Are you planning a baseball road trip this summer? If you are, consider Cleveland. This underrated city on the shores of Lake Erie is friendly, affordable, and easy to reach. There are plenty of unique attractions and a thriving scene for food and drink. Let's explore Cleveland...

An Overview Of Cleveland

Quite possibly no city in America has undergone a more radical transformation in the last 25 years than Cleveland. What used to be a city based on heavy industry is now a health care, research, and high tech economy. And while the city has its struggles like any major metropolitan area, it is a great destination, particularly for a weekend baseball road trip.

Situated on the south shore of Lake Erie, Cleveland is cooled in the summer and warmed in the winter by the tempering effects of the lake. Several major interstates intersect here, making the city an easy destination to reach by car. Direct flights here are available from just about every major U.S. airport.

While here, you will want to visit the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and a few of Cleveland's unique neighborhoods like the Warehouse District, Shaker Heights, and Little Italy. And of course there's Progressive Field, adjacent to downtown and home of the Cleveland Indians. Another great summer activity is a cruise on Lake Erie, departing daily along the lake shore.

Cleveland Baseball

The Cleveland Indians play at Progressive Field, less than a mile from downtown and a venue where you are close to the action. Tickets are generally available on game day since the team's fortunes have taken a downturn in recent seasons. To get to the game, we recommend catching one of the many shuttles from area bars and restaurants, or simply taking a short taxi ride if you are staying downtown. If you're driving, ample parking is available.

For a glimpse of baseball history, head east from downtown toward Little Italy and drive by the intersection of 66th and Lexington, where you'll find League Park, a community park and youth baseball field. This is the site of the Indians first ballpark, and efforts are underway to restore the site and upgrade facilities. A few mementos and plaques are on display to spotlight historical baseball events.

Cleveland Originals

For food and drink, skip the chain restaurants and head to some of Cleveland's independent dining and drinking establishments. We love the Great Lakes Brewing Company, less than five minutes from the ballpark and just down the street from the West Side Market, a fun place to stroll around. If you're here at the market around lunch time, stop by the Johnny Hot Dog stand and enjoy one of their tasty natural casing sausages.

Also within minutes of the ballpark is the Flat Iron Cafe, where the fish fry reigns supreme in an historic setting dating back to 1910. Both establishments offer shuttles to the game.

A few miles east of downtown is Little Italy, a small cluster of Italian bakeries, restaurants, and shops. Walk this area, peek at a few menus posted outside, and take your pick for dinner. You won't go wrong wherever you choose! We like to stop in at one of the bakeries for a fresh baked Italian style dessert, or even for the next day's breakfast.

Summary

Cleveland is an excellent choice for a baseball road trip destination. Leave your preconceptions behind and soak in the great original atmosphere of this welcoming city on the shores of Lake Erie.

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