It was brought to my attention that I have yet to do Houston Astros Gameday for The Sports Brat. For that, I apologize. I guess since I live in Houston I don’t see the need to do a gameday guide, but hello – y’all need the gameday guide! I recently went to Minute Maid Park and met up with Meg of Meg’s Baseball Adventures and Ballpark Vibes. Can I just take a second and say I love the community that Instagram creates?
Some of my game day favorites have actually closed down (I hate COVID) but my gameday experience was still awesome with some new staples added in.
Stay
Marriott Marquis – If you are from out of town, I must recommend the Marriott Marquis, if only for the Texas-shaped lazy river on the roof, not to mention it’s right across the street from Minute Maid Park. Marriott Marquis is gorgeous and a great place to be in general. You can lounge at the pool before a night game or have drinks at Biggio’s. You can practically plan your whole trip within the hotel and ballpark. FYI: Marriott Marquis is a quick walk to a pre/postgame destination, The Rustic.
Pre Game
The Rustic – Within walking distance from Minute Maid is The Rustic. First pitch was at 1:10 and this served as a great brunch spot. For $16.95 you can get a large brunch for one. I have to recommend the frozen mule. It is amazing. I had two. The Rustic is perfect for Astros Gameday whether its pregame or postgame; whatever you have time for. There is a great patio and they also often have live music. Please note The Rustic downtown is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.
Game Time
If you only have time for the game and don’t have time to eat before or prefer to just eat at the ballpark, you are in luck. Minute Maid Park has some awesome eats. The pretzel is huge and one of my personal favorites. If you are in the mood for food other than the traditional ballpark staples, Minute Maid Park features Shake Shack, Killen’s BBQ, and multiple bars featuring local brewery, Karbach. As always, you need to get your helmet ice cream. Matter of fact, make the helmet your collectors item. Collect a mini helmet from each team.
Some of my favorite places to sit include the outfield and along the third base line. The outfield currently has the Pluckers bar and the view from out there is beautiful. Here’s a note: if you are trying to get a view of the bullpen, you won’t get one. The bullpen is like a cage and you can’t really see in. However, the visiting bullpen in open in the outfield.
Minute Maid Park has a retractable roof and depending on the day, the roof may be closed. The roof was closed when I went recently and there was no chance for rain.
Post Game
Biggio’s – Post game you should definitely head to Biggio’s for a drink Meg had the brisket Mac and cheese and it was delicious. With all of the big screens on the wall, this is perfect pre and post game as well.
Are you coming to Houston? Let me know!