In this article, we take a trip through time as we explore the oldest MLB stadiums in history. These ballparks have witnessed the evolution of baseball and hold a special place in fans’ hearts. From Fenway Park, the oldest active MLB stadium, to Dodger Stadium on the West Coast, these stadiums continue to inspire baseball fans.
Key Takeaways
- Fenway Park is the oldest active MLB stadium and home to the Boston Red Sox.
- Wrigley Field, the second-oldest MLB stadium, is home to the Chicago Cubs.
- Dodger Stadium, the third-oldest MLB stadium, is situated in Los Angeles, California.
- Angel Stadium, located in Anaheim, California, has a seating capacity of over 45,000.
- Tiger Stadium, no longer in use, was the home of the Detroit Tigers for over 100 years.
Fenway Park: The Oldest MLB Stadium Still in Use
Fenway Park, located in Boston, Massachusetts, holds the title of being the oldest MLB stadium still in use today. Since opening its doors in 1912, Fenway Park has been the home to the Boston Red Sox. With a seating capacity of over 37,000, this iconic stadium has hosted countless baseball games that have become an integral part of the sport’s history.
One of Fenway Park’s most recognizable features is the Green Monster, a 37-foot wall located in left field that can be seen from different parts of the city. This unique feature has been an integral part of the stadium’s history and has played a significant role in shaping its identity.
Pesky’s Pole, named after former Red Sox player Johnny Pesky, is another distinctive feature of Fenway Park. This right field foul pole originally stood at 23 feet before being raised to 37 feet to match the height of the Green Monster.
Playing at Fenway Park is a dream come true for many aspiring baseball players who dream of stepping up to the plate and hitting a home run. Over the years, the stadium has been the site of many memorable moments, including the 2004 Red Sox World Series victory that ended the team’s 86-year championship drought.
Today, Fenway Park stands as a testament to the sport’s enduring legacy and the special place it holds in the hearts of baseball fans. As a current Major League Baseball stadium and one of the most historic ballparks in the world, Fenway Park is a must-visit destination for any true baseball enthusiast.
Related:Yankee Stadium Bag Policy
Wrigley Field: A Century of Baseball Tradition
Wrigley Field, one of the oldest MLB ballparks, dates back to 1914 and is situated in Chicago, Illinois. It is the second-oldest stadium in the MLB and the oldest in the National League. Its age and history make it a historic ballpark that has withstood the test of time. Its ivy-covered walls, iconic marquee, and rooftop seats have become synonymous with the Chicago Cubs and have earned a special place in the hearts of baseball fans nationwide.
The home field of the Chicago Cubs, Wrigley Field has seen the likes of countless famous baseball players like Ernie Banks and Sammy Sosa, adding to its history and legacy. The park’s seating capacity is currently at over 41,000, with the iconic ivy providing a unique backdrop to the games.
| Year Opened | Team | Capacity |
|---|---|---|
| 1914 | Chicago Cubs | 41,649 |
Wrigley Field’s iconic features and long-standing history have made it an important landmark in Chicago and a destination for baseball fans from all over the world. It remains a true symbol of baseball tradition and continues to inspire generations of fans young and old.
Dodger Stadium: West Coast Baseball Legacy
Dodger Stadium, located in Los Angeles, California, has a rich history as the oldest MLB ballpark on the west coast. Since its opening in 1962, Dodger Stadium has been the proud home of the Los Angeles Dodgers, one of the most celebrated teams in Major League Baseball.
With a seating capacity of over 56,000, Dodger Stadium stands as a modernist marvel, one of the most visually impressive venues in all of baseball. The stadium’s unique design captures the surrounding natural beauty of Los Angeles, with picturesque views of the San Gabriel Mountains.
Dodger Stadium has been the scene of countless memorable baseball moments over the years, including Kirk Gibson’s legendary home run in the 1988 World Series. Dodgers fans continue to flock to the stadium to celebrate their team and enjoy this historic venue.
