California Ballparks: 26 Must-See Baseball Stadiums

Jake Cain

Jake Cain

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Last Updated: March 9th, 2023 by Jake Cain

California is home to not one, not two, but five Major League Baseball teams. But that’s just the beginning.

The Golden State is also packed with minor league and college stadiums, each with its unique charm and character. And let’s not forget about the views!

From the towering palm trees at Dodger Stadium to the stunning San Francisco Bay backdrop at Oracle Park, there’s nothing quite like watching a game in California.

Maybe you’ll be lucky enough to watch a no-hitter at Dodger Stadium – the ballpark has already seen 13 of them over the years!

Whichever California MLB team you’re pulling for, there’s no denying that the ballparks in this state simply mustn’t be missed.

Angel Stadium of Anaheim

Angel Stadium, Anaheim, California

Angel Stadium of Anaheim is a historic baseball stadium located in Anaheim, California.

It has been the home of the Los Angeles Angels of Major League Baseball (MLB) since its opening in 1966, making it one of the oldest active ballparks in the majors.

The stadium is often referred to by its nickname “The Big A,” which was coined by Herald Examiner Sports Editor, Bud Furillo.

In addition to being a baseball stadium, Angel Stadium of Anaheim has also served as the home of the Los Angeles Rams of the National Football League (NFL) from 1980 to 1994.

This versatility has made the stadium a popular venue for a variety of events, including the All-Star Game, which it hosted three times in 1967, 1989, and 2010.

With its rich history and iconic nickname, Angel Stadium of Anaheim is a must-visit destination for sports fans and history buffs alike.

Anteater Ballpark

Anteater Ballpark, also known as Cicerone Field, is a baseball stadium situated on the campus of the University of California, Irvine in Irvine, California.

Opened in 2002, it has been the home of the UC Irvine Anteaters baseball team ever since. The stadium has a seating capacity of 908, with an additional 2,500 people accommodated on the grass berm.

Named after the former university chancellor Ralph J. Cicerone, Anteater Ballpark is known for its outstanding facilities and beautiful design.

The stadium has hosted a number of high-profile baseball events, including the NCAA Regionals in 2008 and 2011.

Whether you’re a die-hard Anteaters fan or simply a lover of baseball, Anteater Ballpark is a fantastic place to watch a game and experience the thrilling atmosphere of college baseball.

Banner Island Ballpark

Banner Island Ballpark is a state-of-the-art baseball stadium located in Stockton, California.

It was opened in 2005 and has since been the home field of the Stockton Ports, a minor league affiliate of the Oakland Athletics.

The stadium has a seating capacity of 5,200 people, with 4,200 fixed seats, making it a rousing place to catch a game and enjoy the atmosphere.

The stadium is part of a larger revitalization project for the downtown Stockton waterfront, which includes the Stockton Arena and a waterfront park. The goal of the project is to create a vibrant and exciting events center that will attract visitors and residents alike.

The stadium was built with the latest technology and amenities, making it a splendid place to catch a game and enjoy the sights and sounds of the Stockton waterfront.

Blair Field

Blair Field is a historic stadium in Long Beach, California. It was originally opened in 1956 and has been a staple in the community for over six decades.

The stadium is primarily used for baseball and has a seating capacity of 3,238 people. It is named after Frank Blair, who was the sports editor for the Long Beach Press-Telegram newspaper for 32 years.

The stadium has a rich history and has been the home to many memorable moments in baseball.

Over the years, Blair Field has undergone several renovations to maintain its status as one of the premier baseball stadiums in California. Despite its age, the stadium still boasts modern amenities and provides a welcoming experience for fans.

With its long history, picturesque setting, and exciting atmosphere, it’s no wonder why so many people consider it to be one of the best stadiums in the state.

Chukchansi Park

Fresno - Chukchansi Park

Chukchansi Park, formerly known as Grizzlies Stadium, is an impressive baseball stadium in the heart of Fresno, California.

The stadium was completed in 2002 and was designed to be an anchor in the rehabilitation of the downtown area. The first game was played on May 1, 2002, and since then, it has been the home of Minor League Baseball’s Fresno Grizzlies.

The stadium is not just limited to baseball games, it is also used for music concerts, motocross events, and high school football games.

The stadium is city-owned and is located in the Central Business District Loop, which makes it easily accessible for everyone.

The design of the stadium was carefully planned to ensure that it would be an attractive addition to the downtown area and to encourage other commercial development in the area.

