League Park

A Glimpse of Baseball History

League Park, nestled at the corner of East 66th Street and Lexington Avenue in Cleveland's Hough neighborhood, isn't just another park - it's a living piece of American baseball heritage. Built back in 1891, this ground has witnessed the evolution of America's favorite pastime through generations.

Over the years, the park welcomed various teams including the Cleveland Indians, Cleveland Spiders, and the Cleveland Buckeyes of the Negro American League, each adding their own chapter to its storied past.

When Legends Played Ball

Walk across this field and you're literally stepping where baseball history happened. Cy Young threw the first pitch here in 1891, while Addie Joss achieved perfection with his perfect game in 1908.

Babe Ruth's 500th home run soared over these grounds, and the park hosted both the first grand slam and the only unassisted triple play in World Series history during the 1920 series. There's something magical about standing in the same spots where greats like Ruth, Shoeless Joe Jackson, and Bob Feller once played their hearts out.

From Forgotten to Restored

After sitting neglected and partially demolished for years, League Park got a second chance in 2014 when the City of Cleveland invested $6.3 million in breathing new life into this historic site. Today, it stands proud as a public park with a beautifully restored playing field featuring artificial turf that maintains the quirky original dimensions - 290 feet to right field, a more challenging 380 feet to left field, and a cavernous 460 feet to center.

One of the few original structures that survived the years, the 1909 ticket office, now houses the Baseball Heritage Museum. The infield and outfield areas are well-maintained and in good condition.

Step Into Baseball's Past

The Baseball Heritage Museum offers a fascinating journey through Cleveland's rich baseball legacy. You'll come across a treasure trove of memorabilia and exhibits celebrating the Cleveland Indians, the Negro League's Cleveland Buckeyes, Latin and Jewish players, and notable amateur teams that shaped the city's sporting culture.

The museum's staff and guides are knowledgeable and enthusiastic about the game's history. Regulars often mention Brenda and Todd for their exceptional tours and genuine passion for baseball's past.

More Than History

The renovation has transformed League Park into a space that beautifully balances its historical significance with modern community needs. Today, you might catch the Cleveland State Vikings baseball team in action, watch high school games, or even participate in charity softball events.

You can find clean restrooms, comfortable bleacher seating, and street parking all around the stadium. Many locals enjoy it as a quiet spot for morning walks, afternoon reading, or simply relaxing.

Around the grounds, small details capture the park's spirit, like the large baseball inlaid in the cement on the main walkway between the restrooms and museum. For baseball enthusiasts, League Park offers a connection to the golden era of the game in a relatively uncrowded setting.