Let’s say you were forced to create a “Top 3 List of Best Baseball Tailgating Cities.” What locations would you pick?

Well, so much is all in the interpretation. And personal biases happen to get in the way. I know some pretty rabid fans who are passionate about their cities and their teams.

It’s like asking someone to choose the best cut of steak. Everybody has their own ideas of what makes steaks great. And, really, no one is wrong.

So this is a tough task. A lot of thought and preparation went into this (okay, I MAY have gleefully tailgated in these locations before – among others – so I’ve got first-hand experience to draw from). But here are MY picks for the best baseball tailgating cities. You tell me yours!

1. HAS to be Kansas City. I mean, the Royals. Kauffman Stadium. World Series. Kansas City BBQ. Enough said, really. Great baseball, great location, great food. What other ingredients do we need for an amazing tailgating experience? Can’t think of one.
2. Gorgeous scenery. Laid-back, friendly atmosphere. Mountains. Beer! You have to include the Mile High City on your checklist. The stadium is right in the middle of beautiful downtown. And it’s all so walkable. Yeah, Denver is a fabulous place to tailgate.
3. Arlington, Texas. The Rangers seem to give everybody a run for their money lately so the baseball is exciting. And Texans know their beef so you know the grilling is going to be top-notch and the weather is great – even at the beginning of baseball season when the rest of the country is thawing out. Plus, this is a must-see ballpark.

Okay, so those are my top three. I KNOW I will have some naysayers. So, tell me, what are YOUR top three best baseball tailgating cities and why?

Remember, there are NO wrong answers.

‘Tis the season to have a cookout in the parking lot! Baseball season, that is!

And to have a successful tailgating experience, you’ve gotta have a plan. So here’s mine…

THINK AHEAD

How many people will be joining you? After you figure that number, add 10. Making friends with other tailgaters is the norm, not the exception. So bring enough plates, napkins, utensils, condiments, drinks, food and fun for that many. Hey, leftovers are always welcome. Oh, and bring a cooler just for leftovers.

THINK COMPACT

Bring a portable grill (think camping style) for your chef. Plus grill supplies. Nothing that needs plugging in, unless you have a generator or other power source.

MAKE A MENU

Go with tried and true favorites – burgers, hot dogs, buns, chips, drinks and condiments. Anything unusual at a tailgate party and you might not have takers. Then what will they eat? And don’t forget dessert!

GET COMFORTABLE

Bring lots of folding chairs and at least one table. You’ve got to have a place to set all this stuff! Make it inviting for folks to hang around and talk about your favorite team. A tent to shade your group from the sun is also a great idea. Your relish and mayonnaise will thank you, too.

HAVE FUN!

Make lasting memories with your friends and family – all while eating your favorite foods! It’s a WIN/WIN!

Photos courtesy of KansasCitySteaks.com.

Summertime’s baseball time! And one BIG reason we like to go to the ball park? Why, the food, of course!

Bring the excitement of the ball park home with a ball park inspired menu and it’ll be a home run for sure!

Start with …

HOT DOGS

I mean, how can you not start there? Hot dogs, franks, frankfurters – whatever you want to call them – make sure to have lots of condiments – sauerkraut, relish, mustard, the works! Just make sure it’s Kansas City beef for the best taste.

Then offer …

BURGERS

Hot dogs and burgers just go together. And at the ball park, you ALWAYS get a choice.

Then make sure to have …

BEER-BATTERED ONION RINGS

Absolute perfection. And they go with everything. Try this recipe for killer rings!

And finish up with …

GRAND SLAM CUPCAKES

Cupcakes in the spirit of baseballs with licorice laces. Adorable and delicious. Get the recipe here.

Have fun creating your own customized menu and bring the ball park to your house!