Turner Field

Turner Field, located in Atlanta, Georgia, holds a special place in the chronicles of baseball history. Known affectionately as “The Ted” after its namesake, Ted Turner, this stadium was not just a ballpark but a symbol of the Atlanta Braves’ golden era in Major League Baseball (MLB).

Stadium Facts about Turner Field

  • Location: Atlanta, Georgia
  • Opened On: March 29, 1997
  • Closed On: October 2, 2016
  • Home Team: Atlanta Braves (National League)
  • Stadium Nicknames: “The Ted”
  • Dimensions: Left Field – 335 feet, Center Field – 400 feet, Right Field – 330 feet
  • Capacity: Originally 50,000, reduced to 49,586
  • Attendance Record: 54,357 (2003 NLDS Game 5)
  • Surface: Grass
  • Architect: Heery International, Rosser International, Williams-Russell and Johnson, Inc., and Ellerbe Becket
  • Owner: Atlanta Fulton County Recreation Authority

The History

Turner Field’s origins trace back to the 1996 Summer Olympics, where it served as the main stadium. Post-Olympics, it was converted into a baseball park and became the home of the Atlanta Braves in 1997, replacing the historic Atlanta-Fulton County Stadium. The Braves played at Turner Field until 2016, after which they moved to SunTrust Park (now Truist Park).

During its two decades, Turner Field was a centerpiece of Atlanta’s sports landscape and was instrumental in fostering a robust baseball culture in the city.

Design and Features

Initially designed for the Olympics, Turner Field was reconfigured into a baseball-specific stadium. Its design included a traditional layout with a grass playing surface and seating arrangements that offered excellent sightlines for baseball fans. The stadium was known for its state-of-the-art video board and sound system, which enhanced the game-day experience.

One of the unique features of Turner Field was its incorporation of the Braves’ rich history, including a museum and Hall of Fame, and statues of legendary Braves players, creating a link between past and present.

Renovations

During its operation as a baseball stadium, Turner Field underwent several renovations to improve the fan experience and keep up with modern standards. These included updates to the seating areas, enhancements to the concourses, and expansion of the premium and club seating options.

The stadium also saw technological upgrades, including improvements to the video and sound systems, to enhance the overall experience for fans.

Facilities

Turner Field boasted a variety of facilities that catered to a wide range of fans. The stadium offered diverse food and beverage options, from traditional ballpark fare to more upscale dining experiences. The seating areas were comfortable and provided great views of the field, while the suites and club areas offered more luxurious amenities.

The stadium was also known for its family-friendly environment, featuring areas for kids’ entertainment and interactive exhibits, making it a popular destination for fans of all ages.

Memorable Moments at Turner Field

  • 1997 Inaugural Game: The opening of Turner Field as the Braves’ home.
  • 1999 World Series: Hosting games against the New York Yankees.
  • 2000 MLB All-Star Game: Showcasing the best of baseball talent.
  • Bobby Cox’s Final Game: The legendary manager’s last home game in 2010.
  • Chipper Jones’ Career: Hosting the entirety of the Braves’ legend’s illustrious career.

Interesting Baseball History at Turner Field

  • Division Titles: The Braves won numerous NL East titles while calling Turner Field home.
  • Pitching Dominance: The era of Greg Maddux, Tom Glavine, and John Smoltz.
  • Postseason Appearances: Hosting several memorable playoff games and series.
  • Celebrating Braves’ History: The stadium served as a living museum of the Braves’ storied history.

Non-Baseball Events

Beyond baseball, Turner Field hosted a variety of events, highlighting its versatility as a venue. It was a site for concerts, football games, including college football matchups, and other significant gatherings. These non-baseball events underscored the stadium’s role as a multi-use facility in Atlanta, capable of accommodating a wide range of entertainment and sports events. The variety of events held at Turner Field illustrated its importance in the broader cultural and entertainment landscape of Atlanta.