Rental Car
Pick Up Your Rental
Pick upWashington · Jun 1
Drop offMiami · Jul 8
Total miles12236 mi
Getting There · Step 1
Stay Tonight · Washington, DC
Hotel
Washington Overnight
Check-inMon, Jun 1
Check-outTue, Jun 2
First pitch6:45 PM ET
Book near downtown or the ballpark so your first-game arrival stays simple.
DAY 1
Monday, June 1
First pitch at 6:45 PM ET — Washington Nationals vs. Miami Marlins at Nationals Park tonight — Caribbean Heritage Day Hat tonight.
Stop 01 of 22
Washington, DC · Mon Jun 1
Nationals Park
Washington Nationals · MLB
6:45 PM ET
vs. Miami Marlins
Must Eat at the Park
Ben's Chili Bowl Half-Smoke
A half-smoke sausage with Ben's chili, mustard, and onions. Ben's Chili Bowl has been a DC institution since 1958.
Local Beer
DC Brau Penn Quarter Porter
DC's first packaged craft brewery since Prohibition. The porter is excellent.
DC Brau Brewing
Baseball Returns to Washington After 33 Years
Pilgrim Notes · Washington Baseball History
Stay Tonight · Washington, DC
Washington Overnight
Check-inMon, Jun 1
Check-outTue, Jun 2
First pitch tomorrow at 6:40 PM ET. Leave by 2:34 PM.
Tue Morning
When to Depart
Leave by2:34 PM
Drive to Philadelphia151 mi · 2.6h
Game time6:40 PM ET
Leave on time to allow for fuel, food, and parking.
Worth the Detour · +15 min
The Graffiti Warehouse
A massive legal graffiti mural wall in Baltimore's Station North arts district. Blocks of paint on brick that changes constantly. The city funded it. The art never stops.
Baltimore, MD · 15 min detourWashington → Philadelphia
151 mi · 2.6h · easy leg
DAY 2
Tuesday, June 2
The 2.6h drive from Washington to Philadelphia is straightforward — leave after breakfast and you're there. First pitch at 6:40 PM ET — Philadelphia Phillies vs. San Diego Padres at Citizens Bank Park tonight. The Graffiti Warehouse is worth 15 minutes off the highway.
Stop 02 of 22
Philadelphia, PA · Tue Jun 2
Citizens Bank Park
Philadelphia Phillies · MLB
6:40 PM ET
vs. San Diego Padres
Must Eat at the Park
Tony Luke's Cheesesteak
The definitive Philly cheesesteak at the ballpark. Chopped ribeye, American or Whiz, on a seeded Amoroso roll.
Local Beer
Yards Brawler
Yards, the iconic Philadelphia craft brewery. Brawler is a pugilist-style mild ale.
Yards Brewing
Broad Street Bullies and the Best Fans in Sports (Maybe)
Pilgrim Notes · Philadelphia Baseball History
Stay Tonight · Philadelphia, PA
Philadelphia Overnight
Check-inTue, Jun 2
Check-outWed, Jun 3
First pitch tomorrow at 7:05 PM ET. Leave by 3:37 PM.
Wed Morning
When to Depart
Leave by3:37 PM
Drive to New York114 mi · 2h
Game time7:05 PM ET
Leave on time to allow for fuel, food, and parking.
Breakfast Stop · Philadelphia, PA
Before You Hit the Road
Down Home Diner
Reading Terminal Market since 1987. Jack McDavid's Southern-inspired diner inside the greatest indoor market in America. Scrapple, eggs, grits — the Philadelphia breakfast you're supposed to eat.
Scrapple + eggs + grits
Open 7 AM Mon–Sat
Worth the Detour · +15 min
World's Largest Glacial Pothole
A coal miner set off explosives in 1884 and accidentally uncovered a 38-foot-deep Ice Age hole. It held 140,000 gallons of meltwater. You can look straight down into the Earth.
Archbald, PA · 15 min detourPhiladelphia → New York
114 mi · 2h · easy leg
DAY 3
Wednesday, June 3
A short 2h drive from Philadelphia sets up the day. First pitch at 7:05 PM ET — New York Yankees vs. Cleveland Guardians at Yankee Stadium tonight. World's Largest Glacial Pothole is worth 15 minutes off the highway.
Stop 03 of 22
New York, NY · Wed Jun 3
Yankee Stadium
New York Yankees · MLB
7:05 PM ET
vs. Cleveland Guardians
Must Eat at the Park
Nathan's Famous Hot Dog
Nathan's Famous from Coney Island. The original New York hot dog at the original New York stadium.
Local Beer
Bronx Brewery Pale Ale
The South Bronx craft brewery. Official craft partner of Yankee Stadium.
Bronx Brewery
The House That Ruth Built — and Then Abandoned
Pilgrim Notes · New York Baseball History
Stay Tonight · New York, NY
New York Overnight
Check-inWed, Jun 3
Check-outThu, Jun 4
First pitch tomorrow at 1:35 PM ET. Leave by 8:12 AM.
Thu Morning
When to Depart
Leave by8:12 AM
Drive to Boston225 mi · 3.9h
Game time1:35 PM ET
Leave on time to allow for fuel, food, and parking.
Breakfast Stop · New York, NY
Before You Hit the Road
Barney Greengrass
The Sturgeon King, Upper West Side, since 1908. Possibly the best smoked fish in America. Eggs scrambled with Nova and onions is the only reasonable order. Perfect before a Yankees or Mets day game.
