2024 National

[Snapolit1]

Originally Posted by BillyCoxDodgers3B

Steve--

Lots of info to answer your latest questions (and probably many more you may think to ask later) if you search the site. And Google Maps can obviously answer any geographical/driving questions. Not trying to be a jerk with this reply!

I hear you, but the same reply would probably apply to 90% of the post on the board.

[BillyCoxDodgers3B]

Originally Posted by Snapolit1

I hear you, but the same reply would probably apply to 90% of the post on the board.

True.

Well, I'll reguritate my experience with Cleveland, then.

Historically, I had always fared well in Cleveland. Mind you, I'm exclusively in the autograph realm.

Having become more and more disillusioned with wasting time and money at several prior Nationals with nothing great to show for it, I said to myself, "If nothing happens in Cleveland [2018], then I'm done with this nonsense.". Nothing happened. Haven't attended a National ever since and am happy to say so. Each subsequent year, I've been reassured by those in attendance that this decision has continuously been the right one. Again, my preferred corner of our universe is more finite and differs from many here. A couple of people I know made similar personal vows that year in Cleveland. Nobody has had a single regret.

As to the venue, it's way on the outskirts of town. There's nothing much to do out that way from my experience, but it beats being in Cleveland Proper. I can say that it's defintiely the most affordable area of any current National location, and the parking at the venue is plentiful and inexpensive.

[Huck]

Originally Posted by Snapolit1

I hear you, but the same reply would probably apply to 90% of the post on the board.

I attended the National in Cleveland once. I plan to attend again this year. As other posters have stated, it is the National. I stayed with my in-laws in Lorain, Ohio about an hour away from Cleveland. I drove in each day. I had one of the passes that included free parking and 20 "free" autographs and other swag. The IX center is a massive building with plenty of parking. The complex is right at the airport. From what I can recall there was not much infrastructure nearby. As in, when you exit the building there will not be anything (restaurants, hotels etc.) within walking distance. I don't consider Cleveland a foodie destination. With the pass, re-entry is not an issue, so one could have a cooler in the car for snacks and such. Since I am an autograph guy, I had planned to be at the venue most of the each day. I had packed a few snacks in my bag which worked for me. Once off the complex, within a few minutes, there is plenty of commerce to find in and around Cleveland. I did take in a game at the new (then) stadium which was cool. There is also the rock and roll hall of fame. I don't hail from Ohio, so I found that downtown Cleveland was much better than what the media had made it out to be. If you are flying in, I would consider renting a car or make sure the hotel has a frequent shuttle to the center. Don't find a reason not to go, just go! The National is awesome! I wish the National would return to Baltimore.

[sb1]

Steve,

Next door to the airport, quite a ways from the city. Basically no where very close to stay since the Sheraton at the airport was torn down. You will need a car or Uber etc.

[skil55voy]

I took my wife with me to the National in Cleveland in 2018. We stayed at a Holiday Inn Express which had a shuttle for pick-up and delivery to the center. There were some chain restaurants by the hotel. (Not a foodie town) We spent a day at the show. It was excellent, easy to get around in and lots of well known dealers. We stayed over after the show and went to the Football Hall of Fame in Canton. We then went to the William McKinley home and toured the grounds. Great trip. The Hall of Fame was fantastic.

[mrreality68]

I am looking forward to it but the infrastructure is not their. I booked and AirB7B about 1.2 miles away.
Debating driving from NY or just uber around.
My reason for going is to see the Net54 people as first priority and enjoy the NAtional 2nd.

[Leon]

If I go, and it's 50/50 right now....it will be to renew old acquaintenances. I almost always find something to pick up though...this was from last years National. I guess it could go in the raw pick up thread too....

[ALBB]

downtown, Chef Michael Simon BBQ joint called Mables - On of the best Ive ever been to