While Brits love their sports, Americans display a level of dedication and obsession that we just can’t compete with. It filters through at every level, from kids competing for their school sports teams, to university (or college) levels, and pro games that attract crowds in their thousands.
Even if you’re not a sports fan, attending a game offers a chance to soak up true American culture – embrace the atmosphere and the team spirit, join in with the chants and the pre-game rituals, and of course, taste all the delicious snacks
However, if you’re planning a trip across the Atlantic to the US of A, you probably already have a jam-packed itinerary, crammed full of must-see, bucket-list-worthy, world-famous attractions. But if you can, it’s worthwhile squeezing one of these sports into your list.
AMERICAN FOOTBALL
Even if you don’t know anything about American sports, you’ll be aware of American football. As the most popular sport across the pond, if you’re considering adding just one sporting event into your trip, American football is a great choice.
In the US, football is about more than just the game. There’s the pre-game tailgate parties which take place in the parking lot and usually involve lots of beer, food and fun. Then, from the moment you enter the stadium, you’ll be treated to a huge variety of entertainment including team mascots, routines from cheerleaders, and firework displays.
For an exciting game filled with team spirit, choose a college game. Or, if you’re a big NFL fan, see if you can score tickets to a professional game.
ICE HOCKEY
If you’re an ice hockey novice, all you may know of the sport is what if you’ve seen in films, or box sets like Friends – who can forget the one where Ross get hit in the face with a hockey puck?
Going to see an ice hockey match can be a lot of fun and despite the hilarity of this scene, perfectly safe. Fans really get into the team spirit, so you’ll see loads of people dressed in their colours. Just remember to wrap up warm – it can get a little cold!
If you’re going as a family, a lot of arenas offer family-friendly areas, which generally don’t allow alcohol. The kids will revel in the selection of food and team merch at the arena. Plus, if they love it, they can even have a go when they get back to the UK, with ice hockey brands like Bauer selling a range of equipment.
BASEBALL
Everyone knows that baseball is the American pastime, so that in itself is a good enough reason for tourists to attend a game. Plus, just like football or ice hockey, you don’t have to be a huge sports enthusiast to get a lot out of the experience.
Baseball is about so much more than the sport itself. Soak up the atmosphere with mascots, music and chants. You’ll find food vendors at the end of every aisle offering delicious snacks. Make sure you enjoy all the team freebies – these make excellent souvenirs or gifts. Then, when the game is over, you can carry on the fun at one of the nearby sports bars. You can even get discounts when booking tickets for all your family or a group of friends collectively. What’s not to love?
