Tips for Visiting the Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown, New York

In a time where baseball has been plagued by money, and the influx of steroids that has tainted this era, one place will always remain a sacred haven for the American pastime: Cooperstown, Ny. 150 years of tradition have been chronicled in the museum, and engrained throughout the town.

Be sure to check out the two best exhibits in Cooperstown; "Autumn Glory: A Postseason Celebrated, and "Pride and Passion:The African American Baseball Experience."Autumn Glory displays an extensive amount of pictures, stories, videos, and memorabillia to capture the legendary moments during the postseason and World Season games. Pride and Passion will recognize the birth and contributions of the Negro Leagues to baseball's history, as well as the struggle and triumph of African Americans starting to play in the major leagues, and the impact they have on the game today. While the number of African Americans in the MLB is sharply declining every year, this exhibit will always remember the doors that were opened, and the glory of those that walked through them.

If you are a first time guest to the village of Cooperstown, your trip would not be complete without staying a night or two at the Cooper Inn. Dressed in ivy from the ground to the roof, the Inn is the building that most fully captures the nostalgia of the laid back village atmosphere of the early 1900's. While staying at the Inn, you have access to the ammenitities of the Ostega Resort, including golf, tennis, and swimming in the indoor pool, or in the ever tranquil Lake Ostego. the rates are surprisingly reasonable, even during prime season, considering the location, and the wealth of daytime activities to participate in.

Before or after spending a night or two at the Cooper Inn, visiting families should partake in one of the museum's richer experiences, which is the Extra Innings Overnight. During his exclusive overnight stay, you will be able to tour the museum while it is closed to the general public, leaving you a more thoughtful and leisurely pace. Individuals and families can choose to watch a movie or ballgame in the museums Bullpen Theater. Once you have had enough, you have the luxury of being able to drift off to sleep, surrounded by the gleaming golden plaques in the Hall of Fame Plaque Gallery. You can also wake up and have admission to the museum the following day.

Anyone visiting Cooperstown should remember to bring their baseball mitt, as playing catch in the village is always a special experience. Always check out the museum's website for current events, such as the "Voices of the Game," with 11 time All-Star catcher, Carlton Fisk on May 17th. For many visitors, it may be worth it to purchase a "Hall of Fame Membership," which will entitle you to significant discounts, and even private access to some events, including many rare audio and video clips. The membership can be purchased at the museum, but it is better to do it on the website in advance, so that you can take advantage of possible travel or lodging arrangements.