Angel Stadium: A Historic Venue in Orange County
Angel Stadium, located in Anaheim, California, is one of the oldest MLB ballparks in the country. Originally built as Anaheim Stadium in 1966, it became the home of the Los Angeles Angels (formerly known as the California Angels) in the same year. With a seating capacity of over 45,000, Angel Stadium has been the stage for countless memorable baseball moments over the decades.
Los Angeles Angels
The Los Angeles Angels are a Major League Baseball team that plays at Angel Stadium. Established in 1961 as an expansion team, the Angels have won one World Series championship, one American League pennant, and ten division titles. Some of the most iconic players to wear the Angels’ uniform include Nolan Ryan, Rod Carew, and Mike Trout.
Seating Capacity
Angel Stadium has a seating capacity of 45,517, which makes it the fourth-largest stadium in the MLB. The stadium’s layout is unique, with the outfield wall containing a terraced batter’s eye, which gives the stadium a signature look. Angel Stadium is also one of the few outdoor ballparks in the country to have a view of the surrounding mountains.
The History of Angel Stadium
Over the years, Angel Stadium has gone through numerous changes and renovations. In 1980, the scoreboard was replaced with a state-of-the-art video display board. In 1996, the stadium underwent an extensive renovation that added luxury suites, a restaurant, and a new scoreboard. More recently, during the 2018-2019 offseason, the stadium received a major facelift, including new video and sound systems, upgraded seating, and improved food and beverage options.
Tiger Stadium: A Remnant of Baseball’s Past
Although no longer in use, Tiger Stadium is one of the oldest MLB ballparks with a rich history that is hard to forget. Located in Detroit, Michigan, Tiger Stadium was built in 1912, marking it as one of the oldest Major League Baseball fields.
Tiger Stadium was the home of the Detroit Tigers for over 100 years, and during its heyday, it was the perfect backdrop for numerous legendary baseball moments. Even though Tiger Stadium no longer hosts Major League Baseball games, baseball enthusiasts still admire it for preserving the nostalgia of America’s favorite pastime.
Despite being closed for over two decades, Tiger Stadium continues to be a historic ballpark, bringing together passionate fans from around Detroit to relive memories and share stories of baseball’s past. As a symbol of Detroit’s rich baseball history, Tiger Stadium’s legacy remains strong, a constant reminder of its place in America’s sports history.
Ballparks of the Past: Boston Braves and Weeghman Park
As we delve into the history of the oldest MLB stadiums, we cannot overlook the ballparks of the past. The Boston Braves’ home field was Braves Field, which opened in 1915 and was the oldest active stadium until Fenway Park was built. It boasted a seating capacity of 40,000 and was home to the Braves until they moved to Milwaukee in 1953. Braves Field remains a cherished symbol of baseball history in Boston.
| Stadium | Location | Opening Year | Seating Capacity |
|---|---|---|---|
| Braves Field | Boston, Massachusetts | 1915 | 40,000 |
| Weeghman Park | Chicago, Illinois | 1914 | 14,000 |
Weeghman Park, also known as Wrigley Field, was one of the oldest ballparks in Major League Baseball. It opened in 1914 as the home of the Chicago Whales, and ultimately became the iconic Wrigley Field in 1927. With its iconic ivy-covered walls, hand-turned scoreboard, and intimate atmosphere, Wrigley Field is a symbol of baseball tradition and nostalgia.
“It isn’t necessarily Boston or Chicago that I’m nostalgic for, it’s the little wonders that you just couldn’t fabricate.” – Michael Chabon, Manhood for Amateurs
The Evolution of MLB Ballparks: From Riverfront Stadium to RFK Stadium
As Major League Baseball has grown and evolved over the years, new ballparks have replaced the older ones. Two such ballparks that were significant additions to the MLB landscape were Riverfront Stadium and RFK Stadium.
| Stadium | City | Opened | Seating Capacity | Tenants |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Riverfront Stadium | Cincinnati, Ohio | 1970 | 52,952 | Cincinnati Reds |
| RFK Stadium | Washington, D.C. | 1961 | 55,684 | Washington Senators, Washington Nationals |
Riverfront Stadium, with a seating capacity of over 52,000, was the home of the Cincinnati Reds from 1970 to 2002. Its unique circular shape and all-weather playing surface made it a popular destination for MLB games and other events.
