Fifth Third Field Travel Guide

Fifth Third Field sits right in the heart of downtown Toledo, Ohio, and it’s the proud home of the Toledo Mud Hens, the Triple-A affiliate of the Detroit Tigers. This award-winning ballpark hosts 70 regular season games every year and, honestly, it’s about more than just baseball. With its central location, it’s a perfect jumping-off point for checking out Toledo while soaking up America’s favorite pastime.

When you plan a trip to Fifth Third Field, remember it’s the last stop before the big leagues in the Tigers’ Minor League system. So, you’ll catch future MLB stars here—and at prices that don’t break the bank. The ballpark packs in family-friendly spaces, local eats, and clear sightlines from every seat.

Downtown Toledo’s location gives you plenty of travel options. You can drive in from nearby cities like Detroit, Cleveland, or Columbus, or fly into Toledo Express Airport. Since the stadium sits in the heart of downtown, hotels, restaurants, and other attractions are just a short walk from the gates.

Overview of Fifth Third Field

Fifth Third Field really is the heart of Toledo’s baseball scene and a must-visit for sports fans. This Triple-A ballpark mixes modern amenities with the city’s deep baseball roots, all in a lively downtown setting.

History and Background

Fifth Third Field opened its gates in 2002, bringing pro baseball back to downtown Toledo. The stadium replaced the old Ned Skeldon Stadium out in Maumee, where the Mud Hens played since 1965.

Building the ballpark cost about $39 million, and the city wanted it to kickstart the Warehouse District. Safe to say, it did just that—businesses and restaurants popped up all around.

The Toledo Mud Hens, the Triple-A affiliate of the Detroit Tigers, have called Fifth Third Field home ever since. The franchise goes way back to 1896, making them one of the oldest minor league teams in the country.

Fifth Third Bank bought the naming rights before construction, and the field has kept that name while becoming a real landmark in downtown Toledo.

Stadium Features

Fifth Third Field seats 10,300 fans, and you’ll get a good view no matter where you sit. Here’s what you’ll find:

• 29 luxury suites for a premium vibe
• Picnic areas and party decks for groups
• Plenty of concession stands with local favorites
• A big videoboard for replays and entertainment
• The Roost, a cool seating area with bar-style seats in right field

The ballpark’s brick and ironwork match the historic Warehouse District, so the stadium just fits right in.

Kids get their own fun spaces with games and activities, and the 360-degree concourse lets you catch the action from any angle.

Significance in Toledo

Fifth Third Field is way more than just a ballpark—it’s a spark for downtown revitalization. The area around the stadium, now called “Hensville,” is packed with restaurants, shops, and entertainment.

The stadium draws thousands for 71 regular season games each year, and those crowds definitely give the local economy a boost.

The Mud Hens even got a little Hollywood fame thanks to “MAS*H,” when Max Klinger wore the team’s cap and talked them up. That TV shoutout made the Mud Hens famous well beyond Toledo.

Fifth Third Field keeps showing up on lists of the best minor league ballparks in the country. With affordable tickets, a family-friendly atmosphere, and some pretty good baseball, it’s easy to see why.

The stadium brings people together for more than just baseball, too—think concerts and community events all year long.

Toledo Mud Hens and the Game Day Experience

The Toledo Mud Hens give fans a genuine minor league experience, but with a major league feel. Thanks to their Detroit Tigers connection and competitive play in the International League, every game at Fifth Third Field is entertaining, even if you’re not glued to the scoreboard.

Affiliation with Detroit Tigers

The Mud Hens work as the Triple-A affiliate for the Detroit Tigers, so there’s always a steady stream of talent heading to Detroit. This partnership has been going strong since 1987, and you’ll often spot future MLB stars or Tigers players on rehab stints in Toledo.

Guys like Justin Verlander, Curtis Granderson, and Nicholas Castellanos all wore the Mud Hens uniform before making it big.

That Tigers connection keeps things interesting. Sometimes, you’ll see a player’s last minor league game before he gets called up to the majors. That’s a cool thing to witness.

International League Play

The Mud Hens play in the International League, taking on teams from all over the eastern U.S. This league has been around since 1884, and it’s the top level of minor league baseball.

