Hadlock Field Travel Guide

Right in the heart of Portland, Maine, Hadlock Field gives baseball fans that classic minor league vibe, but with plenty of modern perks. Home to the Portland Sea Dogs (the Double-A affiliate of the Boston Red Sox), this cozy ballpark has 6,868 seats, 17 sky boxes, and picnic areas that make every game feel like a special occasion.

You can catch family-friendly entertainment at a reasonable price and watch future Major League stars hone their skills at Delta Dental Park at Hadlock Field. Since opening in 1994, the stadium has become a favorite spot for both die-hard baseball fans and folks just looking for a fun night out. It’s a much more intimate setting than those massive MLB parks.

Getting there isn’t complicated—it’s at 271 Park Avenue, and you’ll find parking at nearby Maine Medical Center (995 Congress Street). The stadium, named for longtime Portland High baseball coach Edson Hadlock Jr., blends classic ballpark nostalgia with enough comforts to make it a great outing in one of New England’s liveliest coastal cities.

Overview of Hadlock Field

Hadlock Field in Portland offers a true New England baseball experience, complete with a quirky lighthouse centerpiece and a Green Monster replica. The place mixes old-school baseball charm with the amenities you actually want.

History and Legacy

They named Hadlock Field after Edson Hadlock Jr., a high school baseball coach who left a real mark on Portland. The stadium opened in the 1990s, joining a wave of minor league parks that aimed for that classic look and feel.

Since 1994, the Sea Dogs have called Hadlock their home as the Double-A affiliate of the Boston Red Sox. Before teaming up with the Sox, the Sea Dogs worked with the Florida Marlins.

Hadlock Field has seen plenty of future MLB stars come through. When you walk into the stadium, you’re stepping onto the same grounds where guys like Mookie Betts, Rafael Devers, and Xander Bogaerts sharpened their game.

Stadium Features

Hadlock Field keeps things up close and personal, with seats for 7,368 fans. No matter where you sit, you’re right in the middle of the action.

The stadium’s standout feature is the lighthouse that pops up beyond centerfield whenever the Sea Dogs hit a home run or win. It’s a fun nod to Maine’s coastal roots and gives the park its own personality.

Food-wise, you’ll get all the ballpark classics, plus local favorites like lobster rolls. Prices are fair, so you won’t feel gouged at the concession stands.

The field crew keeps the turf in top shape, and sightlines are sharp from nearly every seat. They’ve made sure the stadium is accessible, so everyone can enjoy the game.

Green Monster Replica

Probably the most Instagrammed spot at Hadlock is its mini version of Fenway Park’s Green Monster. You’ll find it in left field, complete with a manual scoreboard and a “Vacationland” sign instead of Citgo.

It stands 37 feet tall, just like the original, and gives hitters the same kind of challenge. Sea Dogs players and visitors both have to figure it out, which adds some fun to the games.

If you can score seats on top of the Monster, you’ll get a killer view of the whole field. These are limited and go fast, so book ahead if you’re interested.

The Green Monster replica brings a bit of Fenway to Maine and tightens the bond between the Sea Dogs and Red Sox for fans.

Portland Sea Dogs Experience

Catching a Sea Dogs game at Hadlock Field is the real deal for minor league baseball, with that unmistakable New England flavor. The team delivers affordable fun for families and a look at tomorrow’s MLB stars.

Team Background

The Sea Dogs started playing at Hadlock Field in 1994. As Maine’s only pro baseball team, they’ve become a local favorite. They play in the Eastern League at the Double-A level, just two steps below the big leagues.

Slugger the Sea Dog, their mascot, is a goofy seal who keeps fans laughing between innings with all sorts of antics. And when a Sea Dog hits a homer or the team wins, that lighthouse rises up in centerfield for a truly Maine-style celebration.

Average attendance sits around 5,500 per game, so the place feels lively but not overwhelming. You can actually hear players talking and feel like you’re part of the game.

Affiliation with Boston Red Sox

The Sea Dogs teamed up with the Boston Red Sox in 2003, which made the Red Sox presence even stronger throughout New England. Thanks to this partnership, fans get to watch future Red Sox stars work their way up at Hadlock before they hit Fenway Park.

Big names like Mookie Betts, Xander Bogaerts, Rafael Devers, and Dustin Pedroia all played here before making it big. The Red Sox connection brings plenty of “Sox Nation” energy to Portland, with fans often following their favorite players’ careers all the way to the majors.

You’ll see the Red Sox influence all over the stadium, especially with the mini “Green Monster” in left field. Red Sox hats and jerseys are everywhere—right alongside Sea Dogs gear.

Key Games and Rivalries

The Sea Dogs play 70 home games a season, and a few matchups really stand out. Their biggest rivals are the New Hampshire Fisher Cats and the Reading Fightin Phils, and those games always draw bigger crowds.

Special promos add to the fun. Fireworks nights are a huge hit and usually sell out. “Bark in the Park” lets you bring your dog to special sections, which is always a blast for families.

