Great American Ball Park sits right on the banks of the Ohio River in downtown Cincinnati, and it’s one of the most scenic baseball parks in the country. Since 2003, this stadium has been home to the Cincinnati Reds, the team that literally started professional baseball. Whether you’re catching a Reds game this season or just planning a trip to the city, this guide covers everything you need to know before you go.
Key Takeaways
- Great American Ball Park has a capacity of 43,500 and features unique elements like the two smokestacks, The Gap, and Crosley Terrace.
- The ballpark is located at 100 Joe Nuxhall Way in downtown Cincinnati, steps from restaurants, bars, and the riverfront.
- Fans can visit the Reds Hall of Fame and Museum, take a guided stadium tour, and attend concerts and events beyond the regular baseball season.
- CozySuites offers stylish apartments and condos in Cincinnati, giving you a comfortable home base near the action.
Ready to book your stay for the next big game? Browse CozySuites apartments and condos in Ohio and stay just minutes from the ballpark.
History of the Great American Ball Park
From Riverfront Stadium to a New Era
The Cincinnati Reds have a rich history that stretches back to 1882, making them one of the oldest franchises in baseball. For decades, both the Reds and the Cincinnati Bengals shared Riverfront Stadium, a multi-purpose venue that opened in 1970. By the mid-1990s, both teams pushed for their own dedicated stadiums, arguing that the aging facility lacked the amenities needed to compete.
In 1996, Hamilton County voters approved a half-cent sales tax increase to fund the construction of separate venues for each team. Groundbreaking for the new stadium took place in August 2000, and the project cost approximately $290 million.
Construction and the Partial Demolition of Cinergy Field
Building a new ballpark on the Cincinnati riverfront was no simple task. The limited land between the former Riverfront Stadium site (later renamed Cinergy Field) and what is now Heritage Bank Center forced construction crews to work in tight quarters. This led to the partial demolition of Cinergy Field while construction was still underway.
The old stadium was fully demolished on December 29, 2002. Great American Ball Park officially opened on March 31, 2003, with the Reds hosting the Pittsburgh Pirates.
Pro Tip: The lease agreement between the Reds and Hamilton County originally required $2.5 million in annual rent for the first 9 years, then dropped to just $1 per year.
The Joe Nuxhall Legacy
The ballpark’s original address was 100 Main Street. After the passing of beloved pitcher and broadcaster Joe Nuxhall in 2007, it was changed to 100 Joe Nuxhall Way. A sign reading “rounding third and heading for home,” Nuxhall’s famous sign-off phrase, is displayed on the third base side exterior of the park.
Ballpark Features and What to See
Great American Ball Park is packed with nods to the Reds’ history and one-of-a-kind design elements that make it stand out among other baseball parks.
The Gap
A 35-foot-wide break in the stands between home plate and third base, known as “The Gap,” is one of the ballpark’s most talked-about features. It’s aligned with Sycamore Street and gives fans inside the park a direct view of the Cincinnati skyline. From the outside, it offers a glimpse of the action on the field.
The Power Stacks
In right center field, you’ll spot the iconic two smokestacks that pay tribute to the steamboats that once traveled the Ohio River. When a Reds player hits a home run, fireworks launch from the stacks. Strikeouts send flames shooting out. The seven baseball bats on each smokestack add up to 14, symbolizing Pete Rose’s jersey number.
Crosley Terrace
Just outside the main entrance on Joe Nuxhall Way, the Crosley Terrace honors Crosley Field, the Reds’ home from 1912 to 1970. Bronze statues of Joe Nuxhall, Ernie Lombardi, Ted Kluszewski, and Frank Robinson are arranged as if playing an imaginary game. The terrace’s grass area has the same slope as the original left field terrace at Crosley Field.
The Rose Garden
Adjacent to the stadium and the Reds Hall of Fame, there was once a rose garden symbolizing Pete Rose’s record-breaking 4,192nd hit. The ball landed around this area in Riverfront Stadium. This area has since been updated as part of the 2019 construction of the 1869 Pavilion.
Reds Hall of Fame and Museum
Located on the west side of Great American Ball Park on Main Street, the Reds Hall of Fame and Museum celebrates the franchise’s history through galleries, multimedia exhibits, and player appearances. The Reds Hall has been recognizing great players since 1958 and is open year-round.
The Machine Room and BetMGM Sportsbook
The Machine Room is home to the BetMGM Sportsbook, which opened for the 2023 season. It features three betting windows, 15 self-service kiosks, a full-service bar, and food options. It’s a popular spot for fans who want to place bets and grab a drink during the game.
Seating Sections and Where to Sit
Choosing the right seats can make or break your experience at any ballpark. Great American Ball Park has a capacity of 43,500, with a variety of seating sections spread across multiple levels.
| Seating Level | What to Expect | Best For |
| Field Level (100s) | Closest to the action, near home plate, first base, and third base | Die-hard fans wanting to be near the play |
| Upper Deck (200s-300s) | Elevated views of the field and the Ohio River skyline | Fans on a budget who still want great sightlines |
| Left Field Bleachers | Casual, energetic atmosphere in left field | Groups and fans looking for a fun, social vibe |
| Luxury Suites | Private suites with premium food and beverage service | Corporate outings and special occasions |
| Sun/Moon Deck (Right Field) | Open-air seating in right field | Fans who want a relaxed, standing-room feel |
Pro Tip: If you’re attending on a budget, the upper deck along the third-base line offers some of the best views of the Ohio River and the Kentucky skyline. You can still see every play clearly from there.
