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Review by Paul Swaney, Stadium Journey Co-Founder
The name isn’t the only thing that feels big when you attend an Ohio State basketball game. Value City Arena at the Jerome Schottenstein Center accommodates 19,500 spectators for a hoops contest, giving it the feel of an NBA arena. It’s not that big is necessarily a bad attribute, but when it comes to college basketball, you certainly lose the energy and intimacy that can be found in smaller venues.
FANFARE Score: 20.5
Food & Beverage: 3.5
There are plenty of concession stands throughout, but nothing that you’ll find overly memorable. I thought the Donato’s pizza was better than most that you will find in an arena, and they also offer Johnsonville brats. Overall, you won’t be disappointed if you wait to eat at the game. They offer Coca-cola products for those fans looking to quench their thirst.
Atmosphere: 3
My biggest issue with Value City Arena is the size, and that it just doesn’t have that college feel. If the city of Columbus could ever get an NBA franchise this would be a great locale. As it stands as a college venue, it can be noisy and high energy.
I sat in the very highest row, and it is far away enough that I would pass up the opportunity to sit there again.
Neighborhood: 4
The immediate neighborhood surrounding Value City Arena provides plenty of choices within a half mile for food and drinks. Senor Buckeyes is a divey sort of campus bar. We had a couple of drinks at the bar, and the bartender, Ronica Gesling (she asked that I publish her name) was good enough to invent a drink for us. She called it “The Undefeated,” and it contained Malibu rum, Captain Morgan, Grenadine, Pineapple juice, and a splash of 151. She also told us that the previous owner’s grandfather was hit by a car by Richard Nixon’s son. I can’t verify the authenticity of this story, but it was as interesting as the drink.
Varsity Club is a popular choice before and after games and is very close by, so get there early if you want to actually sit down. We stopped by after the game, and it just felt crowded and filled with generic beers. It’s probably not the spot for you if you’re wearing the visiting team’s colors. There’s also Bernie’s, a true dive bar, where you can grab a beer at the bar where Jeffrey Dahmer was once a regular (if that sort of thing appeals to you).
Fans: 3
It is clear that football is king when you’re in Columbus. Even when the team is doing well, you don’t feel the electricity and anticipation found at other college venues (like in East Lansing or Bloomington). That disclaimer aside, Buckeye fans do a good job of filling up one of the largest arenas in college basketball, and offer expected support when times are good. I guess “average” is the word that comes to mind when I try to describe these fans- they won’t do anything that is surprising either in a good or bad way.
Access: 4
There are plenty of restrooms and they are all clean. Concourses are wide and easy to navigate. Parking is ample, and you can find free street parking if you’re willing to walk a few blocks. Overall, you’ll be pleased at how easy it is to get around when you go to an Ohio State basketball game.
Return on Investment: 2
Ohio State has the most expensive tickets in the Big Ten, both for basketball and football. What you get for your money is a big generic experience. The price isn’t going to break the bank, but unless it’s a big time game, then you’re probably paying too much.
Etc: 1
For as much as this is a football school, it is also a basketball program which has been to 10 Final Fours, and won the NCAA Championship in 1960. That kind of history is worth an extra point in my book.
     
Review by Paul Swaney, Stadium Journey Co-Founder
It’s clear when you arrive at the Bryce Jordan Center that you are in football country. I like that the Nittany Lions have created an opportunity for the fans to be basketball fans. Similar to Michigan State, the students are center court, but are still trying to find their sustainability. Success can certainly breed that sort of fanaticism that makes a place special.
In the meantime, parking is close, free, and plentiful. I would like to see a seating upgrade under one basket where they offer stackable chairs rather than permanent seats. You get the feeling that this is a program entering its teenage years, and I look forward to seeing them mature to adulthood.
FANFARE Score: 18
Food & Beverage: 3
There are plenty of concession stands inside the Bryce Jordan Center, so you should be able to find something to nibble on. Burgers, chicken fingers, pizza, and ice cream are all good choices. You won’t find anything that will blow you away, but you don’t have to leave hungry.
Atmosphere: 2
The venue feels big, and the fans have trouble filling it up. With the team not delivering the excitement to make up for the lack of energy, spectators are left feeling somewhat empty from the experience. The University has done a good job of placing the student section down near the floor, so there is the potential for this to turn into a true home team advantage.
Because Bryce Jordan is meant to host music events as much as basketball, it has an elongated seating structure. The result is stackable chairs at the ends for uncomfortable seating, as well as a feeling that the arena is not as intimate as it could be if it were a basketball only venue.
