From time to time, people ask about being on the road, what it’s like, etc., and I’m never sure quite how to answer. But I figured that, with a milestone in reach, I’d try to give a little insight. Pittsburgh is the last of the 30 NHL cities which I have never set foot in. I’ve yet to cover games in Philadelphia and Washington — although this trip will take care of that — but this will be my first-ever trip to the city of Pittsburgh. Overall, I feel very fortunate to have been able to see so much of the United States and Canada. Everywhere I go, no matter how cold it is, I always try to get out and capture a little bit of the city. With that in mind, I decided to rank the road trips. There’s no set criteria. It’s just whatever strikes me, positively or negatively, about these cities/areas, I’ll go with it… Feel free to let me know what you think about some of these places, and/or where I might be off target!
1. Chicago — I’m biased here. Chicago is my favorite city in the United States. I love everything about it. Even when the wind is coming off the lake and blowing snow in your face, it’s still a great time.
2. Philadelphia — I’m quite biased here as well, given that one of my best friends lives in Philadelphia. And I can settle the cheesesteak debate. It’s not Geno’s or Pat’s. It’s a place called Mama’s.
3. Anaheim — This is perhaps my favorite road trip, because I get to drive there and sleep at home. Honda Center also has the best press-box cookies in the league.
4. New York (Rangers) — It’s hard to beat Manhattan. Last year, we had one day and two nights there, and it was by far one of the highlights of the year. New York City is a tourist trap, yes, but it’s a pretty amazing tourist trap. I’ve been to New York four times, and each time I’ve done something different and never come close to being bored.
5. Boston — Great walking city. I’ve been there as a tourist, and even if you’re not into all the American-history stuff — I find it really interesting — there’s plenty to see. On our last morning there this season, I took the `T’ up to the North End (the old Italian neighborhood) and then walked back, past Boston Common, etc. Very cold, but still fun.
6. Phoenix — Not really Phoenix, but Glendale. The place has really changed from when I was there right after it opened. An entire shopping/entertainment complex has been built around the arena, which is convenient but it’s sort of like taking a road trip to The Grove. There’s no particular atmosphere to the place. The arena might be my favorite in the NHL, though. Phoenix/Glendale ranks high simply because of convenience.
7. San Jose — We stay in a really nice part of town here. Hard to complain. Otherwise, San Jose is San Jose. It’s just sort of there. Plus, when they designed the arena, they forgot a press box. That’s actually true. We literally have to climb to the rafters to get to the “press box,” and there are beams running all over the place. Again, bonus points for proximity.
8. Montreal — Very neat. This will sound ignorant, but I didn’t expect to see/hear so much French. Everyone in the service industry speaks English — waiters, hotel employees, etc. — but for many, French is the default. So it’s a bit awkward to be greeted with “Bonjour,” and respond with, “Um, hi, good morning.”
9. St. Louis — Another one of those cities that I probably enjoy more than most people. Really good food — the media crew are big fans of Charlie Gitto’s — and there’s something cool about the Arch and the Mississippi River.
10. Nashville — I’m not really a country-music fan, but this is a really fun city. Broadway is a street full of honky-tonk bars and a really good BBQ place.
11. Calgary — Underrated, in my opinion. Nice downtown to walk around, very friendly people, good food and a lot of good coffee nearby. There’s not a whole lot to the city, but it’s a nice experience when it’s not freezing outside.
12. Minnesota — Another city (St. Paul) that I probably enjoy more than a lot of people. Of all the foods that I consume during a season, Minnesota’s wild-rice soup is one of the best.
13. Vancouver — Loved this city the first time I visited, roughly 10 years ago, but for some reason, my memories didn’t quite hold up when I returned in 2009. It’s still a very clean and pleasant city to walk around, and it’s very scenic. Probably my favorite part of the trip is just staying in the hotel, with a room overlooking the inlet, opening the window and enjoying the view.
14. Toronto — There were two trips to Toronto last year, and both were memorable. Luc Robitaille’s Hall of Fame induction ceremony was a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and then we had a couple off days to enjoy this huge city that has a lot of character. Another good, big walking city.
15. Washington — Never been there for work purposes, but I notice that the arena is close to the Mall, Capitol, etc., so hopefully the hotel is as well. Again, if you’re into American history, government, etc., it makes for a much more interesting experience.
