The best of the A's Minor League ballparks
The Minor League Ballpark Guides series presented by Wyndham brings all the most fun features of Minors ballparks across America (and one in Canada!) onto your desktop, tablet or mobile device, whether you're interested in taking a virtual tour from where you sit or planning a trip to catch some
The Minor League Ballpark Guides series presented by Wyndham brings all the most fun features of Minors ballparks across America (and one in Canada!) onto your desktop, tablet or mobile device, whether you're interested in taking a virtual tour from where you sit or planning a trip to catch some games. Here, we present a roundup of the can't-miss elements from every park in the Oakland Athletics organization.
Unique concessions
Stockton Ports, Single-A:
At many a Minor League ballpark, fans can find unique twists on classic stadium fare. But at Banner Island Ballpark, something completely different takes center stage: asparagus. Often times referred to as the asparagus capital of the world, Stockton goes all out with Asparagus Night -- from the jerseys to the concessions. Get your stalky vegetable grilled, on fries, in tacos or bacon-wrapped. Read more »
Best ballpark feature
Las Vegas Aviators, Triple-A:
Las Vegas Ballpark sits in one of the hottest areas of the country, but the Aviators have the perfect solution to keep fans comfortable while taking in a ballgame. Just a few feet behind the fence in right-center field is a pool with 14 seats so spectators can watch the entire game without leaving the water. The 2,900-square-foot pool deck offers food, refreshments, a bar and two lifeguards. The pool is also next to the away bullpen if fans want to offer some friendly advice to the opposition. Read more »
Unique view
Lansing Lugnuts, High-A:
This designation for Jackson Field refers to both the view inside the stadium and of the ballpark itself. Just beyond center field is the Outfield Ball Park Lofts apartment complex. The colorful and geometric building offers a fun backdrop to the game for those in the stands as well as a unique experience for those who can watch the contest from the comfort of their homes. Residents in center can stand on their balconies and catch a 483-foot homer while those in right-center have a shot at a 507-foot moonshot. Read more »
Best local attraction
Midland RockHounds, Double-A:
Midland is a part of the Permian Basin with its sister city, Odessa, which was the inspiration for the book, movie and TV show, "Friday Night Lights," that chronicled high school football's big state in Texas. The area is also home to one of the best food scenes in West Texas. Opened in 2020, Food Truck Alley hosts up to 25 vendors and offers a variety of options. Bubba’s 33, Little Woodrow’s Watering Hole and Cork and Pig Tavern are also reliable spots for both food and drinks. Read more »
Kelsie Heneghan is a writer for MiLB.com. Follow her on Twitter @Kelsie_Heneghan.