Celebrate the Detroit Tigers Opening Day Downtown

The biggest holiday of the year, at least for me, is here. Detroit Tigers Opening Day has arrived March 31, 2008. I can't remember when Opening Day happened this early in the past, but it is not much different from prior years. If you simply remember to pay close attention to the weather forecast and dress appropriately, you will be sure to have a great experience. One thing, though, that has changed from past years is the evolution of the downtown area and the amount of places to visit, eat and be entertained. There are close to a dozen spots that should be on everyone's radar when going downtown this season, so take notice and remember to get downtown early enough to enjoy what the area has to offer before and after the games.

Closest to the front of the ballpark is Cheli's Chili Bar, owned by Chris Chelios. Each time I have visited this bar/restaurant, the downstairs has been packed. If you don't have tickets to the game but want to enjoy the sounds and even the sights of the game, the rooftop is a great spot (weather permitting). I have often noticed the rooftop crowded with people while I exited a Tigers game through the Comerica Park gates. Rooftop patrons can get some great views of the stadium from Cheli's roof.

Toward the rear of Comerica Park across from Ford Field you will find the Elwood Bar and Grill, which is probably the closest eatery and bar to the action. The Elwood serves good half-pound burgers and other sandwiches at affordable prices. There is an outdoor patio which is almost always packed on game days.

On Woodward Avenue, across from Comerica Park, there a few places worth visiting. The Hockeytown Cafe features walls plastered with Detroit Redwings and Tigers memorabilia. Hockeytown also has more than ten large plasma TV's. My favorite Hockeytown menu item are the specialty chicken wings, but they also serve burgers. Menu items are moderately priced and start at about $7.

Skip across the street from Hockeytown and you will find Johnny Rockets. There is nothing more to say about this place other than you can find a great milkshake, burger and fries here along with a nice 50's style atmosphere.

For simply the best root beer to be found, walk about six blocks down Woodward Avenue to Foran's Irish Pub, here you will find Faygo soda served from the old glass bottles. This is where you will taste what Faygo is really about. If you have only had the opportunity to drink canned Faygo or Faygo from a plastic bottle, you must take the short stroll to Foran's to experience a real Faygo root beer (and yes, they also serve 10 other bottled flavors of Faygo). Great sandwiches made with premium breads and meats are also served here.

Of course, there are many other great places to try along the different routes to Comerica Park. The Detroit Beer Co., Small Plates and BookiesDowntown Tavern are among the many more. The Beer Co. and Small Plates are usually packed two hours before the ballgame on most days, so I suggest calling ahead or expect to wait unless you are alone and are willing to sit at the bar.

Even if you are not lucky enough to have Tigers Opening Day tickets, you will be able to join in the fun simply by coming downtown and spending the day. Many of the restaurants are opening at 7 AM on Monday, If you are not coming down on Opening Day, all of these businesses are great places to keep in mind for visiting after Mondays first pitch.

GO TIGERS!