Hit a home run at America’s greatest ballparks

Hot dogs, cold drinks, popcorn, the seventh-inning stretch, and the thrill of cheering on the home team: that’s what the thrill and the history of baseball is all about.  America’s greatest ballparks are also home to some of the best MLB action. If you’re going to take in some pro baseball before fall sets in here are a few choice locations.

Fenway Park – Boston

For over 100 years, Fenway Park has been the ball stadium of record in Major League Baseball. It opened in 1912, and has been the home of the legendary Boston Red Sox ever since.

Now listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the relative density of the Fenway-Kenmore neighborhood as well as some renos over the years has resulted in a truly unique ballpark. Probably the most notable feature at Fenway is the legendary Green Monster, a 37+-foot-high green wall in left field that’s relatively close to the infield, making it a popular target for sluggers.

Wrigley Field – Chicago

When it comes to America’s ballparks, Wrigley Field isn’t exactly a spring chicken either. It opened in 1914 (originally called Weeghman Park), and has been home to the Chicago Cubs since 1916.

Chicago’s breathtaking city skyline and the ivy-covered brick outfield wall in the background are total treats for baseball fans. And just as Chicago is known as the “Windy City,” so too is Wrigley known for its gusts of wind and unusual wind patterns that come off Lake Michigan, affecting the trajectory of a ball and adding to the challenge for major-leaguers playing in Wrigley Field.

Petco Park – San Diego

While it may not be as old or as storied as either Wrigley Field or Fenway Park, there’s still plenty to soak in at San Diego’s Petco Park. Located in downtown San Diego, this 10-year-old ballpark has been home to the Padres since it opened.

With plenty of sun in San Diego the $450-million Petco Park is a great outdoor venue for pro baseball. Its design of brick and green seats harkens back to the classic MLB parks. Like Wrigley Field, baseball fans at Petco Park are treated to an impressive city skyline in the background. But at Petco Park some fans also get a glimpse of the gorgeous San Diego Bay.