they are in a league that plays a longer season. Many of the ticket sales are from group sales, which means the fan base can be somewhat inconsistent. The group giveaways mean you will most likely see many fans wearing gear and other items at each game. There are some hardcore fans with seats around the home plate area. They will be loud and into all aspects of the game. You will also see Aberdeen apparel from various years of the team, as the look and feel of their uniforms and logo have changed a bit over time. Access 5 I-95 runs right next to the stadium, which means that access from there and State Route 22 (a major road across the ever-growing Harford County) is strong. Long Drive (which was named before the stadium was there, surprisingly) is a four-lane road that is the only way into the stadium area. It never gets too busy, as it is directed by staff and local police. Parking is free and plentiful. No traffic issues are leaving even busy games as the police handle the traffic flow well leaving the stadium. Expect traffic to take a bit longer on fireworks nights as those families who would have normally left early stick around to the end. Return on Investment 3 Ticket prices are higher for the IronBirds than they are at most minor league stadiums, especially for this level. The team must be overcompensating for the lower prices of the many group tickets that are out there. If you know of a group attending, that is your best value. Plan for tickets, as they may not be available for walk-up sales. Extras 4 The view of the warehouse replica is a great extra and gives a bit more to the atmosphere of the stadium. A fan should also stop in and check to see if any youth tournaments are using the Ripken fields. There will be games played there all summer. Although not located at the stadium, Chap's Pit Beef is an extra all on its own. Final Thoughts Ripken Stadium is a very nicely designed stadium. It was designed while looking at what went right and what went wrong in baseball design in the late 1990s. The result has often been that the stadium has felt a bit impersonal. But it is still a strong baseball facility. The food operations need major help, but with good options in the area, we can forgive them a little.

Photos Courtesy of Zach Beeson Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.43 Mel Olson Stadium 1321 SW 102nd St Burien, WA 98146 Dub Sea Fish Sticks website Mel Olson Stadium website Year Opened: 1979 Capacity: 1,500 Not Your Average Baseball Game A lot has changed at Mel Olston Stadium in West Seattle. The Fish Sticks began life in 2015 as the Highline Bears in the Pacific International League, a summer collegiate baseball league.  After the 2021 season, team management decided to rebrand and consulted the folks and Brandiose in San Diego. However, instead of coming up with one identity, two new logos were created, the Fish Sticks and Seal Slingers.  The club asked social media and the community to vote on their favorite, and after months of promotions, over 5,000 votes globally, the Fish Sticks won with 50.47 percent of the total votes.  The club plays at Mel Olston Stadium, AKA The Fryer. It was built in 1940 and would be the center of the community’s entertainment. It was an all-wooden stadium that held 2,000 people but burnt down as a result of arson on May 22, 1977. That might have been the end of the stadium if not for a local activist named Mel Olson. He lobbied the county to rebuild the stadium, and on April 2, 1979, a new 1,500 facility opened for business and would bear his name in 1985. However, the stadium needed improvements, and with the help of local groups and volunteers, organized a remodel of the field in 2008. They dedicated the park to long-time community leader and slain officer Steve Cox.  Besides the Fish Sticks, the stadium is also used by Seattle Prep High School, South West Little League, select baseball programs, and the Puget Sound Senior Baseball League. Food & Beverage 4 The Fish Sticks have almost everything from hot dogs to fish stick po’boys.  They sell fish sticks. You can get them by the pack of five or in a po'boy. There are many options at the concession stand, including ballpark staples to Pacific Northwest classics. Let’s look at what many consider some of the best options in summer collegiate baseball. There are a few ways to order a hot dog. They can be topped with chili, shredded cheese, carmelized garlic onions, mac and cheese, and pulled pork. The Seattle Dog is a regional treat topped with cream cheese and caramelized onions.  The stadium offers nachos and garlic fries topped with pulled pork, nacho cheese, and chili. Mac and cheese and mac and pork bowls are available. Then there are the sammies: fish stick po’boys, pulled pork, grilled cheese, and a Kraken IPA fish sandwich. The Ice Chest beer garden is in left field just past the concessions.  You do need an armband for alcohol consumption which you can get at the front gate/ticket office. The ice chest juts out into foul territory up close to the action on the field. The lines can get very long as there is only one concession that sells these items in left field, especially the night we went which was dollar beer night.  There is another concession stand in right field that sells the ballpark basics from hot dogs, peanuts, and nachos. Atmosphere 3 The Fish Sticks goal is to leave everyone with an impression they’ll remember. The small West Seattle stadium has been set up as a center of entertainment on game nights with in-game promotions, on-field gimmicks, lively music and PA announcements, a beer garden, and plenty of action on the diamond. There is an on-field MC to get the crowd engaged.  It makes for a vibrant atmosphere with engaged fans.  It is an interesting setup for a stadium as the only seating directly behind home plate is the press box. The stadium features two covered grandstands that are separated by a press box. The bleacher seats hover over the synthetic field turf, and many fans stand against the railings to get a better view of the game. Just down the left field line, fans in the Ice Chest beer garden enjoy beer and wine from local establishments in Seattle and the state.  Fin Crispy, Jr. is the giant fish stick mascot who patrols the grandstand, giving out hugs and high-fives to fans of all ages. His upbeat approach to entertainment can be assessed by the smiles on the kids' faces that chase him through the stadium. He is also on the field cheering on the crowd during certain portions of the game. The team has a few traditions that include the “first toss”. The honoree flings a fish toward home plate instead of a baseball. In keeping with the sea theme, when it came time for a t-shirt toss, the mascot and employees rode in a golf cart made to look like a fishing boat. It also serves as a target for a ring toss game. Another unique between-inning event is the Fin Crispy, Jr. standing on the boat near the beer garden with a fishing net.  Fans are to throw a large, plush material fish into the net. Fans should bring something to wear since the weather can get a little cooler once the sun sets. The team does have an outdoor team shop located near the front entrance. The team offers an abundance of t-shirts, caps, and replica jerseys. Neighborhood 2 Mel Olson Stadium is in the White Center neighborhood, 8 miles south of downtown. It is a quiet, residential area in the Burien area of Seattle.  Not a whole lot going on. There is a community center next to the stadium with outdoor basketball courts and a multi-purpose field. The neighborhood offers visitors lively and diverse restaurants within a few blocks of the stadium. Tomo ( 9811 16th Ave SW ) serves eclectic Japanese-American fare, Que Chevere ( 9808 16th Ave SW ) offers Colombian-style empanadas, the Crawfish House ( 9826 16th Ave SW ) is known for its shrimp po’boys, and Future Primitive Brewing ( 9832 14th Ave SW ) has award-winning IPAs. Enjoy a cup at Dubsea Coffee ( 9910 Eighth Ave SW ) while in the area. The Fish Sticks also play alongside other Seattle teams during the summer. The Seattle Marines play games at T-Mobile Park , the Seattle Storm are at the Climate Pledge Arena , and the Seattle Cascades ultimate frisbee team play at Memorial Stadium at the Seattle Center. Fans 3 Fan support has been strong the past two seasons; gone are the days of a few hundred fans for a Bears game. They are pretty nice and welcoming, pack the stadium, and cheer at the right times. The team sold out 13 home dates during the 2024 season. The Seattle communities of West Seattle, White Center, Burien, Normandy Park, Des Moines, Sea-Tac, and Tukwila have embraced the ball club since the rebrand. Access 4 The stadium isn't very far from I-5 and is easy to find via GPS. The stadium is small and does get crowded on busy nights. The team has set up large signage with arrows to direct patrons. It is advisable to arrive early to find parking in the lot or on the street. There is also a church across the street that also allows free parking. Return on Investment 4 General admission tickets are $12 a game, and children under 3 are free. The parking is free, but the stadium lot is small and fills quickly. Additional street parking is available, and there are three nearby lots on 13th, 14th,15th Ave SW, and SW 102nd St.  The price of food ranges from $7 for a basic hot dog to $15 for filthy fries (garlic parmesan fries topped with pulled pork, queso, chili, barbecue sauce, salsa, jalapenos, and sour cream). The food, promotions, and merchandise are top-notch and provide fans with quite the atmosphere on a summer night in West Seattle. However, tickets and concessions are a little on the high side for a summer collegiate team.  But it is understandable because of the area of the world in which they play. Extras 4 The Fish Sticks begin each game with the “first fish”. The honoree flings a fish toward home plate instead of a baseball. The tradition honors the fish tossing at the Pike Place Market in Seattle. Fans can pick up a souvenir 32-ounce mug for $15 and refill it for free for the entire season. It works for fans attending multiple games, but also great for sharing with a few children. Fan Batter of the Night takes place during non-league games. One fan is selected to lead off for the Fish Sticks and will receive a contract for $70 (paid out $2 and the rest deferred until 2034). Final Thoughts It is a good time at the Fish Sticks with affordable family fun.  Their rebrand from the Highline Bears has proven successful and fans show up.

Photos by Aaron S. Terry, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.29 TD Place Stadium 1015 Bank St Ottawa, ON K1S 3W7 Canada Ottawa Redblacks website TD Place Stadium website Year Opened: 1908 Capacity: 24,000 The CFL’s Newest Franchise The Ottawa Redblacks are the third CFL franchise to call the city home – the Ottawa Rough Riders were a founding member of the CFL and played until 1996. A few years later the Ottawa Renegades came into being, but their franchise only lasted a few seasons. The current iteration of CFL football here, the Redblacks, was founded in 2014 and currently plays at TD Place, a facility that has existed in some form since the 1870s. The team has been to the Grey Cup three times, winning it once in 2016. Originally known as Lansdowne Park, the grounds here have hosted the Summer Olympics, FIFA championships, and seven Grey Cups. In 2010 the city approved a revitalization and redevelopment plan, and TD Place now resembles the type of sports venue that is becoming popular across the United States and Canada, with the stadium serving as the anchor point for a shopping, dining, and entertainment district. TD Place has several restaurants nearby, including a sports bar next door, as well as a massive apartment complex behind the west end zone, with views of the football field from its balconies.   Food & Beverage   5 TD Place has all the concessions one would expect from a sports venue, plus some interesting extras, with typical prices compared to other pro sports stadiums. Food selections on offer include fan favorites like hot dogs, Italian sausage, and pizza, but also atypical selections such as a duck meat sandwich, Chicago-style hot dog, and hot dogs with Korean fried chicken added. You can also find ribs, chicken shawarma, meatball subs, and grilled cheese with or without jalapenos; snacks include chips, candy, donuts, popcorn, tater tots, and fries, as well as the ever-present Canadian favorite, poutine. Main dishes start at CAD 7.80 and go up to $14.50 – the duck meat sandwich with fries comes in at $20 and is the most expensive item on the menu. Drink selections include bottled Pepsi products, bottled water, coffee, tea, and hot cocoa, or you can find canned beer and hard lemonade. Drink prices run from CAD 3.45 to $5.65 for non-alcoholic choices, while alcohol options go from $10 (happy hour selections including Michelob Ultra, Goose Island, and SVNS hard lemonade) to $13.55 (Stella Artois).   Atmosphere   5 TD Place has a great atmosphere with a great crowd. There are lots of activities on the concourse such as giant Connect Four, giant Jenga, and cornhole, and there are also plenty of different places for fans to sit or stand while eating their food and drinks before heading down to their seats. There are also TVs on the main level so you don’t have to miss the action while waiting in line, and there are several team gear stands – the main one in the middle of the south side, as well as several smaller ones dotted around. The individual chairback seats are arranged in different colors, mainly red and grey for the Redblacks, of course, which adds a nice aesthetic to the facility, and there is plenty of greenery to be seen from your seat in this riverside setting – there is a bridge on the east side so fans can walk to the venue across Rideau Canal. The Redblack name is taken from lumberjack lore, and this is evidenced in the team’s logo and tunnel, the latter a giant buzzsaw blade – the mascot can also be seen in his red and black flannel shirt, wielding an axe and holding a circle of wood cut from a tree trunk, emblazoned with the Redblacks “R”. Every time the Redblacks score a touchdown, the staff cuts a new circle of wood from a giant tree trunk in celebration. There are also fireworks shot off behind the north side stands just before kickoff, so have your camera ready.   Neighborhood   4 As mentioned above there are plenty of restaurants within walking distance of TD Place, including Craft Beer Market Restaurant & Bar right next door, as well as numerous other options on the north side of the stadium – everything from fast food to sports bars to pizza places. Hotels are a bit further out, but still only around 3 km from the venue, most of them closer to downtown Ottawa and the Ottawa River, which divides Quebec from Ontario. There are a few nice attractions in the area, including several parks, but the most well-known are probably the Olympic Garden, the Canadian Museum of Nature, and Billings Estate. There are also plenty of options for shopping if you plan to be in town for the day or weekend, and Montreal (the nearest big city to Ottawa) is only an hour and a half away.   Fans   3 There is a great crowd at TD Place, which contributes to the raucous atmosphere, but the facility most likely will not sell out – the Redblacks have historically been in the bottom half of the CFL in terms of attendance, averaging under 20K fans per game last season. Given the smaller size of TD Place compared to other CFL venues, however, this works out to the stadium being mostly full at your typical Redblacks game, so the low attendance will likely not be noticeable. Some fans will show up in Redblacks gear, though not a lot. However, they do respond to prompts from the PA announcer and call-outs on the video board, as well as cheering for big plays by their team on the field, so the fans here are definitely into the game, and most stay until the end, even when the home team is way ahead.   Access   3 There are no parking lots to speak of near TD Place, so fans must either park on the other side of Rideau Canal and walk over, or park in one of the garages near the facility, or you can park on one of the city streets if you get there early. Be aware of posted signs when parking, however, as there are strict time limits that may be shorter than the game. Once you get to the stadium, however, moving around is easy. There are several entrances into the venue, and there is plenty of room on the concourse to accommodate the size of the crowd. Fans are free to walk across either the west end or the east end to move between the two grandstands, and there are elevators available for those who need them (at least on the south side – the north side grandstand only has stairs).   Return on Investment   5 Tickets to Ottawa Redblacks games are not expensive, coming in at around 85.00 CAD for two tickets about halfway up on the sideline – there is no actual seating behind the end zones, but you are welcome to stand on the concourse and watch from either end. I consider this cost, which is a reasonable price for a CFL game or even a sporting event in general, to be a great return on investment, given the modern facility, great amenities, and wonderful atmosphere and scenery you will find at TD Place.   Extras   5 The scenery at TD Place is great, and the staff does a wonderful job pulling out all the stops to make a great game day experience. The mascot and other accents tie in well to the team’s name and logo, and having games to play on the concourse is a real plus, especially for those bringing kids to the game. I enjoyed the fireworks before the game, as well as all the tables and standing rails on the concourse, which make it easy to enjoy your food before heading to your seats. The team store also has a huge selection of different items, at a variety of price points, making it easy to afford at least some souvenir of your visit.   Final Thoughts Ottawa is not a large city, but I would recommend a visit here to take in a Redblacks game. There are not many cities where the average fan would go just to see a sporting event, but this is one I think should be on that list.