The stands fill up fast for weekend games and Opening Day, so buying tickets in advance is always a smart move.
Getting to the Ballpark
Great American Ball Park is located at 100 Joe Nuxhall Way, Cincinnati, OH 45202, right in the heart of the city’s riverfront district.
- By Car: The ballpark is accessible from I-71 and I-75. On-site parking is available (credit card only on game days), and third-party lots are scattered throughout downtown Cincinnati. Check the official parking and directions page for updated routes and detours.
- By Streetcar: The Cincinnati Bell Connector streetcar is free to ride and runs a 3.6-mile loop connecting The Banks, Downtown, and Over-the-Rhine. Station 1 at The Banks is steps from the ballpark.
- By Rideshare: Designated rideshare drop-off zones are available near the park on game days.
Pro Tip: Parking can get pricey near the stadium on game days. Consider parking a few blocks north in the downtown Cincinnati area and walking down. The views of the city along the way are worth it.
Tours of Great American Ball Park
You don’t need a game day ticket to experience the ballpark. Guided tours run year-round and give fans a behind-the-scenes look at the home of the Reds.
Tour stops include:
- Crosley Terrace
- The Handlebar
- Champions Club
- Scouts Club
- Lexus Diamond Club
- Warning Track
- Visitor and Home Dugouts
Pricing:
- Adults: $30 (Mon-Fri), $35 (Sat-Sun)
- Kids (ages 5-12): $20
- Military (active/veteran with I.D.): $20
- Kids 4 and under: Free
Tours last approximately 75 to 90 minutes and cover about three-quarters of a mile. From October through March, VIP Major League Clubhouse Tours are also available on Saturdays, giving fans access to the Reds Clubhouse, batting tunnels, and broadcast booths.
Concerts and Events Beyond Baseball
Great American Ball Park isn’t just for baseball. The stadium regularly hosts concerts and special events throughout the seasons, making it a year-round entertainment destination in Cincinnati.
Past performers include Paul McCartney, Beyoncé, Billy Joel, P!nk, Foo Fighters, and Green Day. The excitement of seeing a major artist play with the Ohio River as a backdrop is hard to beat.
The ballpark is also available for private events, corporate gatherings, and group outings on non-game days. Check the official events page for upcoming concerts and availability.
What’s Nearby in Cincinnati
The location of Great American Ball Park puts you within walking distance of some of Cincinnati’s best neighborhoods and attractions.
- The Banks: The mixed-use development right next to the ballpark, packed with restaurants, bars, and shops along the riverfront.
- Over-the-Rhine (OTR): A short streetcar ride north, this trendy neighborhood is full of craft breweries, local restaurants, and galleries.
- Smale Riverfront Park: A beautiful green space stretching along the Ohio River, perfect for a pre-game walk.
- Heritage Bank Center (formerly U.S. Bank Arena): Located right next door, this arena hosts concerts, hockey games (Cincinnati Cyclones), and other live events year-round.
The Visit Cincy tourism board has a full rundown of sports and activities across the city if you’re hoping to fill your trip with more than just baseball.
Where to Stay Near Great American Ball Park
If you’re visiting Cincinnati for a Reds game, a concert, or just to explore the city, you’ll want a comfortable place that feels like home. CozySuites offers stylish apartments and condos in Ohio that give you the space and comfort of home with the standards of a hotel.
Our Cincinnati properties are well-located for getting to the ballpark and exploring the rest of the city. You’ll get a full kitchen, fast Wi-Fi, and a clean, modern space, perfect for business travelers, families, or groups of fans making a weekend out of it.
FAQ
What is the seating capacity of Great American Ball Park?
Great American Ball Park has a current seating capacity of 43,500. This was adjusted from 42,319 starting in the 2021 season.
Has a no-hitter ever been thrown at Great American Ball Park?
Yes. Homer Bailey pitched the first no-hitter in the history of Great American Ball Park on July 2, 2013, beating the San Francisco Giants 3-0. Jake Arrieta of the Chicago Cubs also no-hit the Reds at the park on April 21, 2016.
Have the Toronto Blue Jays played at Great American Ball Park?
Yes. The Toronto Blue Jays have visited Great American Ball Park for interleague games. A memorable moment came on June 17, 2011, when Drew Stubbs hit the first inside-the-park home run by the Reds at the stadium during a game against the Blue Jays.
What happened to Cinergy Field before the new ballpark was built?
Cinergy Field (originally called Riverfront Stadium) was the previous home of both the Reds and the Cincinnati Bengals. Due to limited land on the riverfront, construction of the new stadium required the partial demolition of Cinergy Field while the building was still in progress. The old stadium was fully demolished in December 2002.
What was the original address of Great American Ball Park?
The original address was 100 Main Street. After broadcaster and former Reds player Joe Nuxhall passed away in 2007, the street was renamed, and the address changed to 100 Joe Nuxhall Way.
Is the Great American Ball Park good for families on a budget?
Yes. The TriHealth Family Zone offers activities for kids, a nursing suite, and a lounge area with views of the field. For budget-friendly seating, the left field bleachers and upper deck sections offer affordable tickets while still providing solid views of the game. Kids 4 and under get free admission on ballpark tours.
