7 Ways To Make Padres Home Games Even Better Than They Are
So now that summer is back in San Diego (you can tell because our Padres are playing), we wanted to give you some ideas of how to make the most of your game days – like Ferris Bueller would.
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Whether spending the weekend or playing hookie from work, we’ve got some ideas to maximize your game days at Petco and help you get straight to the good stuff.
Let’s face it, “Life moves pretty fast. If you don’t stop and look around once in a while you might miss it.” – Ferris.
1. Cuban Cigar Factory
A short walk from the ballpark you’ll find this modern cigar/wine bar with an old school flavor. CCF has a rich history in San Diego – going back more than twenty years. Originally a world-class cigar factory this spot produced fine, hand made cigars; hand-rolled by Master Cigar Makers from both Cuba and the Dominican Republic, in the old world tradition.
No longer making smokes on-site, this warm and inviting spot offers fine micros and Belgium brew in addition to the international wine collection and the finest selection of cigars in town.
This is where that Dos Equis guy would chill before heading into a game.
2. Kids Fest
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Not just for kids, at every Sunday home game moms and pops can enjoy gallons of fine beer, wine and cocktails – not to mention nearly every iconic SD restaurant’s food (like Hoodads).
There’s tons of free activities like team signing sessions, face painting, bounce houses, obstacle courses and the mini field for grommets to test their diamond skills.
3. Dublin Square Irish Pub & Grill
This place is authentic as f@#k! Trust me, I just got back from three days and nights working with Flogging Molly and Guinness, so believe it.
This pub is a 300-year-old sister (twin) pub that was literally handcrafted in Dublin in the late 1700s; disassembled and shipped to San Diego in 2001.
With fine Irish fare, brews and pretty redheads you’ll feel like you’ve crossed the pond – while being only steps from Petco Park. Open for brunch Saturdays and Sundays you can get your Irish on before cheering on our hometown heroes (their Corned Beef Hash and eggs are fantastic!).
4. Visit Tony Gwynn Plaza
Grab a tall cup of your favorite brew, some Phil’s BBQ and see if you can find someone you know in the personalized bricks of fellow Padres fans.
This is a great spot in the park to hang-out and pay homage to San Diego’s favorite ball-player.
5. East Village Tavern and Bowl
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Here you can pickup a top-shelf cocktail or fine brew and talk smack over a game of bowling. The environment is WAY cooler (and cleaner) than any stank bowling alley I’ve ever been to, plus the patrons smell better. This place is loaded with big screens, too, so you won’t miss a thing.
EV Tavern+Bowl also features a solid menu including Filet Mignon tacos, fresh salads, handmade pizzas and more; basically something for everyone. Located just a couple of blocks out the East gate of the park, you’ll be in prime position whether you want to knock ’em down before or after the game.
6. Pub-Crawl the Park
How many beer spots can you hit while inside our Padres home… without repeating your drink order or the location of purchase?
Last time I was there I counted 16 different beer makers represented inside Petco (19 if you count Coors, Bud and Miller Lite – I don’t). Multiply that by an average of four styles per brewer and you have a staggering amount of beer to work through. Good luck!
7. Scavenger Hunts
Check out Where Tours who can organize a custom hunt for any sized group, tailored to your interests. This is a fun way to spend time and discover some of San Diego’s hidden spots – all while trying to whip your buddies and claim bragging rights for the rest of the day.
From foodie-hunts to ‘Amazing Race’ inspired versions for those seeking a physical challenge. I’ll admit it, it sounds a bit kooky, but so does surfing to land-locked people…remember hunting for Easter eggs?
We’ll see you at the ball game with our peanuts and Cracker Jacks – GO Padres!!!