Photos by Aaron S. Terry, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.14 Percival Molson Memorial Stadium 475 Avenue Pine Montreal, QC H2W 1S4 Canada Montreal Alouettes website Percival Molson Memorial Stadium website Year Opened: 1915 Capacity: 25,012 Downtown Football in Montreal Percival Molson Memorial Stadium is one of the oldest (American) football stadiums in the world – well over a century old, it opened in 1915. Compare that to Bobby Dodd Stadium , which opened in 1913, the oldest football venue in US college football’s FBS, or Franklin Field , which opened in 1895, the oldest football stadium in US college football’s FCS. Molson Stadium is on the campus of Montreal’s McGill University and is home to the Montreal Alouettes of the CFL, as well as several of McGill’s sports teams.   Food & Beverage   4 Molson Stadium has a good selection of concessions items on offer. Still, most are sold at ground level, and the lines are generally very long – it is common for fans to choose items based on which stand has the shortest line versus which food item they want. For those sitting higher up in the stands, they do have staff who walk around selling snacks and beverages, but it will be a long walk back downstairs to get anything more substantial. Concessions options include hot dogs starting at 5,25$, fries for 6,25$, Italian sausage for 8,25$, popcorn for 9,00$, and poutine starting at 11,00$, as well as hamburgers and other items. Non-alcoholic drinks include bottled Coke products, bottled water, Powerade, energy drinks, and other items starting at 6,00$, while alcohol selections start at 11,50$ and include canned domestic and imported beer, wine, cocktails, and more.   Atmosphere   3 Molson Stadium has a band on stage behind one end zone, which plays before the game and during halftime – the mini-concert is much better at halftime after it gets dark, with the band indulging the crowd with pulsing lights and cones of smoke. There is also a great mascot that moves around the stadium interacting with the crowd, including playing games with fans (mostly kids) on the field during breaks in the action. They also have cheerleaders on hand, but the videoboards on both ends of the field are relatively small. One highlight is the tunnel the team comes out of to begin the game – called the “birdcage” in a nod to the Alouettes avian moniker, the blue inflatable tunnel has jail cell bars on one end, complete with a padlock, which are opened to allow the players to come onto the field. The staff also adds a couple of smoke machines at the front of the tunnel to enhance the effect, and the cheerleaders are also on hand to cheer on the Alouettes as they take the field.   Neighborhood   4 Molson Stadium is located in downtown Montreal, so fans can walk to the facility from their hotel if staying nearby (more on this later). There are plenty of restaurants within walking distance, both fast food type places like A&W and the Canadian classic Tim Horton’s, as well as more upscale restaurants like The Keg Steakhouse – you may have heard of Montreal steak seasoning, but if you haven’t, let me tell you that Montreal steak is an actual well-known thing, and I would recommend visiting one of the great steakhouses in town to try it. Also, if you haven’t been to Canada before I would recommend trying smoked meat (Dunn’s is a great choice), poutine (which is sold pretty much everywhere, even places like McDonald’s), or Tim Horton’s. If you plan to be in town for a full day or overnight, a great place to visit is Old Montreal, where you can find the city’s Notre Dame Basilica, or you may prefer to visit one of the great parks in town – if you head to the east and drive or hike up the hill, you can get some great views of the St. Lawrence River.   Fans   3 Molson Stadium will see a decent number of fans during Montreal Alouettes games – though the dated facility and lack of amenities may not offer much of a draw for some fans, the Alouettes are also riding high right now from winning the Grey Cup last season, which seems to have increased the attendance a little. In fairness, Molson Stadium has the smallest capacity of any current CFL stadium, so even with their 2nd-lowest average attendance in the league, the facility can appear mostly full.  However, this low level of attendance year after year also may explain why they aren’t moving to a better stadium, and also why the staff is not investing in any upgrades to the venue.   Access   2 Molson Stadium is difficult to get to and difficult to get around. There isn’t a formal parking lot – with its downtown location fans are forced to park in one of the parking garages nearby, or if they come early enough may be able to park on one of the city streets. As mentioned earlier you can also walk from one of the nearby hotels if staying downtown, although it might be a long walk – uphill on the way there, but downhill following the game. You might also choose to have an Uber drop you off or pick you up near the entrance; there are also bus stops nearby and a metro station on campus. As mentioned above, it is also difficult to move around the stadium, due to the long concession lines at ground level, which tend to block the pathways fans are trying to use to get to their seats. There is a ramp that goes around behind the north end zone, which fans can use to get to the west side of the facility, or you can walk around at ground level on the south side – the main entrance is on the east side of the field, but the west side is considered the home side, where you will see the mascot hanging out and have the midfield logo facing you.   Return on Investment   3 Tickets to Alouettes games are not expensive, coming in at around $77.00 for two tickets on the sideline (even cheaper in the end zone). That is a reasonable price to pay for a CFL game, and even a sporting event in general, but the facilities and access found here bring the score down a little.     Extras   3 The games here are mostly announced in French (similar to the signage inside), which of course makes sense for Montreal and would seem pretty normal for any local, but for someone from another part of Canada, or the United States like yours truly, does add a bit of an exotic flair. The Alouettes are in the middle of the pack in terms of Grey Cup wins, with eight victories and 19 appearances as of this writing, but given the current franchise has only existed since 1996 (they relocated from Baltimore after winning the 1995 Grey Cup), that is a pretty impressive record – the Alouettes are the second-oldest active team in the league behind Ottawa , which was re-founded in 2014.   Final Thoughts Montreal is a great city to visit, with easy flights from many places in Canada, the US, and even Europe, so if you have a chance to stop by I would highly recommend it. While Molson Stadium itself may not be the jewel of a sports venue it once was, you are still in for a fun time at a reasonable cost, and you are likely to see a pretty good team on the field in the CFL’s Montreal Alouettes.

Photos by Shutterstock and Sean MacDonald, Lloyd Brown, Andy Pregler Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.00 JMA Wireless Dome 900 Irving Ave Syracuse, NY 13244 Syracuse Orange website JMA Wireless Dome website Year Opened: 1980 Capacity: 34,616 There’s No Place Like Dome Syracuse bills itself as New York’s college team and if that is the case, then the Carrier Dome in New York’s college arena. Not only does the Orange football team play here, but so does its nationally recognized lacrosse team. However, the most famous denizen of the dome is the basketball squad that is now the 6th-winningest program in NCAA history. Over the years, many future NBA stars have played under Coach Jim Boeheim, with the most notable perhaps Carmelo Anthony, who led the team to the 2003 championship. NCAA violations announced in 2015 led to a loss of scholarships and hurt the reputation of both Boeheim and the school, but they rebounded to make a Final Four Appearance in 2016. It looks like the worst is over, so we paid a visit to the Carrier Dome to see if the experience of attending an Orange basketball game has changed. Note : The venue's name changed from Carrier Dome to JMA Wireless Dome in 2022. Food & Beverage 3 “The Dome” was opened in 1980 and the concession stands seem to have changed little since then. Old style menu boards list typical stadium fare and little else. A slice of pizza ($5), German frank or coney ($4), and sausage subs with peppers and onions ($7) are all popular items. Nachos sell for $7.50 and you can get sauerkraut or extra cheese for $1.50. Snacks include pretzels ($4), popcorn ($3.50), and caramel corn ($4.50). There are a couple of specialty items, but you will have to look around for them. An ice cream stand offers three sizes in various flavors from $4-$5, while pizza logs can be found behind Section 121. Another stand sells chili for $6 and pulled pork sandwiches for $8. Despite being a college venue, beer is available. Domestic drafts (Bud and Bud Light) are $7 while craft brews will cost a dollar more. The unique beverage here is an $8 wine slush, made with wine from the nearby Finger Lakes region. Pepsi is the soft drink provider with bottles costing $4, the same as a regular fountain drink. A large cup (32 ounces) is $5.50. Coffee, hot chocolate, and milk are also available. There is not a lot of variety for such a large venue, but the prices are reasonable–a fair tradeoff. Atmosphere 5 Only one-half of the building is used for basketball, with the court being set up around where one end zone would be for football. The permanent seats thus take up 3 quarters of the court, with a few sections of temporary seats on the far side. There are also courtside seats all around. There are three levels of seating at the Dome, but with suites at either end of the court sitting at the same level as the second deck, even the upper bowl is not that far away from the action. All seats are benches, with the two lower levels having seatbacks, while the upper deck offering more traditional bench seating. Season ticket holders use orange seats to make their visit a bit more comfortable, and these seats remain in place even after the game, adding a bit of color to the scene. The other half of the stadium is the Toyota Fun Zone, where you can play games and look at advertising booths before the game. There are permanent video boards at the top of the dome, and a smaller scoreboard behind the temporary seats. Player names are not displayed, but game stats are continuously displayed on ribbon boards. What makes this place thoroughly enjoyable is the energy put into the events during the breaks in the action, by both the fans and the cheering sections. The band (known as the Sour Sitrus Society) is behind the basket closer to the Syracuse bench, just in front of the student section. The cheerleaders stand in front of the band, and they keep things lively throughout. There is also a dance team, who collectively accompany the national anthem using sign language. Of course, they also get out on the floor to entertain fans. During the final media timeout, some of the male cheerleaders run C-U-S-E flags around the perimeter of the court and then right through it, which really gets the crowd going during crunch time. Everything is well coordinated and you shouldn’t leave your seat during the timeouts as you might miss something that would get you pumped for when the action begins again. The dome is energized from well before the national anthem, and of course, during, when O is shouted out midway through in honor of the Orange. At tip-off, fans stand and clap until the Orange make a basket. From there, the energy continues to build, and things can get wild if the home team is winning. It is really impressive that they can pull this off in a dome, which is usually a lifeless venue. Neighborhood 4 The Carrier Dome is on campus, and there are a few bars nearby, with Marshall Street the primary location. Faegan’s Cafe and Varsity Pizza are two good bets here. If you want something a bit more varied, you’ll have to drive downtown, where Empire Brewing and Blue Tusk, among many other establishments, can be found. Of course, no visit to Syracuse would be complete without a stop at Dinosaur BBQ, located at the corner of Willow and Franklin. You’ll probably have to wait, but it will be worth it. If you happen to be traveling with a shopaholic, Destiny USA is a good spot to leave them while you check out the game. This large mall is a couple of miles north on I-81 and also has a movie theater. Fans 5 A superb contingent of orange-clad supporters turns the dome into a surprisingly loud place. They stand at the beginning of the game, and often during as well. They know their team well and cheer them on with passion. A typical crowd is 25,000, and that can get upwards of 30,000 when a top opponent visits. It doesn’t appear that fans get up to get a beer during the action; they are here to watch the game and really make the Carrier Dome a great place to visit. Access 3 Syracuse is about 4 hours north of New York City along I-81, and just over 2 hours east of Buffalo along I-90 via the New York Thruway. The Carrier Dome is located on the campus, an architectural outlier surrounded by beautiful old buildings. It is right next to I-81 and quite easy to access from both the north or southbound lanes. If you are using the Thruway, you will take I-81 south about 3 miles to access the campus. University parking lots charge $15 (garages are $25) but avoid them and drive to Ashworth Place, a block north of Genesee Street. One side of Ashworth allows parking from 6 pm on odd days to 6 pm on even days, the other vice versa, so you will always be able to park here. If you don’t remember what day it is, just follow everybody else’s lead. It is about a 15-minute walk from this area to the game. Despite the large crowd, entry to the stadium is very easy due to the fact there are over a dozen entrances, both at the upper and lower levels. Fans spread out and there are no lines for the most part. There is a cursory security check with a wand, but no metal detectors to make everyone move quickly to the concourse. Inside, there are two levels of concourses with the upper concourse leading to both the second and third seating bowls. Crowds will form, especially when concession lines move into walking areas. The entire concourse is open even though the seating sections on the other side of the stadium is not open, it might be a good idea to take a walk around if you need a bit of space. You will notice Club 44 behind sections 108 and 109. This is a membership-only area that looks to be quite interesting but is off limits to the average fan. Exiting the stadium might take a minute or two as you are directed to the revolving door. Meanwhile, restrooms are the old style trough type (for men obviously). There were no lineups, but I would guess they do occur during halftime when most fans leave their seats. Return on Investment 3 The cheapest seat here is $45 for ACC opponents, a bit pricey for the end zone in the third deck of a dome, even though the experience can be thrilling. Prices go up from there, with seats in the temporary area costing $125 for a premium ticket that includes a donation. You might be better off looking on the secondary market or buying from a reseller out front. Fortunately, food is relatively cheap here, so you can have a decent afternoon for just over $100 for two, but this is still too much for college hoops. Extras 5 Take a walk around the concourse and check out all the history on display. The 2003 championship trophy is in one case all by itself, but there are others that contain a tribute to the Syracuse Eight, memorabilia from football seasons past, and Ernie Davis’ Heisman Trophy. Inside, there are banners honoring lacrosse, football, and basketball heroes of the past. Outside, you can find a statue of Davis on the way to the quad. The number 31 is now at center court to honor Pearl Washington, who passed away in April 2016. There is a rainwater harvesting system that collects rain that runs off the roof and stores it for use in washrooms. You can see some of the machinery behind this as you walk along the concourse. Another point for having the dance team use sign language for the national anthem, a nice touch. Final Thoughts The experience of seeing a Syracuse Orange game at the Carrier Dome is one that every college basketball fan should enjoy at least once. Domes are slowly disappearing because they are usually terrible places to watch a sporting event. Here, however, the opposite is true, due mostly to the fantastic fan base, but also to the unique setup where only half the venue is used. Syracuse is not the easiest place to get to, but if you are planning to be in the area during the hoops season, make sure to time your visit so that you can add the Carrier Dome to your list of visited venues.

