Welcome to the Queensland Geographical Society, your dedicated hub for exploring the diverse landscapes and geographical wonders of Queensland. Based in Brisbane, we offer a range of resources and activities designed to enhance your understanding of geography.
Our offerings include:
- Maps: Access detailed maps that highlight the unique features of Queensland's geography.
- Field Trips: Join us for guided excursions that allow you to experience the natural beauty and cultural significance of various locations.
- Podcasts: Tune into our podcast series, where we discuss geographical topics, share stories, and interview experts in the field.
At the Queensland Geographical Society, we are committed to clarity and education, drawing inspiration from the Royal Geographical Society of Queensland. Whether you are a geography enthusiast, a student, or simply curious about the world around you, we invite you to explore our resources and participate in our community activities.
Visiting loanDepot park: a geographer's guide to bags, food and getting there
loanDepot park is the retractable-roof baseball stadium in Miami, Florida, home of Major League Baseball's Miami Marlins. It sits in the Little Havana neighbourhood, on the site of the former Orange Bowl, a few kilometres west of downtown Miami. For anyone travelling from Queensland, it makes an interesting case study in how a stadium is shaped by its setting: the roof exists largely because of South Florida's subtropical climate, with summer heat, high humidity and frequent afternoon thunderstorms. That will feel familiar to anyone who has sat through a Brisbane summer.
Bag policy
Like most major US stadiums, loanDepot park enforces a strict bag policy. Clear bags and small clutch-style bags are generally the safest choice. Large backpacks are typically refused at the gates. Rules can change from season to season, so check the Marlins' official website before you go. Travel light, and leave camera bags and day packs at your accommodation.
Food and drink
The ballpark's concessions reflect the city around it. Cuban and Latin American flavours appear alongside standard ballpark fare, a small example of how a neighbourhood's cultural geography shows up on a menu. Rules on bringing outside food and sealed water bottles are set by the venue and may be updated, so confirm them in advance rather than relying on older guides.
Parking and transport
The stadium has on-site parking garages, which usually need to be booked ahead on busy game days. Traffic around Little Havana can be slow before and after games. Rideshare and public transport options exist, but they take some planning. Look at a map of the surrounding street grid before you travel. Allow extra time, and work out a meeting point in case phones fail in the crowds.
Reading a stadium like a landscape
Stadiums are useful places to practise urban geography. You can see how transport corridors, land-use history and climate all affect the way a venue works. If you enjoy thinking about places this way, browse our Places section or the practical Guides. You can also join one of our field trips closer to home in Queensland.
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