Home games usually mean matchups with rivals like the Columbus Clippers, Indianapolis Indians, and Louisville Bats. The 2025 season has 70 home games between April and September.

With so many nearby teams, rivalries get pretty heated. When those teams show up, the crowd energy definitely jumps.

Games run about three hours, and first pitch times are:

• Weeknights: 6:35 PM
• Saturdays: 7:05 PM
• Sundays: 1:05 PM

Club Level and Seating Options

Fifth Third Field has a range of seating choices for every budget and style. The Club Level gives you padded seats, wait service, and climate-controlled comfort—definitely the most plush option.

The Roost out in right field is more laid-back, with drink rails and a social vibe. Families might like the grassy berm beyond the outfield, where kids can spread out and play.

If you want to be close to the action, the Diamond Club seats behind home plate offer the best view and in-seat food service.

Groups can book the Picnic Terrace or Home Run Terrace for parties of 20 or more, and those packages include food and drinks. For solid value, check out reserved seats in sections 102-106—good views without a big price tag.

Planning Your Visit to Fifth Third Field

A little planning goes a long way for your trip to Fifth Third Field. The Mud Hens’ home is a fun spot, but there are a few things to know before you show up.

Best Time to Visit

The Mud Hens play about 70 home games every season, running from April through September. Weeknight games are usually less crowded, so you’ll have more ticket options. Friday and Saturday nights fill up fast, especially when there are promos or fireworks.

Toledo weather can be unpredictable. Early spring games (April-May) get chilly—think 50s or 60s, so bring a jacket. Summer (June-August) is hot and humid, with temps in the 80s.

For comfort, day games in late spring or early fall are your best bet. Special event nights with giveaways or fireworks feel festive, but expect bigger crowds.

Ticket Purchase and Entry

You can buy Mud Hens tickets a few different ways:

• Official website
• Fifth Third Field box office
• Mud Hens app
• By phone: 419-725-HENS

Ticket prices start at $13 for lawn seats and go up to $27 for premium box seats. Discounts are available for:

• Kids under 12
• Military (with ID)
• Seniors (65+)
• Groups of 15 or more

If you want to catch batting practice, get there 60-90 minutes before first pitch. Gates open about an hour before game time. The bag policy limits bags to 16″x16″x8″ or smaller, and security checks all bags.

Parking lots surround the ballpark, and rates run $5-10. The Superior Street garage gives you covered parking right near the stadium.

Cincinnati and Regional Fans

If you’re coming from Cincinnati, it’s about a 3.5-hour drive north, so making a weekend out of it isn’t a bad idea. I-75 takes you straight up to Toledo.

You’ll find several hotels within walking distance of Fifth Third Field:

• Renaissance Toledo Downtown Hotel
• Park Inn by Radisson
• Hampton Inn & Suites Toledo/Downtown

Detroit fans (just an hour north) often make a day trip, since the Mud Hens are the Tigers’ Triple-A team.

If you’re driving in from Cleveland or Columbus, you’ll get to Toledo in 2-2.5 hours. The downtown spot of the ballpark makes it easy to get to, and there’s plenty to do in the Warehouse District before or after the game.

Navigating the Stadium

Getting around Fifth Third Field is pretty straightforward. The stadium layout gives you good views from almost every seat, and amenities are easy to reach.

Entrance Locations

Most people use the Third Base Gate off Monroe Street—it’s the main entrance for visitors. Once inside, turn right and head up the stairs to reach the Coop Party Deck.

Groups and season ticket holders usually enter through the Home Plate entrance, which leads right to premium seats. This entrance often has shorter lines, especially 30-45 minutes before first pitch.

If you’re parked in the St. Clair Village Garage or coming from the north, the Right Field Gate connects straight to the outfield concourse.

Every entrance has ticket scanners and security. Arrive early to skip the biggest lines, especially on weekends or promo nights.

The Roost: A Unique Viewing Experience

The Roost gives you one of Fifth Third Field’s most unique views. It’s up above right field, so you get a bird’s-eye look at the game.

