While the National Football League decides its 2023 champion on the field at Super Bowl LVIII, here at Stadium Journey we're about to decide on an even more prestigious title, that of the best game-day experience in the NFL. Stadium Journey's team of correspondents has visited all 32 National Football League stadiums, including 11 venues this season, crisscrossing the continent to give you, our readers, the information about what a game day looks like at every college football stadium in the country. Stadiums are ranked according to Stadium Journey's patented FANFARE rating scale, which takes into account a venue's food and beverage options, game day atmosphere, surrounding neighborhood, fan support, access (both inside and outside the stadium), return on investment and an extra category for anything that doesn't fall in the other categories. When two or more stadiums receive the same score, a Stadium Journey Council of Elders is consulted to break the ties. To view the complete review, just click on the link below the photos of each stadium. The resulting list is sure to produce some discussion among pro football diehards. That's OK, we can take it. We encourage you to visit our social media channels to take part in the discussion. Without further ado, we're proud to present our 2023 ranking of the best game-day experiences in the National Football League. 1. M&T Bank Stadium - Baltimore Ravens 4.71 Richard Smith - From the Ravenswalk area outside of the stadium to the purple seats and concourse lighting, the Ravens have set a fine stage for the enjoyment of NFL football. Expect the games to be loud inside the walls of the stadium. Every play, whether it be on defense or offense, will have the fans screaming at every detail. Even special team plays are paid attention to in great detail. The fans are knowledgeable about all aspects of the game. 2. Lucas Oil Stadium - Indianapolis Colts 4.57 Marc Viquez - It is hard not to be impressed with the gameday experience at Lucas Oil Stadium for a Colts game. It is a stadium properly made for both the players and the fans. The pre-game festivities, friendly staff, heated environment, and location steps from some of the city’s best restaurants and bars make a perfect Sunday afternoon. 3. Acrisure Stadium - Pittsburgh Steelers 4.57 Patricia Beninato - The Steelers are one of the NFL’s most storied franchises, and Heinz Field is an admirable home for it. Well-maintained and inviting as it enters its third decade of existence, it’s the rare NFL fan who wouldn’t like to go to a home Steelers game given the chance. The Steelers put Pittsburgh on the map as one of the best sports towns in the world, and when Heinz Field is filled with screaming black and gold-clad fans on a crisp autumn Sunday, there are few better places to be. 4. NRG Stadium - Houston Texans 4.43 Eric Moreno - The Texans put a lot of effort into their game-day atmosphere. There is always tailgating in the parking lots, and they have what amounts to a carnival in the area surrounding the entrances with games, food trucks, a drumline, and more. 5. Lumen Field - Seattle Seahawks 4.14 Ryan Rohde - CenturyLink Field is an absolute marvel. To be a part of the 12s on game day is a fan experience that is second to none. The Seahawks have made many strides to make the fan experience at CenturyLink Field the best in the NFL. The noise level is easily the loudest in the NFL as these fans do not have to be prompted to make some noise for their Seahawks. If you can make it here for a game, you will enjoy yourself and you will enjoy being a part of the 12s. 6. Lincoln Financial Field - Philadelphia Eagles 4.14 Lloyd Brown - The Eagles franchise has been one of the longest-running organizations in the NFL and has a great history of success. Lincoln Financial Field is a major improvement on its former home at “The Vet.” Game days feature sellout crowds, rabid fans, great Philadelphia food fare, and a quality team on the field. This all adds up to a great fan experience in the City of Brotherly Love. 7. Caesars Superdome - New Orleans Saints 4.14 Matt Colville - In New Orleans, home of so many attractions and history, there is one building that stands out above the rest. It has been called one of the most iconic venues in the whole world, hosting Superbowls, college football National Championships, and Final Fours. As you approach New Orleans it lurks over the skyline with its iconic gold-shaped silhouette reflecting off the entire Crescent City – it is Caesars Superdome, and since its opening in 1975 has become the fabric of American sports and pop culture, hosting some of the greatest entertainers and some of the biggest events of all time. 8. Nissan Stadium - Tennessee Titans 4.14 Lloyd Brown - Nissan Stadium’s location on the east bank of the Cumberland River provides stunning views of downtown Nashville, with easy access to some of the top tourism sites in Music City. The stadium provides an electronic package that is hard to beat, with its huge scoreboards at each end of the stadium. Accessibility is another strong point for the venue, as it offers multiple ways to get to the stadium, with the option of fans walking to the games via the Seigenthaler pedestrian bridge from downtown Nashville. 9. Allegiant Stadium - Las Vegas Raiders 4.00 Lloyd Brown - Las Vegas continues to build on its reputation as a great sports town. Now that the NHL and NFL have established themselves in the Fantasyland in the Desert… it will only be a matter of time before you see the Super Bowl, the Final Four, and other major sporting events played in Allegiant Stadium…you can bet on that! 10. Lambeau Field - Green Bay Packers 4.00 Steven Burke - When the subject of “bucket list” sports facilities to visit comes up for discussion, Green Bay’s Lambeau Field almost immediately comes to mind. It certainly is atop the list of NFL fans. 11. AT&T Stadium - Dallas Cowboys 4.00 Michael Davis - Every Cowboys fan seems to have a reason why they “bleed Cowboy blue” – for some being born and raised in Texas is reason enough, while for others it might be that their hometown doesn’t have an NFL team, but television brought the Cowboys into their homes and hearts. 12. State Farm Stadium - Arizona Cardinals 4.00 Richard Smith - State Farm Stadium is a distinctive venue that offers fans a great sporting experience. The fact that it offers a cool place to watch games away from the sometimes oppressive heat of the desert is just one more win for this venue. 13. Gillette Stadium - New England Patriots 4.00 Paul Baker - It's been a difficult transition in New England as the Patriots return to mediocracy after two decades of ruling the NFL. However, the (relative) lack of success on the field has not diminished Gillette Stadium’s influence on modern facility design or fan interest in the team. Outfitted with the largest outdoor scoreboard in the country and a modern new design, Gillette Stadium remains a premier, if somewhat overshadowed, NFL facility. 14. Paycor Stadium - Cincinnati Bengals 4.00 Marc Viquez - The recent aesthetic changes at Paycor Stadium have been welcoming, and the atmosphere is always colorful before and after a Bengals game. It is one of the best values in the league and even better when the team plays winning football.  15. MetLife Stadium - New York Giants 4.00 Richard Smith - The Giants fans do feel like they are in a bit of a funk. The team has not provided consistent on-field quality for a few years and it does seem to be affecting things such as attendance. Even with that said, the team has a long history and a large dedicated fan base that provides good amounts of cheer for their team. 16. MetLife Stadium - New York Jets 4.00 Richard Smith - A game at MetLife Stadium is a great way to cap a trip to New York City and is also great for locals. The stadium may not feel like it costs 1.6 Billion dollars, but that does not mean it isn’t a good place for a game. 17. Ford Field - Detroit Lions 3.86 Dave Cottenie - Whether it is enjoying the fun in the Pride Plaza or belting out Gridiron Heroes with Theo Spight, the fans of the Detroit Lions make the most of their experience every game. Not being required to sit through the cold Detroit winters is a plus and the loyalty of Lions is unquestioned after a long drought of on-field success. Taking in a Lions game is something that all football fans should consider in their travels. 18. Levi's Stadium - San Francisco 49ers 3.86 Lloyd Brown - Levi’s Stadium is one of the most technologically advanced stadiums in the NFL. Its location in the heart of Silicon Valley is a major improvement over the 49er's former home at the weather-challenged Candlestick Park. The team has seen a resurgence on the field in recent seasons, providing fans with an up-tempo offense that will fill the stands. The gold rush has returned! 19. Cleveland Browns Stadium - Cleveland Browns 3.86 Dave Cottenie - The Cleveland Browns are a solid NFL experience at Cleveland Browns Stadium. Being part of a fanbase that is as ardent passionate and loyal as any in the NFL is an attractive part of the Browns experience. Cleveland is also a great tourist destination and fans will enjoy making a full weekend of it. 20. Bank of America Stadium - Carolina Panthers 3.86 David Welch - The Panthers have continued to make upgrades to Bank of America Stadium to improve the fan experience, but previous improvements will pale in comparison to the projected $1 billion+ in upgrades the Panthers are looking to make. Future enhancements to Bank of America Stadium will likely look to provide visitors more of an entertainment destination than is currently being offered. These potential improvements will only add to the current positives that are already a part of the Carolina Panther football experience. 21. SoFi Stadium - Los Angeles Rams 3.71 Aaron Terry - The NFL’s newest stadium represents a pricey proposition but certainly comes with a lot of bells and whistles for fans to enjoy. If you plan in terms of seating, parking, and perhaps eating before the game, you can save yourself a little hassle, and perhaps a little green as well. 22. Hard Rock Stadium - Miami Dolphins 3.71 Lloyd Brown - Hard Rock Stadium is an NFL venue that has stayed current with the times, and in many ways is an improvement over its original design. The team has been fortunate to have owners from Joe Robbie to Steven Ross who have been willing to invest whatever funds are needed to improve the fan experience. It is no surprise that such special events such as the Super Bowl, NCAA Football Championships, and the Pro Bowl choose to come back regularly. 23. Arrowhead Stadium - Kansas City Chiefs 3.71 Lloyd Brown - Despite being one of the oldest stadiums in the NFL, Arrowhead Stadium has stood the test of time well. It keeps reinventing itself by adding amenities like the Hall of Honor, premium seating locations, and a concessions menu featuring BBQ from some of Kansas City’s finest restaurants. They also have one of the most loyal, and officially the loudest, fan base in the NFL, if not the world. 24. US Bank Stadium - Minnesota Vikings 3.71 Chuck Uteck - Regardless of where the Vikings find themselves in the standings, their boisterous supporters arrive early and stay late. The stadium is a magnificent centerpiece in Minneapolis. The two are a perfect pairing. 25. Soldier Field - Chicago Bears 3.71 Lloyd Brown - The Bears and Soldier Field both have a legendary history for Chicago natives. The fact that they never got together until the mid-1970s is somewhat symbolized by the present design of the stadium…. a modern-day seating bowl stuffed into a classic exterior dating back to the 1920s. Its setting on the shoreline of Lake Michigan is both a blessing and a curse. It is very scenic in the early fall, but brutal when the icy winds blow off the lake during the late-season games. 26. Mercedes-Benz Stadium - Atlanta Falcons 3.57 Lloyd Brown - 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. 27. Empower Field at Mile High - Denver Broncos 3.57 Lloyd Brown - A great team history, great fans, a diverse menu of food and beverage items, along with the natural beauty of the nearby Rocky Mountains make Empower Field at Mile High Stadium a high priority for anybody’s NFL bucket list. It also makes a great add-on activity for your ski vacation in late fall and early winter. Make sure you arrive early to enjoy the Western hospitality and the many pieces of stunning public art that dot the stadium complex. 28. TIAA Bank Field - Jacksonville Jaguars 3.57 Chris Green - With continued local investment from the team’s ownership and the potential continued success of the team in Jacksonville, the future looks bright for the Jaguars and their loyal fans. This is a game day experience that many visiting fans find impressive upon their arrival, and for good reason. The Jaguars consistently produce a solid fan experience all around and have given fans good reason to be excited about the future. 29. SoFi Stadium - Los Angeles Chargers 3.43 Aaron Terry - The NFL’s newest stadium represents a pricey proposition but certainly comes with a lot of bells and whistles for fans to enjoy. If you plan in terms of seating, parking, and perhaps eating before the game, you can save yourself a little hassle, and perhaps a little green as well. 30. Raymond James Stadium - Tampa Bay Buccaneers 3.29 Chris Green - The home of the Bucs may be missing that one little thing that would catapult it into the top ranks of football stadiums in America, but it is nonetheless an enjoyable experience. Proper planning for likely-to-be-congested roads helps a whole bunch here, and the tailgating is top-notch. Once inside, you will have a good time under the warm Florida sun; just don’t forget to bring a full wallet. 31. FedEx Field - Washington Commanders 3.14 Richard Smith - FedExField is a purely functional stadium in a less-than-desirable location. The team is also in a transition phase that could go in many directions. Ultimately the fan experience is better than it looks on the surface but is still far from ideal in the modern NFL. 32. Highmark Stadium - Buffalo Bills 3.00 Dave Cottenie - It will be interesting to see what a brand-new stadium will bring to the Buffalo Bills experience. There were plenty of opposing views as to what the new stadium should look like and where it should be. Until that time, the Bills are still making memories at the former Ralph Wilson Stadium. NFL fans who have yet to visit Highmark Stadium may want to make their way there before it is too late.

Whether it's junior, the minors, or the big leagues, hockey provides one of the best in-game experiences that any fan could ask for.  However, there is just something different about NCAA Hockey … something special.  The cozier venues make sightlines excellent and let the fan be right on top of the action.  The traditions that come with teams have been around for a long time and are unique to college hockey.  The student sections that in many places prove to be rowdier and more creative than their basketball and football counterparts.  Finally, the band puts that final touch on the experience to create that truly unique ambiance.   Stadium Journey is proud to present the Top 25 NCAA Hockey Experiences (with a few extras included) according to our writers and FANFARE scoring system.  Our patented FANFARE rating system takes into account a venue's concessions, atmosphere, surrounding neighborhood, fan support, access, value, and more. When two or more venues had the same score, a Stadium Journey Council of Elders was called upon to break the tie. To see any of the reviews referenced here, simply click on the link above the photo. With the 2023-2024 season coming to an end, fans are encouraged to get out to the rink and check out some of the greatest hockey experiences in the world in 2024-2025. Here are the Top 25 (+2) College Hockey Experiences of 2024. 1. Yost Ice Arena - Michigan Wolverines 4.57 Steve Ohnsmann - Surprisingly, the Yost Ice Arena was known as the Yost Field House and was first used as a basketball arena for both the men’s and women’s programs before the Crisler Center was built in 1967. In 1973, the building was converted into an ice arena and the Wolverines hockey team has been there ever since. This is the definitive “old school” hockey arena and should be on the bucket list for all hockey fans. 2. Ralph Engelstad Arena - North Dakota Fighting Hawks 4.43 Daryn Skjefte - The Ralph Engelstad Arena is unlike anything else in college hockey. The extreme detail that goes into every aspect is vibrant and outstanding. The excitement can quite literally be felt from a mile away, and regardless of the turn-out of the game, you will have a good time. The arena is truly the best in college hockey for several reasons. This should be a spot to see on everyone’s bucket list. 3. 3M Arena at Mariucci - Minnesota Golden Gophers 4.43 Dennis Morrell - Get here to see a game, you will be talking about for weeks and months after your visit. Witnessing a game here is very special. While the fans make up a huge part of the experience make no mistake, the venue and the university add a great deal to creating a magnificent live hockey experience. 4. AMSOIL Arena - Minnesota-Duluth Bulldogs 4.43 Jared Townsend - AMSOIL is certainly one of the best college hockey game day experiences you’ll find in the state, if not the entire U.S. Midwest. It’s more than just getting your money’s worth, it’s an experience that’ll make you want to recommend attending a game here to others, even if they’re not UMD Bulldog fans. 5. Compton Family Ice Arena - Notre Dame Fighting Irish 4.43 Marc Viquez - The arena itself is a true spectacle because it looks like an older facility on the outside, but once you’re inside you see it is truly a modern and state-of-the-art venue that offers everything a fan needs in terms of food, comfort, and entertainment. 6. Kohl Center - Wisconsin Badgers 4.43 Paul Swaney - Time a visit in November and you may be able to see two games on your trip to Madison depending on the basketball and football schedules. College hockey fans should come to a Wisconsin game- it’s one of the finest venues in college hockey. 7. Baxter Arena - Omaha Mavericks 4.29 Nolan Searl - A fan favorite, and unique UNO tradition, happens after the first Maverick goal of every game as a fish gets thrown onto the ice. What started as a rogue operation was eventually embraced by the university and the fans. Once the fish is on the ice, a guy driving a mini-Zamboni with a wheelie bar comes out and scoops it up in a net. It’s pretty hilarious. 8. Agganis Arena - Boston University Terriers 4.14 Paul Baker - Boston is a hockey city at heart. And even though most of Boston bleeds the Bruins’ black and gold, there is a corner of the city along Commonwealth Avenue that proudly sports the red and white of the Terriers. In a city with no shortage of college hockey options, Agganis Arena offers an experience that may top them all. 9. Goggin Ice Center - Miami RedHawks 4.14 Marc Viquez - The Goggin Ice Center is the perfect venue for the Redhawks hockey team and provides an ideal canvas for its fans, students, and alumni to cheer on the club during the season. The program can hold its own against the best of them in the college hockey world and the Hawks fans won’t let you forget that when in attendance. 10. Magness Arena - Denver Pioneers 4.14 Matt Finnegan - A game at Magness Arena allows fans to enjoy some of the nation’s top college hockey at a reasonable price.  From families with children to rabid hockey fans, a Pioneer home game provides a great, overall experience for everyone. 11. John J. MacInnes Student Ice Arena - Michigan Tech Huskies 4.14 Paul Swaney - A journey (and it is a journey) to Houghton, Michigan to see the Michigan Tech Huskies is well worth the trip. Whether you live in the area, are a major hockey fan, or are just following your team on the road, you will enjoy what you find at MacInnes Arena. 12. Centene Community Ice Center - Lindenwood Lions 4.14 Lloyd Brown - The Lindenwood University men’s hockey program has finally leaped over NCAA Division I competition. Their home ice at the Centene Community Ice Center will immediately become one of the top collegiate hockey venues in the Midwest. 13. Tsongas Center - UMass Lowell River Hawks 4.00 Paul Baker - It’s easy to be overshadowed in the crowded Boston hockey scene, but the Tsongas Center remains as one of the better hockey rinks in the area, even after a quarter century of use. While professional hockey is no longer in the cards for this cozy mid-sized arena, The UMass Lowell River Hawks have a home that measures up to any college arena in the country. 14. Mullett Arena - Arizona State Sun Devils 4.00 Lloyd Brown - While Mullett Arena has been panned as an NHL venue due to its small capacity and lack of NHL-level amenities, it shines as the college-level home of the Sun Devils. It offers a great gameday experience for both players and fans. The Inferno student section adds to the college vibe in the on-campus arena. I guess you could say I’m the (Sun) Devil’s advocate for this new venue! 15. Matthews Arena - Northeastern Huskies 4.00 Paul Baker - Many buildings use the term “historic” as a synonym for “old”. Matthews Arena truly presents as the former, even as it continues to function as the oldest indoor rink still being used in the world. Renovations have kept the facility up-to-date without sacrificing the historic features of the rink. Matthews Arena is a must-see for any hockey historian. 16. Gene Polisseni Center - RIT Tigers 4.00 Dave Cottenie - A trip to Henrietta to see the RIT Tigers is an excellent experience that college hockey fans should consider undertaking.  Although probably not considered a bucket list venue, even among college hockey die-hards, the Gene Polisseni Center more than meets the expectations of the hockey fan and is easily competitive with other college hockey venues. 17. Martire Family Arena - Sacred Heart Pioneers 4.00 Greg Venuto - Martire Arena is a great venue to take in a hockey game.  Both families and local hockey fans should not pass up the chance to check out the impressive new facility and watch Sacred Heart as the program attempts to make its mark on New England hockey. 18. Mullins Center - UMass Minutemen 4.00 Paul Baker - The Mullins Center is an attractive on-campus facility that serves as a home for the UMass Minutemen basketball and hockey teams. Still going strong in its 30th season, the arena provides western Massachusetts hockey fans with a comfortable place to watch a recent national championship team do their thing. 19. Berry Events Center - Northern Michigan Wildcats 4.00 Paul Swaney - There is no doubt that college hockey fans should include a trip to Northern Michigan University as a spot to see great hockey. Whether you are following your team on the road or just looking for a new venue, you won’t be disappointed by what you find at the Berry Events Center. 20. Pegula Ice Arena - Penn State Nittany Lions 3.86 Paul Baker - The Pegula Ice Arena is already mentioned as one of the marquee collegiate hockey venues in the nation. Penn State hockey has likewise enjoyed a meteoric rise to be considered one of the premier programs in the nation. When you step into Pegula Ice Arena for a Nittany Lion game, be ready for one of the best game day experiences in the nation. 21. Cadet Ice Arena - Air Force Falcons 3.86 Matt Finnegan - The Air Force Academy is worth a visit for its beauty and tradition alone.  A game at Cadet Ice Arena is a different and fun way to experience the school.  The program is consistently competitive and, especially against Army or local rivals Colorado College and the University of Denver, things can get loud in Cadet Ice Arena. 22. Harold Alfond Arena - Maine Black Bears 3.86 David Welch - Hockey at Alfond Sports Arena had become a bit of an afterthought for the state since its glory days. While the fervor and passion from the students have been relatively consistent, interest from the community has ebbed and flowed with the ups and downs on the ice.  The pendulum is now seemingly swinging back to the positive, however, which has revitalized Alfond Arena into one of the more special college hockey experiences in the country. 23. M&T Bank Arena - Quinnipiac Bobcats 3.86 Paul Baker - One of the best sports stories of the last decade was the ascension of tiny Quinnipiac University to the top of the college hockey world. After a couple of down years, the Bobcats are back at the top of the polls and People’s United Center is filled with rabid Connecticut hockey fans. This hidden gem of an arena is a must-see for anyone who enjoys college pucks. 24. Silvio O. Conte Forum - Boston College Eagles 3.86 Paul Baker - If you were to Google “what an arena looked like in the 1980s,” there’s a good chance Conte Forum would top the search results. With Boston College's history oozing from every corner of the facility, Conte Forum has a cozy, intimate feel to it. With the Eagles, a fixture at the top of the national rankings year in and year out, a trip to Chestnut Hill is a must for any hockey fan visiting Boston. 25. Bentley Arena - Bentley Falcons 3.86 Paul Baker - The trend of Atlantic Conference teams moving away from local community rinks and into cozy on-campus arenas is a welcome one. Bentley Arena, with its intimate, eco-friendly design, is a great place to catch a game and a hidden gem in the crowded Boston hockey scene 26. Mayo Clinic Health System Event Center - Minnesota State Mavericks 3.86 Jared Townsend - Verizon Wireless Center isn’t as flashy as more modern hockey arenas, but the point is, it gets the job done. Whether it’s the game ticket ($16) or the concessions (all very affordable), you can have an enjoyable experience among the great fans at this arena without having to worry about spending too much. 27. Harry W. Lawson Ice Arena - Western Michigan Broncos 3.86 Steve Ohnsman - The students who attend Western Michigan University hockey games at Lawson Ice Arena are affectionately known as the “Lawson Lunatics” and visiting teams and their coaches know that they will face an additional challenge due to the Lunatics.  Lawson is the oldest and second smallest arena in its conference, but the general atmosphere is exciting and all the fans are into the game. Some of those exciting years include six appearances in the NCAA Tournament and two conference championships.

The Stanley Cup playoffs are underway, so Stadium Journey felt it was time to do what we do best - rank the NHL hockey rinks. Stadium Journey ranks arenas based on their unique FANFARE rating scale, which incorporates a venue’s food, atmosphere, neighborhood, fans, accessibility, value, and other factors to create an overall score.  When two or more venues are tied, Stadium Journey consults its Council of Elders to break the tie.  It’s a different way of looking at venues and produces some variability in our lists that you don’t see elsewhere. As usual, we predict that this list will garner a great deal of debate. We welcome your input by joining discussions on our Facebook and Twitter pages.  We’re sure your NHL Arena ranking list differs from ours, and isn’t that what makes these lists so engaging? 1. Amalie Arena – Tampa Bay Lightning 4.57 Chris Green - The Tampa Bay Lightning have broken all expectations for a Florida hockey franchise, and their game day experience has become one of the best in the league. From the spotless interior of the venue to the bounty of food options, there is plenty to love at Amalie Arena. 2. Climate Pledge Arena – Seattle Kraken 4.43 Lloyd Brown - The Climate Pledge Arena is much more than just the newest rink in the NHL. It is an experiment in using the most current “smart” technologies to minimize (hopefully to zero) the carbon footprint the facility leaves after each event it hosts. 3. Bridgestone Arena – Nashville Predators 4.43 David Welch - Hockey in Nashville is an amazing experience, including both the in-game entertainment and the excitement of the game on the ice. But what sets Bridgestone Arena apart is the vibe of Nashville’s Broadway, which has been brought in just steps from the front doors – this feeling helps bring the party atmosphere of the area into the game. 4. Rogers Place – Edmonton Oilers 4.43 Jim Flannery - Rogers Place is a worthwhile place to visit even if you’re not there for a hockey game. There is so much to see and do in and around the building without ever walking through the gates that you could spend a couple hours just checking the place out. Once you’re through the gates, this is a beautiful building with truly state-of-the-art features that should impress most everyone. 5. Crypto.com Arena – Los Angeles Kings 4.43   Andrei Ojeda -With Crypto.com celebrating its 25th season, the Kings have had their share of great moments, rewarding their loyal fanbase with a contending team during most seasons as well as their two Stanley Cup triumphs. 6. Bell Centre – Montreal Canadiens 4.29 Dave Cottenie - Without a doubt, a trip to Centre Bell to see the Montréal Canadiens needs to be near the top of any hockey bucket list.  Although the arena itself is not earth shattering, the Canadiens put on a terrific product, even when the team is down. 7. PPG Paints Arena – Pittsburgh Penguins 4.29 Patricia Beninato - As far as NHL venues go, PPG Paints Arena gives hockey fans a top-of-the-line game experience. Due to its semi-northeastern location, it attracts hockey fans from all over the U.S. 8. Scotiabank Arena – Toronto Maple Leafs 4.14 Dave Cottenie - All hockey fans should consider making a pilgrimage to see the Toronto Maple Leafs and extend the trip to see the city of Toronto and especially the Hockey Hall of Fame.  Scotiabank Arena remains among the premier venues in the league and MLSE has done a spectacular job keeping the arena relevant for the last two decades. 9. Nationwide Arena – Columbus Blue Jackets 4.14 Greg Venuto - Nationwide Arena is clearly a beautiful and fan-friendly arena to watch an NHL game. Despite being over 20 years old, it seems new and up-to-date. It is definitely worth a visit if in town and the benefits are reasonable prices and plenty to do just outside its doors. 10. UBS Arena – New York Islanders 4.14 Ken Thorp - UBS Arena is a decent venue. The arena has enough bells and whistles to provide an adequate game day experience. They have a ridiculous amount of food choices as well as concession stands.  Stadium Operations work extremely hard to keep the fans engaged in the game. 11. Madison Square Garden – New York Rangers 4.14 Greg Venuto - MSG is certainly a must-see venue not just for avid hockey fans but for casual and non-sports fans too. The Arena sells itself plus the Garden produces a worthy day or evening of entertainment.   12. Capital One Arena – Washington Capitals 4.14 Gregory Koch - While the experience of a Capitals game at Capital One Arena has diminished somewhat since the Stanley Cup run a few years ago, it is still one of the better experiences in the NHL. Hockey fans will want to Rock the Red and check out a game here.   13. Prudential Center – New Jersey Devils 4.00 Steven Kee - The Prudential Center is a stunning facility, offering almost everything the hockey fan could ask for in the 21st century. The arena is accessible via mass transit, close to great restaurants, and provides a variety of services and features throughout the game. 14. Amerant Bank Arena – Florida Panthers 4.00 Chris Green - All-in-all, FLA Live Arena is family friendly and provides a quaint atmosphere. The last few seasons are proving that this quaint atmosphere can also swell into a roaring crowd, thanks to successful records.   15. TD Garden – Boston Bruins 4.00 Paul Baker - The TD Garden is only the third venue that the Bruins have called home in close to a century of competition, after the Boston Arena (now called Matthews Arena) and the Boston Garden. Built just nine inches from its predecessor, it is named for its sponsor, TD Bank. 16. Xcel Energy Center – Minnesota Wild 3.86 Greg Venuto - The Minnesota Wild continue to play before hockey-crazed, sellout crowds at Xcel Energy Center.  The building, while 23 years old, continues to shine as fans rock out to Shout after every Wild goal. 17. KeyBank Center – Buffalo Sabres 3.86 Robbie Raskin - KeyBank Center is a solid place to catch a hockey game in one of the best American hockey markets. Sabres fans are welcoming and friendly, the arena is comfortable and has been updated pretty well over the years.     18. Honda Center – Anaheim Ducks 3.86 Paul Baker - While hockey may not be the first thing on your mind as you wander around southern California during a warm winter day, a trip to the Honda Center provides a mighty good experience for any fan, whether you are coming from the frigid north or not.   19. United Center – Chicago Blackhawks 3.86 Greg Venuto - United Center is a must-see venue for sports fans and hockey enthusiasts alike.  If the Hawks can trend upward, a Stadium Journey to the Windy City will be even more memorable and could ignite the United Center to madhouse status once again. 20. T-Mobile Arena – Vegas Golden Knights 3.86 Lloyd Brown - The Vegas Golden Knights “broke the ice” as the first major league professional sports team to set up shop in Las Vegas. The city sells out games and the team’s performance on the ice is far above what is expected, winning the ultimate trophy – the Stanley Cup – in 2023. 21. Rogers Arena – Vancouver Canucks 3.86 Lloyd Brown - In Canada, ice hockey reigns supreme, and Vancouver was the first Canadian city on the West Coast to receive an NHL franchise. This has led to a long history of sellouts throughout the club’s 50-year existence. Packed stands lead to a great environment in the seating bowl. The seating areas fill early as the crowds do not want to miss even the warmups. 22. Enterprise Center – St. Louis Blues 3.71 Greg Venuto - The Enterprise Center is a solid venue to take in an NHL hockey game.  The arena features good food and drink choices and favorable sight lines. The fans are warm, inviting and enthusiastic about their team which is now a St. Louis tradition for over 55 years. 23. Wells Fargo Center – Philadelphia Flyers 3.71 Steven Kee - The Wells Fargo Center is still a first-class and modern building for hockey and sports fans. The atmosphere, energy, and festive spirit during the holiday season make it an ideal destination when it town. 24. SAP Center – San Jose Sharks 3.57 Dave Cottenie -The San Jose Sharks are a great experience for all NHL fans.  Their influence throughout the 90’s is undeniable and they have had great influence opening up the southern belt to NHL hockey.  A trip to the Shark Tank will be a memorable one for hockey fans everywhere. 25. Ball Arena – Colorado Avalanche 3.57  Greg Venuto - Ball Arena is a great place to visit while in Denver to take in a hockey game.  The fans are enthusiastic and the team is usually at the top of the standings. 26. Scotiabank Saddledome – Calgary Flames 3.57 Jim Flannery -The Olympic Saddledome opened in 1983, constructed in anticipation of the 1988 Winter Olympics, and has been the home of the Calgary Flames ever since.  Over the years, the Saddledome has seen a few renovations, increased seating capacity, and a couple name changes; it is now known as the Scotiabank Saddledome. 27. Canada Life Centre – Winnipeg Jets 3.57 Lloyd Brown -Winnipeg has been given a second chance with an NHL franchise and there is no chance of the fans allowing the team to move elsewhere again. They fill the Canada Life Centre for every game, cheering loudly for the local boys while organizing chants to disrupt the visiting team’s concentration. The whole town turns out in their blue-best when the Jets are in town.   28. American Airlines Center – Dallas Stars 3.57 Michael Davis - American Airlines Center is one of the finest sports venues in America, located in a great city and home to a hockey organization that seems committed to being in Dallas for a long time.  A visit to American Airlines Center to watch the Stars play is a wonderful way to spend an evening in Dallas. 29. PNC Arena – Carolina Hurricanes 3.57 Joseph Oakes - PNC Arena is routinely sold out and offers a great environment to watch Carolina Hurricane NHL hockey.  Even though the venue is approaching 25 years old, it is still a modern arena for NHL hockey.   30. Little Caesars Arena – Detroit Red Wings 3.29 Meg Minard - The NHL’s Detroit Red Wings moved from its aging Joe Louis Arena to the new, technologically-advanced Little Caesars Arena in 2017.  The new arena has many great features while still maintaining the Hockeytown history. 31. Canadian Tire Centre – Ottawa Senators 3.29 Dave Cottenie - It will be interesting to see what the future holds for the Ottawa Senators and their much maligned building in Kanata.  It must be said, however, that regardless of the situation with the Canadian Tire Centre, the Ottawa Senators are still an NHL experience and fans will still have a great time during the game. 32. Mullett Arena - Arizona Coyotes 2.86  Greg Venuto - For what it is, Mullett Arena offers a charming setting for fans who can get close to the action and see and hear everything up close.  It is not an NHL venue, but seeing top-flight players in such an intimate setting is fabulous.