Neighborhood: 3
It was difficult to judge the town as many stores, restaurants, and bars were closed since it was a Sunday afternoon. I found one bar that I really loved- Zeno’s. Any bar that you have to take the stairs below street level is usually a good thing, and although the bartenders seemed apathetic to non-regulars (tourists like myself), the beer selection makes up for any perceived slight.
 
I can also recommend Phyrst, which is a bar with some character. They offer live music, and a good drink selection.
Fans: 2
I found the fan experience to be highly disappointing. Not only are the students in a position where they could be a factor in the outcome of games, but the alumni and other fans are hardly noticeable. Like I said, this is clearly football country, and basketball is just a distraction until the fall.
Access: 5
One piece of good news is that Bryce Jordan is located near Beaver Stadium, meaning that parking is both plentiful and free. Free parking next to the stadium is always a good thing. Additionally, getting in and out is a breeze since games don’t tend to be highly attended.
Restrooms are also easily accessed, and the stadium in general is easy to get around.
Return on Investment: 2
Games aren’t overly expensive, and parking is free, so if you’re just a college basketball junkie, and you live nearby, then this may be a good option. For me, this just wasn’t worth the time and cost it took to travel there, and I can’t recommend making the trip to the casual fan.
Etc: 1
When I attended in February 2009, the Phillies’ World Series trophy was in the house, as was the Phillie Phanatic. That piece of good fortune was certainly worth an extra point in my book.
Review by Paul Swaney, Stadium Journey Co-Founder
When Assembly Hall opened on the campus of Indiana University in 1971, there were two National Championship banners hanging from the rafters. Since that time, 3 more have been added during the Bob Knight era. The mere presence of 5 National Championship banners makes Assembly Hall a must see for college basketball travelers.
FANFARE Score: 27
Food & Beverage: 3
There is nothing memorable about the food selection inside Assembly Hall, and fans would be better served grabbing a bite to eat either before or after the game. Sodas are sold in large cream and crimson striped cups, an easy souvenir, and something I always appreciate.
Atmosphere: 5
There is no doubt that Assembly Hall is just one of those magical venues that you need to see if you’re a true college basketball fan. The 17,456-seat arena regularly sells out, but the great thing is that it is a very large arena that still feels small. This is mostly because seats are packed high, rather than being in a stretched out bowl format. The bad news is that it means there are some bad seats in the house because of this set up. For my experience, I sat at center court, but all the way to the top (in the “balcony”). This meant that the view of the scoreboard was a far better view of the action than the tiny bodies I could see on the court.
My advice is to make the most of your experience and shell out the extra bucks to get good seats. It is remarkable though that even in down years, the fans come out in droves and the arena is electric when the Hoosiers go on a run. Combine that with the history that seeps into your pores as you enter the building, and you are in for a great fan experience.
Neighborhood: 3
Immediately surrounding the arena there isn’t much of a presence of bars or restaurants, but less than a mile away you can find a few options. In these situations I generally like to avoid the parking lot of park in between the arena and the eating destination of my choice.
For pre or post game, I can definitely recommend Scotty’s Brewhouse. They have a large beer selection including many local brews, and a deep menu, including some delicious ribs. My one complaint is that they were terribly understaffed, and the bartender explained away the lag in service by saying they’re “not usually this busy.” Really? On a game day, you didn’t expect to be busy? Come on. Despite that management flaw, the food and beer menu are redeeming enough to recommend.
Fans: 5
There’s just something special about Indiana basketball. You feel it when you enter the arena, and you definitely notice it when the game begins. At every other Big Ten stadium, there are some (or in some cases many) fans who yell irrational things, and it’s understandable- it’s the subjectivity that accompanies being a fan. However, the Hoosier fans just seem to have a higher basketball IQ. When they yell at a ref it just sounds like truth. That may seem like an overstatement, but truly I did not hear one fan comment that seemed clouded by their loyalty to the Crimson and Cream.
The pep band is also one of the better ensembles in the Big Ten. When they play Indiana, Our Indiana you know you are in a basketball heaven.
Access: 3
There is plenty of parking available both on the street and in the arena parking lot. My recommendation is to park a few blocks away and enjoying walking through the neighborhood. Bathrooms are fine, but if you sit in the upper level, please take my advice and wait for the elevator. Those stairs can be unbearably tough. Patience, as they say, is a virtue.
Return on Investment: 4
I paid $50 on a resale ticket shop for my seat at the very top of Assembly Hall- a pretty steep price for an equally steep view, but I still think it was worth the price to be in that arena. In fact, if I could do it again, I would pay more for a better seat. In my visits to each college basketball arena in the Big Ten however, it was the most expensive seat I had, and probably the second worst view.
Still, a trip to a Top Ten all-time program, even in bad years, is worth that price.
