Camden Yards: Still a Classic

More than 30 years after it first opened, Camden Yards remains a baseball must-see.  The Baltimore Orioles home park kicked off the trend of retro-design that influenced almost every stadium built since it opened in 1992.  The close in seating and other architectural cues not only pay homage to beloved past venues such as Ebbets Field, and the venerable Fenway Park and Wrigley Field, but simply create a nicer fan experience. 


The notion of a ballpark fitting into a cityscape, instead of dominating or replacing it led to incorporating the B&O Warehouse building into the design of Camden Yards, making it the home of restaurants, offices and souvenir shops -- while creating an appealing backdrop and target for aspiring sluggers.
And the ballpark hasn't remained stagnant: enhanced lighting, video and signage keep it up to date, with fireworks now brightening the sky after an O's victory!


In light of the Orioles' disappointing season, there are discount food stands with $4 hot dogs and $4 sodas.  And tickets, always cheaper than in New York and Philadelphia, are a bargain these days -- especially on the secondary market.   I picked up a pair of seats for $83 ($41.50 each) about 25 rows behind the visitors dugout.




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