One third of the top junior hockey league in Canada, the Ontario Hockey League features seventeen teams from Ontario, one from Pennsylvania and two from Michigan.  The OHL has seen such hockey legends as Bobby Orr, Darry Sittler, Paul Coffey, Al MacInnis, and Wayne Gretzky have all called the OHL home at one point.  A healthy mix of new and old facilities, the OHL offers fans an intimate experience with the glitz of future professional hockey players who help fill the NHL Draft. Stadium Journey has taken to rank the experiences of all 20 experiences in the Ontario Hockey League.  The scores are all very close, however, in every case, a high marks for Return on Investment are present in each experience.  This makes the OHL a prime spot to invest some entertainment dollars and get the most out of that hard earned money. The arenas are ranked according to Stadium Journey's patented FANFARE rating scale, which takes into account a venue's food and beverage, game day atmosphere, surrounding neighborhood, fan support, access, value and more. When two or more venues are tied, a Stadium Journey Council of Elders familiar with the league are consulted to break those ties. Here are the Top 20 OHL Hockey Experiences of 2024. 1. Dom Cardillo Arena @ Kitchener Memorial Auditorium - Kitchener Rangers 4.43 Dave Cottenie - The Aud remains one of the most unique venues in a league where new venues are becoming increasingly homogeneous.  The arena with the main ice is named after former beloved mayor of Kitchener, Dom Cardillo, making the home of the Rangers the Dom Cardillo Arena at Kitchener Memorial Auditorium.  The Rangers provide one of the best experiences in the entire Canadian Hockey League and are a must see for all junior hockey fans. 2. Meridian Centre - Niagara IceDogs 4.14 Robbie Raskin - Meridian Centre still feels shiny and new after a decade, yet it also avoids feeling like a cookie-cutter modern venue. Coupled with a charming surrounding neighbourhood and world-class tourism draws beyond it, hockey fans should definitely consider OHL hockey in St. Catharines as part of a trip to Niagara. 3. TD Place Arena - Ottawa 67's 4.14 Dave Cottenie - One of the cornerstone franchises of the Ontario Hockey League, the 67’s derive their name from not only their inception, but to the founding of Canada as an independent country in 1867.  The 67’s are one of the most successful franchises in the league, both on and off the ice, are owned by the Ottawa Sports & Entertainment Group, who also claim the CFL’s Ottawa RedBlacks as part of their portfolio. 4. Sleeman Centre - Guelph Storm 4.14 Dave Cottenie - Although not normally considered a cornerstone franchise of the OHL, the Storm have been among the most consistent both on the ice and at the turnstile.  The Storm have participated in the Memorial Cup tournament on six occasions and won the J. Ross Robertson Cup as OHL champions four times. 5. GFL Memorial Gardens - Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds 4.00 Dave Cottenie - If there is one thing above all that the Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds are known for, it is their connection to the greatest hockey player ever, Wayne Gretzky. In 1977, the Greyhounds selected the slender, sixteen year old with the third pick in the midget draft. Gretzky would not disappoint by scoring a Greyhound record 182 points in his only season in the Soo. 6. Budweiser Gardens - London Knights 4.00 Dave Cottenie - The John Labatt Centre opened in 2002 and helped usher in a new era in the OHL of new or renovated facilities and quickly became the gold standard in arenas in the league. Going from a nightmare to a dream come true has been an amazing ride for the fans in London and there are no signs of slowing down. 7. Slush Puppie Place - Kingston Frontenacs 3.86 Dave Cottenie - Although the Fronts have not enjoyed a ton of success on the ice, with only two East Division Championships to show for their efforts, the Frontenacs experience has improved significantly and remains a great option for sports fans 8. Tribute Communities Centre - Oshawa Generals 3.86 Dave Cottenie - With a lineage that goes back to Oshawa’s favourite adopted son, Bobby Orr, the Generals are one of the most successful teams to ever take the ice in Ontario.  The Generals hold the record for most J. Ross Robertson Cups as OHL Champions, with 13.  The Generals also boast an impressive five Memorial Cups, which is also more than any other current Canadian Hockey League franchise. 9. Sudbury Community Arena - Sudbury Wolves 3.71 Dave Cottenie - The Sudbury Community Arena is in the twilight of its Ontario Hockey League life, and fans need to take advantage of the opportunity to see this facility host the Sudbury Wolves while they still can.  The expected opening of the Kingsway Entertainment District, which will provide a new event centre home for the Wolves, is not far off, in 2025. 10. Erie Insurance Arena - Erie Otters 3.71 Patricia Beninato - If you’re a hockey fan, an Erie Otters game is fun and relatively inexpensive, even if you throw in a hot dog, a beer, and a t-shirt. Maybe it’s not a destination arena, but if you’re in the area and want to see future NHL stars up close and hang out with some loyal hockey fans, you can do worse than Erie Insurance Arena. 11. Peterborough Memorial Centre - Peterborough Petes 3.71 Robbie Raskin - The Petes are the oldest continuously-operating team in the OHL and have won the league nine times and the national Memorial Cup championship once. Frustrating to their fans is that the only team with greater success are their hated rivals, the Oshawa Generals. 12. Progressive Auto Sales Arena - Sarnia Sting 3.57 Marc Viquez - Progressive Auto Sales Arena is home to the Sarnia Sting of the Ontario Hockey League. It has a seating capacity of 5,500 and sits on the campus of Lambton College. The building debuted in 1998, four seasons after the Sting arrived. 13. North Bay Memorial Gardens - North Bay Battalion 3.57 Dave Cottenie - In 2013 the Ontario Hockey League made a triumphant return to North Bay, Ontario.  After the North Bay Centennials had their run from 1982 to 2002, they left for Saginaw, Michigan under a cloud of mistrust and bad feelings. The hockey light would shine again in the Gateway to the North after the local fans provided next level support for the Nipissing Lakers, a newly formed university team. 14. Sadlon Arena - Barrie Colts 3.43 Dave Cottenie - Sadlon Arena offers a solid junior hockey experience that is not uncommon in many other markets. From the exterior, Sadlon Arena has a bit of a barn-like appearance with a rounded, elongated roof, which can be seen from Highway 400.  Oriented from west to east, the most eye-catching feature of the arena is the Horsepower Sports Bar, which offers a unique brick facade to the front of the building with awnings. 15. WFCU Centre - Windsor Spitfires 3.29 Marc Viquez - The original Spitfires were members of the Ontario Hockey Association from 1945 to 1953 and relocated to Hamilton. The current version began operations in 1971 in the Major Junior Hockey League and was promoted to the Ontario Hockey League in 1975. The Spitfires are named after the Royal Canadian Air Force No. 417 Squadron, nicknamed “City of Windsor” squadron, who flew the Spitfire fighter planes during World War II. To many fans, they are nicknamed the Spits.   16. Brantford and District Civic Centre - Brantford Bulldogs 3.14 Dave Cottenie - New to the 2023-2024 Ontario Hockey League landscape is the Brantford Bulldogs. When the Hamilton Bulldogs found they would be homeless for two years as the FirstOntario Centre undergoes renovations, owner Michael Andlauer found a landing spot in Brantford, Ontario, famously the childhood home of Wayne Gretzky, and signed a lease with the city for at least three years. 17. J.D. McArthur Arena @ Harry Lumley Bayshore Community Centre - Owen Sound Attack 3.14 Dave Cottenie - On the banks of Georgian Bay sits the smallest market in the Ontario Hockey League. In 1989, the Guelph Platers, who had been in Guelph since 1968, made the move north to the Grey-Bruce area of Ontario. 18. Wendler Arena @ Dow Event Center - Saginaw Spirit 3.00 Dave Cottenie - With a small city population of under 50,000, currently a poor team on the ice and economic challenges in Central Michigan, the Spirit are having a bit of a rough go.  That being said, there is still hope that Michigan’s hockey spirit can continue to thrive in the OHL. 19. Dort Federal Credit Union Event Center - Flint Firebirds 2.86 Dave Cottenie - When Peter Karmanos sold the Plymouth Whalers of the Ontario Hockey League to the IMS Hockey Corporation and Rolf Nilsen there were a number of eyebrows raised. There are more than enough doubters when it comes to the Firebirds viability in Flint, but IMS is chugging along and they want everyone to get behind and Believe in Flint. 20. Paramount Fine Foods Centre - Mississauga Steelheads 2.71 Dave Cottenie - A decade as the Steelheads has passed and hockey in Mississauga once again is at a tipping point.  Owner Elliot Kerr has made public his frustrations with the lack of fan support and mused that maybe the Steelheads should be elsewhere.  The Steelheads are expected to move to Brampton, Ontario for the 2024-2025 season

The Dallas Mavericks taking on the Boston Celtics are set to do battle in the NBA Finals. Stadium Journey felt it was time to do what we do best - rank the arenas of the league. The website utilizes the FANFARE rating scale, which considers a venue's Food, Atmosphere, Neighborhood, Fan support, Access, Return on investment, and a final Extras category to determine the rankings. A Stadium Journey Council of Elders is consulted to break the tie when two or more venues are tied. We hope that this list provides some good-natured debate. After all, isn't that why we do these things? Feel free to share your opinions on Stadium Journey's social media pages. Without further ado, we present Stadium Journey's rankings of all 30 National Basketball Association arenas for the 2023-24 season. 1. Madison Square Garden - New York Knicks 4.57 Brian O'Sullivan - Once again, “The World’s Most Famous Arena” finishes in the top spot. Seeing a Knicks game at Madison Square Garden is a must for any basketball or sports fan in New York City. Although it comes at a substantial monetary cost, the memories that come with the experience are truly magical and will last a lifetime. 2. Kia Center - Orlando Magic 4.57 Chris Green - Take an NBA team, plant it in a beautiful growing city, and build them a beautiful facility with modern touches that never seem to go out of style, and you have yourself Kia Center, home of the Orlando Magic. Chock-full of quality concessions, comfortable seating, great restaurants and bars nearby, and friendly patrons, you would be hard-pressed to find a venue as enjoyable and inviting for a game of professional basketball. 3. Scotiabank Arena - Toronto Raptors 4.43   Dave Cottenie -Taking in a Toronto Raptors game is an event that fans will love.  The entertainment is top-notch, and the Scotiabank Arena is an excellent venue with a terrific location in one of the most dynamic, tourist-friendly cities. Basketball fans should not shy with the Raptors because of their relative youth as a franchise.  They are one of the best experiences around. 4. Wells Fargo Center - Philadelphia 76ers 4.43 Pete Dowell - The fans make the experience at a Sixers game worth the price of admission. They love to band together and show the 76ers love just as much as they love to give the opposing team a hard time. Trust the Process and enjoy your time at Wells Fargo Center. 5. Rocket Mortgage Fieldhouse - Cleveland Cavaliers 4.43   Lloyd Brown - Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse has been directed towards improving the fan experience, as the seating bowl and playing court remained the same throughout the latest changes.  6. Kaseya Arena - Miami Heat 4.43   Lloyd Brown - The facility is one of the most unique arenas in the league, both architecturally and in its promotion of the local team’s brand. It embraces the Latin heritage found in the Miami area through its concessions program and the music played during lulls in the action. 7. Chase Center - Golden State Warriors 4.29   Lloyd Brown - One of the premiere franchises in the NBA now has a home to match up with its elite status. The Chase Center boasts an unbeatable view of San Francisco Bay, cutting-edge technology, and a food and beverage menu featuring the best in the country. 8. Moda Center - Portland Trailblazers 4.29 Lloyd Brown - The Moda Center offers one of the most entertaining venues to watch a game. The fact that basketball is the primary professional sport in town, added to the raucous atmosphere of fans providing a great viewing experience. 9. Ball Arena -  Denver Nuggets 4.29 Matt Finnegan - NBA games are high-energy, and Nuggets home games are no different.  The club's recent championship success has brought larger and louder crowds. Yet the costs of watching the Nuggets at Ball Arena do not require a complex financial transaction. 10. Golden 1 Center - Sacramento Kings 4.29 Lloyd Brown - A large venue can harm the environment through heavy car emissions, trash, and heavy use of carbon-producing gasses. Golden 1 Center is a winner in minimizing these harmful issues and should be a blueprint for future athletic facilities. Winning off the court can be just as important as winning on the court as far as our environment. 11. TD Garden - Boston Celtics 4.14   Paul Baker - The city of Boston may not be viewed as a basketball hotbed by many people. However, the combination of a team contending for the NBA Title, a rabid fanbase, an outstanding gameday atmosphere, unmatched history, and tradition makes 'The Gahden' one of the must-see venues in the league. 12. Gainbridge Fieldhouse - Indiana Pacers 4.14   Marc Viquez - The arena no longer feels like a traditional basketball fieldhouse, but more of an entertainment venue that will appeal to different events.  Once in your seat, you will have a great NBA experience. 13. Frost Bank Center - San Antonio Spurs 4.14 Eric Moreno - The Barn is still a special place to watch an NBA game. For the history alone, I think any sports fan should take in a Spurs game – the atmosphere is great, the arena still sparkles, and one day the Spurs will rise again. 14. American Airlines Center - Dallas Mavericks 4.14 Michael Davis - American Airlines Center is one of the finest sports venues in America and is in a great city. The arena is in immaculate condition, offers first-class amenities, and is among the best experiences in the NBA. 15. Delta Center - Utah Jazz 4.14 Lloyd Brown - Through stable ownership that always puts its fans first, the franchise has been one of the most successful on and off the court. The Utah Jazz are proof that a small-market team can thrive in the NBA. 16. Smoothie King Center - New Orleans Pelicans 4.14   Matt Colville -The Blender is slowly beginning to show its age and has received some recent flack for not being up to comparison with other NBA venues. It doesn't stand out amongst the city skyline.  But for everything the arena lacks, and in a city known for its partying, the gameday staff does an excellent job trying to make it an exciting and festive atmosphere. 17. Fiserv Forum - Milwaukee Bucks 4.00   Marc Viquez - The Fiserv Forum is an architectural beauty and offers everything a fan would want in an NBA area. The concourses are spacious, the food is varied, the views are open, and the service is top-notch. When you add the Deer District and Third Street as nearby destination options before the game, the Bucks fans have one hell of a place to enjoy their team. It is a beautiful place for a basketball game. 18. Crypto.com Arena - Los Angeles Clippers 4.00 Editor - The Clippers have played their last game at the Crypto.com Arena that they have shared with the Lakers since 1999. It is scheduled to open the Intuit Dome in Inglewood next season, a state-of-the-art venue that we hope debuts on our list next year. 19. State Farm Arena - Atlanta Hawks 4.00   David Welch - Taking in a Hawks game at State Farm Arena is an overall fun experience. The organization puts a lot of effort into visiting one of the best in the NBA. From the player introductions to the in-game entertainment and variety of food and drinks at affordable prices, the experience is, without a doubt, high quality. 20. Footprint Center - Phoenix Suns 4.00   Lloyd Brown - A trip to the Footprint Center provides a much-improved fan experience for the Suns faithful. They can relax in the newly installed seats while keeping up with the game stats via the new video board and end zone displays.  21. Paycom Center - Oklahoma City Thunder 4.00   Dave Cottenie - Oklahoma City has proven that despite being in the smallest NBA market, they can play with the big boys and belong in the league.  A trip to see the Thunder is well worth the trip, and the city of Oklahoma City is an underrated destination city. 22. United Center - Chicago Bulls 3.86   Marc Viquez - The United Center has enough of what you need for an enjoyable evening of professional basketball. The history of the Bulls is on display all over the building, the social areas are great for spending time away from the game, and there is always an energetic crowd to liven up the mood of the building. 23. Barclays Center - Brooklyn Nets 3.71   Sean MacDonald -The Barclays Center has embraced a black and gray color scheme, which works well with the Nets, who use those as their primary colors. They have also embraced their Brooklyn home, and much of the game day presentation is used to strengthen the bond between the borough and the team.  24. Little Caesars Arena - Detroit Pistons 3.71   Dave Cottenie - Little Caesars Arena attempts to meld a modern arena with something from a different era.  The exterior of the Little Caesars Arena attempts to bring you back to the old Olympia Arena in Detroit, which the Pistons and Red Wings once shared.  A healthy mix of glass and brick, the exterior of the building is attractive. 25. Spectrum Center - Charlotte Hornets 3.71 David Welch - There are a variety of entertainment options to enjoy in downtown Charlotte. The Uptown area provides copious activities for fans before and after a Hornets game. 26. Crypto.com Arena - Los Angeles Lakers 3.71   Lloyd Brown - The arena continues to serve as the premiere indoor sports facility in the Los Angeles area. Its mix of teams touches upon almost every demographic in a city. Its location across the street from the LA Live music, restaurant, and entertainment district makes it an attractive place for a night on the town. 27. Toyota Center - Houston Rockets 3.57   When in Space City, checking out the Houston Rockets is a great way to help take in the entirety of the city.  The Toyota Center is a solid NBA venue; fans will have a good time at the game. 28. FedEx Forum - Memphis Grizzlies 3.57   Lloyd Brown - The FedEx Forum does a great job of saluting the musical heritage of the city of Memphis and the great basketball teams of the city’s past. The concourses are very witty in working in musical references to some of the city’s blues legends while also featuring photos of some of the top basketball talent to pass through town. 29. Target Center - Minnesota Timberwolves 3.57   Lloyd Brown - The recent renovations at the Target Center have vastly improved the fan experience for the Timberwolves faithful. New gathering areas, opening the building to more outside light, and the electronic package in the seating bowl area have been improved.  30. Capital One Arena - Washington Wizards 3.14   Gregory Koch - Although the Wizards had high hopes when they moved downtown in 1997 into a shiny new arena, the experience has proven to be less than promised. Although a Wizards game is more affordable than others in the league, you ultimately get what you pay for.

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.

When Major League Baseball took over operations of the affiliated minor leagues in 2021, contracting 40 teams, it was a real boon for the independent leagues. Contraction opened up previously occupied markets and created opportunities for indy leagues to loosely affiliate themselves with Major League Baseball. One of the leagues to take advantage of the changing landscape was the Frontier League. Today, the Frontier League consists of 16 teams stretching geographically from Quebec to St. Louis. Many of the circuit's teams are located just outside of major league markets, where they can market themselves as affordable alternatives to the more expensive big league teams. Stadium Journey correspondents have visited all 16 of the Frontier League ballparks, rating each one according to our patented FANFARE scale, which takes a look at a facility's food, atmosphere, surrounding neighborhood, fan support, value, and more. We have ranked them all here for you in one convenient list. Share your thoughts on our social media channels @Stadium Journey. 1. Duly Health and Care Field - Joliet Slammers - 4.29 Eric Hasman - Duly Health and Care Field has a surprising lot of pros to make it one of the best ballparks in the Chicagoland area. It offers a wraparound concourse, creative food options, cheap prices, a healthy selection of craft beers, and an active surrounding neighborhood to make it well worth your while to visit. 2. Mercy Health Stadium - Lake Erie Crushers - 4.00 Chris Green - The Lake Erie Crushers are a team that is perhaps overlooked too often, which is unfair to their extremely family-friendly atmosphere. Mercy Health Stadium is well laid out, and while it may not feature multi-level suite boxes or upper deck seating, the venue offers great sightlines and comfortable seating in all areas. 3. Thomas More Stadium - Florence Y'Alls - 3.86 Marc Viquez - Thomas More Stadium is a small stadium that packs in a big punch. It is a simple facility that makes up for it by getting base hits with free parking, local food variety, affordable prices, and a positive attitude. The use of the water tower and the phrase "Florence Y'all" is awesomely fun. If the Reds are not in town, take the short drive and watch the team play. 4. Joseph L. Bruno Stadium - Tri-City Valley Cats - 3.71 Paul Baker - While “The Joe” may not stand out from the crowd as a facility, the ValleyCats do a whole lot right at Bruno Stadium. With a game day experience that features a top-notch menu, excellent customer service, and numerous extras, a trip to Tri-City is certainly worth taking. 5. Stade Canac - Quebec Capitales - 3.71 Paul Baker - Quebec would never be considered a baseball city by most fans, but Les Capitales has been one of the more successful independent teams both on and off the field. A trip to historic Stade Canac is one worth taking for any ballpark chaser. 6. Grizzlies Ballpark - Gateway Grizzlies - 3.71 Marc Viquez - It is a marvelous, little ballpark that has become one of the better ones in independent baseball. The ticket prices are affordable, the food is creative and fun, and promotional nights should attract fans to the stadium. When in St. Louis, there is more than one option for a baseball game. 7. Bosse Field - Evansville Otters - 3.57 Marc Viquez-Bosse Field is an example of baseball from another time and its aura can be felt the moment you walk through the main entrance. To many, it’s a tourist attraction and a baseball destination for ballpark travelers. However, it remains “a foe to time” and “a monument to the city” and one of the last of its kind in professional baseball. Photo Courtesy of Julio Bocher 8. Wild Things Park - Washington Wild Things - 3.57 The Wild Things have been a mainstay in the Frontier League since 1997. Located in the suburbs of Pittsburgh, the team likes to boast that it is where local baseball fans can come to see a team win. 9. Clover Stadium - New York Boulders - 3.43 Paul Baker - Clover Stadium is one of the nicer independent ballparks in the northeast. It always felt out of place in the Can-Am League, but with the circuit’s merger into the Frontier League, it will have some worthy peers. If this ballpark was located in a downtown area, it may be listed among the best in all of independent baseball. 10. Skylands Stadium - Sussex County Miners - 3.43 Gregory Koch - Skylands Stadium may be far away from everywhere everyone thinks of when they think of New Jersey, but it is still a great place to watch a baseball game. Between the unique and fitting architectural style, and all the on-field and off-field ways the team promotes the fan experience, a Sussex County Miners game is a great way to spend a summer evening. 11. Wintrust Field - Schaumberg Boomers - 3.29 Eric Hasman - The Schaumburg Boomers experience is noticeably better than the Schaumburg Flyers experience from many years ago. It seems the Boomers are keeping up their winning ways and are always upgrading the fan experience. Wintrust Field is worth checking out during any ballpark tours of the Chicagoland area. 12. Ottawa Stadium - Ottawa Titans - 3.29 Paul Baker - While Ottawa Stadium's glory days may be behind it, the ballpark remains a functional facility that fits the Frontier League well. While it may be too large for the needs of the Titans, it’s great to see baseball continue in Canada’s capital after years of uncertainty. 13. Stade Quillorama - Trois Rivieres Aigles - 3.14 Paul Baker - Trois Rivieres will not be a destination considered by many baseball fans when planning a road trip. However, a trip to Quebec to see Stade Quillorama is a worthwhile stadium journey for any fan. This old-timey facility is a cozy place to catch a game, and the small city of Trois Rivieres is a unique destination to include on a ballpark road trip. 14. Ozinga Field - Windy City Thunderbolts - 3.00 Eric Hasman - This ballpark is one of the best-kept secrets on the south side of the Chicagoland area. The design of the ballpark, the local fans who tailgate, the support of the club, and the affordable pricing should make Ozinga Field a can’t-miss for any baseball traveler. 15. Campanelli Stadium - New England Knockouts - 2.86 Paul Baker - Can the Knockouts go the distance, or will they be another independent league TKO? Early returns are not promising, but this fight is far from over. While Campanelli Stadium doesn’t do anything new in terms of the facility itself or the game-day experience, this is a worthy addition to the Frontier League roster of ballparks. 16. Hinchliffe Stadium - New Jersey Jackals - 2.86 Paul Baker - While there was a great deal of criticism surrounding the efforts to preserve and restore this historic facility and the Jackals’ subsequent move there, it’s wonderful to be able to step back in time and experience a baseball game in an original Negro League ballpark. While some of the choices made in setting up the field may be questionable, this is a place that every baseball historian should endeavor to visit.

When Major League Baseball took over operations of the affiliated minor leagues in 2021, contracting 40 teams, it was a real boon for the independent leagues. Contraction opened up previously occupied markets and created opportunities for indy leagues to loosely affiliate themselves with Major League Baseball. One of the leagues to take advantage of the changing landscape was the American Association. Today, the American Association consists of 12 teams stretching geographically through the midwest from Manitoba to Texas. Many of the circuit's teams are located just outside of major league markets, where they can market themselves as affordable alternatives to the more expensive big league teams. Stadium Journey correspondents have visited all 12 of the American Association ballparks, rating each one according to our patented FANFARE scale, which takes a look at a facility's food, atmosphere, surrounding neighborhood, fan support, value, and more. We have ranked them all here for you in one convenient list. Share your thoughts on our social media channels @Stadium Journey. Shaw Park - Winnepeg Goldeyes 4.14 Marc Viquez - The Winnipeg Goldeyes are a class act in the world of independent league baseball. The crowd support, enthusiasm, friendly staff, and all-around great time are what visits Shaw Park a great investment with your ballpark dollar. Legends Field - Kansas City Monarchs 3.71 Marc Viquez -Legends Field is a very nice place to watch a baseball game; it’s spacious, has plenty of promotional nights, and is easy to get to by car. If you happen to be in town when the Monarchs are playing, watching a game on the Kansas side of the city might be worth your effort. Haymarket Park - Lincoln Saltdogs 3.71 Paul Baker - Haymarket Park is a nice facility located close to downtown Lincoln and the University of Nebraska. Sports fans visiting the area should be sure to check out nearby Memorial Stadium. Baseball fans will enjoy the mix of the ballpark’s small-town feel and modern amenities. Northwest Medicine Field - Kane County Cougars 3.57 Marc Viquez - Northwestern Medicine Field is an older minor league ballpark with a main concourse that does not wrap around the ball field. The atmosphere is festive with food trucks, lawn seating down both foul lines, a KidZone behind right field, and three wooden party decks for large groups. Plus, there is plenty of food and beverages to keep fans of all ages satisfied. Newman Outdoor Field - Fargo-Moorhead RedHawks 3.57 Paul Baker - Ballparks like Newman Outdoor Field and cities like Fargo are the backbone of minor-league baseball. Boasting affordable prices, a friendly atmosphere and a comfortable, fun place at which to watch a game, a trip to North Dakota is a worthy Stadium Journey for any baseball fan. Impact Field - Chicago Dogs 3.43 Marc Viquez - Impact Field is a fantastic-looking stadium and pushes the boundary for stadium design and aesthetics. The Chicagoland is a crowd with both major league and MLB partner league ballparks, and the Dogs provide a lot of fun and excitement with their branding, ticket pricing, and promotional nights. The Depot at Cleburne Stadium - Cleburne Railroaders 3.43 Michael Davis - The Depot at Cleburne Station is the headstone of future development around Cleburne, and the brand-new ballpark has the potential to keep professional baseball in Cleburne for many years to come. While Cleburne, Texas may not be a tourist hot spot, what it does have is an immaculate ballpark for any baseball fan. Sioux Falls Stadium - Sioux Falls Canaries 3.43 Chuck Utech - There are newer parks. There are some with more state-of-the-art features. There are few though that marry a feel of the community with amenities. Sioux Falls Stadium is an excellent ballpark that baseball fans can enjoy. Franklin Field - Milwaukee Milkmen 3.29 Marc Viquez - Franklin Field is not your ordinary baseball stadium. It blends in well with the neighborhood, and it will only be challenged by the imagination of its architects. The enthusiasm by the game day staff dressed as milkmen, and the numerous dairyland themes make for an alternative to watching professional baseball in Milwaukee. U.S. Steel Yard - Gary Southshore RailCats 3.00 Eric Hasman - U.S. Steel Yard is a nice ballpark and one of my favorites because it plays big (lots of triples). Even though it is not located in the best neighborhoods, it is safe and a place any ballpark enthusiast should see. Wisconsin Brewing Company - Lake County Dockhounds 3.00 Paul Baker - The developers of Wisconsin Brewing Company Park made many bold choices when they designed this multi-purpose park. Unfortunately, the result was a bland facility that features a less-than-ideal setup for all the sports it was designed to host. Once the kinks are worked out in this brand-new facility for this brand-new team, this will be a fine addition to the American Association roster of ballparks. Lewis and Clark Stadium - Sioux City Explorers 3.00 Paul Baker - Lewis and Clark Park is a small-town ballpark that is in danger of being passed by, even by the independent American Association. As the league continues to move into newer ballparks in larger cities, small cities like Sioux City are in danger of losing their teams. This is hardly an indictment on ballparks like Lewis and Clark Park, which are quickly becoming obsolete as the stadium arms race escalates.

