Being a native of Grand Rapids, born and raised, it is almost unheard of (or so I found out) that I had never been to a West Michigan Whitecaps baseball game. Now, I know why people were so surprised!
I recently had the pleasure of touring the Whitecaps’ stadium, checking out the food and looking through a brand-new and much bigger (from what I am told) fan shop! Thanks to our amazing guide Mickey Graham, director of media and marketing relations, we were given a full tour and able to see the field from all angles. Several suites surround and rise above the first and third baselines, along with premium outdoor seating. There is not a bad seat in the house.
We toured the sound booths and were even encouraged to “say a little something” over the loud speaker. The enormous amount of work that has been completed to rebuild from a fire in January is nothing short of amazing! From redone suites to locker rooms and snack bars, it is on the verge of completion. WOW.
Then there’s the food. Well, we definitely don’t come to the ballgame to count calories—and Fifth Third Ballpark does not disappoint. From the pulled pork, ham, and shrimp Coaches’ Sandwich, to the Pretzilla Bacon Cheeseburger on a pretzel bun, all I can say is YUM! Don’t forget about the park’s winning Auger Dogger, either. How can you go wrong with a deep-fried hot dog wrapped in a crispy spiral potato chip? For dessert, try the Ice Box Brand Ice Cream Bars, handmade here in West Michigan. Delish!
Every game has between twenty and twenty-five promotions. That means more gifts and freebies for you and your kids! There are also featured theme nights. You could wear your tiara for Princess Night or pump up your hair for ‘80s Prom Night, all for under $14 admission. Can’t beat it!
The ballpark promises new offices and a roof top deck in 2015, along with a craft beer bar. (Things just keep getting better.) This was a great visit for me—there’s so much to do and for everyone in the family, no matter what age. I’ll tell you what: This mom is going to get taken out the ballgame this summer!
Written by: Angie Dykstra is the media consultant for West Michigan Woman. We’re pretty sure her family will take her out to the ballgame. Maybe they’ll even try the Tony Gates Venison Burger.