16. Ottawa — I’ve been there, but I couldn’t tell you a thing about the city, because we stayed out in the boondocks, closer to the arena. If you ever find yourself in Kenata, there’s an Italian restaurant called Fratelli with good food and good people.
17. Edmonton — If you’re a California native, and you’ve never been to the northern part of “civilized” Canada, there are absolutely no words to describe how cold it can get. We got very lucky with the weather last week, but when we were there last season, it was minus-18. Minus. Eighteen. Bonus points because it’s fun to be in a hockey-made city.
18. Carolina — Of all the “souther” NHL cities, I like Raleigh the best. Scenic, nice arena and it’s where I tried Five Guys for the first time.
19. Colorado — The part of town where the team stays is very nice, but very trendy. I might prefer to spend some time in downtown Denver. One negative: the “Denver” airport is ridiculously far away from Denver. It’s almost beyond explanation. I’m told the location was meant to cut down on flight turbulence. OK, fine. It’s still terribly far.
20. Dallas — Not a big fan. Nice arena, but I’ve yet to see anything that really distinguishes Dallas from any number of big cities. The fact that there’s a Potbelly sandwich place — Bob Miller’s favorite stop — nearby makes for one big redeeming quality.
21. Columbus — There’s surprisingly little life in this area, and nothing to do. My dad was born in Columbus, and he hasn’t been back in more than 55 years. Take that for what it’s worth. There’s nothing terrible about Columbus. There’s nothing particularly fun about it, either.
22. New York (Islanders) — Just our luck this year. We have less than one day in Manhattan, but two on Long Island. The arena is an absolute dump and we stay in an isolated area. I’m told there are good restaurants in the vicinity. Hopefully we find one.
23. Tampa Bay — It’s a tough call between the next three, because to be perfectly honest, if I had to contract three teams from the NHL, I would choose Tampa Bay, Florida and Atlanta. Tampa Bay gets the slight nod because it was a nice hotel.
24. Florida — True story. After dinner one night last season, a Kings staff member decided to try to look for alligators in a local pond. This is not a hockey environment. This is not Edmonton.
25. Atlanta — I sort of feel the same way about Atlanta that I do about Dallas. Atlanta drops further because of humidity.
26. New Jersey — One of the most depressing parts of last season was looking out my hotel window, seeing the Manhattan skyline and…being in New Jersey. The arena is nice, but it’s not in a nice area, and that’s being very polite.
27. Buffalo — Well, the hotel room was nice.
28. Detroit — On the list of my favorite places in the world, Detroit is, well, it’s not on the list. It’s the only place, on the road in any of my assignments with the Kings or the Daily News, where I’ve actually felt unsafe, and I’m really not trying to be provocative by saying that. I know it’s a cliche to pile on Detroit, but I’m just being honest.
spectacular read Rich!
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LBlocal Reply:
February 9th, 2011 at 7:08 pm
@Belexes, 8. Montreal — Very neat. HA!
gKg!
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Next time you are in the North End of Boston, check out Mike’s Pastries.
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kingsfaninri Reply:
February 9th, 2011 at 3:31 pm
@MTKINGS FAN, and the original regina’s
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Munchrat Reply:
February 9th, 2011 at 3:34 pm
@MTKINGS FAN, Mike’s ROCKS!
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Dee Reply:
February 9th, 2011 at 4:13 pm
@MTKINGS FAN,
Mike’s is OK but the locals go to Modern, across the street. Boston is a great hockey town, was there to see Zus win it in OT last Nov 20…the fans were crushed at having lost but were gracious in defeat. TD was tockin for sure!
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Hockey "G" Reply:
February 9th, 2011 at 10:00 pm
@Dee, I am visiting a friend here in Boston this week and we got tickets to the Bruins Vs Canadians game. The fans are rabid and fun at the same time. There are so many more places to eat around the TD Garden then at the Staples Center. Also, hearing the fans yell in that Boston accent was fun as well. My friend is taking me to Reginas and Mikes and she says the food there is the best.
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EmptyTank Reply:
February 10th, 2011 at 1:45 pm
@Hockey “G”,
You mean the Bruins V. Canadians UFC match, right? There was good hockey but even better line-brawls
Rich except for Edmonton i have had the opportunity to go to all of these cities and you hit the nail on the head with all of them. Great article. Keep up the great work.
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Gmo Reply:
February 10th, 2011 at 7:37 am
@gene, man you need to come to edm. Especially when it gets to -40 Celsius. Is lovely lol
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Great breakdown Rich!!