The Low A division of Minor League Baseball consists of the Carolina League, the Florida State League, and the California League. The 2024 Low A season has just wrapped up this week with the Fredericksburg Nationals taking the Carolina League crown, the Palm Beach Cardinals taking the Florida State League crown, and the Modesto Nuts taking the California League crown. Stadium Journey writers have visited all Low A ballparks, and we present you our 2024 rankings based on our FANFARE ranking system. This scale considers a venue’s concessions, game day atmosphere, surrounding neighborhood, fan support, access, return on investment, and more. Therefore, our rankings are much different than many others, and often our scale creates much debate. However, that is the main reason to make lists like this to create debate and discussion, right? As mentioned, our rankings are based solely on our FANFARE score. However, as you read through the list, you will see quite a few ties. In the case of a tie between several venues, a counsel of Stadium Journey elders is consulted to break the ties. We encourage you to share your input on our Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram pages. 1. Pelicans Ballpark – Myrtle Beach Pelicans 4.71 Steve Ohnsman - The Myrtle Beach Pelicans have called TicketReturn.com Field their home since 1999 and it is an excellent minor league facility. Located across the street from a large entertainment/dining/shopping complex named Broadway at the Beach, anyone could make an entertaining day of the two properties. The City of Myrtle Beach is heavily oriented to tourists and families, offering many hotels/resorts/golf courses/restaurants, and the Pelicans staff appear to do a great job of attracting local residents and tourists. 2. Segra Park – Columbia Fireflies 4.14 David Welch - Professional baseball would make a return to the South Carolina capital in 2016 when the Savannah Sand Gnats would leave coastal Georgia for a newly built stadium in Columbia. Initially, the South Atlantic League Class A affiliate of the New York Mets. The 2021 restructuring of minor league baseball saw changes for the Fireflies – not only did their affiliation change from the Mets to the Kansas City Royals, but they also moved from the South Atlantic League to the Carolina League but would remain a Class A affiliate. Despite the change in leagues and affiliates, the Fireflies have done well in drawing fans and putting on an entertaining game experience since their inception in 2016 through today. 3. Joseph P. Riley Park – Charlestown RiverDogs 4.14 Lloyd Brown - Joseph P. Riley, Jr. Park has served as the home field for the Charleston RiverDogs since 1997. It is located along the banks of the Ashley River. The 6,000-seat stadium (known locally as The Joe) is named for longtime mayor Joseph P. Riley, Jr. Riley served as mayor for 10 terms, serving from 1975-2016, and was best known for guiding the city through the recovery from Hurricane Hugo. 4. LoanMart Field – Rancho Cucamonga Quakes 4.14 Andrei Ojeda - California’s Inland Empire is a great market for minor-league baseball. In less than 90 minutes, fans can stop by the stadiums of three minor league franchises. Perhaps the most storied of all of these franchises, call the city of Rancho Cucamonga its home. 5. LECOM Park - Bradenton Marauders 4.14 Lloyd Brown - LECOM Park offers you a unique opportunity to check out a ballpark that has seen players like Willie Stargell, Babe Ruth, Henry Aaron, Bill Mazeroski, and Ted Williams play on its field. Its Spanish Colonial architecture, and the roof-protected shade over much of the grandstands all bring you back to baseball as it used to be. 6. Virginia Credit Union Stadium – Fredericksburg Nationals 4.00 Joseph Oakes - 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. 7. BayCare Ballpark – Clearwater Threshers 4.00 David Welch - Shortly before the MLB season begins, spring training comes to a close, and training facilities transition from hosting Major League Baseball’s stars, to preparing for the upcoming season and welcoming the game’s future stars. To that end, minor league baseball’s Florida State League kicks off its season just after the MLB season starts. 8. Excite Ballpark – San Jose Giants 4.00 Chris Green - Take a historic stadium that oozes memories of the past greats with architecture that harkens back to baseball’s golden age. Mix in a loyal fanbase that is among the best in the Bay Area. Sprinkle in some stellar weather and add a pinch of minor league magic. This may well be the recipe that one would use to create the magic that is the San Jose Giants. This gem of a ballpark features everything that makes minor league baseball the wonderful draw that it is. 9. SRP Park – Augusta Greenjackets 3.86 Lloyd Brown - SRP Park and the GreenJackets continue to generate buzz in the minor-league baseball community. The facility offers amenities that are not usually found in Low-Class A-level stadiums. These amenities include theatre-style seating, a 360-degree concourse, a top-of-the-line video board in the outfield, and terrific views of both the field and the Savannah River thanks to the TaxSlayer Terrace in right field. 10. Atrium Health Ballpark – Kannapolis Cannon Ballers 3.71 David Berger - For the 2021 season, the Kannapolis Intimidators re-branded as the Kannapolis Cannon Ballers, and moved into a new downtown ballpark, retiring Intimidators Stadium, a 25-year-old ballpark they had called home since moving the franchise from Spartanburg, SC in 1995. 11. Arthur W. Perdue Stadium – Delmarva Shorebirds 3.71 Richard Smith - Arthur W. Perdue Stadium is a great stadium and the Delmarva Shorebirds go out of their way to make the stadium a place where both casual and hardcore baseball fans can be entertained and enjoy a quality game experience. 12. Grainger Stadium – Down East Wood Ducks 3.71 Michael Rusignuolo - Historic Grainger Stadium in Kinston, North Carolina, has been a fixture in minor league baseball since 1948. Owned by the city, a dedicatory plaque identifies the structure as Municipal Stadium, but it has been called Grainger Stadium after the local prominent Grainger family who donated half the land for the ballpark and whose name you will find plastered all over the city since its inception. 13. Banner Island Ballpark – Stockton Ports 3.71 Meg Minard - The Stockton Ballpark, affectionately referred to by locals as Banner Island Ballpark, sits on what no longer is an island in Stockton, CA. The inlets have mostly been filled in, but the name lives on. 14. Joker Merchant Stadium – Lakeland Flying Tigers 3.71 Chris Green - Publix Field at Joker Merchant Stadium is a beautiful facility thanks to its latest renovation, and the Flying Tigers are a team that tends to get lost in the shuffle of Florida’s bustling sports world, but is no less deserving of a visit. Easily one of the best facilities in the Florida State League, things are looking up for the Flying Tigers. 15. Lake Elsinore Diamond – Lake Elsinore Storm 3.71 Andrei Ojeda - One of the biggest draws to The Diamond is the ballpark’s aesthetic appeal along with its natural surroundings. Over the last several years seating capacity has decreased to create a more intimate and sociable ballpark experience. 16. Clover Park – Port St. Lucie Mets 3.57 Meg Minard - Clover Park opened in 1988 and has gone by various names based on sponsorship, but it has always been the Met's home. The stadium holds 7,160 for spring training, but that number is greatly reduced for the Single-A St. Lucie Mets games as portions of the seating area are closed off in the summer. 17. Jackie Robinson Ballpark – Daytona Tortugas 3.43 Chris Green - The idea of a baseball team playing in a beach city in Florida seems about as idyllic as one can imagine, and the stadium surely lives up to the image. With great views from the seats, fans in Daytona are treated to a great experience on game day. 18. Hammond Stadium – Fort Myers Mighty Mussels 3.43 Chris Green - Talking about minor league baseball stadiums, purists look for the old and historic stadiums, while others look for the newest and shiniest facilities. Hammond Stadium may not initially fit either of these categories, having been built in 1991. However, a closer look reveals that the renovations in 2014-15 have completely transformed this once hum-drum facility into a beautiful, tropical oasis in southwest Florida. 19. Roger Dean Chevrolet Stadium – Jupiter Hammerheads 3.43 Meg Minard - Roger Dean Stadium and the Jupiter Hammerheads provide an enjoyable game day experience at a reasonable price. With all the promotions and game day activities, families and fans of all ages should enjoy their time at a game. 20. Roger Dean Chevrolet Stadium – Palm Beach Cardinals 3.43 Meg Minard - Taking in a game at Roger Dean Chevrolet Stadium is a great option for families, large groups, and individual fans alike. If you want somewhere to get out and enjoy the beautiful Florida weather while watching some quality baseball, consider taking in a Palm Beach Cardinals game. 21. San Manuel Stadium – Inland Empire 66ers 3.29 Meg Minard - Nothing special stands out about San Manuel Stadium. It does provide fabulous customer service and a decent game day experience. Go with family and friends on a Friday and get an inexpensive, enjoyable evening out. 22. Salem Memorial Ballpark – Salem Red Sox 3.14 David Welch - Baseball stadiums are different than those of other sports, in that the natural surroundings play an important role in how memorable an experience a visit can be. The views at Carilion Clinic Field provided by the nearby Blue Ridge Mountains provide possibly the most impressive backdrop in all of the Carolina League. 23. Chukchansi Park – Fresno Grizzlies 3.14 Meg Minard - Chukchansi is a Native American Indian tribe in central California, known for their beliefs in and advocating early learning and giving students the tools they need to succeed. This also includes continuing education of their historic culture. The tribe owns and operates the Chukchansi Gold Resort and Casino. That casino owns the naming rights to downtown Fresno’s Chukchansi Park. 24. TD Ballpark – Dunedin Blue Jays 3.14 Eric Hasman - TD Ballpark opened in 1990. It is the home of the Single-A Dunedin Blue Jays and the spring training home of the Toronto Blue Jays since 1977. The ballpark is built on the site of Grant Field, which was the original home of the Jays. The city of Dunedin and this location are the only home that the Blue Jays have ever had since their inception as a franchise in 1977. 25. Segra Stadium – Fayetteville Woodpeckers 3.00 Jared Goodman - While Segra Stadium is unique in some areas, overall it’s a pretty plain vanilla ballpark. The team does a good job of drawing fans and entertaining them on game day, but the high prices and distant parking options are bound to turn some folks away. Hopefully, the revitalization of downtown Fayetteville will keep fans engaged, and it will be exciting to see what the final product will be. 26. The Bank of the James Stadium – Lynchburg Hillcats 3.00 Aaron Terry - The atmosphere can be somewhat laid back and down-home at the ballpark. A Hillcats game is comfortable and relaxing but not over the top in excitement or exuberance. That said, there are other parks nearby you could visit with bigger crowds and better amenities. But if you do find yourself at The Bank of the James Stadium for a game, you will certainly have a decent time. 27. Five County Stadium – Carolina Mudcats 2.86 Gregory Koch - It seems like in North Carolina, there is a baseball stadium just about everywhere you look. Compared to many of those stadiums, Five County Stadium disappoints. Although it isn’t a terrible stadium by any means, it’s nowhere near as good as many other stadiums in the area, including in nearby Durham. 28. John Thurman Field – Modesto Nuts 2.86 Meg Minard - The Modesto Nuts at John Thurman Field provides a traditional minor league baseball experience and families should take advantage. It’s pretty bare bones but the fans that attend do have a pleasant summer evening out. Here’s hoping more fans will stop by and enjoy a game in the future. 29. George M. Steinbrenner Stadium – Tampa Tarpons 2.71 Dennis Morrell - The stadium is a fortress – it exudes Yankees power, money, and status. Steinbrenner Field befits a team like the New York Yankees, yet the presence of their Single-A team in this cavernous building is almost an embarrassment. 30. Valley Strong Ballpark – Visalia Rawhide 2.57 Meg Minard - Valley Strong Ballpark is a stadium one will like because of its quirkiness and affordable prices or not like because of its accessibility and an unsafe neighborhood. It is in the ‘Gateway of Sequoia’ so if in town during the summer, consider checking out a game and let us know your thoughts.

With MLB playoffs underway, it's time for us at Stadium Journey to once again rank the game-day experience at all 30 Major League Baseball Ballparks.   Will this year’s ranking be the last one the Oakland Coliseum is listed?  The next few months will tell. Stadium Journey ranks arenas based on their unique FANFARE rating scale, which incorporates a venue’s food, atmosphere, neighborhood, fans, accessibility, value, and other factors to create an overall score.  When two or more venues are tied, Stadium Journey consults its Council of Elders to break the tie.  It’s a different way of looking at venues and produces some variability in our lists that you don’t see elsewhere. As usual, we predict that this list will garner a great deal of debate. We welcome your input by joining discussions on our Facebook and Twitter pages.  We’re sure your MLB Stadium ranking list differs from ours, and isn’t that what makes these lists so appealing? 1.       Petco Park - San Diego Padres 4.71 Andrei Ojeda - Celebrating its 20th year, Petco Park continues to play a huge role in the revitalization of the local area throughout the East Village. With a vibrant neighborhood and enthusiastic fans coming in droves along with one of the more picturesque parks among the 30, it’s no wonder Petco Park continually ranks high in any ballpark rankings. 2.       Progressive Field - Cleveland Guardians 4.71 Chris Green - Progressive Field has become a shining example of how to maintain a beautiful baseball stadium over the years, altering the seating in the upper deck, incorporating local food and beverage providers, and maintaining a modern look in a facility that is nearing its 30th year in operation. 3.       PNC Park - Pittsburgh Pirates 4.57 Lloyd Brown - For any fan of baseball, a trip to see the Pittsburgh Pirates at PNC Park is an absolute must. With some improved play on the field, hopefully, more fans will embrace the experience and flood the park on the banks of the Allegheny. 4.       Oracle Park - San Francisco Giants 4.57 Andrei Ojeda - Since its opening in 2000, Oracle Park has featured some of the busiest turnstiles in all of baseball. From the views beyond the bay to the nightly breeze, Oracle Park, with its gorgeous surroundings anchored by the bay, has done more than its share to bring baseball fans to its gem. 5.       Busch Stadium - St Louis Cardinals 4.57 Chris Green – Rising in place of its former namesake, Busch Stadium features stellar food options, a scenic skyline for a backdrop, welcoming and kind fans and staff, and an excellent stadium design for optimum viewing from all angles. 6.       Citi Field - New York Mets 4.43 Richard Smith - Citi Field is located in Flushing Meadows–Corona Park, specifically the Willets Point neighborhood. The neighborhood near the Flushing River has been known for years for its automobile shops and junkyards. Changes do appear to be happening. 7.       Fenway Park - Boston Red Sox 4.29 Paul Baker - How old is Fenway Park? It opened the same week that the Titanic sank. While other cities are building billion-dollar complexes to replace ballparks that are only 20 years old, Boston they are simply finding new ways to put modern touches on this classic diamond. 8.       Target Field - Minnesota Twins 4.29 Gregory Koch – From the Minnie and Paul sign to the unique concession items to all the other extras here, a trip to Target Field for a Twins game should be on every fan’s bucket list. 9.       Great American Ball Park - Cincinnati Reds 4.29 Dave Cottenie - The Cincinnati Reds have grasped a hold of their history and celebrate it better and stronger than any other team in Major League Baseball. Great American Ball Park captures that feeling and offers a fantastic baseball experience. If the Reds are doing well, it is that much better and must be considered among the elite of MLB. 10.   American Family Field - Milwaukee Brewers 4.29 Marc Viquez - American Family Field is one of those major league ballparks that might not stand out to most, but after a visit, you might want to reconsider. It is known for its tailgating, loyal fans, great food, and racing sausages. 11.   Oriole Park at Camden Yards - Baltimore Orioles 4.14 Richard Smith - Oriole Park at Camden Yards opened in 1992 and has been considered one of the best Major League Baseball stadiums in the league. Before its opening, the landscape of professional baseball was littered with boring, multipurpose bowl stadiums. 12.   Coors Field - Colorado Rockies 4.14 Michael Davis - 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. 13.   Chase Field - Arizona Diamondbacks 4.14 Meg Minard - The D-Backs play their home games at Chase Field, formerly known as Bank One Ballpark. It is one of eight major league baseball stadiums with a dome or retractable roof, definitely needed for the scorching hot summers in Phoenix, AZ. 14.   Minute Maid Park - Houston Astros 4.14 Eric Moreno - The Astros and Minute Maid Park continue to find ways to make game days feel like big-time events each season. A lot of this is due to the massive amount of success the ball club has experienced in the last decade-plus. From the moment you walk up to the Juice Box, everything becomes a celebration of baseball and the Astros. 15.   Dodger Stadium - Los Angeles Dodgers 4.14 Andrei Ojeda - Recent enhancements throughout the third oldest yard in the Majors have made the Dodger Stadium experience much more accessible for fans wanting to experience as much of the historic venue and have assured us that Dodger Stadium will be the home to Dodger Baseball for many more years to come. 16.   T-Mobile Park - Seattle Mariners 4.00 Marc Viquez - T-Mobile Park provides everything traditional and non-traditional fans would ever need at a ballpark. The assortment of food, beverages, and value options is impressive, along with its location to public transportation.  The views of the city and The Sound are the real highlights of the ballpark.   17.   Comerica Park - Detroit Tigers 4.00 Marc Viquez - Comerica Park doesn't get a lot of the attention that other major league ballparks do, but it stands out among many of its contemporaries. When you walk around the concourse and visit certain areas, you know you are at a ballpark in Detroit. The accessibility, surrounding neighborhood, and unique touches make a Tiger game worth your time in the Motor City. 18.   Yankee Stadium - New York Yankees 4.00 Greg Venuto - Yankee Stadium does a good job of blending old and new. Yankee Stadium's frieze is a classic piece of architecture. It lined the roof of the original Yankee Stadium from 1923 to 2008 and has been carried over to the latest version. Monument Park and the Museum are impressive, as well as the bars in the left and right centers, where young people enjoy congregating. 19.   Citizens Bank Park - Philadelphia Phillies 4.00 Dave Cottenie - With a deep history as one of the oldest teams in Major League Baseball, the Philadelphia Phillies offer an excellent experience that all baseball fans should put as a must-do.  Citizens Bank Park is an attractive and fun facility, especially if the Phillies are winning and, at the end of the game, they ring the bell! 20.   Wrigley Field - Chicago Cubs 3.86 Lloyd Brown - There are very few major league ballparks that can be described as “classic.” Wrigley Field fills that description. Wrigley Field opened as Weeghman Park in 1914, making it the second oldest ballpark still in use, trailing only Boston’s Fenway Park, which opened in 1912. While the ballpark has gone through several renovations over the years, it has retained many elements of the stadium’s original design. 21.   Guaranteed Rate Field - Chicago White Sox 3.86 Marc Viquez - The Chicago White Sox have been working very hard to improve the amenities at the stadium. The past few seasons have seen renovations to the concourse concerning food and beverage service, social areas for fans, a brand-new scoreboard, and fan-friendly pricing on game day tickets. 22.   Globe Life Field - Texas Rangers 3.86 Michael Davis - The third and current home of the Texas Rangers is Globe Life Field, a retractable roof stadium that opened in 2020 with a seating capacity of just over 40,000; the new ballpark is just across the street from the Ranger's former home. 23.   Angel Stadium - Los Angeles Angels 3.71 Andrei Ojeda - 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.   24.   Truist Park - Atlanta Braves 3.57 Lloyd Brown - Truist Park is everything fans could ask for in a baseball experience. The overall experience at Truist Park is top-notch when factoring in The Battery and the excitement of the product on the field. 25.   Kauffman Stadium - Kansas City Royals 3.57 David Welch-Kauffman Stadium is a comfortable place to watch baseball; the Royals have done well to keep an aging stadium from feeling run down.  Give the Royals a lot of credit for not just maintaining the stadium but continuously tailoring it for the desired experience of different fans. 26.   Nationals Park - Washington Nationals 3.57 Gregory Koch - In 2005, the Nationals came to town, and in 2008, they got a brand-new stadium. Since then, the excitement has worn off, and the crowds have steadily declined, especially as the Nationals’ performance on the field has gone downhill. That said, Nationals Park is still a nice stadium for fans to take in a Major League Baseball game. 27.   Rogers Centre - Toronto Blue Jays 3.57 Dave Cottenie - The Toronto Blue Jays joined MLB as an expansion team in 1977. Currently owned by Rogers Communications, which also owns Rogers Centre, the Jays have carved themselves a rather large niche as “Canada’s” baseball team. The height of their popularity culminated in the 1992 and 1993 World Series Championships. 28.   loanDepot park - Miami Marlins 3.57 Richard Smith - loanDepot park may never make the top of MLB baseball stadium lists, but it is still an enjoyable place to watch a game in an atmosphere that feels very true to its environment. 29.   Tropicana Field - Tampa Bay Rays 3.00 Lloyd Brown - It is no secret that the home of the Rays is seen as the ugly duckling of MLB stadiums. Its exterior has no appeal, and its support system of wires and beams has resulted in a set of ground rules to cover plays where the ball has hit a beam or support wire. On the other hand, the Rays are a very talented team and frequently go to the playoffs.   30.   Oakland Coliseum - Oakland Athletics 2.57 Andrei Ojeda - The Oakland Coliseum, along with the city of Oakland, has taken a beating. From the highly publicized crime rates to the more recent scandal surrounding Oakland's mayor and soon the loss of their beloved baseball team, when all is said and done, the city in the East Bay will have lost all three of their major professional teams, among other wounds dealt to the city.

The SRO GT World Challenge America series has been a staple for sportscar racing fans for decades. 2024 saw another banner year for the series, with thrilling on track action across seven of the top circuits in America. For the first time, Stadium Journey is presenting our ranking of the GT World Challenge America circuits. Tracks are ranked according to Stadium Journey's patented FANFARE rating scale, which takes into account a venue's food and beverage options, race day atmosphere, surrounding neighborhood, fan support, access (both inside and outside the track), return on investment, and an extra category for anything that doesn't fall in the other categories. When two or more tracks receive the same score, a Stadium Journey Council of Elders is consulted to break the ties. To view the complete review for each track, just click on the link below the photos of each event. Let the green flag fall on our 2024 rankings… 1.  Road America 4.57 Chris Green - Road America is often regarded as one of the greatest race tracks in the world, let alone the US. The “supercars” on track offer stellar racing over four days, including unrivaled fan access and unique fan event opportunities. Racing in a beautiful setting that proves to be both fan-friendly and easy to navigate, this summer event is a must-see on the SRO slate. 2.  Barber Motorsports Park 4.29 Chris Green - The “Augusta of Motorsports” has hosted numerous race series over the years. While having hosted sportscar racing in the past, as well as numerous lower division amateur series, Barber Motorsports Park welcomed back the SRO America group with open arms in 2024. 3.  Circuit of the Americas 4.00 Chris Green - As if to blast the stereotype of everything being bigger in Texas into flat-out appropriateness, Circuit of the Americas (often denoted as COTA for short) in Austin provides no better example of this. The annual SRO GT World Challenge weekend is also becoming a fan favorite, drawing racing fans with five classes on track throughout the weekend, showcasing the best racing action with some of the biggest stars in sportscar racing. 4.  Indianapolis Motor Speedway 3.86 Chris Green - Indianapolis Motor Speedway is the literal definition of a motorsports mecca in the United States. Every inch of the track oozes with history. As with other SRO America events, while the track may not sell out every seat, attendance has increased each year with impressive consistency, thanks no doubt to the organization’s hard efforts in the marketing department. 5.  Sebring International Raceway 3.57 Chris Green - The annual SRO America weekend, featuring no less than five race series on track, showcases sportscar racing’s best machines on this historic circuit. Running the former WWII B-17 airfield course, this race is a great place for families and car enthusiasts, complete with car shows and thrilling race action. 6.  Sonoma Raceway 3.29 Chris Green - The action on the track is top-notch as SRO World Challenge hosts no less than 10 races during the weekend across 5 different race groups. Fans can catch everything from the top-level GT3 race teams to the Touring Car and Toyota GR Cup machines of the up-and-coming racers. Four days of practice, qualifying, and racing make this one of the most jam-packed events of the year for the track and the fans, which means you won’t go long without seeing some great race action. 7.  Virginia International Raceway 3.14 Chris Green - The winding roads through the hills of rural southern Virginia are challenging for many, while also providing a beautiful, verdant backdrop for some of racing’s best to test each other’s mettle. Visiting the track has become a must-do for some of racing’s biggest fans over the years, and a visit to the facility helps you understand why rather quickly.

Another season of Triple-A baseball has come and gone. This past season, 30 clubs in the International and Pacific Coast League took the field and played games from early April to late September, resulting in 12,492,947 fans walking through the gates. The International League lured 8,345,881 patrons to its ballparks for an average of 5,620 per game. The Pacific Coast League attracted 4,147,066 fans on the season for an average of 5,551 per game.  We present our rankings of the overall experience. Factors we include in our ratings are food and beverage in the ballpark, overall atmosphere, the neighborhood, the fans, access (which includes parking, traffic, restrooms, and concourses), return on investment, and an “extras” category for any unique or bonus points. We use our official ratings when determining the ranking with “crowd reviews” – those reviews from our members – as our primary tiebreaker. Without further ado, our 2024 Minor League Baseball Triple-A ballpark rankings. 1. CHS Field, St. Paul Saints (James Hilchen) - Another year at the number one spot. Moving to affiliated baseball in 2021 hasn’t changed what has always made CHS Field such a great place. From the employees to the food, to the entertainment, to the amazing museum, a day at the ballpark doesn't get much better than in St. Paul. 2. Durham Bulls Athletic Park, Durham Bulls (James Hilchen) - Coming in at number two for a second year in a row, the Bulls have a long and storied history in North Carolina. As someone who has seen my share of minor league ballparks over the years, Durham Bulls Athletic Park just might be my favorite. Great scenery, food for every taste, and fun reminders of an iconic movie make this a ballpark that should be on every baseball fan’s bucket list. Coca-Cola Park - Lehigh Valley IronPigs (Steven Kee) - The Lehigh Valley IronPigs have a reputation across the nation, and attending a game will impress everyone from baseball purists to non-baseball fans. The wide concourses, open views of the field, and inventive promotions attract large crowds year after year. The Pigs offer creative merchandise, specialty nights, and social areas that are among the tops in minor-league baseball.  Victory Field - Indianapolis Indians (Marc Viquez) - Victory Field has been a beacon of summertime fun for the Indianapolis area for over 25 years. Its look and amenities have changed slightly, but its open concourse and massive lawn seating have remained unchanged. Fans flock to games for enjoyment with friends and family, while others root for their club in the grandstand. It’s simple, it’s cozy, and it’s what fans expect in Indianapolis.  First Horizon Park - Nashville Sounds (Paul Baker) - One of the hippest spots to be in town is First Horizon Park. The ballpark is everything fans in the Music City could have ever dreamed of, and it offers fans a place to enjoy the games or socialize with friends. The heartbeat is The Band Box behind left field; it offers everything from homemade food, a putt-putt course, barbecue, lounge chairs, and outdoor games from shuffleboard to table tennis.  Truist Field - Charlotte Knights The ballpark with a view. The home of the Charlotte Knights is located downtown and offers stunning panoramas of the city’s massive skyline. With that kind of backdrop, it’s hard to imagine a better place to watch baseball; however, Knight’s Castle is ranked sixth on our list. The venue offers a massive team gift shop and $5 parking across the street in the garage. Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark - Oklahoma City Baseball Club The ballpark continues to be a great place for people to have a good night with family and friends while watching baseball. This ballpark is a hidden gem in a city that doesn’t get much love as a tourist spot, yet all the fans know that Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark and OKC should be on any ballpark chaser’s bucket list. Innovative Field - Rochester Red Wings (Dave Cottenie) - The Rochester Red Wings are a cornerstone franchise in the International League.  They have weathered the ups and downs of Minor League Baseball and come out the other end still strong.  Fans looking for a solid baseball experience that will offer tremendous value should check out the Rochester Red Wings at Innovative  Field.  AutoZone Park - Memphis Redbirds (Paul Baker) - The AutoZone Park developers spared no expense when they built the park. It is money well spent, as it offers a facility that feels more like a major league stadium. The exterior of the stadium is brick with lots of ornamental iron. There is a fan plaza outside of the main gates that features several baseball statues and metal plates of art featuring a stylized stadium.  Polar Park - Worcester Red Sox (Paul Baker) - Polar Park is wedged into a small footprint, making for some unique design choices, and space is at a premium. There is a small entry plaza leading to the front entrance that screams “warehouse” more than “ballpark.” This design choice makes the home of the WooSox stand out from the standard red brick and green seat ballparks. There is an incredible amount of attention and connection to the community at Polar Park.  Sahlen Field - Buffalo Bisons (Dave Cottenie) - The downtown ballpark started a revolution in baseball design, even before Camden.  It does look its age for the most part, but it is still a destination for any ballpark traveler. The concrete exterior is made with marble inlets to give it some style.  Outside the third base side, there is a large square that is perfect for meeting others before the game.  Las Vegas Ballpark - Las Vegas Aviators  Summerlin, Nevada, is about 25 minutes from the Las Vegas Strip, and they’ve chosen to eschew the bright lights or neon that could have easily been the thematic center of the ballpark instead of sticking to the Aviators theme. The profile of the upper deck has the outline of an old-school airplane hangar, and the signage throughout the park is clear and large, like an airport, but without the clutter of a million gates. 13. Principal Park - Iowa Cubs The home of the I-Cubs is a bit older than some of the others in the circuit, but its location is ideal at the convergence of the Raccoon and Des Moines Rivers. Fans only need to walk a few blocks to various restaurants, bars, breweries, lodging, and the famous Des Moines Farmers Market.  14.  Cheney Stadium -  Tacoma Rainiers Cheney Stadium was called the “100-Day Wonder,” as it was constructed in less than four months to be awarded a minor-league affiliation with the San Francisco Giants. Leading this effort was Tacoma businessman Ben Cheney, who was honored for this achievement by having his name placed on the stadium and is also acknowledged through a statue of his likeness being placed in the bleachers, where it still resides today.  15. Sutter Health Park - Sacramento River Cats Sutter Health Park has been a hit with the Sacramento community as well as the baseball community. It is among the favorites of minor league travelers and hometown fans who enjoy nights out at the spacious ballpark. Sightlines are great from any seat, and lawn seating allows for an inexpensive way to bring the whole family. 16. Louisville Slugger Field - Louisville Bats (Marc Viquez) - The ballpark on the Ohio River completed major renovations that opened up the outfield concourse and right field corner. The home of the Bats now incorporates grass terrace seating near the foul pole, along with social spaces and outdoor bars. The city’s skyline and interstate system drape the skies in the background and the smell of barbecue filters through the warehouse lobby from Against The Grain Brewery.  17. Huntington Park - Columbus Clippers (Marc Viquez) - The home of the Clippers is nestled in The Arena District, which also houses a soccer stadium and hockey arena, but the ballpark is a star of its own. The outfield concourse is set up like a neighborhood park with trees, benches, and tables. On the open concourse, multiple images and team history are displayed on the walls, and fans can peek through the gates behind left field. 18. RGCU Field at Isotopes Park - Albuquerque Isotopes  Isotopes Park is an amazing venue to take in a ballgame. The view is spectacular, the team that presents the game-day experience is the best around, and the prices are reasonable.  It’s close to the airport, so if in the Southwest, make a special trip to Isotopes Park. 19. Dell Diamond - Round Rock Express The Dell Diamond offers plenty of glitz and glamor that includes carefully detailed concession stands offering everything from Tex-Mex to barbecue, a two-story outfield seating area, and an outfield concourse that includes a full-service bar, a rock climbing wall, and VR batting cages.  If you care for the more relaxed baseball atmosphere, there are plenty of seats behind the infield. 20. 121 Financial Park - Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp The ballpark began as a Double-A venue but was promoted to Triple-A status in 2021. Its design with lawn seating allows up to 11,000 guests and offers a few unique features that include an active church inside its walls, a Tiki-Terrace down the 3rd baseline, and a 9-foot high mound for seating called the “knuckle” in the left-field corner. A covered awning above the concourse also helps from the Florida rains. 21. Fifth Third Field - Toledo Mud Hens (Marc Viquez) - The neighborhood surrounding the ballpark is known as Hensville, and it can become lively before games that include activities for kids, pre-game concerts, and local eateries full of guests. Once inside the ballpark, fans are treated to the usual characteristics of minor league games, from great food, on-field promotions, and one of the better team stores in the business. If you can, check out the view from “The Roost” above the right-field corner. 22. Southwest University Park – El Paso Chihuahuas  This stadium is aesthetically pleasing, makes good use of its downtown location, and has something for everyone. The major weakness here is the price, which is a bit high for minor league ball, though again, you can find ways around it. El Paso is quite off the beaten path for most sports travelers, but it is well worth a trip to see the Chihuahuas. 23. Smith’s Ballpark – Salt Lake Bees   Smith’s Ballpark is a beautiful facility, with the main concourse looking like it has a modern industrial theme. The seats are comfortable, and fans can also wander the stadium at will, giving you the option to take in the game from either your seat or the outfield viewing mounds. The view in the outfield rivals the best in the majors, with beautiful mountains adorning the view for every fan at Smith’s Ballpark. 24. Constellation Field - Sugar Land Space Cowboys The Houston Astros top-farm club rebranded as the Space Cowboys this past season and ushered in areas of space-theme art, decoration, and signage throughout the ballpark. The colors of orange, light blue, and navy have added a nice touch of color to the Texas-shaped scoreboard, and so has the playing of the old-school hip-hop classic “Space Cowboy” at the end of home games.    25.  Werner Park, Omaha StormChasers The ballpark is several miles away from downtown Omaha, but Werner Park offers a distinction from other Triple-A ballparks. It has a layout that offers seating close to the field, a broken-up press and suite area, stone seating and floral arrangements, and carnival rides behind the outfield wall. The venue almost feels like its own little town. 26.  Coolray Field - Gwinnett Stripers Coolray Field moves up the list after finishing last place the past few seasons. It is a well-designed, attractive place to watch minor league baseball. Its difficulty in attracting fans to games is that it competes with the major league club’s fan base and the fact that Atlanta's Braves home, Truist Park, is only 35 miles down the road.  27.  Harbor Park - Norfolk Tides The ballpark is closing on 30 years of baseball and was once the pride of the International League. The times have changed, but there is a lot to enjoy from its downtown setting, the sounds of ships in the distance, and an enclosed restaurant with views of the field. 28. Greater Nevada Field - Reno Aces A game at Greater Nevada Field represents a solid all-around value. Minor quibbles with parking and concession lines are made up for with a high degree of interactive entertainment and a great selection of high-quality concessions.  29. NBT Bank Stadium - Syracuse Mets Time will tell if the 2019 change of affiliation to the New York Mets will reverse the Syracuse baseball attendance fortunes, but the squad has nearly nowhere to go but up. The situation does look to be improving. Early on in the campaign, the Mets have crawled within striking distance of the middle of the league’s attendance pack. 30. PNC Field - Scranton/Wilkes-Barre Railriders The renovation PNC Field underwent in 2012 has done a lot of good. Architecturally, the stadium has seen massive improvements. That being said, the RailRiders seem to be leaning heavily on their affiliation with the Yankees rather than trying to attract fans by creating their own identity.

