Tiger Stadium Detroit: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Significance

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

Tiger Stadium, once rising above the corner of Michigan and Trumbull Avenues, is a Detroit landmark synonymous with baseball history and community pride. Opened in 1896 as Bennett Park and later known as Navin Field and Briggs Stadium, it housed the Detroit Tigers for nearly nine decades, witnessing unforgettable sports moments and legendary players. Though the original stadium was demolished in 2009, its spirit endures through The Corner Ballpark—a youth sports facility preserving the iconic field’s dimensions—and through the Tigers’ current home at Comerica Park. This guide explores Tiger Stadium’s storied past, architectural significance, and ongoing legacy, while offering practical advice for visitors, including hours, tickets, accessibility, and nearby attractions. Whether you’re a baseball aficionado, history buff, or traveler seeking Detroit’s heritage, this article immerses you in the enduring legacy of one of America’s most beloved ballparks (MLB.com, Detroit PAL, This Great Game).

Table of Contents

The Foundations: Bennett Park (1896–1911)

Baseball’s roots in Detroit were laid at Bennett Park, which opened in 1896 at Michigan and Trumbull. With a wooden grandstand and simple amenities, it welcomed a passionate but growing fanbase. Due to blue laws, owner James D. Burns famously hosted Sunday games at Burns Park just outside the city until restrictions eased in 1907, permitting Sunday play at Bennett Park. As the Tigers’ popularity surged, the park’s capacity and facilities quickly proved inadequate, prompting plans for a more modern stadium (MLB.com).


To accommodate increasing crowds, owner Frank Navin commissioned a new concrete-and-steel stadium, designed by Osborn Engineering. Navin Field opened on April 12, 1912—coincidentally the same day as Fenway Park. Initially seating 23,000, it featured a towering scoreboard and a 125-foot flagpole in center field, both novel for the era. Over the next 26 years, Navin Field underwent three expansions, keeping pace with Detroit’s baseball fervor (MLB.com).


Briggs Stadium: Expansion Era (1938–1960)

In 1938, under owner Walter Briggs, the stadium was renamed Briggs Stadium and saw major enhancements, including a second deck over the right field warning track. This unique feature challenged outfielders and delighted fans, while raising capacity above 50,000, making it one of baseball’s largest venues. Briggs Stadium also hosted the Detroit Lions (NFL) and other major events. Night games began in 1948, making it the last American League stadium to install lights (This Great Game, MLB.com).


Tiger Stadium: Iconic Years (1961–1999)

Following John Fetzer’s acquisition, the stadium became Tiger Stadium in 1961. For almost four decades, it was the heart of Detroit baseball, home to legendary players like Ty Cobb, Al Kaline, and Mark Fidrych. The stadium hosted four World Series championships (1935, 1945, 1968, 1984) and 11 American League pennants. Its intimate upper decks brought fans close to the game, fostering an unmatched atmosphere. Beyond baseball, Tiger Stadium hosted concerts, political rallies, and boxing matches, embedding itself in Detroit’s cultural fabric (This Great Game, MLB.com).


Architectural Features & Fan Experience

Tiger Stadium was renowned for its overhanging right field upper deck, painted blue with contrasting orange seats, and its urban setting at “The Corner.” The design created a close, nostalgic environment for fans, even as parking was limited. This intimacy, alongside the stadium’s unique quirks, made it a cherished destination for generations (This Great Game).


Visiting Tiger Stadium Today: Hours, Tickets & Tips

Although the original stadium is gone, its legacy continues at The Corner Ballpark, operated by Detroit PAL. The preserved field and iconic flagpole remain accessible to the public.

Visiting Hours: Generally open during daylight hours year-round; check the Detroit PAL website for event-specific access.

Tickets and Tours: No regular admission fee. Special events may require registration; guided tours are offered occasionally—refer to Detroit PAL for details.

Accessibility: Fully wheelchair accessible, with paved paths and ramps.

Getting There: Served by public transit (DDOT bus routes) and limited street parking. Rideshare is recommended for larger events.

Nearby Attractions: Detroit Historical Museum, Henry Ford Museum, Corktown Historic District, and Comerica Park.

Photography Tips: The preserved field and flagpole are ideal for photos, especially at sunrise or sunset.