Photos by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.14 Oncenter War Memorial Arena 800 S State St Syracuse, NY 13202 Syracuse Crunch website Oncenter War Memorial Arena website Year Opened: 1951 Capacity: 6,159 In Memory of our Service Veterans If there is one thing that can be said about the arenas of the American Hockey League, it is that they are varied and unique. Some of the teams play in modern, spacious buildings that they share with NBA teams, such as the Quicken Loans Arena in Cleveland . Others play in fine mid-sized arenas, like the Dunkin’ Donuts Center in Providence , while others play in tiny bandboxes that are filled to the rafters with noise and fans, such as the Utica Memorial Auditorium. Buildings like Syracuse’s Oncenter War Memorial Arena belong in yet another category. What this building may lack in amenities and creature comforts, it more than makes up for in history and character. While many venues are called memorials, the Oncenter War Memorial contains far more than just your standard vague plaque honoring those who sacrificed their lives for this country. Built over the course of three years from 1949 to 1951, the War Memorial is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, which means it has been deemed worthy of preservation. While this may hamstring any tenant wishing to make renovations to the arena, it ensures that the wonderful memorial will remain for years to come. The Crunch are the fourth AHL team to call the War Memorial home, following the Warriors, Eagles and Firebirds. The National Basketball Association’s Syracuse Nationals played here from 1951 to 1963, winning an NBA title in 1955. The building has hosted an NBA All-Star game in 1961, NCAA Frozen Fours in 1967 and 1971, as well as AHL All-Star games in 1998 and 2016. Perhaps more importantly to many hockey fans, scenes from the legendary hockey film Slap Shot were filmed here. Food & Beverage 2 The concessions menu at the War Memorial does not stray far from arena basics. There are several stands scattered throughout the two concourses which offer hot dogs, hamburgers, chicken tenders, French fries and pizza. Snacks such as pretzels, popcorn, nachos and assorted candy can also be purchased here. Fans looking for a more unique item should try the Crunch Dog, which is a Hoffman’s hot dog topped with crispy onions, bacon and cheese sauce served on a pretzel roll. Also, with Syracuse being so close to Canada, poutine is on the menu. For those unaware of this Canadian delicacy, poutine consists of French fries topped with gravy and cheese curds. Thirsty Crunch fans can choose from several brands of beer, including Molson Canadian and Miller Lite. Offerings from local brewer Beak and Skiff are also sold here. Pepsi products are featured at the War Memorial. Atmosphere 3 The Crunch offer the standard game day presentation, with giveaways, loud rock music, t-shirt tosses, and other features which have become common in minor league sports. The team employs a mascot, Crunchman, who interacts with fans throughout the game. In addition, there is a dance squad who provide distraction during play stoppages. In a building as old and historic as the War Memorial, some of these touches seem strangely out of place. Hanging from the rafters of the War Memorial are banners honoring the Crunch’s one division and conference title, banners honoring championships won by the old Blazers and Stars, as well as banners honoring local Welterweight boxing champion Carmen Basilio and the Syracuse Nationals, NBA champs in 1955. Neighborhood 3 Despite the War Memorial’s downtown location, there is little to do in the immediate vicinity of the facility. The Ale ‘N’ Angus Pub is the only restaurant immediately adjacent to the rink. The area around the War Memorial is usually very quiet and safe. Armory Square, an area with several fine bars and restaurants, is just over a half mile from the War Memorial. Local favorites Dinosaur BBQ, Empire Brewing Company, and Pastabilities can all be found near here. Syracuse University is located about a mile away in the opposite direction on University Hill. Fans 3 Syracuse averages around 5,500 fans per game at the War Memorial, which is good for the middle of the pack in the AHL. As is the case with most minor league clubs today, the Crunch market themselves as affordable family entertainment, and the crowd in attendance on any given night reflects this philosophy. The crowd is a mix of families out for a night of entertainment and die-hard fans who live and die with each shift. Many fans will notice a group of Crunch superfans who attend each game dressed as the Hanson Brothers from Slap Shot, complete with mullet wigs and black horn-rimmed glasses. At some point every game, usually at the opposition’s first penalty of the night, the PA system plays the Bonanza theme, and the Hansons run along the aisle, high-fiving fans along the way and encouraging fans to make some noise. Access 4 The War Memorial is part of a larger complex, which also consists of the Nicholas J. Pirro Convention Center, Civic Center Theaters and Everson Plaza. Together the buildings are known as the Oncenter. The Oncenter War Memorial is located in downtown Syracuse, just blocks from Interstates 690 and 81. Plentiful parking can be found within a few blocks of the War Memorial. Driving directions and a parking map can be found here . Fans will enter the War Memorial on either side of the building. There is a small entry lobby on both sides, a welcome feature when battling a cold central New York winter. Once passing through a quick security check, fans will find themselves in the cramped horseshoe-shaped concourse. Fans will find a table set up with various Crunch merchandise across the hallway. The Exhibit Gallery, featuring life-size replicas of actual Syracuse area veterans representing the Revolutionary War through the Vietnam War is located on this concourse. Interestingly for a building of this size, the War Memorial has dual concourses. Fans with upper level seats will climb a set of stairs to the upper concourse, which contains its own set of concessions, restrooms and the Veteran’s Honor Wall, which recognizes over 63,000 service men and women who have resided or currently reside in Onondaga County. Once inside the arena, fans will immediately notice the stage at the far end of the arena adorned with the phrase “in memory of our service veterans.” Some seating is located here as well. The seating bowl is split into upper and lower sections, each featuring individual folding seats. The upper level is bisected by a walkway located about halfway up. Return on Investment 4 Tickets for Crunch games range in price between $16 for stage seats to $20 for lower level seats. Waiting until game day to purchase your tickets will cost an extra two dollars. Youth tickets cost $16. In addition, the Crunch offer a variety of group ticket deals to further increase value. Parking in the many lots surrounding the War Memorial starts at five dollars. Concessions, while not cheap, are not out of line with other venues of this size. Overall, catching a Crunch game at the War Memorial is an affordable entertainment option for central New York sports fans. Extras 3 The War Memorial is more than just a building with a plaque attached to it honoring those men and women who sacrificed everything for their country. Walk the halls of the arena, and you will come across an impressive display containing life-sized mannequins dressed in the actual garb of local residents representing uniforms from the Revolutionary War to the Vietnam conflict. A large display also houses a significant amount of historical items. If you are a history buff, it’s worth getting to the arena early to check out. On the upper concourse is the Veteran’s Honor Wall, which lists over 63,000 Ononganda County residents who served in various branches of the military. Scenes from perhaps the most iconic hockey movie ever made were filmed here at the War Memorial. In an homage to the film, three Syracuse superfans have been coming to games dressed as the Hanson Brothers. What started as a Halloween costume has turned into a Syracuse hockey tradition. Hidden away in a small alcove on the upper concourse is a display commemorating the War Memorial’s significant place in basketball history. The Syracuse Nationals played here during the 1950s and 1960s, winning an NBA championship in 1955. Syracuse hosted the first game to use the 24 second shot clock. Nationals’ president and founder Danny Blasone was a proponent of the shot clock, and was instrumental in getting the NBA to adopt its use. Final Thoughts As a hockey venue, the War Memorial does nothing that will blow you away. It is infinitely more interesting as a memorial and as one of the locations in the iconic movie Slap Shot. For hockey fans who have an interest in our nation’s history, the War Memorial is worth a visit. Follow Paul Baker’s stadium journeys on Twitter @PuckmanRI .

Photos by Aaron S. Terry, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.57 Eldorado Gaming Scioto Downs 6000 S High St Columbus, OH 43207 Eldorado Gaming Scioto Downs website Year Opened: 2012 Harness Racing Ohio Eldorado Gaming Scioto Downs is located a few miles south of Columbus, though technically still has a Columbus address. It boasts a horse racing track behind its casino, and unlike many horse racing facilities, Scioto Downs’ only live racing is harness racing (May to September), where the drivers ride in a small cart behind the horse, as opposed to riding the horse itself. Scioto Downs also offers year-round simulcast viewing of horse races happening at other tracks, and besides horse racing, the track also sometimes hosts high school cross country championships.   Food & Beverage   5 There is plenty of food on offer at Scioto Downs – the main draw is the full-service restaurant and bar inside the clubhouse, where you can get table service while you sit and watch the races. Tables must be reserved if you want to sit down in time for the first race, but any unclaimed tables become available on a first come, first served basis 40 minutes after the first post time, which is at 5:50 pm on most race days, so you can grab a table without a reservation starting at 6:30.  There should still be plenty of tables available then, but I would recommend making a reservation.  There is also a Brew Brothers pub inside the casino, but you must be 21 or older to enter any part of the casino. Besides the two restaurants there are a couple of food stands in the adjacent building, as well as next to the track – options include all the standards such as pizza, chicken sandwiches, burgers, hot dogs, walking tacos, corn dogs, nachos, tater tots, pretzels, funnel cake, and packaged candy, as well as bottled water, bottled soda, and a full range of beer and cocktails.   Atmosphere   2 Scioto Downs doesn’t have much going on besides the racing itself – in past years they have had races where people dressed up in inflatable costume, like the T-Rex costumer popular at Halloween, but I didn’t see anything like that on my most recent visit. The big draw for most attendees is of course the gambling – I do recommend getting there early, maybe around 5 pm, as they sometimes start the races early without warning (technically your clubhouse table reservation doesn’t open until 5:30, since the first race is supposed to be at 5:50).   Neighborhood   3 Scioto Downs is about 11 miles south of downtown Columbus, but there are still several restaurants nearby, most of which are local diners and pizza places, but you can also find Asian cuisine and a Mexican restaurant, as well as the Ohio staple, Bob Evans. There are a couple of hotels near the track, Budget Inn and Hampton Inn being the closest, and there are also several nearby attractions if you plan to be in town for the day or weekend, especially if you head toward downtown. Columbus Zoo is popular, and if you go to the races in September, you may also be able to take in a Buckeyes  game during your visit.   Fans   3 Scioto Downs has pretty good attendance during most race days, especially up in the clubhouse, and you will see a few folks with children. There is pretty good crowd noise as well, most notably at the end of a close race as people cheer on their favorites, and a lot of hustle and bustle at the concession stands, as well as at the betting machines and betting windows.   Access   4 Getting to Scioto Downs is easy, as it is not far from I-70 and I-71, the two main arteries taking people to the bigger cities north, south, east, and west. Once you get on the property there is plenty of free parking right next to the facility; the track itself is hidden behind the casino; you just need to walk around back. Pro tip – when you get to the casino you should drive your car around back first to see if you can park closer to the racetrack, assuming there are spaces there; on my last two visits I made the mistake of parking way out in front, near the road, instead of checking for parking closer in first. In addition, when going racing don’t mind the signs saying 21 and older – you only have to be 21+ to enter the casino or to make a bet on the ponies; visitors of any age can enter the clubhouse and racetrack. Once you get to the track there is plenty of room trackside and in the clubhouse, and since you don’t have to buy a ticket or show an id to get it, there are no lines. You may have to wait in line at the concessions inside the adjacent building, as those stands tend to stack up, but the ones outside next to the track are very quick.  There are also plenty of different seating options next to the track if you don’t want to sit in the clubhouse.   Return on Investment   5 No cost for admission, and no cost for parking means to a great return on investment, and it was fun to see a different kind of racing.  I would definitely recommend a visit, especially if you have never seen horse racing, or harness racing, before. Also, it is worth a visit even if you are not a big gambler – technically the minimum bet is only 10 cents or 50 cents, worst case 2 dollars, so you can have a bet just for fun without taking much of a risk. Note that the 10 cent and 50 cent bets are for superfectas and trifectas, which aren’t offered on every single race, but are offered during most races.  Standard bets like picking the horse to simply win, or place, or show, start at $2. During my last visit I introduced some family members to the trifecta box wager – for $3 you can pick the first 3 horses to come in, in any order, and they had a blast with that. We didn’t come out ahead, to be sure, but we only lost a few dollars on each race, so it was totally worth it just for the fun.   Extras   3 The casino that is part of the facility is a nice feature if you are into that sort of thing, and being able to see harness racing is a unique feature, since you can’t see that type of racing at most horse racing tracks. They also sell track souvenirs, like t-shirts, in the building next to the clubhouse (walk out the left side of the clubhouse, then go down the stairs and up the other set). The staff also had a charity activity for the kids set up during my most recent visit in front of that adjacent building – it was nice to see them supporting the local community like that.

