Cleveland goes crazy for baseball. Back in the ‘90s (and early ‘00s), we packed the stadium full for 455 straight games. That’s over five seasons of sellout crowds. Now the Guardians boast a future Hall of Famer in the dugout, a formidable pitching rotation and bright, young talent on the diamond. Baseball is more than just a game in Cleveland, it’s a lifestyle.
Let’s make it a Guardians weekend — 48 hours of the sights, sounds and tastes of America's pastime in The Land.
Day One
Breakfast
Start the day right by fueling up on excellent, inexpensive and inclusive diner food at Tommy's in Coventry, where they do right by customers who are vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free and meat-eaters alike. It also happens to have an adorable aesthetic. Scope local art and keep an eye out for famous diners (there have been a lot, including Alicia Keys and Danny DeVito). We know it's breakfast, but grabbing one of their legendary milkshakes on the way out is still an option.
Morning
Spend the rest of the morning immersed in local baseball history and the multicultural legacy of the national pastime. Housed in historic League Park’s ticket office, the Baseball Heritage Museum has it all. Don’t miss the exhibits on Indians legends and the less-heralded Negro and women’s leagues.
Lunch
Pre-game on East 4th Street. Sample the standout craft beer from Butcher and the Brewer and Mabel's BBQ, or grab a cocktail at Society Lounge. Seriously, they’re all amazing.
Still searching for that perfect look for tonight’s game? No worries. Swing by CLE Clothing Co.’s East 4th shop to pick up the latest from their baseball apparel collection.
Afternoon
Great Lakes Brewing Company is a local institution with multiple award-winning beers in their portfolio. Their brewery tours give visitors a look at how they make their masterpieces, as well as a trip through Cleveland History. You better believe beer is included with the tour.
Dinner
Flat Iron Cafe offers a special perk to diners — a free ride to Progressive Field. Powerhouse Pierogis. Homemade Guinness Ice Cream. You can’t go wrong. Then hop in the shuttle, kick up your feet and be chauffeured directly to the stadium. Talk about door-to-door service.
Game Time
Rush on over to The District at Progressive Field and snag a sweet standing-room spot with the other Cleveland Guardians diehards. A $15 District Ticket grants park admission and a free drink. The right-field corner is the perfect place to scope the sunset, socialize and cheer on the home team. The fun starts early on most Saturdays, with live pre-game entertainment and discounted domestic cans.
Day Two
Breakfast
You’ve heard about Brewnuts, right? That Gordon Square landmark that makes donuts with one very extra special ingredient: craft beer. Yes, it’s true. Check out the wide assortment of house staples, seasonal specialties or even their Letter Donuts. Pick up a C-L-E for us.
Morning
Catch baseball fever at the Cleveland History Center in University Circle. Grab a seat for the informational — and inspirational — video on the Cleveland Buckeyes Negro League team. Don’t leave without taking a spin on the Euclid Beach Park Carousel. It’s a beloved city relic.
Afternoon
What could be better than matinee baseball at Progressive Field? Try getting to the park a little early. Trust us, it’s totally worth it. Heritage Park. The Corner Bar. Enjoy it all before the crowds arrive. Then settle in and get ready for another Guardians victory, courtesy of our very own boys of summer.
Post Game
Hot dogs are practically their own food group for baseball fans. And Happy Dog serves them up like no other. Possible toppings include Froot Loops, Spaghetti O’s, chunky peanut butter… Well, you get the idea. Dress up your dog any way you like. The zanier, the better.
Evening
Still buzzing from that big victory? Head over to Superelectric Pinball Parlor and try your hand at an entirely different kind of ball game. With over twenty machines ranging from the vintage to cutting-edge, something will catch your eye. Plus, Sunday is Family Day. Free tokens with every drink purchase.
Where to Stay
Fans staying near Progressive Field have their pick of fantastic hotels including the Hilton Garden Inn Cleveland Downtown, Radisson Gateway, Residence Inn by Marriott, Hyatt Regency Cleveland at the Arcade or Holiday Inn Express. Those looking for something a little more boutique might try the Metropolitan Hotel at The 9 or Kimpton Schofield. Stay at the Ritz-Carlton or Renaissance Cleveland Hotel and take the Tower City walkway to the ballpark.