Road Trippin” - May 2007
As summer approaches, thoughts invariably turn to lazy days and leisure activities. This year, instead of getting burned at the beach, why not indulge your passion for sports? Whether you’re a family vacationer or the day-tripping type, there’s a summer sports activity for you. And if this little list doesn’t float your boat, check out http://www.roadtrips.com or http://www.sportstravel.com for more ideas. Hot dog, anyone?
1. REV YOUR ENGINES
Start your summer off in high gear with a trip to the legendary Indianapolis Motor Speedway on May 27 to witness the 91st running of “The Greatest Spectacle in Racing.” Join 300,000 of your closest friends and experience the thrill of Formula 1 racing at its absolute finest. It’s just minutes from downtown and the Indianapolis International Airport, so you can enjoy the city and make it to the track in time to catch every lap. For more information, including the lowdown on tickets and lodging, visit http://www.indy500.com.
2. HALL OF FAME A HOME RUN
Even if The Boys of Summer is not your favorite beach read, die-hard baseball fans should make the pilgrimage to Cooperstown, N.Y., to visit the National Baseball Hall of Fame at least once. If you haven’t been yet, go during Hall of Fame Induction weekend, July 27-30, to witness Cal Ripken Jr. and Tony Gywnn become part of baseball history. Then lose yourself for hours (or the whole day) in the Hall of Fame. When you find your way out, wander around town and check out the many specialty shops for gear and memorabilia. And don’t leave without quaffing a pint or two of Old Slugger at the Doubleday Café. For information, go to http://www.baseballhalloffame.org/hof_weekend.
3. SADDLE UP FOR SARATOGA
For those of you who like a fast pace of the equestrian kind, say good-bye to summer (and maybe some hard-earned cash) at the Saratoga Racetrack in Saratoga Springs, N.Y., on Travers day, August 27. The Travers Stakes, held each year at this historic, charming track, is a stunning coda to what’s always a thrilling racing season. Book hotel reservations now, and stay downtown so you can walk to the many bars and restaurants; a short cab ride gets you to the Saratoga Performing Arts Center to see live entertainment, or play 18 at the Saratoga Spa Golf course. Go to http://www.saratogaracetrack. com for race and lodging information.
JOHN DANIELOWICH is a freelance writer, sports enthusiast, father, and husband living in Framingham, Mass.
