We’re just one day away from MLB Opening Day, and what a joyous time it is. With spring now underway and the hope of warm weather headed toward us, baseball fans across the country are getting ready to celebrate opening day at their favorite ballpark. Read on to see if your city made the list as one of the best places to tailgate MLB Opening Day.
San Francisco
What says the end of Spring Training and the beginning of warm weather and baseball season better than a day on the Bay? San Francisco’s Oracle Park (formerly AT&T Park) is one of the most unique stadiums in the MLB. Not only can you tailgate in the tailgate lot, The Yard at Mission Rock is the perfect place for pre-game drinks, too. The shipping container pop-up features a mini taproom of SF-based Anchor Steam Brewery, grub form the farm-to-plate Belcampo, and sweet treats from Crêperie Saint-Germain. On any given game day, there’s always a good crowd around here, but on MLB Opening Day, expect it to be electric.
Baltimore
A sea of orange covers Baltimore’s historic district as fans get ready to watch their Orioles take the field. Pickles Pub is the place to be on game day; their 27th annual block party is sure to get everyone hyped for the first game of the season. Get there early and enjoy free breakfast from 6-9am, pre-game with $3 Deep Eddy drinks, and get your adrenaline pumping with the iHeartRadio live broadcast. If you’d rather be indoors and Pickles is too packed, head to Slider’s Baltimore, conveniently located just 771 feet from home plate, for cheap drinks and plenty of people-watching.
Cleveland
The Indians have seen success in the last few years, and the fans’ excitement has played a big role in that. Rally Alley, located just outside Progressive Field (formerly known as The Jake), is where fans go to tailgate, play corn hole, and enjoy the official street festival of the Cleveland Indians. Down the street, Thirsty Parrot opens up on game days only, beckoning fans to its relaxed cantina atmosphere and umbrella-dotted, outdoor deck. There are plenty of other spots in the Gateway District, as well, that cater to the fans with pre- and post-game drinks and snacks.
Milwaukee
Tailgating is 100% allowed at this stadium, and the Brewers have designated tailgating parking spots and lots to make it even more accessible. Charcoal BBQ grills and coolers full of ice cold beers fill the lots at Miller Park, creating a tailgating atmosphere as close to an NFL one as you’ll find. You’ll see plenty of Brewers fans sitting in lawn chairs, cooking up some brats, and enjoying some delicious brew starting at 10am when the tailgate lots open. If you’d rather pre-game even earlier, head to Broken Bat Brewery for a craft brew at 8am when they open. To sweeten the pot, the brewery offers free shuttle rides directly to Miller Park, so you won’t even have to worry about how you’ll get there.
Boston
There’s nothing quite like a Red Sox game. Since 1912, the Sox have played at Fenway Park, the oldest stadium in the MLB. Along with a storied history, the park has some die hard fans who love their pre-game drinks and grub. Jersey Street (formerly known as Yawkey Way) is where you’ll find fans imbibing, buying loaded hot dogs from street vendors, and practicing their “Sweet Caroline” lyrics. Bars dot the street and the other streets surrounding the stadium, so you won’t have to go far to find a cold one. If you want the ultimate experience, head to Bleacher Bar and grab a pint as you enjoy the view from inside (yes, inside!) center field.
Chicago (Cubs)
If you’ve never been to a Chicago Cubs game, you’ve never lived. The Cubs play at Wrigley Field, located in aptly-named Wrigleyville, and the energy in the neighborhood is palpable. Bars and pubs open up early on game day and locals either flock to them in droves or eat and drink on the outdoor patios and balconies overlooking the field. The newly-created Gallagher Way features the Cubs team store, Budweiser Brickhouse Tavern, and a small grass field where local companies host games and giveaways. Stop in at Cubby Bear, Murphy’s Bleachers, or any bar on Clark Street for that matter.
Atlanta
Pre-gaming at the Braves’ home field, SunTrust Park, is even better than it used to be at Turner Field (arguably, of course). Head to the designated tailgate lot (Lot 6), whip out the grill, and soak up the sunshine that will hopefully peek its head out on opening day. Don’t miss The Battery Atlanta, an outdoor shopping, dining, and drinking space where Braves fans gather before, during and even after the game.
San Diego
Located in the Gaslamp Quarter, one of the city’s best neighborhoods for nightlife, Petco Park is a baseball lover’s dream. Along with Tailgate Park, a designated area for fans to bbq, throw back some beers, and chat, the bars surrounding the park are perfect for pre- or post-game drinks. Or, grab a beer at Mission Brewery, Bub’s at the Ballpark, or the Deck at Moonshine Flat. After the game, keep the night going at nearby Trailer Park After Dark and see why it’s one of San Diego’s can’t-miss bars.
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