Have you ever wondered what it would be like to stand in the same place Babe Ruth stood as he knocked the baseball out of the park? Or what it feels like to stand in the middle of a famous sports stadium that has birthed so many legends?
For some sports fans traveling across the country and standing in those famous spots is a sort of rite of passage. For avid sports enthusiasts, it offers a special opportunity to connect with their favorite sports on a deeper level.
In this blog post, we’ll work our way through the ultimate sports fan road trip, highlighting 15 of the most famous arenas across the country. So fasten your seatbelts, pack your jerseys, and let's dive in!
1. Oracle Park, San Francisco, California
Our road trip starts in the heart of San Francisco where we visit Oracle Park, the picturesque home of the San Francisco Giants. Located right on the waterfront, this baseball stadium offers breathtaking views of the city and a memorable baseball experience.
Fun Fact: Oracle Park has a unique feature called the "Giant Glove," a 26-foot-tall replica of a baseball glove just behind the left-center field bleachers.
2. Staples Center, Los Angeles, California
Another California must-see is the Staples Center in Los Angeles. This multipurpose arena is home to the Los Angeles Lakers (NBA), Los Angeles Clippers (NBA), and Los Angeles Kings (NHL), making it a hub of basketball and hockey excitement.
Fun Fact: The Staples Center is one of the busiest arenas in the world, hosting over 250 events per year. These events include not only sports games but also concerts, award shows, and other entertainment events.
3. Dodger Stadium, Los Angeles, California
While in Los Angeles, we can't miss a visit to Dodger Stadium, one of the most picturesque and beloved baseball stadiums in the country. Cheering on the Los Angeles Dodgers in this iconic stadium is a hallmark experience for most sports fans.
Fun Fact: The organist at Dodger Stadium, Nancy Bea Hefley, has been playing the organ during games at Dodger Stadium since 1988.
4. AT&T Stadium, Arlington, Texas
Venturing to the Lone Star State next, we stop at AT&T Stadium, the colossal home of the Dallas Cowboys (NFL). With its modern design and state-of-the-art facilities, this venue offers an immersive football experience like no other.
Fun Fact: AT&T Stadium, also known as "Jerry World," has the world's largest column-free interior and the largest HD video screen. The massive screen stretches from one 20-yard line to the other, measuring 160 feet long.
5. Augusta National Golf Club, Augusta, Georgia
Our road trip takes a different turn as we visit Augusta National Golf Club, the revered host of the Masters Tournament, one of golf's most prestigious events. Strolling along the hallowed fairways and witnessing the sport's top talents in action is a dream come true for golf enthusiasts.
Fun Fact: The famous green jacket awarded to the winner of the Masters Tournament can’t be removed from the grounds of Augusta National. The jacket must remain at the club and is only worn by members and past champions during their visit.
6. Daytona International Speedway, Daytona Beach, Florida
Revving up the excitement, we head to Daytona Beach to explore the Daytona International Speedway. Known as the "World Center of Racing," this legendary track hosts the iconic Daytona 500 and offers thrilling NASCAR action.
Fun Fact: Drivers experience high speeds and intense G-forces as they navigate the challenging turns of the Daytona International Speedway.
7. Yankee Stadium, New York City, New York
In the heart of New York City we stop at Yankee Stadium, the legendary home of the New York Yankees. This iconic baseball stadium has witnessed countless historic moments and is a must-visit for any baseball fan.
Fun Fact: The old Yankee Stadium, before it was demolished in 2008, had a famous right-field bleacher section known as the "Bleacher Creatures." These dedicated fans were known for their organized chants and heckling of players on the opposing team.
8. Madison Square Garden, New York City, New York
Next in the Big Apple, we head to Madison Square Garden, the world's most famous arena. As the home of the New York Knicks (NBA) and New York Rangers (NHL), this legendary venue offers both basketball and hockey action.
Fun Fact: Madison Square Garden has been nicknamed "The World's Most Famous Arena" due to its long history of hosting major sporting events and concerts.
9. Fenway Park, Boston, Massachusetts
Next, we travel to Boston to visit Fenway Park, the oldest Major League Baseball stadium in use. Steeped in history, this iconic ballpark is home to the beloved Boston Red Sox and offers an unforgettable experience for baseball enthusiasts.
Fun Fact: Fenway Park is the oldest active Major League Baseball stadium in the United States. It has been home to the Boston Red Sox since it opened in 1912, making it a historic landmark in the world of baseball.
10. Gillette Stadium, Foxborough, Massachusetts
Our next stop takes us to Gillette Stadium, the fortress of the New England Patriots (NFL). This state-of-the-art venue has witnessed numerous Super Bowl triumphs and offers an unforgettable football experience.
Fun Fact: Gillette Stadium has its own weather station on-site, providing accurate and up-to-date weather information for both fans and the team.
