Hodgetown Travel Guide

Thinking about a baseball adventure in Texas? You’ll find HODGETOWN tucked right into downtown Amarillo—a modern stadium with plenty of classic charm. It opened as the home field for the Amarillo Sod Poodles, the Double-A affiliate of the San Diego Padres. This state-of-the-art ballpark sports an art deco-inspired facade and offers guided tours that run about 45-60 minutes if you want to see the place beyond just game day.

If you’re planning a visit, keep in mind that HODGETOWN sits on South Buchanan Street, a busy one-way road cutting through downtown. The stadium actually stands where a Coca-Cola bottling facility used to be, so there’s a little local history mixed in with your baseball. Like most big stadiums, you can’t bring in your own food or drinks, and, yeah, concessions will cost you—about double what you’d pay at a chain restaurant, if reviews are anything to go by.

Overview of Hodgetown

HODGETOWN has become Amarillo’s top baseball spot, giving visitors a modern ballpark with great amenities, easy downtown access, and a real sense of community.

History and Significance

The Amarillo Sod Poodles, Double-A affiliate of the San Diego Padres, call HODGETOWN home. They built the stadium on land that once held a Coca-Cola bottling facility right in downtown Amarillo.

This ballpark means more than just baseball—it really shows how Amarillo has tried to breathe new life into its downtown. The name “HODGETOWN” honors a local businessman who played a big part in shaping the city.

Since opening, the stadium has quickly turned into a community gathering place. It doesn’t just host baseball games; you’ll find concerts and special events happening year-round, so there’s always something going on for locals and visitors.

Key Features

The stadium greets you with an art deco-inspired facade that nods to classic ballparks, but inside, everything feels pretty modern. Here’s a quick look at what you’ll find:

• A 360-degree concourse with full field visibility
• Premium seating, including luxury suites
• Family-friendly zones with play spaces for kids
• Several food and drink concessions, some featuring local eats

If you want the best experience, try grabbing seats behind the dugouts near home plate. You’ll get a great view of the field and the downtown skyline.

With a capacity around 7,000, the stadium feels intimate, and honestly, there aren’t really any bad seats.

Location and Accessibility

You’ll find HODGETOWN right on South Buchanan Street, a busy one-way road in downtown Amarillo. Its central spot makes it pretty easy to reach from anywhere in the city.

Arrive a bit early so you have time for security screening—they use metal detectors at every entrance. You can park in several nearby lots and garages, all within a short walk.

City buses stop just a few blocks away, and rideshare apps like Uber and Lyft work well for drop-off and pick-up.

Because the stadium sits downtown, you’re just steps from restaurants, shops, and hotels. It’s easy to turn a game into an all-day outing.

Attending a Game at Hodgetown

Catching a game at Hodgetown feels pretty personal—modern amenities, fun for families, and good views from just about anywhere. The stadium’s design helps everyone find a spot that fits their budget and their vibe.

Ticket Options and Pricing

Ticket prices for Amarillo Sod Poodles games cover a range of budgets. The Grass Berm seating is the cheapest at about $8—great if your kids want to run around. General admission runs $10-12, and reserved seats cost $14-18, depending on where you sit.

If you want a little luxury, Club Level seats ($24-28) come with air-conditioned indoor areas and fancier food. The Dugout Suites put you right next to the players, but you’ll need a group for those.

When the Sod Poodles play rivals like the San Antonio Missions, prices can go up a bit due to demand. If you want to catch those games—especially on weekends—buy your tickets early.

Seating Guide

With about 7,000 seats, Hodgetown keeps you close to the action no matter where you sit. The lower bowl, especially sections 104-108 behind home plate, gives you the best views.

Sections 109-114 along first base put you near the Sod Poodles dugout. If you’ve got little ones, sections 115-119 along third base are closer to play areas and most of the in-game entertainment.

The Club Level (second deck) offers padded seats, wider rows, and waitstaff service. These sections get shade earlier in the evening—a real bonus when Amarillo heats up.

If you’re looking to save, the outfield Grass Berm lets you toss down a blanket and still see everything. The ballpark’s intimate design makes even the farthest seats feel close.

