There's nothing better then getting outside on a sunny day and watching a major league baseball game. The smell of hotdogs, the cheers of fans and the greener-than-life grass make for a wonderful experience. Of course each of these different aspects can dictate what you'll consider you're favorite stadium. Having lived in a few different places and traveled to a few different stadiums, there are a few that stand out as clear winners.

1. If it's the smell of the hotdogs, or maybe just food in general that you like, San Francisco's AT&T's park has a number of ballpark standards as well as things that you may not expect to find within the confines of a stadium. Make sure to try the garlic fries, assuming your neighbor doesn't mind the smell. Wander out to center field to get one of the unique Jamaican jerk chicken bowls (how this became a San Francisco tradition, I do not know!).

2. One of my favorite stadiums for the cheers of the fans is the old St. Louis Bush stadium (I haven't been to the new stadium, but I assume the fans have migrated over as well). St. Louis is a great baseball town and the fans are not unknowledgeable but are more friendly than you'll find at other big baseball cities like Boston and New York. Wear your cardinal red and bring along a radio, and you are sure to make some new friends in neighboring seats!

3. For greenery, I'd have to recommend an old favorite, Chicago's Wrigley field. The ground-keepers do an excellent job maintaining the field, despite the foul winter weather. And, of course the added greenery on the outfield wall (the fabled ivy), provides an extra touch of uniqueness not seen in most stadiums today with the more common padded plastic walls.

But in reality, no matter which stadium you choose to go to, you are guaranteed to have a good time. It might not pack the second-by-second thrills of the NBA or the hard-hitting action of the NFL, but baseball on a relaxing afternoon game in the summer sun truly lives up to its billing as America's favorite pastime. Bring a friend, bring binoculars, and don't forget your glove!

Learn more about this author, Jorge Paniolo.
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