Bud Metheny Baseball Complex

Bud Metheny Baseball Complex Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Norfolk Historical Sites Guide

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

The Bud Metheny Baseball Complex, located on the vibrant campus of Old Dominion University (ODU) in Norfolk, Virginia, is a storied landmark of collegiate baseball. Honoring legendary coach Arthur “Bud” Metheny, who shaped ODU’s baseball program from 1948 to 1980, the complex has been central to Monarchs baseball and the local community for decades. Now undergoing a transformative $24 million renovation—soon to be unveiled as the Ellmer Family Baseball Complex—the venue blends rich tradition with state-of-the-art amenities, ensuring an elevated experience for fans, athletes, and visitors alike.

This detailed guide provides essential information on visiting hours, ticketing, accessibility, travel tips, and nearby attractions, making it your go-to resource for planning a memorable trip to this premier baseball destination and the broader Norfolk area.

Introduction
Historical Context and Significance
Renovations and Modernization
Stadium Layout and Amenities
Visiting the Complex: Hours, Tickets, and Directions
Accessibility and Fan Experience
Community and Alumni Engagement
Nearby Norfolk Attractions
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Summary and Final Tips
References

Historical Context and Significance

Honoring Bud Metheny

The complex is dedicated to Arthur “Bud” Metheny, whose remarkable tenure as coach from 1948 to 1980 cemented ODU’s place in collegiate baseball. Metheny’s leadership and dedication to both athletics and academics left a lasting legacy, reflected in the stadium’s enduring name (ODU Wiki; Stadium Journey).

Home of the Monarchs

Since its opening in 1983, the Bud Metheny Baseball Complex has served as the home for the Old Dominion Monarchs, now competing in the Sun Belt Conference. The venue has played host to conference championships, NCAA tournament appearances, youth clinics, and community events, fostering a deep sense of pride and tradition among students, alumni, and Norfolk residents (Wikipedia).

Renovations and Modernization

Transformative Upgrades

Recognizing the need for modern facilities, ODU launched a comprehensive $24 million renovation effort, rebranding the venue as the Ellmer Family Baseball Complex in honor of major donors Dennis and Jan Ellmer (ODU News). Key features of the renovation include:

Expanded seating capacity (up to 3,000 with standing room)
2,032 individual chairback seats
Luxury suites and the Diamond Club premium lounge
Upgraded press and media facilities
Modernized locker rooms, training, and rehabilitation areas
Enhanced concessions and restrooms
Improved ADA accessibility throughout the complex

The renovations also include a new entrance plaza and community spaces, blending historic charm with contemporary design (ODU Sports; Rebuild the Bud; Moseley Designs).

Stadium Layout and Amenities

The renovated stadium is designed for optimal comfort and viewing, featuring three main raised seating sections, standing room, and temporary stands for high-demand games. Premium hospitality zones like the Priority Automotive Club and Rally Alley offer exclusive experiences for fans. The Paul Keyes Indoor Hitting Facility and advanced training areas support player development year-round.

Additional amenities include:

Spacious press box with TV/radio booths and 28 media seats
Modern audiovisual systems and stadium lighting for night games
Family-friendly picnic spaces and social areas
ADA-compliant ramps, elevators, and seating (Trek Zone)

Visiting the Complex: Hours, Tickets, and Directions

Visiting Hours

Game Days: Gates open 60–90 minutes before first pitch; check the ODU Athletics schedule for details.
Non-Game Days/Special Events: Guided tours may be available by appointment. Contact the ODU Athletics Department for scheduling.

Tickets

Purchase Options: Online via the ODU Athletics ticket portal, at the box office, or through authorized vendors.
Pricing: General admission typically ranges from $8–$12, with discounts for students, seniors, and groups. Season passes and premium seating packages are available.

Directions & Parking

Address: 5115 Hampton Blvd, Norfolk, VA 23529
Parking: On-site and nearby lots are available; temporary parking zones may apply during construction. Consult the ODU Athletics parking page for maps and shuttle information.
Public Transit: Several Norfolk bus routes serve the campus, making travel convenient for all visitors.

Accessibility and Fan Experience

Fully ADA-compliant seating, ramps, restrooms, and parking
Modern concessions with diverse food and beverage options
Family zones, interactive fan activities, and merchandise shops
Enhanced lighting, sound, and digital displays for an immersive game-day atmosphere (ODU Accessibility Services)

Community and Alumni Engagement

The renovation and expansion have been driven by strong alumni and community support, with nearly 90% of fundraising goals met (ODU AF). Donor programs such as the Diamond Club foster deeper connections and provide exclusive benefits.

Nearby Norfolk Attractions

Enhance your visit by exploring Norfolk’s cultural and historical sites:

Nauticus & Battleship Wisconsin: Premier maritime museum and historic battleship
Chrysler Museum of Art: Renowned art collections
Norfolk Botanical Garden: Scenic outdoor attractions
Downtown Waterfront: Vibrant dining, shopping, and entertainment

The complex’s central location also provides easy access to ODU’s Baron and Ellin Gordon Art Galleries, Chartway Arena, and the Old Dominion Soccer Complex (Trek Zone).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the typical visiting hours for the complex?
A: Gates open 60–90 minutes before games. For tours, contact ODU Athletics.

Q: How can I buy tickets?
A: Purchase online via the ODU Athletics ticket portal or at the box office.

Q: Is the stadium ADA accessible?
A: Yes, the facility is fully ADA-compliant.

Q: Where can I park?
A: On-site and nearby parking lots are available; check the ODU Athletics parking page.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Tours may be available by appointment. Contact ODU Athletics for information.

Q: What other attractions are nearby?
A: Attractions include Nauticus, the Battleship Wisconsin, Chrysler Museum of Art, and the Norfolk Botanical Garden.

Summary and Final Tips

The Bud Metheny Baseball Complex, soon to be fully realized as the Ellmer Family Baseball Complex, embodies a proud legacy and dynamic future within Norfolk’s sporting landscape. Visitors can expect:

Modern, comfortable seating and premium hospitality options
Enhanced ADA accessibility and family-friendly amenities
Advanced player development and media facilities
A welcoming, community-focused atmosphere

Combine your love of baseball with explorations of Norfolk’s historical and cultural attractions for a memorable experience. Stay updated on schedules, ticket releases, and special events via the ODU Athletics website, social media, or the Audiala app. Secure your tickets and be part of ODU’s next era in collegiate baseball (ODU Sports; ODU AF).