Spring Training in Phoenix

Although it’s still football season here in New England (go Pats!), I’m excited for baseball season to start.  While my beloved Red Sox don’t play in the Cactus League, many other great teams do.  If you are looking for a March getaway, and want to catch some great spring training games, consider visiting the greater Phoenix area.

Last year, I had the opportunity to visit Phoenix during spring training, and I had such a great time that I decided to visit this year with my family.  We are visiting in March, and plan to check out several games.

During spring training, there’s no such thing as a bad (or expensive) seat.  I went to three games at three different stadiums, and loved feeling like I am part of the action.  Although Fenway Park is small, I never get that kind of up-close experience during the regular season.  Plus, the warm weather makes it such a fabulous outdoor activity.  We plan to get lawn seats, like those shown in the photo above, and just spread out and enjoy.

Spring training in Phoenix starts March 2, 2012.

Photo credit: Jodi Grundig

Disclosure: The Greater Phoenix Convention and Visitor’s Bureau covered the expenses for my spring training and family fun trip last year.

This Sunday, February 5, is Super Bowl Sunday. It’s like a holiday. The big game will be held in Indianapolis, Indiana at the Lucas Oil Stadium, which is a fantastic piece of kinetic architecture (that means it has moving parts).

Indianapolis is second only to Washington, D.C. in the number of monuments within the city, and it also features two natural waterways that run through it. Basically, it’s a pretty town.

The New York Giants will be playing the New England Patriots. Despite the Patriots playing in the same division as the Indianapolis Colts (AFC) I’m guessing that Giants’ quarterback Eli Manning, being brother to the Colts’ Peyton Manning, will garner the cheers of the hometown fans.

Remember, get to the stadium early for a good parking spot, and better yet, more time to tailgate (be responsible!).

If you’re looking for a good place for lunch and a beer check out Basey’s Downtown Grill and Spirits or Tavern on South, both are walking distance from the Lucas Oil Stadium. Also walking distance are some nice, affordable, and probably booked hotels, Comfort Suites City Centre and Holiday Inn Express.

Directions to Lucas Oil Stadium

Have a good time!

Photo: Triple Tri via Flickr

Jellyfish

Although their bodies are composed of 95 percent water, jellyfish remain some of  the most fascinating and diverse sea creatures.  They also prose real creative challenges for researchers, which is why the elaborate exhibit, “Jellies” at the Shedd Aquarium through May 28, provides such a rare glimpse into the world of these see-through sea animals. Read More »

Maid-Rite drive-ins have been feeding the Midwest since 1926. That’s a lot of sandwiches.

The restaurant chain is headquartered in Iowa, but has additional locations in Nebraska, Illinois, Minnesota, Missouri, and Ohio. Carry out beer is not available in all stores, but it should be.

There’s nothing better than good food on a family road trip. While the bigger chains are convenient and often necessary, it’s always nice to try someplace local. What are some of the regional favorites in your area?

This post is part of Uptake’s Tuesday Roadside Attractions Series. If you have a photo of an odd, funny or interesting roadside attraction that you would like to see featured here please submit it via the link in the sidebar with subject line: Roadside.