Etc: 4
Extra points awarded for those 5 National Championship banners, for the knowledge of the fans, for the great pep band, and just for being a historic place. You can’t help but picture the famous shot of Bobby Knight tossing a chair across the floor when you stare down at that hardwood.
Final Thoughts:
When I was a kid, I used to videotape college basketball games and re-watch them over and over. One of my favorites was a Michigan/Indiana game where Jay Edwards hits a game winning shot at the buzzer. I loved watching that shot, in part, because of the fan reaction that you pick up from the tv both visually and audibly. I always wanted to experience a game at Assembly Hall, and it certainly didn’t disappoint. Make sure you add this to your to do sports list.
Review by Daniel Wolf, Stadium Journey Correspondent
The Wolstein Center is located at Cleveland State University in Downtown Cleveland, OH. Housing the Vikings basketball team of the Horizon League, the center can seat 14,000 when big name college opponents are in town.
Normally, the Wolstein Center is cut in thirds when a normal Horizon League opponents are in town as was the case on February 13, 2010 when they hosted then 15th ranked Butler.
FANFARE Score: 23
Food & Beverage: 2
For the game the stereotypical arena food was available and reasonably priced, but the selection lacked a bit and resembled more of an offering that one would see at a movie theater.
You had nachos ($5), Popcorn ($3.50), Pretzels ($3), Reg. Soda ($3), Large Soda ($5), a bottle of water ($3.50) and beer ($6). No unique restaurants are in the arena, just vendor stands.
Atmosphere: 2
The atmosphere is a bit on the dull side in the arena and the fact that the school has to cut the arena a third smaller than it usually is really takes away from the environment since a giant green curtain is what is used to cut the arena down in size.
The CSU Vikings are hot and right off of an impressive run in the 2009 NCAA Tournament, and even though the team is on the rise, the arena looks like it could use a jolt of life into it to create a bit more excitement.
Neighborhood: 4
There really isn’t a neighbor per say since it is in Downtown Cleveland, but there are many restaurants and bars in the East 4th Street and West 6th Street areas.
One block away from the venue is the Rascal House which is mostly a pizza shop and is also attached to the Peabody’s Night Club that has had many famous bands play there throughout its years.
With a quick jump onto the free E-Line or B-Line trolley system offered by the Regional Transit Authority (RTA) anyone can get around easily in the Downtown area including Progressive Field (Cleveland Indians), Quicken Loans Arena (Cleveland Cavaliers), Cleveland Browns Stadium, the Science Center and the Rock n Roll Hall of Fame and Museum.
Downtown Cleveland has had some hard times over the past decade, but a commitment to rebuilding the area is very obvious with many construction projects currently in progress as well.
Fans: 4
The CSU fans are very passionate and they claim approximately the first 10 rows at one end of the court directly behind the basket. Waving their hands and screaming, they were into the game from the very beginning.
Some of the students were wearing Viking helmets and even the men’s swim team was present cheering in only their swim trunks, which the ladies seemed to really enjoy.
There was an instance where a fan was ejected toward the end of the game, but this was a classic case of a referee being a bit too sensitive to normal fan comments from the sidelines.
Access: 5
With a parking garage right across the street from the arena it makes going to a game that much easier. Parking in the garage was $6, which wasn’t bad, but there are many smaller parking lots surround the arena as well and were an average price of $5 for events.
Parking meters were a plenty, but with limited parking times, one must really pay attention when they use a meter.
Return on Investment: 3
For average paying fans, tickets are not too expensive, starting as low as $8 and going up as high as $25. For me, I was able to get a seat in the press area since I’m on the sports beat for the CSU newspaper, but after moving around to various sections of the arena, there really isn’t a bad seat in the house.
The food was a bit boring and could have used a better selection, but it was better than not having anything at all.
Etc: 3
I got a tour of the brand new and renovated locker room and the site of it was reminiscent of a pro-level locker room. Kudos to the university for getting all the money to complete the renovation via fundraising dollars too.
Final Thoughts:
It was disappointing to see that even for a game against the 15th ranked team in the nation, that CSU still had to cut off a third of the arena. Even though the capacity was limited, it was still the second biggest crowd for a men’s basketball home game this season at 4,681.
It’s a fun place to watch a game for next to nothing, but don’t expect to be amazed at the venue because it is just average.
Review by Paul Swaney, Stadium Journey Co-Founder
The All State Arena is the prototype “Multi-use” facility. Currently it is the home to the DePaul Blue Demon men’s basketball team, as well as the WNBA Chicago Sky, AHL Chicago Wolves, and Arena Football League Chicago Rush. Beyond that, the venue has hosted numerous concerts and other events since its’ opening in 1980.
