#30Fieldsin30Days: Angel Stadium of Anaheim
What's more perfect than a day at the ballpark? 30 perfect days at 30 ballparks. 30 Fields in 30 Days is here to show off the can't-miss spots at each and every Major League stadium. Join us, then plan out an unforgettable day at your favorite park.
On the freeway south of Los Angeles, there's a true Southern California landmark -- The Big A.
Originally opened in 1966, and renovated prior to the 1997 season, Angel Stadium of Anaheim is the 4th-oldest Major League ballpark. The Angels franchise played just 5 seasons elsewhere before moving into its longtime home.
The stadium provides a series of callbacks to the franchise's history - from founding owner Gene Autry to the team's connections to Disney.
- The Big A: Though it's often used as shorthand for the stadium itself, The Big A refers to the first piece of Angel Stadium that any visitor sees. It's a huge A-shaped sign in the parking lot, near the freeway. And even if you aren't attending that night's game, The Big A's got you covered. If its halo is lit, the Angels won.
- The rock formation: Installed during the mid-90s renovation as the "California Spectacular" -- a nod to nearby Disneyland -- the eye-catching rock formation (and waterfall, and fountain) in center field has become the stadium's most identifiable feature. Keep both eyes glued to it after each Angels home run, as it is set ablaze with fireworks and a special fountain show.