The pitching staff often features young arms throwing 95 mph or more. Games against top rivals or on weekends with promotions tend to have the best atmosphere, but honestly, you’ll get solid entertainment any time you go.

Planning Your Visit

Hadlock Field makes for an affordable, family-friendly day (or night) out in Portland. A little planning goes a long way to help you catch future MLB stars and get the most out of your visit.

Game Schedule and Tickets

The Sea Dogs, as the Double-A affiliate of the Boston Red Sox, play 70 home games at Hadlock Field from April through September. Tickets are pretty reasonable, with general admission running $11-$13 and premium box seats going for $15-$20.

It’s smart to buy tickets online before game day, especially for weekends or promo nights—they sell out quickly. You can grab tickets from the Sea Dogs official website or at the Hadlock Field box office.

For deals, check out:

• 9-Ticket Flex Packs: Use them however you want, for any combo of games
• Group Rates: Good for groups of 20 or more
• Military/Senior Discounts: Just show a valid ID

Stadium Policies

Hadlock Field keeps things friendly for families. You can bring soft-sided coolers up to 16″×16″×8″, but leave the alcohol at home.

Security will check your bags at the entrance. Make sure mobile tickets are ready on your phone to make getting in quicker.

Parking options include:

• Maine Medical Center lot (995 Congress Street)
• Maine Medical Center garage on Congress Street
• Street parking in nearby neighborhoods

The stadium is wheelchair accessible with designated seating. Service animals are welcome, but only bring pets for “Bark in the Park” events.

Websites and Mobile Resources

Check out the Sea Dogs official website for all the info you need on the team, games, and special events. Their mobile app is handy for digital tickets, stadium maps, and live updates.

Follow the Sea Dogs on social media for:

• Last-minute ticket offers
• Weather updates
• Player news and roster moves
• Promo announcements

The MiLB First Pitch app is great for tracking minor league schedules and stats. For getting around, Portland’s public transit app can help you plan your trip to Hadlock Field.

If you want to make a day of it, the Portland, Maine visitors app has tips on restaurants and attractions nearby.

Getting to Hadlock Field

Hadlock Field is easy to get to, with lots of transportation options for fans. Its central Portland location means you can reach it whether you’re driving in from out of state or flying into town.

Directions and Public Transportation

Driving in from the north? Take I-295 South to exit 6A (Forest Ave). Coming from the south, use I-95 North to I-295 North, then take exit 5 (Congress Street). The stadium is well marked from either direction.

Public transit is a breeze too. METRO bus routes 1, 2, and 4 all stop within walking distance. Route 1 is especially convenient, stopping on Congress Street just two blocks from Hadlock Field.

Uber and Lyft both operate in Portland, so you can get dropped off right at the stadium. That’s especially handy if you’re staying downtown at places like The Press Hotel or Portland Harbor Hotel.

Parking Options

You’ve got a few choices for parking near Hadlock Field:

Stadium Lot: There are limited spots right next to the stadium, but they fill up fast. Try to show up 60-90 minutes before first pitch.

Expo Center: The Portland Exposition Building lot is a short walk away and usually has extra spots.

Street Parking: Some free street parking is around, but check the signs for restrictions.

Downtown Garages: Portland’s downtown garages offer decent rates and are about a 15-minute walk from the stadium.

For big games, parking goes quick, so plan to arrive early. Parking fills up fast near Hadlock Field.

Proximity to Portland International Jetport

Portland International Jetport sits just 4 miles west of Hadlock Field, so it’s super convenient if you’re flying in. The drive takes about 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic.

A taxi from the airport to the stadium usually costs $15-20 one way. Rideshares like Uber and Lyft are sometimes a bit cheaper.

If you’re staying a few days, you’ll find rental cars from Hertz, Enterprise, and Budget at the airport. Having a car helps if you want to explore more of the area.

Some downtown hotels offer airport shuttles, and you can combine those with a quick rideshare to the field.

Ballpark Amenities and Accessibility

Hadlock Field packs in plenty of amenities to make your baseball outing comfortable and fun. The stadium blends modern touches with that old-school ballpark feel.

Concession Stands and Food Choices

You’ll find several concession stands throughout the concourse, serving up both classic ballpark food and Maine specialties. Hot dogs, burgers, and nachos are always available, but don’t miss the lobster rolls and clam chowder for a local twist.

You can grab domestic and craft beers, with a nice selection from Maine breweries. Sea Dog Brewing Company’s offerings are a fan favorite.

Lines usually move pretty quickly, but expect them to get longer between innings. If you want to avoid the crowds, hit the concessions during the game or show up early.

Fan Tip: The stands behind sections 105 and 203 tend to have the shortest lines, even during busy games.

Seating and Sight Lines

Hadlock Field seats 6,868 fans in a compact, viewer-friendly layout. Fans flock to a few main seating options:

• Box Seats: Right up close with a fantastic view of the action
• Reserved Seats: Great value and solid sight lines
• General Admission: Cheapest option, but those spots fill up fast
• Skyboxes: 17 enclosed boxes—perfect for groups wanting something special

You’ll hardly find a bad seat in the house. Most sections offer clear views of the field, and the tight layout keeps everyone close to the game.