While it can be described as flexible due to its wide range of hosting abilities, it can also be described as somewhat stale, lacking a clear personality. My biggest complaint though is not that it’s a multi-use facility, but that it lacks any real student presence. Located in the northern Chicago suburb of Rosemont, the All State Arena feels like an extension to an airport or shopping mall, not a highly energized college environment.
The University opened McGrath Arena in 2000 on the DePaul Lincoln Park campus, but unfortunately it only seats 3,000 fans so it is unsuitable for Big East basketball (it is however a great venue to see women’s basketball).
Until DePaul finds a more interesting home, it is difficult to imagine a time when DePaul basketball returns to the glory it saw under Ray Meyer. If you have some time to kill before a flight at O’Hare, or are stuck in a hotel for a conference or convention, then you may want to go to a DePaul basketball game, but I wouldn’t recommend going out of your way.
FANFARE Score: 12
Food & Beverage: 3
The one advantage of not being located on a college campus is that there is beer and alcohol available for those who enjoy a cold one with their sports (Budweiser, Bud Light, and Guinness on tap, with several other bottled options). Pepsi products are available in souvenir cups, although the price tag of $5.75 leaves something to be desired. There is an adequate selection of offerings, including Connie’s Pizza, but nothing that is going to blow you away.
Atmosphere: 2
I was surprised, and somewhat dubious, when I saw the reported attendance of 7,512. The facility seats 17,500 for basketball, and it seemed to be about 10-20% filled to me. There were so many empty seats that I didn’t even bother trying to find my ticketed seat. On the plus side, sightlines are good as long as you don’t end up on one of the ends, which feels far removed from the action. Keep to the sidelines (north and south sections) of the arena for basketball.
The acoustics are good, and it can still get relatively loud in the arena. Unfortunately for DePaul fans, there hasn’t been too much to cheer about over the last several years. Sitting beneath Final Four banners (1943 and 1979) help, as do the retired number banners honoring players George Mikan and Mark Aguirre, and legendary coach Ray Meyer.
 Aguirre & Mikan Retired Jerseys In the end though, this feels like the wrong home for DePaul basketball, and has no charm.
Neighborhood: 3
There is a large strip mall next door to the All State Arena that contains a Target and several chain restaurants. Options include Chipotle, Chili’s, Cold Stone Creamery, IHOP, Panda Express, Steak n’ Shake, and Subway. Also within walking distance is a Potbelly’s and a Starbucks. This can either be interpreted as a wide variety of options, or a dull line-up of generic options. From my tone, you may be able to guess my perspective.
I chose to grab some grub at a nearby Harry Caray’s restaurant (less than a mile away). To be fair, this is a chain as well, but one that is restricted to the Chicago area, so it feels a bit more special. Also, Harry Caray’s serves up some of the best steaks in the city. While you certainly will get lighter in the wallet (steaks range from $30-45), you will walk away feeling satisfied.
Fans: 1
The student section was one of the most pitiful examples of such a gathering as I have witnessed. Anytime the number of members of the pep band is greater than the number of students in the student section, then you have a weak student section (the band was decent I should add).
 
What’s worse, is that the public address announcer introduced the student section as the “sixth man” during player introductions. Either they have a sick sense of humor, or they are blind, and calling attention to the group was outright laughable.
There are a few diehards in the crowd, but for the most part, the spectators are sparse and predictable.
Access: 2
The good news is that it’s easy to get in and out of the arena, and there is plenty of parking available in the parking lot. The bad news is that parking costs $11, and there are no real options besides coming by car. Bathrooms are reasonably clean, but seemed tucked away, especially in the upper levels. The only access to the upper level is by steep staircase, or astonishingly slow elevator.
Return on Investment: 1
My $20 ticket, $11 parking, and $6 soda brought my in arena total to $37. The lone merchandise stand offered t-shirts starting at $15, DePaul mini basketballs ($12), and DePaul pennants ($10), none of which I particularly liked. Overall, it would take someone paying me to go back to a DePaul game anytime soon.
Etc: 0
There is nothing extraordinary about attending a DePaul basketball game. A trip to the All State Arena is a trip to blandville.
Review by Paul Swaney, Stadium Journey Co-Founder
The dully-named Athletics-Recreation Center (or the “ARC”) has served as the home of Valparaiso basketball since 1984. It is an intimate 5,000-seat arena consisting mostly of bleacher seats.
While there is nothing remarkable about the facility, it does have one important thing going for it- it is located in the great basketball state of Indiana.