Scrambled eggs with Nova + coffee
Open 8:30 AM Tue–Sun
Worth the Detour · +15 min
Cornelia Molasses Explosion Memorial
On January 15, 1919, a 2.3 million-gallon molasses tank burst in Boston's North End, flooding streets at 35 mph. Twenty-one people died. A small plaque marks the site. Locals say you can still smell it on a hot summer day.
Boston, MA · 15 min detourNew York → Boston
225 mi · 3.9h · easy leg
DAY 4
Thursday, June 4
The 3.9h drive from New York to Boston is straightforward — leave after breakfast and you're there. First pitch at 1:35 PM ET — Boston Red Sox vs. Baltimore Orioles at Fenway Park today. Cornelia Molasses Explosion Memorial is worth 15 minutes off the highway.
Stop 04 of 22
Boston, MA · Thu Jun 4
Fenway Park
Boston Red Sox · MLB
1:35 PM ET
vs. Baltimore Orioles
Must Eat at the Park
Fenway Frank
The Fenway Frank has been a staple since the 1900s. A boiled-then-grilled Kayem hot dog in a New England-style bun, served with mustard and relish.
Local Beer
Sam Adams Boston Lager
The hometown craft brewery. Sam Adams Pavilion on the right field roof deck is the premium destination.
Boston Beer Company
The Green Monster and the Curse That Was Never Real
Pilgrim Notes · Boston Baseball History
Stay Tonight · Boston, MA
Boston Overnight
Check-inThu, Jun 4
Check-outFri, Jun 5
First pitch tomorrow at 4:10 PM ET. Leave by Previous evening — overnight drive recommended.
Sat Morning
When to Depart
Leave byPrevious evening — overnight drive recommended
Drive to Cumberland1165 mi · 20.1h
Game time4:10 PM ET
Long drive — consider stopping overnight in Boston overnight.
Breakfast Stop · Boston, MA
Before You Hit the Road
Flour Bakery and Cafe
Joanne Chang changed Boston breakfast. The South End original is the pilgrimage. Sticky buns that GQ called the best pastry in America. Egg sandwich on house bread is the move.
Sticky bun + egg sandwich on house bread
Open 7 AM Mon–Fri, 8 AM weekends
Worth the Detour · +5 min
The Giant Peachoid Water Tower
A million-gallon water tower shaped like a giant peach on the South Carolina border along I-85. Featured in House of Cards. Debated endlessly for resembling something other than a peach.
Gaffney, SC · 5 min detourBoston → Cumberland
1165 mi · 20.1h · long haul
DAY 6
Saturday, June 6
It's a 20.1h haul from Boston — plan to break this into two days or drive the night before. First pitch at 4:10 PM ET — Atlanta Braves vs. Pittsburgh Pirates at Truist Park today — Braves Country 5K + Game Ticket today. The Giant Peachoid Water Tower is worth 5 minutes off the highway.
Stop 05 of 22
Cumberland, GA · Sat Jun 6
Truist Park
Atlanta Braves · MLB
4:10 PM ET
vs. Pittsburgh Pirates
Must Eat at the Park
Georgia Chop Burger
Ground beef from Georgia farms, local cheese, house-made pickles on a brioche bun. Genuine farm-to-table ballpark burger.
Local Beer
SweetWater 420 EPA
Atlanta's flagship craft brewery. The 420 EPA is the most recognized Georgia craft beer.
SweetWater Brewing Co.
Stay Tonight · Cumberland, GA
Cumberland Overnight
Check-inSat, Jun 6
Check-outSun, Jun 7
First pitch tomorrow at 6:35 PM ET. Leave by Previous evening — overnight drive recommended.
Mon Morning
When to Depart
Leave byPrevious evening — overnight drive recommended
Drive to Baltimore718 mi · 12.4h
Game time6:35 PM ET
Long drive — consider stopping overnight in Cumberland overnight.
Breakfast Stop · Cumberland, GA
Before You Hit the Road
The Silver Skillet
Atlanta institution open since 1956 on 14th Street NW. The most authentic Southern breakfast left in Atlanta. Real grits, biscuits made from scratch, country ham. Not changing for anyone.
Country ham + red-eye gravy + biscuit + grits
Open 6 AM–2 PM Mon–Fri, 7 AM–2 PM Sat
Worth the Detour · +5 min
The Giant Peachoid Water Tower
A million-gallon water tower shaped like a giant peach on the South Carolina border along I-85. Featured in House of Cards. Debated endlessly for resembling something other than a peach.
Gaffney, SC · 5 min detourCumberland → Baltimore
718 mi · 12.4h · long haul
DAY 8
Monday, June 8
It's a 12.4h haul from Cumberland — plan to break this into two days or drive the night before. First pitch at 6:35 PM ET — Baltimore Orioles vs. Seattle Mariners at Oriole Park at Camden Yards tonight. The Giant Peachoid Water Tower is worth 5 minutes off the highway.
Stop 06 of 22
Baltimore, MD · Mon Jun 8
Oriole Park at Camden Yards
Baltimore Orioles · MLB
6:35 PM ET
vs. Seattle Mariners
Must Eat at the Park
Boog's BBQ Pit Beef Sandwich
Boog Powell — former Orioles MVP — has operated his BBQ stand at Camden Yards since 1992. The pit beef sandwich is Baltimore.
Local Beer
Dempsey's Brew Pub
Full-service brew pub on the right field lower concourse that brews its own beers on site.
