Batter up! Spring is in full swing, and nothing beats sitting at the ballpark, holding a hot dog smothered with all the goods in one hand and a cold drink in the other. America’s favorite pastime is a great way to bring families together for a weekend getaway. Pack the car with peanuts and Cracker Jacks, and head for Bricktown Park in the heart of Oklahoma City, or take off for Boston and relive the past at Fenway Park.
By Plane: Boston, MA
What to Do
As the oldest operating park in the country, there is perhaps no other stadium that knows the history of baseball quite like Fenway Park. Fenway is celebrating its 100th year in 2012, which includes big celebrations all season long. Of course, you’ll want to catch a game to see the Red Sox take the field, but you can also schedule a tour to catch the behind-the-scenes action. It seems that every part of Fenway is steeped in folklore and tradition – from the famous Green Monster to the lone red stadium seat that marks Ted Williams’ home run – and baseball lovers will want to be a part of it all. 877/733-7699; boston.redsox.mlb.com
Where to Stay
When it comes to luxury accommodations that fit the whole family, Marriott’s Custom House hits it out of the park. Way more than just a standard hotel, the Custom House towers high above Boston Harbor, offering stunning views of the city and a fascinating history of more than 200 years. Families will find the hotel located right in the heart of the city with spacious rooms and tons of family-oriented amenities. Don’t miss the 26th-floor observatory, where you can see the splendor of the city and tour the clock tower mechanism. Families can relax in the game room with air hockey and pool or in the activity center outfitted for little ones with miniature jungle gyms and basketball goals. The whole family can relax at the end of the day in a luxury theater, where you can even schedule a private showing of the movie of your choice. 617/310-6300; marriott.com
Where to Eat
Full Moon, a renowned urban café, was founded on a simple principle: Parents deserve to get to eat great food in a family-friendly atmosphere. The menu changes seasonally and includes delicacies from all over the world, from Moroccan chicken tagine to mussels and Portuguese chorizo. Standard kid-approved fare is also available on the menu, but the restaurant is best loved for the extras that appeal to all ages. Baskets of toys, sippy cups and even a play space tucked into the corner of the restaurant give parents the opportunity to enjoy their meal with a moment of delicious silence. 617/354-6699; fullmoonrestaurant.com
By Car: Oklahoma City, OK
What to Do
Even a minor-league park can pack a major punch, especially when it has everything for family fun. AT&T Bricktown Ballpark, home of the Oklahoma City Redhawks, is located in the heart of Bricktown, making it the perfect place to enjoy a game and the best of the city. Built in the shape of home plate with an old baseball-stadium feel, there isn’t a bad seat in the house. When the kids need to stretch their legs, take them out to the playground located at centerfield, where you can still keep your eye on the action. 405/218-1000; bricktownokc.com
Where to Stay
In the center of lively Bricktown you’ll find the Skirvin Hilton Hotel, a historic icon that has delivered elegance and comfort for more than 100 years. Kids will be thrilled by the welcome backpack filled with games and treats, while parents will love the spacious rooms with antique details and modern amenities. No matter the weather, you can chill in the indoor heated pool or enjoy the live music in the piano lounge. 405/272-5160; skirvinhilton.com
Where to Eat
Just across from the Bricktown Ballpark, you have two great dining options with a fun sports atmosphere. In the mood for an upscale meal? Enjoy the legend of a baseball great as you dig into a gourmet meal at Mickey Mantle’s Steakhouse. The steaks here are so tender you can cut them with a fork, and baseball lovers will be thrilled to check out the memorabilia from Mickey Mantle’s personal collection. If you are looking for a more casual dining option, check out Coach’s Restaurant, where you can grab a pre-game burger or pizza. mickeymantlesteakhouse.com, coachsrestaurants.com
