Sport is one of America's great loves. From local communities to some of the biggest stadiums in the world, it's almost an American institution to grab a beer, find a seat and take in the spectacle of sport.
It doesn't matter whether it's American football, basketball, baseball, ice hockey or anything else – the stadium atmosphere is hard to beat and even more impressive to look at. Many of these great venues are found along Route 66, and are landmarks that draw people from around the world (even when there is no game on!).
Here is a selection of stadiums that you need to see when you travel along the great highway of Route 66.
Dodger Stadium (Los Angeles)
Ah baseball, where you can smell the hot dogs and freshly cut grass from a mile away. On the west coast of the US, there is just one baseball stadium that you need to check out – Dodgers Stadium.
Home of the Los Angeles Dodgers since 1962, Dodgers Stadium is the third-oldest Major League Baseball (MLB) venue and the oldest along Route 66. If you fancy watching a match, the MLB season runs between April and October – with each team playing a massive 81 games at home. This gives you plenty of opportunity to don a replica shirt and foam finger, grab a hot dog and watch one of the best ball-on-bat sports in the world.
United Center (Chicago)
The end of Route 66 is usually the Windy City – Chicago. Yes, sitting on the beautiful Lake Michigan, this urban hub absolutely loves their sport with the city's favourite son the one and only NBA legend Michael Jordan. While you can't watch the great man take to the court for the Chicago Bulls anymore, the legacy of his career is still renowned at the United Center.
Home of the Bulls since 1994, as well as the NHL's Blackhawks, the United Center is the place to be when the NBA is in town. The current crop of players look set to make the playoffs with hometown hero Dwayne Wade and Jimmy Butler looking to win the city its first NBA championship since Michael Jordan lifted the trophy in 1998.
Soldier Field (Chicago)
If there was one code that defined American sport it would be American Football. The unique gameplay, pads, helmets and two-second plays are all foreign to Australian audiences and we think that this is precisely what makes American Football so special.
Soldier Field was opened back in 1924 and has been the home of the Chicago Bears since 1971. Now, the second-oldest venue in the NFL, Soldier Field fits 61,500 passionate fans who brave all conditions during the season including snow! If you are lucky enough to catch a game, you'll be able to get a great view of the play and feel the hits almost as much as the players.
Before the game, attend the tailgate party where you can meet and engage with some of the fans. There'll be plenty food and beverages to go around and you'll be able to learn more about the finer details of American Football.
Sport is a little like Route 66. It's fast, fun and enjoyed by many. And when you travel with Route 66 Tours, you can discover more about American sport and how it has become enriched into the culture of this great country.
Feel free to get in contact with us today – we look forward to hearing from you!