Dempsey's Brewing
Camden Yards Changed Everything
Pilgrim Notes · Baltimore Baseball History
Stay Tonight · Baltimore, MD
Baltimore Overnight
Check-inMon, Jun 8
Check-outTue, Jun 9
First pitch tomorrow at 7:10 PM ET. Leave by 1:48 PM.
Tue Morning
When to Depart
Leave by1:48 PM
Drive to New York224 mi · 3.9h
Game time7:10 PM ET
Leave on time to allow for fuel, food, and parking.
Breakfast Stop · Baltimore, MD
Before You Hit the Road
Attmans Delicatessen
Corned Beef Row, East Baltimore, since 1915. The last great Jewish deli on what was once Baltimore's deli corridor. Corned beef sandwich before an Orioles game is a rite of passage.
Corned beef on rye + pickle + coffee
Open 8 AM daily
Worth the Detour · +15 min
World's Largest Glacial Pothole
A coal miner set off explosives in 1884 and accidentally uncovered a 38-foot-deep Ice Age hole. It held 140,000 gallons of meltwater. You can look straight down into the Earth.
Archbald, PA · 15 min detourBaltimore → New York
224 mi · 3.9h · easy leg
DAY 9
Tuesday, June 9
The 3.9h drive from Baltimore to New York is straightforward — leave after breakfast and you're there. First pitch at 7:10 PM ET — New York Mets vs. St. Louis Cardinals at Citi Field tonight — Puerto Rican Heritage Night: Francisco Lindor Jersey tonight. World's Largest Glacial Pothole is worth 15 minutes off the highway.
Stop 07 of 22
New York, NY · Tue Jun 9
Citi Field
New York Mets · MLB
7:10 PM ET
vs. St. Louis Cardinals
Must Eat at the Park
Shake Shack ShackBurger
Danny Meyer's Shake Shack arrived at Citi Field and changed MLB concessions. The ShackBurger with crinkle-cut fries is the standard.
Local Beer
Sixpoint Crisp Lager
The Brooklyn craft brewery. Crisp is the easy-drinking lager — the correct everyday option.
Sixpoint Brewery
The House That Ruth Built — and Then Abandoned
Pilgrim Notes · New York Baseball History
Stay Tonight · New York, NY
New York Overnight
Check-inTue, Jun 9
Check-outWed, Jun 10
First pitch tomorrow at 6:40 PM ET. Leave by 10:11 AM.
Thu Morning
When to Depart
Leave by10:11 AM
Drive to Pittsburgh405 mi · 7h
Game time6:40 PM ET
Long drive — consider stopping overnight in Pittsburgh.
Breakfast Stop · New York, NY
Before You Hit the Road
Russ and Daughters
Houston Street since 1914. The essential New York appetizing shop. Smoked salmon on a bagel with cream cheese and capers is a religious experience. The fourth generation of the family still runs it.
Nova lox + hand-rolled bagel + cream cheese
Open 8 AM daily
Worth the Detour · +15 min
World's Largest Glacial Pothole
A coal miner set off explosives in 1884 and accidentally uncovered a 38-foot-deep Ice Age hole. It held 140,000 gallons of meltwater. You can look straight down into the Earth.
Archbald, PA · 15 min detourNew York → Pittsburgh
405 mi · 7h · regional run
DAY 11
Thursday, June 11
It's a 7h haul from New York — plan to break this into two days or drive the night before. First pitch at 6:40 PM ET — Pittsburgh Pirates vs. Los Angeles Dodgers at PNC Park tonight — Pride Night: Zambelli Fireworks Night #3 tonight. World's Largest Glacial Pothole is worth 15 minutes off the highway.
Stop 08 of 22
Pittsburgh, PA · Thu Jun 11
PNC Park
Pittsburgh Pirates · MLB
6:40 PM ET
vs. Los Angeles Dodgers
Must Eat at the Park
Primanti Brothers Sandwich
Pittsburgh's most iconic food in its natural habitat. Meat and cheese on airy Italian bread loaded with tomatoes, coleslaw, and french fries inside the sandwich. Designed for Pittsburgh truckers in 1933.
Local Beer
Fat Head's Bullpen Tap Bar
Eight rotating taps positioned directly above the Pirates bullpen. The only bar in baseball where you can watch a reliever warm up while drinking a Head Hunter IPA. Arrive before first pitch for a seat at the rail.
Fat Head's Brewery · North Olmsted, OH
Maz, Clemente, and the Most Beautiful View in Baseball
Pilgrim Notes · Pittsburgh Baseball History
Stay Tonight · Pittsburgh, PA
Pittsburgh Overnight
Check-inThu, Jun 11
Check-outFri, Jun 12
First pitch tomorrow at 7:10 PM ET. Leave by 1:15 PM.
Fri Morning
When to Depart
Leave by1:15 PM
Drive to Cleveland256 mi · 4.4h
Game time7:10 PM ET
Leave on time to allow for fuel, food, and parking.
Breakfast Stop · Pittsburgh, PA
Before You Hit the Road
Pamela's Diner
Multiple locations. Obama ordered here on the campaign trail. The hotcakes are thin, buttery, perfect.
Crepe-style hotcakes
Worth the Detour · +10 min
Zanesville Y-Bridge Ohio
The only Y-shaped bridge in the world. Cross it from any side, end up where you started.
