One of the highlights for baseball fans every year is Major League Baseball's annual All-Star Game, and this year's game will take place at Chase Field in Phoenix, AZ on Tuesday, July 12. For those fans living in the area or planning a trip to see the game, this season's All-Star Game and its host city have a lot to offer fans of all ages, both inside and around the ballpark.
Around Chase Field
According to Weather.com, the city of Phoenix averages 107° during the week in which the All-Star Game is scheduled. That means most fans, unless you like being slow-cooked, will be looking for a reprieve indoors with a cold drink and maybe something to eat. If you have never been to the capital city of Arizona, here are some places to check out during your trip:
Pizzeria Bianco
Address: 623 E. Adams St. (0.35 miles from Chase Field)
Web site: http://www.pizzeriabianco.com/
One of the most celebrated pizza restaurants in the country, Pizzeria Bianco has received national acclaim from multiple sources including GQ, Bon Appetit and, probably the most importantly, OPRAH! Located less than a mile from Chase Field, baseball fans will flock here, so make sure you get there first because this may be a rare chance to taste the best pizzas in the country. Oh yeah, and they have bar next door.
Arizona Science Center
Address: 600 East Washington Street (0.18 miles from Chase Field)
Web site: http://www.azscience.org
For fans looking to take a break from baseball for a few hours, the Arizona Science Center may give you just that chance. Featuring a planetarium and an IMAX theater, the center has plenty of exhibits and hands-on activities for kids and adults. With the All-Star Game in town, there will be All-Star sports demonstrations going on from July 9 through July 13.
Five Guys Burger and Fries
Address: 50 West Jefferson St. (0.40 miles from Chase Field)
Web site: http://www.fiveguys.com
Yes, Five Guys is a chain that you probably can find at a location near you, but seriously, have you ever had a cheeseburger from Five Guys? They are… amazing. I am usually looking for a reason to go and get a burger from Five Guys, so if you have never tried one before, use your trip to Phoenix as your chance.
Alice Cooperstown
Address: 101 East Jackson St. (0.35 miles from Chase Field)
Web site: http://www.alicecooperstown.com
Opened by Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee Alice Cooper and made famous on "Man v. Food," the restaurant features a hot dog on its menu that is perhaps the craziest version of the classic ballpark food. Named the "Big Unit," after legendary Arizona Diamondbacks pitcher Randy Johnson who shared the same nickname, the hot dog is 22 inches long and has toppings including chili, cheese, bacon, jalapeno, onions, relish and sauerkraut. Good luck.
At Chase Field
MLB All-Star Fan Fest
Ok, so this is not exactly AT Chase Field, but close enough. Right across the street, Major League Baseball has set up its annual MLB All-Star Fan Fest at the Phoenix Convention Center. For just the price of admission, visitors get access to every attraction there including video games, baseball clinics, and autograph sessions, among others. Definitely a must-see for any die-hard baseball fan.
Chase Field Pool
While you probably won't be able to take a swim, you definitely have to check out the pool in the right field stands. The only one like it in the Major Leagues, the pool is a luxury that few get to experience; and with the heat in Phoenix, they are definitely lucky.
Concessions
This blog is no stranger to great concession foods, and Chase Field has some great food options for everybody. In addition to classics like hot dogs and beer, Chase Field has things like crispy shrimp tacos, southwestern steak & cheese sandwiches and churros. Click here for more info on concessions »
On the field
Home Run Derby
Who doesn't love seeing home runs? The Home Run Derby provides some of the best entertainment of the whole weekend, so it is definitely a must-see.
Celebrity All-Star Softball Game
This game may not be the most well played, but it will be entertaining. Some of the participants in this year's game include Larry Fitzgerald of the Arizona Cardinals, singer Jordin Sparks and Nick Jonas of the Jonas Brothers.
The 2011 MLB All-Star Game
Everything that you do over the course of All-Star weekend is just a prelude to the game itself. The best players from every team across baseball will come together to play for bragging rights and to see which league gets home-field advantage in the World Series.
Have you ever been to Phoenix before? What other places should people check out during All-Star Weekend?