This park opened in 1992 and pays homage to the early days of baseball. With its graceful wrought iron embellishments and brick facade, Oriole Park set the new standard for modern ballparks and is still considered the best park in the country by purists. Architects incorporated the B&O Railroad warehouse into the design of the park, creating a pedestrian area called Eutaw Street where fans can stroll before and after the game. Players who actually hit the warehouse with a home run receive a commemorative plaque on the spot. For a relatively new park, Oriole Park has its share of baseball history. On September 6, 1995 Cal Ripken broke Lou Gehrig's record of 2,130 consecutive games, one of baseball's most treasured records.
Fenway Park, Boston
Fenway is one of only a few remaining original ballparks built in the early 1900s. With its distinctive "Green Monster" left field wall, Fenway presents a challenge to even the best hitters in the game. Ballpark aficionados will appreciate the manual scoreboard that has been used since the park was built in 1912 and the only ladder in play in the major leagues. History buffs will revel in visiting a park that has been home to such baseball greats as Cy Young, Ted Williams, Carlton Fisk and Carl Yastrzemski. At one time, Fenway was also host to the longest drought in World Series history however, the Red Sox finally won the Series in 2004.
Wrigley Field, Chicago
Another historic ballpark, Wrigley Field hosts the Chicago Cubs, the "lovable losers" of baseball. Wrigley is more famous for the historic moments that have happened there than for its comfort or amenities. In fact, the ballpark did not have outdoor lighting until 1988. But it was the site of Babe Ruth's famous "called home run" in 1932 and Kerry Wood's 20 strikeout game in 1998. Wrigley is the home of many quirky traditions including flying a flag bearing a "W" or an "L" atop the scoreboard at the conclusion of every game.
AT&T Park, San Francisco
Widely considered the best ballpark in the country by fans and players alike, AT&T Park (formerly Pac Bell Park) was built in 2000. Privately funded by baseball fan and Giant's team owner Peter Magowan, AT&T Park offers fans spectacular views of San Francisco, an innovative children's play area and the best public transportation access in the major leagues. Home runs splash into San Francisco Bay where boaters and kayakers float, listening to the game.