FANFARE Score: 21
Food & Beverage: 2
The ARC has two concession stands, both with few options, but affordable nonetheless. Pizza and soda each go for $2. The pizza is well worth the price and the soda (Pepsi, Diet Pepsi, Gatorade, and Mountain Dew) comes in the original plastic 20 ounce container.
I would advise grabbing a bite to eat in downtown Valparaiso if you want something more substantial, otherwise, a slice of pizza will do nicely.
Atmosphere: 3
More historical than the ARC, is the former home of the team, the Hilltop Gym. It is accessible during games and includes the retired numbers of, most notably, Bryce Drew, hero of the 1998 NCAA Tournament. Larry Bird also once played a collegiate game in this tiny gym, so you may want to at least peek your head inside.
I was present for a game against a bad UIC team, and the place was about half full. It was far from being noisy, but I did appreciate that they had a 12-member pep band, and a fairly raucous student section.
Neighborhood: 3
Valparaiso is a nice little college town, and there are bars and restaurants within a reasonable walking distance of the game. I chose to drive on this cold night, but on foot it’s probably a 20 minute walk from downtown. There are numerous choices including familiar names like Buffalo Wild Wings.
I stopped into Pikk’s Tavern. They describe themselves in three words: Steaks. Wine. Friends. Good things in my book. Unfortunately, I had none of those things as I was by myself, stuck with beer, and stayed on the appetizer menu. The good news is that the steaks I saw looked good from a distance, and I really enjoyed my food.
I tried the Scotch Egg, and left wondering why I don’t have these things for breakfast more often. In case you don’t know, a scotch egg is a hard-boiled egg, encased in sausage and then baked. It’s about the size of your closed fist. They also have a good beer selection, and very friendly service.
My second stop was the Franklin House Bar. This was a more typical sports bar, with four big screens in the main bar, and plenty of dudes, sitting around drinking. They do have a nice beer selection and a decent Reuben sandwich.
On the down side, the bar is quite smoky, but if you don’t mind that, this could be a good place to spend some time and have a few beers.
Fans: 4
Compared to other Indiana basketball experiences, I was a little disappointed with the fans at Valparaiso. That’s not to say they were disinterested, just lacked that magic that I felt at Butler and Assembly Hall in Bloomington.
The student section was properly showing homage to Homer Drew, the head basketball coach for more than 2 decades. Most donned shirts that read, “Drew’s Crew,” and a few fans wore Homer Simpson masks that looked to be incredibly hot.
Access: 4
I found parking to be a snap, parking on Brown Street about 2 blocks from the arena, only about 15 minutes before the tipoff. I had heard bad things about the ability to park at Valpo, but found that not to be an issue in the town or at the game.
There are not to many restrooms, so if you go when there’s a packed house, it may be beneficial for you to sneak away from your seat a minute or so before the halftime buzzer sounds.
Return on Investment: 3
I paid $15 total online the day of the game (that included delivery fee and ordering fee). My seat was in the upper mezzanine. A word of warning, if your seat is too low in this section, you will be sitting behind the railing and your view will be obstructed. If you sit too high, then the banners will slightly obstruct your view, and you won’t be able to see the scoreboard.
My advice would be to either spring for a lower level seat, or sit somewhere between rows DD and KK. You do get good value on the pizza and the parking, but overall, I think $15 is pushing the limit of what I would pay to experience this venue again.
Etc.: 2
One bonus point is attributable to head coach Homer Drew, who went out of his way to shake the hand of the singer of the National Anthem- a very classy move.
I also reward an extra point to the three guys with the Homer Simpson masks on because I just can’t see how they kept those sweaty things on the whole game.
Final Thoughts:
I generally do not pass up an opportunity to see college basketball played in the state of Indiana, and would probably return to Valpo for a game against a better opponent. I would also love to see them rename the facility or the floor itself after Homer Drew for his long service to the university, not to mention for being half responsible for the birth of Bryce Drew, the school’s best known player.
 Game action at Crisler Arena Review by Paul Swaney, Stadium Journey Co-Founder
Ann Arbor is one of those quintessential college towns that seem to have everything. Great restaurants and bars, cultural diversity, and most of all great college sports venues can be found in abundance. While most people will think of football in the Big House when thinking of significant University of Michigan sports structures, Crisler Arena is a fine, but not exceptional, destination for college basketball junkies.
FANFARE Score: 22
Food & Beverage: 2
With all of the great food options in downtown Ann Arbor its worth saving your money for before or after game eats. I had some roasted nuts which I suppose were decent, but nothing spectacular. My brother-in-law snacked on stale popcorn. I was pleased that they offered souvenir cups for your soda, and could add to my enormous plastic cups I never use collection.