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Chicago is indeed America’s best city.
Glad to see St. Louis so high too.
midwest has soul that places like LA just don’t get.
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pr0cess Reply:
February 9th, 2011 at 2:09 pm
@harglebargle, I am born and raised in LA, and it has plenty of soul, you just need to find it. there is no place like LA anywhere. well i am no longer living there, i do miss alot of stuff about LA…
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sarahmas Reply:
February 9th, 2011 at 3:41 pm
@harglebargle, Amen to that brother! I live in SoCal now and if I’ve learned anything it’s that there’s more to life than weather. I can’t wait to move back to the Chi.
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Forum67 Reply:
February 10th, 2011 at 12:31 am
@sarahmas,
No disrespect meant by what I am about to write but I wish a LOT more people wanted to leave Southern California and actually did leave Southern California so I’d have less traffic gridlock to deal with.
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James R Reply:
February 10th, 2011 at 9:25 am
@Forum67, Hell yes, get out of here people! (Rudest city in the US for a reason?)
I love it here though, and can see why people don’t leave.
Jeremy Reply:
February 9th, 2011 at 3:58 pm
@harglebargle, having been to a hawks game recently in Chicago, it’s a great experience to literally “feel the difference” in different arenas. The Midwest “American pride” thing runs deep in their veins.
During the national anthem at staples we’re relatively quiet for most of the song other than the ending, then the cheering begins. In Chicago the cheering begins on the first note and is as loud as I’ve ever heard an arena before. you can barely make out the anthem at all.
Great city and great experience. If you haven’t been to Chicago, make it your next vacation, you won’t be disappointed.
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Potbelly’s really is great. Glad to see Bob Miller likes it. Couldn’t agree more with most of this list, although San Jose should be further down the list.
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Fun read! I’ve lived in Manhattan for 6 years now, and you nailed it. Can be touristy, but awesome town.
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Fun read. Wouldn’t mind hearing where you’d rank Pittsburgh after the trip, either!
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I wonder where Los Angeles would rank on this list for visitors? I’ve only been to LA, Anaheim and St. Louis.
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gralx Reply:
February 9th, 2011 at 1:25 pm
@Henrionov, Spent the 1st 37 years of my life living in So Cal. The last 8 split between central cali and Phoenix. That said, I have only been to the Forum, Staples, the Ponda an Jobing (Phx). From a slighty outside view now, going to Staples is pretty good. Back in the day going to the Forum was a scary proposition even for those of use used to going to the Forum on a regular basis.
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Mikey Reply:
February 9th, 2011 at 1:48 pm
@gralx, I agree with you there buddy. I used to go to the Great Western Forum with my dad and older bro when i was a kid and never felt safe.. and now being a body builder with years of martial arts training, i still don’t feel safe even thinking about going near Inglewood.
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Dominick Reply:
February 9th, 2011 at 2:20 pm
@Mikey, I grew up going to the Forum for games, and hanging out with my friends in the parking lot during games (riding skate boards and stuff) but I was totally nieve to what the area was like till I grew older and had a kid to worry about. It got to where I wouldn’t even stop at a fast food restraunt to let the Kids go to the bathroom, till we hit another city. I just said “HOLD IT! we’ll stop soon”.
Mikey Reply:
February 9th, 2011 at 3:43 pm
@Mikey, hahaha, my dad actually insisted we stop by places over there to “open your eyes to poverty and violence, so you little bastards wont take things for granted.” The Staple Center area does have its questionable corners.. To be honest with you, the last few games that i’ve been to have had some altercations among my group of friends and other fans. of course it wasn’t us that started anything.. its just sad that it has to happen there. You pay your hard earned money to watch your favorite team lose and potentially get into a fight.. *sigh*
Alma Reply:
February 9th, 2011 at 10:30 pm
@Mikey, I use to go to a ton of concerts at the Forum without mishap. But I was at Hollywood Park (race track next to the Forum) when the 1992 riots broke out. That was NOT fun!!
oahukingzfan Reply:
February 9th, 2011 at 5:02 pm
@gralx, I grew up near the forum and it was great to live there until the late 80′s. Then lived in SFV. Now being in hawaii for so long I miss LA. Never even been to staples yet!
