The state of North Carolina is blessed with a vast array of good minor league ballparks, and there’s little question that the one in Durham challenges for the top spot on the list. Durham Bulls Athletic Park, home to the Bulls of the Triple-A International League, is a park that should be on the radar of every ballpark traveler. DBAP, as it’s commonly known, opened in 1995. Its architect was the renowned firm Populous, which has designed many notable parks throughout the majors and minors.
When you visit Durham Bulls Athletic Park, there are few indicators that the facility was around in the 1990s. Numerous upgrades throughout the years have given the ballpark a modern feel that still pays tribute to designs of the past. No visit to DBAP is complete without spending some time walking the neighborhood before the gates open. The American Tobacco Campus, which sits adjacent to the ballpark, is fun to explore. You’ll note that DBAP’s brick design helps it to fit into the buildings on the campus, many of which date back more than a century. Prior to entering DBAP, be sure to take in the retired number plaques, including the #8 of the real-life “Crash” Davis. You’ll also want to note the impressive water fountains, which offer a big-league feel.
There are lots of areas to check out once you enter the park, but every visit should begin with a walk toward left field to enjoy the famous “Hit Bull, Win Steak” sign that looms high above the Blue Monster fence. The sign isn’t the original one that was displayed at old Durham Athletic Park and the “Bull Durham” movie, but it’s a faithful recreation. The Bulls are arguably the most well-known franchise in the minor leagues, and the bull sign might very well be the most iconic image at this level of the game.
Durham Bulls Athletic Park features a 360-degree concourse, and you’ll enjoy the sightlines as you make your way around. You’ll notice the Tobacco Road Sports Cafe, which is situated behind the left field concourse. Many fans visit the establishment for pregame drinks and snacks, before making their way to the ballpark gates. Other fans stay at the eatery and watch the game from a seat on the patio. DBAP has a large grass berm in center field and a wide-open concourse behind right field, which is somewhat reminiscent of Eutaw Street beyond right field at Baltimore’s Oriole Park at Camden Yards.
From the first base concourse, you’ll enjoy a view of the American Tobacco Campus in the distance. This part of the ballpark is especially enjoyable to visit as the sun sets, as the sky over the campus often looks beautiful. The concourse behind home plate is covered, and features numerous concession stands. Take note of the team shop, which is one of the biggest that you’ll encounter in the minor leagues. If you’re visiting with kids, there’s a sizable children’s play area beyond the right field corner.
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