Zanesville, OH · 10 min detourPittsburgh → Cleveland
256 mi · 4.4h · easy leg
DAY 12
Friday, June 12
Pittsburgh to Cleveland is 4.4h — a solid drive, so leave early and plan a stop along the way. First pitch at 7:10 PM ET — Cleveland Guardians vs. Detroit Tigers at Progressive Field tonight — Free T-Shirt tonight. Zanesville Y-Bridge Ohio is worth 10 minutes off the highway.
Stop 09 of 22
Cleveland, OH · Fri Jun 12
Progressive Field
Cleveland Guardians · MLB
7:10 PM ET
vs. Detroit Tigers
Must Eat at the Park
Polish Boy Sausage
A kielbasa in a bun topped with french fries, coleslaw, and hot sauce. A Cleveland original found nowhere else.
Local Beer
Great Lakes Dortmunder Gold
The Cleveland craft institution. Dortmunder Gold has won more awards than any Ohio beer.
Great Lakes Brewing
The Longest Championship Drought and One Perfect Game
Pilgrim Notes · Cleveland Baseball History
Stay Tonight · Cleveland, OH
Cleveland Overnight
Check-inFri, Jun 12
Check-outSat, Jun 13
First pitch tomorrow at 7:15 PM ET. Leave by 12:16 PM.
Sat Morning
When to Depart
Leave by12:16 PM
Drive to Milwaukee318 mi · 5.5h
Game time7:15 PM ET
Leave on time to allow for fuel, food, and parking.
Breakfast Stop · Cleveland, OH
Before You Hit the Road
West Side Market
Ohio City since 1912. The greatest market hall in the Midwest. Over 100 vendors — pierogi, kielbasa, fresh bread. Grab breakfast from multiple stalls and eat in the main hall. A Cleveland essential.
Fresh pierogi + kielbasa + bread from multiple stalls
Open 7 AM Wed/Fri/Sat/Sun
Worth the Detour · +10 min
Tower of VW Bugs
Five colorfully painted 1960s Volkswagen Beetles stacked on top of each other in a pawn shop parking lot in Defiance. A mannequin climbs out of the fourth one. This is art.
Defiance, OH · 10 min detourCleveland → Milwaukee
318 mi · 5.5h · regional run
DAY 13
Saturday, June 13
Cleveland to Milwaukee is 5.5h — a solid drive, so leave early and plan a stop along the way. First pitch at 7:15 PM ET — Milwaukee Brewers vs. Philadelphia Phillies at American Family Field tonight — William Contreras Trading Card Bobblehead tonight. Tower of VW Bugs is worth 10 minutes off the highway.
Stop 10 of 22
Milwaukee, WI · Sat Jun 13
American Family Field
Milwaukee Brewers · MLB
7:15 PM ET
vs. Philadelphia Phillies
Must Eat at the Park
Wisconsin Brat (Klement's)
A Klement's bratwurst grilled over charcoal and served in a hoagie roll with stadium mustard, sauerkraut, and grilled onions.
Local Beer
Spotted Cow
The farmhouse ale sold exclusively in Wisconsin. The most state-exclusive craft beer in MLB.
New Glarus Brewing
The Brewers, Hank the Dog, and Robin Yount
Pilgrim Notes · Milwaukee Baseball History
Stay Tonight · Milwaukee, WI
Milwaukee Overnight
Check-inSat, Jun 13
Check-outSun, Jun 14
First pitch tomorrow at 8:05 PM ET. Leave by 4:47 PM.
Mon Morning
When to Depart
Leave by4:47 PM
Drive to Chicago104 mi · 1.8h
Game time8:05 PM ET
Leave on time to allow for fuel, food, and parking.
Breakfast Stop · Milwaukee, WI
Before You Hit the Road
Diner on the Square
Wauwatosa Square. Proper Midwestern diner breakfast done exactly right. German-influenced egg dishes reflect Milwaukee's heritage. 15 minutes from American Family Field — go before a Brewers day game.
German farmer's breakfast + coffee
Open 7 AM daily
Worth the Detour · +10 min
Gemini Giant Wilmington
A 28-foot spaceman on Route 66 since 1965. The drive-in still serves burgers.
Wilmington, IL · 10 min detourMilwaukee → Chicago
104 mi · 1.8h · easy leg
DAY 15
Monday, June 15
A short 1.8h drive from Milwaukee sets up the day. First pitch at 8:05 PM ET — Chicago Cubs vs. Colorado Rockies at Wrigley Field tonight. Gemini Giant Wilmington is worth 10 minutes off the highway.
Stop 11 of 22
Chicago, IL · Mon Jun 15
Wrigley Field
Chicago Cubs · MLB
8:05 PM ET
vs. Colorado Rockies
Must Eat at the Park
Chicago-Style Hot Dog
A Vienna beef hot dog on a poppy seed bun, dragged through the garden: yellow mustard, bright green relish, onions, tomato wedges, a pickle spear, sport peppers, and celery salt. No ketchup. Ever.
Local Beer
Old Style Lager
Served at Wrigley since 1950. The single most identified brand with Cubs baseball. The bleachers run on Old Style.
Pabst Brewing
The Friendly Confines and the Longest Drought in Sports
Pilgrim Notes · Chicago Baseball History
Stay Tonight · Chicago, IL
Chicago Overnight
Check-inMon, Jun 15
Check-outTue, Jun 16
First pitch tomorrow at 7:10 PM ET. Leave by 12:14 PM.
