PNC PARK
Location: Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Address: 115 Federal St. Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15212
Capacity: 38,496
Year Opened: 2001
Occupants: Pittsburgh Pirates
The Pittsburgh Pirates are one of the oldest teams in the National League, dating back to 1887 when they were originally dubbed the Pittsburgh Alleghenys. After beginning play in smaller venues like Exhibition and Recreation Park, the Pirates moved into their first modern ballpark in 1909 with the construction of Forbes Field. The ballpark proved to have a cutting-edge design by the standards of the time, with luxury suites above the grandstand and elevators and ramps that brought patrons to their seats. After years at the grand old park, the Pirates joined the NFL's Pittsburgh Steelers in 1970 at the new multi-purpose venue, Three Rivers Stadium. After another 30 years at Three Rivers, the Pirates had a ballpark of their own when PNC Park opened in 2001.
PNC Park is located along the edge of the Allegheny River, offering spectacular views of downtown Pittsburgh and the natural beauty of the area. The 38,362-seat stadium is the second-smallest in the major leagues ahead of Fenway Park, and the venue certainly has the look and charm of an old ballpark. It was the first ballpark in the United States to incorporate a two-deck design since Milwaukee County Stadium was constructed in 1953. With this compact design, a seat in the very highest point of the ballpark is only 88 feet from field level. The venue receives nearly $1.5 million a year from PNC Bank, which is based in Pittsburgh, in exchange for the naming rights.
Upon entering the stadium, attendees can take advantage of the "Tastes of Pittsburgh" food court, which offers a wide range of choices from Pittsburgh eateries. On top of the right field stands, fans can enjoy a 300-person picnic area, a perfect spot to relax and enjoy a summer afternoon. Fans that are driving in to see a Pirates game can take advantage of the many parking garages and lots in the downtown area. The stadium is only a five minute walk over the Clemente Bridge.
The opening of PNC Park jump-started a new era of Pirates baseball, as the team has used its high draft picks and thorough scouting to create a talented roster. In the wide open National League Central, the Pirates have achieved the perfect mix of talent, facilities and a dedicated fan base, all key elements of postseason success.