The Corner Ballpark: History, Amenities, and Events

Located at 4747 Michigan Ave, The Corner Ballpark is the modern reincarnation of Tiger Stadium’s hallowed grounds. Opened in 2018 by Detroit PAL, it features the Willie Horton Field of Dreams, honoring the Tigers legend.

Hours: Open daily, typically 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM, with variations for special events.

Admission: Free for casual visitors; special events may require tickets (Detroit PAL).

Facilities: Modern restrooms, concession stands, and a rentable banquet facility. The field supports baseball, softball, football, and more, with seating for approximately 2,500.

Events & Community: The ballpark hosts youth leagues, tournaments, concerts, and community gatherings, fostering leadership, resilience, and teamwork in Detroit’s youth (Detroit PAL).


The Willie Horton Field of Dreams

At the heart of The Corner Ballpark is the Willie Horton Field of Dreams—a multi-sport, state-of-the-art facility that maintains the original field’s orientation and dimensions. It stands as a tribute to the Tigers’ heritage and supports a dynamic slate of athletic and community events (Detroit PAL).


Community & Cultural Significance

The Corner Ballpark is more than a sports venue; it’s a symbol of Detroit’s resilience and revival. The site anchors Corktown’s renaissance, supports affordable housing through the adjacent “Left Field” development, and connects past and present through commemorative plaques and displays honoring legends like Al Kaline and Hank Greenberg (Daily Detroit, Detroit Historical Society).


Visitor Experience and Amenities

Access & Parking: Accessible from downtown and major highways; designated lots are available. Public transit and rideshare are ideal during large events.

Dining & Shopping: Corktown’s vibrant eateries and shops are within walking distance (Daily Detroit).

Tours & Events: Guided tours can be booked during major events. The ballpark frequently hosts tournaments like the annual Tiger Town Showdown (FAAST D-Town Tiger Town Showdown).

Best Time to Visit: Spring and summer, which coincide with Detroit’s festival season.


Preservation of Legacy

The original Tiger Stadium may be gone, but its memory is enshrined through The Corner Ballpark’s authentic field layout, commemorative markers, and ongoing community engagement. The site’s transformation balances historic reverence with modern amenities, ensuring the spirit of Tiger Stadium endures (Detroit Historical Society, Daily Detroit).


Comerica Park: Hours, Tickets, and Visitor Guidance

Comerica Park, located at 2100 Woodward Ave., has been the Tigers’ home since 2000. This modern ballpark blends classic charm with contemporary amenities and is central to Detroit’s downtown revival.

Hours: Gates open 90 minutes before game time. For up-to-date schedules, see Detroit Tigers Tickets.

Tickets: Available online or by phone. Pricing varies by seat and event (Tigers.com/Tickets).

Accessibility & Parking: The stadium is fully ADA-compliant. Reserve parking in advance, especially for popular games (thestadiumsguide.com).

Entry & Security: Multiple gates, bag inspections, and metal detectors. Only small bags permitted; no coolers (mlb.com).


Tickets, Seating, and Amenities at Comerica Park

Comerica Park offers a variety of seating, including premium Tiger Den seats with in-seat service, and family-friendly areas. Accessible seating is available throughout the stadium (rateyourseats.com).

Children: Kids 3 and under may enter free if seated on an adult’s lap (mlb.com).


Food, Beverage & Family Attractions

Enjoy diverse food options, including vegan and vegetarian choices. Empty water bottles are permitted for use at fountains. The stadium boasts a Ferris wheel, carousel, and family zones. Sundays feature “Chevy Sunday Kids Day,” offering autographs and special activities (wxyz.com).


Events, Promotions, and Tours

Fridays bring live music, specials, and fireworks as part of “Friday Night Party in the Park.” Theme nights and giveaways are common. Behind-the-scenes tours ($20/person) provide exclusive access to restricted areas (mlb.com).


Detroit Historical Sites & Nearby Attractions

Enhance your visit with Detroit’s top attractions: Detroit Historical Museum, Motown Museum, Henry Ford Museum, and the scenic Detroit Riverwalk. Corktown’s historic district and unique dining options, like Mom’s Spaghetti, are nearby (hofftoseetheworld.com).


