Background
Northwestern Medicine Field was constructed in 1991 and its 10,923-seat capacity is the largest among United States-based unaffiliated teams. The Geneva, Illinois ballpark was originally known as Kane County Events Park, then in 1993 changed its name to Philip B. Elfstrom Stadium, only to change its name yet again in 2012 to Fifth Third Bank Ballpark, before finally taking on its current name in 2017. Despite its closeness to a lot of other professional baseball for people to see, the ballpark remains a hub of activity in the area.
Tenants
Kane County Cougars (1999-2019, Midwest League; 2021-present, American Association)
Game
July 11, 2024
Cleburne Railroaders 12 vs Kane County Cougars 5
Emilie
My first impression of Northwestern Medicine Field was that it was cute. It’s tucked back in a wooded area off a main road and everything about the stadium is reminiscent of a simpler time. I am an absolute sucker for kitsch, and this field really appealed to that part of me. From fun mascot statuary to the grass section that people brought their own lawn chairs to, everything about this park was very classically unfussy midwestern Americana.
I was genuinely surprised at how many people were in attendance for a Thursday night game. I’m somewhat used to the smaller crowds at our local American Association teams. Nothing really felt crowded, though, and lines for food, etc. moved quickly.
Speaking of the food, what we tried was good. It’s hard to go wrong with cheese fries, and I was actually pleasantly surprised at the quality of the burger I had. We checked out the team store, which was fairly picked over, particularly in terms of the hats they had available, but we still ended up finding something to take home.
The quality of the baseball we watched was good. It ended up being a pretty competitive game, but the highlight for me was, of course, the entertainment provided with the game. As stated, I love kitsch, and the ZOOperstars! are a lot of fun to watch. For anyone unfamiliar with their particular brand of inflatable entertainment, I highly recommend checking out a YouTube video.
On the whole, the experience at Northwestern Medicine Field was a good one. It hit on just about everything I enjoy about going to see live baseball, and I’d recommend the experience to anyone who finds themselves in the area.
Grade
A-
Bill
I have fond memories of Northwestern Medicine Field. I attended games at the stadium with my family as a teenager. That being said, my love for this ballpark is not rooted solely in nostalgia. In every way possible, Northwestern Medicine Field is a high-quality old-timey ballpark. It’s what I grew up thinking baseball should be and returning here oh so many years later to discover that it delivers the same experience was a real treat. From the forest backdrop to the vendors selling hot dogs in the stands, Northwestern Medicine Field has it all.
The moment you walk in the gates you are greeted by a choice to either turn left and head to the game or turn right and stroll over to the kids’ play area. The Cougars’ stadium houses a rather large play area with lots of options to keep children young and old entertained. The only real drawback to this area is that it is hidden behind right field and the stadium walls cut off much ability to view the game. Still, I always appreciate when a stadium has an area to entertain kids who can’t hold their own for an entire baseball game’s worth of concentrating.
There isn’t a bad seat in the house, as the picture above can attest to. The outfield seats are your standard bleacher-type as well as a party deck setup. Closer to the action there are traditional seats, while about ten or so rows up the seats become benches like one usually finds in the bleachers. I found the bench seats to work just fine, but I could see how someone’s mileage may vary as far as their comfort is concerned. The lawn seat section in right field also has an interesting twist where fans are allowed to bring their own chairs.
The stadium is easy to get to, though be prepared to sit in your car for a bit if you arrive close to game time as there exists only one true lane for cars to travel down to find parking spots. Speaking of parking, there are plenty of spots to choose from, though you may have to walk a bit to get to the front gates. The food is your standard Midwest fair of burgers, brats, and dogs, with a few specialty items mixed in. At the end of the day I’m a Midwest guy with a Midwest palette so you’re not about to hear any complaints from me about the food.
All in all, Northwestern Medicine Field provides a tremendous baseball-watching experience. The stadium is loaded with character and atmosphere. From the very moment you walk through the gate, you feel like you are at a minor league baseball game, or at least how a minor league baseball game should feel. I loved this stadium as a kid and I still love it as an adult. It’s not perfect, but it is a great time spent at a ballpark. That’s what I ask for from my baseball stadiums and that’s why I can’t recommend the small-town baseball vibes of Northwestern Medicine Field enough.
Grade
A
Lead photo courtesy of Emilie Thompson
