Avista Stadium Spokane, WA
Stadium Minor League History: Northwest League 1983-present
Current Status: Home
of the Spokane Indians of the Northwest League (short season-A)
What's Good: There
is a lot to like about Avista Stadium. An attractive,
well-kept exterior greets fans as they approach, and the entire facility
is remarkably clean and neat (everything appeared to be freshly painted
and scrubbed). Inside, the grandstand is split by a narrow cross-aisle,
with box seats below and reserved seats above. Behind the last rows
of seats is a series of open-air luxury suites, which can be accessed either
though the stands or via staircases leading up from the outside, and a
large cantilevered roof covers maybe half the seats around the infield.
The playing field is beautifully groomed, and looks out over railroad tracks
with mountains off in the distance. With the field dimensions a bit
on the small side, the outfield is ringed by a high fence with two rows
of advertising, and a simple scoreboard
is beyond
the wall in right. The main concourse area is on the outside of the
stadium, with concessions and souvenirs sold from a variety of stands and
booths along the exterior. The selection of food was terrific, and
(like many places in the northwest) vegetarian choices were available.
The staff was incredibly (almost too) friendly and helpful, and the crowd
was large and seemingly knowledgable. There was plenty of parking
(the stadium is on the site of the state fairgrounds), and it's easy to
reach from the interstate. I really enjoyed my visit here -- Avista
Stadium instantly became one of my favorite ballparks, and I hope I get
the chance to return sometime soon.
What's Not So Good: I
can't really think of anything terribly negative about this place.
All of the "box" seats belong to season ticket holders, which is great
for them, of course, but keeps others from sitting in the best seats.
This Photo: June 27, 2001 Spokane Indians vs. Tri-City Dust Devils