The pinnacle of sportscar endurance racing in North America is without a doubt the IMSA WeatherTech Sportscar Series. 2024 saw record crowds at 10 of their 11 race weekends, furthering the growth that has been visible in racing for the past few years. For the first time, Stadium Journey presents our IMSA WeatherTech Sportscar Championship rankings. Tracks are ranked according to Stadium Journey's patented FANFARE rating scale, which takes into account a venue's food and beverage options, race day atmosphere, surrounding neighborhood, fan support, access (both inside and outside the track), return on investment, and an extra category for anything that doesn't fall in the other categories. When two or more tracks receive the same score, a Stadium Journey Council of Elders is consulted to break the ties. To view the complete review for each track, just click on the link below the photos of each event. Let's get to our 2024 IMSA rankings… 1.  Rolex 24 at Daytona 4.71 Chris Green - The historic Rolex 24 Hours at Daytona is one of the most well-known sports car races in the world. An endurance battle that attracts the best manufacturers and drivers from around the world, this race is on any true race fan’s bucket list. 2.  Road America 4.71 Chris Green - Road America is often regarded as one of the greatest race tracks in the world, let alone the US. Racing in a beautiful setting that proves to be both fan-friendly and easy to navigate, this summer event is a must-see on the IMSA schedule. 3.  Grand Prix of Long Beach 4.57 Chris Green - The Grand Prix of Long Beach is America’s longest-running street race, and it is easy to see why. The location in Southern California is perfect for a spring race in April, and the excitement on the track is also top-notch. Featuring the IndyCar Series and IMSA WeatherTech Sportscar Series as the top-billed race series, in addition to several support events, fans will have no shortage of action to watch while at this annual event. 4.  Detroit Grand Prix 4.29 Chris Green - The Detroit Grand Prix has a long history in motorsports. Initially racing through downtown streets, it moved to the city’s Belle Isle for several decades. Finally, starting in 2023, it has returned to downtown Detroit, complete with a wild mix of difficult corners ripe for exciting racing. On top of the on-track product, one could argue this is one of the single most accessible street races from a fan perspective, with an overwhelming majority of the track viewing opportunities in non-ticketed areas. 5. Petit Le Mans 4.00 Chris Green - Petit Le Mans has become a cult classic event in the sportscar world. For 10 hours, the best in sportscar racing battle it out in a thrilling multi-class endurance race through the hills of northern Georgia. Nestled an hour north of Atlanta, Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta offers some iconic sights and non-stop racing action over four days in the fall. And, being the season finale for multiple IMSA series, the stakes couldn’t be any higher. 6.  Indianapolis Motor Speedway 4.00 Chris Green - While Indianapolis is synonymous with racing in America, North America’s premier sportscar series hadn’t run there since the early 2010s. New for 2024, the IMSA WeatherTech Sportscar Series increased the length of its race, from the standard two and a half hours to a six-hour endurance race.  7.  12 Hours of Sebring 4.00 Chris Green - The historic Sebring 12-Hour sportscar race began in 1950 and has grown into one of the world’s most revered motorsports events during its long history. The world’s best drivers and teams have competed and won here, and every year seems to up the quality of the product on the track. If you are even a modest race fan, Sebring is a must-see for you. 8.  Canadian Tire Motorsports Park 4.00 Chris Green - 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. 9.  WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca 4.00 Chris Green - WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca is a world-famous speedway housed atop the high hills outside of Monterey, California. The speedway has hosted some of the world’s biggest racing stars over various racing series, and continues to be a fan and driver favorite as the years progress. One of the biggest draws of the year, IMSA’s annual spring visit to the track brings large crowds and plenty of on-track action. 10.  Daytona Roar Before the 24 4.00 Chris Green - A week before the historic Rolex 24, Daytona International Speedway is already buzzing with race action. An event that used to be held three weeks before the current date, the Roar Before the 24 has now become part of the fabric that makes up IMSA’s return to racing in January. 11.  Sahlen’s 6 Hours at The Glen 3.86 Chris Green - The Wakins Glen 6 Hours began in 1948 at the famed road course in the finger lakes region of New York. Since then, the race has attracted some of the greatest racers in all of motorsports, across a wide variety of manufacturers. The area is full of beautiful trees, meaning fans can find some shade in the hot summer sun. In addition, the track is laid out to be one of the fastest road courses in North America, if not the world, making the on-track action some of the most exciting in all of sportscar racing. 12.  Virginia International Raceway 3.29 Chris Green - The famed Virginia International Raceway has been a favorite visit among sportscar racers for decades. The winding roads through the hills of rural southern Virginia are challenging for many, while also providing a beautiful, verdant backdrop for some of racing’s best to test each other’s mettle. IMSA weekend is without a doubt the biggest race weekend of the year, which means this is a must-see for sportscar fans in the area.

The FCS (Football Championship Subdivision) playoffs are now underway, with the National Championship game taking place on January 6, 2025, in Frisco, Texas. We are pleased to release our ratings for the Top 25 stadiums at FCS stadiums. These rankings utilized our FANFARE scoring system, which considers all the factors that encompass the gameday atmosphere: food, atmosphere, neighborhood, fan support, accessibility, return on investment, and extras (anything unique to that stadium.) We have several facilities where stadiums had identical scores. These ties were broken by a vote of our reviewers, breaking the deadlocks. We don’t expect you to agree with some of these rankings. We encourage you to have lively discussions with your fellow football fans. Feel free to share your thoughts on our social medias. 1. Washington-Grizzly Stadium - Montana Grizzlies 4.43 Jason Karp - Our top-rated stadium features spectacular natural surroundings, a lively fanbase, close up views of the action and an always competitive team year after year. 2. William B. Greene Stadium - East Tennessee State Buccaneers 4.43 Lloyd Brown - Greene Stadium takes our second spot, as its natural setting at the base of a mountain provides a stunning backdrop to the games. The mountain also tends to trap the noise generated by the fans, resulting in making communications for the visiting teams very difficult. 3. Harlen Hunter Stadium - Lindenwood Lions 4.29 Lloyd Brown - One of the most recent additions to the FCS level of football is Lindenwood University in St. Charles, Missouri. The on-campus Harlan Hunter Stadium features a sleek modern design and one of the largest videoboards in the FCS. The pregame programs and the Lion’s Pride activities create a lot of energy, resulting in a high score for fan support. 4. Johnson Hagood Stadium - The Citadel Bulldogs 4.29 Aaron Terry - The pageantry of a football game at a service academy is always very special. This is very true at The Citadel in Charleston, SC. The entire cadet corps marches from the campus to the off-campus Johnson-Haygood Stadium prior to each contest. Recent renovations to the stadium have increased the seating capacity, and the fieldhouse at one end of the stadium features a façade that mimics the architecture found throughout the Citadel campus. 5. Rhodes Stadium - Elon Phoenix 4.14 Will Halpern - The home of the Phoenix is rising in our ratings based on the great sight lines, terrific North Carolina BBQ being served at its concession stands, and the sounds coming from the Fire of the Carolinas Band. 6. Franklin Field - Penn Quakers 4.14 Gregory Koch - Like many other structures in Philadelphia, Penn Stadium has withstood the test of time. It is one of the oldest college football stadiums still in use in the United States. It has frequently served as the home of the iconic Army-Navy football game, the home of the Penn Quakers every year, and has frequently been the host for some Philadelphia Eagles games when there has been a scheduling conflict. 7. Truist Stadium - North Carolina A&T Aggies 4.14 Will Halpern - Our top HCBU stadium is Truist Stadium in Greensboro, NC. It features a dedicated fanbase, a terrific band, and a team that is always in the thick of the MEAC conference championship race. 8. Finley Stadium - Chattanooga Mocs 4.14 Lloyd Brown - All aboard for a fun gameday experience at the home of the Mocs. The party gets underway at the Pavilion across the street from Finley Stadium, with the Marching Mocs, the cheer squads performing at the tailgating event and the Mocs football team doing their pregame walk through the crowd on their way to the stadium. Once inside the stadium, there are food trucks serving a wide variety of foods. After the games end, Finley Stadium is just a short distance from the Chattanooga Choo Choo and the Tennessee Aquarium … two of the city’s top tourist attractions. 9. Dana J. Dykhouse Stadium - South Dakota State 4.00 Lloyd Brown - The Jackrabbits have Dykhouse Stadium hopping well before the opening kickoff. SDSU fans have a great reputation for their tailgating acumen, which always includes a stop at the campus dairy store for its famous ice cream. Low ticket prices, one of the largest videoboards in an FCS venue, wonderful sightlines and back-to-back FCS national championships all add up to some great Saturdays in Brookings. 10. Bobcat Stadium - Montana State Bobcats 4.00 Lloyd Brown - The Bobcat Nation has impressed us with their enthusiasm throughout the season. They are on their feet early, as the Stampede is one of the best team entry celebrations we’ve ever witnessed. 11. E. Claiborne Robins Stadium - Richmond Spiders 4.00 Joseph Oakes - Oh, what a wonderful web they weave! A lovely, wooded setting, great concession items, a fun zone for the kids, and capacity crowds add up to a number eleven ranking for this FCS stadium. 12. Lawrence A. Wien Stadium - Columbia Lions 4.00 Jon Hart - The home of the Lions features great views of the Manhattan River, some of the cheapest ticket prices for a sports event in the Big Apple, and the panache of an Ivy League school earns this stadium a good grade. 13. Fargodome - North Dakota State Bison 4.00 Lloyd Brown - As our top-rated indoor facility, the Fargodome also has the best tailgating scene outside of any FCS venue. Once inside, the noise created by the Bison faithful can be deafening. Most important, the Fargodome provides a refuge from the harsh winter weather that typically moves into the area around the end of the season. 14. Davidson College Stadium - Davidson Wildcats 3.86 Lloyd Brown - Davidson College’s new stadium makes its debut on our top 25 stadiums list. It replaces the 100-year-old Richardson Stadium, which will now be used for track and field events. The new venue offers a wide variety of concession items, a close-to-the-field seating experience, and an extensive electronics package that was not possible in its former home. 15. First Security Field At Estes Stadium - Central Arkansas Bears 3.86 Lloyd Brown - A unique playing surface (it’s purple and silver) creates an immediate strong impression for fans watching a Bears’ home game. The low-ticket prices and on-campus location also add to the gameday experience. 16.  Stewart Stadium - Weber State Wildcats 3.86 Connor Comeau - Mother Nature is one of the first things you will notice at a Weber State football game. Stewart Stadium is located at the foot of the Wasatch Mountains in Ogden Utah. The Wildcats typically schedule late afternoon games, which allows fans to experience a spectacular view of the sunsets the area enjoys. The stadium also features an affordable family experience for both locals and visiting fans. 17. Delaware Stadium - Delaware Blue Hens 3.86 Richard Smith - The Hen’s house is a worthy venue for the state’s lone major college. It is a simple facility that enjoys a team that always seems to be in the championship mix, which results in capacity crowds. The stadium also provides easy access via the interstate highway system in the area. 18. Powers Field At Princeton Stadium - Princeton Tigers 3.86 Matthew Collins - Our second Ivy League venue on this list, Powers Field, is a modern facility at a school known for its old, historic buildings. Tiger fans enjoy the many amenities made possible by the recent building of the stadium. It is very close to the central campus, which makes it very easy for the campus community to get to the games without needing a car. The Tiger statues just outside of the stadium make a great backdrop for selfies. 19. Dakota Dome - South Dakota Coyotes 3.86 Aaron Terry - Our second indoor stadium on this list, the Dakota Dome, provides a quality viewing experience. You don’t need to worry about the elements, your seats are very close to the action on the field and the crowds are loud and enthusiastic. You also get to experience one of the toughest intrastate rivalry games in the country when the Coyotes welcome the SDSU Jackrabbits at the Dakota Dome every two years. 20. Cooper Field - Georgetown Hoyas 3.86 Gregory Koch - While many people think of Georgetown University as a basketball school, it also has a football program. Cooper Field is one of the smallest venues on this list with a capacity of  3,750. However, it is located on the Georgetown campus, making it very convenient for the students to attend. It also is the only football program within the District of Columbia, which results in several high-level government representatives attending each contest. 21. Crocker Field At Bailey Memorial Stadium - Presbyterian Blue Hose 3.86 Aaron Terry - Crocker Field is located on the lovely Presbyterian College campus in Clinton, SC. It is a relatively small stadium compared to most of the other venues on this list. This results in an intimate experience for fans attending a Blue Hose game. The statue of the Scotsman in front of the stadium also serves as a great backdrop for a selfie. 22. Cowboy Stadium - McNeese Cowboys 3.86 Paul Donaldson - “The Hole” is the second HBCU stadium on our list. It offers low ticket prices, some uniquely Cajun concessions offerings and a great P.A. announcer. The Cowboys are known for their up-tempo offense, which tends to wear out the opposition late in the games. 23. Paladin Stadium - Furman Paladins 3.71 David welch - Paladin Stadium is located on the lovely Furman University campus, which is well worth a visit, even when there is no game. Tailgating is very popular here, as the Furman campus offers plenty of shade, which is important in the hot days at the beginning of the season. The stadium is also known for its well-manicured setting, making it a very pleasing site for a game. The Paladin mascot is a very popular subject for fan photos, as he is a knight who roams the sidelines astride a horse. 24. Walkup Skydome - Northern Arizona Lumberjacks 3.57 Lloyd Brown - The Walkup Skydome is yet another indoor facility on our list of top FCS stadiums. Its domed roof is needed for the frequent heavy snowfalls in the mountainous area of Flagstaff, Arizona. The Lumberjacks know how to take advantage of the dome, as it amplifies the crowd noise, making it difficult for visiting teams to communicate on snap counts. The team lives up to its name, as the lumberjack mascot uses a chainsaw to cut up wood after each Northern Arizona score. 25. Wildcat Stadium - New Hampshire Wildcats 3.57 Aaron Terry - Our only representative from the New England region is the University of New Hampshire’s Wildcat Stadium. It is one of the oldest venues on this list, as it was built in 1936, and has gone through many renovations since. It is known for its lovely setting, especially during the fall leaf season.

The 2024-2025 season was a banner one in the National Hockey League.  The debut of the Utah Hockey Club, formerly the Arizona Coyotes and now the Utah Mammoth, highlighted a season of optimism.  The Winnipeg Jets won their first President’s Trophy as the team with the best record in the regular season.  Alexander Ovechkin of the Washington Capitals passed Wayne Gretzky to accumulate the most career goals in NHL history. Leon Draisaitl of the Edmonton Oilers lead the league with 52 goals, while Nikita Kucherov of the Tampa Bay Lightning tallied 121 points.  Connor Hellebuyck of the Jets posted a clean 2.00 goals against average to lead the league. The Montréal Canadiens lead the league in attendance, welcoming 865,305 fans over 41 games, which is an average of over 21,100 fans.  The Florida Panthers and Edmonton Oilers battled it out in a Stanley Cup rematch.  Stadium Journey made their way to Utah for a first season experience at the Delta Center, as well as nine other updated reviews.   The annual NHL rankings at Stadium Journey are based on the FANFARE metric used on the website, where a number of different writers assess the hockey experience based on the categories of Food, Atmosphere, Neighbourhood, Fans, Access, Return on Investment and any extras that the writers experienced.  The stakes are high, with an average grading of 3.95 being earned out of a possible perfect 5.0. When two or more venues are tied in our FANFARE scale, a Stadium Journey Council of Elders is consulted to break those deadlocks. This list is just an amalgamation of a number of opinions, and may not be in agreement for all.  Please let Stadium Journey know your opinions on our various Social Media outlets.  How is your list different from ours?  What do we have right?  What do we have wrong? Without further ado, Stadium Journey is proud to present the 2024-2025 Rankings of the National Hockey League Experiences. 1. Rogers Place - Edmonton Oilers - 4.57 Jim Flannery - The Edmonton Oilers went to the Stanley Cup finals in 2024, falling one goal short in the deciding game seven matchup against the Florida Panthers. This was the fifth-straight trip to the playoffs for the Oilers and the first time they reached the finals since 2006. Needless to say, expectations are high in the city once again. And those high expectations carry over to their home venue.  It would be pretty easy to rest on your laurels if you run a well-liked facility like Rogers Place. But management has chosen not to do that, instead continuing to work on improving the fan experience for anyone who comes to the arena to see the Edmonton Oilers play. 2. Amalie Arena - Tampa Bay Lightning - 4.57 Chris Green - The idea of ice hockey in Florida has always been one that drew looks of confusion among skeptics. How could an NHL franchise succeed in Florida, a state that rarely sees freezing during its coldest months, let alone become more than just a short-term fad?  While some have argued the Panthers fit the latter, the Tampa Bay Lightning have become one of the league’s must-see franchises. Consistently competing for playoff spots and winning a Stanley Cup three times (including back-to-back in 2020 and 2021) has catapulted the Tampa Bay franchise to greatness. Without a doubt, the Lightning are one of the best experiences in sports, and a visit to Amalie Arena makes it easy to see why. 3. Crypto.com Arena - Los Angeles Kings - 4.43 Andrei Ojeda - The Los Angeles Kings were a part of the National Hockey League’s “Second Six,” the league’s first expansion in 1967. Original owner, Jack Kent Cooke, chose the name “Kings” because he wanted his team to project “an air of royalty.” He outfitted the team in the royal colors of purple and gold and built a new arena, the Forum, as a home for his teams. The team played at the Forum in Inglewood for 32 years until moving to the new Staples Center, now Crypto.com Arena in Downtown Los Angeles, prior to the 1999-2000 season. The privately financed arena cost $375 million to build. 4. Climate Pledge Arena - Seattle Kraken - 4.43 Lloyd Brown - When the NHL expansion Seattle Kraken takes to the ice their uniforms are multiple shades of blue. However, their new Seattle home is decidedly “ green.” The Climate Pledge Arena stands in the footprint of the former Key Arena, with the roof being the only portion of the former arena being preserved.  The Climate Pledge portion of the new arena’s name does not represent a corporate sponsor purchasing naming rights to the facility, though Amazon did purchase the rights, choosing to make a statement rather than publicize itself. It does represent a commitment by the privately funded arena’s owners to create the first carbon net-zero certified arena in the world. Virtually every aspect of the arena’s operation will play a part in reaching this environmental goal. 5. Bridgestone Arena - Nashville Predators - 4.43 David Welch - Nashville might be the “Music City,” but the area surrounding Bridgestone Arena, at the corner of Broadway and Rep. John Lewis Way has come to be known by the fan-created moniker, Smashville.  The NHL made an, at the time, unlikely home in Nashville to start the 1998 season, but hockey in the city has a history that goes back to the 1960s. Though the hockey history in Nashville might be relatively brief compared to some of the stalwarts in the league, the Predators have done well in establishing themselves as one of the top draws in the NHL, both through the success they have seen on the ice, and in the accompanying environment they have created. 6. Centre Bell - Montréal Canadiens - 4.29 Dave Cottenie - The Montréal Canadiens are the oldest team in the National Hockey League, having been in action since 1909 and they boast twenty four Stanley Cup Championships, more than any other team in the league.  They are as synonymous with hockey as the New York Yankees are with baseball and the Boston Celtics are with basketball.  Simply put, a trip to see the Canadiens should be at the top of any hockey fan’s bucket list.  In 1996, the Canadiens left their venerable home at the Montréal Forum to the brand new Centre Bell.  Taking a little time to feel lived in and home, the Bell Centre is now as good an NHL experience as there is.  In 2009, the Canadiens were welcomed back into hockey royalty as they were sold once again to the Molson Family, who remains their owner to date.  With a hockey dynasty in tow as well as the Bell Centre, the Molsons have seen the Canadiens, once again, become one of the most valuable teams in the NHL. 7. Madison Square Garden - New York Rangers - 4.29 Greg Venuto - Madison Square Garden, or MSG as the locals often call it, has finally completed its latest transformation.  After the inside was refurbished from 2011-2013, the outside and main entrance were revived over the past 5 years. The 7th Avenue entrance is now majestic and grand and offers a little pedestrian courtyard with seating on 33rd Street. The Garden is home to the New York Rangers of the Metropolitan Division of the National Hockey League.  The Garden received a much-needed facelift from 2011-2013. The inside of the arena was upgraded to include new seats and bathrooms, wider concourses, new luxury suites closer to the ice, club seating areas with high-end food, and a Bridge Level with seats that provide a great aerial view and some bar stool seating. The West Balcony was also added which replaced the old skyboxes. 8. PPG Paints Arena - Pittsburgh Penguins - 4.29 Patricia Beninato - When the Pittsburgh Penguins began back in 1967, they played their games in the Pittsburgh Civic Arena, known as the Igloo. The team was very low on the list of Burgh sports fandom until 1984 when it drafted a kid from Montreal named Mario Lemieux. Even with lengthy breaks due to health issues, Le Magnifique racked up not only Hall of Fame numbers but captained the team to two Stanley Cup victories. However, the team was still in a lot of financial trouble in the late 1990s, to the point that serious discussions ensued about moving the team to Kansas City. Lemieux discovered that he was the Penguins’ biggest creditor, so he came up with a unique solution–create some equity, make deals with local media, and become the Pens’ majority owner in 1999. 9. Scotiabank Arena - Toronto Maple Leafs - 4.14 Dave Cottenie - Founded in 1917 as the Toronto Arenas, the Toronto Maple Leafs have as rich a history as any team in the National Hockey League.  The proud holders of eleven Stanley Cup Championships, nine after they rebranded as the Maple Leafs in 1927, fans of the Maple Leafs are filled with angst and dread as they eagerly await the next trip to the finals.  It would be the first since 1967, the final year of the “Original Six.”  Suffering through some of the worst ownership groups in sports history, see Harold Ballard, the Leafs are currently on solid ownership ground under the Maple Leaf Sports and Entertainment banner.  MLSE is a conglomerate controlled by the odd partnering of Rogers Communications, Bell Media and Larry Tannenbaum.  They also have the coveted superstar with Hart Trophy winner Auston Matthews leading the charge.  Finally, the Leafs have one of the premier venues in the NHL, which although opened in 1999, has received several renovations to keep it at the forefront and state-of-the-art. 10. Capital One Arena - Washington Capitals - 4.14 Gregory Koch - Capital One Arena opened in 1997 as the home of the Washington Capitals, replacing the aging Capital Centre in Landover. Since then, the Caps have experienced a dramatic rise in popularity and success thanks to players like Alex Ovechkin, culminating in their victory in the 2018 Stanley Cup Final. In addition to hosting hockey, Capital One Arena serves several other functions as well, including playing host to the Washington Wizards and Georgetown Hoyas men’s basketball.  Although there was a time not so long ago when this wasn’t the case, a Washington Capitals game at Capital One Arena is a memorable experience for any sports or hockey fan. Owner Ted Leonsis has done a fantastic job at growing the team and improving the arena atmosphere since buying the team in 1999, and his efforts have shown, both on and off the ice. 11. American Airlines Center - Dallas Stars - 4.14 Eric Moreno - In 1993 the NHL saw a seismic shift in the landscape, when the Minnesota North Stars packed up and moved south to Dallas. The newly rechristened Dallas Stars became the first – and, to date, the only – NHL franchise in the Lone Star State. The learning curve for hockey in Texas was admittedly steep, but the love affair was an immediate one.  The Stars rewarded their fans virtually immediately, as they captured the Stanley Cup in 1999 and made a return trip to the finals the following season. They would also make a return trip to the Stanley Cup Finals at the end of the 2019-20 season; the team has consistently been a winning organization virtually its entire existence in Big D.  In 2001 the Stars would move into their brand-new home, American Airlines Center. Located in the heart of Dallas’s vibrant downtown, the Hangar helped revitalize the Victory Park area of the city. Even with Dallas having so much going on entertainment-wise, the Stars continue to draw big numbers each and every season, due in no small part due to its fantastic home ice. Read on to learn more. 12. Nationwide Arena - Columbus Blue Jackets - 4.14 Marc Viquez - The Nationwide Arena is the home of the Columbus Blue Jackets of the National Hockey League. The $175 million multi-purpose building seats 18,500 people and debuted for the 2000-2001 season. Its construction returned the NHL to Ohio for the first time in 22 years with the creation of the expansion franchise.  The arena is of a brick design and is the centerpiece of The Arena district that was redeveloped with funding from Nationwide Reality Investors, The Columbus Dispatch Printing Company, private investors, and the city of Columbus. It includes office, retail, and living space in downtown Columbus. The district later included the home of the Columbus Clippers Huntington Park and Columbus Crew SC Lower.com Field. The building is named after the original minority owner, Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company, whose world headquarters are across the street. Nationwide purchased the naming rights to Nationwide Arena in 2011 for $28 million. The deal is the only NHL sponsorship without an expiration date. 13. TD Garden - Boston Bruins - 4.00 Paul Baker - Going to a game in an Original Six city is a sacred pilgrimage for hockey fans, and the buildings these teams once called home were true shrines of the game. While the Boston Garden, Montreal Forum, Olympia, Joe Louis Arena, Maple Leafs Garden, and Chicago Stadium have faded into history, Original Six teams continue to hold a special place in NHL lore.  The Boston Bruins are the third oldest team in the NHL and were the first team based in the United States to join the league. 67 individuals associated with the team have been enshrined in the Hockey Hall of Fame. The Bruins have won six Stanley Cups in their history, most recently in 2011. 14. Prudential Center - New Jersey Devils - 4.00 Steven Kee - The New Jersey Devils have been playing games at the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey, lovingly known as “The Rock” since 2007. It was a $375 million move from the Meadowlands Sports Complex in East Rutherford and would give the three-time Stanley Cup champions a first-class building to call home.  The Devils played at the Meadowlands for nearly 30 years. This move was to help revitalize the City of Newark. The Prudential Center was to be the cornerstone of this revitalization, which included the Newark Bears & Eagles Riverfront Stadium (since demolished) and the New Jersey Performing Arts Center. The arena has become a more viable and proven candidate to be the city’s symbol for that sign of revitalization. 15. Delta Center - Utah Mammoth - 4.00 Lloyd Brown - The 2024-2025 NHL season found a longtime NHL team now operating out of a new home. This is a result of the relocation of the former Arizona Coyotes franchise to Salt Lake City, Utah. The relocation agreement results in the Arizona Coyotes name being protected in case a future franchise comes to the Valley of the Sun.  The new management of the team decided to keep the team’s new name simple during its first year of operations in Salt Lake City. This means the team will use the Utah Hockey Club name during the 2024-2025 season. The team will conduct a name-the-team contest during this season, to involve its fans in the naming process. This means the blue and white color scheme of the uniforms and the use of the generic team’s name will be changed at the end of the season. 16. Amerant Bank Arena - Florida Panthers - 4.00 Chris Green - During recent seasons, the Florida Panthers were known in the news for being the team that had a franchise-low for attendance. In addition, they experienced the smallest season-opener crowd in franchise history. The few fans that showed up could carry on conversations in the upper deck that could clearly be heard in the lower bowl. However, an injection of young talent and a streamlined stadium experience has led to a growing crowd and an even better game day atmosphere. A new logo and a new feel make it a different experience than that of the past.  Amerant Bank Arena is located in Sunrise, Florida, more than 30 miles north of downtown Miami. The arena has been the home of the Panthers since it opened in 1998, and has a capacity 19,250 when aligned for hockey 17. Little Caesars Arena - Detroit Red Wings - 3.86 Greg Venuto - Little Caesars Arena, the Detroit Red Wings 3rd home, is a sea of red. Between the home fans’ jerseys, the red banners hanging from the rafters, and the arena with robust red lighting is almost an assault on the eyes.  But there’s no doubt whose building this is as fans file into the seating area.  The Red Wings are one of the Original Six – the group of six teams that made up the National Hockey League between 1942 and 1967.  Detroit, which plays in the Atlantic Division of the Eastern Conference, was once a major player but has not been to the playoffs since 2016. From 1997 through 2008, the Wings won four Stanley Cups including back-to-back crowns in 97 and 98.  The post-season drought has diminished the enthusiasm to an extent but the city is a hockey hotbed referred to as Hockeytown. 18. Xcel Energy Center - Minnesota Wild - 3.86 Greg Venuto - The Minnesota Wild continue to play before hockey-crazed, sellout crowds at Xcel Energy Center.  The building, while 23 years old, continues to shine as fans rock out to Shout after every Wild goal.  The team was born in 2000 following the departure of the original Minnesota North Stars who fled their home in Bloomington just outside the Twin Cities to relocate to Dallas in 1993.   Minnesota has never had the privilege of seeing a Stanley Cup champion.  The North Stars did reach the finals twice in 1991 and 81. 19. United Center - Chicago Blackhawks - 3.86 Greg Venuto - The Chicago Blackhawks, one of the NHL’s most storied franchises and winners of the Stanley Cup in 2013 and 2015 have fallen on hard times. The team, one of the league’s “Original Six”, founded in 1926 will not make the playoffs again this year for the fourth consecutive season and sixth out of the last seven. The Blackhawks made Chicago Stadium (nicknamed Madhouse on Madison) their home until January 1995 due to the NHL lockout and then moved across the street into the United Center. The facility is the largest in square footage in the United States and has a capacity of 19,717 for hockey (with room for 3,000 more fans willing to take standing-room-only tickets). There are 167 executive suites, 34 club boxes, and 5 super suites in the facility. The arena is owned jointly by the Chicago Bulls and the Chicago Blackhawks. 20. Rogers Arena - Vancouver Canucks - 3.86 Lloyd Brown - Ice hockey has a long and storied history in Vancouver, as it has hosted a professional hockey club since 1911. The Canucks came into the NHL as an expansion franchise in 1970. They play in the Pacific Division of the Western Conference in the NHL. The team has seen great success, as it has won 10 Division titles and two President’s Trophies over its existence. The Canucks have appeared in the Stanley Cup Finals on three occasions (1982, 1994, 2011) but have never won the series.  The team began its existence at the Pacific Coliseum, where they played through 1995. They then moved to their present home, which at that time was named General Motors Place. It has been known as the Rogers Arena since 2010. This marks the 50th Anniversary Season for the Canucks and their 25th season in the arena. The arena has two levels of general seating, along with a club/suite level. It has one of the largest capacities in the NHL, as it holds 18,910 fans.      21. T-Mobile Arena - Vegas Golden Knights - 3.86 Lloyd Brown - The NHL’s shiniest new franchise, the Vegas Golden Knights, also have the shiniest new ice palace to perform in for their loyal subjects. T-Mobile Arena is located at the southern end of the Vegas Strip and opened in April 2016. The arena was built even before the franchise was awarded in June of that year. Like most entertainment venues in Sin City, it will host a wide variety of events, ranging from sports, to concerts, beauty pageants and awards shows. The building has a capacity of 17,500 for ice hockey, 18,000 for basketball, and 20,000 for concerts, boxing and MMA matches and conventions.  The arena was created by two giants in the entertainment industry, MGM Resorts International and AEG, who teamed up with noted sports architectural firm Populous to design a venue that works well both as a sports facility and an entertainment venue. Many NHL traditionalists questioned the selection of Las Vegas as an expansion location, as they hoped Quebec City would receive the nod. Others felt that a top tier professional sports team would not locate in a city known for gambling (the Golden Knights are the first to do so, with the Oakland Raiders relocating in 2020). 22. Honda Center - Anaheim Ducks - 3.86 Paul Baker - While hockey may not be the first thing on your mind as you wander around southern California during a warm winter day, a trip to the Honda Center provides a mighty good experience for any fan, whether you are coming from the frigid north or not.  Now in their third decade of operation, the Ducks (they dropped the “Mighty” from their nickname when Disney sold the team in 2006) have experienced a great deal of success, capturing 14 playoff berths, six division titles, two conference titles and a Stanley Cup Championship in 2007. Seven players who have played for the Ducks have been inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame. 23. KeyBank Center - Buffalo Sabres - 3.86 Robbie Raskin - KeyBank Center has been home to the Sabres since it opened in 1996, and though it is not an outstanding arena today, it's a comfortable arena with solid amenities and a welcoming fan experience. Even if the Sabres have a way to go before they return to any kind of glory days, KeyBank Center is a great place to catch some hockey and Buffalo is one of the best places in America to do so.  At last, it seems the bottom has been reached and the Sabres are building back with some optimism. A new cadre of young players are coming of age with promise, the players in blue and gold appear happy to be there, the border is reopened, and attendance is slowly but surely ticking back up. Cautious optimism, but signs of a club back on track. 24. Enterprise Center - St. Louis Blues - 3.71 Greg Venuto - The St. Louis Blues were born in 1967 and in 2019 they reached the pinnacle of the NHL by winning their first Stanley Cup championship. From 1967 to 1994 the Blues played at St. Louis Arena before moving to The Enterprise Center formerly Scottrade, Savvis and Kiel Center. The building is owned by the City of St. Louis.  The Blues feature a local band which entertains before and during each game on a stage built during the renovations.  Blues fans are supportive and many sport jerseys.  The team is lucky to be the only professional team in the city that plays during the late fall and winter months. 25. Wells Fargo Center - Philadelphia Flyers - 3.71 Greg Venuto - The Philadelphia Flyers share the building with the NBA Philadelphia 76ers and the National Lacrosse League Philadelphia Wings. The NBA franchise said it does not intend to stay at the arena beyond the end of its 2031 lease. The multi-purpose indoor arena is located at what is now known as the South Philadelphia Sports Complex, which includes other venues like Citizens Bank Park (Philadelphia Phillies), Lincoln Financial Field (Philadelphia Eagles), and Xfinity Live! The building seats 19,173 for hockey games, making it the 4th largest in the NHL. The arena, which is owned by Comcast Spectacor, which also owns the Flyers, replaced the Flyer's former home The Spectrum which debuted with the team’s NHL entry in 1967. Fans know who the landlord is as they glance upward and on each side are illuminated letters reading “Welcome To Comcast Country”. 26. UBS Arena - New York Islanders - 3.71 Greg Venuto - UBS Arena design was inspired by iconic New York landmarks, including Central Park, Ebbets Field, Grand Central Terminal, Park Avenue Armory, and Prospect Park Boathouse.  It features two outdoor terraces open to all guests and more restrooms per person than any arena in Metro New York.  The rafters feature the Islanders four Stanley Cup banners to commemorate championships from 1979-1980 through 1982-1983.  The player banners include an impressive array of retired numbers from those championship teams.  Forwards Clark Gillies (9), Mike Bossy (22), Bobby Nystrom (23) and John Tonelli (27), centers Bryan Trottier (19) and Butch Goring (91), defenseman Denis Potvin (5), goalie Billy Smith (31) coach Al Arbour (1500 - the number of games he coached) and general manager Bill Torrey (TORREY “The Architect”) all have banners above. 27. Lenovo Center - Carolina Hurricanes - 3.57 Joseph Oakes - The Carolina Hurricanes began playing at Lenovo Center when the building opened in 1999. Prior to that, the Hurricanes played at the Greensboro Coliseum during their first two years in North Carolina. The facility has gone by four names since it opened: Entertainment and Sports Arena, the RBC Center, PNC Arena and now the Lenovo Center. The arena is located in West Raleigh and sits next door to Carter-Finley Stadium, home of the NC State football team. Lenovo Center boasts 18,680 red seats for hockey and is also the home of the NC State basketball team. Even though the venue is approaching 20 years old, it is still a modern arena for NHL hockey. 28. Ball Arena - Colorado Avalanche - 3.57 Greg Venuto - Ball Arena, formerly the Pepsi Center, has seen its basketball and hockey teams win championships over the last two years.  Most recently the Denver Nuggets won their first NBA championship over the Miami Heat in June of 2023.  In June of 2022, the Colorado Avalanche won their third Stanley Cup in six games over the Tampa Bay Lightning.  Both the Avalanche, who play in the NHL's Central Division and the Nuggets are contenders once again.  The Avalanche began their existence as the Quebec Nordiques, one of the few teams to make the move from the WHL to the NHL. After the 1995 season, the team was sold to a new ownership group and relocated to Denver, where the team was renamed the Avalanche. The newly relocated team got off to a rousing start, as it won the Stanley Cup in its first season in its new home. The Avalanche have won three Stanley Cups, three Conference Championships, and nine Division Championships. 29. Canada Life Centre - Winnipeg Jets - 3.57 Lloyd Brown - Canada Life Centre opened in 2004, with the Jets franchise returning to the city in 2011. It currently serves as the home to both the NHL Winnipeg Jets and the Manitoba Moose of the AHL. It is the smallest arena in the NHL, with a seating capacity of 15,294. Winnipeg has been given a second chance with an NHL franchise and there is no chance of the fans allowing the team to move elsewhere again. They fill the Canada Life Centre for every game, cheering loudly for the local boys while organizing chants to disrupt the visiting team’s concentration. The whole town turns out in their blue-best when the Jets are in town. Winnipeg is one of the more isolated of the NHL outposts, but it is well worth a visit as you check the rinks and arenas in the central portion of Canada. 30. Scotiabank Saddledome - Calgary Flames - 3.57 Jim Flannery - The Olympic Saddledome opened in 1983, constructed in anticipation of the 1988 Winter Olympics, and has been the home of the Calgary Flames ever since.  Over the years, the Saddledome has seen a few renovations, increased seating capacity, and a couple name changes; it is now known as the Scotiabank Saddledome.  At over 40 years of age, the Saddledome is now the third-oldest NHL arena and is looking dated.  In May, 2023, it was announced that a new arena was going to be built just north of the Saddledome. This was the third try at getting a go-ahead on constructing a replacement for the ‘Dome, but this time it seems to be sticking—shovels are in the ground to prep the new location. When all is said and done, the new Events Centre and surrounding infrastructure is expected to cost around a billion dollars. 31. Canadian Tire Centre - Ottawa Senators - 3.29 Dave Cottenie - The current iteration of the Senators are not the original professional team in Ottawa.  The original Ottawa Senators were a force in the pre-Original Six days and dominated the early 1900s, claiming eleven Stanley Cup Championships between 1903 and 1927.  The Senators are currently owned by Biovail founder Eugene Melnyk, who bought the team out of bankruptcy in 2003.  The modern Senators have experienced the full spectrum of results on the ice, going to the Stanley Cup Finals and winning the Presidents’ Trophy as well as earning a number of first overall draft picks.  32. SAP Center - San Jose Sharks - 2.86 David Hegler - Ever since the San Jose Sharks were founded in 1991 and moved into the newly-built San Jose Arena two years later, their hometown has wholeheartedly embraced them. By the time the playoffs roll around, the vast city of San Jose, California is very much a Hockey Town.  The SAP Center is perfect for the Sharks as it represents the city’s culture while providing impeccable views in all corners of the arena. Of course, the arena hosts much more than Sharks hockey. In the past, it has hosted the Golden State Warriors, the Arena Football League’s Sabercats, and the Indoor Football League’s Bay Area Panthers as well as a plethora of concerts. As a result of its history, the SAP Center is a staple in the San Jose community.