Stadium Policies and Visitor Code

Comerica Park enforces strict policies for safety and enjoyment: no large bags, no smoking, and zero tolerance for disruptive behavior. Review all guidelines prior to your visit (mlb.com).


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What are Tiger Stadium’s or The Corner Ballpark’s visiting hours?
Generally daylight hours; for special events, see Detroit PAL.

Do I need tickets to visit The Corner Ballpark?
Admission is typically free; special events may require registration.

Is the site accessible?
Yes, the ballpark and Comerica Park are ADA-compliant.

Are guided tours available?
Yes, especially during major events at The Corner Ballpark or via Comerica Park’s tour program.

What are the best nearby attractions?
Detroit Historical Museum, Corktown, Michigan Central Station, and Comerica Park.


Tips for a Great Visit

  • Arrive Early: Enjoy pregame experiences and avoid lines.
  • Dress Accordingly: Detroit weather varies—bring layers, especially for outdoor sites.
  • Hydrate: Bring an empty water bottle for refills.
  • Plan Ahead: Check event calendars for special activities and buy tickets in advance.
  • Explore Detroit: Take time to visit museums, shops, and restaurants in Corktown and downtown.

Safety and Best Times to Visit

Detroit’s downtown and Corktown are safe and lively, especially during events. Late spring through early fall offers the best weather and most vibrant atmosphere for visiting baseball sites and historic attractions (michaelvisitsall.com).


Visual & Interactive Resources

Explore virtual tours and interactive maps on the official Corner Ballpark website. For Comerica Park, visit mlb.com for images and planning tools.


Conclusion

Tiger Stadium’s legacy—spanning Bennett Park through Navin and Briggs Stadiums to its final years—remains a defining chapter in Detroit’s story. The Corner Ballpark preserves this heritage, offering a place for new generations to connect with the city’s baseball roots. Nearby Comerica Park and a revitalized Corktown district further enrich Detroit’s sporting and cultural landscape. For the latest information on visiting hours, tickets, tours, and events, consult the Detroit PAL website and official Detroit Tigers resources. Embrace the enduring spirit of Detroit and plan your visit for a truly memorable experience.