Photos by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.86 Lowell Park 10 Lowell Ave Cotuit, MA 02635 Cotuit Kettleers website Lowell Park website Year Opened: 1947 Capacity: 2,000 Have A Hit!   The small village of Cotuit contains what is arguably one of the most picturesque baseball diamonds in the nation. Located in the town of Barnstable, Lowell Park is named after Elizabeth Lowell, the daughter of George Jones, one of the co-founders of the New York Times. Mrs. Lowell donated the land that the ball field and adjoining nature reserve are located on. The Kettleers are the most successful team in Cape League history, having won the league championship 15 times in the “Modern Era” of the Cape Cod League, which began in 1963. Cotuit has won 17 championships overall.   You may be wondering what exactly a “Kettleer” is. Although the details can be a bit murky, it is a term that goes back to colonial times. The most popularly accepted story is that the earliest settlers from England were unable to sufficiently farm or hunt for themselves and ended up trading frequently with the local Native tribes. Most frequently, the trades consisted of crops (usually corn) for kettles. Other stories tell of the colonists purchasing the land that became Cotuit from the natives for two kettles and a hoe. Thus, the term “Kettleers” refers to the locals of Cotuit.   Food & Beverage 3   The Lowell Park snack bar, operated by Cotuit Fresh Market, is behind the third base grandstand. The menu consists of standard ballpark fare, with hot dogs, hamburgers, and sausage sandwiches available. Also on the menu are numerous snack items, including peanuts, popcorn, and nachos, as well as candy and ice cream treats.   Thirsty visitors to Lowell Park can choose from various Coca-Cola products. As is the case at all Cape Cod ballparks, alcoholic beverages are not sold here.  Fans who have not visited Cotuit in a while may bemoan the downsizing of the menu and the deletion of many local items.   Even with the solid selection of food sold at Lowell Park, visitors are free to bring their food and drink to a Kettleers game. Just no alcohol in your coolers, please.   Atmosphere 4   The game day atmosphere at Lowell Park is a baseball purist’s dream. There is very little extra activity going on here to distract one from the action on the field. The loud music and over-the-top PA announcements that are present elsewhere are not to be found here. Batters do not stride to the plate with any walk-up music blaring over the speakers, nor is there music between most innings. PA announcements are limited to upcoming batters, lineup changes, and some advertisements for local sponsors.   Lowell Park is located in a former nature reserve and has been compared to Field of Dreams in Iowa, as it seems to have been similarly carved out of its natural environment. Recent grants from the Yawkey Foundation have allowed the club to purchase the land around the ballfield to prevent any development around the park as well as to make improvements in the facility. New to Lowell Park is a large grandstand on the first base side of the field, a new scoreboard with video capability, a nature trail, and landscaping in the area beyond the outfield fence. The open spaces around the field provide lots of room for younger fans to chase down foul balls and for the many four-legged fans in attendance to run around.   Cape League teams are run as non-profit organizations which rely on donations from fans and corporations to fund their operations. During every game, the Cotuit Kettle is passed around for fans to drop donations into. In addition, a nightly 50/50 raffle offers numerous prizes for fans to win.   Neighborhood 3   Cotuit is a quintessential Cape Cod village surrounded on three sides by water. Called “Little Harvard” back in the day due to its popularity among Harvard professors who would spend their summer vacations there, Cotuit has an area of only five square miles.   Lowell Park is located just blocks from Cotuit Bay and Main Street. Visiting fans will find some fantastic golf courses and picturesque beaches near the ballpark. Main Street runs near Lowell Park and contains several quaint shops and excellent places to eat. Locals swear that the lobster roll at the nearby Kettle-Ho Tavern is the best on Cape Cod, which is high praise indeed.   More dining and shopping options can be found at Nearby Mashpee Commons, located at the junction of Routes 28 and 151. After the game, get some of the best ice cream on Cape Cod, at Polar Cave, a kitschy neighborhood ice cream parlor featuring dozens of flavors and loaded with Coca-Cola memorabilia.   Fans 4   Crowds at Kettleer games are similar to those at the other Cape League games, with a mix of locals and tourists present. If you are looking to avoid the larger crowds, try and attend a game in June before tourist season picks up steam. Cotuit generally draws around 1,000 fans per game, good for the middle of the pack in the Cape League. Fans who come to games on the Cape are, for the most part, very knowledgeable about the game of baseball, and are really into the game being played, despite the laid-back atmosphere at the park. You'll be sure to know your neighbors very well after nine innings of baseball. Lowell Park feels more like a neighborhood gathering than a baseball game.   Access 4   Cotuit is located on the southern coast of Cape Cod, about halfway between Falmouth and Hyannis. Lowell Park is located a little over a mile off Route 28, which runs parallel to the coastline. There is no public transportation serving the area, so driving is the best way to reach Lowell Park.   Parking is available in a small lot adjacent to the ballpark (beware of foul balls if parking here), on the streets around Lowell Park (just watch the signs, as some areas are restricted), and in a nearby elementary school parking lot.   Once inside Lowell Park, seating consists mainly of two newly constructed grandstands on either baseline. Both grandstands are handicapped accessible. Fans wishing to bring their lawn chairs will find ample room in a grove down the left field line. Picnic tables and benches here provide shaded seating and room to roam. Fans can walk around the field and watch the action from any number of vantage points.   Permanent structures behind the third base grandstand house the concession stand and restrooms.   Return on Investment 5   As is the case with all Cape League games, there is no charge for admission to games at Lowell Park. Donations are happily accepted in return for a roster sheet. Parking is also free, either in the small lot adjacent to the field, on some local streets, or in a nearby elementary school parking lot.   Food prices are reasonable, and fans can bring their food to the game if they choose. It is entirely possible to attend a game featuring some of the best collegiate baseball players in the country without spending a single red cent.   Extras 4   Some of the finest collegiate talents in the country spend their summers on the Cape. The league boasts that over 370 Cape League alumni play in the Major Leagues annually. Over 1,600 Cape League alums have played in the Majors. Whenever you take in a game at Lowell Park, you’ll be seeing numerous future big leaguers in action.   Surrounding the plaza behind home plate is a building that houses the press box, team store, and scout's seating. Circling this area are plaques atop several posts honoring the 17 Kettleer championship teams. Identified on these plaques are the coach, MVP, and Outstanding Pitcher for each team. Cape Cod Hall of Fame inductees are honored on the wall of the concession stand. Visiting fans will find some familiar names listed here.   The recent facility improvements which added to the Kettleer experience without affecting the natural environment of Lowell Field earn another extra point.   Final Thoughts   Lowell Park is a jewel among summer league parks.  In addition to Cotuit's picturesque location, Cape League lineups are loaded with future Major League players. This combination makes a visit to Cape Cod a must for any baseball fan. Just remember to put a few dollars in the kettle when it’s passed around, and “Have a Hit!”   Follow Paul Baker’s stadium journeys on Twitter  and Instagram  @PuckmanRI.

