One of the problems with having such a small park is how close the fans are to the game. While this might seem like a good idea, Huntington Park is on track to have the most foul balls beamed, not popped up, into the stands. This is highly dangerous, and something that all fans need to look out for. Additionally, with a park this small, Friday games are normally overflowing, and there is not enough room for all of the fans. This results in unhappy crowds, and a loss of money.
The overall look of Huntington Park seems to be planned out very well. Frankly put, it looks, and feels, like a tiny version of a MLB diamond. There is a large green wall on the right-field side, commonly known as the Mini Green Monster. Like other fields, there is a lawn-seating area, which is perfect for families. There is even a fountain for the kids to play in. Like most large parks, Huntington also has holes cut into the walls, so freeloaders – including one bum that I have seen at a few games – can stand there and watch. Finally, there is the most important feature, an outside HDTV.
This small lawn is open to anybody with any ticket, first-come, first-serve. It is perfect for frolicking kids and picnics. Photo Credit: Robert M. Barga.
When Huntington Park was planned, one of the the main concerns was how ‘green’ it would be. They started by picking a location which had potential, but was simply urban blight. Then, they used plants and other natural features to keep the urban-heat effect from occuring. All of the water in the park is at room temperature, and it all uses energy saving materials. Finally, the only spots in Huntington Park that are air conditioned are the press boxes, the dugouts, the locker rooms, and the supply rooms. Even the suites get no AC. This commitment to energy efficiency is awesome, as it saves money, and helps the environment.
Location, Location, Location
As any Realtor will tell you, location is fundamental in property; ballparks are no different. Located at the corner of Neil Avenue and Nationwide Boulevard, Huntington Park has probably one of the best positions possible in Columbus. Built right off of I-670 and 315, and pretty close to I-71, Huntington Park is easy to find. There is a major issue in finding the park, however, as the signage is not yet on the highways. Instead, you should follow the signs to Nationwide Arena.
Article comments
1 - Mike
Best ballpark in Ohio? Is this a joke?
Huntington is nice to look at, but man it's small. I must have bumped into dozens of people during the game I attended. I felt like I had no place to breathe.
As for the food "Are you there to eat or watch the game?" It's too distracting. Too many concession areas.
2 - Robert M. Barga
Mike, are you seriously saying that having many places to get food is an issue? Really?
I already said that it was small, but, if you think about it, games at the Coop never went past 9000 normally, so why make it much bigger than the 10,000 required?
3 - barga
HAHAHA, I was right, it is an amazing park
In fact, it was rated the best ballpark of the year!