My all-too-disputable MLB ballpark rankings upon visiting all 30

This quest began long before I was paid for a dream job, traveling the country to write about baseball. It began as most people’s love for baseball begins — mom, dad, son, piling in the car to drive first to PNC Park in Pittsburgh and then to Rogers Centre in Toronto.

I was in early high school, and while this Kostka family road trip was not a first, it marked the first time I really thought, I should see all of these.

That is the beauty of a ballpark.

First base is 90 feet from home plate, but apart from the set dimensions of the diamond, no two stadiums are identical. They all have their quirks, their charms — and they’re all good. Yes, some are better than others. But even in Arlington, Texas, home to my least favorite ballpark (spoiler!) there are redeeming qualities, such as the wide concourses.

I truly, firmly believe every ballpark is great. They all host baseball games, and they all have cold beer, and even the most dilapidated places (read: RFK Stadium) can be charming — although I have fonder memories of D.C. United there than the Nationals.

All of this is to say, I have now seen all 30 active ballparks in Major League Baseball. Coors Field in Denver finalized my never-ending quest. When — if — Las Vegas and a new Tampa stadium open, there will be more parks to check off.

In the meantime, here are my all-too-disputable rankings of all 30 current ballparks (Sorry, Coliseum, you deserved so much better).

Some of it came down to a gut feeling, but I created a rubric of sorts to guide me. The criteria were the concourses (maneuverability and view of the field), the view (not just a skyline; interesting ballpark features can help), ambience (not just fan energy but the full atmosphere of a place) and the surrounding neighborhood (with an urbanist tilt, particularly for a night-owl beat writer).

The most important thing to remember is that these are subjective rankings based on one person’s experience. With that in mind, please note that I love Camden Yards. Just because one is ranked below another doesn’t mean the former is much worse; it’s a gut feeling, an aura, a cool breeze on a summer day.

Therefore, if you write me an email or comment on social media calling me an idiot, let this serve as my reply: I’m sorry you feel that way. These are my rankings. I’d love to hear your rankings and how you built them.

Tier A: Oracle Park (San Francisco), Petco Park (San Diego), Wrigley Field (Chicago), Fenway Park (Boston)

Tier B: Comerica Park (Detroit), Rogers Centre (Toronto), T-Mobile Park (Seattle), Camden Yards (Baltimore), Coors Field (Denver), PNC Park (Pittsburgh)

Tier C: Target Field (Minneapolis), Citizens Bank Park (Philadelphia), Busch Stadium (St. Louis), Dodger Stadium (Los Angeles), Truist Park (Atlanta)

Tier D: Progressive Field (Cleveland), Citi Field (New York), Daikin Field (Houston), American Family Field (Milwaukee), Yankee Stadium (New York)

Tier E: Tropicana Field (St. Petersburg), Great American Ball Park (Cincinnati), Nationals Park (Washington), Angel Stadium (Anaheim), Kauffman Stadium (Kansas City)

Tier F: LoanDepot Park (Miami), Rate Field (Chicago), Chase Field (Arizona), Sutter Health Park (Sacramento), Globe Life Field (Arlington)

From my favorite to my least favorite, let’s dive in.

No. 1: Oracle Park, San Francisco

Looking out at the water and the Bay Bridge beyond, there are few better views at a ballpark. The weather is nearly perfect all year for a flannel-wearing lad like me. The outfield is wide open and allows for foot traffic to mill about, taking in the scene from multiple vantages.

In short, Oracle Park is the perfect ballpark.

No. 2: Petco Park, San Diego

On one summer day last year, I took in a few innings at Petco Park from the center-field standing room areas. An ideal ballpark has options for as many clienteles as possible, all melded into one fabric. Petco Park’s unique picnic-area setup is perfect for families, just as the historic Western Metal Supply Co. building was beautifully integrated into left field as suites and a bar.

Petco Park comes as a close second to Oracle Park. They both stand out as modern-era ballparks that allow for an intimate setting and a big league feel.