Game Day Experience

Try to get there at least 30 minutes before the first pitch so you can breeze through security. Metal detectors are at every entrance, and Hodgetown enforces a clear bag policy—so bring a transparent bag, or just leave bags behind.

Food-wise, you’ll find the usual ballpark classics plus local specialties like Texas BBQ and Tex-Mex. Concession lines can get long, especially on the main concourse. Try the stands near sections 115-119 or show up early to avoid the rush.

There’s always something happening between innings—games, contests, goofy activities. The “Sod Poodles Anthem” has become a thing, so maybe learn the words for the seventh-inning stretch.

Before you settle into your seat, take a lap around the stadium. The concourse gives you home run views of the outfield and some cool displays about local baseball history. On hot days, you’ll appreciate the cooling stations scattered around.

Events and Activities Beyond Baseball

Hodgetown isn’t just about baseball. The stadium regularly turns into a venue for all kinds of entertainment and community events, so there’s usually something going on, even in the off-season.

Special Events and Concerts

All season long, Hodgetown hosts theme nights and holiday celebrations. The Independence Day bash (July 4-6) is a big deal, with fireworks and all sorts of activities.

A few times each year, the stadium becomes a concert venue, drawing national acts to Amarillo. For these shows, the field turns into standing room, and you can still get reserved seats in the stands.

You can also catch high school and college baseball games at Hodgetown. These games often have cheaper tickets, but you still get the full stadium experience.

Between innings and during non-baseball events, the stadium keeps things lively with activities and contests for all ages.

Community Initiatives

Hodgetown often brings the community together for more than just sports. The stadium hosts charity fundraisers, awareness walks, and events for local nonprofits.

The Sod Poodles work closely with area schools, running educational programs at the stadium—reading initiatives, STEM demos, field trips, you name it. They use baseball to make learning a bit more fun.

Sometimes, you can join fitness classes and wellness events on the field. Working out in a pro sports stadium? That’s a pretty unique way to get your steps in.

You can even rent out the stadium for private events—corporate parties, weddings, whatever. The club levels and luxury boxes turn into stylish spaces with views of the field and the Amarillo skyline, so your event will definitely stand out.

Dining and Refreshments at Hodgetown

Hodgetown goes beyond the typical stadium fare. You’ll find everything from classic ballpark snacks to some legit local specialties while you watch the Sod Poodles play.

Concession Highlights

There are four main concession stands: Barnyard, Panhandle Pizza, Feed and Seed, and Route 66 Grill. Each one offers something different, so you won’t get bored with the menu.

You’ve got to try the Hot Diggity Dog cart. Their bacon-wrapped Amarillo Dog is a crowd favorite and puts a Texas spin on the classic hot dog.

If you’re into nachos, Nacho Libre serves helmet nachos—literally a plastic helmet stuffed to the brim with nachos and toppings.

Beer portables are scattered around the concourse, so grabbing a drink doesn’t mean missing much of the game.

Local Food Vendors

Hodgetown really leans into Amarillo’s local flavors by teaming up with area restaurants and suppliers. It’s a cool way to get a taste of the region while you’re at the game.

The Route 66 Grill celebrates the famous highway with Texas-sized burgers and sandwiches that fit Amarillo’s ranching roots.

Panhandle Pizza serves up pies with locally-sourced ingredients, and their specialty pizzas change up to highlight what’s in season around the Panhandle.

You’ll notice a lot of concession items use local beef, which is a nice nod to Amarillo’s cattle industry. Fresher food, and you’re supporting the local economy—it’s a win-win.

Family-Friendly Options

Hodgetown makes it easy for families to eat well without breaking the bank. You’ll find kid-friendly meals at most stands—smaller portions and prices that won’t make you wince.

Value meals bundle up hot dogs, chicken tenders, or mini pizzas with sides and a drink, so everyone gets what they want without a big bill.

For families looking for healthier choices, several stands offer fruit cups, veggie trays, and lighter options. It’s nice to have a few alternatives to the usual stadium food.

Just remember, outside food and drinks aren’t allowed, just like at big league parks. Prices are higher than fast food, but the quality and variety make it feel worth it for a special day out.

