Louisville Slugger Field

Written by Julie Greiner

One of the newest attractions on the riverbank in Louisville is the new baseball stadium - the Louisville Slugger Field. Slugger Field opened in the spring of 2000 and is most certainly the finest minor league park in the country. "Take me out the the ballpark," has a renewed meaning in Louisville. Slugger Field is home to the minor league Louisville Bats team and the field is named after the famous Louisville Slugger baseball bat.

1800's Railroad Depot

The Louisville Slugger Field was planned and built with much insight and Slugger Field With Louisville Skyline in View

an unusual design concept. The stadium which seats over 13,000 has been situated on the banks of the Ohio River, within one block of the revitalized Waterfront Park district. The historic rail freight depot, which dates back to the late 1800's, has been incorporated into the stadium. This converted rail freight depot, which covers more than 62,000 square feet, serves as the entrance to the stadium and contains some 22,000 square feet of retail shops and restaurants. The design of the Louisville Slugger Field was a joint effort of HNTB Architects of Kansas City, MO., and K. Norman Berry and Associates of Louisville. The stadium, being joined with the formerly Brinly-Hardy warehouse, formerly an 1800's train shed building - makes for one unique stadium.

Louisville Bats' New Stadium

The stadium cost some $39 million and includes 30 private suites, second-level

Photo Courtesy Louisville Convention and Visitors Center

club seating, a continuous concourse around the field, an outfield seating berm and an impressive press facility. The concession facilities and restrooms are modern and equipped to handle a full house crowd. There is a fully equipped children's play area and an array of retail outlets. One of the most important features of the stadium is the recessed playing field which features natural grass.

Louisville Slugger Museum

The Louisville Slugger baseball bat is still manufactured in Louisville. The Louisville Slugger bat is prized from the Little Leagues to the Major Leagues. The Louisville Slugger bat has been manufactured since 1884 by the Hillerich and Bradsby Company. If baseball is your game, the new 15,000 square foot museum featuring the Louisville Slugger is a must see. Hands-on exhibits, a multi-media tour and a fantastic gift shop are featured. The museum and bat factory are located at 800 W. Main Street in Louisville.