Catch a Game at One of California’s Oldest Ballparks

There's nothing quite like the start of baseball season. Just the mere mention of America's Pastime brings to mind the crack of the bat, the mighty roar of the crowd, and the smell of hot dogs, popcorn, and peanuts.

Baseball season strikes a chord in even the most casual of fans. And one of the best ways to experience baseball in California is through the historic stadiums that are as much a part of the game as the players themselves. So read on to discover our 101 guide to California’s oldest ballparks.

1. Dodger Stadium

Dodger Stadium is situated in the Elysian Park neighborhood of Los Angeles.  The stadium has many claims to fame, not only is it the home stadium of Los Angeles Dodgers, but it is also the oldest ballpark west of the Mississippi River and the largest baseball stadium in the world.

Although the stadium was built in 1962, it remains one of baseball's most-loved parks, and its prime location overlooking the sprawling City of Angels offers breathtaking sights that every baseball fan should experience at least once in their lifetime.c

2. Angel Stadium of Anaheim

Angel Stadium of Anaheim was built as a baseball-only park in 1966, but the Los Angeles Rams began playing football here back in the 1980s. Today, this world-class venue is home to the MLB World Champion Angels and the American League West Division Champion. It also hosts a multitude of other events such as Champions Indoor Football, concerts, and monster truck shows. 

While the stadium doesn't offer the bells and whistles of the newer ballparks, it does deliver a decidedly retro charm. In its day, after all, it was hip and ahead of its time, as demonstrated by the 230-foot-tall ‘Big A’ red metal sign, which once stood tall in the left field and lit up when the Angels won. Today the sign hangs in the parking lot but remains a lighted beacon that declares victory for the team, whether at home or on the road.

3. LA Memorial Coliseum

LA Memorial Coliseum is a multi-purpose stadium located in the Exposition Park area of Los Angeles. Built in 1966, The Coliseum was home to the Los Angeles Rams of the National Football League from the 1940s to the 1970s.  Today the stadium plays host to a multitude of concerts, events, and large gatherings, and serves as a home for the Oakland Athletics. What’s more, it is the only venue in the world to play host to two Olympic Games, two Super Bowls and one World Series.

When you’ve finished catching a game, why not hop aboard the nearby San Francisco Bay Ferry and tour the Los Angeles area on a scenic, relaxing ride.

4. Oracle Park

As one of the new kids on the block, this San Francisco ball field was built after an earthquake damaged the iconic Candlestick Park, the original home stadium of the San Francisco Giants, who played here from the 1960s to the 1990s.

Opened in 2000, Oracle Park has been the home of the San Francisco Giants and was designed with fans in mind, with every seat facing home plate. The stadium is located at 24 Wille Mays Plaza, which pays tribute to the great No. 24, Willie Mays Aikens.

Beyond the fence of the stadium is a cove that is a popular spot for kayaking and canoeing. Paddlers can catch a glimpse of a game in action or wait for home-run balls to plop down into the water.

5. Petco Park

Built in 2004, Petco Park is the latest addition to California's ballparks. Aside from being home to the San Diego Padres, it also features a green space, known as Park at the Park where fans can catch a glimpse of the game. Off-season, the park serves as a space where locals can relax and hang out.

After catching a game of the San Diego Padres in action, head to Gaslamp Quarter, a lively neighborhood in downtown San Diego, where you can take your pick of dozens of trendy restaurants.

Few things compare to seeing a home run in The Golden State. What California baseball park is on your bucket list? Tell us about it on Facebook.