The development of mixed-use entertainment districts surrounding major sports venues is gaining momentum, driven by the strong performance of real estate near these entertainment anchors, according to a JLL analysis.
These “stadium districts” are lifestyle-oriented ecosystems that help sports teams maintain strong attendance, even during losing seasons, by offering year-round attractions. This trend accelerated in 1992 with the opening of Camden Yards, the Baltimore Orioles’ ballpark that set a new standard for amenities and fan experience. From 1994 to 2012, nearly three-quarters of MLB teams built new stadiums, aiming to replicate the success of Camden Yards.
Historically, stadium development has shifted over time. Early projects were integrated into dense, walkable urban cores. As suburbanization accelerated, stadiums moved to stand-alone sites surrounded by freeways and parking lots, creating isolated venues with limited commercial activity outside of game days.
While urban repopulation and mixed-use development have become priorities for commercial real estate investors, sports venues have been slow to reintegrate into city centers due to limited site availability and accessibility challenges.
The Atlanta Braves offer a standout example of modern stadium district innovation. As the team’s lease at Turner Field neared expiration in 2016, the MLB franchise acquired 60 acres of suburban land. It developed The Battery Atlanta—a master-planned lifestyle district anchored by the stadium. The project includes one million square feet of commercial space, more than 500 residential units and a hotel.
“The density and mix of commercial spaces have successfully created a 365-day vibrant ecosystem within The Battery, and its real estate components are delivering strong performance,” the report noted. Residential occupancy is 1.7% higher than the submarket average, while office and retail spaces are more than 99% leased.
The Battery is one of the top-performing stadium districts. The Braves are currently the only MLB team achieving nearly 90% of capacity, despite holding a losing record in 2025.
Other successful examples include Petco Park (San Diego Padres) located in the heart of the Gaslamp Quarter, a walkable district known for restaurants and nightlife; Oracle Park (San Francisco Giants) positioned along the waterfront with organic connections to Mission Bay and new developments and Coors Field (Colorado Rockies) embedded in Denver’s LoDo neighborhood, a revitalized warehouse district now known for entertainment, dining, creative office space and residential growth.
Looking ahead, JLL predicts that by 2040, at least half of MLB organizations will announce plans for new stadiums or major redevelopments of existing venues. Other professional sports leagues and non-sports entertainment operators are expected to follow this model.
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