Three Minor League Ballparks on My 2025 Travel List
There’s something special about minor league baseball. It’s got the heart of the game with a more-relaxed atmosphere, quirky promos, and the kind of local flavor you can’t replicate. In 2025, I’m making it a point to hit up some of the best parks in the south — and these three stadiums are at the top of my list.
1. Toyota Field – Madison, Alabama
Home of the Rocket City Trash Pandas
I was halfway sold on this one because of the team name alone. But Toyota Field backs up the hype with a sleek, fan-friendly design and a setting that feels equal parts modern and charming. Toyota Field opened in 2021, so it’s still one of the newer parks in the minors. Plus, with a name like Trash Pandas, you just know the merch game is strong. The Trash Pandas are the Double-A affiliate of the Los Angeles Angels. Madison is located just outside of Huntsville, where you’ll find lots of shopping, restaurants, and other fun things to do. I’m excited to check it out!
2. Covenant Health Park – Knoxville, Tennessee
Home of the Knoxville Smokies
Covenant Health Park is bringing baseball back to downtown Knoxville. This brand-new park will host its first game on April 15. It holds about 7500 baseball fans and is part of a revitalization project in downtown Knoxville. I’m excited to see the 360-degree walkable concourse! The Smokies are the Double-A affiliate of the Chicago Cubs.
3. Coolray Field – Gwinnett, Georgia
Home of the Gwinnett Stripers
Just outside of Atlanta, Coolray Field has been on my radar for a while. It’s clean, it’s accessible, and it’s got a solid mix of big-league talent on the rise and Southern ballpark energy. Plus, the Stripers do a great job with fan engagement—think fireworks, theme nights, and all the family-friendly fun you could want. This park opened 2009 and holds approximately 10,000 baseball fans. The Stripers are the Triple-A affiliate of the Atlanta Braves.
Have you visited any of these three parks? Are there any new MiLB parks on your list for this year? Tell me in the comments!