Tue Morning
When to Depart
Leave by12:14 PM
Drive to Cincinnati315 mi · 5.4h
Game time7:10 PM ET
Leave on time to allow for fuel, food, and parking.
Breakfast Stop · Chicago, IL
Before You Hit the Road
Ann Sather
Boystown since 1945. The cinnamon rolls are mythological — the size of your head, fresh every morning. Swedish-American diner that has defined Wrigleyville breakfast culture for 80 years.
Giant cinnamon roll + eggs
Open 7 AM daily
Lunch Stop · I-65 S to IN-43, Chauncey Hill, W Lafayette
Midway Fuel-Up
Triple XXX Family Restaurant
West Lafayette, IN since 1929. Diner on the Purdue University strip open for nearly 100 years. The Duane Purvis All-American burger (peanut butter on a burger) is the reason people stop here. Sounds wrong. Is right.
Duane Purvis All-American burger
Open 7 AM–10 PM daily
Worth the Detour · +10 min
Tower of VW Bugs
Five colorfully painted 1960s Volkswagen Beetles stacked on top of each other in a pawn shop parking lot in Defiance. A mannequin climbs out of the fourth one. This is art.
Defiance, OH · 10 min detourChicago → Cincinnati
315 mi · 5.4h · regional run
DAY 16
Tuesday, June 16
Chicago to Cincinnati is 5.4h — a solid drive, so leave early and plan a stop along the way. First pitch at 7:10 PM ET — Cincinnati Reds vs. New York Mets at Great American Ball Park tonight. Tower of VW Bugs is worth 10 minutes off the highway.
Stop 12 of 22
Cincinnati, OH · Tue Jun 16
Great American Ball Park
Cincinnati Reds · MLB
7:10 PM ET
vs. New York Mets
Must Eat at the Park
Cincinnati Chili Dog (Skyline)
Cincinnati chili served over a hot dog (the Cheese Coney). Skyline Chili has operated in Cincinnati since 1949.
Local Beer
MadTree Axis IPA
Cincinnati's most celebrated craft brewery. Axis IPA is their flagship.
MadTree Brewing
The Big Red Machine
Pilgrim Notes · Cincinnati Baseball History
Stay Tonight · Cincinnati, OH
Cincinnati Overnight
Check-inTue, Jun 16
Check-outWed, Jun 17
First pitch tomorrow at 2:35 PM ET. Leave by Previous evening — overnight drive recommended.
Thu Morning
When to Depart
Leave byPrevious evening — overnight drive recommended
Drive to Arlington1035 mi · 17.9h
Game time2:35 PM ET
Long drive — consider stopping overnight in Cincinnati overnight.
Breakfast Stop · Cincinnati, OH
Before You Hit the Road
Price Hill Chili
Price Hill neighborhood. Cincinnati chili for breakfast is the move — a 3-way at 8 AM has no business working and yet it does. Open early for the pre-work crowd.
3-Way chili + coffee
Open 7 AM Mon–Sat
Worth the Detour · +10 min
Hartman Rock Garden Springfield
50 hand-built miniature American monuments in a Springfield machinist's backyard.
Springfield, OH · 10 min detourCincinnati → Arlington
1035 mi · 17.9h · long haul
DAY 18
Thursday, June 18
It's a 17.9h haul from Cincinnati — plan to break this into two days or drive the night before. First pitch at 2:35 PM ET — Texas Rangers vs. Minnesota Twins at Globe Life Field today — Ian Kinsler '2008 Sleeveless' Jersey Replica today. Hartman Rock Garden Springfield is worth 10 minutes off the highway.
Stop 13 of 22
Arlington, TX · Thu Jun 18
Globe Life Field
Texas Rangers · MLB
2:35 PM ET
vs. Minnesota Twins
Must Eat at the Park
Lockhart Smokehouse Brisket
Authentic Central Texas BBQ style brisket. Properly smoked, not steam-table. The jalapeño sausage is exceptional.
Local Beer
Shiner Bock
Czech-Texan amber lager brewed in Shiner, Texas since 1909. Cold, amber, distinctly Texan.
Spoetzl Brewery
Texas Baseball and the Ballpark in Arlington
Pilgrim Notes · Arlington Baseball History
Stay Tonight · Arlington, TX
Arlington Overnight
Check-inThu, Jun 18
Check-outFri, Jun 19
First pitch tomorrow at 8:10 PM ET. Leave by 1:41 PM.
Fri Morning
When to Depart
Leave by1:41 PM
Drive to Houston289 mi · 5h
Game time8:10 PM ET
Leave on time to allow for fuel, food, and parking.
Breakfast Stop · Arlington, TX
Before You Hit the Road
Normas Cafe Dallas
Dallas institution since 1956. Multiple DFW locations. Chicken-fried steak at breakfast is a Texas sacrament. Scratch biscuits, real gravy, pies under glass domes. Pre-Rangers game fuel done right.
Chicken-fried steak + eggs + scratch biscuit
Open 6 AM daily
Worth the Detour · +25 min
Waco Mammoth National Monument
24 mammoths who died together in a Texas flash flood 67,000 years ago. Still in place.
Waco, TX · 25 min detourArlington → Houston
289 mi · 5h · regional run
DAY 19
Friday, June 19
Arlington to Houston is 5h — a solid drive, so leave early and plan a stop along the way. First pitch at 8:10 PM ET — Houston Astros vs. Cleveland Guardians at Minute Maid Park tonight — Jose Altuve Soccer Jersey tonight. Waco Mammoth National Monument is worth 25 minutes off the highway.