In The Roost, you’ll find:

• Standard seats with great sightlines
• Bar-style seating with counters for your food and drinks
• Standing-room spots for hanging out with friends

Food in The Roost includes some specialty items you won’t find elsewhere. The BBQ nachos and craft beer are local favorites.

The area stays breezy and cool in the summer, thanks to overhead cover. For April and September games, bring a light jacket—it can get chilly up there.

Family and Accessible Amenities

Fifth Third Field really looks out for families and visitors with disabilities. The stadium offers family restrooms with changing tables on every concourse.

Accessibility features:

• Wheelchair seating with companion seats in several sections
• Elevators near the Home Plate entrance that reach all levels
• Accessible restrooms throughout the ballpark
• Assisted listening devices available at Guest Services

The Kids Zone behind left field has playground equipment, interactive games, and sometimes Muddy the Mud Hen (the mascot) stops by. It’s a good spot for kids to burn off energy if they get restless.

The Guest Services booth by section 105 offers stroller check, lost and found, and first aid. They also hand out “First Game” certificates for kids at their first baseball game.

Dining and Entertainment Options

Fifth Third Field serves up a ton of food choices and ways to make your visit memorable. You’ll find everything from classic ballpark snacks to local specialties.

Eateries and Concessions

Fifth Third Field packs the concourse with food stands and local favorites. You’ll spot all the stadium classics, plus some hometown twists. Mudzarella’s in Section 104 tosses out pizza and pizza pretzel dogs, and honestly, fans can’t seem to get enough of them.

If you’re craving something sweet, Farr Out Funnels in Section 103 whips up funnel cakes, root beer floats, and Toft’s ice cream sundaes—kind of perfect for those sticky summer nights.

Scattered along the concourse, you’ll stumble on burgers, hot dogs, and a bunch of other options. No one leaves hungry here, that’s for sure.

Need a bigger meal? The Holy Toledo Tavern sits right next to the stadium and serves up a relaxed vibe with a menu that’s a bit more filling.

Swamp Shop and Souvenirs

Head to the Swamp Shop at Fifth Third Field for all things Mud Hens. Jerseys, hats, t-shirts—you name it, they’ve got it. Check out the team gear if you want to show off your fandom.

They stock stuff for everyone, from baby onesies to adult hoodies. You can even grab autographed swag, game-used gear, or some limited-edition collectibles if you’re into that.

The shop rotates seasonal items, so you might spot something new every time you visit. Friendly staff help you hunt down the right size or place a special order if you’re picky.

Don’t feel like braving the main shop? Smaller kiosks dot the concourse, stocked with the hottest sellers for a quick grab-and-go.

Exploring the Warehouse District

Fifth Third Field sits right in Toledo’s historic Warehouse District, which has totally reinvented itself. Once an industrial zone, now it’s buzzing with restaurants, bars, and things to do—all within walking distance of the stadium.

Local Restaurants and Bars

You can’t really go wrong eating around here. Packo’s at the Park serves up their famous Hungarian hot dogs—baseball fans and foodies both swear by them.

Fleetwood’s Tap Room pours craft beers and serves up pub grub in a cool old building. Their rooftop patio? Great spot to catch views of the stadium and the city.

Want something a little fancier? Registry Bistro dishes out seasonal American plates in a space that still shows off its exposed brick and industrial roots.

Social Kitchen and Bar feels lively—think shareable plates, creative cocktails, and a fun crowd, especially before or after a game.

Lots of these spots run game day deals, so it’s worth showing up early for happy hour before first pitch.

Attractions Near the Stadium

The Toledo Warehouse District is full of historic buildings that have gotten a new lease on life. You can wander around on a self-guided architecture tour if that’s your thing—there’s a real sense of the city’s industrial past mixing with new energy.

Hensville Park buzzes with pre-game activities and sometimes concerts. On summer game days, outdoor events pop up all the time.

The Toledo Farmers Market sets up nearby on weekends, selling local produce and handmade goods. It’s a fun place to grab a snack before heading inside.

Art lovers can check out the galleries tucked into old warehouse spaces. These days, the District is kind of a magnet for Toledo’s creative crowd.

Don’t forget the Maumee River waterfront just a short walk away. The riverside paths offer a peaceful break and some nice views before you settle in for the game.

