ADUHAI

If you love baseball, this is the time of year when your anthem becomes “Take Me Out to the Ball Game.” Major League Baseball begins its 2010 season this week, marking the start of six months of the national pastime, played in parks both new and historic.

Even if you’re not a fan, there’s probably something for you nearby: Many ballparks are located in or near great neighborhoods that offer travelers dining, entertainment and fun cultural activities..

Bing Travel’s newest slide show gives you the scoop on 10 places that pull off this double play, pairing a great stadium with an exciting community. You might want to check out the Padres’ Petco Park, set amid San Diego’s hip Victorian neighborhood, the Gaslamp Quarter. Or try the Twins’ Target Field, making its debut this year in Minneapolis, surrounded by the cultural opportunities of the Warehouse District. On the other end of the ballpark-age spectrum is Boston’s grand old lady, 98-year-old Fenway Park, home to the Red Sox and near the chic boutiques and bars of the South End.

I’m a lifelong Mariners fan, and Seattle’s Pioneer Square is still my favorite baseball neighborhood. If I’ve dragged a non-fan to the game, I always like to reward him or her afterwards by stopping in one of the happening spots here.

What are your favorite ballparks — and what do you like best about the districts they’re located in? Share your thoughts with other travelers in the comments section. Play ball!