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HeyChief Reply:
February 9th, 2011 at 5:15 pm
@gralx, I used to go to Kings games at the Forum when I was in high school in the mid-70s. I had little money so I would park for free on Arbor Vitae several long blocks away from the Forum. I never felt safe doing this but thankfully nothing bad ever happened.
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Peter W. Reply:
February 9th, 2011 at 7:11 pm
@HeyChief, I loved going to the Forum. I never paid for parking. I’d just park on Manchester and hoof it over. I loved going to the Whistlestop. The one at Staples is horrible by comparison. Yeah, the Forum was grimy inside, but you were so close to the action. I’m getting all misty thinking about the good old Forum.
Rich, I assume you are talking about Jack’s on Broadway in Nashville. AMAZING BBQ! Nashville is an awesome city even if you aren’t a country fan. If you are a country fan, like me, then it is close to one of the best cities on earth! Great post! Very fun read! Thanks!
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taz42 Reply:
February 9th, 2011 at 3:27 pm
@KingsFan in OC,
Opryland Hotel is worth the trip out there to see. The indoor arboritum is fantastic. Growing under a huge glass dome, trees,plants, ponds,waterfalls, shooting water displays, just a real must see. Also, the mall there has a huge aquarium of sea creatures inside a large restaurant. The old Opryland Hotel downtown is also something to see. Don’t forget to take in Tootsies bar. Lot of history there.
Nashville is a fun city to visit. You don’t have to be a country music lover to totally enjoy it, though it does help
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Denver. Really to cut down the turbulence? Every time I have flown there it is the scariest sideways landing ever.
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Michael_DD8 Reply:
February 9th, 2011 at 2:42 pm
@macdup,
I hate flying soo much haha
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DodgersKings323 Reply:
February 9th, 2011 at 7:47 pm
@macdup, Sweet! Gotta put Denver on my list then!
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Alma Reply:
February 9th, 2011 at 10:32 pm
@macdup, I think the airport’s location had more to do with population encroachment more than turbulence…
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What's the frequency, Kenneth? Reply:
February 9th, 2011 at 11:40 pm
@Alma, Definitely did. The previous airport used to seem “so far” out of town when we flew in around 1970. Now “Stapleton” seems “right in the middle” of town. Realize also that this airport is one of the newest, so they still haven’t had time for the same thing to inevitably happen to it.
Coming from LA in ’98, I was amazed how quickly I found Denver homey. Most people are impressed at how clean and friendly it is for a “big city.”
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Five Guys rocks! Way better than In-N-Out and right up there with Tommy’s.
Totally agree with the DIA comment. It is out there. It’s also a magnet for tornados.
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fiveholio Reply:
February 9th, 2011 at 2:58 pm
@Skebo,
Oh, Five Guys is a restaraunt! I thought it was an experience…
Great article!
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Scot Reply:
February 9th, 2011 at 4:49 pm
@fiveholio,
Judging by your handle, one that you have experienced? Just kidding :]
It is a great restaurant, I actually didn’t know they had them on the East Coast.
Truly was a great article, Rich.
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kingsfaninri Reply:
February 9th, 2011 at 3:33 pm
@Skebo, I thought I was the only one who doesn’t like In N Out
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Bob Reply:
February 10th, 2011 at 10:48 am
@Skebo, Five Guys Burgers and Fries is the best. I wouldn’t say “way” better than In-N-out and Tommy’s, but it is THE best berger out there.
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Bob Reply:
February 10th, 2011 at 10:49 am
@Bob, Sorry for it twice. I was trying to correct my spelling error…
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Bob Reply:
February 10th, 2011 at 10:48 am
@Skebo, Five Guys Burgers and Fries is the best. I wouldn’t say “way” better than In-N-out and Tommy’s, but it is THE best burger out there.
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More Johnny Cash, please. Sorry, San Francisco is the US’s best city. Chicago sucks. People from there think it’s the end-all be-all. Insulated thinkers here. Traffic sucks. Roads are horrible. O’Hare sucks. Miracle Mile is just rows of too-expensive shopping. Freezing wind in the winter, stultifying humidity in the summer. If you’re lucky to experience the two good weeks in the spring and the two good weeks in the fall, yes, you’ll LOVE Chicago. Otherwise it’s a battle.
Signed,
Raised in L.A., now lives in Chicago.