References


Visit The Most Interesting Places In Detroit

1001 Woodward
1001 Woodward
1300 Lafayette East Cooperative
1300 Lafayette East Cooperative
150 West Jefferson
150 West Jefferson
Albert Kahn Building
Albert Kahn Building
Albert Kahn House
Albert Kahn House
Alden Park Towers
Alden Park Towers
Ambassador Bridge
Ambassador Bridge
Argonaut Building
Argonaut Building
Assumption Of The Blessed Virgin Mary Church
Assumption Of The Blessed Virgin Mary Church
Belle Isle Aquarium
Belle Isle Aquarium
Belle Isle Park
Belle Isle Park
Bennett Park
Bennett Park
Bernard Ginsburg House
Bernard Ginsburg House
Cadillac Place
Cadillac Place
Cadillac Tower
Cadillac Tower
Calihan Hall
Calihan Hall
Campus Martius
Campus Martius
Cass Motor Sales
Cass Motor Sales
Cathedral Church Of St. Paul
Cathedral Church Of St. Paul
Cathedral Of The Most Blessed Sacrament
Cathedral Of The Most Blessed Sacrament
Central United Methodist Church
Central United Methodist Church
Chapel Of St. Theresa-The Little Flower
Chapel Of St. Theresa-The Little Flower
Charles H. Wright Museum Of African American History
Charles H. Wright Museum Of African American History
Charles Lang Freer House
Charles Lang Freer House
Charles Trowbridge House
Charles Trowbridge House
|
  Children'S Hospital Of Michigan
| Children'S Hospital Of Michigan
Clay Office And Conference Center
Clay Office And Conference Center
Col. Frank J. Hecker House
Col. Frank J. Hecker House
Coleman A. Young International Airport
Coleman A. Young International Airport
Comerica Park
Comerica Park
Consulate-General Of Japan, Detroit
Consulate-General Of Japan, Detroit
Crowne Plaza Detroit Downtown Riverfront
Crowne Plaza Detroit Downtown Riverfront
David Whitney House
David Whitney House
Denby High School
Denby High School
Detroit
Detroit
Detroit Club
Detroit Club
Detroit Cornice And Slate Company Building
Detroit Cornice And Slate Company Building
Detroit Historical Museum
Detroit Historical Museum
Detroit Institute Of Arts
Detroit Institute Of Arts
Detroit Masonic Temple
Detroit Masonic Temple
Detroit Opera House
Detroit Opera House
Detroit Plaindealer
Detroit Plaindealer
Detroit Public Library
Detroit Public Library
Detroit Receiving Hospital
Detroit Receiving Hospital
Detroit Street Circuit
Detroit Street Circuit
Detroit–Windsor Tunnel
Detroit–Windsor Tunnel
Dorothy H. Turkel House
Dorothy H. Turkel House
Dossin Great Lakes Museum
Dossin Great Lakes Museum
Dry Dock Complex
Dry Dock Complex
Duane Doty School
Duane Doty School
Dunbar Hospital
Dunbar Hospital
East Jefferson Avenue Residential Tr
East Jefferson Avenue Residential Tr
Edmund Atkinson School
Edmund Atkinson School
Edsel And Eleanor Ford House
Edsel And Eleanor Ford House
Eighth Precinct Police Station
Eighth Precinct Police Station
El Tovar Apartments
El Tovar Apartments
Elisha Taylor House
Elisha Taylor House
Elmwood Cemetery
Elmwood Cemetery
Elwood Bar
Elwood Bar
Federal Reserve Bank Of Chicago Detroit Branch Building
Federal Reserve Bank Of Chicago Detroit Branch Building
First Congregational Church
First Congregational Church
First National Building
First National Building
First Presbyterian Church
First Presbyterian Church
First Unitarian Church Of Detroit
First Unitarian Church Of Detroit
Fisher Building
Fisher Building
Ford Field
Ford Field
Ford Piquette Avenue Plant
Ford Piquette Avenue Plant
Fort Shelby
Fort Shelby
Fort Street Presbyterian Church
Fort Street Presbyterian Church
Fort Washington Plaza
Fort Washington Plaza
Fort Wayne
Fort Wayne
Fox Theatre
Fox Theatre
Frederick K. Stearns House
Frederick K. Stearns House
Garden Bowl
Garden Bowl
Garden Court Apartments
Garden Court Apartments
Garden Theatre
Garden Theatre
Gem Theatre
Gem Theatre
George W. Loomer House
George W. Loomer House
Grande Ballroom
Grande Ballroom
Greektown Casino Hotel
Greektown Casino Hotel
Greenfield Union School
Greenfield Union School
Greenfield Village Station
Greenfield Village Station
Griswold Street
Griswold Street
Guardian Building
Guardian Building
Hamtramck Disneyland
Hamtramck Disneyland
Harmonie Centre
Harmonie Centre
Harmonie Club
Harmonie Club
Harper University Hospital
Harper University Hospital
Henry Ford Hospital
Henry Ford Hospital
Herman Strasburg House
Herman Strasburg House
Historic Trinity Lutheran Church
Historic Trinity Lutheran Church
Hitsville U.S.A.
Hitsville U.S.A.
Hudson-Evans House
Hudson-Evans House
Inn At 97 Winder