Atmosphere: 3
With six final fours and an NCAA Championship banner from the 1989 campaign, there would seem to be enough tradition to rile the fanbase. Unfortunately, the scandals that plagued the program, and forced them to vacate their Final Fours of 1992 and 1993 have left the program, and thus, the stadium experience as a bit of a disappointment.
The arena rarely sells out to its 13,751 capacity, and the student section, while decent, has not been able to climb up to elite status.
Renovations are expected to begin in 2011, and new seats will be installed in the lower bowl area, which will be a nice upgrade. The upper level seems dark and far away from the action on the floor.
Neighborhood: 4
This is where the experience really shines. There are great bars and restaurants in downtown Ann Arbor. The bad news is it’s a bit of a hike from Crisler, but once you make it you can settle in for a good time.
There are three breweries within a couple of blocks of each other downtown: Grizzly Peak, Arbor Brewing Company, and the Blue Tractor are all fine places to try. Of the three, I recommend Arbor Brewing Company for the best beer, and Grizzly Peak for the best food.
For the best in beer snobbery though, I have to recommend Ashley’s, one of my favorite bars in the world. With 200 beers available, with many exotic samples, it’s what a bar should be.
Fans: 3
The student section, known as the “Maize Rage” still has some work to do. They are positioned nicely down on the floor, but they need to find a way to sustain their energy throughout the game, and be as intimidating with lesser opponents as they are with rivals like Michigan State and Ohio State. They should be aided by a great pep band, and one of the best fight songs in sports.
 Student section overlooks the home team huddle Access: 4
There is plenty of parking near Crisler, and you should be able to find free street parking within reasonable walking distance. There are no lines for bathrooms even at halftime, and concourses are easy to navigate.
Return on Investment: 4
Despite its faults, Crisler Arena is a good value for college basketball. The lower level tickets go for $22 and the upper sections range from $10-15. In my opinion, it is worth it to go for the pricier seats, and the far superior view of the game.
Etc: 2
I will always give a bonus point to sit in an arena that hangs under a NCAA Championship banner. Additionally, its location in one of the best college towns in America is worth an extra point in my book.
Review by Chris Tokarski, Stadium Journey Correspondent
Since 1996, the Loyola University Ramblers have played home games at the 5,200-seat Joseph J. Gentile Center. Located at the border of Chicago’s Edgewater and Rogers Park neighborhoods, the arena is a good place to see inexpensive Division I Horizon League basketball on the city’s North Side.
FANFARE Score: 24
Food & Beverage: 3
Think of dining options at the local public pool. You’ll find roughly the same here: Polish sausage, hot dogs, popcorn, nachos, and candy. That being said, the dogs and Polish sausage are from Vienna Beef, so it’s good snack bar meat. A Polish and a bottled water cost $4, leaving plenty of cash for post-game brews.
Atmosphere: 4
The game’s opening had a distinct old Chicago Stadium flavor, with Wayne Messmer, the Chicago Cubs’ PA announcer, singing the National Anthem. Messmer used to sing the anthem at Blackhawks games in the Stadium, until he was ousted for taking the same job with the Chicago Wolves, Chicago’s AHL team. Tommy Edwards, the Bulls PA announcer, worked this game for Loyola – hearing both of these icons in a small environment took me back to my grade school days of going to the much-missed Stadium.
The pre-game video highlights Loyola’s 1963 NCAA championship. The arena feels like a big high school gym, bleachers are on both sides of the court, with the student section and the surprisingly good pep band at one end of the gym. Every seat is a good one, as long as you don’t mind sitting thigh to thigh with your neighbor in the bleachers. If that’s not your thing, shell out a few extra bucks for courtside seats or reserved bleachers with seatbacks.
Neighborhood: 3
Rogers Park and Edgewater are dense, diverse, and rough at the edges. That being said, as long as you are aware of your surroundings and don’t walk alone, you’ll be all right. The neighborhoods are a lot more interesting than say, Wrigleyville, and have some good places to unwind.
Uncommon Ground (1401 W Devon – ½ mile from arena)
Great selection of Chicago brews, with a focus on seasonal, local food. Nice ambiance, with a fireplace shared by the bar and the dining area. The pork belly, served with beans cooked in a red wine reduction, is happiness.
Moody’s Pub (5910 N Broadway – 1 mile from arena)
Solid burgers, go with a blue burger with bacon. The hand-cut fries are fantastic. The beer selection isn’t great, with only 5 beers on tap. If you wonder how a tavern was lit prior to the electric age, go here. Best part: free peanuts!
Hamilton’s (6341 N Broadway – 2 blocks from arena)
Skip it. Unless you like beer in plastic cups and being surrounded by meatheads. And apparently a lot of folks do, as there wasn’t a table to be found after the game.