Exploring the Area Around Hodgetown

Hodgetown sits right in downtown Amarillo, so you’re at the center of the city’s cultural and entertainment district. Hotels, restaurants, and attractions are all close by—making it easy to turn a ballgame into a full Amarillo adventure.

Nearby Hotels

You’ll find plenty of comfortable hotels within walking distance of Hodgetown. Embassy Suites by Hilton Amarillo Downtown gives you upscale digs just a few blocks from the stadium, along with an indoor pool and free breakfast.

If you want to save a bit, check out the Courtyard by Marriott. It’s easier on the wallet but still has a fitness center and on-site dining. During baseball season, both hotels sometimes offer rooms with stadium views.

Planning a longer visit? Residence Inn might suit you better, since you get a full kitchen and a separate living area. Most downtown hotels run free shuttles to attractions near Hodgetown.

Quick tip: If you’re coming for a home game weekend, book your room early. Hotels fill up fast during baseball season.

Restaurants and Nightlife

Hungry before or after a Sod Poodles game? Downtown Amarillo’s full of options. Six Car Pub & Brewery sits just two blocks from the stadium, pouring craft beer and serving up creative pub food. If the weather’s decent, grab a seat outside.

Craving Texas barbecue? Tyler’s Barbeque and Dyer’s Bar-B-Que are local favorites, both just a short drive away. For something fancier, Crush Wine Bar does small plates and has a big wine list.

After the final out, Palace Coffee Company is a chill spot for a drink, and Whiskey Barrel keeps the cocktails flowing late. The 806 Coffee + Lounge hosts live music on weekends.

If you’re in a hurry or want something easy, try Yellow City Street Food or one of the nearby Mexican restaurants for real Tex-Mex.

Top Attractions in Amarillo

The Amarillo downtown area around Hodgetown packs in quite a few must-sees. The American Quarter Horse Hall of Fame is just minutes away and tells the story of these amazing horses with interactive exhibits.

Cadillac Ranch, Amarillo’s iconic art installation, features ten old Cadillacs buried nose-first in a field—bring a can of spray paint and add your own touch.

Other spots worth checking out:

• Palo Duro Canyon State Park (about 30 minutes by car)
• Route 66 Historic District, loaded with vintage shops and restaurants
• Amarillo Botanical Gardens
• The Big Texan Steak Ranch (home of the 72-oz steak challenge)

Art fans should swing by the Amarillo Museum of Art for rotating exhibits in a cool setting. If you’ve got kids, the Don Harrington Discovery Center is packed with hands-on science stuff and a space theater.

Tips for Planning Your Visit

A little planning goes a long way at HODGETOWN. These tips should help you figure out transportation and make sure everyone in your group can get around easily.

Parking and Transportation

HODGETOWN has several parking lots nearby. The main one sits on the south side, but it fills up quickly when there’s a weekend game or a big promo night.

The downtown parking garage is just three blocks away and charges a flat $5. If you’d rather skip driving, Uber and Lyft both have drop-off spots at the northeast entrance.

Want to save money? Free street parking is usually open within a 10-minute walk, especially along 6th Avenue.

You can also take Amarillo City Transit—Route 2 stops just a block from the main entrance. Buses run until 7 PM on weekdays and 6 PM on Saturdays.

If you’re staying at downtown hotels like Courtyard Marriott or Embassy Suites, you can just walk to the ballpark.

Accessibility Services

HODGETOWN meets ADA standards, and you’ll find accessible seating in every section, with companion seats right next to them.

Accessible parking sits in the main lot, close to the entrance gates. Make sure you display your placard.

You can borrow assisted listening devices for free at the Guest Services booth behind home plate—just leave a photo ID.

Service animals are allowed everywhere in the stadium. Let the ticket office know when you buy your tickets, and they’ll help you get the best spot.

Every concession stand has a lowered counter for wheelchair users, and you’ll find accessible restrooms on both the main and upper concourses.

If you or someone in your group has sensory sensitivities, you can borrow noise-cancelling headphones from Guest Services.

Practical Information and Visitor Resources

HODGETOWN offers plenty of services to make your baseball experience comfortable and safe. If you need help, it’s easy to find someone.