Nothing says "summer" in North America more than taking in a ballgame in a small-town ballpark. While in recent years traditional minor league baseball has contracted, summer wood-bat leagues are exploding all across the continent, to the point where it's hard to even keep up with all the new leagues and teams sprouting up all in towns and cities everywhere. For many towns, summer ball has allowed their local ballpark to stay in use after being abandoned by affiliated baseball. In others, new ballparks have been built to accommodate the new team. Summer ball offers baseball fans an affordable entertainment option throughout the summer months. Stadium Journey has visited 175 Summer Collegiate ballparks across 27 leagues. Listed below, in alphabetical order, are some of our highest-rated and favorite ballparks. To see the full review, simply click on the stadium/team link. Hope you enjoy it! Shirley Povich Field - Bethesda Big Train - Cal Ripken League Gregory Koch - The Big Train have certainly succeeded in creating a top-notch community baseball experience in Bethesda. On a warm summer night (or the occasional 10 AM Sunday game), baseball fans in Montgomery County will certainly want to make the trip to Shirley Povich Field. It is baseball fun for seasoned fans, young families, and everyone in between. Bowen Field - Bluefield Ridge Runners - Appalachian League Lloyd Brown - Bowen Field is one of the treasures of minor league baseball. Though it does not have many of the bells and whistles of more modern stadiums, it more than makes up for it in small-town friendliness, a beautiful natural setting and a community and their ball team putting their best efforts to ensure you have an enjoyable night at the ballpark. Veteran's Field - Chatham Anglers - Cape Cod League Paul Baker - In a league full of unique parks, Chatham offers an experience that may top them all. It has a real vintage charm, and the view from the top of the outfield berm simply can’t be beaten. NelsonCorp Field - Clinton Lumberkings - Prospect League James Hilchen - FieldCorp Field takes fans back in time to when baseball was about taking in the experience of what was happening on the field, rooting for your players and against the opposing team. For a true baseball fan, this is a fabulous venue. Lowell Park - Cotuit Kettleers - Cape Cod League Paul Baker - Lowell Park is a jewel among summer league parks.  In addition to Cotuit's picturesque location, Cape League lineups are loaded with future Major League players. This combination makes a visit to Cape Cod a must for any baseball fan. Just remember to put a few dollars in the kettle when it’s passed around, and “Have a Hit!” Danville Stadium - Danville Dans - Prospect League Marc Viquez - At one time, Danville Stadium was slated for the wrecking ball and left to rot after the Milwaukee Brewers relocated their Single-A team after the 1982 season. Aren’t we somewhat better off having baseball played at Danville Stadium and other buildings of its kind? It is good to know that there are still old-school parks left to watch baseball at these days. American Legion Field - Danville Otterbots - Appalachian League Gregory Koch - An Otterbots game is an enjoyable way to spend a warm summer night watching a baseball game. With an intimate stadium and a crazy mascot, it's affordable fun for the whole family. League Stadium - Dubois County Bombers - Ohio Valley League Marc Viquez - A wonderful and charming little stadium in southern Indiana that is somewhat of a drive for some in the state, but perhaps a drive that is well worth it since there is not quite another ballpark like it in the Hoosier State. Dunn Field - Elmira Pioneers - Perfect Game League Marc Viquez - The charm of Dunn Field would be enough to attract any ballpark traveler to Elmira. The amply-sized stadium has the look and feel of many great minor league ballparks that are no longer around. It is clean, spacious, and ideal for a relaxing day of baseball viewing. Eagle Field at Veterans Memorial Park - Harrisonburg Turks - Valley League Gregory Koch - It is indisputable that Eagle Field at Veterans Memorial Park is the most modern facility in the Valley League. While the older venues certainly have their charm in their way, the Turks manage to create the same great atmosphere there is elsewhere in the league in a more modern stadium with all the amenities that come with. Capital Credit Union Park - Green Bay Rockers - Northwoods League Marc Viquez - Capital Credit Union Park is by far one of the most curious places to watch a baseball game during the summer months. Its design and features best suit a soccer match but it’s full of popular areas and affordable food and concessions items that make it a nice destination for fans in the area. TVA Credit Union Ballpark - Johnson City Doughboys - Appalachian League Marc Viquez - There’s a reason that TVA Credit Union Ballpark has been a class act for so many years in the Appalachian League. It continues that trend as a summer collegiate venue in 2021 but still offers all of the great atmosphere and fun from its days as a Rookie League ballpark. Joe Becker Stadium - Joplin Outlaws - MINK League Alex Mailes - Joe Becker Stadium offers the feeling of small-town baseball at a high level for an affordable price. There are plenty of promotions and games for fans to keep things exciting and Joplin has plenty to offer if you find yourself bored after the game. Homer Stryker Field - Kalamazoo Growlers - Northwoods League Steve Ohnsmann - Given the remarkable number of creative additions in the last year provided by the Growlers in their close working relationship with the city, this venue is a must-see experience. Considering that they offer college wood bat baseball, they are offering a product that competes with class A minor league parks. Alumni Field - Keene Swamp Bats - New England League Paul Baker - It’s readily apparent once you step foot into Alumni Field why it’s one of the marquee venues in the New England Collegiate League. Take an unforgettable setting, add in great fan support, enthusiastic staff, and tons of extra features and you have all the elements of a fantastic place to catch a ballgame. Simmons Field - Kenosha Kingfish - Northwoods League Eric Hasman - The Kenosha Kingfish have regenerated life back into the old ballpark. The recent renovations greatly improve the ballpark. According to some fans, there are more renovations planned for the upcoming off-season. This ballpark is a place one should visit. There is history and fun all over the park. Hunter Wright Stadium - Kingsport Axemen - Appalachian League Lloyd Brown - Each off-season the stadium is evaluated for what can be done to improve the fan experience and the changes are implemented. This is rewarded by the most loyal fan following in the league, multiple sellouts, and a definite desire to return for future games. Kapco Park - Lakeshore Chinooks - Northwoods League Marc Viquez - Kapco Park offers great concessions and an atmosphere that reminds me why I enjoy traveling around the country and visiting ballparks. The wait was worth it, a fine ballpark experience. Luther Williams Field - Macon Bacon - Coastal Plain League Lloyd Brown - Just as bacon has seen a renaissance as a food item, the Macon Bacon has brought about a renaissance for baseball in the Middle Georgia area. This Bacon recipe of baseball in a historic structure… seasoned with a few modern elements to meet the taste of today’s fans… is high in fun and low in cost. The Bacon Nation is sure to come back for a second helping. Warner Park - Madison Mallards - Northwoods League Marc Viquez - The Madison Mallards might be the O.G.'s of packing in exciting crowds in summer-collegiate baseball. Before the Savannah Bananas brought record numbers to their ballpark, the Mallards were among the leaders in baseball in average attendance numbers at Warner Park. Athletic Park - Medicine Hat Mavericks - Western Major League Jim Flannery - The Mavericks have been a consistent contender in the WMBL for most of their franchise history. Coming out to see a game in a lovely, relaxing environment, with friendly people is a great way to spend a summer evening in “The Hat.” Holman Stadium - Nashua Silver Knights - Futures League Paul Baker - Holman Stadium is a quaint ballpark that has likely seen the end of its days as a professional facility. With Northeast Delta Dental Stadium located 20 minutes to the north and LaLacheur Park located 20 minutes to the south, there are just not enough fans for the affiliated ball in the area. Rebel Park - New Market Rebels - Valley League Gregory Koch - For baseball fans in Virginia, the Valley Baseball League is a hidden gem and the New Market Rebels are no exception. Those in New Market certainly know about the team and passionately follow it, but a trip to Rebel Park is well worth it for those who don’t live here as well. Cardines Field - Newport Gulls - New England League Paul Baker - They certainly don’t build them like Cardines Field anymore. This historic ballpark, filled with features not seen anywhere else, is a relic from another time. Cardines Field is frequently mentioned as one of the top places in the country to watch summer wood-bat baseball. Seaman Stadium - Okotoks Dawgs - Western Major League Richard Smith -Seaman Stadium is a wonderful ballpark, especially for the collegiate summer league level. There are likely to be affiliated minor teams that would be jealous of this fine facility. First Responder Field - Olney Cropdusters - Cal Ripken Sr. League Gregory Koch - Although First Responder Field isn’t quite finished yet, an Olney Cropdusters game is still an enjoyable way to spend a summer evening as long as you remember to bring your chairs. Once the permanent seating and lights are added for the 2023 season, and hopefully, a better sound system, the atmosphere here will be even better. Eldredge Park - Orleans Firebirds - Cape Cod League Paul Baker - Baseball has been played at Eldredge Park since 1913. As a member of the Firebirds' staff put it, "We have three things going for us in Orleans. We have the best beaches on the Cape, we have the hill, and we have the history." War Memorial Stadium - Peninsula Pilots - Coastal Plain League Gregory Koch - There is no doubt that War Memorial Stadium is an old ballpark. While it doesn't have all the bells and whistles of more modern facilities in the CPL and elsewhere in the area, the energy at Peninsula Pilots game is top-notch. Sinsheimer Stadium - San Luis Obispo Blues - California League Meg Minard - San Luis Obispo is a small but vibrant, entertaining town to visit and well worth a stop for any traveller.  Attending a game at Sinsheimer Stadium provides an excellent baseball experience in a community that supports it well. John Moxie Memorial Stadium - Staunton Braves - Valley League Gregory Koch - What John Moxie Memorial Stadium lacks in flashiness it makes up for in charm. Baseball has been played at this site for over a century. Although Moxie Stadium doesn’t have the amenities of modern stadiums, and it certainly would never be mistaken for one, it is a gorgeous, historic stadium to watch a game on a summer’s night at a great price. Trenton Thunder Ballpark - Trenton Thunder - MLB Draft League Marc Viquez - It seems like only yesterday that the team arrived and spearheaded a movement toward ballpark construction in the state. However, the ballpark still stands out as a beauty and provides a highly enjoyable baseball experience. Shepherd Stadium - Tri-City Chili Peppers - Coastal Plain League Gregory Koch - Although Shepherd Stadium is almost 75 years old, you wouldn’t know it from attending a Chili Peppers game here. The stadium has all the amenities and excitement of a newer stadium. Centennial Field - Vermont Lake Monsters - Futures League Paul Baker - Centennial Field, while an older facility, offers many modern amenities and enough comforts to keep today’s fan happy. With a decidedly small-town feel, this ballpark belongs on any baseball fan’s must-see list. Oregon Trail Park Stadium - Western Nebraska Pioneers - Independence League Meg Minard - It is so, so comfortable here. The seats are wide, there’s plenty of legroom , the fans are energized, and the Pioneers staff is ready to assis, if needed. It’s still more about the game than the extra stuff but there’s enough of that to keep non-purists entertained. Historic Bowman Field - Williamsport Crosscutters - MLB Draft League Gregory Koch - Baseball has been played at Bowman Field for almost 100 years and you can feel a part of the history when stepping in here. However, this very much feels like a modern ballpark as well, not an old decrepit one that is falling apart. Yakima County Stadium - Yakima County Pippens - West Coast League Richard Smith - The Yakima Valley Pippins and Yakima County Stadium is a perfect spot to watch a summer collegiate league team. The stadium is past its prime for minor-league baseball. but is perfect for this level of ball.

Photos by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.86 Limeport Stadium 1488 Limeport Pike Coopersburg, PA 18036 Blue Mountain League website Limeport Stadium website Year Opened: 1933 Capacity: 1.070 A Hidden Treasure in Limeport, Pa. Somewhere through the rolling hills and farmland hides Limeport Stadium, a historic ballpark that's been home to amateur and high school baseball since 1933. Its capacity is 1,100 and was the brainchild of Howard “Lefty” Fegley, a local dairy farmer who had such a passion for the game that he employed 75-100 workers at a rate of 10-14 cents an hour to construct a ballpark adjacent to his home and dairy farm. The final cost of the stadium has been debated at between $22,000 to $75,000. It was constructed to resemble Shibe Park in Philadelphia and to meet the growing need for baseball in the community. The stadium was built to last and no expense was spared; its solid brick structure, metal trusses, curved covered grandstand, and framed windows have virtually remained unchanged since its opening day. On July 30, 1933, the Limeport Milkmen of the East Penn Baseball League played in front of an overflow crowd of 4,000 fans. The highly competitive amateur league would operate until 1950, but perish along with many other leagues around this era. However, baseball of the high school, tournament, and amateur varieties would continue to play inside Fegley’s palace. There are well over 100 games played annually from late March to early September in Limeport, Pennsylvania. The stadium maintains its objective of providing amateur baseball in the Lehigh Valley. The Limeport Bulls and Dodgers of the Blue Mountain League, Southern Lehigh Senior High School, Central Catholic High School, and Connie Mack Baseball League operate out of Limeport Stadium from April to September. Limeport Stadium Incorporated owns and maintains the stadium; a non-profit organization of over fifty volunteers who handle everything from cutting the grass to cleaning the bathrooms. In 1990, the LSI saved the facility when it was in danger of seizure by the IRS due to unpaid taxes and penalties. The organization is coming close to meeting its objective of collecting $275,000 for new lights at the stadium that have been in use since 1984. Food & Beverage 4 Limeport Stadium has a concession stand underneath the grandstand that offers more than one would expect at this level of baseball. Fans can enjoy hot dogs, peanuts, and soda; but also beef jerky, corn dogs, deep-fried pierogies, and chicken nuggets. The concession stand offers candy and ice cream for dessert. However, if looking for a beer, good luck elsewhere; the stadium is alcoholic-free. Atmosphere 4 Limeport Stadium is an original with original wood seats, windows, doors, a covered grandstand, and a brick exterior. It exists off a two-lane road surrounded by houses, a grass parking lot, and a row of corn stalks behind the wooden fence in left field. Its most striking display of might is the center field wall looming 485 feet from home plate. Six small pine trees serve as the batter’s eye with a flagpole as the centerpiece that is in play. There is also a large incline in the outfield due to a large boulder underneath the field that was too expensive to level during the stadium’s construction. The steep slope in the outfield might be the largest incline in a ballpark, amateur or professional, in the country. The stadium has seen a few renovations this decade to improve the fan experience and access. The new entrance to the seating area was moved behind home plate and replaced the 17-stair climb to the top row of the stadium in 2011; the following year the concession stand expanded to the ground floor near the entrance from atop the main stands underneath the roof. Fans are completely covered underneath the grandstand roof houses nine rows of green-painted wood seats that feature fans on the ceiling and a small booth for public announcements. The seats are as old as the stadium and sometimes need replacing, 900 of the 1,070 seats remain. Neighborhood 3 The stadium is located on farmland and sprawling hills 10 miles from the bustling towns of Allentown, however, the area feels miles away from the commercial and interstate traffic of the rest of the Lehigh Valley. The Limeport Inn is a trendy restaurant, featuring appetizers of cornmeal fried calamari, duck confit taquitos, and mussels from Prince Edward Island, and for dinner rack of lamb, scallops, and steak options. The outdoor patio is perfect on a warm, summer day and is an ideal place to eat before the game. Fans 3 There is an array of fans who are there to watch friends and family members on the ballfield, but also many who enjoy watching an amateur baseball game in an actual stadium. You can even spot a few wearing Limeport Stadium attire. The stadium is home to the Dodgers and Bulls of the Blue Mountain League, with two area high schools, and the Connie Mack Tournament in late July. There is quite a range of fans who take in games at Limeport Stadium. Access 4 The stadium is 3 miles south of SR-309 and I-78 on the Limeport Pike. It is a scenic drive down the two-lane highway as you approach the ballpark on the right-hand side of the road. Return on Investment 5 Ticket prices are $3 for adults and $1 for children, a small price to pay for any level of baseball in a historic facility. Concession prices are also very affordable along with merchandise that does not cost more than $15. The grass-covered parking lot is ample and free of charge. Extras 4 1 star for the dedicated service of the LSI who put forth an insurmountable amount of time maintaining the ballpark and keeping it up to code for various baseball games throughout the season. Since its inception in 1988, the organization has raised over $100,000 for stadium improvements and renovations. Without their support, the stadium may only exist in both memory and photographs 2 stars for some of the lore that exists at the ballpark including a beagle buried underneath the third base area and the home run that cleared the centerfield fence by Alex Sabo. 3 stars for the original wooden seats that provide a surprising comfort 85 years after they were installed inside the park. Sorry, the seats do not provide cup holders. 4 stars for the giant sloping hill in center field that also creates a topic of conversation during the game, usually a 7-inning affair. The park receives a final point for old photos and news clippings found throughout the stadium. There is a lot of history here and sometimes finding it online is not that easy, thankfully there are a lot of facts and figures about Athletic Park, the Chaska Cubs, and other ball clubs who have played here. Final Thoughts Limeport Stadium is somewhat off the radar of ballparks for many a sports traveler. However, this could be a good thing, since the atmosphere, location, and setting do not feel altered from when Mr. Fegley first played baseball at this site. The ballpark is a pure treat for anyone who enters through its doors and takes a seat underneath its roof. If he were alive today, you could bet he would be smiling that his stadium is still being put to good use. I am sure somewhere he is grinning at this very moment. ----- Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter @ballparkhunter   and his YouTube channel .  Email at Marc.Viquez@stadiumjourney.com

