With attractions like the Museum of Science and Industry, the Symphony Center and the Lincoln Park Zoo, just to name a few, it is no wonder that Chicago, Illinois, is among the most visited cities in America. For baseball fans, it offers an experience like no other, with two stadiums—historic Wrigley Field and U.S. Cellular—as well as the unique, sports-concentrated neighborhood of Wrigleyville.
Through Sports Travel and Tours, baseball fans have the chance to explore the Windy City along with Milwaukee and Minneapolis during the five-day Windy City Plus trip, which features stops at three ballparks and four games.
The journey, which represents the first leg of the Central Express trip, commences on Wednesday, June 8, when travelers will arrive in Chicago and attend a trip reception at Harry Caray’s Restaurant. After a potentially long flight, the reception gives travelers a chance to unwind for the evening while getting to know their tour host and fellow guests.
While in Chicago, travelers will stay in the SpringHill Suites by Residence Inn (a Marriott company). These newly renovated rooms are 25 percent larger than traditional rooms and provide breathtaking views of the surrounding city. With excellent reviews, the hotel offers a complimentary breakfast, dining and drinks at the Hub 51, and an indoor pool and hot tub.
On Thursday, travelers will embark on a half-day city tour that will provide an all-encompassing look at the city, perhaps featuring the aforementioned attractions and undoubtedly much more. Starting at 7:10 p.m., they will attend a game at U.S. Cellular Field, where the Chicago White Sox will play the Washington Nationals.
First thing Friday, it’s off to Milwaukee, where travelers will attend a stadium tour of Miller Park before visiting the city’s historic third ward. Known as Milwaukee’s arts and fashion district, the third ward offers a dynamic array of restaurants, spas, theaters, galleries and boutiques all in a historic warehouse setting.
Later in the evening, guests will return to Miller Park to watch the Brewers take on the New York Mets, runners up in the 2015 World Series. They will spend the night at the Fairfield Inn & Suites in Madison, Wisconsin, located within a mile of more than 150 shops and restaurants.
A complimentary breakfast will help travelers start their day off right as they head next to Minneapolis for a game between the Minnesota Twins and the Boston Red Sox at Target Field.
The two teams match up again on Sunday, with both games starting at 1:10 p.m., and travelers are given significant leisure time in between. The number one destination in Minneapolis that visitors should explore, according to TripAdvisor, is the Minneapolis Art Institute (Mia), which houses an incredible 89,000 pieces from six continents spanning 20,000 years!
Other notable attractions include the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden, Guthrie Theater and numerous natural beauties, such as Lake Harriet or Lake Calhoun, where canoe rentals are offered for a memorable family experience.
While in Minneapolis, travelers will stay in a Hyatt Place hotel, complete with an indoor pool, hot tub and 24-hour StayFit Gym. With the Coffee to Cocktails Bar, the 24-hour Gallery Menu and Grab n’ Go options, guests will not leave hungry.
Following the second game between the Twins and the Red Sox, the trip concludes and travelers can depart from the Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport. Additional pre-trip and post-trip nights are optional.
Travelers also receive a trip souvenir, 24-hour trip assistance and transportation between cities and to and from events in a deluxe motor coach, ensuring you will ride in style!
After the Windy City Plus trip concludes, the 11-day Central Express trip continues on to Kansas City, St. Louis and back to Chicago for games at Kauffman Stadium, Busch Stadium and Wrigley Field.
Learn more about the Windy City Plus or Central Express trips.