No. 3: Wrigley Field, Chicago

If these rankings were based upon day games only, Wrigley Field would easily be the top of the list. What this historic venue lacks, understandably, in concourse space, it makes up for in character. The ivy walls, the outfield bleacher seats, the presence of the old center-field scoreboard accompanied tastefully by two video boards in left and right fields — bravo, Wrigley.

I have been fortunate enough to catch a few day games here. A cool wind whipped off Lake Michigan. A summer shandy was in hand. There are few better experiences in baseball.

No. 4: Fenway Park, Boston

Yes, the concourses are tight and the seats are squishy. The pure character of Fenway Park more than makes up for that, however. Any given night, the packed house can make a Tuesday in August feel like a postseason game.

Any of these top four ballparks has a claim to No. 1. In 2022, when Gunnar Henderson appeared at Fenway Park for the first time, I was lucky enough to join a tradition. We went out to the Green Monster, entered it and signed our names inside. I left my mark on that stadium … sort of.

No. 5: Comerica Park, Detroit

It’s time to get weird. The first four on this list are fairly standard offerings. But I have a personal affinity for Comerica Park, nestled into the heart of Detroit near a public park and with a skyline view. The concourses are spacious and wide, with a view of the field at every corner, and the wide-open outfield sections are superb.

Plus, there are more tiger statues than you can believe. Anything quirky receives bonus points. The more tigers, the better. You can’t have too many. Once you leave the ballpark, the reviving downtown welcomes you with bars, restaurants and multiple public transit options. This is a gem, and I’m willing to take heat on how highly I rank it.

No. 6: Rogers Centre, Toronto

This is one of baseball’s best indoor-outdoor concepts, and the upgrades in recent years turned a potentially aging stadium into a resurrected jewel. The 500 level is a destination worth seeing because of the reconstructed bar areas. The stadium is right downtown, which grants it massive bonus points. When the the roof is open, the CN Tower overlooks the structure. When it is closed, the ceiling dazzles with lighting displays.

Games here feel momentous. This is a big-time venue. I was fortunate enough to be there for Game 6 of the 2025 American League Championship Series, and the roar in Rogers Centre created one of the best postseason environments I’ve ever experienced.

No. 7: T-Mobile Park, Seattle

This is another example of a retractable-roof ballpark done right, and in the upper sections, the view of the Olympic Mountain range couples perfectly with Pacific Northwest summer weather. It’s easy to traverse all sections of this ballpark, and the atmosphere is often strong.

Naturally, there are fond memories that help elevate a ballpark. As a kid, my family visited Seattle, and inside Pike Place Market, my dad took a bite of some sweet treat and dropped chocolate all over his shirt. He washed it in a sink and turned it inside out before we reached the game. In the nosebleeds, shirt finally dry, my dad decided it was time to turn his shirt inside right. At that exact moment, a between-inning camera found my shirtless dad and had him on the video board.

So, about a decade and a half ago, Gregory Kostka became the original Tarps Off guy.

No. 8: Camden Yards, Baltimore

I have grappled with this long and hard. Banner columnist Kyle Goon wrote me that I’ve seen the original yet prefer the knockoffs. That may be true. Camden Yards changed the game, and I’ve written many love letters to this fantastic park.

It’s a toss-up in Tier B, for me, slotting in at No. 8 because the concourses are enclosed. Pickles is a great ballpark tradition (Quigley’s is my preference, however), and opening day in Baltimore is a special experience. Camden Yards deserves its flowers. Perhaps my familiarity with Baltimore makes other destinations more exciting. That’s possible.

No. 9: Coors Field, Denver

I almost saved the best for last. The fans in Denver deserve a better baseball team, but at least their ballpark is gorgeous. It fits much of my favorite metrics: wide concourses with a view; an open outfield that allows for standing-room occupants; bleacher seating in the outfield; a rooftop bar area that serves $3 Coors Banquets before select home games. In the upper right-field sections, the sun setting behind the Rocky Mountains will take your breath away.

There are few dull games at this park. The high elevation leads to craziness, and afterward, when you’re leaving the park, downtown Denver is at your fingertips — check out Wynkoop Brewing.

