Trip Advisor, which offers traveler reviews and bills itself as the “world’s largest travel site”, has announced the top 10 ballparks in the U.S., according to the TripAdvisor Popularity Index.
Tops on the list is a park that’s been far more captivating than the team that plays there: PNC Park in Pittsburgh, home of the Pirates. Here’s how the votes came in:
1. PNC Park, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Perched along the Allegheny River, this renowned ballpark features spectacular sights of the Steel City skyline and the beautiful Clemente Bridge. A unique two-level ballpark that opened in 2001, PNC provides an intimate setting and spectacular views and sightlines from anywhere in the stadium. A TripAdvisor traveler commented, “The views of the city from the ballpark are beautiful; great food and beer selections.”
2. AT&T Park, San Francisco, California
Travelers visiting AT&T Park can take in amazing views of the San Francisco Bay in this stunning ballyard that opened in 2000. Visitors wait for home run balls to be hit into McCovey Cove, enjoy tasty local fare and beverages and can visit the 50-by-50 foot replica of the park designed for children. “Even if you don’t like baseball, you must take in a game here,” said a TripAdvisor traveler.
3. Oriole Park at Camden Yards, Baltimore, Maryland
A modern classic and first of the “retro parks,” Camden Yards is located blocks from Inner Harbor and has been the popular home to Baltimore’s big league team since 1992. Before the game, travelers can explore Eutaw Street where more than 60 home runs have landed, and marvel at the impressive B&O Warehouse in right field, claimed to be the longest brick building on the East Coast. A TripAdvisor traveler said, “Just an amazing ballpark truly the total package for going to a baseball game.”
4. Fenway Park, Boston, Massachusetts
In the heart of Boston, baseball fans will enjoy a game at America’s oldest ballpark. Since 1912, this “lyric little bandbox,” as described by John Updike, has been home to Boston’s beloved “local nine” and is famous for the Green Monster wall in left field, atop which visitors can now enjoy seeing games. “Absolutely loved watching our first baseball game at Fenway! Amazing fans, great beer and a good time,” commented a TripAdvisor traveler.
5. Busch Stadium, St. Louis, Missouri
Often referred to as “New Busch Stadium,” this gorgeous park opened in 2006 and allows baseball fans to enjoy the game against the backdrop of the Gateway Arch and St. Louis skyline. Those big on game day goodies can indulge in many mouthwatering local foods including everything from turkey legs to pulled pork. “If you stroll around the park, you will find that Busch Stadium is an experience all in itself,” said one TripAdvisor traveler.
6. Citizens Bank Park, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
With its lowered field 23 feet below street level and bowl-style seating, visitors enjoy magnificent sightlines for the game as well as stunning views of the city skyline. At this stunning new stadium that opened in 2004, fans can partake in a local favorite Philly cheesesteak and catch a glimpse of the players warming up from the bullpen viewing platform. A TripAdvisor traveler commented, “I’ve traveled around the country visiting baseball parks, and nothing quite compares.”
7. Petco Park, San Diego, California
Travelers visiting “America’s Finest City” are invited to explore this seaside ballpark, which complements the beauty of the surrounding Pacific Ocean. Since opening its gates in 2004, Petco Park has allowed fans to cheer from one of the site’s trademark dark blue seats or its grass-covered seating area known as “The Park at the Park”. A TripAdvisor traveler noted, “The atmosphere is the best, the fans are super cool and the view is simply spectacular.”
8. Kauffman Stadium, Kansas City, Missouri
Celebrating its 40th anniversary this year, Kauffman Stadium claims to have hosted more than 70 million baseball enthusiasts since 1973. Known best for its 322-foot illuminated fountain and waterfall display, Kauffman Stadium is a fan favorite. “Every seat is a good seat, the fountains are iconic, and the outfield activities for kids are great,” commented a TripAdvisor traveler.
9. Rangers Ballpark in Arlington, Arlington, Texas
With an asymmetrical natural grass field, this 270-acre sports complex was designed to resemble the iconic ballparks of the early 20th century. Travelers will enjoy state-of-the-art amenities, as the stadium features a premium sound system equipped with 1,200 speakers throughout the venue. A TripAdvisor traveler noted, “It is one of the few stadiums that have tried to make you feel like the old time major league stadium still exists.”
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