Oriole Park at Camden Yards

Oriole Park at Camden Yards was ahead of its time when it opened, and is still regarded as one of the best parks in the major leagues.
Oriole Park at Camden Yards was ahead of its time when it opened, and is still regarded as one of the best parks in the major leagues.

Oriole Park at Camden Yards, which most fans simply call Camden Yards, opened in 1992 and you could argue that this park’s construction is one of the most important events in MLB ballpark history. That’s because Camden Yards was built with a retro feel, offering fans a throwback design to the ballparks of yesteryear and stepping away from the bowl-style parks that were popular in the 1970s and 1980s. The immediate success and accolades earned by Oriole Park completely changed the landscape of future parks, and each of those built after it mimics the Oriole Park look in some small manner.

Oriole Park is situated in downtown Baltimore, adjacent to MT&T Bank Stadium, home of the NFL’s Ravens, and just a short walk from a seemingly endless list of things to see and do before or after you watch the Orioles in action. Perhaps the most notable ballpark feature isn’t technically inside the park — the B&O Warehouse, a historic building that was completed in 1905, was included in the ballpark’s design and sits beyond the right field fence. A former railroad warehouse, it’s one of the longest buildings on the east coast and now houses Orioles offices and a private club.

Between the B&O Warehouse and the right field fence sits Eutaw Street, one of the most happening spots in all of baseball. Eutaw Street is lined with vendors and concession stands, and is closed to vehicles. Make sure that you look for the bronze plaques dotted around Eutaw Street. They each represent the landing spot of home run balls, and include the hitter’s name and team and the date and distance of the blast. Also outside the ballpark’s gates, be sure to look for the statue of a young Babe Ruth, named Babe’s Dream, as well as the retired numbers of a list of former Orioles greats.

There are a number of worthwhile spots to visit throughout the park. Be sure to check out the picnic area behind the outfield bullpens. It was added in 2012 and offers a grassy area and trees, providing some valuable shade for families on sunny summer days. In this area, be sure to look for the bronze statues recognizing former Orioles greats. The upper-deck seats behind home plate provide a good view of the city’s skyline, although some fans point out that the construction of the Hilton Baltimore, which you’ll see beyond the left field fence, has hindered fans’ ability to enjoy the city’s skyline.