Boston Red Sox

Boston Red Sox

Boston Red Sox

BALTIMORE, MD - SEPTEMBER 20: Starting pitcher Kevin Gausman #39 of the Baltimore Orioles works batter David Ortiz #34 of the Boston Red Sox in the first inning at Oriole Park at Camden Yards on September 20, 2016 in Baltimore, Maryland. (Photo by Patrick Smith/Getty Images)

  • OK, so the season is almost over. But as the Red Sox head to Camden Yards in Baltimore this weekend, it felt like a good time to discuss which of the Red Sox’ regular destinations are worth trekking to if you’ve ever considered the idea of making a road trip.

    Here in Boston, we’re spoiled. Fenway Park remains a baseball destination, but if you’ve been to the park throughout the course of your life, you inevitably take it for granted. Years ago, when the Sox played at the Chicago Cubs for the first time, I made my first trip to Wrigley Field. When I reached the pressbox and got my first look at the actual playing area, I distinctly remember thinking to myself, “Oh, this must be what it’s like for people when they walk up the ramps at Fenway for the first time.”

    For lots of reasons, there are still trips worth making to major league cities – and not just for baseball. Here are a few of my favorites:

  • Oriole Park at Camden Yards, Baltimore

    9 Apr 2000: A general view of Oriole Park during the game between the Detroit Tigers and the Baltimore Orioles at Camden Yards in Baltimore, Maryland. The Orioles defeated the Tigers 11-6.

    9 Apr 2000: A general view of Oriole Park during the game between the Detroit Tigers and the Baltimore Orioles at Camden Yards in Baltimore, Maryland. The Orioles defeated the Tigers 11-6.

    The ballpark played too small from the outset, but the changes the Orioles made this season have been too drastic and have created a left field that is downright canyonesque. Still, it’s one of the better, easier trips to make from Boston. Good stadium, great setup, places to eat and drink within walking distance – still the model for baseball revitalization. The entire Inner Harbor area – including hotels – is manageable on foot, and the Orioles organization is now on the upswing. If you’re looking for a good, quick weekend, this is still at or near the top of the list.

  • T-Mobile Park, Seattle

    SEATTLE - JUNE 25: A general view of Safeco Field, home of the Seattle Mariners, on June 25, 2003 in Seattle, Washington. (Photo by Otto Greule Jr/Getty Images)

    SEATTLE – JUNE 25: A general view of Safeco Field, home of the Seattle Mariners, on June 25, 2003 in Seattle, Washington. (Photo by Otto Greule Jr/Getty Images)

    Truth be told, this could be No. 1. The obvious problem is that it’s on the other side of the country. Still, if you have the time and the resources, it’s worth the journey. The ballpark is downright spectacular, retractable roof and all, and the concessions are some of the best (if not the best) in all of baseball. Fun, hip city with a comfortable climate, good food and all kinds of options. One of the more underrated cities in America.

  • Yankee Stadium, New York

    NEW YORK, NEW YORK - OCTOBER 08: Aaron Judge #99 of the New York Yankees takes the field prior to the start of Game Three of the American League Division Series against the Boston Red Sox at Yankee Stadium on October 08, 2018 in the Bronx borough of New York City. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)

    NEW YORK, NEW YORK – OCTOBER 08: Aaron Judge #99 of the New York Yankees takes the field prior to the start of Game Three of the American League Division Series against the Boston Red Sox at Yankee Stadium on October 08, 2018 in the Bronx borough of New York City. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)

    If you never made it to the original Yankee Stadium, shame on you – but don’t make the same mistake with the new place. Is right field a joke? Hell yes, but that’s part of the charm. And whether you love the Yankees or hate them, their history is indisputable and they are the singular, greatest franchise in baseball annals. You can get there easily by car, train or plane – and there are obviously a million things to do in Manhattan. Again, could easily be tops on the list.

  • Rogers Centre, Toronto

    TORONTO, ON - SEPTEMBER 04: Vladimir Guerrero Jr. #27 of the Toronto Blue Jays runs to the dugout prior to a MLB game against the Oakland Athletics at Rogers Centre on September 4, 2021 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. (Photo by Vaughn Ridley/Getty Images)

    TORONTO, ON – SEPTEMBER 04: Vladimir Guerrero Jr. #27 of the Toronto Blue Jays runs to the dugout prior to a MLB game against the Oakland Athletics at Rogers Centre on September 4, 2021 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. (Photo by Vaughn Ridley/Getty Images)

    I’ve never been one for domes, but this one has always felt a little different. First off, the roof opens, which makes a difference. Beyond that, the city is absolutely terrific and truly cosmopolitan, with a wide range of dining and entertainment options, including the Hockey Hall of Fame. Nice people, nice vibe and easy to get to. As far as the baseball goes, the Jays have some of the best young and dynamic talent in the game. Fun team to watch.

  • Kauffman Stadium, Kansas City

    KANSAS CITY, MO - APRIL 10: A general view from behind right field displaying the fountains during opening day festivities at renovated Kauffman Stadium prior to the New York Yankees against the Kansas City Royals on April 10, 2009 in Kansas City, Missouri. (Photo by G. Newman Lowrance/Getty Images)

    KANSAS CITY, MO – APRIL 10: A general view from behind right field displaying the fountains during opening day festivities at renovated Kauffman Stadium prior to the New York Yankees against the Kansas City Royals on April 10, 2009 in Kansas City, Missouri. (Photo by G. Newman Lowrance/Getty Images)

    Surprised? Don’t be. The only real downside is the trip, which is longer than you think. But the stadium is still terrific and Kansas City is home to Country Club Plaza, which is a little like the Back Bay, or Copley Square, or maybe Chestnut Hill. But you get the idea. If you’re into the baseball history, the Negro Leagues Museum is an obvious draw. And the food there is terrific – from barbecue to the filet. You’ll have a better trip than you expected. Oh, and Arrowhead Stadium – home to the Chiefs – is right next door.

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