Safety and Transparency

HODGETOWN enforces a clear bag policy and security screening at every entrance. You’ll need a clear plastic, vinyl, or PVC bag (no bigger than 12″ x 6″ x 12″). Small clutch bags (4.5″ x 6.5″) are okay, even if they aren’t clear.

First aid stations sit on the main concourse if you need help. Stadium staff wear uniforms and hang out all over the place, ready to assist.

You’ll find ADA seating all around the 360-degree concourse, including the Pepsi Party Deck, Fairly Group Club Level, and dugout suites behind home plate.

You can’t bring outside food or drinks into HODGETOWN, which is a little different from some Major League parks. Concession prices run a bit higher than usual, so keep that in mind.

Contact Details and Visitor Assistance

Got questions before your visit? Reach out to the Sod Poodles front office at their downtown Amarillo spot. On game days, the ticket office opens up a few hours before first pitch.

The stadium sits right in downtown Amarillo, close to everything. If the stadium lots fill up, you can use the downtown Parking Garage for $9 plus tax per vehicle.

Guest services booths are scattered around the concourse and can help with:

• Lost and found
• Tickets
• Accessibility
• General info

Follow the Sod Poodles on social media for last-minute updates, promotions, or schedule changes.

Reflecting on Past Experiences

Since opening in 2019, Hodgetown has delivered so many great moments for baseball fans—classic ballpark memories and steady improvements that just keep making it better.

Memorable Moments

Hodgetown brought Minor League Baseball back to Amarillo for the first time since the old Potter County Memorial Stadium days, and it didn’t take long to become a fan favorite. Locals still talk about the buzz of opening day, with thousands cheering as pro baseball returned to the Panhandle.

People love to share stories about wild ninth-inning comebacks and championship celebrations that are already part of Amarillo’s baseball history.

The “Sod Poodle Shuffle” between innings? It’s a goofy tradition, but it gets everyone moving.

Kids seem to go nuts for the postgame fireworks on weekends, lighting up the Amarillo sky.

Recent Improvements

Ballpark management keeps upgrading things to make your visit better. They’ve added better seating along the first base line for improved views.

Concession stands now offer more than just the usual ballpark fare—you’ll see local Texas Panhandle specialties and more craft beers from nearby breweries.

Hodgetown’s 2025 season will bring new theme nights, like a Hawaiian Luau with special merch and tropical snacks.

The downtown location keeps getting better, too, with new restaurants and shops popping up close to the stadium.

Digital ticketing and parking have sped up entry, so you won’t spend forever waiting in line before games.

The Future of Hodgetown

Hodgetown’s got big plans coming up that’ll boost both player facilities and fan experiences. The upgrades should help it keep pace with other minor league parks, but hopefully it hangs onto the charm that makes it special.

Upcoming Developments

Hodgetown is gearing up for a major $4.5 million upgrade that won’t cost Amarillo taxpayers a dime. These improvements will help the stadium meet new Minor League Baseball standards and make the whole place better for everyone.

They’re expanding player development and training spaces, making sure the Amarillo Sod Poodles can keep developing talent for their MLB parent club.

You’ll also see new tech, like improved stadium WiFi and updated video boards. Lighting will get a boost, too—night games should look even better, and your photos might finally come out the way you want.

Enhancements for Visitors

Visitors can look forward to better food options soon, with more local flavors making their way into the mix. New concession stands are popping up and will serve Amarillo favorites right alongside the classic ballpark snacks everyone expects.

The fan experience at Hodgetown is about to get a lot more interactive. You’ll get a chance to test your pitching speed or see how your batting stacks up, all within the stadium and included with your regular ticket.

To help everyone handle that relentless Texas sun, the team’s adding extra shaded seats. New canopies and cooling stations will pop up all over the concourse, making those day games a little more bearable.

Ordering food should get easier, too. Mobile ordering will cover more spots, so you can skip the wait and have your snacks brought right to your seat. The Hodgetown app is also getting an upgrade, with features like virtual stadium tours and player stats—perfect for fans who want to dig a little deeper into the game.