William R. Bowdoin Field

Photos by David Welch, Stadium Journey

Stadium Info FANFARE Score: 2.71

William R. Bowden Field Viking Way Mount Berry, GA 30149

Year Opened: 1988

Capacity: 600

We All Row

Baseball began at Berry College, located in the northwest Georgia city of Rome, in 1948, though the program experienced two extended pauses, first from 1950 to 1954, and again from 1977 to 1987. Berry competed as a member of the NAIA until 2009, when the school transitioned to NCAA Division III. While the Vikings have not produced many professional players, alumnus Collin McHugh did enjoy an 11-year major league career.

Since joining Division III, Berry has competed in the Southern Athletic Association (SAA), which includes schools from across Alabama, Arkansas, Georgia, Kentucky, Mississippi, and Tennessee.

Food & Beverage 3

Concessions are located on the lower level of the press box behind home plate, and offer a surprisingly broad menu. Fans can choose from pizza slices, hot dogs, nachos, and Chick-fil-A sandwiches – available as combo meals with chips and a drink. Additional snacks include popcorn, candy, and the ever-popular ballpark pickle.

Beverage options include Coca-Cola soft drinks, Powerade, Dasani water, hot chocolate, and coffee; the latter being especially welcome on chilly spring days. Alcohol is not available at Berry College baseball games.

Atmosphere 2

William R. Bowdoin Field is a straightforward and modest facility, with a single set of aluminum bleachers spanning from dugout to dugout running about ten rows deep. The seats lack back support, so bringing a seat cushion or portable backrest might improve comfort. The top row offers a low railing that can be leaned against for minimal support. Beyond the right field fence is the “Cloud 9 Baseball Alumni Deck” – the deck is named in honor of David C. Cloud, and offers a unique perspective to watch the game from.

The field itself mirrors the simplicity of the stadium: 330 feet down each foul line, 375 to the power alleys, and 400 to center field. An 8-foot outfield fence is backed by a tree line of Georgia pines and oaks.

In-game entertainment is minimal, with only music played between half-innings.

Neighborhood 3

The unincorporated Mount Berry is on the northern outskirts of the city of Rome, Georgia, and is almost the dividing line of where neighborhoods meet sprawling countryside.

“Neighborhood” is a bit of a relative term when it comes to Berry College, as the campus is almost a city unto itself – at 27,000 acres, Berry’s campus is the largest in the world, including miles of walking trails, research environments, and endless beauty.

Mount Berry is a short drive to downtown Rome and several restaurants and shops. Just around the corner is AdventHealth Stadium, home of the Rome Emperors and a small development consisting of an Italian restaurant and coffee shop. Main Street Rome also has a collection of restaurants and shops, and the town also boasts a scenic riverwalk made up of 13 miles of paved trails that meander along the Coosa, Oostanaula, and Etowah rivers.

Fans 2

Crowds typically range from 100 to 200 fans per game. While they’re engaged and quick to show appreciation for good plays – or frustration with umpires – they don’t create a particularly intimidating atmosphere. The fan base is supportive but lacks the numbers or volume to give Bowdoin Field a true home-field advantage.

Access 3

Berry College is a bit off the beaten path. Visitors coming from Atlanta or Chattanooga will travel along I-75, followed by a 30+ minute drive on state highways to reach the campus.

When using GPS, note that the main entrance is not the first road indicated. Instead, access the campus via the second entrance along Martha Berry Boulevard, which leads directly to central campus.

Bowdoin Field is located on the outer edge of Berry’s campus; a large parking lot runs along the third base side of the stadium, though caution is advised when choosing a space so as to avoid foul balls.

Return on Investment 4

There’s no charge for admission to Berry College baseball games, and parking is free as well. Concessions are reasonably priced, with combo deals offering solid value for fans.

Extras 2

The rear of the press box displays the team’s achievements, including conference championships, NCAA regional appearances, and trips to the Division III College World Series.

With its 27,000 acres, Berry College boasts the largest contiguous college campus in the world, including miles of scenic walking trails and farmland. Just beyond the right field line, pens holding cows and horses provide a uniquely pastoral backdrop that adds a distinct character to the ballpark.

Final Thoughts

William R. Bowdoin Field may not have many modern amenities, but it offers a relaxed college baseball experience in a scenic, peaceful setting. The venue is simple, with a supportive fan base and a bit of small-town charm. For those seeking a quiet afternoon of baseball surrounded by nature, many will likely find a trip to Berry College a worthwhile and enjoyable stop.

William R. Bowdoin Field - Berry Vikings