The stadium has a seating capacity of over 12,500 and is equipped with all the modern amenities that one would expect from a top-notch stadium.

Whether you’re a fan of baseball or music, or just looking for an exciting day out, Chukchansi Park is the ideal spot to be.

Dedeaux Field

Dedeaux Field is a historic college baseball stadium located in Los Angeles, California. It is the home field of the USC Trojans of the Pac-12 Conference and has a seating capacity of 2,500.

The stadium was opened 49 years ago in 1974, the same year USC won its record fifth consecutive College World Series title.

It is named after the legendary USC Trojans head coach, Rod Dedeaux, who led the team from 1942 until his retirement in 1986.

The elevation of the playing field at Dedeaux Field is about 175 feet above sea level, providing a unique playing experience for the USC Trojans and their opponents.

The previous venue for USC baseball was Bovard Field, which was located about 500 yards to the southeast. Bovard Field’s home plate was situated in today’s E.F. Hutton Park and a large eucalyptus tree guarded the right field line.

The history and tradition of USC baseball are deeply ingrained in the fabric of Dedeaux Field, making it a must-loved destination for any baseball fan.

Dodger Stadium

L.A. Dodger Stadium

Dodger Stadium is a historic baseball stadium located in the Elysian Park neighborhood of Los Angeles, California. It is the home of Major League Baseball’s Los Angeles Dodgers and has been since its opening in 1962.

The stadium was built in less than three years at a cost of $23 million, which is equivalent to $206 million in today’s dollars.

It is the oldest ballpark in Major League Baseball west of the Mississippi River and the third-oldest overall, after Fenway Park in Boston and Wrigley Field in Chicago.

With a seating capacity of 56,000, Dodger Stadium is the largest baseball stadium in the world. It is often referred to as a “pitcher’s ballpark” due to its favorable conditions for pitchers.

Over the years, the stadium has seen 13 no-hitters, including two perfect games. The stadium’s rich history and its status as a pitcher’s paradise make it a legendary destination for any baseball fan.

Whether you’re a die-hard Dodgers devotee or just a lover of the sport, Dodger Stadium is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Dobbins Stadium

Dobbins Stadium is a popular baseball stadium located in Davis, California. Since its opening in 1986, it has served as the home ground for the UC Davis Aggies baseball team.

With a seating capacity of 3,500, the stadium offers a fantastic view of the game to its visitors.

Apart from being a great spot for the Aggies’ games, Dobbins Stadium is also used as a venue for various other baseball events.

The stadium’s state-of-the-art facilities and picturesque location make it a sought-after destination for baseball enthusiasts in California.

Whether you’re a hardcore fan or simply looking for a fun outing, Dobbins Stadium is a lovely place to catch a game.

The Epicenter

The Epicenter, located in Rancho Cucamonga, is a stadium that is primarily used for baseball games.

It is the home field of the Rancho Cucamonga Quakes minor league baseball team and has been serving as their home ground since its opening on April 3, 1993.

With a seating capacity of 6,588 people, the stadium has long been a beloved venue for baseball fans in the area.

The stadium, which was originally known as the City of Rancho Cucamonga Epicenter Entertainment & Sports Complex, has a rich history of hosting exciting baseball games.

Over the years, the Quakes have broken a number of stadium attendance records while playing home games at The Epicenter.

With its nickname “The Epicenter”, the stadium truly lives up to its name as the center of excitement and entertainment for baseball fans in Rancho Cucamonga.

Evans Diamond

Spring Training II

Evans Diamond is a historic college baseball park located on the campus of the University of California in Berkeley, California.

With a seating capacity of 2,500, it has been the home field of the California Golden Bears of the Pac-12 Conference for 90 years, since its opening in 1933.

The stadium is situated in the UC sports complex at the southwest corner of campus, surrounded by other athletic facilities such as George C. Edwards Stadium to the west and Haas Pavilion to the east.

The atmosphere at Evans Diamond is truly unique, with its rich history and tight-knit community of fans and players. Whether you’re a zealous Golden Bears fan or just a casual spectator, you’ll feel right at home at this charming and intimate stadium.

From the crack of the bat to the roar of the crowd, there’s a palpable energy in the air that makes every game at Evans Diamond a truly unforgettable experience.

Eddy D. Field Stadium

Eddy D. Field Stadium is a charming baseball park that serves as the home of the Pepperdine University Waves baseball team.

