Here’s some trivia: Which team broke Cleveland’s drought of 52 years without a professional sports championship? Here’s a hint: It’s not the Cavs. Here’s another hint: They play on ice.
Hockey in Cleveland has a long and storied history. In 2016, just weeks before LeBron & Co. would become superheroes by winning the Cavs’ first NBA championship, the Cleveland Monsters won the AHL’s Calder Cup, marking the first time a Cleveland team had hoisted its league’s championship trophy since 1964.
What You'll See
Besides championship-caliber hockey in a major-league arena, the Monsters are known for their creative and energetic promotional nights, which include a bring-your-dog night called “Pucks & Paws,” the welcoming and inclusive Pride Night, and the always-popular "1-2-3 Fridays!" where fans get $1 sodas, $2 hotdogs and $3 draft beer specials. Lively entertainment reigns when play stops. Look for “Sully,” the club’s selfie-magnet mascot, and other in-arena games and performances.
What Else to Do
Since they play at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse, Monsters games are no different than Cavs games when it comes to local, chef-driven food options. Taste what it's like to live in Cleveland with a burger or Polish Boy at Iron Chef Michael Symon's Burger Joint, gourmet sandwich selections at Karen Small’s P St. Market Café and inspired comfort food at Tiwanna Scott-Williams’ Pearl’s Kitchen, among other tantalizing options.
Where to Stay
Whether you’re headed to RocketMortgage FieldHouse to watch the Monsters bang the boards, or Progressive Field for some of the most fun you can have at a baseball game, you might not want to drive home after a night of fun. Luckily, these hotels are ready for you, each within a half-mile of the Gateway District.