Petco Park
& the San Diego Padres

Petco Park is reminscent of the good ol' days...

For generations, baseball has been called the national past-time, and it still holds true today. In Southern California, the people cheer for their beloved San Diego Padres while filling the stands at Petco Park. This incredible stadium holds over 42,000 fans, and is designed to allow almost everyone a perfect view of their favorite team.

Beyond the outfield fence at Petco Park is an almost 3 acre section called The Park At The Park, and is a wonderful place for the entire family to gather before the big game. There is a place for the kids to play, a brick plaza, groves of beautiful trees, and a statue of Hall of Famer, Tony Gwynn. On non-event days, this serves as a neighborhood park, but on game days, the Park At The Park opens 2 ½ hours before game time as a place for all to gather.

The San Diego Padres became an official team in 1968, with Preston Gomez being appointed as the first manager and Ollie Brown their first draft choice. Their first game was played on April 8, 1969 against Houston, which they won 2-1. And in 1984, the Padres won their first NL pennant title and a trip to their first World Series.

The team works hard to better their community through scholarships and coaching programs. In 1972, The Madres was formed as way to sponsor little league teams. At that time, there were two teams, and now more than 23,000 children play little league baseball on the many Little Padres Parks. The Padres also reach out to the community through programs such as the Charity Ticket Program and the Padres Foundation for Children.

Throughout the years, the San Diego Padres has grown from a small Pacific Coast league to a team that can hold their own in the majors. From their charity work, to the tranquil Park at the Park, it’s no wonder that this team is one of Southern California’s greatest assets.

Return to San Diego attractions info

Go from Petco Park to San Diego Vacations home