Fowler Park
San Diego, CA
Review by Mike
Fowler Park and Cunningham Field is a long and ponderous name for a college baseball stadium, but in this case it is appropriate because it describes one of the grandest small stadiums I have ever seen. Fowler Park, as we’ll call it here, is a magnificent venue that is as inspired as it is unique. The stadium opened in 2013 and seats a mere 1,700 fans, but it feels so much bigger than that.
The stadium was built directly into the side of a hill on the campus of the University of San Diego. The seating bowl is comprised of rich, blue seats that curve from 1st to 3rd. The seating is pitched steeply so the seats rise up from the field rather than slope away. This results in a very intimate experience as fans look down on the playing surface, with no obstruction from the folks sitting in front.
Large retaining walls hold back the hillside along the right field line while the steep slope of the hill marks its descent along the left field line. Rising above the main stand are many levels, with a distinct character to each. Directly above the seating is a wide concourse where fans can stand and watch the game from on-high. There are long counters by the railing to set food and drinks while enjoying the game and the lovely views of steep, rolling hills beyond the outfield fence. This level contains facilities and concessions.
Above the concourse is the suite level with the press box and a few hospitality suites. These are farther above the field than you usually find at a small stadium and the view is big league, both of the field, and the mountains. Higher still is the Upper Concourse, where fans can stand and watch the action from a railing that would equal the mezzanine at a big-league park. Here you will also find the ticket both and main entrance, a dramatic arch befitting a ballpark designed to dazzle the senses.
Down the left field line are two more interesting areas. First, just beyond 3rd base above the seating bowl is an open space that can be used for parties and picnics and other group events. Travel a little farther towards the leftfield corner and down a short flight of stairs and you’ll find a miniature baseball field where the kids can play wiffle ball and dream their baseball dreams.
All of the levels are connected by a series of switchback staircases, like an Escher painting, if Escher were a baseball fan. Lastly, looming above the whole thing is the Jenny Craig Pavillion, which serves as the university’s basketball and indoor sports arena. This building is also stylishly outfitted with decorative arches adorning the sides. Many thanks to a member of the Fowler Park staff, for giving me free reign to roam and for unlocking the door that let me into the stadium. What I found beyond that door is one of the nicest baseball stadiums I have ever visited, college or professional. With a visionary design, flawless execution and superb maintenance, Fowler Park is a true gem nestled into the hills in northern San Diego.
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2026
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