ONT Field, the home of the Ontario Tower Buzzers — the Los Angeles Dodgers' Single-A affiliate — has been named the 2026 Ballpark of the Year by BaseballParks.com. The award recognizes the venue's exceptional fan experience and its role in elevating Minor League Baseball standards.
The ballpark, developed by global design firm Populous in collaboration with the City of Ontario, Diamond Baseball Holdings, and the Ontario Tower Buzzers, stands out for its unique aviation theme. This design choice is a nod to the nearby Ontario International Airport (ONT), which serves as a key gateway for the region.
Aviation-inspired design
Key features include a center-field food hall styled after a baggage claim carousel, and a left-field concourse designed as an interactive runway. A vintage airplane lights up after every home run, adding to the immersive experience that has quickly made the ballpark a community favorite.
Allan Benevides, General Manager of the Ontario Tower Buzzers, said, "ONT Field is the realization of a vision that could only happen in Ontario." The venue's commitment to storytelling and fan engagement has created a beloved home for baseball in the region.
The award also shines a spotlight on Ontario International Airport, which has become a vital transport hub. Ranked as the second most popular mid-sized airport by J.D. Power, ONT handles over 7 million passengers annually and offers nonstop service to major cities across the U.S., Mexico, Central America, and Taiwan.
Atif Elkadi, CEO of the Ontario International Airport Authority, expressed pride in the recognition, noting the airport's role in connecting the region to global destinations and enhancing the local experience. The synergy between the airport and the ballpark underscores Ontario's growing appeal as a destination for both business and leisure travel.
For travel professionals, the award highlights how infrastructure and entertainment can combine to boost a destination's profile. Ontario's investment in such attractions, coupled with its airport connectivity, positions it as a compelling stop for sports tourism and regional travel.
As the travel industry continues to seek unique experiences, venues like ONT Field demonstrate the value of placemaking. The ballpark's success may inspire similar projects at other airports and cities looking to differentiate themselves.
For more on innovative travel experiences, see how Wonderfruit 2026 transforms fields into a festival village, or check out recent hotel openings in tech corridors. The trend of blending local culture with travel infrastructure is also evident in award-winning glamping resorts and luxury resort accolades.