Stop 14 of 22
Houston, TX · Fri Jun 19
Minute Maid Park
Houston Astros · MLB
8:10 PM ET
vs. Cleveland Guardians
Must Eat at the Park
Texas Smoke Brisket Sandwich
Central Texas-style brisket sliced thick and served on white bread with pickles, onions, and sauce on the side.
Local Beer
Karbach Love Street
Houston's most popular craft blonde ale. Easy drinking for a retractable roof afternoon.
Karbach Brewing
The Astros and the Comeback City
Pilgrim Notes · Houston Baseball History
Stay Tonight · Houston, TX
Houston Overnight
Check-inFri, Jun 19
Check-outSat, Jun 20
First pitch tomorrow at 3:10 PM ET. Leave by Previous evening — overnight drive recommended.
Sun Morning
When to Depart
Leave byPrevious evening — overnight drive recommended
Drive to Denver1100 mi · 19h
Game time3:10 PM ET
Long drive — consider stopping overnight in Houston overnight.
Breakfast Stop · Houston, TX
Before You Hit the Road
Breakfast Klub
Midtown Houston since 2001. The wings-and-waffle combination redefined Houston breakfast culture. Line goes around the block on weekends. Worth every minute. One of the great American breakfast institutions.
Wings and waffles + fresh-squeezed OJ
Open 7 AM–2 PM Mon–Fri, 8 AM weekends
Worth the Detour · +15 min
Terry Allen's Juarez Sculpture
Two bronze trees intertwined in a courtyard outside the Buddy Holly Center in Lubbock. The taller is a cottonwood. The shorter is a huisache. They represent the Texas borderlands. More moving than it sounds.
Lubbock, TX · 15 min detourHouston → Denver
1100 mi · 19h · long haul
DAY 21
Sunday, June 21
It's a 19h haul from Houston — plan to break this into two days or drive the night before. First pitch at 3:10 PM ET — Colorado Rockies vs. Pittsburgh Pirates at Coors Field today — Father's Day: Rockies City Connect Hawaiian Shirt today. Terry Allen's Juarez Sculpture is worth 15 minutes off the highway.
Stop 15 of 22
Denver, CO · Sun Jun 21
Coors Field
Colorado Rockies · MLB
3:10 PM ET
vs. Pittsburgh Pirates
Must Eat at the Park
Rocky Mountain Oysters
Deep-fried bull testicles. Yes, really. A Colorado tradition served with cocktail sauce. Try them.
Local Beer
Blue Moon Belgian White
Invented in the Sandlot Brewing Company in Coors Field's basement in 1995.
Blue Moon (Coors)
The Thin Air Problem and the Humidor Solution
Pilgrim Notes · Denver Baseball History
Stay Tonight · Denver, CO
Denver Overnight
Check-inSun, Jun 21
Check-outMon, Jun 22
First pitch tomorrow at 9:45 PM ET. Leave by Previous evening — overnight drive recommended.
Tue Morning
When to Depart
Leave byPrevious evening — overnight drive recommended
Drive to San Francisco1181 mi · 20.4h
Game time9:45 PM ET
Long drive — consider stopping overnight in Denver overnight.
Breakfast Stop · Denver, CO
Before You Hit the Road
Snooze AM Eatery
Born in Denver in 2006, now a regional icon. The pineapple upside-down pancake is genuinely one of the best things you will eat at breakfast anywhere. Bloody Marys and patio seating.
Pineapple upside-down pancakes + Bloody Mary
Open 6:30 AM–2:30 PM daily
Worth the Detour · +20 min
Sundial Bridge Redding
A Santiago Calatrava-designed pedestrian bridge that is also a working sundial — the largest in the world. Looks like it landed from another planet. Free to walk across. The Sacramento River runs below it.
Redding, CA · 20 min detourDenver → San Francisco
1181 mi · 20.4h · long haul
DAY 23
Tuesday, June 23
It's a 20.4h haul from Denver — plan to break this into two days or drive the night before. First pitch at 9:45 PM ET — San Francisco Giants vs. Athletics at Oracle Park tonight — Mexican Heritage Night / City Connect Tuesday: Cobija Blanket tonight. Sundial Bridge Redding is worth 20 minutes off the highway.
Stop 16 of 22
San Francisco, CA · Tue Jun 23
Oracle Park
San Francisco Giants · MLB
9:45 PM ET
vs. Athletics
Must Eat at the Park
Gilroy Garlic Fries
Thick-cut fries aggressively tossed with Gilroy garlic, olive oil, and parsley. The smell reaches the upper deck. A California baseball institution.
Local Beer
Anchor Steam Beer
Brewed in San Francisco since 1896. The prototypical American craft beer revival.
Anchor Brewing Co.
Stay Tonight · San Francisco, CA
San Francisco Overnight
Check-inTue, Jun 23
Check-outWed, Jun 24
First pitch tomorrow at 9:38 PM ET. Leave by 12:06 PM.
Fri Morning
When to Depart
Leave by12:06 PM
Drive to Anaheim466 mi · 8h
Game time9:38 PM ET
Long drive — consider stopping overnight in San Francisco overnight.
Breakfast Stop · San Francisco, CA
Before You Hit the Road
Tartine Bakery
Mission. Chad Robertson's country bread changed American baking. 4pm loaves, line forms by 3:30. Worth it.