If you’re bringing kids, sections 104-106 keep you near snacks and restrooms. Baseball diehards usually head for sections 202-204 for that higher, tactical look at the field.

Accessibility for All Fans

Hadlock Field makes a real effort to accommodate fans with disabilities. You’ll find wheelchair-accessible seating in several sections, always with companion seats right next to them. These spots give you a clear view of the field, too.

Accessible restrooms sit on both the main and upper concourses. The wide walkways make it pretty easy to get around.

Mobile tickets work best—have them ready before you hit security, and you’ll breeze right in. Staff stand by at entrances to help anyone who needs extra assistance.

Need special accommodations? Just call the Sea Dogs ticket office ahead of time. Ushers do a good job helping with seating or anything else you might run into during the game.

Exploring Downtown Portland and Nearby Attractions

Portland’s got way more to offer than just baseball at Hadlock Field. Downtown bursts with top-notch restaurants, comfy hotels, and easy access to other baseball spots around Maine.

Dining and Breweries

Portland’s food scene gets a lot of love—and for good reason. The Old Port district is packed with seafood joints, so you can dig into fresh Maine lobster and local catches.

If you’re into craft beer, you’ll find plenty to like. Allagash Brewing Company does tours and tastings of their Belgian-style brews. You’ll also want to check out Bissell Brothers, Foundation Brewing, and Oxbow Blending & Bottling.

Grabbing a quick bite before the game? Try the food trucks that park near downtown, or swing by Eventide Oyster Co. for their famous lobster roll.

Local Favorites:

• Duckfat (those Belgian fries are legendary)
• Central Provisions (small plates, big flavors)
• Fore Street (wood-fired everything)
• Holy Donut (potato donuts—trust us)

Accommodations

Downtown Portland has plenty of places to stay, all close to the historic Old Port and just a short drive from Hadlock Field.

The Press Hotel puts you in the old Portland Press Herald building, with newspaper-inspired decor and a central spot for exploring.

Portland Harbor Hotel offers harbor views and classic New England charm. Rooms are spacious, and there’s even a courtyard garden—a nice touch if you want a little peace and quiet.

Travelers on a budget often pick the Holiday Inn Portland-By the Bay or the Residence Inn Portland Downtown/Waterfront.

If you want something different, check out bed and breakfasts in historic homes like The Pomegranate Inn or The Chadwick.

Other Baseball Venues in Maine

Hadlock Field stands out as Maine’s top baseball spot, but you’ll find other places to catch a game.

The Sanford Mainers play summer ball at Goodall Park in Sanford, about 35 miles southwest of Portland. This old-school park dates back to 1915 and gives you a classic, up-close baseball vibe.

The University of Maine Black Bears play at Mahaney Diamond in Orono. If you’re up north, the 3,000-seat stadium is worth a visit.

For a true local feel, check out Maine’s American Legion teams. They play at community fields all summer long.

Compared to bigger places like LeLacheur Park in Massachusetts, Maine’s parks tend to be smaller and more intimate. You’re right in the middle of the action.

Tips For a Memorable Hadlock Field Trip

A Portland Sea Dogs game at Hadlock Field delivers affordable fun and quirky ballpark traditions. A little planning goes a long way for a smooth experience.

What to Bring and Wear

Sunscreen is a must for day games since Hadlock Field barely has any shade. Don’t forget a cap and sunglasses—the Maine sun can be sneaky, especially in the afternoon.

Wear comfortable shoes if you plan to wander around and check out different views. The concourse gives you standing room and lots of angles to watch the game.

Evenings can get chilly—even in summer—so bring a light jacket just in case.

Cash comes in handy for a few vendors, but most take cards. Food prices feel reasonable, though beer runs about $12 for microbrews, which is about what you’d pay in the big leagues.

A small bag with essentials usually gets in, but double-check the latest bag policy before you go.

Best Fan Experiences

Show up early and you might catch batting practice—or even snag an autograph from a future Boston Red Sox star. A lot of Sea Dogs players move up to the majors, so you get to say you saw them before they were famous. That’s always fun, right?

If you want to grab a bite nearby, plan to arrive at least two hours before first pitch. Restaurants fill up fast on game days, and no one likes waiting around when they’re hungry.

Keep an eye out for the lighthouse in centerfield—it pops up after a home run or a win. The lighthouse feels like classic Maine, and it’s a cool way to mark Sea Dogs’ big moments.

Take a look at the promotional schedule before you go. You might catch a fireworks night or even a “Bark in the Park” game, where fans can bring their dogs. Honestly, who doesn’t want to watch baseball with a bunch of happy pups around?

If you want to join the loudest Sox Nation fans, grab a seat along the first base line. That’s where the die-hards hang out, keeping a close eye on the Red Sox prospects coming up through the system.