Photos by Meg Minard, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.14 Albert Park Field 100 Albert Park Ln San Rafael, CA 94901 San Rafael Pacifics website Albert Park Field website Year Opened: 1952 Renovated: 2011 Capacity: 900 Pacifics of San Rafael The baseball team San Rafael Pacifics began their existence in 2012 as members of the now defunct North American League.  The Pacifics have been a successful team since their inception. They played in the Pacific Association from 2013 – 2019, claiming four championships during their tenure in that league.  In 2020, they moved to the Independent Pecos League, but no games were played that year because of the pandemic.  They won the Pecos League championship in 2023 and were the Pacific Division Champions in 2024.   They play their home games at historic Albert Park Field in San Rafael, CA Food & Beverage 3 Albert Park Field has one concession stand beyond the first base side of the grandstand.  It sells fresh-grilled hot dogs, hamburgers, and cheeseburgers ($6 - $8).  It also offers cups of noodles, mac and cheese, chicken bake, and chicken rice bowls ($3 - $7).  Snacks include popcorn, candy, cookies, chips, and beef jerky ($1 - $5).  The concession stand has six different ice cream novelties ($2 - $3).  Non-alcoholic beverages cost $2 - $4 and are a mix of soda cans (primarily Coca-Cola brands), water, Gatorade, and coffee/hot chocolate. A beer cart has an extensive collection of canned beers, including domestic, 805, Pacifico, and many delicious choices from Pond Farm, a local San Rafael brewery and sponsor. It’s not a gourmet meal, but there are some unusual choices, and it is enough to get you by during a game.  Get a Pond Farm beer and a fresh grilled hot dog, and you’ll be set! Atmosphere 3 The San Rafael Pacifics provide an enjoyable evening out for the whole family. Built in 1952, the stadium has an old box-style grandstand with seven rows of original blue wood bleachers with backs.  The seats are surprisingly comfortable. The grandstand steps do not have handrails, making it difficult for fans with mobility difficulties to ascend.  The stadium has a small walkway between the main stand and “box seats.”  The “box seats” are eight sets of two rows, eight patio chairs each.  The seating is shaded, and there is no breeze.  The field is nice and green, though a ball can take bad or strange hops on the infield.  The center field is unique as it is part of the opposite softball field.  The center fielder stands on dirt, not grass. Photo Courtesy of the City of San Rafael A black net protects the fans but is not easy to see through.  The scoreboard and flagpole inhabit right field.  New in 2016, the scoreboard is a dot matrix showing balls, strikes, outs, and the line score.  The right field backdrop is a beautiful hill with green trees and a few houses.  It is pleasing to the eye. Another unusual feature is the dugouts.  The dugouts are two fenced-in areas on the field in front of the stands, with folding chairs for the players.  The music volume level is perfect and the game day operations thankfully do not play ‘noise’ between pitches.  More ball teams should take notice.  The PA announcer’s voice is muffled; you can’t always understand what he’s saying. The organization posts the starting lineups.  That’s not the case at all Pecos League parks.  It’s an excellent feature for those who like to keep score. Plenty of activities occur between innings:  the YMCA dance, hula hoops, musical chairs, kids running the bases, and more.  Neighborhood 3 The ballpark is a few blocks from the downtown area.  For places to eat pre-game, try the Red Rooster Brick Oven (Italian), The Stateroom (gastropub), or Sol Food (Puerto Rican).  Of course, stop at the Pond Farm Brewery for a cold one or visit the Mayflower Pub or the Flatiron (sports bars and pubs).  The Panama Hotel (a boutique hotel) is probably the closest to the Albert Park Field (less than a ½ mile).  An AC Hotel San Rafael Downtown (a Marriott brand hotel) is at about the same distance.  Several lower-budget hotels (Motel 6, Best Western, Travelodge) are off the US 101 a mile or two away. Tourist attractions in San Rafael include the Marin History Museum.  Muir Woods National Park is a 30-minute drive away and is worthy of a visit.  McNears Beach Park is close by and a lovely place for outdoor activities.   Of course, you’re a bridge away from San Francisco and all the attractions that city has to offer. For other sports to see when in town, see if the SF Giants are home; other Pecos League teams nearby include Martinez Sturgeon or Vallejo Seaweed .  Or check on the Sonoma Stompers (summer collegiate baseball). Fans 3 Attendance generally runs a few hundred fans.  Fans can bring their dogs.  Lots of children are in attendance. Visitors will see generations of families sitting in the grandstand. One fan posts Ks near the press box to record the number of strikeouts the Pacifics’ pitchers get. Albert Park Field Ks, Photo by Meg Minard, Stadium Journey It’s easy to strike up a conversation with fans sitting near you. Access 3 Depending on where your travels originate, you may hit some of that famous California traffic, so be cognizant of that.  The park is less than ½ mile off US 101.  It is .4 miles from the San Rafael Transit Center, a hub for regional and local buses, and a stop on the Sonoma Marin Area Rail Transit.  The closest airport is a small regional one, the Sonoma County Airport, having three commercial airlines servicing mostly western cities.  The San Francisco International Airport is about an hour’s drive away.  If driving, I recommend parking at the lot on the corner of Andersen Dr and Lindaro St.  It’s free, easy to exit after the game, and is just across the street from the ballpark. The stadium is not that easy for fans in wheelchairs, though a ramp goes up to the grandstand on the third base side.  I did not see a way for people using wheelchairs to get to the concession stand (but there must be a way, right?). New, clean, big restrooms are on ground level on the third base side and will easily accommodate a wheelchair.  Like many public restrooms in California, they are gender-neutral.  Return on Investment 4 Ten dollars for general admission seats, free parking, reasonably-priced concessions, and a fun time make a Pacifics game at Albert Park well worth the price.  . Extras 3 The city of San Rafael and the Pacifics consistently make alterations and improvements to Albert Park for the betterment of the fans.  Examples include the new scoreboard, upgraded restrooms, and new fencing along the ADA ramp and in front of the dugout.  It’s excellent to see local brews at the beer stand at Albert Park. The configuration of the baseball and softball fields is definitely uncommon and worth an extra mention. Final Thoughts If you find yourself in the Bay Area, take a trip to San Rafael for an affordable, entertaining baseball game.

Photos by Meg Minard, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.14 Chukchansi Park 1800 Tulane St Fresno, CA 93721 Map It Fresno Grizzlies website Chukchansi Park website Year Opened: 2002 Capacity: 10,650 Single-A in a Triple-A Chukchansi Park (formerly known as Grizzlies Stadium) hosts the California League minor league baseball Fresno Grizzlies.  Fresno’s first baseball team began in 1898, and the sport has been played in the city off and on since.  The most current iteration moved to Fresno when the Phoenix Firebirds relocated in 1998. The Fresno Grizzlies moved from being the Houston Astros AAA affiliate to the Colorado Rockies Single-A affiliate when MLB overhauled and restructured t he minor leagues in 2021.  The Grizzlies have also been affiliates of the San Francisco Giants and the Washington Nationals. In Nov 2023, DBH (Diamond Baseball Holdings) purchased the Grizzlies and now owns and operates it, along with 35 other minor league ball clubs. Chukchansi is a Native American Indian tribe in central California known for their beliefs in advocating early learning and giving students the tools they need to succeed, including the continued education of their historical culture. The tribe owns and operates the Chukchansi Gold Resort and Casino, 40 miles north of Fresno.  That casino owns the naming rights to downtown Fresno’s Chukchansi Park. Food & Beverage 3 Chukchansi Park offers a decent variety of food and beverage choices.  Concession st ands offer hot dogs, corn dogs, burgers, chicken tenders, pizza, fries, and garlic fries ($5 - $14).  They also sell a wing helmet basket for $25.   Snacks include pretzels, popcorn, cookies, chips, peanuts, nachos, etc.  Pepsi provides soft drinks.  At Chukchansi Park, the beer choices are better than average.  The permanent concession stands sell it on tap or in a can.   A can of beer is $9.  The best place for IPA lovers’ beer is a stand-alone cart near section 117 with almost ten varieties of IPAs.  The Oppo Taco concession, way down the first baseline, is a great place to visit.  They provide local craft brews and tacos or chorizos. Wine, cocktails, frozen margaritas, and homemade sangria are available at this stand. The venue has a new bar and social gathering spot with furniture and drink rails down the third baseline. Atmosphere 3 Chukchansi Park is a good-looking stadium and offers all you would expect from minor-league baseball.  Three levels of seating are available, with suites on the top level.  The seats are standard green fold-down stadium chairs with cupholders, average width, and average legroom.  All seats are in the shade, and the venue even has much-needed misters on the concourse.  Like many minor league parks, the nets go to the foul poles.   Chukchansi Park Mist, Photo by Meg Minard, Stadium Journey Bullpens are on the field just beyond first base (home) and third base (awa y).  One can sit in the low row numbers in section 122 (home) or 106 (away) and be right smack in front of them.  A manual scoreboard is in right-center field, which is a fabulous idea.  The stadium has a new scoreboard in left-center field which shows the line score, player stats, pitcher and batter stats, and an abundance of advertisements.  Good stuff. The interior concourse is remarkably wide, with plenty of room to navigate.  The Grizzlies post the starting lineups clearly on a first base concourse wall. The overall music volume is perfect, but the PA announcer is muffled.  The game day music person thankfully plays minimal ‘noise’ between pitches.  Between-inning contests are innocent and non-invasive and provide just the right amount of minor league entertainment while giving fans something besides baseball enjoyment.  Entertainment involves hug cams, taco races, sumo wrestling races, and the like.  The team displays fireworks after every Friday night home game.  A kid’s play area and splash park are in right field.  Kids get to run the bases after Sunday games (and get free ice cream).  Neighborhood 3 Chukchansi Park is in downtown Fresno, with plenty of places to explore before a Grizzlies game.  The area has lots of festivities (at least on weekends). Downtown Fresno is in the midst of a revitalization with a new brewery district, additional public transportation, outdoor public art, and new apartments. Places to eat and drink near Chukchansi Park include Kocky’s Bar and Grill (sports bar) and Los Panchos (Mexican Restaurant and Cantina).  It’s best to go pregame as these places close early during the week. Local brewery Tioga-Sequoia is just around the block from the ballpark.  Procreations Brewing Company is three blocks away, and Full Circle Taproom and The 411 Rec Room (pub) are within walking distance.  Hotels within walking distance are the SureStay by Best Western Fresno Central and the DoubleTree by Hilton Conference Center.  The La Quinta Inn Fresno Yosemite is a mile away. Other things to visit include the Veterans Memorial Museum (a half mile from the park) and the Fresno Chaffee Zoo (about three miles from the ballpark).  Yosemite, Kings Canyon, and Sequoia National Parks are an hour to an hour and a half’s drive, and all are well worth the visit if in Fresno. Other sports in Fresno include the Fresno State Bulldogs, and the Fresno Monsters (junior ice hockey). Fans 3 The Grizzlies’ average attendance has been near 4,200 per game the last few years, putting them at the top of the pack in attendance in the California League.  A few diehard fans sit at the top of the section behind home plate and often bring banners or posters.  The fans do heckle and applaud good (and poor) plays and calls.  The fans in attendance are thoroughly supportive of the team. All staff and fans welcome visitors and make you feel welcome and glad you are there.  It's such a nice feeling. Access 4 It’s easy to get in and out of the area and find parking. Ten-dollar lots are around the park.  If you are staying downtown, it’s just a couple blocks walk.  Fans should not feel threatened or unsafe walking to and from the stadium.  Fresno has an extensive bus system called FAX (Fresno Area Express).  Route 28 looks to be the one to take, but check the FAX website first. The closest airport (a very nice one) is Fresno Yosemite International Airport (FAT), a 12 – 15 min drive to the ballpark.  An Amtrak station is also within walking distance (1/2 mile) of downtown and the ballpark. Once in the stadium, the concourses are wide open and easy to navigate.  Restrooms are sufficient and serve their purpose. Ramp access is available at any of the entrances, and there are plenty of accessible seating choices.  The Fresno Grizzlies just recently incorporated a clear bag-only policy. Clear bags up to 16” x 16” x 8” and small clutches up to 5” x 8” are allowed.  It is supposed to speed up entry into the park. Return on Investment 3 Ticket prices run from $10 - $65 (five dollars more for premium nights, including all Friday and Saturday games).  A recommendation is to buy the cheap seats and sit anywhere you want, as the venue does not sell out often.  Just move to another seat if those ticket holders show up. The Grizzlies offer daily specials such as Two for Tuesdays (2 for 1 ticket, $2 soda, and ice cream), Tioga Thursdays (two 19.2 oz beers for $10), Save Mart Sundays (bring your receipt and get $5 off each ticket), and the like.  Plenty of promotions occur throughout the season, including fireworks, Christian fellowship night, bark in the park, diversity and inclusion night, back-to-school night, heritage nights, and so on.  Check the team’s website for all the specials and promotions. If watching the ball game is the main purpose for visiting Chukchansi Park, this is actually quite a perfect minor league baseball experience. It costs $10 to park (seems high, to me, for Single-A ball).   Concessions are reasonably priced, and the team offers deals on certain days.  Extras 3 The revitalization of downtown Fresno is extremely noticeable.  Thanks to the local businesses, the community, and the city for its continued efforts to restore the downtown area to what it once was, but better.  The most recent updates to Chukchansi Park are the new scoreboard and lights. I love manual scoreboards and am ever so pleased the Grizzlies have continued to maintain the one the ballpark provides. Chukchansi Park Manual Scoreboard, Photo by Meg Minard, Stadium Journey I was fortunate to attend a Fiesta Oso featuring the Lowriders de Fresno.  The Grizzlies dressed as the Lowriders, and the venue displayed many customized cars during the festival.  Final Thoughts Although the team moved from a Triple-A to a Single-A affiliation a few years ago, attending a ballgame at Chukchansi Park is still an enjoyable day/evening out with good baseball.  For those who live in Central California, I encourage you to visit Fresno and the ballpark.   For those who haven’t been to the city in a while, you’ll be pleased with the resurgence of the downtown area.

