RIVERVIEW STADIUM

With a seating capacity of only 2,500, Riverview Stadium is one of the smallest parks in the minors. It was built in 1937, and has held up relatively well over that time, although I found it to be a bit cramped in the box seats. There are only 3 rows of box seats, and about 10 rows of benches, and the entire grandstand is covered by a roof, which gives the stadium a darker complexion that I don't particularly enjoy. I would recommend sitting in the general admission benches which may not offer much support for the back but have a bit more room.

The location of the ballyard is good - just beyond the fence lies the Mississippi River as well as a couple of riverboat casinos, which you can visit when the game ends. To get there, take Highway 30 through town and turn east onto North 6th Avenue. The ballpark is located on the other side of the train tracks - parking is free, but you may want to leave the car as far away as possible - I think that a lot of foul balls enter the parking lot.

The most interesting thing about this park is the shape. It is not a typical ballpark with center field being the deepest part of the park, instead, the deepest part is right center field, which is just over 400 feet, while center is at 390 feet.

The front of the stadium with ticket windows

Concessions are located on the outside of the seating area behind home plate, as well as a grill along third base line. Typical fare, but the grill offers more variety and I would try the chicken fingers which were made fresh and not greasy. Along the first base line is a large Lumber King that kids can play in.

Overall, this was the first stadium that I didn't really enjoy, so much so that I would say you don't need to see it. My personal preference is for an open grandstand, and the covered grandstand lends to a cramped feeling as well as limiting foul ball possibilities. The riverside location also leads to a few bugs, so bring some bug spray.