Cincinnati Reds
Cincinnati, OH
Great American Ball Park
Closest Cities: Columbus, Indianapolis, Louisville
Closest Stadiums: Progressive Field (Cleveland Indians), 249 miles; Comerica Park
(Detroit Tigers), 263 miles; PNC Park (Pittsburgh Pirates), 288 miles; US Cellular Field
(Chicago White Sox), 293 miles
How to get to the ballpark?
Drive.
Or shuttle bus.
But the best way is to walk from a hotel.
What to do?
In my opinion, it all starts in Newport, Kentucky. They have cheap hotels, (both cost
and quality), things to do, and places to hang out. If one is aiming to keeps costs low,
and can handle a low star hotel (bearable, based on the number of Reds fans staying),
then staying at the Travelodge in Newport is the place to be. Walking distance from the
stadium (right over the Ohio River), next door from the Newport Aquarium, and right
down the street from bars and a theater, just in case you arrive early. That being said,
Cincinnati also has a lot to offer within their city limits.
The ballpark provides an excellent atmosphere as well that epitomizes Cincinnati. First,
one must absorb the classic city experience by visiting Skyline Chili, or a smaller non
chain establishment such as Blue Ash Chili, where the chili experience can start. At the
baseball game, the Skyline Chili dog must be experienced.
If the chili dog isn’t craved then Cincinnati has a Barbecue Pit for everyone’s liking.
Every series, Mr. Reds’ Smokehouse changes up the menu to offer something from
where the visiting team is located. Also, GABP offers a couple restaurants to enjoy the
ball game from within the facility, which would be a unique experience.
If you’re looking to spend the money saved by staying at the hotel, and the aquarium
and theater is not for you (you can do those things at other places); the Reds Hall of
Fame is an outstanding attraction. The Reds have a rich history and have had many
great teams over the years as well as players with names that all fans have heard of.
The Hall of Fame does cost a few bucks though, so you know they feel their history is
important.
One thing to notice in Cincinnati is the Roebling Suspension Bridge (pictured below).
The bridge was opened to pedestrians in 1866 and is 30 years older than the Brooklyn
Bridge, both designed by John A. Roebling. Both were the longest suspension bridges
at their completions, and now are both landmarks.
On a couple personal notes, Kentucky does not serve alcoholic beverages during
election day, which will cancel all pre-game drink specials (bars and restaurants in
Newport have pre-game specials) so beware of political holidays in Kentucky when
you visit. Also, you get what you pay for; this is a useful tip for hotels reserved by the
optimist.
About how much would this cost?
The atmosphere in Cincinnati towards baseball is on the rise again as the team and
rivalries start to grow towards the greatness this ball park has to offer. Tickets can be
found fairly cheaply, and if you’re looking to not spend a lot of money, Cincinnati can
be a great place to save some. With two people, for about $120 it would be easy to get
tickets, dinner, and hotel without worrying about parking or transit fees.
For more information, visit the full GABP Guide.
Chris Mehfoud is a ballpark traveler and blogger at the 30 Stadium tour.