Getting an autograph from a future Major Leaguer at Whitehouse Field, Harwich, MA. Photo by Paul Baker, Stadium Journey. 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 181 Summer Collegiate ballparks across 30 leagues. Our correspondents were able to visit 24 ballparks this summer, a mix of new to us parks and revisits to previously reviewed parks. 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 David Welsh - Even though professional baseball is no longer played in Johnson City, the excitement of the game and the surrounding atmosphere have not disappeared. While the reorganization of minor league baseball may have been a bit of a step back in the developmental chain of baseball, it has not dampened the spirit of the baseball community in Johnson City, Tennessee. Johnson City may no longer be a stop on the road to the majors, but its love of baseball is as strong as ever. Joe Becker Stadium - Joplin Outlaws - MINK League Photo Courtesy of Karen Staffileno 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 an,d Joplin has plenty to offer if you find yourself bored after the game. 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 history, and we have the hill." 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 traveler.  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.

The 2024-25 NBA Season was definitely a unique one.  Tremendous regular seasons by  the Cleveland Cavaliers, Oklahoma City Thunder and New York Knicks ushered in a new sense of hope throughout a number of markets in the league and possibly a changing of the guard.  The dominant news of the season was the blockbuster trade between the Dallas Mavericks and Los Angeles Lakers centered around Luca Doncic and Anthony Davis.  After being much maligned over the deal, the Mavericks seemed to come out the other end better than expected winning the first overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft and the opportunity to draft Cooper Flagg.  The league would also see a return to Inglewood, California, the former site of the Great Western Forum, home of the Lakers.  This time it would be the Los Angeles Clippers making news with the opening of the innovative Intuit Dome.  Shai Gilgeous-Alexander of the Oklahoma City Thunder continued his ascension to stardom by leading the league in scoring with 32.7 points per game, and earning the MVP.  Domantas Sabonis of the Sacramento Kings averaged 13.9 rebounds per game to lead the league as well.  Oklahoma City had the best record in the league and made it all the way to the NBA Finals, squaring off against the Indiana Pacers, in a matchup that was one of the most surprising of all time.  The Chicago Bulls lead the league in attendance, averaging 20,079 fans per game. Stadium Journey published the first review of the Intuit Dome this season.  Six other updated reviews were published this season.  The annual NBA rankings at Stadium Journey are based on the FANFARE metric used on the website, where a number of different writers assess the basketball experience based on the categories of Food, Atmosphere, Neighbourhood, Fans, Access, Return on Investment and any extras that the writers experienced.  The stakes are high, with an average grading of 4.07 being earned out of a possible perfect 5.0. This list is just an amalgamation of a number of opinions, and may not be in agreement for all.  Please let Stadium Journey know your opinions on our various Social Media outlets.  How is your list different from ours?  What do we have right?  What do we have wrong? Without further ado, Stadium Journey is proud to present the 2025 Rankings of the National Basketball Associations Experiences. 1. Madison Square Garden - New York Knicks - 4.57 Brian O’Sullivan - While New York City boasts some of the most iconic buildings in the world, including the Empire State Building and One World Trade Center, a trip to the city would not be complete without a stop at Madison Square Garden. Nestled in the heart of the city that never sleeps and opened in 1968, Madison Square Garden hosts a plethora of events throughout the year. From the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show to countless performances by Billy Joel, the Garden seems to be holding a different event each night. In addition to the New York Knicks, the New York Rangers call the Garden their permanent home.  Although each of these events offers its own set of benefits, attending a New York Knicks game at the Garden offers an unparalleled experience. From the passionate fans to celebrities sitting courtside, there is a truly unique and unparalleled atmosphere that surrounds a Knicks game. The hefty price of admission is well worth the priceless experience once inside Madison Square Garden and is a must see for any sports fan. 2. Kia Center - Orlando Magic - 4.57 Chris Green - Take an NBA team, plant it in a beautiful vibrant growing city, and build them a beautiful facility with modern touches that never seem to go out of style, and you have yourself Kia Center, home of the Orlando Magic. Chock-full of quality concessions, comfortable seating, great restaurants and bars nearby, and friendly patrons, you would be hard-pressed to find a venue as enjoyable and inviting for a game of professional basketball. While many may think of Orlando as a city meant for tourists, it is quietly becoming a central hub for sports. 3. Scotiabank Arena - Toronto Raptors - 4.43 Dave Cottenie - The recent news that Vince Carter was elected to the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame is big for the city of Toronto and the Toronto Raptors.  The location of the very first NBA game with the Toronto Huskies and New York Knicks is finally getting a member of the Hall of Fame. Although Vince Carter played for seven other teams and was technically not drafted by the Raptors, his formative years in the NBA were wearing purple.  Carter’s arrival in Toronto coincided with the moving of the team from the gargantuan SkyDome to the sparkling new Air Canada Centre.  Many Raptor fans credit Carter for helping build basketball in Toronto as well as the rest of the country.  In 1999 the Raptors, along with the Toronto Maple Leafs, also owned by Maple Leaf Sports and Entertainment, moved to their current home, now known as Scotiabank Arena.  The building was once the Canada Post Delivery Building and the arena has been renovated several times.  Located in the heart of Toronto, Scotiabank Arena provides the Raptors with a premier venue to play in and has become one of the best experiences in the NBA. 4. Toyota Center - Houston Rockets - 4.43 Eric Moreno - In 1971, the then San Diego Rockets relocated to Houston, giving the Lone Star State its first NBA franchise. Over the ensuing decade, stars would emerge that would help bring legitimacy to Space City’s squad, including Hall of Famers Elvin Hayes and Moses Malone, who would guide the Rockets to a conference championship in 1981.  The 1984 NBA Draft would bring Houston Cougar alum Hakeem Olajuwon, and “The Dream” would team up with fellow future Hall of Famer Ralph Sampson – the duo would be known as the “Twin Towers” – to lead the Rockets to the 1986 NBA Finals. It would be under the guidance of former player Rudy Tomjanovich and Hall of Famer Clyde Drexler that Houston would break through, capturing back-to-back NBA titles in 1994 and 1995.  At the start of the 2003-04 season, the Rockets moved into their new state-of-the-art home in downtown H-Town, Toyota Center. Stars such as Tracy McGrady, Yao Ming, and James Harden have taken the court at Toyota Center, and recent seasons have seen a rise in the team’s fortunes. Through the ups and downs, Toyota Center has kept up with the times and is still a premier spot in the NBA. 5. Wells Fargo Center - Philadelphia 76ers - 4.43 Pete Dowell - Wells Fargo Center was built in 1996 and is part of the Philadelphia Sports Complex Special Services District that consists of Wells Fargo Center home of the 76ers NBA & Flyers NHL, Lincoln Financial Field home of the Eagles NFL & Temple Owls NCAA, Citizens Bank Park home of the Phillies MLB and Xfinity Live! (A mega hang-out spot for before, during, and after any game). Wells Fargo Center is the current home of the Philadelphia 76ers and houses the legacy of three past won NBA championships, nine past won Eastern Conference titles, five past won Atlantic Division titles, and the potential of future glory from trusting in a process.  The 76ers started their NBA journey known as the Syracuse Nationals in 1946 and didn’t take on the name of Philadelphia 76ers until an ownership change, a franchise move to Philadelphia, and a contest to name the team in 1964. Walter Stalberg basketball fan and contestant in naming the 76ers won the name the team contest for his submission of the Philadelphia 76ers. The name Philadelphia 76ers is a nod to the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 1776 in Philadelphia. 6. Rocket Arena - Cleveland Cavaliers - 4.43 Lloyd Brown - When the Cleveland Cavaliers opened their 2019-2020 season, they sported a new name for their home court as well as a massively renovated house. Rocket Mortgage Company took over the naming rights from Quicken Loans over the summer, and the arena completed a two-year, $185 million renovation designed to open the arena up more to the surrounding area, and to provide wider concourses and more concession offerings to its fans. The most readily apparent change is the adding a large glass enclosed atrium, which reflects the downtown skyline and brightens up the inside corridors of the facility. A large concession and social area with seats and tables has been added at the south end of the arena.  In addition, the upper concourse is now opened up to allow fans to go 360 degrees around the arena for the first time ever. Previous renovations have included the installation of new seats throughout the seating bowl, the adding of a center-hung video board nicknamed “Humongotron” due to its immense size (31 feet high and 56 feet wide on the side panels) and new graphics and signage. 7. Kaseya Center - Miami Heat - 4.43 Lloyd Brown - The HEAT is by far the most successful franchise in South Florida since the club was founded in 1988. They have won the NBA titles on three occasions (2006, 2012 and 2013), been Conference Champions five times and Division Champions 13 times . Today they are members of the Southeast Division of the Eastern Conference of the NBA. Attending a HEAT game is as much of a social occasion as attending a basketball game. While seeing the red-hot HEAT compete on the court, you are just as likely to be seeing an “A List” of celebrities sitting courtside. While the sight lines to the court are excellent, the social amenities offered at Kaseya Center are just as impressive. 8. Chase Center - Golden State Warriors - 4.29 Lloyd Brown - The Golden State Warriors have been one of the most dominant NBA teams over the last decade, as they have won six titles, including three in the last five seasons. They also hold the record for most regular season wins with 73. Coach Steve Kerr has an astounding winning percentage of .880 with the team. The 2019-2020 season has added yet another home court advantage for the team, as they moved into the Chase Center, their new home on the shores of San Francisco Bay. The 18,062-seat arena is the first 100% privately financed professional sports facility in generations. Chase Center is the Warriors fourth home in the Bay Area since relocating from Philadelphia in 1962. It replaces the Oracle Arena in Oakland, the team’s home since 1966. 9. Moda Center - Portland Trail Blazers - 4.29 Lloyd Brown - The Portland Trail Blazers are the longest running professional sports franchise in the Pacific Northwest. The name “Trailblazers” was chosen by a wide margin in a fan poll in recognition of their pioneering efforts to bring not only basketball, but other pro sports to the region. Although they have only one NBA Championship in their 50-year history, they have won numerous Northwest Divisional titles and have gone to three Western Conference Finals. Unfortunately, over the years they have faced either the Lakers or the Warriors in their prime over this period, or they likely would have more league championships. As it is, they have succeeded where two Pacific Northwest teams, the Seattle Supersonics and the Vancouver Grizzlies have failed. Portland is known as the “Rip City” a phrase coined by their original announcer for the many “swishes” shot by the smooth shooting teams of the early years.  The Moda Center has served as the home of the Trail Blazers since 1995. It was originally known as the Rose Garden, in homage to two other basketball shrines, the Boston Garden and Madison Square Garden. The name was changed in 2013, as GPS and local tourism guides found the name confused visitors who were in town to visit Portland’s world-famous International Test Gardens during the annual Rose Festival. 10. Ball Arena - Denver Nuggets - 4.29 Matt Finnigan - The NBA’s Denver Nuggets have had just one home in their 21st Century existence: downtown Denver’s Ball Arena.  Since this Millennium started, the Nuggets struggled to find a mix of players to elevate them to one of the Association’s top teams. Who can forget high first-round draft selections like 2002’s  Nikoloz Tskitishvili (5th overall) or 2015’s Emmanuel Mudiay (7th overall)?  All sarcasm and nostalgia aside, the Nuggets history at Ball Arena has not been a disaster.  Far from it.  The team enjoyed successful runs after drafting Carmelo Anthony third overall in 2003 and trading for Allen Iverson at the start of the 2006-2007 season.  Lately, the Nuggets have emerged as one of the NBA’s top teams.  They drafted a little-known Serbian center, Nikola Jokic, in the second round of the 2014 NBA Draft (41st overall).  “The Joker” became one of the great steals in draft history.  He won NBA Most Valuable Player honors in 2021 and 2022, seemingly recording triple-doubles on a nightly basis and passing like a point guard.  Jamal Murray, the Nuggets’ seventh pick in the 2016 NBA Draft out of the University of Kentucky, has given the Nuggets a second superstar.   11. Golden 1 Center - Sacramento Kings - 4.29 Lloyd Brown - The history of the Kings franchise has been one of a vagabond existence. It began as the Royals in Rochester, NY, then moved on to Cincinnati for several years. Its next home was split between Kansas City/Omaha and resulted in a name change to the Kings to avoid confusion with the baseball Royals. In 1985, it relocated to Sacramento, hoping to break the seeming jinx of being a small market franchise competing against the larger metropolitan areas. The team is now celebrating its 35th anniversary in California’s capitol city. However as late as 2010, the team was rumored to be moving to either Anaheim or Seattle due to an unsatisfactory arena arrangement and a losing record.  That changed in 2016, as the city and a new ownership group opened the Golden 1 Center as the anchor for the new Downtown Commons (DOCO) district in downtown Sacramento. The 17,608-seat venue replaced the aging Sleep Train Arena (formerly ARCO Arena). The arena features 10,000 lower level seats with 34 luxury suites and 48 loft style suites. The remaining 7,000 upper level seats are steeply pitched so that the sight lines anywhere in the arena are excellent. 12. American Airlines Center - Dallas Mavericks - 4.14 Michael Davis - American Airlines Center (AAC) is a multi-use arena located in the Victory Park area, which is just north of the historic West End in downtown Dallas. The venue is home to the Dallas Mavericks of the NBA and the Dallas Stars of the NHL. The AAC, as it is commonly referred to by local sports fans, opened its doors on July 28, 2001, with ‘An Evening with the Eagles’; the same year, the Mavericks and Stars opened their 2001 season in American Airlines Center. The seating capacity for basketball is 19,200, or up to 21,146 including standing room. The venue is a beautiful building made of brick, limestone, and granite with signature arches, but the arena’s sweeping facades and smooth arch design can easily get lost in the Victory Park buildings. The American Airlines Center is a primary venue for the Dallas area, hosting year-round sporting events and live entertainment. Besides the Mavericks and Stars, American Airlines Center has also hosted the NCAA men’s basketball tournament, Big 12 basketball tournament, NCAA women’s Final Four, and the 55th NHL All Star game. 13. Delta Center - Utah Jazz - 4.14 Lloyd Brown - Some of the best Jazz to be experienced in the Salt Lake City area is not found in an intimate nightclub, but in an 18,300-seat sports arena found only a few blocks from Temple Square. The Delta Center (formerly the Vivint Smart Home Arena) has served as the home of the Utah Jazz since 1991. The Delta Center was the arena's original name when it debuted for the team.  As you would expect, the arena has undergone frequent renovations during its more than 30 plus years of existence.  These occurred in 2002 (to prepare it for the Winter Olympic Games), 2010, and 2016. The renovations that began in 2016 have changed the arena's appearance and fan experience, at a cost of more than $125 million. 14. Frost Bank Center - San Antonio Spurs - 4.14 Eric Moreno - Founded in 1967 as the then Dallas Chaparrals in the now defunct American Basketball Association (ABA), the San Antonio Spurs have become one of the most storied franchises in the NBA. Becoming one of the best organizations in all professional sports, the Spurs set an NBA record of winning at least 50 games a season from the 1999-2000 season to the 2016-2017 season.  Along the way, the Silver and Black won five NBA Championships, buoyed in part by a slew of Hall of Famers and all-time greats such as Tim Duncan, David Robinson, Tony Parker, Manu Ginóbili, and Head Coach Gregg Popovich. The last four of the Spurs championships were captured while the club has called the (now named) Frost Bank Center its home. 15. Gainbridge Fieldhouse - Indiana Pacers - 4.14 Marc Viquez - Gainbridge Fieldhouse completed a three-phase renovation that transformed the Indiana Paces home into a modern facility with all the amenities of the 20s. Morris Bicennential Plaza is located outside the main entrances and features a full-size basketball court for fans to shoot, dribble, and play a little basketball. The court converts to an ice skating rink during the winter months. The "Sphere" is a reflective, dome-like sculpture with an interior video screen that is ideal for photos. There are several murals and sculptures in the plaza, including a bar area for grab-and-go drinks.  Gainbridge Fieldhouse, home of the Indiana Pacers, debuted November 6, 1999, as Conseco Fieldhouse. It would be known as Bankers Life Fieldhouse until September 2021. The seating capacity has increased from 17,923 to a whopping 20,000 - making it the 5th largest in the NBA. 16. TD Garden - Boston Celtics - 4.14 Paul Baker - The Boston Celtics are the most successful franchise in NBA history, having won 18 championships, 23 conference titles and 35 division championships during their time in the league. The team has qualified for the playoffs 61 times. 49 individuals associated with the team have been enshrined in the Basketball Hall of Fame.  The TD Garden is the home of both the Celtics and the NHL’s Boston Bruins. When the facility was under construction in the mid-1990s, plans stated the arena would be located “just north” of the Boston Garden. “Just north” ended up being nine inches away. The privately financed facility was built for $160 million in 1995. 17. Smoothie King Center - New Orleans Pelicans - 4.14 Matt Colville - For most people when it comes to New Orleans, they think the Crescent City is a football town. After all, this is the South, and New Orleans has a love affair with the Saints and LSU football that remains unmatched by most major cities. However, for some people New Orleans can be considered a pretty big basketball town as well, and like the long and winding Mississippi River that runs through the city, New Orleans has a long and winding history with hoops that rivals its football history. From 1979 to 2002, New Orleans would be without a professional basketball team, but the city would have plenty of great basketball moments – it was in New Orleans where Michael Jordan won his first championship, as his UNC Tar Heels won the college tournament in 1982. It was also where Indiana coach Bob Knight would win his third and final championship in 1987, and where UNC coach Dean Smith would win his second and final championship in 1993; ultimately the Crescent City has hosted seven Final Fours as of 2024.  The newest era of basketball in New Orleans began in 2002, when the Charlotte Hornets moved here and began play at Smoothie King Center, located right next door to Caesars Superdome. Re-named the Pelicans in 2013, the Pels have added another chapter to New Orleans' rich and storied sports history thanks in part to names such as Baron Davis, Jamal Mashburn, Chris Paul, Anthony Davis, and now Zion Williamson, who have all donned Hornets/Pelicans jerseys over the last 23 years. 18. Paycom Center - Oklahoma City Thunder - 4.00 Dave Cottenie - In 2005, Oklahoma City partook in what can only be described as an NBA audition. With the devastation of Hurricane Katrina displacing the New Orleans Hornets, the team found a temporary home at the Ford Center in Oklahoma City.  Two seasons of NBA basketball in the Sooner State proved to be a runaway success and the relatively small market in OKC would not be a hindrance to NBA basketball in the future.  Oklahoma businessman Clay Bennett would swoop in and purchase the Seattle SuperSonics to relocate them to Oklahoma City.  The Thunder were blessed with some serious young talent early on and made some strong playoff runs in front of some rabid crowds, making the move to Oklahoma City seem like the perfect spot for the NBA. Home for the Thunder is Paycom Center. Originally the Ford Center and later the Chesapeake Energy Center, Paycom Center was built in 2002 and is located on the edge of Bricktown in downtown Oklahoma City.  19. Fiserv Forum - Milwaukee Bucks - 4.00 Marc Viquez - The Fiserv Forum has been the home of the Milwaukee Bucks since the 2018-2019 NBA season. The $524 million multi-purpose venue has a capacity of 17,500 for basketball and connects multiple neighborhoods and districts that include The Brewery, Milwaukee Waterfront, Old World 3rd Street, and Wisconsin Center. It also borders the “The Deer District” entertainment center.  The forum has a unique design that features “a swooping roof and extensive glass to evoke Wisconsin’s natural beauty and Milwaukee’s rich heritage of industry and craftsmen.” The design was inspired by the bountiful rivers, lakes, and forests of the region. The interior offers soft, white colors and rich zinc hues along with darkly colored seating to allow the court to stand out. The design of the interior structure also has a somewhat unfinished look or resembles a barrel of some type. The curved portion looks like a finely contoured piece of wood and includes strips of window panels that produce natural lighting at each level of the building. There are more windows above the main entrance that emulate green lighting at night. 20. PHX Arena - Phoenix Suns - 4.00 Lloyd Brown - The Phoenix Suns and the PHX Arena recently celebrated their 30th Anniversary as the outpost for NBA basketball in the Southwest. The facility opened in 1992 as the America West Arena and has gone through numerous name changes over the years. It became the Footprint Center in 2022. The arena holds 17,071 in its basketball setting.  PHX Arena hosts a wide variety of events in addition to the Sun's games. It serves as the host facility for the Phoenix Mercury of the WNBA and the Arizona Rattlers of the Indoor Football League (IFL). It has also hosted boxing matches, rodeo competitions, UFC events, WWE events, and music concerts, featuring such stars as Rod Stewart, Billy Joel, and Elton John. 21. State Farm Arena - Atlanta Hawks - 3.86 Dave Cottenie - The Hawks have been part of the Atlanta sports landscape since 1968 when they moved from St. Louis.  The Hawks were founded as the Buffalo Bisons in 1946 and moved to Moline, Illinois to be the Tri-Cities Blackhawks after just 38 days.  In 1951 the team moved to Milwaukee and dropped the Black to become just the Hawks and stayed until 1955 when they moved to St. Louis.  Their only appearance in the NBA Finals saw them victorious in 1958 behind the massive scoring of Bob Pettit.  Key to the Hawks development was the purchase of the team by Ted Turner in 1977.  The Hawks were Turner’s first venture into sports and he owned them until 2004 when they were sold to Time Warner.  The Hawks had some success in the eighties with Dominique Wilkins, their best player in franchise history, but unfortunately they could not get past Michael Jordan and the Chicago Bulls.  Currently the Hawks are mired in mediocrity under the ownership group led by Tony Ressler, who purchased the team in 2015. 22. United Center - Chicago Bulls - 3.86 Marc Viquez - The Chicago Bulls moved into the United Center for the beginning of the 1994/1995 NBA season, at the time Michael Jordan was still retired and playing baseball but would rejoin the team later on that year and help usher in a string of three more NBA championships from 1996 to 1998. Twenty years later after his retirement, it is hard not to notice MJ’s accomplishments throughout the building and how magnetic that era was to the fans in Chicago.  The United Center replaced the iconic Chicago Stadium which debuted in 1929 and had been the home to the Bulls since its inaugural year in 1966. The plan to build the multipurpose arena was created by Chicago Blackhawks owner Bill Wirtz and Bulls owner Jerry Reinsdorf. The cost of construction was $175 million and would have a capacity of 23,129 for basketball. The arena was also designed with an Art Deco style much like its predecessor providing a nod to the past and progress toward the future. 23. FedExForum - Memphis Grizzlies - 3.86 Lloyd Brown - he Grizzlies NBA franchise started in 1995 as the Vancouver, BC Grizzlies. The franchise relocated to Memphis, TN, in time for the 2001-2002 NBA season. For the first three seasons in their new Southern home, the Grizzlies played at the Pyramid Arena in downtown Memphis as their new home at the Fed Ex Forum was being built.  The Grizzlies have been playoff regulars in recent years. The fans call the team's style of play incorporates the “Grit and Grind Grizzlies.” This means they use a high-pressure defense and get to an advantageous spot to take a shot. They have the talented  Ja Morant to take the Grizzlies deep into the postseason. The team is adamant about beating at home as they boast an 85 % likelihood of winning the game on their home court. The team plays in the Southwest Division of the Western Conference of the NBA. 24. Spectrum Center - Charlotte Hornets - 3.71 David Welch - The NBA would return to Charlotte in 2004 with a new identity, the Charlotte Bobcats, and a promise of a new arena. Charlotte would christen what is now Spectrum Center in 2005. Since their return, the Hornets and previously the Bobcats, have seen spikes of success, but have found sustaining it a challenge.  The Hornets now have a new ownership group in place, led by former Hornets minority owner Gabe Plotkin and former Atlanta Hawks minority owner Rick Schnell. The two have voiced their concerns about some of the shortcomings of the franchise, and how they plan to address them going forward. 25. Crypto.com Arena - Los Angeles Lakers - 3.71 Lloyd Brown - The Crypto.com Arena is the center of the LA indoor sports universe, as it serves as the home of the Los Angeles Lakers and the Los Angeles Clippers of the NBA, the LA Kings of the NHL and the Los Angeles Sparks of the WNBA. The arena opened in 1999 and has a seating capacity of 19,079 for basketball and 18,118 for hockey.  As you would expect in Hollywood and the home of TV shows, the Crypto.com Arena excels in production quality. The sound system and lighting quality in the arena far exceeds what you would find at other arenas. One of the reasons for this are the vast number of concerts held at the arena, featuring the top artists in the world, many of whom are local residents as well. They tend to be very demanding of the technical crews, and Crypto delivers. You’ll want to make sure to be in your seats prior to the National Anthem, as the Lakers have very dramatic pregame introductions. 26. Little Caesars Arena - Detroit Pistons - 3.71 Dave Cottenie - The public address announcer for the Detroit Pistons of the NBA takes great pleasure when the Pistons get possession of the ball after it goes out of bounds.  The sweet sounds of John Mason’s “Dee-troit Bas-ketIball” is as iconic in the Motor City as the Bad Boys themselves. However, since the seventies the Pistons were the victim of a bitter ownership feud between Pistons owner Bill Davidson and Detroit Red Wings owner Mike Illitch. When the Red Wings moved out of Olympia Arena, the Pistons protested what they viewed as poor conditions at Cobo Arena and moved out of Detroit proper to Pontiac to play in the ridiculously massive Pontiac Silverdome. In 1988 the Pistons would leave Pontiac for a more appropriate venue in Auburn Hills at The Palace of Auburn Hills. The Palace was a terrific venue for the Pistons and they would see their greatest franchise moments there including their three NBA Championships and over 300 consecutive sellouts.  With the Pistons changing ownership to Tom Gores after the death of Bill Davidson, and the Red Wings building a new arena, the opportunity presented itself to move back downtown after four decades away. Mike Illitch was always a proponent of bringing businesses back downtown and he always put his money where his mouth was. Little Caesars Arena is the new home for both the Red Wings and the Pistons and is just on the other side of the Fisher Freeway from close neighbors Ford Field, Comerica Park and the Fox Theater.  John Mason has joined the Pistons and his iconic call can still be heard throughout basketball games. It may be a bit of an unfamiliar locale, but it is still Detroit Basketball. 27. Barclays Center - Brooklyn Nets - 3.71 Sean MacDonald - The 17,732-seat Barclays Center christening took place November 1, 2012, with the Nets hosting the Knicks in what was billed as the first game of a new crosstown rivalry. It marked the first time since the Brooklyn Dodgers left for Los Angeles after the 1957 season that the borough was home to a major professional sports team. It also returned the Nets franchise back to New York for the first time since the franchise left for New Jersey after the 1976-77 season. Given its incredibly accessible location on Atlantic Avenue in Brooklyn on top of nine subway lines and the Long Island Railroad, Barclays Center should be a good rival to Madison Square Garden as a premier New York entertainment venue. In the end, however, it doesn’t quite measure up. 28. Intuit Dome - Los Angeles Clippers - 3.57 Andrei Ojeda - When it comes to hosting some of the big names of professional sports, the City of Inglewood, minutes from LAX, is no stranger. From 1967-1999 The Forum was the home to the Los Angeles Lakers as well as the Los Angeles Kings. During that span much of The Forum’s glorious history would be provided by the 80’s Showtime Era Lakers, winning 5 of their 6 Forum era championships from 1980-1988 while attracting countless Hollywood celebrities, most notably Jack Nicholson and Dyan Cannon.   As both the Lakers and Kings would move to DTLA at the Staples Center (now Crypto.com Arena), the Clippers, who would play their home games at the nearby L.A. Sports Arena from 1984 -1999 after moving from San Diego, would join these two powerhouses.   During their time at Crypto, the Clippers were often regarded as the third tenant, resulting in several occasions with unfavorable afternoon tipoff times. As the team was turning a corner, the Clippers would not be void of controversy due in large part to former owner Donald Sterling.  Even with the Clippers recent run of success, try as they may, even going as far as to cover the Lakers championship banners with banners adorning current players, Crypto.com Arena would always be associated with the Lakers. In comes present day owner Steve Ballmer. Ballmer would be the billion dollar mastermind that would eventually give the Clippers a home they could truly call their own. 29. Target Center - Minnesota Timberwolves - 3.57 Lloyd Brown - The Target Center has served as the home court for the Minnesota Timberwolves since it opened in 1990. It is in the Warehouse or Northloop District of downtown Minneapolis. The arena holds 18,500 in its basketball configuration. One of its most unique features is its “green” roof, which is covered in native Minnesota prairie plants, and captures water and melting snow that would otherwise wind up in the nearby Mississippi River.  The Target Center has undergone frequent renovations in recent years, with a major two-year upgrade in 2016-2017. This renovation included a new HD video board and a completely new glass atrium lobby that really opened the facility to the street. The arena is also unique in that it has two entry levels, with one at street level and a second that attaches to the Minneapolis Skyway System. The renovations also brought a great deal of light into both the lobby area and the concourses, brightening up what was a very enclosed structure.  Numerous picture windows are now in place to provide stunning views of the Minneapolis skyline. 30. Capital One Arena - Washington Wizards - 3.14 Gregory Koch - Capital One Arena opened in 1997 as the home of the Washington Wizards, replacing the aging Capital Centre in Landover, Maryland. However, the Wizards have thus far been unable to match the rise in popularity experienced by their co-tenant, the Washington Capitals. In addition to hosting these two teams, Capital One Arena plays host to Georgetown Hoyas men’s basketball.

