NELSON W. WOLFF MUNICIPAL STADIUM

Nelson W. Wolff Stadium was built in 1994 and named for the mayor of San Antonio who was instrumental in its construction. Located on the outskirts of town, this park is one of the better minor-league parks we have seen. Many newer minor-league parks go overboard, trying to match the major-league parks with games and unique features, but Wolff Stadium is simple and doesn't detract from the game.

The first thing I liked was the entrance out front. Two large columns frame the main gate, which is blue. The ticket window is just off to the right. Ticket choices are very good as well - for $7.50 you can sit in the box seats below the concourse (Rows A-J), while $6.50 gets you in the box seats above the concourse (Rows K-N). Above these seats are the outfield reserved benches at $5.50, these bench seats are $4.50 down the lines. It should be noted that these seats curve in and face the field, which is an important feature to keep your neck from kinking because it is turned in one direction for nine innings. There is also a berm beyond left field for $4, but we recommend the box seats along first - the sun sets behind first base and is not a problem in night games. 

Above the second deck are a number of luxury boxes as well as a roof. The roof doesn't hang over too much of the seating area, which is great - it adds to the look of the stadium without needlessly shading too many seats. The interesting thing about this roof is that lights are set up underneath it - after the sun sets, these lights illuminate the underside of the roof, creating a unique effect.

The luxury boxes and roof from right field

The scoreboard is in right field and is shaped like the Alamo. Player stats are not updated as the game goes on, which is mildly annoying. Another problem was food prices, which were almost major league level. The shaved ice came in the mini-helmets (usually reserved for sundaes), which was a first. There is also a booth selling roasted corn down the left field line. Two picnic areas are available, although the one along right field is reserved for parties.

The concessions and main walking area are in the back of the stadium. There is also a small section on a brick wall which contains plaques dedicated to past heroes, including Nolan Ryan, Joe Morgan, and Cito Gaston. The team store and guest relations booth are also located here. The staff was very friendly and even the vendors seemed to enjoy themselves.

Cito Gaston is honoured with his Blue Jays hat on 

The outfield is relatively normal, although the left field is very shallow at 310 feet, while center is 402 feet away, with right being a normal 330 feet. 

Finally, a good word for the fans, who were some of the best - a large number stayed through the entire 15-inning game we saw, including a short rainstorm that didn't stop the game. They like their team and they were rewarded with a great win for the Missions. 

Overall, this is a very good stadium to watch a game. Seats are good, sun is not a problem, and there aren't that many annoying promotions. Make a stop here between California and Houston, and check out a game - it will be memorable.