Located in Malibu, California, it was originally built in 1973 but underwent renovations in 1980 and 1999, resulting in a capacity of up to 2,000 spectators, all of whom have box seats.

Its stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, Catalina Island, and the Santa Monica Mountains have garnered the attention of college baseball fans, with some even calling it the best college baseball stadium in Division I baseball.

College baseball writer Eric Sorenson of CBSSN has consistently ranked Eddy D. Field Stadium as the best college baseball stadium. The stadium’s scenic location, coupled with its excellent facilities, has made it a tremendous venue for college baseball games.

The Waves’ success on the field, combined with the stadium’s distinctive and beautiful setting, has helped to create a memorable game-day experience for fans and players alike.

Goodwin Field

Goodwin Field is a gorgeous baseball park located in Fullerton, California.

It is situated on the campus of California State University, Fullerton, and is primarily the home field of the CSUF Titans, who are four-time national champions in the NCAA’s Big West Conference.

With a seating capacity of 3,500, Goodwin Field is a stirring place to catch a game and enjoy the exhilaration of college baseball.

The stadium is named after Jerry and Merilyn Goodwin, who made a generous donation of $1 million towards a $3 million campaign for major renovations.

This donation helped to transform Goodwin Field into the contemporary facility it is today, with modern amenities and an immersive atmosphere for fans.

Whether you’re a committed baseball fan or just looking to kick back and relax, Goodwin Field is a great place to be.

The Hangar

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The Hangar, located in Lancaster, California, is a baseball stadium that has a rich history and a unique legacy.

From its opening in 1996 to 2020, it was the home field of the Lancaster JetHawks, a now-defunct minor league team.

The stadium was originally named Clear Channel Stadium after a 10-year, $770,000 naming rights deal with Clear Channel Communications and the City of Lancaster.

However, the signage was removed in 2012 and the stadium was renamed The Hangar, its nickname since its opening, as well as Lancaster Municipal Stadium.

The Hangar is a premier facility in minor league baseball, offering a range of amenities to fans. With a seating capacity of 6,860, the stadium can accommodate over 7,000 fans and features slightly over 4,500 permanent full-chair stadium seats.

The stadium also has two expansive grass berm general admission areas for when all seats are sold out.

Additionally, the stadium boasts luxury skyboxes, a video message board, and an old-fashioned manual scoreboard, making it a unique and well-equipped place to watch a game.

The front entrance of the stadium is also home to a NASA F/A-18 Hornet, a nod to the area’s aerospace legacy.

Jackie Robinson Stadium

Jackie Robinson Stadium

Jackie Robinson Stadium is a historic college baseball park located in Los Angeles, California.

It is the home field of the UCLA Bruins of the Pac-12 Conference and has been serving as their home ground for 42 years now, since its opening in 1981.

The stadium is named after former Bruin athlete Jackie Robinson, who was the first African-American major league baseball player of the modern era.

With a seating capacity of only 1,820, it is the smallest ballpark in the conference, but it is rich in history and tradition.

The stadium is a testament to the legacy of Jackie Robinson and his impact on the sport of baseball. It is a place where future generations of UCLA baseball players can come and learn about the history of the game and the impact that Jackie Robinson had on it.

The stadium is also a place where fans can come and enjoy a game of baseball in a historic and intimate setting.

Whether you are a die-hard UCLA follower or just a lover of the sport, Jackie Robinson Stadium is a must-visit for anyone who is in Los Angeles.

John Thurman Field

Field of dreams

John Thurman Field is a historic stadium located in Modesto, California. It has been the home of the Modesto Nuts minor league baseball team since its construction in 1955.

The stadium has a seating capacity of 4,000 and is a popular destination for baseball fans in the area. The field was named after California State Assemblyman John E. Thurman, who was from Modesto, in recognition of his contributions to the community.

The stadium has undergone several renovations over the years to maintain its charm and provide a comfortable experience for fans.

Despite its age, John Thurman Field remains one of the most well-loved stadiums in the area and is a must-visit for any baseball fan.

Whether you’re a do-or-die Nuts fan or just a fairweather friend of the game, John Thurman Field is the ideal place to catch a game and enjoy the atmosphere of a classic American ballpark.

Lake Elsinore Diamond

Lake Elsinore Diamond

Lake Elsinore Diamond, also known as Storm Stadium, is a baseball park located in Lake Elsinore, California.