11. Ohio Stadium, Columbus, Ohio
Our journey continues with Ohio Stadium, fondly known as "The Horseshoe." Home to the Ohio State Buckeyes football team, this iconic stadium exudes college football spirit and is a must-visit for fans of the sport.
Fun Fact: The stadium's horseshoe shape, giving it the nickname "The Horseshoe," was not part of the original design. It was added in 1922 when the stadium needed to expand its seating capacity.
12. Churchill Downs, Louisville, Kentucky
A slight detour takes us down to Louisville, Kentucky, where we visit Churchill Downs, the world-renowned racetrack that hosts the annual Kentucky Derby. Immerse yourself in fast-paced horse racing and witness the pageantry of the "Run for the Roses."
Fun Fact: The Kentucky Derby, held at Churchill Downs, is the longest-running sports event in the United States, with the first race taking place in 1875.
13. Soldier Field, Chicago, Illinois
Traveling north again, we find Soldier Field,, an iconic stadium that is home to the Chicago Bears (NFL). With its historic architecture and passionate fan base, this venue is a must-visit for football enthusiasts.
Fun Fact: Soldier Field hosted the first Special Olympics in 1968 and has continued to support Special Olympics events over the years.
14. United Center, Chicago, Illinois
While in Chicago we stop by the United Center, the home of the Chicago Bulls (NBA) and Chicago Blackhawks (NHL). Catching a basketball or hockey game in this arena, known for its passionate fans, is an absolute must.
Fun Fact: The scoreboard at the United Center is one of the largest in the NBA, measuring approximately 32 feet by 40 feet.
15. Lambeau Field, Green Bay, Wisconsin
Our final stop takes us to Wisconsin, where we make our way to Lambeau Field, the historic home of the Green Bay Packers. Known for its passionate "cheesehead" fans, this football mecca offers a unique atmosphere and a chance to witness the rich tradition of the Packers.
Fun Fact: Lambeau Field is the only NFL stadium that is completely owned by its fans. The Green Bay Packers are a community-owned team, and thousands of fans hold shares in the franchise.
Non-US Locations
If you’re looking for some other fun and iconic sports venues outside the U.S., you won’t be disappointed. For the international part of our journey, we’ll trade our car for an airplane and continue on.
1. Camp Nou, Barcelona, Spain
No sports fan travel itinerary would be complete without a visit to Camp Nou, the colossal home of FC Barcelona. With its vibrant atmosphere and passionate fans, a visit to this famous football mecca offers a glimpse into the magic of Spanish fùtbol.
Fun Fact: The stadium's official name, "Camp Nou," means "new field" in Catalan. It was given this name when it was inaugurated in 1957 to distinguish it from the old stadium, Camp de Les Corts.
2. Wembley Stadium, London, England
Our next stop takes us to London's Wembley Stadium, a temple of football. Known for hosting major international matches, including the FIFA World Cup finals, this stadium is an architectural marvel that has witnessed countless historic moments and mesmerizing performances.
Fun Fact: Wembley Stadium has hosted many major sporting events, including the FIFA World Cup final in 1966 when England won their first and only World Cup. It has also hosted multiple UEFA Champions League finals and the Olympic Games.
3. Maracanã Stadium, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Heading to South America, we arrive in Rio de Janeiro, home to the Maracanã Stadium. As the spiritual home of Brazilian football, this iconic venue has witnessed World Cup finals and legendary performances by football legends like Pelé and Zico.
Fun Fact: The stadium's official name is Estádio Jornalista Mário Filho, but it is commonly known as Maracanã Stadium due to its location in the Maracanã neighborhood of Rio de Janeiro.
4. Melbourne Cricket Ground, Melbourne, Australia
In Australia, we make our way to the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), a venue synonymous with cricket and Australian Rules Football. With a seating capacity of over 100,000, this colossal stadium hosts some of the biggest sporting events in the country.
Fun Fact: The stadium has a unique feature called "The Hill," which is an area of grassy slopes where fans can bring their own picnic blankets and enjoy a relaxed atmosphere during cricket matches. It provides a distinct viewing experience.
5. Estadio Azteca, Mexico City, Mexico
On our last international stop, we head to Mexico City to visit the Estadio Azteca, one of the world's most renowned football stadiums. With a rich history that includes two FIFA World Cup finals, this iconic venue embodies the passion and love for football in Mexico.
Fun Fact: The stadium is the home ground of Club América, one of the most successful football clubs in Mexico. Club América has won numerous league titles, and their passionate fan base contributes to the stadium's vibrant atmosphere.
And the Rest Is History
This sports fan road trip will take you across the United States and each destination showcases the passion and spirit of American sports culture. Travel to legendary stadiums, arenas, and venues that have become the backdrop to some iconic moments in sports history.
For sports fun closer to home, check out our events page to find an event near you.