Country Bread (afternoon pull)
Bread available from ~4pm daily
Worth the Detour · +25 min
Goldwell Open Air Museum
Belgian artists dragged massive sculptures into the Mojave Desert in 1984 and just left them there. A ghostly Last Supper. A pixelated Venus made of cinder blocks. Forty miles from Death Valley. Free, open 24 hours.
Beatty, NV · 25 min detourSan Francisco → Anaheim
466 mi · 8h · regional run
DAY 26
Friday, June 26
First pitch at 9:38 PM ET — Los Angeles Angels vs. Athletics at Angel Stadium tonight — Plaid Santa Hat tonight. Goldwell Open Air Museum is worth 25 minutes off the highway.
Stop 17 of 22
Anaheim, CA · Fri Jun 26
Angel Stadium
Los Angeles Angels · MLB
9:38 PM ET
vs. Athletics
Must Eat at the Park
Helmet Nachos
Nachos served in a full-size batting helmet with cheese, jalapeños, and pico. The helmet is yours to keep.
Local Beer
Golden Road Mango Cart
The mango wheat beer. Light, tropical, perfect for Orange County weather.
Golden Road Brewing
Stay Tonight · Anaheim, CA
Anaheim Overnight
Check-inFri, Jun 26
Check-outSat, Jun 27
First pitch tomorrow at 8:40 PM ET. Leave by 5:18 PM.
Sat Morning
When to Depart
Leave by5:18 PM
Drive to San Diego108 mi · 1.9h
Game time8:40 PM ET
Leave on time to allow for fuel, food, and parking.
Anaheim → San Diego
108 mi · 1.9h · easy leg
DAY 27
Saturday, June 27
A short 1.9h drive from Anaheim sets up the day. First pitch at 8:40 PM ET — San Diego Padres vs. Los Angeles Dodgers at Petco Park tonight. Don't leave without Donut Bacon Cheeseburger.
Stop 18 of 22
San Diego, CA · Sat Jun 27
Petco Park
San Diego Padres · MLB
8:40 PM ET
vs. Los Angeles Dodgers
Must Eat at the Park
Donut Bacon Cheeseburger
Beef patty, bacon, cheese between two glazed donuts — a national story when introduced. Randy Jones BBQ.
Local Beer
Stone Brewing IPA
Full tap program: IPA, Arrogant Bastard Ale, rotating seasonals. One of America's most influential craft breweries.
Stone Brewing
Stay Tonight · San Diego, CA
San Diego Overnight
Check-inSat, Jun 27
Check-outSun, Jun 28
First pitch tomorrow at 9:40 PM ET. Leave by 1:43 PM.
Mon Morning
When to Depart
Leave by1:43 PM
Drive to Phoenix374 mi · 6.5h
Game time9:40 PM ET
Long drive — consider stopping overnight in Phoenix.
Breakfast Stop · San Diego, CA
Before You Hit the Road
The Broken Yolk Cafe
Pacific Beach institution since 1979. Enormous portions. Real San Diego breakfast culture: casual, beachy, enormous coffee. The 12-egg omelette challenge is on the wall.
3-egg omelette + hash browns
Open 6 AM daily
Worth the Detour · +30 min
Taliesin West
Frank Lloyd Wright's desert studio, school, and home — a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Scottsdale, AZ · 30 min detourSan Diego → Phoenix
374 mi · 6.5h · regional run
DAY 29
Monday, June 29
It's a 6.5h haul from San Diego — plan to break this into two days or drive the night before. First pitch at 9:40 PM ET — Arizona Diamondbacks vs. San Francisco Giants at Chase Field tonight. Taliesin West is worth 30 minutes off the highway.
Stop 19 of 22
Phoenix, AZ · Mon Jun 29
Chase Field
Arizona Diamondbacks · MLB
9:40 PM ET
vs. San Francisco Giants
Must Eat at the Park
Sonoran Hot Dog
A bacon-wrapped hot dog topped with pinto beans, onions, tomatoes, jalapeño sauce, mustard, and mayo on a bolillo roll.
Local Beer
Four Peaks Kilt Lifter
Tempe-based craft brewery. The Kilt Lifter Scottish-style ale is the Arizona craft standard.
Four Peaks Brewing
The 2001 World Series and the Greatest Game Ever Played
Pilgrim Notes · Phoenix Baseball History
Stay Tonight · Phoenix, AZ
Phoenix Overnight
Check-inMon, Jun 29
Check-outTue, Jun 30
First pitch tomorrow at 10:10 PM ET. Leave by 12:59 PM.
Thu Morning
When to Depart
Leave by12:59 PM
Drive to Los Angeles446 mi · 7.7h
Game time10:10 PM ET
Long drive — consider stopping overnight in Los Angeles.
Breakfast Stop · Phoenix, AZ
Before You Hit the Road
Matt's Big Breakfast
The definitive Phoenix breakfast. Tiny corner diner open since 2004. Cage-free eggs, house-ground sausage, thick-cut bacon. The Griddle Cake plate is legendary. Line forms before it opens.
Griddle cakes + house sausage
Open 6:30 AM–2:30 PM daily
Worth the Detour · +25 min
Montezuma Castle National Monument
The best-preserved cliff dwelling in North America, 90 feet above a creek.
Camp Verde, AZ · 25 min detourPhoenix → Los Angeles
446 mi · 7.7h · regional run
DAY 32
Thursday, July 2
First pitch at 10:10 PM ET — Los Angeles Dodgers vs. San Diego Padres at Dodger Stadium tonight. Montezuma Castle National Monument is worth 25 minutes off the highway.