Photos by Joseph Oakes, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.00 Virginia Credit Union Stadium 42 Jackie Robinson Way Fredericksburg, VA 22401 Fredericksburg Nationals website Virginia Credit Union Stadium website Year Opened: 2021 Capacity: 5,000 NATional Pastime After years of playing in the decrepit Pfitzner Stadium in Woodbridge, VA, the Potomac Nationals were set to move 30 miles south to Fredericksburg and become the Fredericksburg Nationals in 2020. Since the 2020 season was canceled due to COVID-19, the move to the new ballpark was delayed by a year. The sparkling new Fredericksburg Nationals Ballpark officially opened for minor league baseball on May 11, 2021, with a 7-5 loss to the Delmarva Shorebirds in front of a crowd of 2,065, since Virginia was still under COVID capacity restrictions. The FredNats began their inaugural season in Fredericksburg with 15 straight losses, and the first win at the new ballpark did not come until a 2-1 win over the Salem Red Sox on May 21, 2021. The ballpark has since been renamed Virginia Credit Union Stadium. The FredNats have only been in Fredericksburg four years, but are already a staple in the community. The team draws well and the ballpark hosts many events throughout the year. Food & Beverage 4 Virginia Credit Union Stadium offers a wide variety of food options. While the food quality at many ballparks seems to have waned in recent years, Fredericksburg is an exception to this. Caroline Street Grill has two locations in the ballpark and serves up traditional ballpark favorites such as Chicken Tenders, Cheeseburger, Hot Dogs, Chili Cheese Nachos, Ballpark Nachos, Jumbo Pretzels, Cracker Jacks, Popcorn, etc. They even offer a plant-based Veggie Burger. Burg’s Bazaar offers taco options including street tacos, Helmet Nachos (in a FredNats Helmet), and a taco bowl. On Tuesdays, the ballpark offers $2 tacos. Other stands scattered around the ballpark include Chick-fil-A and Freddie’s Frozen Custard. There is also a large area in right field that has a liquor bar, popcorn, and Dippin’ Dots. There are two grab-n-go areas through the park, where fans can purchase bottled drinks and snacks self-serve, and use self-checkout to pay. The ballpark serves Pepsi products. There are several local brew options including the team’s own Sluggin’ Gus named for George Washington’s father and the team mascot. Prices tend to be a little high but are on par with what you would expect at most ballparks. Also, we noticed on our visit and also heard from fans that concession lines are extremely long and slow. Therefore, we suggest the grab-n-go areas. Atmosphere 5 Virginia Credit Union Stadium is designed similarly to many minor league ballparks these days, with the concourse above the single-seating bowl. Except for the areas behind home plate, there is a 360-degree concourse all around the ballpark. This is because the club level is directly on the concourse level, not above as in most ballparks. Therefore, to get from the first base to the third base side (or vice-versa), you have to walk completely around the backside of the club. There is no view of the action and it feels like you are completely leaving the ballpark. Other than that, the concourse gives you a great view of the action all around the ballpark. All seats in the ballpark are chairback and run just beyond the dugout on each side. In both the right and left field corners are terrace boxes with tables and bar stools. There are several group areas in the outfield including a scoreboard suite with a manual scoreboard operated by the fans, a field suite next to the home bullpen in left field, and several bullpen party decks adjacent to the visiting bullpen in right field. On the backside of the batter’s eye in center field is a large mural showing the “History of Baseball in Fredericksburg”. There is a large kid’s play area on artificial turf beyond the right-field foul pole. There are two ribbon boards – one above the bullpen in left field and one on the suite level overhang – and one large video board in right field. The playing surface at Virginia Credit Union Stadium is a state-of-the-art synthetic grass from Shaw Sports Turf similar to what is used by the Arizona Diamondbacks and Texas Rangers. It is the first minor league ball to use such a surface. This allows the FredNats to host several events such as concerts and youth sports without the extra cost of maintaining a natural grass surface. The team store is just adjacent to the main gate on the first base concourse. Neighborhood 4 Virginia Credit Union Stadium is located just off of I-95 in an area known as Celebrate Virginia. It consists of several stores and restaurants Target, Walmart, Barnes & Noble, Cracker Barrell, Chick-fil-A, Carrabba’s, Outback Steakhouse, Krispy Kreme Doughnuts, etc. Immediately surrounding the ballpark is a Wegmans Grocery Store, a Hilton Garden Inn, and the Fredericksburg Expo and Conference Center. The Ballpark is located at the end of Carl D. Silver Parkway, which can create a few traffic issues as there is only one way in and out. While the address is 42 Jackie Robinson Way, this is a new road so it may not show up on your GPS. Instead, point your GPS to the Fredericksburg Expo and Conference Center. Parking is available here or at the lots surrounding the ballpark for $6. While there are many restaurants and shops within a couple of miles, there is not much within walking distance, except for the Wegmans. Fans 5 In the first three years at their new ballpark, the fans have shown up in full force. One can expect a nearly full crowd for most games, especially on the weekends. Crowds average around 3,000+ during the week and 4,000-5,000 on the weekend. The fans are involved, cheer frequently, and are into the game. Being so close to their parent team in DC, there are many fans in Washington Nationals gear at Virginia Credit Union Stadium. Access 3 With only one way to and from the ballpark, plan a little extra time when going to a game. Interstate 95 is generally a parking lot from Fredericksburg to Washington, D.C., so if you are traveling via I-95, plan accordingly. Gate entry and security are pretty relaxed. Of course, you can save time by purchasing tickets ahead of time. With the size of the crowds, this is not a bad idea anyway to ensure yourself a seat. Once inside the ballpark access is a breeze on the 360-degree concourse, except the hiccup behind the club level. Return on Investment 3 This is one of the few areas where Virginia Credit Union Stadium received low marks. Ticket prices range from $15 to $22 in the seats, and are $10 for standing room only. While this is a new state-of-the-art ballpark, this is a little steep for Low-A ball. Prices like this may wear off as the newness of the ballpark fades, especially if the team stays Low-A. As previously mentioned parking is $6 in the lots surrounding the ballpark. If you are looking to cut costs, be sure to attend on Tuesdays when most tickets are $2 tickets. There are also $2 tacos on Tuesdays. Extras 4 The new ballpark receives several extra points for the following: - 360-degree concourse - Several group areas including the scoreboard suite, bullpen party decks, terrace boxes, etc. - The large kids' play area in right field - Several standing areas along the concourse with food and drink rails Final Thoughts After enduring several years of playing in a “dump” in Woodbridge, the FredNats organization now has a beautiful, brand-new ballpark it can call its own and be proud of. A night out at the new Virginia Credit Union Ballpark will be a great experience for many years to come.

Photos by Lance Sutehall, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.14 AutoZone Park 200 Union Ave Memphis, TN 38103 Memphis Redbirds website AutoZone Park website Year Opened: 2000 Capacity: 14,320 Baseballs & Blues Downtown Memphis is home to the Memphis Redbirds, the AAA affiliate of the St. Louis Cardinals since the team’s inception in 1998. After playing their first two seasons in Tim McCarver Stadium the Redbirds moved to their current home, AutoZone Park. The stadium cost $80.5 Million to build which was the most expensive minor league stadium to be built at the time. It was built in a way that it could be expanded in the event Memphis received a major league team. The Redbirds moved to the International League in 2021 after playing in the Pacific Coast League (PCL) since their inception. The Redbirds won four titles in the PCL, last winning the league in 2018. Memphis also won the AAA national championship game that same season. The Redbirds have a rivalry with the Nashville Sounds, even having an official “I-40 Cup Series” from 2012-2015. Food & Beverage 4 AutoZone Park offers several concession stands throughout the stadium. The “American Dog” stand sells a variety of hot dogs with options including a Jumbo Hot Dog ($5.50), Veggie Dog ($5.50), or a Memphis Dog ($8). This stand (as well as the other stands) sells pretzels ($6.50), popcorn ($7.50), peanuts ($5.50), cracker jacks ($5.25), & candy ($5.25). Coca-Cola branded soft drinks are offered at the ballpark with small drinks ($5.25), large drinks ($7) & “Zen” bottled water ($6) sold at “American Dog”. Domestic ($10.25) and premium ($12.25) beers are also offered at this stand. The “Farm and Foul” stand offers a Cheeseburger basket with fries ($8), double cheeseburger basket ($10.50), single cheeseburger drink combo ($12), chicken sandwich basket ($13), chicken tender basket ($12.50), black bean burger basket ($10), & a footlong corndog ($5.50). Pizzas are sold at “Slice of Memphis” with a slice ($6.50) or a whole pizza ($48) on offer. Over at the “World Famous BBQ Nachos” stand are ballpark nachos ($6.50), Rendezvous BBQ nachos ($16), sausage & cheese plate ($13.50), & funnel cakes ($8). “Nachos 901” sells souvenir BBQ nachos ($15), chili & cheese nachos ($12), and a BBQ pork sandwich with chips & coleslaw ($10.50). Finally the “Sweet Treats” stand offers ice cream cups ($6.50), ice cream cones ($7.50), typhoon root beer float ($8.25), mini melts ($6.50), Oatley ice cream bar ($6), & churros ($6). There are various food carts around the concourse to supplement the concession stands. The “Fry Cart” sells loaded fries with cheese ($8), chili & cheese ($10.50), and BBQ fries ($9.50). An “Icee Cart” offers an Icee Cup ($5.75), Frozen Icee ($8.50), ice cream bars ($5), and an Icee cookie ($4.75). The quesadilla stand sells quesadillas with cheese ($8), steak ($10.50), and chicken ($11.50). The “Memphis Hot Dog & Sausage” cart offers smoked sausage ($8), brats ($8), and fried bologna ($9). There is also a draft beer cart that sells beers and Jell-O shots ($3.50). Atmosphere 4 At the main entrance of the ballpark is a “AUTOZONE PARK” sign with an LED display that promotes upcoming events. That sign welcomes you into the fan plaza with metal plates that resemble ball players. Upon entering the venue the team store will be on the right. The concourse is open to the field throughout the entire ballpark so that you are not missing any game action while getting concessions. There are also several monitors showing the game throughout the concourse. The reserved seats are split into two levels with the vast majority being in the lower level. They are all chair backs and are close to the action no matter where you are sitting. The upper level has club seats that provide the best view of the entire ballpark. In right field is a large scoreboard where fireworks are released during the national anthem. There is another scoreboard in the left-field fence that shows scores from other games. On Fridays and Saturdays, the Redbirds offer inflatables and face painting out by left field for kids to enjoy. On “Throwback Thursdays” $2 beers and $1 hot dogs are offered and the players wear “Memphis Chicks” jerseys which are a callback to the Memphis Chicks team that was a staple in Memphis until 1960. The Redbirds put on a postgame firework display on Saturdays while kids can get a free ice cream sandwich and run the bases after games on Sundays. Neighborhood 5 There are a couple of great BBQ places next to AutoZone Park including Smurfey’s Smokehouse & Charlie Vergos Rendezvous. AutoZone Park is located near Beale Street, one of the most popular tourist spots in the United States. Beale Street is famous for its Blues clubs such as BB King’s & Blues City Cafe. Other restaurants include Silky O’ Sullivan’s for Irish fare, Dyer’s Burgers, & Flying Fish for seafood. There are several museums within walking distance of AutoZone Park including the Cotton Museum, Memphis Rock n’ Soul Museum, & the Withers Collection Museum and Gallery. The ballpark is also within walking distance from FedEx Forum, home of the NBA’s Grizzlies. Lodging options within walking distance include Hotel Indigo, DoubleTree, & Hotel Napoleon. Fans 3 Professional baseball has been a staple in Memphis since 1877 as Memphis has been home to many teams over the years. They were notably the home of the “Chicks” from 1912-1960 and the Redbirds honor that legacy by occasionally playing games with the “Chicks” nickname. Baseball fandom from the Chicks days has seemingly carried over to the Redbirds. During breaks in the game, an emcee is keeping the fans entertained. The scoreboard will also have various fan cams and other activities for fan interaction. Redbird fans have friendly banter with fans of opposing teams with games against the Nashville Sounds bringing out the most of Redbird fandom. Access 5 AutoZone Park is located in downtown Memphis not far from Beale Street and FedEx Forum. From I-55 North, take Exit 6B onto I-69 & merge off at Exit 30. Stay on the left and turn onto Highway 51 which becomes Union Street. Keep driving until AutoZone Park is on your right. From I-40 West, turn off at exit 1C and onto Highway 51 before making a right on Union Street & AutoZone Park will come up quickly on the right. From I-40 East, turn off on exit 1 after entering Tennessee and make a right on Riverside Drive. Turn left on Union Street and AutoZone Park will be on the left. Memphis offers a trolley car line that has a stop next to AutoZone Park. The trolley costs $2 for a day pass and has stops throughout downtown Memphis. Most hotels downtown and several attractions should be within walking distance of a trolley stop. There are several parking garages around the ballpark with the Redbirds endorsed ones costing about $20 to park. There is plenty of street parking within walking distance which goes for $1.50/hour until 10 pm Mondays-Saturdays. There are several gates at the main entrance of the ballpark and there is plenty of space in the fan plaza. Once inside the stadium, the concourse is wide enough to walk around easily. There are plenty of concession stands that are spread out throughout the concourse which keeps lines at a minimum. Return on Investment 4 Tickets start at $13 for general admission berm seats in the outfield. Reserved seats go for between $22-$28 depending on the view of the seat. Finally, club seats with food & drinks included cost $80. There is a $2 surcharge for games on Fridays - Sundays. If one person buys a general admission ticket to a weeknight game, parks on the street, and grabs some concessions about $35 will be spent. This is $60 for a date & a touch over $100 for a family night out. Extras 4 The venue hosted the 2003 AAA All-Star Game as well as the 2016 & 2019 AAA national championship games. AutoZone Park also hosted exhibition MLB games in 2007 & 2008. AutoZone Park is also the home of Memphis 901 FC, a professional soccer team that competes in the USL Championship. AutoZone Park is a popular stop for outdoor concerts in Memphis. Final Thoughts AutoZone Park was an expensive state-of-the-art stadium when it opened at the turn of the millennium. That may have been a good investment as the venue is still a great place to spend an evening in Memphis.

