San Diego Padres – Petco Park

Petco Park

Friday, May 26, 2006

Tuesday, July 9, 2013

Kim & I had been to the old home of the Padres, Qualcomm Stadium, for the final baseball game at the park. Formerly known as San Diego Stadium and Jack Murphy Stadium, the cement spiral ramps on the outside make for a lovely dizzying walk, but in general the mixed-use stadium was not a pretty site. Too much cement and a lotta parking lot, though not bad for tailgating.

The new park is, however, amazing. Petco is a small park and has a fairly intimate feel, especially compared to Qualcomm. Much like Oriole Park at Camden Yards, Petco’s architecture utilizes the old brick Western Metal Supply warehouse in left field, literally bringing the warehouse district in which it is located into the stadium. The park has revitalized the old dilapidated part of downtown San Diego, and the energy is palpable, much like Coors did to downtown Denver in the 90’s. Condos are shooting up like weeds in a Roundup commercial, showing long term promise for the future.

In the outfield is the “Park at the Park,” a small baseball field and grassy park open to all during non-game times.. And for about 5 bucks you can watch the game from a picnic blanket, while kids run around and play catch, instead of being confined to a seat.

And although it sits near the harbor, Petco chooses to face the downtown, beckoning the California suburbanites to embrace city living. (Although I might add it is mostly an industrial harbor – not too pretty!) This is a great park with great atmosphere. And it doesn’t hurt that my sister lives across the street! Can’t beat that for connivence! And it saves on parking $$$!

Update #1:

I revisited Petco Park on July 9, 2013, over seven years after my initial visit. A lot has has changed since then (besides my infant Savannah, who is now 7, and also having a son, Owen, who is 6!).

Most dramatically, the skyline in the outfield is remarkably different. As you can see from the two photos taken from about the same spot, the construction cranes have been replaced by completed buildings, making the skyline quite beautiful.

The neighborhood has grown up quite a bit. While there were quite a few local bars and eateries that had sprung up, the scene has matured with many dining options that locals seem to embrace as part of their pre-game routine. Basically, the scene has matured from passing fad to tradition.

The park has matured inside too. Long strands of ivy hang from bridges, and there are a lot of great food & beverage opportunities. In fact, it’s hard to remember a park with so many carts with food & drinks available (especially on a Tuesday night!). The lines were kept short by the sheer number of small carts, creating a great guest experience. And there were also quite a few microbrew options that didn’t exist before. As you may know, San Diego has a strong beer culture, and it was on display here at the park.

I hope I don’t wait another 7 years to go back!

Update #2:

It’s been over 7 years.

Petco in 2006

Brian, Kim, and baby Savannah

View in 2006. So much construction!

View looking out from the stadium

HDR Photo of Petco in 2013

Admission Tickets