No. 10: PNC Park, Pittsburgh

In terms of city views, there are none better than the Pittsburgh skyline and Roberto Clemente Bridge. The actual ballpark leaves a little to be desired, honestly. Perhaps that skepticism comes from such lofty expectations. The atmosphere at PNC Park can be lively, but it sometimes falls short of the energy felt elsewhere.

Still, this is a must-see ballpark. I appreciate the way PNC Park utilizes steel beams throughout the design; the raw element, much like with Baltimore’s brick and steel, fits the city.

No. 11: Target Field, Minneapolis

I was tempted to skyrocket Target Field into the top 10. That’s how much I enjoy this compact ballpark tucked into downtown Minneapolis on one city block. The views from anywhere in the stadium are great because the seats go up, not out. And looking out at center field offers a terrific view of a skyline — along with a sign with the old Twins logo, with Minnie and Paul shaking hands across the Mississippi River.

After the game, head to the Loon Cafe, which may be the best baseball writer bar in America (talk to the owner, Tim, and hear his old Twins stories). There are many options in Minneapolis, however, including Bricksworth Beer Co., Fulton Brewing and Modist Brewing.

No. 12: Citizens Bank Park, Philadelphia

Citizens Bank Park is another high-class ballpark with a superb atmosphere. It is docked points because there is practically nothing around it, and for someone who values a downtown park with walkability, this is lacking.

However, inside the stadium, those minor annoyances fade away. Citizens Bank Park was on full display during the All-Star Game this year and is among the best places to watch a game (so long as you’re not cheering for the road team).

No. 13: Busch Stadium, St. Louis

The atmosphere is not what it once was, and that happens when a baseball-loving city is dealt a losing hand for years. But I know how great Busch Stadium can feel, and even during a sleepy weekday series against the Orioles this year, the park impressed. The Gateway Arch view is vital, but that’s not all.

St. Louis’ Metro takes you right to the stadium, and the ballpark village creates a lively pre- and postgame destination.

No. 14: Dodger Stadium, Los Angeles

Based purely on atmosphere, it’s one of the best places to be. The view of the San Gabriel Mountains is captivating. The renovated outfield sections, which introduced more maneuverability, are a great touch. But the acres of parking lots around the ballpark limit its greatness, and the stairwells to maneuver levels are cramped, creating backlogs.

No. 15: Truist Park, Atlanta

I have trouble reconciling the manufactured environment with what is a great ballpark experience. The Battery is lively, but there is no real character there. Perhaps, in a decade or two, the popped-up village will feel more natural.

As for the stadium, Truist Park is a modern design done well, with multiple seating options and an outfield bar area. The concourses are easily navigable, and the mini museum for all things Braves adds a semblance of history.

No. 16: Progressive Field, Cleveland

I always think of Liz Lemon’s love of Cleveland from the TV show “30 Rock.” Cleveland, the city, is not New York. Good. I like Cleveland. I like the Cuyahoga River. I like Lake Erie. I like the ballpark, especially, with its right-field bar and downtown skyline.

So, yeah, Lemon is right. Give Cleveland credit.

No. 17: Citi Field, New York

Citi Field is the better ballpark in New York. It captures the bright lights of the Big Apple and makes you feel like you’re witnessing important moments, even if there’s a distinct Lol, Mets, quality to it. The ballpark can’t help that.

In a sense, it’s almost too big for my liking. But, in a big city, this fits.

No. 18: Daikin Park, Houston

This placement drew ire in The Banner’s MLB group chat. But, fine, I’ll say it: I like trains. It has a train. It sometimes chugs along. I like that. The real unfortunate aspect is that Tal’s Hill — a grass incline in center field — is no longer there. That was insane, in the best way. At least the pillars in left-center field still lead to crazy plays, such as this Roger Bernadina catch that I’ll always love.

Also, downtown Houston is ideal for a pregame visitor to eat at one of the best grocery stores in America: Phoenicia Specialty Foods. Bonus points right there.