It is the home field of the Lake Elsinore Storm minor league baseball team and is primarily used for baseball games.

The field at the stadium is named after Pete Lehr, a former player. The stadium was built in 1994 and has a seating capacity of over 8,000 people, with 6,066 permanent seats.

The construction of Lake Elsinore Diamond was originally estimated to cost $8 million in 1992, but by the time of its completion, the cost had risen to more than $22 million.

Despite the increase in cost, the stadium has become a popular destination for local baseball fans.

With its spacious seating and modern facilities, Lake Elsinore Diamond is a marvelous place to catch a game and soak up the excitement of minor league baseball.

Oakland Coliseum

Oakland Coliseum, Oakland, California

The Oakland Coliseum, also known as RingCentral Coliseum, is a stadium in Oakland, California. It is part of the Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum Complex, which also includes the adjacent Oakland Arena.

The Coliseum is the home of the Oakland Athletics of Major League Baseball and has a seating capacity of up to 63,132, depending on its configuration.

The playing surface was dedicated as Rickey Henderson Field in honor of Major League Baseball Hall of Famer and former Athletics left fielder Rickey Henderson.

The Coliseum underwent a renovation in 1996, which added an upper deck known as “Mount Davis” by fans.

In 2006, the Athletics blocked off the entirety of the Coliseum’s third deck during its games to provide a more “intimate” environment, which artificially limited its capacity to 34,077, making it the smallest stadium in Major League Baseball.

However, in 2017, the Athletics began to reopen some of the sections in the third deck and open the Mount Davis deck for selected marquee games, making it the largest baseball stadium in the United States by capacity.

Oracle Park

Oracle Park, located in the SoMa neighborhood of San Francisco, is a Major League Baseball stadium that has been the home of the San Francisco Giants since 2000.

The stadium has undergone several name changes over the years, from Pacific Bell Park to SBC Park and AT&T Park, before finally being purchased by the Oracle Corporation in 2019 and renamed to its current name.

With 68 luxury suites, 5,200 club seats on the club level, and an additional 1,500 club seats at the field level behind home plate, Oracle Park offers a variety of seating options for fans to enjoy the game in comfort and style.

In addition to its impressive seating options, Oracle Park is known for its stunning views of the San Francisco Bay and its iconic McCovey Cove, where fans can watch home runs sail into the water.

The stadium also features a variety of dining options, including gourmet food stands and full-service restaurants, making it an attractive destination for both sports fans and foodies alike.

PETCO Park

Petco Park

Petco Park is a state-of-the-art baseball stadium located in the heart of downtown San Diego, California.

It is the home of Major League Baseball’s San Diego Padres and has become a popular venue for a variety of events, including concerts, soccer, golf, football, and rugby.

The stadium’s special design sets it apart from other ballparks built during the same era. Instead of the typical “retro-style” red brick and green seats, Petco Park is clad in Indian sandstone and stucco, with exposed steel painted white and dark blue fixed seats.

The design of Petco Park was carefully crafted to reflect the natural beauty of San Diego.

The sandy color of the stadium’s exterior is meant to evoke the cliffs and beaches of the city, while the blue seats are meant to represent the ocean and the white steel is meant to resemble the sails of boats on the nearby bay.

With a seating capacity of 40,209, Petco Park is a not-to-be-missed venue for sports fans and event-goers alike.

Whether you’re a die-hard Padres fan or just looking for a memorable experience, Petco Park is sure to deliver.

Raley Field

You can sort of see in the corner of this shot

Raley Field, located in West Sacramento, is a beautiful, modern ballpark stadium that is home to the Sacramento River Cats Minor League Baseball team.

The stadium was built on the site of old warehouses and rail yards and is directly adjacent to downtown Sacramento, making it a convenient and accessible location for fans.

With a permanent seating capacity of 10,624 and grass berms in both right and left fields, the stadium can accommodate up to 14,014 fans.

The stadium offers a range of seating options for fans, including 2,798 club seats and 750 seats in 36 suites. The Diamond Club behind home plate is a popular spot for fans, offering an exclusive viewing experience.

The stadium’s original capacity was 14,611, but it was decreased to 14,414 in 2005 with the addition of a party deck and further decreased in 2010 with the opening of the Diamond Club.

Recreation Park

Recreation Park in Visalia, California is a minor league baseball park that has a rich history and a unique charm.

