League Stadium anchors Huntingburg summer baseball and downtown tourism

League Stadium, at 203 S. Cherry St. in Huntingburg, is one of Dubois County’s most recognizable public spaces. Built in 1894 and famous for its classic hillside setting and appearance in the film A League of Their Own, the ballpark hosts the Dubois County Bombers, a collegiate wood-bat summer team, as well as high school games and community events. Its seasonality and draw make the stadium a focal point for downtown tourism and local gatherings.

The stadium’s importance goes beyond nostalgia. Summer games bring crowds to downtown Huntingburg, supporting restaurants, shops and small businesses that rely on consistent foot traffic. Youth games and community events that use the field create opportunities for physical activity, social connection and local volunteerism. For families without access to private recreation, League Stadium provides an affordable place to gather, spectate and participate in civic life.

From a public health standpoint, outdoor recreational venues like League Stadium offer benefits and challenges. Regular community access to sports and outdoor events supports physical and mental well-being for children and adults. At the same time, organizers and local officials must account for health and safety needs: accessible seating and pathways for people with disabilities, adequate hydration and shade during hot months, restroom availability, and clear emergency access for medical services. Ensuring inclusive programming and low-cost admission can help reduce disparities in who benefits from these community assets.

Policy choices will shape whether League Stadium continues to serve the whole community equitably. Maintenance and historic preservation require steady investment; volunteer-led fundraising and town support often fill gaps, but sustained capital planning and grant-seeking can stabilize the stadium’s future. Partnerships between the Bombers, local schools, the city and county tourism entities can expand youth programming, create sliding-scale ticketing, and coordinate off-field health services such as vaccine clinics or community health screenings during events.

Tourism tied to League Stadium also amplifies Huntingburg’s downtown identity. Visitors who come for a game often spend time at nearby shops and restaurants, amplifying local revenue. That economic boost can be a lever to advocate for investments that keep the stadium safe, accessible and welcoming to all residents, including low-income families and older Hoosiers.

The takeaway? Treat League Stadium like a public health and community asset. Attend a game, ask local leaders about accessibility and funding plans, and support policies that keep admission affordable and infrastructure maintained. Small actions — showing up, speaking at a meeting, or volunteering — help ensure this historic ballpark keeps delivering hometown value for generations. For schedules and more information, visit visitduboiscounty.com/plan-your-visit/league-stadium/