HomeTrust Park, the longtime home of the Asheville Tourists, is one of the oldest and most characterful ballparks in minor-league baseball. It opened in 1924, sits on a hillside just south of downtown at 30 Buchanan Place and has hosted Babe Ruth, Lou Gehrig and Jackie Robinson. It was also a filming location for the 1988 movie Bull Durham. The park is known for its short right-field distance, about 297 feet to a 36-foot wall that draws comparisons to Fenway Park's Green Monster, and for views of the Blue Ridge foothills beyond the outfield. The Tourists are a High-A affiliate of the Houston Astros, which means you see prospects on their way up, at ticket prices far below the major leagues. A major renovation, the Centennial Restoration, finished for Opening Day 2026 and added new clubhouses, a year-round event space, a video board and an expanded concourse, while keeping the park's historic feel. The food and drink lean local, with craft beer and options for vegan and gluten-free guests. The baseball season runs from spring into early fall, with home games on most evenings and some weekend afternoons, so check the schedule for dates. Parking at the ballpark is very limited, and the hill to the front gate is steep, so plan to use the shuttle or a rideshare, and take advantage of the courtesy golf cart. Bags must be smaller than 8.5 by 11 inches. The first-base side gets shade earlier in the evening, which matters on hot summer nights.
Why go
This is baseball on a human scale. The seats are close, the staff are friendly, the mascot and between-inning games keep children busy and the sunset over the foothills is as good a reason to come as the score. Even non-fans enjoy an evening here, and the ballpark's history gives it a sense of place.
Making the most of it
Buy tickets online ahead of time for weekend games and fireworks nights. Arrive early to find parking or ride the courtesy trolley that runs before first pitch from a downtown garage. Wear sunscreen and a hat for day games and bring layers for cool spring evenings. Remember that the hill is steep, so wear comfortable shoes. Group areas and party decks are available for birthdays and office outings.
The game-day experience
Expect a family-friendly evening with promotions, between-inning contests and the occasional fireworks night. Seats are close enough to hear the crack of the bat, and the pace of a minor-league game is relaxed, so children can wander the concourse and adults can talk. Food lines move quickly, and local beer is a draw for many fans.
Because the park is on a hill, the sun sets behind the stands in some sections, so choose your seat accordingly. If you are visiting for the history, arrive early to walk the concourse and look at the photographs and displays that mark the park's long past, including its role in movie history.
Practicals and fit
30 Buchanan Place, Asheville, just south of downtown; seasonal, spring through early fall; tickets sold online and at the box office. Fit: families, baseball fans, history lovers, couples looking for a casual summer evening and groups on a budget.
What to expect
The experience
A minor-league baseball game at a historic hillside ballpark with a short right-field wall, mountain views and craft beer.
Best time
Spring through early fall, mostly evenings; first-base seats are shaded earlier on hot nights.
How long
About three hours for a game.
Tips
Parking is very limited and the gate is up a steep hill. Use the courtesy trolley or rideshare, and keep bags under 8.5 by 11 inches.
Quick picks
- Best for
- An affordable, characterful summer evening.
- Families
- Close seats, between-inning fun and low prices.
- Couples
- Craft beer and sunset views over the foothills.
- Pair with
- A South Slope brewery before the game or a Biltmore Avenue dinner after.
- Time needed
- An evening.
Good questions
When is the baseball season?+
From spring into early fall. Check the team's schedule for home dates and start times.
Where is the ballpark?+
HomeTrust Park is at 30 Buchanan Place, on a hillside just south of downtown Asheville.
How old is the ballpark?+
It opened in 1924, and a major renovation was completed for the 2026 season.
Where do I park?+
Parking at the ballpark is very limited. A courtesy trolley runs from a downtown garage before first pitch, and rideshare is also easy.
What team plays there?+
The Asheville Tourists, a High-A affiliate of the Houston Astros.
