NewBridge Bank Ballpark

On Monday, July 5, my good friend Paul and I attended NewBridge Bank Ballpark to see the Greensboro Grasshoppers host the Lakewood BlueClaws. The previous night, the game was sold out due to the fireworks show on 4th of July. It was sold out by the time I looked for tickets, so Paul and I decided to go to the day game on Monday. It was a very humid day at the park.

NewBridge Bank Ballpark opened up for play in 2005 after Greensboro minor league teams played their games at old World War Memorial Stadium since 1930. It was originally known as First Horizon Park until the current name change.

We had great seats behind home plate in which we were only a few rows away from the playing field. But because of the glaring sun and humidity, we didn't stay in out seats the entire time. I bought some sunscreen at their gift shop knowing I was bound to get sun burned if I didn't. Hey, at least we didn't pay for parking since we arrived early and the attendant said that the area we parked in was soon to be filled by fans and employees of businesses in the area.

Former Detroit Tigers great second baseman "Sweet" Lou Whitaker was on hand throwing out the first pitch for this game. However, this hot day belonged to the BlueClaws.

The BlueClaws got a big day out of shortstop Jonathan Villar who had four hits and an RBI in a 7-2 win. He also was a part of four double plays that were turned by Lakewood. Greensboro only had five hits, and had a bases loaded situation ended in the 8th inning after a strikeout. It was Greensboro's fourth straight loss at the time.

My review of NewBridge Bank Ballpark

The bad: There isn't much in the way of bad at this park. The only thing of note is that there isn't the variety of restaurants to eat at it compared to some sports venues I've been to. For those that don't eat at ballparks, this is really a non-issue. It is in downtown Greensboro, so night games could be troublesome for those who can't leave early enough to get to the park as the game starts.

The good: The parking is free directly across the street from the ballpark provided you get there early enough. If not, then it's probably only $5(not sure on that) like it was at the previous park. The ballpark has nice statues which includes a great mascot one sitting on a bench. There is no bad seat in the house, and the ticket prices are as good as it gets. The total for two adult tickets that I bought for the game was $18, and that was for seats just a few rows away behind home plate.

Overall: The ticket prices, parking, and scenery make this minor league park a good one to visit. Though it is in downtown, it is a great place to watch baseball at a very affordable price which is always good especially during these economic times.

More info about NewBridge Bank Ballpark:
408 Bellemeade Street
Greensboro, NC 27401
It is located close to the campus of UNCG as well as Greensboro College.
Check my site for more pics of NewBridge Bank Park