Bruno and Tim’s (6562 N Sheridan – 1 block from arena)
A not-quite dive bar. Cheap beer, sports on 2 flat screens, and a nice mix of students and locals. My pick for a post game drink. There’s a liquor store attached should you need a warmer for the way home.
Fans: 3
Fans were loud and engaged for the game against Horizon League leader Butler. When your team is below.500 in league play, and has essentially no shot at meaningful postseason play, I am impressed that you care. Especially when you know next year it’s more of the same. There are Loyola die-hards, including a father viciously berating a referee while holding an infant. I’m all for passion, but that was a bit much. Here’s to discretion, at least while your child is forming neural pathways.
Access: 3
There’s not a whole lot Loyola can do about this, but being along the lake on the far north side puts you a ways off from any of Chicago’s major highways. If you’re in the city, it’s an easy El ride there, get off at the Loyola stop on the Red Line. If you drive, parking is $5, totally reasonable. Don’t waste your time trying to park on the street. Entering and exiting the stadium is easy, there are no lines at the bathrooms, and the wait at the concession stands was two minutes at halftime.
Return on Investment: 5
$30 courtside seats! Chair back bleachers are $20, and general admission is $13. If you get a group of ten or more together, bleachers seats are $8. The food is cheap, parking in the garage costs less than a meter. If you’ve got a sports jones and 20 bucks, Gentile will do you well.
Etc: 3
+ 1 for the resurrected Jesus hanging on the gym wall. Takes me right back to Catholic grade school.
+ 1 for the drill team’s baby doll nightie unis, which include strategically revealing holes. Wonderfully contrary to the resurrected Christ statue hovering over each routine.
+1 to the grade school floor sweeper. Great dance moves, acrobatics, and headband.
 UIC Pavilion Exterior Review by Paul Swaney, Stadium Journey Co-Founder
The Pavilion, located on the campus of the University of Illinois-Chicago (UIC) opened in 1982, and has served as a venue for concerts as well as basketball, soccer, and boxing. It seats just under 7,000 and could be cozy site to see some college basketball.
FANFARE Score: 22
Food & Beverage: 5
There are two concession stands open during UIC basketball games. I approached the first, called the Racine Street Grill, and found very typical, and I thought overpriced, items. There is good variety including hot dog, polish sausage, bratwurst, cheeseburger, chicken sandwich, nachos, Pepsi products, Gatorade, and Starbucks drinks.
At the opposite concession, the Harrison Street Grill, you’ll find the same offerings plus a plethora of BBQ goodness from Robinson’s Ribs. I tried the pulled pork sandwich for $5. It was big and delicious, and certainly worth the price.
Atmosphere: 2
It’s a tough thing to rate. On the one hand, there really isn’t a bad seat in a small arena like this. They close the upper deck for most games, so everyone is down in the main bowl with great views of the action. On the other hand, it’s a pretty stale environment.
 Game Action at the UIC Pavilion If all you care about is seeing the UIC Flames, or the opposing team play live, then you’re set. If you’re looking for a dynamic experience however, don’t expect to find it here.
I was happy to see that they had a pep band, even if there were only twelve members. By the way, what the hell is the point of a piccolo player in a twelve member pep band? Somebody please tell me.
 UIC Pep Band Neighborhood: 3
The UIC campus is located about a half mile on either side by Little Italy and Greektown, although neither is really close enough to be considered part of the immediate neighborhood. That being said, either would be a fine destination for pre-game or a post game meal.
If you want to see some sports memorabilia, check out the Italian-American Sports Hall of Fame (1431 W Taylor St). It’s less than a mile away, and right in the heart of some great restaurants. I recommend Rosal’s (1154 W Taylor) for great Sicilian fare.
As far as a place in the immediate vicinity of the Pavilion, I would recommend the Union Park Grill. There are at least 20 flat screens all featuring sports, they have ten beers on tap, and better than expected food. They describe themselves as a gastro-pub, and after trying two of their three house specialties, I think they live up to that term.
 Union Park Grill The fried calamari were big, and cooked perfectly. Best of all was the Spicy Burger- a half pound burger with blue cheese, Dijon mustard, a house spicy sauce reminiscent of buffalo sauce, served on a brioche bun. Looking at my notes I have a stain next to the phrase “really, really good. Yum.” That says it all.
Fans: 2
The fans were a real disappointment on this venue. I must say that I was impressed by the small contingent of fans supporting the visiting Wright State. As for the home fans, they were barely present, with the exception of the free giveaways during timeouts, making efforts for a free pizza or a t-shirt. In their defense, the 2009-10 version of the UIC Flames is a hard product to watch and rot for, but that’s what being a fan is all about.
