As the first new park built for the Northern League, Lewis & Clark Park was once considered the jewel of the league. But with numerous new parks sprouting up since, that can no longer be said. While the park is still serviceable, it is already beginning to feel a bit outdated. It is located to the south of the city along an emerging commercial strip and overlooks a highway, making for a rather unspectacular setting. The park features a completely uncovered grandstand that is split by a walkway with stairs to the concourse. At the top of the grandstand are four luxury boxes and the press box. The concourse runs behind the grandstand and has little in the way of covering. Seating is made up of box seats (yes, real boxes of 6-8 seats each), reserved seats (also fold downs), and metal bleachers down each line. There is also a picnic area in left field and a spa in right field. Because of the large amount of foul territory and the screen which protects the entire grandstand, sightlines here are not the best. The concourse area has two concession stands, a grill area, and a small souvenir store. Concessions are rather basic, though a few BBQ items (pulled pork, ribs) are offered at the grill. Prices and quality are average. I was most impressed with the atmosphere here as it is quite laid back. There was almost no on-field games, and when they did do one (in the 13th inning) it felt very spontaneous and unrehearsed. Adding to the atmosphere was the animated PA announcer who genuinely seemed to be enjoying his job. Overall, Lewis & Clark park is a rather basic, unpretentious ballpark that offers a nice baseball atmosphere, which is something that is becoming more and more rare these days.
|