Nestled along the banks of the Allegheny River, with the iconic Roberto Clemente Bridge and the Pittsburgh skyline as its backdrop, PNC Park stands as one of the most picturesque ballparks in Major League Baseball. Boasting one of the smallest seating capacities in the league, every seat offers an excellent view of the action. PNC Park is a dramatic departure from the Pirates’ former home, Three Rivers Stadium. Known for its utilitarian design and lack of charm, the multipurpose Three Rivers Stadium featured uninspiring views and distant, multicolored seating surrounding its Astroturf field, which was shared with the NFL’s Steelers. Built in the early 1970s, it epitomized the era’s trend of circular, concrete multipurpose stadiums designed to maximize seating capacity rather than fan experience.

By the 1990s, the landscape of professional baseball had shifted, with new ballparks offering enhanced fan experiences and additional revenue streams. Recognizing the need for change, Pirates ownership began exploring options for a new home. In 1991, Pittsburgh Mayor Sophie Masloff proposed a 44,000-seat ballpark on the city’s North Shore, near Three Rivers Stadium. However, interest waned as the Pirates transitioned from a playoff contender in the early 1990s to one of the league’s worst teams. The franchise’s future in Pittsburgh grew uncertain in 1994 when the team was put up for sale, raising the possibility of relocation.

The Pirates’ fortunes turned in 1996 when Kevin McClatchy purchased the team and collaborated with city officials to develop a new ballpark. Originally dubbed “Forbes Field II,” the design drew inspiration from the Pirates’ pre-Three Rivers home, Forbes Field. In August 1998, PNC Financial Services acquired naming rights, and construction on the $216 million ballpark began in April 1999.

PNC Park opened on April 9, 2001, with the Pirates facing the Cincinnati Reds in their inaugural game. Fans entering through the Roberto Clemente Bridge or the home plate gates are greeted by a ballpark that evokes the charm of a bygone era. Its limestone facade, terra cotta-tiled pilasters, dramatic masonry arches, and flat green steel roof contribute to its timeless appeal. Statues of Pirates legends Roberto Clemente, Bill Mazeroski, Willie Stargell, and Honus Wagner adorn the exterior, adding to its storied ambiance.

Inside, fans ascend via stairs, ramps, or escalators to the main concourse and upper levels, where they are rewarded with breathtaking views of downtown Pittsburgh. With a seating capacity of 38,362, PNC Park ensures an intimate and engaging experience for all attendees. The main grandstand features two primary seating decks that stretch from the right-field foul pole to home plate and around to the left-field foul pole. Luxury suites are seamlessly integrated between the lower and upper decks, while the press box is strategically positioned at the top of the upper deck to allow closer seating for fans.

PNC Park’s design prioritizes visibility, with a 360-degree concourse that allows fans to view the field and skyline from anywhere in the stadium. The outfield features bleacher seating in left field, while right field offers the opportunity to snag home run balls. A unique touch is the 21-foot-high right field wall, a tribute to Roberto Clemente’s jersey number, which incorporates an out-of-town scoreboard. A 42-foot by 24-foot HD video board located behind the left-field bleachers enhances the game-day experience.

The ballpark’s amenities far surpass those of Three Rivers Stadium. A casual dining restaurant above the left-field bleachers provides stunning views of both the field and the city, while two food courts—Smorgasburgh and Pop’s Plaza—offer a mix of local specialties and traditional ballpark fare. Along General Robinson Street, fans can find establishments like Diamond Pizza and Atria’s Restaurant, accessible from both inside and outside the park.

The River Walk promenade, located along the outer edge of PNC Park, offers panoramic views of the city, river, and field, creating a lively gathering space. Highlights include Manny’s BBQ, where fans can enjoy local flavors, and the Budweiser Bowtie Bar, a U-shaped bar in the right-field corner offering scenic views of the game and downtown Pittsburgh.

Since its opening in 2001, PNC Park has maintained its status as one of the most beautiful ballparks in baseball. Its intimate setting, classic design, and spectacular views of the Pittsburgh skyline make it a beloved destination for baseball fans nationwide.

PNC Park Pictures