No. 19: American Family Field, Milwaukee

Go get a Spotted Cow and take in the smell of bratwursts and onions and peppers grilling. Yes, this is outside of downtown. Yes, there are parking lots surrounding it. Yes, the view to center doesn’t offer much.

But this is Midwest Baseball, and it’s done well with great amenities and views of the action and racing sausages. I’m partial here, of course, because my family is from Wisconsin. I grew up visiting Miller Park (its proper name), and the most memorable moment in a ballpark came in 2023, when three generations of Kostkas stood on the field. My dad and grandpa have since died. Being in Milwaukee will always feel like home away from home.

No. 20: Yankee Stadium, New York

Yankee Stadium is bombastic to a fault. It’s New York capitalism on full blast. Cover your ears, because they might bleed by the end.

All of that said, this still makes baseball feel grand. Watching a game here is meaningful, even with its faults. And visiting Monument Park in center field is a cool connection to the team’s storied history.

No. 21: Tropicana Field, St. Petersburg

I know, I know. I’m shocked by this, too. But Tropicana Field is actually pretty cool once you understand what you’re signing up for. There are stingrays in the outfield, cool lighting displays on the roof, a nice 72-degree temperature and a great view from anywhere because the upper deck is so rarely open.

Plus, venture to nearby Central Avenue for one of the best neighborhoods around. Bars, restaurants and hotels are all right there within walking distance. Visit Green Bench Brewing for a pilsner.

No. 22: Great American Ball Park, Cincinnati

This is a fine, not great, ballpark. The replica riverboat in the outfield is its greatest touch, paying homage to the Ohio River that runs just beyond. Cincinnati is an underrated city, too. This may not stand out, but it’s well worth visiting.

No. 23: Nationals Park, Washington

It’s rather cookie-cutter, although I do enjoy the right-field promenade. Over the years, this ballpark has started to look better in my eyes because of how Navy Yard has grown up around it. Plus, they sell Devil’s Backbone in the ballpark. That’s worth the admission.

No. 24: Angel Stadium, Anaheim

Like the Angels, there is much to be desired about this ballpark. However, the rocks and river in center field are a great touch, and although the stadium is dated, the concourses are wide enough for my liking. Although the place is surrounded by parking lots, the presence of Golden Road Brewing nearby aids its cause.

No. 25: Kauffman Stadium, Kansas City

Do you enjoy the view of a highway? Do you want to be in the middle of nowhere? Then this ballpark is for you. Actually, as much as I detest the parking lots and dismal view, the stadium has charm with water fountains in the outfield.

No. 26: LoanDepot Park, Miami

If only every game here felt like the World Baseball Classic. Marlins games don’t have much going for them, and the removal of the psychedelic-dolphin-rainbow statue in center field is unfortunate. Why be normal when you can be weird?

No. 27: Rate Field, Chicago

The White Sox are unlucky to compete with Wrigley Field. This is no competition, in truth. The advertising boards around the outfield box in this stadium, and there is no downtown Chicago skyline view. The smell of peppers and onions grilling may save this park from a lesser score.

No. 28: Chase Field, Phoenix

It has a pool in the outfield, which is interesting. I’d rather be dry at a baseball game, personally. Thank goodness for air conditioning in Arizona, but when the roof is closed, this is an oddly dark stadium and shouts of joy felt out of place.

No. 29: Sutter Health Park, Sacramento

It’s pathetic that Major League Baseball games are played here. The Coliseum, for all its foibles, was a lovely, historic place to watch baseball. The tacos were served on paper plates. The Athletics should not be in this mess.

As it is, ignoring the debacle this has become, Sutter Health Park is a charming minor league stadium with a grass berm in the outfield. I’d like to see a major league park integrate that aspect someday.

No. 30: Globe Life Field, Arlington

The Texas Rangers really have no excuses here. This is such a new ballpark, and yet it’s so ugly. From the outside, it looks like an aircraft hangar. It’s also in the middle of nowhere, with blazing temperatures and a Walmart for your convenience. Credit where it’s due: It’s large, as things are in Texas.