Photos by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.57 Impact Field 9850 Balmoral Ave Rosemont, IL 60018 Chicago Dogs website Impact Stadium website Year Opened: 2018 Capacity: 6,300 Chicago Baseball with All the Mustard The Chicago Dogs are members of the American Association and play at Impact Field, one of the slickest ballparks in independent baseball. It was constructed to entertain all who purchased a ticket as well as host a baseball game. The spacious ballpark has seating for 6,300 and opened on May 25, 2018. The $60-million-dollar facility is the newest addition to the list of independent ballparks in the Chicago area and stands out in color, design, and creativity. Fans will most likely not have to be reminded where they are with motorists on I-294 whizzing by in the distance, the giant Impact Field sign across the parking deck in right field, and a view of the fashion outlet stores behind the outfield walls. However, let’s find out what makes the ballpark one of the better-looking designs in recent years. Food & Beverage 3 The price of concessions is also on par with other independent clubs in the metro area. The menu items are not super electric, but they are what one would expect while enjoying nine innings of baseball. The main concession stand offers jumbo hot dogs, Chicago hot dogs, cheeseburgers, chicken tender baskets, nachos, and soft pretzels. The prices range from $5 to $9. These nachos could feed 1-3 people per order. Photo by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey. The stadium features The Weiner’s Circle, a much tamer version than the one downtown. It sells its style of char dogs, brats, Polish sausages, and french fries. There is also Salsa, which offers Mexican options, including street tacos and nachos topped with carnitas and chicken. The nachos are large enough for two small kids and are well worth the $10 price. Coca-Cola products are available, and beer options include Miller-Coors brands. A cocktail cart behind the home plate offers mixed drinks of gin, tequila, whiskey, and vodka. Atmosphere 3 Impact Field has a design that is unlike many others in baseball. It features four separate buildings that make up the upper-level suites, party decks, and press box. The colors of metallic black, red, and steel gray offer an amazing combination not found at most baseball stadiums. However, the colors make it stand out from older facilities in the area. Fans enter through the right-field corner of the stadium, which also houses the main ticket booth and official team shop. The team store has plenty of merchandise, from jerseys, caps, t-shirts, and stuffed dolls of the club’s mascots-Squeeze and Ketchup. Squeeze is a bottle of mustard with a big nose and fur; his nemesis, Ketchup, is a bottle of ketchup with an evil smirk in a trench coat. What is shocking is the number of young fans who gather around them waiting for an autograph after they are introduced in the second inning. Squeeze gets the most attention, because mustard, not ketchup, belongs on a hot dog for anyone after the age of 10 years old. Squeeze is a fan favorite at games. Photo by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey. There are many wonderful aspects of a Dogs game, including a double-sided video board that can be seen by up to 70 million motorists on I-294 on an annual basis. The left-field foul pole is 312 feet from home plate, a nod to the Chicago area code. The right field foul pole is 294 feet from home plate, a nod to the nearby interstate number. The giant car deck serves as a spot for left-handed hitters to bounce homeruns off of it. The ballpark’s name is emblazoned across this area, but there is not too much happening below this area in the right field to the center field concourse. The ballpark also offers high-top tables and chairs in many areas of the concourse, bleacher seating behind the right-field wall, and rail seating above the left-field wall. However, the ample space of Impact Field feels a little bit underutilized at times. Many areas of the ballpark are void of kiosks, party decks, or grass lawn seating. Neighborhood 3 Impact Field is directly across the interstate from the Fashion Outlets of Chicago and a host of other entertainment options before or after the ballgame. The shopping mall features 130 designer outlets that are walkable from the ballpark, but one can also drive and park in the mall’s multi-level parking deck. The area also houses Hofbrauhaus Chicago for liters of beer and German food, Park Tavern, which offers pub food including Cuban sandwiches and hand-cut fries, and Bub City for barbecue. Dave & Buster's is also nearby for video games, large-screen televisions, and pub food options. The Rosemont entertainment district offers a variety of options that include concerts, Zanies Comedy Club, iFLY (skydiving simulator), and the Big Ten interactive experience. Rivers Casino is a few miles north of the district for additional entertainment options. A few local spots south of the ballpark and perhaps a little cheaper on your pockets are Short Fuse Brewing Company, Frannie’s Beef, and Gene and Jude’s. The latter establishment is a local institution that serves depression dogs, loaded with hand-cut fries. You will have to stand up to eat them or enjoy them in your car. Fans 3 The fans at a Dogs game are typical of what you would see at many other ballparks of this kind. They are out to enjoy a night out with friends, family, and co-workers for an inexpensive night out. However, I bumped into one fan who has season tickets with her husband and dresses like a hot dog. She was more than happy to explain her allegiance to the ball club and how she rarely misses a game. Access 5 Impact Field is accessible by both automobile and mass transit. It is located minutes away from O’Hare International Airport. Public transportation includes the CTA Blue Line, and Metra commuter train stops at the Rosemont station. A free trolley is provided by the Rosemont Entertainment Circulator Trolley that can take you to the ballpark. If traveling by car, the stadium is visible off of I-294, and its exit is just south of the venue. A parking garage is behind the right field and charges $4 a car, but is free if driving a Hyundai. There is additional parking that I have been told is free of charge across the street, but that hasn’t been confirmed. Once inside, the wrap-around concourse provides easy access to all points of the ballpark, and the large outfield terrace area is void of the usual kiosks, seating, and party decks found at other stadiums. Games do not attract near-capacity crowds for most games, and fans can get around efficiently. The main entrance is at the right-field corner of the ballpark. Return on Investment 4 The cost of a ticket will be anywhere from $10 to $17 per game. The bleacher section seating in the right field is an ideal way to enjoy the game for $10. The outfield reserve seats down each baseline are $13, and the infield box seats behind home plate are $17. These prices are on par with a few other independent clubs in Chicagoland. Parking in the garage adjacent to Impact Field is $3 per vehicle (limited availability). Additional parking is available in the Rosemont Entertainment District for a higher fee. The Dogs offer several weekly promotions that include Weiner Wednesday, where hot dogs are a dollar and draft beers are $2.50, Thirsty Thursdays featuring 12-ounce cans are $2, Happy Hour Fridays with live music, and Family Sundays, which offer bottomless popcorn and fountain drinks for $3. Saturday nights are theme nights and conclude with fireworks. Extras 4 The Dogs earn a point for the stadium design that is not from your typical blueprint. It’s sleek, a bit futuristic, and possibly the class of the American Association. The second point is for the two mascots that are almost as popular as the players on the field. Squeeze and Ketchup barely have time to roam around the concourse due to young fans asking for an autograph. The Dog Squad is are group of staff members in red shirts that entertain the fans in between innings, assist fans with on-field promotions, and allow fans to blow a giant air horn from a lifeguard chair behind the backstop on the main concourse. The final point is the $3 parking lot that borders the outfield wall. Final Thoughts Impact Field is a fantastic-looking stadium and pushes the boundary for stadium design and aesthetics. The Chicagoland is a crowd with both major league and MLB partner league ballparks, and the Dogs provide a lot of fun and excitement with their branding, ticket pricing, and promotional nights. It has the potential to be one of the best in the MLB Partner Leagues. ——— Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter @ballparkhunter and his YouTube channel . Email at Marc.Viquez@stadiumjourney.com

All my life, I believed in a sports legend that never existed. What I thought was the name of a vintage minor league baseball team—The Asbury Park Sea Urchins—was actually a clever ruse crafted by early 20th-century sports editors. The Sea Urchins weren’t real; the true team name was the Asbury Park Sea Gulls. ​I know it seems silly, but in New Jersey, we take pride in our quirky traditions and local teams. Honoring old baseball teams like the Sea Urchins feels like part of our identity. ​The Sea Urchins spent one season in the 1914 Atlantic League, their name fitting perfectly with today’s trend of creative minor league branding. A team named after a Jersey Shore creature could easily sell merchandise. ​However, the history books and online media databases have all been a lie. The real team name was the Sea Gulls, and they won through a name-the-team contest through the Asbury Park Press. The manager of the ball club, Andy Coakley, created the contest and awarded the winner with two season passes to games at the home ballpark. ​The winner was a gentleman named Mr. William Lyon on June 25, 1914, and was deemed the “best of the bunch”. The other names tossed away in favor of Sea Gulls were Breakers, Serpents, Sand Fleas, Shore Landers, Divers, Travelers, and Beach Babies. (Baseball fans have always been at the cutting edge of naming their baseball clubs with interesting names.) ​Coakley’s team had been playing games in town since May 20, after relocating at the last minute from Bloomfield, NJ, and wouldn’t play their first game at home until July 2. However,  even before the contest-winning announcement, the ball club was referred to as the Sea Urchins. On July 6, a reader sent a letter to the sports editor of the Asbury Park paper. The response was the following. ​“Sea Urchins” is just a name applied by an out-of-town correspondent. Andy Coakley is going to give two season passes to the fan who sends in a nickname, to be judged by three of Asbury Park’s leading citizens.” ​This was in an area where baseball teams went through nicknames like a sick person through Kleenex. Depending on the year, the newspaper, or manager, a ball club could have various names, sometimes multiple ones in the same year.  Apparently, the Sea Urchins name was created by a crafty writer chomping on a cigar, wearing a pillbox hat, and stamping down on his typewriter in the press box.  The Sea Urchins name would be used in newspapers in Brooklyn, Perth Amboy, and Poughkeepsie. The Sea Gulls name was used in the Asbury Park and Long Branch newspapers. However, when baseball returned in the spring of 1915, neither the Sea Gulls nor the Sea Urchins returned; in fact, neither did the Atlantic League - it ceased operations. Whatever the team was called, it was soon forgotten. Asbury Park High School and its football stadium were built on the site of the old athletic grounds, and minor league baseball never returned to the city. Soon, anyone who attended a game that year, which reports said were quite good on weekdays, would be no more. ​Today, there’s a market for these old teams, and one such outlet is Moonshot, a website with an entire section devoted to vintage baseball t-shirts—some authentic, others up for debate. Among them are the Sea Urchins, featuring a sharp faux-back design that mimics the style of classic throwback emblems. ​The list includes the Shenandoah Hungarian Rioters, Sheboygan Chairmakers, Santa Cruz San Crabs, Paris Bourbonites, Hannibal Cannibals, Marquette Undertakers, Cairo Egyptians, and the Muncie Fruit Jars. Many of these team names did exist, but some have been questionable. ​Maybe this was for the best, the Sea Urchins name has a better ring to it than Sea Gulls, which has been used to name other sports teams. The Sea Urchins, to the best of my ability, have never been used and stand out well eleven decades later. What history tells us of this era of baseball is that not one nickname was alike and could change depending on the local newspapers. Perhaps the Asbury Park Ball Club went by a different name in other cities around the loop, but the name was used several weeks before the official name, Sea Gulls, was ever introduced. Who was the person who first coined the phrase? He has been lost to history. The Sea Urchins name has stood the test of time. Sorry, Mr. William Lyon. ------ Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter @ballparkhunter   and his YouTube channel .   Email at Marc.Viquez@stadiumjourney.com

Photos by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.71 Crushers Stadium 2009 Baseball Blvd Avon, OH 44011 Lake Erie Crushers website Crushers Stadium website Year Opened: 2009 Capacity: 5,000 Crushing It at the Ballpark When people think of baseball in the Cleveland area, their minds drift towards the Cleveland Guardians, but just a 30-minute drive away downtown is another baseball stadium. Nestled in the suburban town of Avon, the Lake Erie Crushers have quietly built a reputation of their own, emerging as a beloved gem in the local sports scene. Since their founding in 2009, the Crushers have steadily won over the hearts of residents throughout Lorain County and beyond. What began as a modest independent league team has blossomed into a community staple, drawing crowds with a genuine love of the game, an engaging atmosphere, and a strong connection to local fans. At the heart of the Crushers’ appeal is their commitment to accessibility and affordability. While big-league games can quickly become a costly affair for families, a night at Crushers Stadium offers an affordable and stress-free alternative. Ticket prices are modest, parking is convenient, and concessions are budget-friendly—all without sacrificing the quality of the fan experience.  The stadium’s cozy size ensures that every seat feels close to the action, and interactive features like on-field games, theme nights, and meet-and-greets with players help make each visit feel special, particularly for young fans. Food & Beverage 4 The Crushers offer down-to-the-basics food options at the multiple concession stands and kiosks, along with hard liquor varieties at the Third Base Bar. Sahlen’s hot dogs are prominently featured, along with brats, nachos, chicken sandwiches, steak burgers, pulled pork sandwiches, chicken tenders, french fries, and walking tacos. A couple of interesting items are the loaded nachos with pulled pork and giant pretzels that can be shared with a couple of people. Plain and pepperoni slices are also sold at the ball game. A Chick-fil-A tent offers sandwiches, nuggets, and chicken wraps. For the sweet tooth, the stadium sells funnel cake fries, shaved ice, ice cream, soft-serve ice cream, and mini donuts. Pepsi products are the drink of choice at the Crushers game, with multiple varieties sold. The alcoholic beverages are offered by draft and in 16-ounce cans. Budweiser, Bud Light, Yuengling, Sam Adams, Busch Light, and Labatt Blue and Light are a few of the beer varieties. A few local craft beers include Great Lakes Dortmunder Lager, Mexican Lager, and Midwest IPA. For the non-beer drinkers,21 Brix Wines,  Loncaro Long Drinks, and Carbless Vodka Cocktails include three varieties in cans. The 3rd Base Bar offers mixed drinks: old-fashioned, espresso martinis, the Crusher Margarita, and Crush on the Beach. Atmosphere 4 Stadium Journey took in a Saturday night game at Crushers Stadium, which was Monster Hockey Night, the local American Hockey League team. The Crushers wore specialty jerseys, invited the hockey team’s mascot, Sully, to entertain fans, and featured a giant Monsters inflatable to introduce players. The weather was somewhat cloudy, but otherwise ideal for an evening of baseball. The design of the Crushers stadium is simple and similar to others of its kind this century. A sunken-style seating bowl with a concourse that opens up from foul pole to foul pole. At the corner of the right field foul line is the children’s play zone that offers inflatable rides for the children for $5 extra. The left field line is a giant grass berm seating area that may be fun for children to roll up and down on during the game. There are various table seating with tents on the main concourse that sit up to four people. Many of them were filled tonight, and the multi-color tents. Luxury boxes and suites are situated on the upper deck of the facility, and a third base bar offers a large area for fans to enjoy a few hard liquor cocktails during the game. The space also includes table tops and seating for fans. The Grape Race entertains fans in between innings, Photo by Marc Viquez, Stadium Journey The organization has leaned heavily into its community-first identity, hosting local school nights, charitable events, and youth baseball camps that further cement its place in the hearts of area families. The team’s mascot, Stomper—a lovable purple creature with a mischievous grin—has become a recognizable figure across schools, parades, and birthday parties throughout the region. Overall, a festive mood at the ball game with kids running around, fans grabbing a bite to eat, and plenty of mingling with neighbors and friends. The Crushers team shop has a small collection of merchandise, a stadium MC adds to the revelry of the crowd, and there are plenty of in-between promotions on the field that include a three-person race with runners dressed up in grape outfits. Neighborhood 3 The neighborhood around Crushers Stadium in Avon, Ohio, is a suburban, family-friendly area with a mix of residential, commercial, and light industrial developments.  Just a short drive from the stadium is Chester Road and Detroit Road, where you'll find Target, Lowe’s, Walmart, Home Depot, and several strip malls. The area has a range of dining options, including fast food (Chick-fil-A, Culver’s), chain restaurants (Applebee’s, Olive Garden), and some local spots: Winking Lizard, a chain pub with classic American grub, hundreds of beer choices, and Mitchell’s Homemade Ice Cream.    Downtown Cleveland is a 30-minute drive on I-90 by car and offers more choices of sporting events that include a Cleveland Guardians game at   Progressive Field , a   Cleveland Monsters  or   Cleveland Cavaliers  game at Rocket Arena. Fans 4 The local community supports the Lake Erie Crushers. The stands are filled with kids and families, making it an ideal destination for a fun, family-friendly outing. From diehard baseball enthusiasts to casual fans just looking for a good time with friends or relatives, the Crushers are drawing a diverse and growing crowd. Access 4 The stadium is visible off I-90, and easy to drive from Cleveland (about 25–30 minutes east). Ample parking is available, and traffic is manageable even on game days. There are two areas of parking available at the stadium, including lots with accessible handicap spaces. Inside the ballpark, the wide-open concourse offers easy access to all points of interest, including the third base bar down, lawn seating in left field, and the children’s play area in right field. The official team store is located near the entrance steps of the stadium. Return on Investment 4 The cost of a ticket starts at $11, with seating behind the backstop $17 and $19. However, there are other, more affordable options when attending a Crushers game during the week. $2 for Tuesdays, tickets start at the low price of $2 per person. It also includes $2 for hot dogs, nachos, popcorn, and 12-oz sodas. Giving Wednesday allows fans to bring two non-perishable items for free admission. Thirsty Thursdays feature drink specials at the stadium. Team gift shop has plenty of merchandise, Photo by Chris Green, Stadium Journey The Crushers charge $6 for general admission parking and $10 for VIP parking, while concession items such as a hot dog are $5, and a 24-ounce can of beer is $7. A majority of the menu items are fairly priced for a Frontier League stadium. Extras 3 Crushers Stadium earns additional points for the Third Base Bar offering hard liquor and mixed cocktails, affordable weekday games on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, and affordable concession prices from hot dogs to beer. It is one of those honest, simple suburban neighborhood ballparks. Final Thoughts The Lake Erie Crushers are a refreshing reminder of community, tradition, and a love of the game. Whether you’re a die-hard baseball enthusiast or simply looking for a fun summer evening with the family, a trip to see the Crushers play offers an experience that’s both memorable and meaningful—and all just 30 minutes west of Cleveland ------- Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter @ballparkhunter   and his YouTube channel .   Email at Marc.Viquez@stadiumjourney.com

“A baseball team of which we are proud and which we will continue to boost,” said city chairman John Pfeiffer on the creation of the Pacers in 1914. ​ The Perth Amboy Pacers have not played a game in well over a century, but for one brief year, they were members of the Atlantic League, a professional loop that operated for one season with teams in New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut. ​No photos of the team, their uniforms, or the ballpark have ever been found. Within a generation, local fans had already forgotten the Pacers. Like many other clubs, they faded from memory, leaving almost no trace. Local businessmen Max Gibian and William Pfau operated the ball club; they opened the first public car garage in the city in 1905, and Pfau moved from Newark for the venture. They formed the Greater Amboy Amusement Company, which operated the ballpark and entered a team into the Atlantic League. ​ The name Pacers was associated with the city’s Board of Trade prize contest the previous year. A competition was held to adopt a new slogan for Perth Amboy, one that would rival nearby Trenton’s 1910 contest-winning slogan “Trenton Makes, the World Takes”, and Newark’s long-forgotten nickname “Newark Knows How”. ​ The city adopted the slogan 'The Pacemaking City' in November 1913. Perth Amboy was one of the fastest-growing cities in the state at the time, rising 81.5 percent since 1900. The board created and distributed 25,000 buttons with the “snappy phrase” on them. When it came time to name the baseball team, the Perth Amboy Evening News was ecstatic in its April 17 edition. ​ “Here in Perth Amboy, it looks as though we will stick to the name of pacers. This city is known all over as the “Pacemaking City”, and the baseball club is known as the Pacers. The city will be advertised better than if the team were known as the Braves." Unlike Trenton’s famous moniker that adorns the Lower Trenton Bridge, Perth Amboy’s slogan would largely be forgotten by 1923. ​The front page of the Perth Amboy Evening News on November 8, 1913. A newspaper article describes the home white uniforms as having blue trimming, blue caps, blue stockings without stripes, and a blue P.A. monogram on the left side of the shirt. The Pacers also wore heavy Mackinaw jackets made of wool. Sadly, no illustrations of the uniform or jacket have been found. ​ The ball club played at Amusement Park grounds, situated on 21 acres of land. It opened in 1904 and was 300 feet from the city limits in Keasbey in Woodbridge Township and bordered Smith Street and the Lehigh Valley train track. It sat on a hill that gave spectacular bird's-eye views of miles of beautiful country. The Raritan River was to the south, and the city skyline was to the east. ​ Gibian and Pfau signed a three-year lease and spent $5,000 refurbishing the fixture to make it one of the best in the league. The grandstand and field were renovated in time for the arrival of the Pacers. A modern 2,000-capacity grandstand colored in crimson and white with a covered backing was constructed, six high rows of bleacher seating were added down each baseline, and an entrance on the left field line. ​ Cinder paths were located behind the grandstand and at the back of the third baseline, which also included an automobile park outside of the stadium and a refreshment stand near the entrance to the grandstand. The diamond was arranged so that it would lie on a stretch of ground higher than the outfield, which would slope off the same as the outfield at the Polo Grounds. ​ The Perth Amboy Evening   News  said the following in their May 1, 1914, edition: “The fans in this vicinity have been clamoring for real, dyed-in-the-wool baseball for many years, and local rooters are enthusiastic about the prospect of the realization of their wishes.” ​Max Gibian (left) and Billy Pfau (right) help run the Pacers. Local businesses throughout the city supported the new venture. The White Shoe Company offered a new pair of shoes for every home run. While another businessman offered $50 for the best hitter on the team, later won by Vic Shankey. It is unknown what the dimensions of the ballpark were, but due to the dead-ball area and several stories, few (if any) balls left the stadium in fair territory. ​Connie Mack announced he would bring his World Series champions, the Philadelphia Athletics, to town on May 10. A crowd of 2,000 packed the new grandstand to see the home team lose to the Athletics 4-3. The season opened on May 23, preceded by a brass band and automobile parade. A crowd of 1,500 fans watched the Pacers lose 7-6 to the Danbury Hatters. The Perth Amboy Evening News  printed the following in the April 16, 1914 edition. ​ “Every baseball fan in the city of Perth Amboy in Middlesex County, whether they follow the Pacers of the Atlantic League… or any other sports team, should learn to bear the old sports' motto in mind. No harm will ever come to anyone who boosts, while the knockers create soreheads, bad friends, and make the joys of living worthless.” ​ However, by late July, rumors were circulating that the Pacers had dropped out of the league and forfeited their $1,000 bond. Both Gibian and Pfau denied the story, blaming it on other teams in the league. Pfau indicated that the team was hurt by slanderous stories and fights with reporters. Things were settled, and the club finished the season with a 44-49 record, 19.5 games out of first place. ​At the end of the season, every team in the league lost money. The Pacers lost about $3,000, and Gibian's financial support alone kept them from folding mid-season.  The Atlantic League would cease operations after one season, but it was not the end for the Pacers. ​The club returned with an independent schedule hosting games on Saturday and Sunday, including an impressive list of opponents: New York Giants, New York Yankees, and the Negro League Baltimore Giants and Royal Colored Giants. The Pacers lost to the Giants 7-6 and fell to the Yankees 15-10, which featured a “bounce” home run (a ball that bounced over the fence from fair territory was counted as a home run before 1929). In April 1916, Gibian sold out his interest in the Greater Perth Amboy Amusement Company, and Pfau became the sole owner of the baseball team. There was interest in joining a proposed Atlantic League, but they opted out due to the distance of the clubs in Pennsylvania and the doubt that the loop would be affiliated with major league clubs. ​ The team would remain independent, playing a schedule against local teams. However, the Pacers name was discontinued, and the ball club would be referred to in print as the Amboys. A crowd of 800 people witnessed opening day at the Amusement Park, a 5-3 victory over the Passaic team ​ That summer, attendance dropped as low as 200 fans per game, while Pfau needed 400 to break even. He was left to handle everything himself, from paying players and coaches to hiring painters and scheduling games. The expenses were ply too much for one person. Pfau hoped that 10 to 15 local businessmen might each invest $100 to help cover the costs. After losing money every season, he needed both financial support and help promoting the team. Pfau was set to have two teams for the 1917 season in the Middlesex County League, with 20 home games and a goal of selling 1,400 season tickets at $0.10 each. That proved almost impossible when the Amusement Park property was sold, demolished, and set for redevelopment. However, one club did play and carried on the Amboys name. ​ Plans were to remove the grandstand and outfield fence and relocate it to another property in town, most notably Wonderland Park. However, it does not appear that it happened. There was a little sadness about its demise, according to the Perth Amboy Evening News: “The passing of Amusement Park marks the disappearance of a fixture in Perth Amboy sport. For years and years, a ball field of one description or another has stood on the hilltop, the first stands and fences having been gradually dismantled by firewood seekers and the latter standing in good condition, but useless.” ​ Without a place to play, the Pacers folded, and minor league baseball disappeared from Perth Amboy. Both their legacy and the location of their old ballpark were soon forgotten. It would be decades before the Pacers were mentioned again in local newspapers, a faint reminder of their short time in the spotlight. ​ Pete Urban, a former sportswriter for the Evening News, and probably the last known person who attended a Pacers game. He was quoted in a Home   News  & Tribune  article in 1997 on his first baseball game at the Amusement Park grounds at age 7. He attended the game as a member of the knothole gang when the Pacers played the Giants. He viewed the game through a peephole in the left-field fence. ​ Pfau and Gibian worked hard to bring professional baseball to Perth Amboy in the early 1900s, but in the end, it was more than either of them could manage. They hoped to leave a lasting baseball legacy, but what they got was a brief moment in the city's history. Their story is similar to those in many other towns across the country. No matter the decade, running a baseball club is never easy. ​ There is still one small link to the past—a piece of history you can hold. One of the 25,000 Pacemaking City buttons turned up for sale on eBay. The seller didn’t know its exact age, only that it was 'very old.' It’s a tiny piece of Perth Amboy’s history that has survived all these years. ------ Follow all of Marc’s stadium journeys on Twitter @ballparkhunter   and his YouTube channel .   Email at Marc.Viquez@stadiumjourney.com