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gralx Reply:
February 9th, 2011 at 1:29 pm
@BringBackTheShieldJersey, SF? Really? Way overpriced, the whole region is. Have you ever met anyone that would qualify as a “normal” individual from SF? (not even referring to one’s, um, orientation)
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Luuuuuuuuuuc! Reply:
February 9th, 2011 at 1:34 pm
@gralx,
Agreed on overpriced. But lived on Nob Hill for 4 years and loved it. Beautiful, temperate, SAFE, and good nightlife if you look in the right places. Only reason I left was that the job market dried up several years back. People who visited always seemed to love it. San Jose, not so much.
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BringBackTheShieldJersey Reply:
February 9th, 2011 at 3:11 pm
@gralx, yes I have.
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sarahmas Reply:
February 9th, 2011 at 3:46 pm
@BringBackTheShieldJersey, HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA You’re from LA and you just insulted Chicago traffic – classic. AND called Chicagoans insulated thinkers when So Cal is completely full of the most self-centered, thoughtless, navel-gazing people in the world. ha ha ha. You have a great sense of humor!
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Jeremy Reply:
February 9th, 2011 at 4:02 pm
@sarahmas, well considering the two seasons Chicago has, winter and construction, I definitely agree Chicago traffic is horrible only for the fact you’re scared to death of hitting a random road worker and being put in the slammer for 10 yrs min.
-LA resident!
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You da man rich! Reply:
February 9th, 2011 at 10:44 pm
@Jeremy, hahaha! Winter and construction!!! Soooooooo true! Those damn construction dudes pop up outta nowhere!
Linda M. Reply:
February 9th, 2011 at 7:45 pm
@sarahmas,
If you can’t see that traffic in Chicago is worse than LA, you’re not paying attention. The tollways are just as crowded as our freeways, and the traffic is terrible during rush hour, which begins earlier and ends later than LA. Also, you have to stop countless times to pay tolls. It’s pretty bad. Now, I love the city, enjoy the shopping, Giordanos pizza, the architecture,etc. But the traffic there is horrible. Anyone being objective would recognize that.
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sarahmas Reply:
February 10th, 2011 at 3:24 pm
@Linda M., Oh I’m paying attention. It’s the people on my 50 mile commute straight through downtown LA that are texting, talking on their phones, making random lane changes, eating breakfast, and putting curlers in their hair (not kidding, I actually saw this) that aren’t paying attention.
Morning rush in LA starts before 6 and runs through 9:30; evening rush hour starts at 3 (noon on Fridays) and runs through 7:30PM – if you’re lucky.
Choralone Reply:
February 10th, 2011 at 12:28 am
@sarahmas, Do you work in the entertainment industry? In my experience, those “self-centered, thoughtless, navel-gazing people” of Los Angeles often move here from somwewhere else, like Chicago for instance. Maybe you should widen your circle of acquaintances…
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BringBackTheShieldJersey Reply:
February 10th, 2011 at 7:32 am
@sarahmas, You do realize that you just insulted about 75% of the people on this site? Chicago parochialism is different: many people are raised here, go to college here, and don’t travel that much, yet are convinced it’s the best city in the world.
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Buster Reply:
February 9th, 2011 at 4:33 pm
@BringBackTheShieldJersey, It COULD be worse. You could be living in PALMDALE.
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USHA#17 Reply:
February 9th, 2011 at 8:24 pm
@Buster,
Now wait a minute…that can hardly be called living.
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Buster Reply:
February 9th, 2011 at 11:36 pm
@USHA#17, I keep making cracks that Palmdale moves every time the wind comes in.
DodgersKings323 Reply:
February 9th, 2011 at 7:53 pm
@BringBackTheShieldJersey, I haven’t been to many places, i don’t have any money to experience all of the tourist stuff, even if that place freaks me out at times with the steepness/claustrophobia, even if i dislike being packed into public transit with a bunch of weirdos, i didn’t try it….even if it would be impossible to skateboard, I would have to give it my vote! How much does one of those fancy homes go for anyway?
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Now I know how to plan next season’s winter road trip for the Kings with my kids. Thanks Rich!
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Rich: Montreal at number 8 and Vancouver down at number 13? Those are two world class cities. And both outranked by Phoenix and San Jose??? Rich, you have been working too hard….
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gralx Reply:
February 9th, 2011 at 1:31 pm
@rick, Take away about 10 weeks during the worst of the summer and Phoenix weather is better than So Cal on the whole. Yes, I have lived in both places….
