At a young 23 years old, Camden Yards is already considered a classic stadium. In the early 90's, Baltimore threw out the templates and told architecture firm HOK to build them an appropriate palace to baseball. Using the massive B&O Railroad warehouse as a backdrop, HOK went back in time to build an old looking stadium with modern amenities. It has had a big influence on just about every baseball stadium built since.
A lot of history here. Babe Ruth lived above his father's tavern, which was located somewhere between 2nd base and the right field wall. Cal Ripken, Jr. broke Lou Gerigh's consecutive game streak here. Here are the stats:
Opened: 1992
Surface: Kentucky Bluegrass
Construction cost: $110 million
Capacity: 45,971
Field dimensions: Left field - 333 ft; Left center - 364 ft; center field - 410 ft; right center - 373 ft; right field - 318 ft.
Home team: Baltimore Orioles (American League - MLB) 1992 - present
Events attended: 1 game
Great access all around the entire stadium. Wheechair seating is plentiful all around the seating bowl but the closest to the field are the seats we had, about 20 rows back behind home plate.
Ticketing is easy, just call the box office at 888-848-BIRD. We had no problem getting seats for the wheelchair and two companions. Dynamic pricing means there are no set ticket prices but our seats right behind home plate were around $50. Of course, this is in a period where the Orioles are not a contending team, so that might have put a damper on prices.
Public transit, via the bus system, the Charm City Circulator, and the light rail will take you right to the stadium.
Many lodging choices are available nearby in the downtown area, all within a few blocks walk. The most lively area is two blocks east of the stadium, the Inner Harbor area with many restaurants, bars, and attractions.
Food choices are expansive here. Esskay hot dogs provide a very good basic ballpark dog. Former player Boog Powell can frequently be found at his barbecue stand beyond right field. The beer selection on tap is vast and average priced ($8 - 15). The local National Bohemian (Natty Boh) is very good for a cheap brew and an ice cold pint, delivered to your seat, is the best bargain in the park.
There is no open concourse so you'll miss the action when visiting the snack bar or bathroom but if you're sitting around left field, the authentic biergarten will provide great times while still giving you a view of the game.
Darryl
Copyright 2015 - Darryl Musick
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