Photos by Michael Davis, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.14 Coors Field 2001 Blake St Denver, CO 80205 Colorado Rockies website Coors Field website Year Opened: 1995 Capacity: 46,897 Three Decades of Rockies Baseball Coors Field is home to Major League Baseball’s Colorado Rockies, located in downtown Denver. The ballpark opened in April 1995, built as the first baseball-only facility since Dodger Stadium in 1962. Coors Field is starting its 30th season hosting MLB baseball, making this ballpark the third-oldest stadium in the National League, behind Wrigley Field (1914) and Dodger Stadium (1962). Coors Field’s grass surface is Kentucky Bluegrass/Perennial Rye. The ballpark dimensions are asymmetrical, with the shortest being 347ft in left field versus 415ft in center and 350ft in right. The seating capacity is currently 46,897, with the capability of reaching 50,000 including standing room only tickets. Coors Field has been one of the best ballparks over the last 3 decades, with little change from the original stadium design – the most noticeable change was in 2014, when the Rockies turned 3,500 seats in right field’s upper deck into The Rooftop, a 38,000-square-foot gathering area. The Rooftop has two levels and a standing room only bar, but is open to all ticketholders, so get there early to secure a spot. Besides being the place to be at Coors Field, this area provides views of downtown Denver and the Rocky Mountains. Coors Field has hosted 2 MLB All Star Games (1998 and 2021), a World Series (2007), and a Colorado Avalanche outdoor hockey game (2016) as part of the NHL Stadium Series, along with concerts.   Food & Beverage   5 The hardest decision for fans walking into Coors Field could be what food or drinks to consume, due to the massive selection of concession options. The choices range from a stand for kids to the first brewery built in a major league ballpark, and there are also stands that cover people looking for healthy options (such as gluten-free, salads, and veggie burgers) to fans seeking more than just the typical ballpark fare. The basic fare of hot Dogs, nachos, pretzels, bratwurst, pizza, and Coca-Cola products are available throughout the ballpark at fixed or portable stands. Specialty concessions such as 505 Southwest Burrito serve burritos or chicken quesadillas, using New Mexico’s famous Hatch Valley green chiles. Coors Field also has two burger concessions that will satisfy any fan – the Smashburger concession in 303 near the rooftop area, and Helton 17 Burger Shack in left field. Helton 17 is in reference to former Rockies player Todd Helton. Biker’s Jim on the lower level in section 107 serves Elk jalapeno cheddar dogs, craft beer brats, spicy polish sausage, bacon cheddar brats, and vegan dogs. In addition there is Rocky Mountain Oysters, which feature breaded oysters and fried bull testicles (yes, this Colorado delicacy is sold inside Coors Field from section 144). Buckaroos in section 149, located on the main level concourse in left field, is a concession that is for kids. The menu consists of kid-sized hot dogs, nachos, fries, burgers, and pretzels. There is also a kid's meal to make your choice easier, which includes a small hot dog, animal crackers, apple sauce, and a prize. One of Coors Field’s staples since the ballpark opened in 1995 is Sandlot Brewery. Located behind section 113, this concession has a BBQ smokehouse and serves brisket, pulled pork, smoked sausage, and burnt ends. Coors’ Blue Moon Belgian White was first brewed at Coors Field’s Sandlot Brewery. The alcohol selections here are in abundance, including plenty of Coors products available around the stadium. However, there are very good local crafts as well, including choices from Epic Western Saloon in the outfield concourse, which is set up as a little mini beer store. The food and beverage prices at Coors Field are the typical prices you would expect when at a professional baseball game, and of course the specialty items are sold at a higher cost than the regular items.   Atmosphere   4 The Lodo district provides plenty of pre- and post-game locations for fun and entertainment, while inside Coors Field, the Rockies continue to have an above average game day experience. The ballpark also provides scenic views while watching the ballgame. The ballpark has four levels of seating, with the third being the club level; all seats have an excellent view of the game. One of the more appealing areas is the rooftop area in upper right field, where fans can meet without being attached to a seating section. There is also plenty of leg room throughout the seating area – The Rockpile section in center field has benches, and even though these seats appear to be far from the action, the view from there is good, and fans have the extra bonus of having a view of downtown Denver.   Neighborhood   5 Coors Field is located in Denver’s lower downtown or “LoDo” neighborhood – this area is full of restaurants and bars, and for that reason it is worth arriving early or staying late when attending any Rockies game. One of my favorites places in LoDo is Viewhouse Ballpark, a rooftop bar with views of both downtown Denver and Coors Field. Along Blake Street, across from Coors Field’s right field entrance, is Cherry Cricket – Cherry Cricket has a large beer selection, and you can also build your own burger. As a matter of fact, this restaurant was voted Westword’s 2024 Best Burger in Denver, and has been operating for 40 years. Across the street you can also find the rently opened 4play Kitchen and Cocktails. This eatery is a little high end for fans going to a baseball game, but it is an option. Another option is 1-Up, a vintage arcade with pub food and a full bar, located one block south of the ballpark on Blake Street. McGregor Square was created by the Colorado Rockies from an empty parking lot in 2021, and has a hotel, restaurants, and retail shops. The square’s centerpiece is a 17,000-square-foot outdoor plaza with a 66-foot-long, 20-foot-wide LED screen, where fans can watch other games of interest before or after the Rockies game. Private events are also held in this outdoor plaza, especially during the NBA or NHL playoffs if any Denver teams are involved. If you are interested in trying one of Denver’s best breweries and Colorado’s first brewpub, go to Wynkoop Brewery Company, with its pool hall/bar setting providing a great adventure. However, there are really hundreds of choices available around Coors Field, so, anyone will be able to find a favorite spot. A must-see attraction, especially for baseball fans, is located near Coors Field’s home plate entrance – the National Ballpark Museum is the only museum dedicated specifically to baseball stadiums, and fans can see relics from classic ballparks including Crosley Field, Forbes Field, the Polo Grounds, Ebbets Field, Shibe Park, and Comiskey Park. This museum tells the story of baseball in Denver, but unfortunately is closed on Sundays. There is an abundance of lodging options in downtown Denver that have easy access to Coors Field; the few that are extremely close are very expensive, however, so I would suggest doing some research if you decide to stay downtown.   Fans   2 The Colorado Rockies were around the middle of MLB attendance last season, leaving a lot of open seats in the ballpark. Much of this has more to do with the Rockies poor on-field performance, as the ballpark itself is beautiful. The small number of Rockies fans who attend are vocal, engaged, and enthusiastic, but Coors Field can feel like an opponent’s home field, especially when popular teams visit Denver. Just like any team, every fan base loves a winner – just ask the Nuggets  or the Avalanche , as attendance is solid at their games in the same city.   Access   4 Coors Field’s LoDo location in downtown Denver provides easy access via public transportation. There are buses, but the best access to Coors field is the light rail. There are three light rail routes convenient to the ballpark, including one from Denver International Airport. All three of these routes arrive at recently renovated Union Station, which is three blocks south of Coors Field on Wynkoop Street, an easy 5-minute walk to Coors Field with places nearby for pre-game food and drinks. Another option in Denver is shared bikes and scooters. The hardest access is driving to Coors Field – Denver’s traffic for a weekday game can be quite time consuming and frustrating at times. There are two official parking lots and plenty of privately owned parking facilities within a few blocks, however. There are five lettered gates at Coors Field; Gates A and E open 2 hours before the scheduled first pitch for batting practice, while the other gates open an hour and half before the game. The most popular gate is Gate D, behind home plate, but the better option for quick entry is Gate C, along Blake street on the first base side. Once inside the stadium the concourses are wide, and there is plenty of signage to help you navigate around the park.   Return on Investment   4 The Rockies have joined the recent trend of flex pricing for tickets. Weekdays games are your best value, with the lowest ticket prices ranging from $6-$12 in the Rockpile bleachers in center field. The rest of the pricing can range from $16 in the upper decks to $160 in the lower field boxes. But Coors Field is such a wonderful ballpark that any seat is a good view, and the average ticket price for a Rockies game is one of the cheapest in Major League Baseball. The Rockies do offer a few ticket specials on their website, such as the Blake Street Steal offering lower level seating for under $20 on select games. There are also Club level ticket specials that give fans 50% off on select games. The most interesting special is family based and is available for 4 games in May – this offer sells for $79 (lower level) or $59 (upper) including four tickets, a parking pass, and a $40 concession credit. Of course, checking on third party sites for tickets could save you money, depending on how the Rockies are performing on the field during the season. Concession prices are what you would expect when it comes to Major League Baseball, while parking can cost anywhere from $20 to $30. However, with Coors Field being close to Denver’s Union Station, using the train system can cost as little as $5 per person, and is the best way to attend a Rockies game.   Extras   5 Coors Field is one of the best ballparks in baseball – the beautiful center field centerpiece by the bullpens put one’s mind at peace with nature. Also there is a purple row in the upper deck that signifies 5,280ft above sea level; fans can say they watched a baseball game a mile above sea level. Coors Field has no bad viewing of the game – even the Rockpile, in upper center field, provides not only a good view of the game, but views of Denver’s downtown skyline and the mountain peaks to the west as well, providing incredible backgrounds when watching a game. The Rooftop addition has not only provided a great place for picturesque views, but a meeting place for fans. The Rockies also do a great job of in-game presentation bringing out all the baseball antics fans expect at a game, along with the Rockies mascot, Dinger. Another plus for Sandlot Brewery, the first brewery inside a major league baseball stadium and the place where Blue Moon beer was created.   Final Thoughts My travels have taken me to all 30 of the active major league ballparks. I have seen 8 games at Coors Field over the years, and every time, Coors Field ranks among the best with its beautiful structure, downtown location, and picturesque views. A trip to Coors Field is more than watching a baseball game; Coors Field is a place that signifies the beauty of Colorado. Any sports fan should put Coors Field high on their list of places to visit.

Dave and Paul head south to visit a train station? Or is it a ballpark? Only one way to find out is to grab a beer and check out the latest episode of Stadium Journey's Obstructed Views and take in Minor League Baseball's Arkansas Travelers. __________________________________________________________________________________ You can read Stadium Journey's review of Dickey-Stevens Park and the Arkansas Travelers game day experience here.