Access: 5
If you drive to the game, you’ll find a lot directly across the street for $5. Street parking is available, but it is mostly metered with a two hour maximum. Public transportation is also a great option with the Racine Blue Line stop about a block away. Anyway you go, you’re in good shape with easy entrance and exit.
Return on Investment: 3
With surprisingly good food options, and good seats available, there is pretty good return on a minimum investment at the UIC Pavilion. I spent $49 for the ticket, parking, a t-shirt, pulled pork sandwich, and a small Mountain Dew.
Extra Points: 2
Definite bonus for the unexpected, and delicious BBQ. Also, I have to give it up for Sparky, the Flames dragon mascot. My two year old son loved that dragon instantly, and spent much of the game watching him mingle through the stands. Props to a professional mascot doing work at a mid-major school.
 Sparky D. Dragon enjoys the game Final Thoughts:
A trip to the UIC Pavilion isn’t going to change your life, but it is a nice little place to catch a game, in the middle of a beautiful city. It’s also close enough to the United Center to plan a college/pro doubleheader by taking in a Bulls game on a Saturday night after a Flames game.
Review by Paul Swaney, Stadium Journey Co-Founder
As I approached Carver Hawkeye by car, I thought my GPS had perhaps led me astray. The building looks like it may be the art building or perhaps a performing arts center. It certainly doesn’t look big enough to house a 15,000+ seat stadium. What you’ll find is a pleasant surprise indeed.
 Outside Carver Hawkeye FANFARE Score: 23
Food & Beverage: 2
I didn’t find anything unique inside Carver Hawkeye. I did appreciate that I was able to bring home a souvenir cup. I had some pizza and some popcorn- nothing to write home about.
Atmosphere: 4
When I entered the arena I was immediately happy. First of all, there are exits completely surrounding the corridor for easy entrance and exit. The court is dug into the ground with 42 rows rising from courtside. The other unique feature of Carver Hawkeye is that there is no center court scoreboard. Instead, there are large scoreboards at each end. The result is a feeling of openness that is not found at any other Big Ten arena. It feels simple, and it feels right. The bottom line is that there is truly not a bad seat in the house. I sat in the 36th row, right at center court, and I would be perfectly content if those were my season tickets at Carver.
 Game Action at Carver Hawkeye Neighborhood: 3
As for food and drink reviews for before or after games, I would definitely recommend heading downtown towards the Old Capitol for the bars and restaurants, rather than the relatively closer Highway 6 establishments.
I especially liked Shorts, where they have a variety of burgers, all made from 100% Iowa beef (I always appreciate local products). They had good fries as well, and overall the menu was very appealing. The beer selection was fine, but not great, and the place is a little small, although it seemed as though there would be room right up to game time.
 Short's I also recommend the Airliner bar- excellent pizza with a nice crisp crust. They sell slices as well in case you don’t want a whole pizza. My third stop was 808, which I would go back to if I was just drinking and I wanted good beers- they had the best selection of the three with several local options, although I tried the Bare Knuckles Stout.
 Airliner Bar Fans: 4
For my appraisal of the fans there is both good news and bad news. The good news is that many of the fans are seemingly more intelligent in their basketball than some others I have seen. They were also very ardent, standing at several junctures where I think lesser fans would have sat and applauded. This may be due in part to the fact that Iowa is the only state of the Big Ten without a professional sports team, causing Iowa’s fans to put more proverbial eggs in the Hawkeye basket.
Now the bad news, the student section was absolutely the weakest of the student sections that I’ve seen. Part of it is the seating alignment- they are very spread out and not in large numbers in any one location. I will say that the pep band did their best, and the Tuba players were especially active, but all said, this student body needs to get it together. Granted, Iowa has been bad for a few years, but that’s where real fans show their metal.
Access: 4
After confirming with an attendant that I was in fact in the right place, I headed up the hill to the public lot, about 1/2 mile away. Parking cost $5 and I was glad that I chose to not park at the nearby Vine Tavern and Eatery, a popular place a little further down the road that charged $10 to park during the game.
Return on Investment: 4
I look forward to a return visit to Iowa City. It’s a great venue, a nice town, and its priced right. For $25 you get a great seat with an unobstructed view.
Extra Points: 2
One extra point for the deep pit that is Carver Hawkeye Arena. I really like entering the arena at the very top of a building that appears to only be a couple of stories high from the outside.
An extra point for the power of the non-student section fans, who were a very basketball-intelligent bunch, as well as being fan-friendly.
 The Old Capitol, Iowa City
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