RFK Stadium, located in Washington, D.C., was home to the Washington Senators from 1961 to 1971 and later the Washington Nationals from 2005 to 2007. Its seating capacity of over 55,000 made it one of the largest stadiums in the country. RFK Stadium played a key role in bringing baseball back to D.C. after a 33-year absence.
While both Riverfront and RFK Stadiums are no longer in use, they played an important part in the history and development of Major League Baseball. As new ballparks continue to be built, baseball fans can appreciate the legacy and impact of these iconic stadiums.
RIVERFRONT STADIUM
ROBERT F. KENNEDY STADIUM
Conclusion
In conclusion, the oldest MLB stadiums have a rich history and iconic features that make them must-visit destinations for baseball enthusiasts. Fenway Park, Wrigley Field, Dodger Stadium, Angel Stadium, Tiger Stadium, Boston Braves’ Braves Field, and Weeghman Park are all part of baseball’s past and offer glimpses into the evolution of the sport.
Despite the emergence of new ballparks like Riverfront Stadium and RFK Stadium, these oldest MLB ballparks remain timeless and continue to inspire fans and connect generations through the love of America’s pastime. While some are still in use, others have become nostalgic relics, but all have made significant contributions to baseball’s enduring legacy.
Baseball fans can appreciate the artistry and architecture of these ballparks, while also witnessing the triumphs and tribulations of countless baseball teams. The love of the game is palpable in these historic venues, and they serve as reminders of why we fell in love with baseball in the first place. So come take a tour of these iconic ballparks and experience the magic of baseball history firsthand.
FAQ
What is the oldest MLB stadium still in use?
The oldest MLB stadium still in use is Fenway Park, located in Boston, Massachusetts.
When did Fenway Park open?
Fenway Park opened in 1912.
Which team plays at Fenway Park?
The Boston Red Sox currently play their home games at Fenway Park.
What is the seating capacity of Fenway Park?
Fenway Park has a seating capacity of over 37,000.
What is the second-oldest MLB stadium?
The second-oldest MLB stadium is Wrigley Field, located in Chicago, Illinois.
When was Wrigley Field built?
Wrigley Field was built in 1914.
Which team calls Wrigley Field home?
The Chicago Cubs play their home games at Wrigley Field.
What are some iconic features of Wrigley Field?
Wrigley Field is known for its ivy-covered walls, iconic marquee, and rooftop seats.
Which is the third-oldest MLB stadium?
Dodger Stadium, located in Los Angeles, California, is the third-oldest MLB stadium.
When did Dodger Stadium open?
Dodger Stadium opened in 1962.
Which team is the primary tenant of Dodger Stadium?
The Los Angeles Dodgers are the primary tenants of Dodger Stadium.
Where is Angel Stadium located?
Angel Stadium is located in Anaheim, California.
When was Angel Stadium originally built?
Angel Stadium was originally built in 1966 as Anaheim Stadium.
What is the seating capacity of Angel Stadium?
Angel Stadium has a seating capacity of over 45,000.
Which team plays their home games at Angel Stadium?
The Los Angeles Angels (formerly known as the California Angels) play their home games at Angel Stadium.
Is Tiger Stadium still in use?
No, Tiger Stadium is no longer in use.
Where was Tiger Stadium located?
Tiger Stadium was located in Detroit, Michigan.
When was Tiger Stadium built?
Tiger Stadium was built in 1912.
What were some notable features of Tiger Stadium?
Tiger Stadium was known for its historic ambiance and nostalgic charm.
What are some other historic ballparks?
Other historic ballparks include Braves Field, the original home of the Boston Braves, and Weeghman Park, which later became Wrigley Field.
When did Braves Field and Weeghman Park open?
Braves Field opened in 1915, and Weeghman Park opened in 1914.
What are some other notable MLB ballparks?
Riverfront Stadium, which opened in 1970 in Cincinnati, Ohio, and RFK Stadium, which opened in 1961 in Washington, D.C., are notable MLB ballparks that are no longer in use.
What is the importance of these ballparks in MLB history?
These ballparks played a significant role in the growth and popularity of Major League Baseball.