Inn At 97 Winder
Isaac Agree Downtown Synagogue
Isaac Agree Downtown Synagogue
James A. Garfield School
James A. Garfield School
James Scott Memorial Fountain
James Scott Memorial Fountain
Joe Louis Arena
Joe Louis Arena
L. B. King And Company Building
L. B. King And Company Building
Lewis College Of Business
Lewis College Of Business
Little Caesars Arena
Little Caesars Arena
Maccabees Building
Maccabees Building
Majestic Theatre
Majestic Theatre
Manoogian Mansion
Manoogian Mansion
|
  Mariners' Church
| Mariners' Church
Mcgregor Memorial Conference Center
Mcgregor Memorial Conference Center
Merchants Building
Merchants Building
Mgm Grand Detroit
Mgm Grand Detroit
Michigan Bell And Western Electric Warehouse
Michigan Bell And Western Electric Warehouse
Michigan Central Station
Michigan Central Station
Michigan Science Center
Michigan Science Center
|
  Michigan Soldiers' And Sailors' Monument
| Michigan Soldiers' And Sailors' Monument
Monument To Joe Louis
Monument To Joe Louis
Moross House
Moross House
Most Holy Redeemer Church
Most Holy Redeemer Church
Motorcity Casino Hotel
Motorcity Casino Hotel
Mulford T. Hunter House
Mulford T. Hunter House
Music Hall Center For The Performing Arts
Music Hall Center For The Performing Arts
Nellie Leland School
Nellie Leland School
Old Main
Old Main
One Detroit Center
One Detroit Center
Orchestra Hall
Orchestra Hall
Our Lady Of The Rosary Roman Catholic Church
Our Lady Of The Rosary Roman Catholic Church
Packard Automotive Plant
Packard Automotive Plant
Pasadena Apartments
Pasadena Apartments
Penobscot Building
Penobscot Building
Perry Mcadow House
Perry Mcadow House
Pewabic Pottery
Pewabic Pottery
Philip A. Hart Plaza
Philip A. Hart Plaza
Professional Plaza Tower
Professional Plaza Tower
Redford High School
Redford High School
Renaissance Center
Renaissance Center
Riverside Park
Riverside Park
Riverwalk Hotel Detroit
Riverwalk Hotel Detroit
Rouge Park
Rouge Park
Sacred Heart Major Seminary
Sacred Heart Major Seminary
Sacred Heart Roman Catholic Church
Sacred Heart Roman Catholic Church
|
  Saint Andrew'S Hall
| Saint Andrew'S Hall
|
  Saint Andrew'S Memorial Episcopal Church
| Saint Andrew'S Memorial Episcopal Church
Saints Peter And Paul Church
Saints Peter And Paul Church
Samuel L. Smith House
Samuel L. Smith House
Savoyard Centre
Savoyard Centre
Scarab Club
Scarab Club
Second Baptist Church
Second Baptist Church
Sibley House
Sibley House
Sidney D. Miller Middle School
Sidney D. Miller Middle School
St. Albertus Roman Catholic Church
St. Albertus Roman Catholic Church
St. Boniface Roman Catholic Church
St. Boniface Roman Catholic Church
St. Charles Borromeo Roman Catholic Church
St. Charles Borromeo Roman Catholic Church
|
  St. John'S Episcopal Church
| St. John'S Episcopal Church
|
  St. Josaphat'S Roman Catholic Church
| St. Josaphat'S Roman Catholic Church
St. Joseph Shrine, Detroit
St. Joseph Shrine, Detroit
St. Mary Roman Catholic Church
St. Mary Roman Catholic Church
St. Stanislaus Bishop And Martyr Roman Catholic Church
St. Stanislaus Bishop And Martyr Roman Catholic Church
St. Theresa Of Avila Roman Catholic Church
St. Theresa Of Avila Roman Catholic Church
|
  St. Thomas The Apostle'S Church
| St. Thomas The Apostle'S Church
Ste. Anne De Detroit Catholic Church
Ste. Anne De Detroit Catholic Church
Stuber-Stone Building
Stuber-Stone Building
Sweetest Heart Of Mary Roman Catholic Church
Sweetest Heart Of Mary Roman Catholic Church
Tcf Center
Tcf Center
The Fillmore Detroit
The Fillmore Detroit
The Kean
The Kean
The Leland Hotel
The Leland Hotel
The Whittier
The Whittier
Theodore Levin United States Courthouse
Theodore Levin United States Courthouse
Tiger Stadium
Tiger Stadium
Tushiyah United Hebrew School – Scott Memorial Methodist Episcopal Church
Tushiyah United Hebrew School – Scott Memorial Methodist Episcopal Church
United Artists Theatre Building
United Artists Theatre Building
University Of Detroit Stadium
University Of Detroit Stadium
Verona Apartments
Verona Apartments
Vinton Building
Vinton Building
Wayne State Arena
Wayne State Arena
Wayne State University
Wayne State University
West Canfield Historic District
West Canfield Historic District
Westin Book Cadillac Hotel
Westin Book Cadillac Hotel
William C. Boydell House
William C. Boydell House
William G. Milliken State Park And Harbor
William G. Milliken State Park And Harbor
Willis Avenue Station
Willis Avenue Station