Oldest MLB Stadiums
1) Fenway Park - Boston Red Sox
2) Wrigley Field - Chicago Cubs
3) Dodger Stadium - Los Angeles Dodgers
4) Angel Stadium - Los Angeles Angels
5) Oakland Coliseum - Oakland Athletics
6) Kauffman Stadium – Kansas City Royals
7) Rogers Centre – Toronto Blue Jays
Major League Baseball has a rich history dating back to the late 1800s. While many new state-of-the-art ballparks have been constructed in recent years, some historic MLB stadiums have endured as hosts to America’s pastime for over a century. These venerable venues offer fans a tangible connection to the legends that played there decades ago. Here is a look at the oldest active major league stadiums still in use today. Before we dive in, be sure to check out the Kore Baseball, it is a cushioned core baseball that is replacing the wiffle ball and extremely fun to play with.
Fenway Park – Boston Red Sox
The oldest ballpark in Major League Baseball, Fenway Park has been home to the Boston Red Sox since it opened in 1912. Nicknamed “America’s Most Beloved Ballpark,” Fenway oozes nostalgia with its iconic 37-foot Green Monster wall in left field. Built in an area formerly known as the Fens, the cozy confines of Fenway Park operate much as they did over a century ago, with plenty of unique quirks. From the hand-operated scoreboard to the lone red seat marking the longest home run ever hit there, Fenway recalls baseball’s golden era. Although it has undergone some renovations, the historic charm of Fenway Park remains for fans to enjoy.
Wrigley Field – Chicago Cubs
When Wrigley Field hosted its first game in 1914, it was originally known as Weeghman Park, home to the Chicago Whales baseball club. The ballpark was built for the new Federal League baseball circuit in just 6 weeks. Located in Chicago’s North Side, the park was renamed Cubs Park in 1920 when the Cubs franchise moved in. It became known as Wrigley Field in 1926 after the chewing gum magnate William Wrigley Jr. acquired the Cubs. With its distinctive ivy covered brick walls in the outfield and iconic red marquee sign over the main entrance, Wrigley Field is considered a cathedral of baseball. It is the second oldest active major league ballpark behind Fenway.
Dodger Stadium – Los Angeles Dodgers
The third oldest MLB stadium is Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles. Originally opened in 1962, it was renovated between 2008-2012 to update amenities while preserving its historic character. Dodger Stadium has hosted eight World Series and close to 4,000 Dodgers home games over its 60 years of service. Located in Chavez Ravine overlooking downtown LA, Dodger Stadium features palm trees behind the outfield fences and the San Gabriel Mountains beyond. With a seating capacity over 56,000, it is the largest MLB stadium by occupants. Dodger Stadium offers an iconic baseball environment while integrating modern upgrades like wifi, new restrooms and upgraded concession areas.
Angel Stadium – Los Angeles Angels
Originally opened in 1966 as Anaheim Stadium, Angel Stadium has been home to the Los Angeles Angels franchise for over 50 years. Located about 30 miles south of downtown LA in Anaheim, the ballpark was built in less than two years on a former strawberry field site. It has undergone extensive renovations in 1980 and 1997-1998 to become more modern. With a current capacity of 45,000, the stadium features an outfield rockpile waterfall and fountain, as well as a left field fence lined with giant Angels caps. The most historic aspect of Angel Stadium is the massive A-frame steel roof behind home plate. It gives the ballpark an open-air feel while providing shade and cover for fans.
Oakland Coliseum – Oakland Athletics
While it’s not the most visually appealing stadium, Oakland Coliseum has a rich baseball history dating back to 1966. Home to both the MLB Athletics and the NFL Raiders until 2020, the Coliseum is located south of Oakland near the airport. It was the site of the 1989 World Series interrupted by the Loma Prieta earthquake before Game 3. With expansive foul territory and an outfield well over 400 feet to the fences, the Coliseum provides plenty of room for the A’s to showcase defensive play. While the Raiders have departed, the A’s continue playing at the Coliseum as they work towards constructing a new waterfront ballpark in Oakland.
Kauffman Stadium – Kansas City Royals
Originally named Royals Stadium when it opened in 1973, Kauffman Stadium has now hosted the Kansas City Royals for half a century. Located south of downtown KC, the expansive outfield offers a picturesque backdrop of sparking fountains beyond the fences. The stadium exterior showcases the team’s signature royal blue and gold crown logo adorning each pillar. With a seating capacity just over 37,000, Kauffman Stadium provides an intimate experience and spectacular sightlines for baseball. After renovations between 2007-2009, the stadium offers upgraded amenities while retaining its original charm that Royals fans have cherished since the 70s.
Rogers Centre – Toronto Blue Jays
Home to the Toronto Blue Jays franchise, Rogers Centre opened in 1989 as the first retractable roof stadium built for baseball. Originally named SkyDome, the venue features a dome with four-leaf panes that slide on tracks to open in 20 minutes. With accommodations for nearly 50,000 fans, Rogers Centre offers ideal conditions for baseball and other events. Located near the CN Tower and on Lake Ontario’s shore, Rogers Centre provides downtown Toronto with an iconic sporting landmark. Home run balls regularly land in the arcades ringing the exterior of the stadium under the windows. While approaching 35 years of operation, Rogers Centre still delivers a unique, climate controlled venue for MLB.
While new state-of-the-art ballparks have redefined the modern baseball experience, the oldest MLB stadiums allow fans to connect with the history of America’s pastime. From Fenway Park to Dodger Stadium to Wrigley Field, these venerable venues keep traditions alive in their walls and bleachers. Their aging facades and quirky design features tell stories that transport us back to the golden days of baseball.
The race to determine the oldest baseball stadium still standing highlights the rich history and significance of these remarkable venues in America's sports culture.
Fenway Park, Wrigley Field, Dodger Stadium, and the Tiger Stadium Site all make compelling cases for the oldest baseball stadium title. Each stadium has its own unique architectural features, storied histories, and contributions to the baseball world.
While controversies and disputes may surround the exact title of the oldest stadium, the continuous use, preservation efforts, and historical importance solidify the places of these stadiums in baseball history.
Ultimately, the quest to identify the oldest baseball stadium is not just about determining a winner, but rather celebrating the shared heritage and nostalgia that these iconic venues represent.
As we appreciate the enduring legacy of these stadiums, let's remember to preserve and honor these cultural landmarks for future generations to enjoy the magic, passion, and history of America's favorite pastime.
Thank you for joining us on this journey through baseball history. Stay tuned for more fascinating content and explore the incredible world of sports with us!