Photos by Michael Davis, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.57 J.L. Johnson Stadium 81st St & Lewis Ave Tulsa, OK 74171 Oral Roberts Golden Eagles website J.L. Johnson Stadium website Year Opened: 1978 Capacity: 2,418 J.L. Johnson Stadium J.L. Johnson Stadium is the home of the Oral Roberts University Golden Eagles baseball program in Tulsa, Oklahoma. The ORU Golden Eagles are an NCAA Division 1 program and a member of the Summit League Conference. J.L. Johnson Stadium was opened on March 6, 1978, as Oral Roberts defeated Southeastern Oklahoma 7-6. The ballpark has an AstroTurf infield with a natural grass outfield and a seating capacity of 2,418 spectators. The ballpark dimensions are 330ft down both lines, with 375ft power alleys and 400ft to centerfield. The ballpark has made improvements over the years such as in 2008 when a 20,000 square-foot facility was added, including offices for coaches and workout facilities for players; the following year, the outfield wall was replaced with the current wall. In addition, J.L. Johnson Stadium features the Grand Slam room, which is an air-conditioned room on the right field foul line where members can watch the game. The park has hosted three NCAA Regionals and 18 conference tournaments, including the last 3 Summit League Tournaments. Food & Beverage 2 J.L. Johnson Stadium has one concessions outlet for the entire park, but it is enough for small crowds. However, any large crowds will make this one stand keep fans spending more time at the concessions than in their seats. However, being the only concessions option inside J.L Johnson Stadium, the variety of the food is non-existent – this will help process fans through the line faster, as the only options are beverages, popcorn, hot dogs, pretzels, and nachos. The prices aren’t outrageous, though, as hot dogs and nachos are $4, pretzels cost $3.50, popcorn is $3, and the candy is $2.All Pepsi product beverages cost $3, while bottled water and Gatorade are $3.50.There are no alcohol sales inside J.L Johnson Stadium. Atmosphere 2 The atmosphere can be tricky when it comes to evaluating these small enrollment schools. There isn’t a must-see atmosphere at ORU games; the crowds just aren’t large enough to create that type of excitement. And while the fans that are in attendance here are very good, they can only be labeled as family, friends, or alumni. These fans are baseball fans that create a good atmosphere, but by the good atmosphere, I mean a basic baseball atmosphere of cheers when appropriate, and boos when necessary. The in-game entertainment is as simple as any baseball game played across the country. There are music and games played between innings, the famous 7th inning stretch, and Sweet Caroline being played on the PA system in the 8th inning. The scoreboard and field are perfect, but the rest of the ballpark is just basic. The ballpark could use a little upgrading, but then again, the problem being the lack of fans doesn’t help. The overall experience is a basic baseball atmosphere on a beautiful campus, creating a relaxing way to spend the day. Neighborhood 3 Oral Roberts is a private Evangelical liberal arts university that has an enrollment of just under 4,000 students. The campus is in a neighborhood 6 miles south of downtown Tulsa. The immediate area surrounding ORU’s campus has various restaurants, such as Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse, Johnny Rocket’s, Thai Village, and Tres Amigos Mexican Grill and Cantina being the closest places (on the south side of campus). First Watch-Tulsa is also an interesting brunch place off South Lewis Avenue, and if you travel on the north side along 71st Street there is Cajun Ed’s, Hebert’s Specialty Meats, Mazzio’s, and Kai Burmese Cuisine, as well as plenty of fast food restaurants. Lodging near the campus can be found across the street at the Crowne Plaza-Tulsa Southern Hills or the Marriott Tulsa Hotel-Southern Hills, or the River Spirit Casino-Resort. Speaking of the resort, the casino is the main attraction near campus, but another is the Sherwin Miller Museum of Jewish Art, located on 71st Street. For avid golf fans, ORU is near the Southern Hills Country Club, host to 15 major championships since 1946. ORU’s campus itself has a beautiful setting, surrounded by grass, trees, and fountains, and the distance from downtown Tulsa is only 15 minutes, which opens up more restaurants, lodging, and attractions while you are in town. For any craft brewery fans, one place in downtown Tulsa that I enjoy is the Prairie Brewpub. Fans 2 The fact that Oral Roberts is a small university means that their alumni base is relatively small compared to the larger division 1 baseball programs. The attendance seems to be listed at 600 on average, but at the most recent game I attended there were closer to 200 fans. The fans were spirited and loud given the size of the crowd, however, and they showed that they were into the game by rising to the occasion several times during the contest. The visiting contingent had an impressive showing as well, and both teams’ fans seemed to feed off the other group. Golden Eagle fans are dedicated, but the issue is that there were too few of them to fill up the 2,000-seat ballpark; the crowd here is made up of about 90 percent of families, friends, alumni, and children. Access 4 J.L. Johnson Stadium is on the campus of Oral Roberts University; Oral Roberts University is located east of the Arkansas River between East 81st Street South and South Lewis Avenue in Tulsa, Oklahoma. The stadium is across from the Learning Resources Center behind the school’s basketball arena, Mabee Center. There is plenty of free parking around the stadium, but the ORU campus is a bit difficult to navigate, so it’s best to enter on University Drive off East 81st South. The campus is about 6 miles from downtown Tulsa, so the best way is to take I-75 South to the 71st Street east exit, then follow 71st for approximately 3 miles to the intersection of 71st and Lewis. Then turn right at the stoplight onto Lewis, and follow Lewis for 1/4 mile until you come to 81st Street. Take a left onto 81st, then another left onto University after the Mabee Center, then follow that road around to J.L. Johnson Stadium. Or, another way to find the ballpark is by a line of sight – University Ave off 81st South is across from the 2 tall towers of the Oklahoma Surgical Hospital, which was once operated by Oral Roberts University. Once at the stadium access is easy, as the walkways and the two ramps are big enough to support the crowd size; the seating areas are at the top of the ramps. Return on Investment 4 The overall return on investment is top-notch , as a trip to J.L. Johnson Stadium won’t be heavy on your wallet. The free parking and programs, along with the low concessions prices, would seem to offset any ticket prices. Yet, Oral Roberts ticket prices are well within the price of top Division 1 Baseball programs. At the cheapest end, the general admission price is $9 and located along the baselines, while the reserved is $13 behind home plate, and the couple rows of box seats are $16. A game at J.L. Johnson Stadium would be a good return for fans looking for an affordable sporting event. . Extras 1 The overall setting of the ballpark is simple, yet the talent of Division 1 baseball gives fans a great way to see top talented baseball players. Final Thoughts The recent trend of having the Summit League Tournament held at J.L. Johnson Stadium shows that the ballpark is highly thought of as a college baseball destination in the post-season. In addition, the ballpark is close to several lodging options, has easy access, and can be a perfect setting for baseball. Lastly, Oral Roberts has a competitive baseball program that can pique a baseball fan’s interest – combine these elements, and a trip to Oral Roberts University to watch baseball at J.L. Johnson Stadium is well worth the visit.

Photos by Matt Colville, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.86 Harper Davis Field Millsaps College Jackson, MS 39202 Millsaps College Majors website Harper Davis Field website Year Opened: 1920 Capacity: 3,000 Millsaps Football Millsaps College is a small private Methodist college located north of downtown Jackson, in the historic Belhaven neighborhood. The college is small by most standards with an enrollment of just over 900 students. Millsaps opened its doors in 1890 when Confederate veteran Major Reuben Webster Millsaps donated $550,000 and the land for the university. Named after Millsaps, the Majors compete at the Division III level in the Southern Athletic Association, and with their enrollment of 900 are currently the smallest school in the conference. Since first fielding a football team in 1920 the Majors have accumulated a record of 380-356-14 (.516). In the 1920s and 1930s the Majors regularly scheduled match-ups with Mississippi State , Ole Miss , and LSU . Millsaps has posted two undefeated seasons (1980 & 2008), three D3 playoff appearances (1975, 2006, & 2008), and six conference titles, with the most recent one being in 2009. The Majors originally competed as a D3 independent before joining the Southern Collegiate Athletic Conference in 1989. Difficulties in travel distances led Millsaps and six other members of the conference to leave in 2012 and form their own separate conference, the Southern Athletic Association (SAA). The Majors currently compete on campus at tiny Harper Davis Field. Named after former Mississippi State and Green Bay Packer Running Back, Davis was also Millsaps' all-time winningest coach, who coached the Majors from 1964 to 1988. The stadium was originally known as Alumni Field, and football has been played on the site since 1920. There wasn't much to the tiny field until 2004 when it was upgraded and renamed after Harper Davis, with the addition of a 3,000-seat grandstand, eight-man working press box, and a newly installed artificial turf surface. Food & Beverage 1 There are two tables set up under tents as soon as you enter the main gate; one is the concessions stand and the other sells a small selection of various Millsaps Majors gear. The concessions stand sells the basics like hamburgers, hot dogs, nachos, and popcorn, and everything is under $5. Canned soft drinks are sold for $1. The burgers and hot dogs are cooked fresh on a large grill outside the main gate. The concessions are fairly limited, but cheap at the same time. However, I would recommend getting something to eat at one of Jackson's many restaurants. Atmosphere 3 The atmosphere is pleasant; outside the stadium there is a small number of fans tailgating all throughout campus. The campus itself is a very scenic campus, with many of the buildings being over 100 years old. There are civil war cannons, a clock tower you can climb, and you can also visit the tomb of the college's founder Major Millsaps. If you’re into history, I highly suggest walking around the campus before the game. The stadium is kind of in a secluded area on campus, right next to the Hangar Dome , which houses the Majors basketball team and the school's recreation and fitness center. There's a large fountain outside the gate with one main entrance into Harper Davis Field. There is another entrance into the stadium from the basketball arena, but the football teams use the arena for their locker rooms, so they use this entrance on game days. The Hangar Dome is a part of Maurice Hall Activities Center, which houses the school's fitness and recreation facilities. Inside the building is a beautiful hallway lined with an impressive display filled with trophies, banners, programs, old game balls, etc. from all the past athletic feats at Millsaps. You can view football artifacts dating back to the 1920s, and you can view former quarterback Juan Joseph's Conerly Trophy. Joseph, a former CFL and Arena Football quarterback, won the award in 2008; the prize is given out annually to the best college football player in the State of Mississippi. Past winners of the award include Deuce McAllister, Eli Manning, Patrick Willis, and Dak Prescott. The field faces north and south with the main stands being located on the west side of the field. The east side stands consist of 3 sets of temporary metal bleachers that extend about 15 rows up. The stands on the west side are metal bleachers as well but extend only 5 rows back, with the seats in the middle being purple chair back seats. There is a small press box with a pretty cool looking observation platform for filming games. The scoreboard is located in the south end zone, while trees and the practice fields take up the view in the north end zone. The big stadium off in the distance to the north is Mississippi Veterans Memorial Stadium , home of the Jackson State football team . Neighborhood 3 Millsaps’ campus is located in a mostly residential area north of downtown. While there is nothing within walking distance of the college, just a short drive north will take you to the Fondren District – located near the Ole Miss Med School, this is Jackson’s nightlife area, and you will find numerous restaurants and bars on this one block strip, my favorite being Fondren Public. You can play all sorts of games such as bocce ball, corn hole, shuffleboard, and over-sized jenga, as well as multiple board games so this bar has a really cool feel to it. There are numerous other bars and restaurants located in Fondren as well, however, such as Pig & Pint (known for its BBQ), Walker’s Drive Inn, Babalu Tapas & Tacos, and Sal & Mookie’s Pizza. But another bar in the area I suggest checking out is Brent’s Drugs – from the outside it looks like a regular pharmacy, and with the soda fountain inside it’s very reminiscent of 50’s style diner. However, in the back there is a speakeasy style bar that was used during prohibition – it’s a very interesting bar that gets pretty packed at night. There are also numerous bars in the downtown area as well, a couple of miles south of campus, such as Hal and Mal’s, Fenians, and Old Tavern on George Street. In addition, Underground 119 is a cool underground blues bar located in downtown. However, the downtown area is not exactly the safest area, so use caution when walking here after dark. Lakeland Drive is located about a mile north of Belhaven’s campus and you can find all the usual chain restaurants and lodging in this area. For attractions, I recommend checking out the Mississippi Sports Hall of Fame, which is a very nice interactive museum that doesn’t get too packed during the week, and you could spend hours just walking through all the different exhibits located in the museum. The Hall of Fame is located on Lakeland Drive, right next to historic Smith-Wills Stadium, former home of the Minor League Jackson Mets/Generals and the current home to the Belhaven baseball team. Fans 3 The Majors are averaging about 1,700 fans per home contest this 2019 season, which is down from the 2,300 fans they averaged last year. This is about on par with what most of the other schools average in the Southern Athletic Association. Many of the students at Millsaps stay on campus, and Millsaps has a pretty big Greek life program for a such a small school, so many of the students show up on game day. There is not an assigned student section, but there were a large number of students sitting on the east metal bleachers at the game of this review. The atmosphere in the west chair back bleacher section is much more relaxed, with a bit of an older mix of alumni and players' parents. The fans here seem very knowledgeable and into the game; there is not a large tailgating scene but there are several fans sitting on the berm in the north end zone. Access 3 Millsaps’ campus is located north of downtown Jackson, just west of I-55 in the Belhaven neighborhood of Jackson. The college is located in a residential area of town, a couple of blocks west of another school named Belhaven University ; the Blazers are D3 as well and share a fierce rivalry with the Majors. When coming to the campus, the Woodrow Wilson Drive exit off I-55 is your best bet; just take rush hour traffic into account, as the interstate tends to back up especially on the north side of downtown, so plan accordingly. The campus can be easy to miss as it is pretty small, but just follow Woodrow Wilson Drive until you get to the State Street intersection. Because of the size of the campus, finding a parking spot can be difficult. There is a small parking lot located right outside Harper David Stadium, but it fills up quickly because so many students live on campus. Instead you can park across the street or you can park in the campus parking garage on the south side of campus – just take State Street until you get to the Park Street intersection, and the parking garage is on the right. Return on Investment 3 General admission seating is $5; the GA seats consist of any seats on the metal bleachers on the east and west sides. To purchase tickets for the 300 or so chair back seats on the west side the cost is $10. Factor in the concessions prices and a beautiful setting on a beautiful campus, and I consider this a good return on investment – Harper Davis Field is kind of an underrated venue, and one that not a lot of people know about. Extras 4 A play that some consider the greatest play in sports history happened at Harper Davis Field on Oct 27, 2007. Late in the fourth quarter, with Millsaps leading Trinity College 24-22, Trinity would get the ball back on their own 40 with two seconds left on the clock. What would proceed next would make the 1982 Play between Cal and Stanford , and the 2003 River City Relay between the Saints and Jaguars , look like “conservative play-calling”. Trinity College quarterback Blake Barmore would complete a short pass up the middle to receiver Shawn Thompson; Thompson would lateral the ball to another receiver Riley Curry. The ball was then lateraled 14 more times between 7 different players, en route to the 61-yard touchdown and the 28-24 win for Trinity College . The play was dubbed the Mississippi Miracle and was voted ESPN's 2007 Pontiac Game Changing Play of the Year, as well as nominated for the 2008 ESPY Award for Play of the Year. In addition, the 15-lateral play has the record for longest time for an individual play in football history – it lasted 62 seconds from the time the ball was snapped until it finally crossed the goal line (you can see the video of the Mississippi Miracle below). https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z7oF4ZDigjM The Majors were also coached during this time period by former Alabama head coach Mike DuBose, who coached at Millsaps from 2005 to 2009. Also, from 2006 through 2008, the New Orleans Saints used Millsaps College as their training camp home, and practiced at Harper Davis Field. In fact, some could argue that the Drew Brees-Sean Payton era began right here at Millsaps, as the two would join the team for the 2006 season. You can also still walk around the old soccer practice field on the north side of campus, and still find old tackling dummies bearing faded Saints logos. During the 2006 pre-season the Indianapolis Colts came to town for a series of pre-season scrimmages against the Saints at Harper-Davis Field; they would meet up that weekend in an official pre-season game across the street at Mississippi Veterans Memorial Field . It would be the only time in his career Peyton Manning would play a game in the city of Jackson, and it would mark a Manning's return to Jackson for the first time since Archie dominated so many Egg Bowls here in the 1960s. Though some may not realize it, there is a lot of big time college football history that happened in Jackson. Millsaps has two main rivals; Mississippi College from nearby Clinton and Belhaven University from just down the street. The rivalry with Mississippi College , nicknamed the Backyard Brawl, originally stretches back to the 1920s – the two teams met up every year (except during World War II) for 39 years until the series was discontinued in 1959. The rivalry was a fierce, heated rivalry where students would often cause extensive damage to each other’s universities. In fact, the reason the series was discontinued in 1959 is because there was rumor that students from Mississippi College broke into Major Millsaps tomb on campus and stole his body. However, the series was restarted in 2000, and the two teams began meeting every year across the street at The Vet , which at the time was the largest stadium in the state. Another fierce rivalry for the Majors is their neighbors from right down the street, the Belhaven Blazers . Though the two schools have been playing each other for years in different sports, it wasn't until 2014 that the two schools would face each other in football for the first time. Nicknamed the Riverside Rumble, the atmosphere definitely increases a notch when these two teams meet up. Both teams usually start off the season facing one another, and both teams are currently tied at 3 wins apiece as of this season. Another extra for the number of college football games one could attend while in the area. Millsaps, Belhaven , and Jackson State's football stadium are all located within blocks from each other. I recommend checking the schedule for when all three teams play on the same day, which happens at least once or twice a year. On my most recent visit I was able to check out a noon game at Belhaven , walk two blocks and watch the Millsaps game at 2:30, and then walk across the street to watch the Jackson State Tigers play. You could also venture about 30 minutes west to see Mississippi College play in Clinton, or drive 90 miles south to catch Southern Miss play in Hattiesburg. Final Thoughts Football in the South in huge, and when most people think of football in the South they think of the SEC. In Mississippi most people think of either Ole Miss or Mississippi State . However, much like its neighbor and rival to the east Belhaven , there remains a nice little football stadium off the beaten path, on a nice, quaint little campus. If in Jackson on Saturday in the fall I definitely recommend a trip to Harper Davis Field.

Photos by Aaron S. Terry, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.00 Eugene B. Depew Field 19 Bucknell West Dr Lewisburg, PA 17837 Bucknell Bison baseball website Eugene B. Depew Field website Year Opened: 2003 Capacity: 1000 Historic Town, Modern Turf Bucknell University is located in Lewisburg, PA. The baseball stadium here is named after Eugene Depew, who coached Bucknell’s baseball squad for thirty years in the 80s, 90s, and 00s, and is the longest serving baseball coach in the history of the program. Bucknell currently competes in the Patriot League in NCAA Division 1, which only has 6 baseball schools including Bucknell. The stadium was formally dedicated in 2003 as Eugene B. Depew Field, so Depew actually coached here for almost a decade while it was named after him. Food & Beverage 3 Like many smaller schools, Bucknell offers concessions from a mobile trailer, so the selection is a bit limited, but there are a few unique items, including soup, iced tea, and hot tea, and the prices are low. Hot dogs are $2.50, peanuts are $2, pretzels are $1.75 (note that they are smaller however than the ones you usually find at stadiums), candy is $1.50, chips are $1, and soup is $2 – different varieties are available on different days, including chili on some days, clam chowder on others, etc. There are actually more drink options than food options, including iced tea for $2-$3, PowerAde, bottled water, or soda for $2, hot cocoa for $1.50, and coffee or hot tea for $1.25. Atmosphere 2 The playing surface itself at Eugene B. Depew Field is state of the art due to recent renovations, but the facilities and amenities leave a lot to be desired (one could even say they are rustic). First of all there is not even an actual grandstand, just several sets of low metal bleachers (without chair backs), so while you are technically closer to the action it is a little difficult to see. In fact, a lot of fans don’t even sit on the bleachers, but instead bring chairs and sit farther back on the sidewalk or on the hill overlooking first base. The second issue is that there is not a real press box, just a mobile wooden trailer. This may not seem like an issue to some, but the impact to fans is that one set of bleachers is pushed further away from home plate than would be ideal, because that space is taken up by the trailer. There are also batting cages and such along that same side, which force the bleachers even further to the left; the training paraphernalia at least should have been located elsewhere, and will have to be moved in any case if Bucknell ever builds a grandstand at Eugene B. Depew Field. It is interesting that the visiting fans tend to cluster on that more distant set of bleachers, and not the home crowd – perhaps this placement was intentional. Neighborhood 3 In the immediate vicinity of Eugene B. Depew Field are several other athletic fields, including the soccer field, the football stadium, and the softball field, as well as several small dorms. Therefore, if you are looking for something to do before or after the game, nearby Market Street is the place to be at Bucknell. Located about a mile from the baseball diamond, Market is your classic college strip replete with restaurants and bars, a movie theater, and of course shopping. The Smiling Chameleon offers 30 drafts on tap, as well as sandwiches, sliders, several pasta options, and a variety of seafood dishes. The Towne Tavern is another good option, albeit a little more expensive, but with more typical bar fare including burgers, bar plates, and several dessert options. Probably the best thing about Market Street, however, is the architecture – Lewisburg is a historic town, and the architecture on Market reflects that. The buildings and homes tend to be row style, but with facades that vary in color and material (some stone, some brick, etc.) so it offers some nice variety while still providing a pleasing aesthetic. If you plan to stay for the weekend, and maybe take in a whole series, there are several hotels within a few miles of the field, including Days Inn, Best Western, Comfort Suites, and the Lewisburg Hotel. In terms of local attractions, the Little League Museum in nearby South Williamsport (about half an hour or 40 minutes north of Lewisburg) is well worth a visit. Completely redone in 2012-13, the artifacts and interactive displays powerfully showcase not only the game but also its impact on US and world history, as well as its influence on sports safety for baseball and numerous other sports as well. Admission is $5 for adults and $2 for kids 5 and older (free for younger children). The museum is open daily from 9 am to 5 pm. Fans 3 Bucknell draws a good crowd, although not many of them tend to wear team gear, and there is none for sale at the field. The fans do come prepared for the game; as I mentioned earlier many of them bring their own chairs and sit further back than the stands, so while the bleachers themselves may not be full there is still some pretty good crowd noise. Of the 3 sections of bleachers, the one nearest third base seems to be unofficially reserved for the visiting fans, and most of them do wear gear, and don’t bother to bring their own chairs since there is no higher ground over there to occupy. Access 3 Lewisburg, PA is not hard to find – it is located in a rural area a few miles south of I-80, or west of I-180, but not so far away you have to be on local roads for too long. There is plenty of free parking all around the field, although most of it is fairly close to the fence so beware of balls hitting your car. There are bathrooms near the stadium, but not on-site per se – they are located in a separate building behind the outfield so there is a little bit of a walk to get to them; not the kind you probably want to send your kid to unescorted since he or she would be well out of sight. Return on Investment 4 As with many smaller parks they don’t sell tickets to baseball games at Bucknell, so admission is free, as is parking. Concessions are on the very cheap side, so a pretty cheap date to take in a game here. There is some decent crowd noise, and you can get very close to the action if you are into taking pics to slap on Facebook, so certainly worthwhile in terms of value for the money. As I mentioned the Little League Museum is nearby, so for the true baseball fan this is a great choice for a weekend trip to see some games and immerse yourself a little in the history of the game. Extras 3 One point for the Little League Museum since it provides a related attraction that perfectly complements the action on the field. A second point for the state of the art field – even though it contrasts a bit with the lack of amenities at Eugene B. Depew Field, it is a nice playing surface with modern fences, dugouts, and backstop. A third point for the architecture on Market Street. Nothing to do with baseball I know, but it adds to the beauty of the campus and makes for a more interesting trip since a lot of your time during a visit will be spent off the diamond. Final Thoughts A good place to see a game – while it lacks the amenities of many of the larger parks, if you can overlook that you will find a great playing surface, and there are a lot of cool things to do in the area before or after the game.

Photos by Aaron S. Terry, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.71 GoMart Ballpark 601 Morris St Charleston, WV 25301 Marshall Thundering Herd website GoMart Ballpark website Year Opened: 2005 Capacity: 4,500 A Tale of Three Stadiums Marshall baseball calls three separate stadiums home – most conference games are played at Appalachian Power Park, a minor league stadium in Charleston, WV that is home to the West Virginia Power. However, due to occasional conflicts and because they do have some fan presence further south, each year one or two series are played at Linda K. Epling Stadium in Beckley, WV, a 2,500-seat venue that is also home to the West Virginia Miners, a collegiate summer baseball team. The third location the team frequents is a local YMCA field back in Huntington, WV, near where the main campus is located – that venue is used mostly for non-conference games. However, since more games are played at Appalachian Power Park than the other two venues, Appalachian Power Park is the subject of this review – this is also the largest and “best” of the three stadiums in terms of facilities, including the brand-new turf and other amenities here. Note: Appalachian Power Park's name changed to GoMart Ballpark in the Fall of 2022. Food & Beverage 3 The concessions are more limited during Marshall games than when the Power plays at Appalachian Power Park, but there is still a fairly good selection. Hot dogs are $3, pizza is $4, and burgers are $5 (add $1 for cheese). Pretzels, nachos, peanuts, popcorn, and Cracker Jack are all $4, which is about average compared to other venues. Coffee and hot chocolate are $2, soda starts at $3, water and Gatorade are $4, and beer is $6 – you can choose Yuengling, Budweiser, Bud Light, or Michelob Ultra. Atmosphere 3 The atmosphere at Appalachian Power Park for Marshall baseball depends on whether or not there is a doubleheader with the West Virginia Power that day. On those days, you will have to pay for tickets and parking, but there is a larger crowd and more concession stands are open. There will also be more energy and excitement in the air due to the larger crowd, but there will also be security on hand so you can’t wander as much. Conversely, on days when there isn’t a doubleheader, there might only be one or two hundred on hand, if that, but you can get in for free and not pay for parking. You can also wander around wherever you please since they don’t bother to have any security on those days since the crowd is so small – it all depends on what type of experience you prefer. If you happen to be the wandering type (like me), there are plenty of different seating options, almost all of which have chair backs. There are also plenty of tables so you can watch while you eat, and even a bouncy house set up for the kids – see the Extras section for more details and to watch a video about the different options. Neighborhood 5 As is typical for larger cities, Charleston, WV is loaded with restaurants, bars, and tourist attractions, along with myriad hotels if you are staying for the weekend. About 10-12 blocks from Appalachian Power Park you will find Pies & Pints Pizzeria, with craft beers starting at $5 and serving a wide variety of fabulous house pizzas. Further out at Town Center Mall, there is an Outback Steakhouse if you prefer something more traditional, or you can visit Tidewater Grill, a seafood & raw bar. If you are looking for something to do before or after you dine, about 3-4 blocks from the baseball field is Avampato Discovery Museum, with programs and exhibits geared towards kids. There is also the Charleston historic district a little further away, as well as the state capitol with its impressive gold dome. Fans 3 While there aren’t very many fans present, almost all of them wear Marshall gear, and they get into the game, yelling at the ref for his frequent (at least in their eyes) horrible calls. They also faithfully cheer their team and boo the bad guys at the appropriate times. Access 5 Appalachian Power Park is easy to get to, only a mile or two off I-64 in Charleston. There is plenty of parking right across the street from the field, which is only $3 when attendants are present – there is a parking deck as well as several surface lots. The surface lots are more than sufficient for a typical Marshall crowd, I never recommend parking decks since there is sometimes a line to get out. There are plenty of bathrooms inside the stadium, more than enough for the typical Marshall crowd; one set on each baseline, and these are commercial size with many stalls and stations, not the typical small ones with only one or two stalls. Return on Investment 4 Tickets for Marshall baseball at Appalachian Power Park cost $7, or $5 in groups of 8 or more. However, as I mentioned earlier on most days they don’t even check, so you can probably get in for free – depending on how many tickets are sold beforehand, the administration sometimes decides not to bother having security show up. If you want to try and get in for free, make sure to pick a non-Power doubleheader day (see the Atmosphere section for more details on this). Even at $7 though it is probably worthwhile, even better at $5. As for parking, when it isn’t free it is only $3, and concession prices are about average. Marshall gear is also available, starting at around $10 or $12 for a hat or shirt, and a little more for sweatshirts and other items, although you can get visors for as little as $5. So all in all, a pretty good value for the experience. Extras 3 1 point for the multiple seating options, including plastic seats with metal armrests and cup holders, picnic tables at multiple levels (top of the concourse, field level, etc.), handicap seating at the top of the concourse, high-top tables with umbrellas, the two-level Bud Light party deck with metal chairs, plastic bucket-style seats on the far side facing the press box, metal bleachers with chair back rails, even seating up in the boxes you can sneak into. See them all here in living color: Another point for the lack of security on certain days that allows you to get in for free and wander all over the stadium as you, please. A third point for the size and enclosure of the facility that helps fans capture errant balls – allow me to explain. One of the most enjoyable activities at a baseball game is the opportunity to chase down foul balls and home runs. At many stadiums, the size and layout are such that these balls are hit out of the park, making it difficult to hunt them down in grassy or off-limits areas. Not so at Appalachian Power Park, where the set-up causes foul balls to mostly land on the concourse behind the press box, and home runs to mostly land on the cement walkway behind the outfield, so kids and others can easily locate them. Final Thoughts A fairly new stadium with great seating options and decent prices, the venue is well worth a visit either for a Power game or a Thundering Herd event. Located in downtown Charleston, it is easy to find plenty of restaurants and other attractions nearby, so an easy choice for a weekend visit if you want to take in the whole series, or just for a day trip.

