Sports culture in the US is strong and rich in history, with dedicated fans spread across the nation. Here, the most popular sports are the ‘Big 4’ – football, baseball, hockey, and basketball, with huge arenas and stadiums selling out their seats year-round. The world of sports is only growing larger and larger in the US, too, especially as major leagues expand by adding new franchises to their already impressive collections of teams.
Additionally, the influx of online sports betting providers, made possible by approved legislation, means that now half the country has access to fully regulated wagering opportunities, along with virtual deals for new users that make the activity even more accessible. One thing’s for certain – with today’s technology and larger-than-life events, there’s no doubt that it’s a wonderful thing to be a sports fan in America.
US-based sports aficionados have built their own fan communities in the cities they live in, supporting local teams and players. However, even the most dedicated sports aficionado needs a vacation every now and again. That’s why in this article we outline some of the best spring and summer spots, catering to the biggest fans around.
Each of these destinations has exciting sports events which take place in these seasons, so there is sure to be a high-energy ambiance to greet you when you arrive. Don’t put off a fun sports-centered trip any longer, start planning your vacation today!
Daytona Beach, Florida
Florida is already a top holiday destination for many people living in the US, as the Sunshine State provides visitors with 8,000 miles of coastline and gorgeous white sandy beaches. Sports fans should head to Daytona, especially if they love watching racing.
This beachside city is the home of the Daytona International Speedway, one of the most important venues in the sport of NASCAR. Aside from having a tour of the racecourse, in August, fans can catch the Coke Zero Sugar 400 and cheer on their favorite driver under the bright Floridian sun.
Boston, Massachusetts
Boston may be popular for its freezing temps and a large amount of snowfall that is common in winter, but in the warmer months when the ice melts away, it is a gorgeous summer haven with plenty of parks and ballparks. Baseball fans will have the time of their lives here during the game season, especially because they can visit Fenway Park, the 110-year-old home venue of the Boston Red Sox.
The opportunity to see a live game here is a truly historic experience, as plenty of baseball legends such as Tim Wakefield, Rico Petrocelli, and Mo Vaughn have all stepped on the field over the years.
Aside from baseball, Boston is also home to 6-time Super Bowl champions the New England Patriots, and NHL’s Boston Bruins. Visitors can chow down on some Boston cream pie, baked beans or other local delicacies while walking the streets in search of the next major sports landmark.
New York City, New York
Who doesn’t want to spend a few days in the Big Apple? Well, in spring and summer when the weather isn’t freezing, it’s an even more enjoyable experience. Not to mention, since basketball season is in full swing during this time with the NBA Finals occurring annually around the beginning of June, it’s the perfect opportunity to catch a live game at the famous Madison Square Garden.
For those that prefer baseball, head to the Bronx for a tour of Yankee Stadium, one of the most iconic venues in the league. And when the NFL season kicks off with preseason games in August, tourists can check out games that feature the New York Giants or New York Jets at their corresponding stadiums.
When it comes to a place to stay, have a look at these suggestions which are great for first timers. The bottom line is that there will never be enough time to check off everything from a New York City bucket list, but every trip is another chance to try!
Louisville, Kentucky
The Kentucky Derby that kicks off annually in the beginning of May is the only reason you need to visit the Bluegrass State in the spring. This is one of the most prestigious events in the American horse racing calendar, held at the beloved Churchill Downs racecourse. Kentucky is also a great place to go in springtime, as the weather is refreshing and never too hot or cold.
In addition to this event, baseball fans will definitely want to pay a visit to the Louisville Slugger Museum and Factory which houses some incredibly prized items, like the bat Hank Aaron used to complete his 700th home run, and the one Babe Ruth used for some of his home run accomplishments as well. It’s also the place where the famous Louisville Slugger baseball bat is manufactured, a bat that athletes in the sport have been using to break records since 1884.
There are also batting cages and a pitching simulator for some extra fun. Don’t forget to pay a visit to the souvenir shop on your way out for some presents for your jealous friends back home.
Augusta, Georgia
Golf was created as a sport to watch and play in the summer, as it’s always fun to attend tournaments outside on gorgeous, green, manicured lawns. This season, venture to the southeastern state of Georgia, most specifically the city of Augusta, to see all the Masters’ action live and in person.
The Masters is one of the most important tournament stops on the PGA tour and awards one victorious golfer with the prestigious ‘Green Jacket’. The entire week is a major sports spectacle, with plenty of food and drinks to go around.
If you get lucky enough to one day attend the Masters and not just watch at home on TV, you’ll want to take the opportunity and run with it. Augusta itself has other things to explore as well, such as a beautiful river walk and a museum of natural history.
