BELL SOUTH PARK

Bell South Park was built in 2000 to replace historic Engels Stadium. It is located atop Hawk Hill, a small rise just west of downtown. $3 parking can be found on 2nd Street or 3rd Street, but there is free parking in Provident lots F and H. You must then walk up a staircase, or ride an escalator, to get to the ticket windows and gates.

This interesting location affords some nice views beyond center field, as the hills north of the city roll off into the distance. Along the third base line is US27, which is protected from foul balls by a large net. 

The seating area is divided into 3 levels, as usual, but in this case, there is no upper deck. There is a wide walkway that separates the lower reserved seats ($8) and the upper reserved seats ($5). These $5 seats can be annoying if you are in the first row or two, as many people are walking around the park while the game is on, which occasionally blocks your view. Above the upper reserved seats are the $4 general admission benches, which are recommended as you can sit wherever you want.  

The concourse is wide, but closed, so you can't watch the game. There are your normal food options, and prices are reasonable. As well, there is the Lookouts Baseball BBQ located in foul territory beyond third base. This is a neat place to stand during the game, as long as there is not a party going on. The Lookouts Picnic Pavilion is behind right field, and is another party place.

From the Baseball BBQ

There are a lot of really interesting aspects to this park. The first is the batters eye in centerfield, which has rotating ads that are shown before the game. This is a smart way to increase revenue by using an area which must be dark during the game (so the batters can see the ball) but which can be used for other purposes before the game. The next unique characteristic is the location of the bullpens - they are in the outfield, and the relievers can watch the game through holes in the fence. 

There is a barber's chair where you can get your hair cut while watching the game - at $12 for a man's haircut, it is a good deal. For those of you who want a different place to toss your trash, there is a walking garbage can that parades around the park, allowing fans to dump their garbage without leaving their seat.

Of course, no ballyard in Chattanooga would be complete without a nod to the famous Chattanooga Choo-Choo. Whenever a Lookouts player hits a bomb, a small train (a replica of the Choo-Choo) comes out of hiding in right field to celebrate the homer.

The hills in the distance - note the edge of the Choo-choo beside the Favorite Markets sign.

Overall, this park is a lot of fun. The fans are outgoing and loud, and the $4 GA seats are a bargain. The nice views and convenient location are also good. If you are in southern Tennessee, then make a stop at Bell South Park.