OT - Basketball Hall of Fame

[clydepepper]

I'm not a big BKB fan so I've never been to that hof....besides, I heard they taxidermyed Manute Bole for a display...and that's just not right.

[vthobby]

Phil,

Check out this link and see some actual constructive comments about the Hall.

http://www.tripadvisor.com/Attractio...achusetts.html

At this site, when someone does not like something they actually tell you why which is basically what you asked for.

Take the plunge. It's a good time especially if you have kids and if you enjoy basketball.

Peace, Mike

[bcbgcbrcb]

Mike:

Thanks for the link, that was extremely helpful. I'm planning a triangular trip from NJ to Springfield and then on to Cooperstown and then back home. The first two legs of the trip will be about 2 1/2 hours each and the trip back home is around 3 1/2. I always love my visits to Cooperstown so even if Springfield isn't the greatest, it will still be a memorable trip. Now I just need to get out to Canton, OH the next time that the National Show is in Cleveland, only about an hour from there. Anybody care to comment on their Football Hall of Fame experience?

[vthobby]

Phil,

I agree, there is no equal to Cooperstown. It is hallowed ground as far as I'm concerned. Quick note about Springfield compared to Cooperstown. Go to the hoops HOF but don't expect to walk leisurely around and enjoy the neighborhood like Cooperstown. You will know what I mean when you get there!

They have helped folks a bit by having a walking mall with food court as part of the basketball hall of fame so you can eat and shop a little right there without having to go outside.

Have fun. Nothing better than a road trip!

Peace, mike

[vintagebrett]

I live about 20 minutes from the Basketball HOF and head up there a few times a year - my 6 and 3 year old enjoy the interactive experience - it's not overwhelming and easy to see in a hour or two. The prices can be a little steep but usually you can find discounted tickets from a variety of sources - Groupon just had one that was a good deal with tickets about $10 a person - it may still be active.

If you plan on going just once, it's worth stopping in. They don't change the displays very often (if ever) but there are some neat historical items upstairs. There is a large amount of different uniforms from all eras that are fun to look at. As others have mentioned, it's not the Baseball Hall of Fame but it still can be fun.

The Hall has a few restaurants attached that are good - Plan B is a good burger place and Max's Tavern has a nice menu as well. Best bet is to drive about 1/4 mile to Frigo's - long running Italian deli where you have a lot of good, cheap options to fill up your stomach. As I mentioned, the Hall doesn't take that long to see so if you have time to kill, I'd recommend the Lyman & Merrie Wood Museum of Springfield History. I'm not a motorcycle guy but they have impressive collection of Indian Motorcycle artifacts plus other local historical items - fairly inexpensive and well maintained museum.