Major League Baseball stadiums are the home venues used by the 30 MLB clubs. These parks vary widely in age, size, and design: some are over a century old and cherished for their quirks, while others are new, climate-controlled facilities with modern amenities. Ballparks shape the spectator experience and can influence how the game is played because dimensions, wall heights and playing surfaces differ from park to park.
Common characteristics
- Capacity and seating: Most stadiums hold tens of thousands of spectators, often with a mix of general seating, luxury suites and club areas.
- Field surface: Natural grass remains common, though several parks use artificial turf or hybrid systems.
- Roof and weather control: Some venues have open-air designs, while others feature retractable roofs or full domes to deal with climate extremes.
- Unique features: Outfield wall angles, manual scoreboards, and historic landmarks can create distinctive playing conditions.
Historically, ballparks evolved from simple wooden stands to ornate concrete-and-steel parks in the early 20th century and to multiuse domes and modern single-purpose facilities later on. Two of the best-known surviving parks are Fenway Park and Wrigley Field, both early-20th-century venues that remain iconic for their original design elements. Newer stadiums incorporate large video boards, expanded concessions, and premium seating to meet modern expectations.
Beyond regular-season games, stadiums host postseason play, concerts, charity events, and occasionally other sports. Naming rights and corporate sponsorships have become a major revenue source; many parks carry corporate names that change over time.
Lists of current, planned, and notable former MLB parks are maintained by several reference sources; for a curated compilation see a Comprehensive list of MLB stadiums and for historical notes consult park histories and timelines. Distinguishing features—such as a park's age, roof type, or playing surface—are often highlighted to compare venues and their impact on the game.