48 Hours in CLE: Baseball

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 Tribe boasts a future Hall of Famer in the dugout and talent across the diamond. Yep, this is one of the best teams in the Majors.

Indians baseball is more than just a game. It’s a lifestyle. Let’s make it a Tribe weekend — 48 hours of the sights, sounds and tastes of baseball in The Land.

Day One

Breakfast

Spice Kitchen + Bar in Gordon Square offers the perfect start to the weekend. With much of their food grown in Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Spice puts a whole new spin on farm-to-table. Try the Cinnamon Spice Waffles, Potato Doughnuts or Smoked Salmon Cleveland Bagel. We promise that fueling up for a big day never tasted so good.

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 4^th Street. Sample the standout craft beer from Butcher and the Brewer, Greenhouse Tavern or 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 Indians 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 Tribe 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.