Getting to Fifth Third Field

Fifth Third Field anchors downtown Toledo’s Warehouse District, and getting there is pretty straightforward. The stadium’s at 406 Washington St., Toledo, OH 43604.

Parking Information

You’ve got a few choices for parking around Fifth Third Field. The garage right across the street costs $10, but it fills up fast on game days, so showing up early pays off.

Street parking dots downtown Toledo, but keep an eye on meters and time limits. Most meters let you park for free after 5 PM and on weekends.

Other lots surround the stadium within a 5-10 minute walk. Expect to pay $5-$8, depending on how close you want to be.

Accessible parking sits in the main garage and nearby lots—just bring your disability placard to snag a spot.

If you want to guarantee parking for a big game, you can pre-purchase a spot through the Mud Hens website.

Public Transportation Options

TARTA buses (that’s Toledo Area Regional Transit Authority) run several routes through downtown, with stops near Fifth Third Field. Check their site for up-to-date schedules.

The Muddy Shuttle operates on game days, shuttling fans from remote lots right to the stadium. It’s a good way to skip the parking headache.

Uber and Lyft both work in Toledo, with a designated drop-off and pick-up area on Monroe Street, right by the entrance.

If you prefer biking, racks are set up near the Washington Street entrance, and downtown has a few bike-friendly paths leading to the stadium.

Walking’s an option too. Most downtown hotels are within a 10-15 minute stroll of the ballpark, and the city’s pretty walkable.

Nearby Accommodations

You’ll find plenty of hotels within walking distance of Fifth Third Field. The Renaissance Toledo Downtown Hotel stands out for its upscale rooms—some even look out at the stadium.

Park Inn by Radisson sits about five blocks away, offering comfy rooms at moderate prices.

Travelers on a budget can try the Quality Inn Toledo Downtown, which is about a 15-minute walk from the field.

If you’re sticking around for a while, Homewood Suites by Hilton Toledo Downtown has suite-style rooms with kitchenettes, about a mile from the stadium.

Hotels fill up fast during baseball season and special events, so booking early really helps. Some even offer shuttle service to the ballpark—worth asking about when you reserve.

Legacy and Media Presence

Fifth Third Field has become a huge part of Toledo’s identity and baseball tradition. Its influence stretches well beyond the ballpark thanks to partnerships and plenty of media attention.

Ned Skeldon Stadium Legacy

Fifth Third Field keeps the legacy of Ned Skeldon Stadium alive. Before moving downtown in 2002, the Mud Hens played at Skeldon—a quirky old racetrack in Maumee, Ohio. The team brought over artifacts and memorabilia from the old stadium, and you can spot these throughout the new park.

Historical photos and plaques connect the old days with the new. The Mud Hens really tried to carry over fan traditions from Skeldon while making new memories downtown.

That move from Skeldon to Fifth Third Field didn’t just change the team—it helped breathe new life into downtown Toledo and kept the franchise’s roots strong in the community.

Fifth Third Bank Partnership

Fifth Third Bank has more than just its name on the stadium. You’ll spot their ATMs along the concourse, and they sponsor a bunch of fan promos—think ticket discounts and giveaways.

This partnership has lasted since the stadium opened and helps keep tickets affordable. Fifth Third also backs community programs in Toledo.

The bank funds youth baseball initiatives and supports local charities. Their ongoing involvement helps the stadium stay in top shape and adds to the fan experience.

Coverage on ESPN.com

The Toledo Mud Hens have caught national attention thanks to coverage on ESPN.com and other big sports media outlets. Their connection to the Detroit Tigers definitely adds to the media buzz.

Maybe you’ve seen Fifth Third Field pop up on ESPN highlights, where future MLB stars show off their skills during their minor league days. The network’s digital platforms have even put the stadium on a few “best minor league ballparks” lists.

ESPN analysts tend to rave about the ballpark’s design and lively atmosphere during broadcasts. They often mention the rooftop seating and how the stadium fits right into downtown—those features get a lot of love.

The Mud Hens’ appearances in pop culture, especially on “MAS*H,” still draw media attention to the team and their home field. Honestly, this kind of coverage keeps introducing new fans to the whole Toledo baseball scene.