Stop 20 of 22
Los Angeles, CA · Thu Jul 2
Dodger Stadium
Los Angeles Dodgers · MLB
10:10 PM ET
vs. San Diego Padres
Must Eat at the Park
Dodger Dog
A 10-inch steamed pork frankfurter in a steamed bun. The highest-volume hot dog in professional sports — over 10 million sold per season.
Local Beer
Golden Road Mango Cart
The mango wheat beer that became LA's most recognizable craft product. Light, tropical.
Golden Road Brewing
Stay Tonight · Los Angeles, CA
Los Angeles Overnight
Check-inThu, Jul 2
Check-outFri, Jul 3
First pitch tomorrow at 3:00 PM ET. Leave by Previous evening — overnight drive recommended.
Sun Morning
When to Depart
Leave byPrevious evening — overnight drive recommended
Drive to Kansas City1698 mi · 29.3h
Game time3:00 PM ET
Long drive — consider stopping overnight in Los Angeles overnight.
Breakfast Stop · Los Angeles, CA
Before You Hit the Road
Du-par's Restaurant
Open since 1938 at the Farmers Market on Fairfax. Pancakes made from scratch that have been ordered every morning for 85 years. The butter and maple syrup situation is serious. A Hollywood institution.
Buttermilk pancakes + coffee
Open 6 AM daily
Worth the Detour · +10 min
World's Largest Thermometer — Baker
A 134-foot thermometer built to honor the 134°F record set in nearby Death Valley. Visible from I-15. The Alien Fresh Jerky shop next door is its own category of American roadside experience.
Baker, CA · 10 min detourLos Angeles → Kansas City
1698 mi · 29.3h · long haul
DAY 35
Sunday, July 5
First pitch at 3:00 PM ET — Kansas City Royals vs. Philadelphia Phillies at Kauffman Stadium today. World's Largest Thermometer — Baker is worth 10 minutes off the highway.
Stop 21 of 22
Kansas City, MO · Sun Jul 5
Kauffman Stadium
Kansas City Royals · MLB
3:00 PM ET
vs. Philadelphia Phillies
Must Eat at the Park
KC Burnt Ends
Kansas City-style burnt ends — the crispy, caramelized points of a smoked brisket. The defining food of KC BBQ.
Local Beer
Boulevard Unfiltered Wheat
Kansas City's defining craft brewery. The Unfiltered Wheat is a KC staple at the K.
Boulevard Brewing
George Brett and the Pine Tar Game
Pilgrim Notes · Kansas City Baseball History
Stay Tonight · Kansas City, MO
Kansas City Overnight
Check-inSun, Jul 5
Check-outMon, Jul 6
First pitch tomorrow at 6:40 PM ET. Leave by Previous evening — overnight drive recommended.
Wed Morning
When to Depart
Leave byPrevious evening — overnight drive recommended
Drive to Miami1544 mi · 26.6h
Game time6:40 PM ET
Long drive — consider stopping overnight in Kansas City overnight.
Breakfast Stop · Kansas City, MO
Before You Hit the Road
Town Topic Hamburgers
Midnight diner on Broadway since 1937. Open 24 hours. The burger is the point but the breakfast menu has fueled Kansas City's night owls and early risers for 85 years. Order at the counter.
Eggs + hash + coffee
Open 24 hours
Worth the Detour · +5 min
The Giant Peachoid Water Tower
A million-gallon water tower shaped like a giant peach on the South Carolina border along I-85. Featured in House of Cards. Debated endlessly for resembling something other than a peach.
Gaffney, SC · 5 min detourKansas City → Miami
1544 mi · 26.6h · long haul
DAY 38
Wednesday, July 8
First pitch at 6:40 PM ET — Miami Marlins vs. Seattle Mariners at loanDepot park tonight. The Giant Peachoid Water Tower is worth 5 minutes off the highway.
Stop 22 of 22
Miami, FL · Wed Jul 8
loanDepot park
Miami Marlins · MLB
6:40 PM ET
vs. Seattle Mariners
Must Eat at the Park
Cubano Sandwich
A pressed Cuban sandwich with ham, roasted pork, Swiss, pickles, and mustard. Miami's signature food.
Local Beer
MIA Brewing Blonde Ale
Doral-based craft brewery. The Blonde Ale is the local choice in Miami's heat.
MIA Brewing
The Marlins and the Art of Winning Without Trying
Pilgrim Notes · Miami Baseball History
Shift 2 days to catch Crossover Jersey Collection: Drake Baldwin Hockey Jersey at Truist Park.
• Crossover Jersey Collection: Drake Baldwin Hockey Jersey at Truist Park
• Astros Pride Hand Fan at Daikin Park, Houston TX
• Pride Night Jersey + Pregame Party at Truist Park
• Puerto Rican Heritage Jersey at Wrigley Field
What to Budget
Estimates only — prices vary by availability
Tickets · 22 games (avg $46)$1,012
Hotels · 37 nights (avg $155)$5,735
Fuel · 12236 mi at $0.18/mi$2,202
Ballpark food & drinks$1,100
Total Estimate$10,049
* Estimates only. Prices vary.
How This Trip Was Planned
Our Algorithm
We evaluate many stop orders (up to seven parks: every permutation; larger trips: smart samples plus nearest-neighbor paths from home) and keep the version that preserves the most ballparks on your list with the least driving between games, inside an expanded or standard date ...