The first time one enters Oriole Park at Camden Yards, they have to go through the centerfield pavilion, as that is one of the greatest locations in the game today. Unlike any other major league stadium, the team’s retired numbers are presented as statues, along with the sculptures of legends: Brooks Robinson, Cal Ripken Jr, Eddie Murray, Earl Weaver, and Jim Palmer. As one walks past into the gates, a great view of the field is portrayed with large black iron gates being the gateway to the outfield seats.
One will notice right away that all the concession stands have Oriole based names such as “O What a Dog” or have clever, simple names, but all in all everywhere one looks, there is orange. The representation of Orioles pride is greatly glorified, as there are banners hanging across the concourse with little stores and corner shops selling the O’s.
But, as one enters the concourse, the field is not visible. In order to reach the seats, tunnels must be entered into that open up to the great view of the city in the background of the playing grounds. It is pretty rare to see the whole concourse hidden from the playing field. Despite Camden Yards being the first retro major league stadium built, the hidden concourse is an aspect that degrades the historical venue. The diamond is roughly on the same level as the concession stands, unlike other venues where the concourse is wide open and higher than the field, allowing fans to look down onto the game while standing in line for a hot dog.
The greatest thing about the view at Birdland is the big brown apartment building in right field. The layout of the seating chart is a little awkward, but the view is magnificent with the city buildings in the background once one is sitting down. The seats are too close to the next row, so people have to stand all the way up in order to let people pass, where as newer stadiums made more room. A stadium that should comfortable fit 35-40000, has managed to squeeze in 45000.
The other deficit is that there is only one mega screen. Yes, this stadium was built in the early 1990’s, but a retro park is known for all the entertainment in the outfield. Overall Camden Yards may have some flaws, but the atmosphere and history in the air makes it a must see, however, the hidden concourse is a problem that can’t be looked away from.
Rating: C+