Photo Credit Spatms Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 1.86 David R. Stopher Gym Nicholls State-Acadia St. Thibodaux, LA 70310 Nicholls State Colonels website David R. Stopher Gym website Year Opened: 1970 Capacity: 3,800 Nickel’s Worth at Nicholls When you go to south Louisiana, you have to go all the way down to the bayous to find a city named Thibodaux where the Colonels of Nicholls State University reside. Nicholls is probably the southernmost university in the state and as the campus sits across from Bayou Lafourche you know you’re down with the gators. If you’re ever down at Nicholls State for a basketball game you should know that the teams play in David R. Stopher Gymnasium, which opened in 1970. The Stopher caps out at 3,800 fans but for a small D-I school, there are some perks about it. Food & Beverage 2 Concession stand? Let’s just call it a snack bar. In Stopher Gym, there is one snack bar area where you can get hot dogs and nachos for $3 each. However, the beverage prices are set pretty high. PowerAde ($3), bottle of water ($3), and the soda is $3. And the snack bar is located as soon as you walk in the door of the gym. I thought I was arriving at a packed game when I walked in, but it was the snack line mixing with the ticket line. Atmosphere 1 The atmosphere was very high school like, having the few loyal fans who dress up and then the older crowd who is just spectating. One thing I was really impressed with was the upper section of the seats that were upstairs. They looked to be regular bleacher seats and could be used as such, but there also were mini seatbacks that could fold up and give you some back support. I did expect a more rowdy atmosphere since the Colonels are the only school in this area of the state and it was a conference game, so the atmosphere overall was a disappointment. Neighborhood 3 Thibodaux is a pretty small college town, which means you won’t find a whole lot to do in the area. If you’re into history though then you’ve struck gold here. There is a sugar plantation that has been running since the late 1800s in the area and the downtown area seems to have a nice taste of history behind it as well. Other than that, you’ll find your ordinary small college town, which includes fast food chains and a shopping strip about a mile away from the campus. However I must add that there are a few restaurants there that you must visit. One is called Politz’s Steak and Seafood; remember you are in the south along the bayous so the seafood is what you want to concentrate on experiencing. Fans 1 The fans weren’t in abundance for whatever reason – maybe the students go back home on weekends – but the fans that were there made sure you knew they were in the building. There wasn’t much chanting going on and the only noise really was that which came from the band members. I thought for sure all colleges had a fan base and student section; that was until I arrived at the Stopher. When you talk about student support, you can count on one hand those who showed up for the Colonels. The band did the best it could along with the cheerleaders and dance team, but the fan element definitely was missing and the school needs to find a way to get fans in the stands. Access 2 Access to the college and gym wasn’t the easiest thing, being that there isn’t a major interstate to take to just get off and make a few turns. You get there through the highways and the way I went I just followed the Bayou Lafourche, that way I couldn’t miss it because the campus is located directly across from it. To make things trickier there aren’t any signs that say arena or sporting complexes once you’re on the campus. Once you get to the back of the campus, Stopher Gym doesn’t stand out at all from the other building of the school, so it’s confusing as to where the gym is. I wasn’t particularly happy with riding around the campus hoping to stumble upon it because I like to know where I’m going. But once you’re in, the Stopher is easily accessed. As soon as walk in you get tickets, concessions, you look to the right you see bathrooms, you look straight ahead there’s the court – very high school-esque to say the least. Return on Investment 3 Here’s what I consider to be the only treasure you’ll find for watching the Colonels basketball. With ticket prices ranging from $5 – $12 and free parking, you will not find a much cheaper basketball experience. The concessions aren’t worth the time, but if you hold out on the food there, you’ll notice on the back of your ticket a free McDonalds Big Mac coupon. And yes, it works in the surrounding McDonalds in Thibodaux – I know from experience. If you’re looking for the best of college basketball this definitely isn’t the place, but if you’re looking for a cheap game to attend and a free Big Mac, here’s where you need to be. Extras 1 The only treasure is the ticket to get in because you get a free Big Mac after the game – win, lose, or draw. Other than that, the Nicholls experience didn’t quite give me my nickel’s worth. Luckily I’m a Big Mac fan though.

Photos by Meg Minard, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.43 Empire Ballpark Nicholson Rd & Wilfred Rd Thornlie, WA 6155 Australia Perth Heat website Perth Ballpark website Year Opened: 2004 Capacity: 4,500 Originally posted 1/28/2016 The Power of Perth Since the return of the Australian Baseball League in 2010, the Perth Heat has been the team to beat. They have been champions for the 2010/11, 11/12 and 13/14 seasons and were the runner up in the 12/13 season. Perth Heat are heavily involved in the local community and are particularly well known for their support of the Team Spencer charity, raising money for research into Spinal Muscular Atrophy. Barbagallo Ballpark (now known as Perth Harley-Davidson Ballpark) is the premier baseball facility in Western Australia and has had steady upgrades over the last few seasons. Additional funding is already secured as part of a staged plan to continue to upgrade the ballpark. The next tranche of funding is set to upgrade the toilet block and the stadium lighting. Baseball through all age groups is played at Barbagallo approximately 250 days/year. Barbagallo is a lovely venue with lots of space for kids to run and play catch, good food and beverages, fantastic customer service, and a lovely family/summer feel. Note: Stadium name changed to Empire Ballpark Dec, 2020. Food & Beverage 4 There is a wide variety of food and drink options at Barbagallo Ballpark. There is one permanent concession stand/kiosk located on the concourse towards the third base side that is run by local organizations as part of fundraising for that group. It offers hot dogs, pies, sausage rolls, candy, soda, chips, ice cream, etc. ranging from $1-$6. There’s a bar with eight different beers (lagers and ales) as well as bottled beer on offer. Draft beer is $7 and the bottles go for $5-$8. Wine and pre-mixed spirits are also available. The food specialty is in the trucks that provide a variety of food options including Dal Pizzaiolo (Woodfired pizza) full pizza for $15, Gringo’s Grill (hot dogs, chilli dogs, pulled pork sandwiches for $5-$15), Kazz’s Caribbean Kitchen (jerk chicken, corn, rice, and curry for $15), and Chillout In Style (shaved ice, ice cream, candy floss, chillers) for $5. Except for Chillout In Style, which is located by the left field bleachers, all concessions are on the concourse. Pizzas can be delivered to your seat after ordering at the truck, or you can lean on the fence behind the corporate boxes and have a nicely unimpeded view of the infield while you wait. Pre-packaged, but unbranded food such as sandwiches, fruit, and chips are permitted inside the park. Atmosphere 3 The outfield has some tall gum trees and it is very pleasant to watch the sky take on sunset colours above them. The coastal plain of Perth is very flat and Barbagallo Ballpark has only one level – from inside the ballpark, the field is the easiest thing to see. With the reasonably large space available and a comparatively small seating capacity, Barbagallo Ballpark has some grass areas from which the game can be seen. The hill beside the left field dugout is a hugely popular spot for children, who spend most of the game hanging out, playing, and trying to snag foul balls. Both before and after the 8th inning there is the “running of the kids” across the outfield. Reserved seating consists of three sections directly behind home plate. The stretches down to first and third base are general admission seating. The wheelchair section is next to the players’ families section on the concourse above third base. There is a small set of bleachers down the third base line and a much larger set down the first base line. At the very top of the first base bleachers is a set of resort-style outdoor lounges on fake grass. Corporate boxes line the edge of the concourse and there is a VIP Corporate Lounge above first base. The boxes and the lounge have food and drink service. Right next to the first base dugout is the On Field Lounge, which is the closest seating to the field. The reserved seating is under shade sails which also provide some shelter from rain, should something as unlikely as rain happen during a Perth summer. Shade comes to the first base side first, however shade from the reserved seating sails also moves over the third base general seating at the same time. All seating in the ballpark has a good view of the game. I would only recommend reserved seating for day games when it is simply too hot to sit in the sun. Players in the ABL are very accessible and are often available before and after games for signatures. There are plenty of opportunities to talk to players pre and post game – the outfield in particular is very accessible. Home team players pick their own walk-up music and walk-up music for the visiting team is selected on their behalf. The ground announcer takes plenty of time to announce the players and their positions, which is helpful to those who like to keep score. There is between-innings music and crowd participation games in the longer breaks after the 3rd and 6th innings. The LED video scoreboard is clear and easy to see in both day and night. Neighborhood 2 There really is nothing within easy walking distance of the ballpark. The ballpark is within Tom Bateman reserve and the immediate area is bounded by a major north/south road, the Roe Highway, a freight rail line, and suburban housing. The Thornlie train station is on the far side of the Reserve and into the suburbs – approximately a 2km walk. That train line takes you back into Perth in under 25 minutes. You can choose to get off early and go to the cafe/restaurant suburb of Victoria Park (Victoria Park Station) or the all-night party at Burswood Casino (Burswood Station). Perth is a beautiful city and one of the most isolated in the world, located in one of the original 25 worldwide biodiversity hotspots. The Mediterranean climate is similar to Southern California, so it can get very hot and dry over the summer. You may wish to visit earlier in the season rather than later for the best baseball weather. Take a few days if you can to explore the beaches, rivers, vineyards and forests within the city limits. There are free bus services throughout the downtown area and inner suburbs and in the historic beachside suburb of Fremantle. Perth beaches are white sand with crystal clear cool water. The Swan River is filled with people paddling, rowing, fishing, boating and skiing. Kings Park in the heart of the city has beautiful views over the city and both Perth Water and Melville Water. The low range of hills behind the city are largely reserved for state and national parks and there are plenty of hiking trails through which to explore them. The historic town of Guildford about 20 minutes from the city centre makes a great base for exploring the still-rural Swan Valley, which is home to the oldest vineyards in Western Australia. Fans 4 The Perth Heat has a solid fan base and regularly attracts first timers to the ballpark. Crowds have doubled since the 2010/11 season. Baseball knowledge is very uneven across the crowd, but people are very happy to talk with pretty much anyone about anything. The crowd and staff at Barbagallo are one of the friendliest I have encountered in my travels. Heat stalwart Spider, who runs that Catch Card competition is cheerful, friendly, always willing to talk to everyone, the first ‘staff’ face seen inside the ballpark and really sets the tone for the evening. Funds from the Catch Card competition help support the Heat interns. It is more than 1,500 miles to the nearest city and team in the league. This is true of all other sporting codes except Australian Rules Football, where Perth hosts two teams. Given the cost of travel, it is uncommon for supporters of other teams to make the trip to Perth. The incredibly one-sided nature of the crowd is the same across all sports in Perth and is one of the most distinctive things about attending a home game for any Perth team. If there is the odd supporter of the opposing team at Barbagallo, they are generally treated very well. Even if they are Canberra Cavalry fans. The freight train that often runs behind the outfield wall is called the Rally Train. On some evenings the crowd will sing along with Darryl Braithwaite’s “Horses.” Take Me Out to the Ball Game gets its traditional airing in the middle of the 7th, but YMCA gets far more crowd participation. Access 3 Barbagallo Ballpark is located in the Tom Bateman Reserve, in the suburb of Thornlie, about 15km from the heart of Perth city. The reserve is home to Barbagallo Ballpark, a softball diamond, a kids playground and two large grassed sports grounds. There are really only two ways recommended to get to the ballpark. Driving is the easiest way and the ballpark is located near the intersection of two of Perth’s major arterial roads. There is plenty of parking available for the cost of a ‘gold coin’ donation ($1 or $2). When parking, be aware that later arrivals must make a sharp u-turn onto a grassed area. Cars with larger turning circles may need to swing wide to make this turn. The other option is to go via train and walk or bicycle the 2km from Thornlie station. With the current ‘speed-up’ rules in place, games are ending in plenty of time to walk back to the train station before the last train, but the 30 minutes between trains in the evening can make for a long boring wait. Should you choose this option, a full-fare ticket is $4.40 each way to the downtown area. It is free to take a bicycle on the train. Game tickets are easy to come by, with a caravan just to the left of the gates providing options to pick up pre-purchased tickets and cash sales taking place just inside the gates. Bag check is quick, easy, cheerful and friendly. Wheelchair access is available and the wheelchair ramp provides a view of the back of the clubhouse. It is pretty common to see the players relaxing here prior to the game. The wheelchair section itself is right next to the section for the players’ families on the concourse near the food trucks. The toilet block is small and lines for the ladies can get very long, very quickly. There are plans and funding in place to upgrade the toilet block at the end of the 2014/15 season. It is very easy to move around the ballpark and most people are considerate about moving between batters or innings. The hills down from the general admission seating to the bleachers are steep and a little rough. High heels are not recommended in this area. Return on Investment 4 At $19.90, general admission in Perth is substantially more expensive than general admission tickets in South Korea and is on a par with reserved seating at most minor league parks in the USA. Crowd engagement is also much lower than in those international ballparks, which is more a reflection of the laidback attitude of the Australian crowd than the effort put in by the Perth Heat staff. That said, there are regular promotions and group sales can get your ticket pricing as low as $10 each, which is in-line with international pricing. Multi-game punch cards and a range of membership options also bring the per-game price down substantially and are well worth the investment if you live in the area. Given the small size of the ballpark, all tickets are good tickets and there are a huge range of seating options for general admission. General admission ticket, dinner, a beer and a coffee work out to more than $40 – though of course you can bring your own food and drink and limit this cost. If you are planning to get dinner at the ballpark, getting a group together for a Corporate Box at approximately $50 each including complimentary food and drink is definitely the way to go if you can manage it. Overall, a Perth Heat game is solid value for the money and a very enjoyable experience. Extras 4 I cannot recommend the Perth Heat staff highly enough. They have always been utterly amazing, including times when I have been ordering tickets from overseas to be shipped to various places around Western Australia. Given that baseball is still something of a niche sport in Australia, Perth Heat does a solid job of getting out in the community and being visible. For a small park, the food choices at Barbagallo are excellent – fresh, delicious and ranging from Aussie standards, to ballpark standards, to the slightly unusual and a little bit gourmet. The range of on-tap beer is also a solid step up from what you might expect of a park this size. The crowd in Perth really are super-friendly. I cannot say enough what a great baseball community you’ll find in the stands in Perth.

Photos by Martin McNelis, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 4.00 Oriel Park Carrickmacross Road Dundalk, County Louth Ireland Dundalk FC website Oriel Park website Year Opened: 1936 Capacity: 4,500 Vibrant and Lively Venue in Dundalk Dundalk FC were founded in 1903, nicknamed ‘The Lilywhites’ for their predominantly white kit. The club have been playing at Oriel Park since 1936. The town of Dundalk is located in the east of the country, in County Louth which is close to the border with Northern Ireland. The club’s nearest rivals are Drogheda United. Oriel Park is an old fashioned stadium with a mixture of new and old features, with a capacity of 4,500. This includes a traditional Main Stand, a new covered enclosure opposite, standing areas behind both goals, and open area corner seating added at either side of the Main Stand. Under an experienced manager in Stephen Kenny, the club have won the league title in 2014 and 2015. This has ensured qualification for the Champions League Qualifiers, elevating the club’s profile, while providing extra income for the club, which in turn has enabled the club to make improvements both on and off the pitch. The club have been playing on a synthetic surface since 2005 and were the first to do so in Ireland. This also allows the Dundalk teams of all ages to train on it along with local teams getting to use it; again enhancing income streams. Food & Beverage 3 The refreshments options are very limited, with a couple of burger and ice cream type vans offering hot and cold drinks, burgers, and hot dogs. If that’s not what you are after, then you will have to wait until after the game and treat yourself at a local shop or a take away/fast food outlet. The majority, if not all clubs in the League of Ireland are part time, so the funds to improve specific areas like designated eating areas are limited. Bringing in third party companies and vans is convenient for them. That being the case, it may prove beneficial to bring in vans that offer more (dare I say) healthier options, for both hot and cold foods. I suppose from experience the people who run the vans will know what is popular, and know their market enough to make changes based on supply and demand. Atmosphere 4 The atmosphere at Oriel Park is excellent and the locals really embrace the team. Walking around town you will see people wearing the kits, badges, stickers and pennants hanging in shops, cars, and house windows. For bigger fixtures like European games or derby matches against Drogheda there are organised marches from the town centre to the stadium. With flags, banners, drums, singing and pyros it certainly adds to the atmosphere, more so if you are visiting. Even throughout the game, the main area where the singing emanates from is the enclosure on the far side, which at certain points encourages others to join in and get involved. The stadium entry is down a lane off Carrickmacross Road which takes you down to the Main Stand. This is the main hub for office use, dressing rooms, and club shop with the turnstiles on the left and right hand side. The away fans are situated on the right and will get limited use of both covered and open seating areas. Behind the left hand goal is a slightly sloped grass embankment for standing, which is known as ‘the Town End’ and it is a popular area for league matches. Behind the other goal at the Carrick Road end, there is limited standing space due to a large green net to catch stray balls, and that’s due to there being nothing there apart from a narrow road and wasteland. The Main Stand is quite small and does not run the full length of the pitch. It has had a roof replacement in the last decade and has open seating on either side and this is to increase capacity due to the UEFA restrictions for European ties. Opposite is ‘The Shed’ which is an old small terrace that has had seats fitted and a roof to cover it in recent years. It also has open seating on either side of it, which isn’t ideal for the average winters day in Ireland. The best view is from the Main Stand as it is elevated from the rest of the ground, providing the best vantage point to see the action, though there are a couple of supporting pillars, but doesn’t impede your view too much. Neighborhood 4 The local people in the shops, pubs, and hotels, as well as club staff are very friendly and welcoming. They are often keen to ask why you are visiting and to tell you about Dundalk. The personal touch certainly adds to the experience and helps you embrace the town. There are a number of take away places for chips, pizza, Chinese, and Indian food which are on the main road and are within walking distance from the train station, Oriel Park, and The Imperial Hotel. Some of the local pubs will do food until 9pm. There are a few hotels in town, but the closest to the stadium and best value is at: The Imperial Hotel which is very friendly and comfortable, and only about a five minute walk from Oriel Park. A twin room costs 70 Euros which includes breakfast. Fans 5 The fans are very passionate, creating noise and singing their heart out before, during and after the match. Dundalk have one of the higher average attendances within the League of Ireland, with an average of 3,400 for home fixtures. The problem with higher profile games like a European tie, UEFA regulations mean the standing areas cannot be used which reduces the capacity. One song that tends to get all supporters involved is the tune of ‘When The Saints Go Marching In,’ when one section starts with “Oh when the whites,” and another replies “the Lilywhites,” both then join in singing “go marching in, oh when the whites go marching in!” Access 4 Entrance to all of the stadium is next to the Main Stand and the approach is from turning left, just off Carrickmacross Road. The area is well stewarded and the queues at the turnstiles move quickly. Oriel Park is ideally situated, a few minutes walk from the town centre, train station and is also on a regular bus route. For anyone taking the car, parking is limited at the ground, but street parking is available. It is busy on approach and may be worthwhile taking one of the side streets before it, as this will allow you an easier exit too. Tickets can only be bought directly from the club and the pricing is certainly fair enough. If you wish to sit in the Main Stand it is 20 Euros and 15 for a concession. For the rest of the areas within the ground it is 15 Euros for an adult, 10 Euros concession and 5 Euros for U12s. There is limited movement once you are inside the stadium as each designated area is monitored by stewards. I am assuming this is to prevent people paying the lower admission price from getting into the Main Stand. Return on Investment 4 Overall, Oriel Park offers a good return on your investment for sporting entertainment. With the hotel location in close proximity to the train station, stadium, pubs and food outlets, this is possibly one of the best venues you can get. With the price of juveniles being 5 Euros, it is exceptional value if any adult wished to take along their kids. Extras 4 The club shop offers the current kit and there are special deals on polo shirts, a book on the previous season’s title win and some stationery. The match programme is also well produced and good value at 4 Euros. Final Thoughts There are not many grounds or stadiums that will have a relaxed, friendly atmosphere with all you need merely minutes away as Oriel Park. The town is easily accessible by train or bus travelling from Dublin in the south or from Belfast in the north.

Photos by Richard Smith, Stadium Journey Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 3.14 Penny J. Fall Gym Cain Athletic Center 300 Washington Ave. Bldg# CACATH2 Chestertown, MD 21620 Washington College Shoremen website Year Opened: n/a Capacity: 500 To The Shore Washington College is a college in Chestertown, Maryland which was granted its charter in 1782. It is the 10th oldest college in the United States and one of the few to have received support from George Washington to honor him. The original desire was to have this college as the Eastern Shore Campus of a public “University of Maryland” with Annapolis’ St. John’s College the Western Shore counterpart. That obviously did not happen. Each year, Washington College awards the nation’s largest undergraduate literary prize. Since 1968, the Sophie Kerr Prize has been presented to one graduating senior who demonstrates the greatest literary promise. Washington has had sports since the 1800s. Men’s teams are known as the Shoremen; women’s teams are known as the Shorewomen. Many of the men's games here at Penny J. Fall Gym are doubleheaders so if you get there early you may want to catch the women's team in action as well. The Penny J. Fall Gym is the home playing venue for Washington College's volleyball and men's and women's basketball teams as well as the location of many athletic offices, the athletic training room, the equipment room, and several locker rooms. Penny J. Fall played an integral role in physical education instruction and the development of women’s athletics at Washington College. The gym was named in her honor in 2021. The gym is located within the larger Cain Athletic Center. Washington College participates in Division III sports as part of the Centennial Conference. Food & Beverage 1 There is no permanent food stand or any other options for sale at the gym. There does look like a former food stand is used just for storage now. There may be small options for sale in the lobby as well as there being a vending machine location. Atmosphere 4 This is a small typical gym for the schools of the Centennial Conference. Think of a high school type gym with two main bleachers and a smaller set along one of the baselines. There are some offices above the action with windows down to the floor. We did see some people watching the game from up there. Because of the small size, the gym can fill quickly and get loud. It has a nice vibrant atmosphere for a small college program like this. Neighborhood 4 Chestertown is a town and county seat of around 5,000 in Kent County, Maryland, and is located on what is known as Maryland’s Eastern Shore. It is 1.5 hours from Baltimore and Philadelphia. The nearby downtown district of Chestertown is full of history and sites for visitors, along with some nice shopping and dining. BAD Alfred’s Distilling, the Evergrain Bread Company, and Play It Again Sam are good spots for dining. Check out the High Street Town Dock and see if there are any charter boat trips through companies such as the Chester River Packet Company. Wilmer Park and the nearby area around the Hodson Boathouse at Washington College make for some nice waterside walking on a nice day. Fans 4 The fans fill the small gym well and create a good atmosphere for small college sports. Access 3 The actual town of Chestertown is not an issue getting around and accessing, but the problem is how isolated from major urban areas the town and college are. You will have to go way out of your way to visit Washington College. There may also not be much parking on campus as it is a historic campus and if there are many events going on, the available spots could be hard to find. Leave yourself plenty of time to find a good spot. The North Commons area may be a good place to start, but make sure to follow parking guidelines, especially for weekday events during regular school semesters. Return on Investment 5 Games are free, so the value is very good. Most of the games, such as the one we attended, are men's and women's doubleheaders so you get twice the action for that free admission. Extras 1 Not many extras, but the athletic hall of fame in the lobby offers some interesting reading at halftime. Final Thoughts The Penny J. Fall Gym is a small place but offers a nice sporting atmosphere for fans who are in the area.

Long before Paddy Boom ( @pboomnyc ) drummed for the Scissor Sisters, he was a diehard Red Sox fan. Paddy took a few minutes away from his record emporium in the Catskills ( @ boomandbloomrecords ) to talk about his favorite baseball team. STADIUM JOURNEY: You were a Westchester, New York kid in the heart of Yankees territory. How'd you start rooting for the Sox? Did other kids give you a hard time?  PADDY BOOM: I was born in Boston, so by default, I was rooting for the Red Sox. We moved to Chappaqua, New York, when I was a toddler. At the time, I didn't get much flack. It was playful ribbing. I was extremely passionate about baseball for a period of about five years. STADIUM JOURNEY: What do you recall about those 70s Sox teams? What memories stand out? PADDY BOOM: When I was deep into the game, I knew what time games were on TV, and I often rushed home to get sucked into the adrenaline buzz of live action. I was a big fan during the mid to late 70s.  Don Zimmer was coaching the Bosox. As a kid I was fascinated how Zim had a metal plate in his head. I recall the stoic-poker-faced Zimmer was a stark contrast to the bratty ways of Yankees coach Billy Martin, who seemed to always be bouncing out of the dugout to scream at an umpire at the drop of a hat. At the time, Boston had Jim Rice, Dave Evans, Carlton Fisk, Carl Yastremski, Louis Tiant, Dennis Eckersley, to name a few. I was a pitcher and tried to copy pitcher Tiant’s classic, unorthodox, swivel-pivot windup. As per the Yankees, Reggie. Jackson was huge, Roy White, Dave Winfield, Craig Nettles, Willie Randolph. I recall Dent hitting a crucial home run over the Green Monster in 1978 to put Boston out in an afternoon playoff game. I vividly recall the game when Reggie Jackson’s new Reggie Bar was given out free at entry and thousands of the candy bars were thrown on the field, delaying the game when Reggie hit a homer. I was super bummed when Yankees catcher Thurman Munson died in that plane crash in August 1979. Oddly enough, my swim team coach at the time at the Boys Club in Mount Kisco, New York, was Dennis Munson, Thurman’s cousin. So when Thurman died, it really hit home as the swim team was connected to the incident. My stepfather had season tickets to Yankees games for a few years, so we checked out as much as we could. On one occasion, the well-dressed guys in front of us at the stadium were firing up a bowl of ganja and offered it to my dad to pass around. He declined, but I was curious. STADIUM JOURNEY: What do you recall about the Red Sox-Yankees rivalry? How intense was it? PADDY BOOM: The classic Boston, New York rivalry was going strong in the late 70s. I saw a Red Sox-Yankees matchup in which Boston upset the Yanks in extra innings. That night my dad had bought me a Boston pennant, and I was waving it around in the back window of the car as we were slowly making our way out of the packed parking lot. My father flipped out and said, “stop waving the pennant and put it away. Someone’s gonna smash the window”. It was that fierce. STADIUM JOURNEY: Did you make any treks to Fenway?  How about the House that Ruth Built? PADDY BOOM: Sadly to this day, I have yet to go to Fenway. It's a real travesty. The closest I’ve been to the Green Monster is just outside Fenway on Lansdowne Street. That’s where the music venues line the street on the backside of the Green Monster. I played Mama Kin, owned by Aerosmith, and Bill's Bar back in the 90’s. My stepfather had Yankee season tickets for a few seasons, and it was a pretty quick 45-minute drive to Yankee Stadium. I went to the original stadium a whole slew of times before it was torn down. The area around Yankee Stadium, in the late 70’s Bronx was super seedy. It felt like another world compared to suburban Westchester. All sorts of sketchy bootleg vendors were hawking game merchandise. I had a thing for the fake autographed balls. The awe-inspiring feeling of walking into the stadium and finding my seat amidst all these strange faces was an education in the power of the spectacle of the game. Seeing the trajectory and arcs created by the balls flying through air in person is no comparison to TV. The glow of the field during night games, and the 3D action on the field was mesmerizing. Getting autographs during the pre-game warm was thrilling too. It didn't matter who the player was but just getting their attention to get an autograph felt like magic. STADIUM JOURNEY: Did you play a lot of baseball growing up or were you strictly an enthusiastic spectator?PADDY BOOM: I loved playing baseball and did it for a whole bunch of years, starting in little league. My stepfather was a coach for one of my teams in middle school. I was a decent pitcher and played second base but never star material. I was a late bloomer and was quite small for my age for years. I'm lefty, but bat righty and throw righty too, which is weird. In seventh grade, I had a really bad accident while pitching a game. I had a head-on collision with the catcher going for a pop-up foul ball in which I lost a few teeth and had 17 stitches in the roof of my mouth. He was wearing the mask, so when our faces collided, the bar protecting his mouth went right through mine. The ball goes up and next thing you know, lights out. I see one of my teeth fall on the ground and my mother screaming, blood everywhere. I get whisked into the back of my mom's friend's suburban wagon, and I can just remember looking out the window, staring at the trees going by and wondering what the hell just happened to my face. I was in tons of pain. I had to wait in an emergency room for hours. I looked like the villain "Jaws" from the James Bond Moonraker movie. My face swelled up really bad. Sophomore year I tried out for the baseball team but didn't make the cut. That was the end of my interest.   Stay tuned for Part 2 of Paddy Boom Loves The 70s Red Sox.