Welcome to Angel Stadium of Anaheim, a landmark in the city of Anaheim and the home ground of the Los Angeles Angels.
With a history spanning over five decades, this baseball stadium has seen countless memorable moments and remains a beloved destination for Angels fans and sports enthusiasts alike.
Whether attending a game, exploring its rich history, or just soaking in the atmosphere, this guide will help you make the most of your visit to Angel Stadium.
From Expansion Team to Major League Glory
The Angels Baseball® journey began in 1961 as one of Major League Baseball's first expansion teams. Initially playing at Wrigley Field and Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles, the team moved to Anaheim Stadium in 1966, where they have remained ever since.
The stadium, now known as the Big A, was built on a 140-acre site near major freeways and Disneyland, making it an easily accessible and iconic part of Orange County.
The Angels were founded by the legendary "Singing Cowboy," Gene Autry, who transformed the team from a minor league club to a major league powerhouse.
Over the years, Angel Stadium has been the stage for incredible feats, including Nolan Ryan's "immaculate inning" in 1972, Reggie Jackson's 500th career home run in 1984, and Albert Pujols' 650th career home run in 2019.
Moreover, the 2002 World Series Championship stands out as a highlight, where the Angels, as a playoff wild card, triumphed against the odds, leading fans to celebrate their first-ever World Series win!
Evolution and Renovation of Angel Stadium
Angel Stadium has undergone significant changes since its opening in 1966. Originally a three-tier structure with no outfield seating, the stadium's most prominent feature was the Big A scoreboard, a 230-foot-tall structure topped with a giant halo.
In the 1970s, the stadium expanded to accommodate the Los Angeles Rams, increasing the seating capacity by 23,000 seats and turning it into a multipurpose venue.
This expansion forced the removal of the Big A scoreboard towards the parking lot, with a smaller scoreboard added on the façade of the roof in left field.
In the 1990s, the California Angels sought to revert the Anaheim Stadium into a baseball-only facility. Moreover, in 1994, the Northridge Earthquake caused $4 million in damage - the 17.5-ton Sony Jumbotron crashed into the upper deck and destroyed 800 seats.
As such, after the end of that NFL season, the Rams relocated to St. Louis, allowing the Angels to focus on renovation.
The Disney Corporation purchased the team in 1996, leading a $100 million renovation project that modernized the stadium and reduced the seating capacity by half.
The renovation also introduced the California Spectacular, a stunning feature in the center field that includes a cascading waterfall and real trees, adding to the park's charm.
By 1998, the stadium, renamed Edison International Field of Anaheim, was complete, and the team became the Anaheim Angels.
Game Day Experience
Attending a game at Angel Stadium is a thrilling experience, offering various seating options, from field-level seats to the upper deck, each providing a unique view of the action. The Diamond Club and luxury suites offer a more premium experience.
Furthermore, a trip to the stadium is not complete without visiting the Angels Team Store, where visitors can purchase exclusive gear featuring their favorite Angels players like Mike Trout and more.
No visit to Angel Stadium is complete without savoring an Angel Dog or indulging in delicious nachos served in a big Angels helmet - both fan favorites.
Be sure to participate in the 7th-inning stretch tradition, singing along to "Build Me Up, Buttercup." Additionally, fans can enjoy themed firework shows after every Saturday night home game.
Moreover, for those looking to explore beyond the game, guided tours of the stadium are available on non-game days, offering insights into the stadium's history and behind-the-scenes access.
Guided Tours
Experience the magic of Angel Stadium with a 75-minute guided tour, which may include a visit to the field, a walk through the Angels' Dugout, and access to the Visitors' Clubhouse.
Guests will also enjoy exclusive views of the Gene Autry Suite, Broadcast Booth, Dugout Suite, and the Clubhouse Press Conference Room. Tours are available at 10:30 a.m., 12:30 p.m., and 2:30 p.m. on select days when the Angels are on the road. Buy your tour tickets online.
The Rally Monkey Tradition and Other Events
The Rally Monkey is a beloved tradition at Angel Stadium. If the Angels fall behind, the crowd is energized by the sight of the capuchin monkey dancing on the main scoreboard to House of Pain's "Jump Around."
This tradition is said to have helped the Angels come back from elimination during the 2002 World Series.
Furthermore, Angel Stadium has hosted numerous significant sports events, including the American League Championship Series, MLB All-Star Games, World Baseball Classic, and even concerts by legends like the Rolling Stones, Pink Floyd, David Bowie, and Paul McCartney.
Future of Angel Stadium
Looking forward, Angel Stadium is preparing for exciting changes. The Angels have announced plans for a renovation to modernize the stadium and revamp the surrounding parking lots into a dynamic district featuring housing, entertainment options, and commercial shops.
Additionally, in-stadium upgrades are planned, including a new fan experience area behind the outfield, where guests can enjoy a brewery, dine at new restaurants, and listen to live music.
These enhancements will ensure Angel Stadium remains a premier destination for baseball games and other live events in the years to come.
Visiting Angel Stadium
Located near major freeways like the Orange Freeway and Katella Avenue, Angel Stadium is easily accessible and has plenty of parking. However, the Anaheim Regional Transportation Intermodal Center also offers a convenient public transport option for visitors.
Moreover, as you walk towards the stadium, you are greeted by two giant Angel hats at the main entrance on E Gene Autry Way.
On our visit, under the left cap, a DJ was spinning tracks to set the pre-game mood, while under the right cap, Toyota sponsored a photo opportunity in the bed of a white Toyota Tacoma.
Nearby, a Mickey Mouse statue decked out in an Angels uniform added a fun, whimsical touch to the experience.
Food at Angel Stadium
Angel Stadium offers an impressive variety of food and drink options to satisfy any craving during the game.
Fans can choose from classic stadium favorites like hot dogs, burgers, French fries, and nachos or for heartier meals such as tacos, bowls, and sandwiches.
The stadium also serves a selection of sausages, bratwurst, fish dishes, and pizza. Chicken lovers will find everything from rotisserie chicken to sandwiches and various flavors of chicken tenders.
Angel Stadium accommodates dietary restrictions with gluten-free and vegetarian options, making sure all guests can enjoy the game-day experience.
A diverse selection of beer, cocktails, and wine is available throughout the stadium for adults. Additionally, a range of non-alcoholic beverages, including sodas, Icee, milk, and hot chocolate, are also offered.
Leave room for indulging in baseball snacks and treats, including cotton candy, chips, cookies, Cracker Jacks, Dippin' Dots, and ice cream.
For a refreshing option, lemonade stands are found all around the stadium. With so many choices, everyone will find something they love while cheering on the Angels.
Play Ball!
Whether you are a die-hard Angels fan or just visiting for a game, Angel Stadium of Anaheim offers an unforgettable experience.
From its storied past to its promising future, the Big A continues to be a shining gem in the world of baseball and a beloved landmark in Orange County. If you are interested in watching an Angels home game, you can purchase your Angels Tickets online.
Have you visited the Angels Stadium? Let me know in the comments below!
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