As far as minor league ballparks go, you’ll have a tough time beating El Paso’s Southwest University Park. This downtown ballpark, which cost $78 million to build and opened at the start of the 2014 season, is one of the gems of the Pacific Coast League and a must-see park for any baseball traveler. Like many newer minor league facilities, it features a 360-degree concourse that allows you to see the field from wherever you’re standing or walking, an outstanding view from home plate and many more features that can make it appealing for the whole family.
One of the most notable spots in the ballpark is the stylish four-level Big Dog House in the right field corner. It’s a spot for every fan to check out, and you can easily spend a considerable percentage of the game enjoying this location. The second level of the Big Dog House is known as City Hall Grill, which is a full-service restaurant and bar that any fan can enter. The third level is home to the Sun Kings Saloon, another full-service eatery. Groups frequently book this spot, but if it hasn’t been sold for the game, any fan can visit it. Be sure to take some time to check out the displays that pay homage to El Paso’s rich professional baseball history. Make your way up to the fourth level, and you’ll be in the Big Dog House. It’s another spot that groups frequently book, but that individual fans can visit when no group is present. It features a bar and perhaps the best views of the ballpark, and of Mexico in the distance.
Southwest University Park has one of the best children’s play areas that you can find in the minor leagues. On top of the usual play structures, there’s a large splash pad. It’s a perfect way for children to beat the Texas heat. The ballpark has a pair of team shops. The flagship shop is located behind home plate, while a smaller shop is found on the ground floor of the Santa Fe Pavilion in right-center field. You’ll find not only Chihuahuas merchandise, but also gear from the El Paso Locomotive, the United Soccer League franchise that shares Southwest University Park.
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