With only 1,888 seats, it is the smallest MLB-affiliated ballpark in the United States, but it has undergone extensive renovations in 2003 and 2009 to expand its seating and improve its sports facilities.

The park is now home to the Visalia Rawhide, a minor league affiliate of the Arizona Diamondbacks, and is supported by a ten-year lease with the ballclub, the longest lease in franchise history.

The renovation of Recreation Park was completed in 2009 and included expanded seating on the third base side and an all-new grandstand.

The multimillion-dollar renovation was completed by the City of Visalia and has helped to modernize the park while still preserving its historic appeal.

The park is a popular destination for baseball fans and is known for its intimate atmosphere and uninterrupted views of the game.

Whether you’re a passionate fan or just looking for an exciting excursion, Recreation Park is a wonderful place to catch a game and enjoy the sights and sounds of America’s favorite pastime.

Sam Lynn Ballpark

Sam Lynn Ballpark is a historic baseball venue in Bakersfield, California. It was built in 1941 for the Bakersfield Badgers, a charter member of the California League.

The ballpark has a rich history and is considered the oldest of its kind in the Class-A Advanced California League.

The current tenant of the stadium is the Bakersfield Train Robbers, a team that plays in the Pecos League and is not affiliated with any Major or Minor League Baseball team.

The Sam Lynn Ballpark has undergone several renovations over the years, including the relocation of the bullpens from behind the stands to foul territory.

This change was made prior to the start of the 2006 season and resulted in a reduction of 700 general admission bleacher seats, bringing the overall seating capacity down from 4,200 to 3,500.

Despite these changes, the stadium remains a popular destination for baseball fans and continues to host exciting games and events.

San Jose Municipal Stadium

Municipal Stadium

San Jose Municipal Stadium, also known as Excite Ballpark, is a multi-purpose stadium located in San Jose, California.

It is the home of the Minor League Baseball San Jose Giants, an affiliate of the San Francisco Giants, and the San Jose State University Spartans college baseball team.

The stadium is also used by local high school baseball divisions as their championship field. With its versatile facilities, the stadium is not only a hub for sports but also for community events such as concerts, weddings, car shows, and many others.

The stadium has a long history, having been the home field for several minor league teams such as the San Jose Owls, San Jose Red Sox, San Jose Jo Sox, San Jose Pirates, San Jose Missions, San Jose Bees, and the San Jose Expos.

With its central location and state-of-the-art facilities, San Jose Municipal Stadium is an often-visited destination for sports fans and community members alike. 

San Manuel Stadium

San Manuel Stadium is an 8,000-seat open-air ballpark located in downtown San Bernardino, California.

It is the home of the Inland Empire 66ers of Minor League Baseball and the San Bernardino Valley College Coyotes.

The stadium was opened in 1996, replacing the previous home park of the 66ers, and is named after the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians, who paid for the naming rights. The stadium offers additional seating capacity through lawn seating.

Stater Bros. Stadium

Stater Bros. Stadium, now known as Adelanto Plaza & Event Center, is a beautiful and contemporary facility located in Adelanto, California.

Built in 1991, this $6.5 million stadium was designed to provide a top-notch experience for baseball fans in the area.

With a seating capacity of over 12,000 people, the stadium is perfect for hosting large events and games. The green of the baseball diamond is a sharp contrast to the surrounding desert landscape, making it a distinctive and visually stunning venue.

The Adelanto Plaza & Event Center is not just a baseball stadium, it is a multi-purpose facility that can host a variety of events. From concerts to trade shows, this stadium has everything you need to host a successful event.

With up-to-the-minute amenities and a spacious layout, the Adelanto Plaza & Event Center is the perfect place to host your next event.

Whether you’re a local resident or just visiting the area, this stadium is a must-visit spot for anyone who loves sports and entertainment.

Sunken Diamond

Sunken Diamond is a historic college baseball park located on the campus of Stanford University in Stanford, California.

With a seating capacity of 4,000, it has been the home field of the Stanford Cardinal of the Pac-12 Conference for 92 years, since its construction in 1931.

The stadium is one-of-a-kind, in that it was built on a “sunken” field, created when dirt was excavated from the site for the adjacent football stadium in 1921.

In 2008, the field was renamed Klein Field at Sunken Diamond in honor of Stanford athlete and donor Bud Klein and his family.

The stadium is a testament to the rich history of college baseball on the west coast and continues to be a popular and much-loved destination for players and fans of all ages.