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rick Reply:
February 9th, 2011 at 1:42 pm
@gralx, I wasn’t really focusing on the weather. Montreal and Vancouver are beautiful, elegant cities with great architecture; lots of culture; gorgeous natural backdrops (particularly in the case of Vancouver); and that “it” factor that makes great cities great. Phoenix, or even Glendale for that matter, don’t compare on any level.
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pr0cess Reply:
February 9th, 2011 at 2:12 pm
@rick, you know ive always wanted to visit VAN, but then i heard how bad the bed bug issue is there and now im not so sure…
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VanKingsFan Reply:
February 9th, 2011 at 2:22 pm
@pr0cess, haha seriously dude.. don’t believe all the craziness. Just don’t bunk down in the DTES and you will be fine.
Come visit man; greatest city in the entire world! (slightly biased, but I have been around and was born on the other side of the country)
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rick Reply:
February 9th, 2011 at 2:42 pm
@VanKingsFan, Agreed. Don’t know about the bed bug thing, but I do know that Vancouver is a seriously beautiful city – one of the very best I have ever been to.
Linda M. Reply:
February 9th, 2011 at 7:48 pm
@rick, Glendale is a great place to see a game. You fly in to Phoenix, car service to the hotel next door and you can be on foot the entire time you’re there with plenty of restaurants and bars to kill time. Get a car to take you back to the airport and its one of the easiest and entertaining hockey trips you could ever take, and you can count on great weather during hockey season.
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I was born & raised in Detroit. It’s like beer – it’s an acquired taste. They have some of the best Polish food in the country in the northern suburb of Hamtramc. Plus it’s cool to be from Detroit. People think you’re tough. I feel bed for the city though – it looks like a war zone.
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rick Reply:
February 9th, 2011 at 1:19 pm
@Howe 9, Native Detroiter here as well. The city has decayed, but there are some beautiful suburbs. Pains me to see it at the bottom of the list, but hard to disagree. A great place to grow up, though, and I am proud to be a Detroiter!
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LBlocal Reply:
February 9th, 2011 at 4:16 pm
@Howe 9, Hamtramck today is not the same place we remember. =( In my two-year, tour of duty in Motown.. (92-94) The BEST place in Detroit is found just across the river. Windsor ONT.
gKg!
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Linda M. Reply:
February 9th, 2011 at 7:51 pm
@Howe 9, Just stay in Auburn Hills or Bloomfield Hills and you’re in a completely safe place and only about a half hour from the Joe. Its worth the experience to see a game there, just don’t stay near the arena in Detroit.
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Buster Reply:
February 9th, 2011 at 11:41 pm
@Howe 9, Just be glad that you weren’t stationed in Drambuie. I hear those girl scouts can be really tough there.
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Excellent read Rich. I bet Pittsburgh ends up in the top 10 for you. I was in Boston last year for the first time and loved it, went to a ball game at Fenway.
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I travel to Newark (Secaucus actually) at least once a month for business. You are right Rich, the area around the arena is just horrific
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puck73 Reply:
February 9th, 2011 at 4:43 pm
@kozak, Minimum 3 cops to a squad car. Newark is like the Watts of the East Coast. Grape street in Watts…Yikes !
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Had to do a double take on your Carolina post but I figured it out.
Great read and actually something to take to heart should any of us want to take in a Kings game on the road.
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Rich, if you ever find yourself in Queens, try a little restaurant called York, and order the Skirt Steak. You won’t be disappointed.
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Not sure if this might be a little faux pas, but where would you put LA on that list and what would you say about it?
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Pobo Reply:
February 9th, 2011 at 1:20 pm
Didn’t realize someone already posted this, people sure do comment quickly on this site
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“The arena is an absolute dump”…Priceless!!!
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puck73 Reply:
February 9th, 2011 at 4:44 pm
@bmova, Those Islanders and their fans are real comedians arent they ?
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Rich, let Bob know that there’s a Potbelly less than a block up 7th st from Verizon Center in DC.
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haha great read! Pretty interesting stuff.
But for your take on Ottawa…
It’s spelled Kanata. And you didn’t know that Ottawa was the capital? The Parliament Buildings??
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Rich,
I know it’s probably a lot more bias becuase you currently live there, but if you were traveling to LA from somewhere else how would you rate LA compared to the other cities?
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Online on Windsor across the border from Detroit. I go to a ton of wings games every season and I an also account to Detroit being just and awful, awful city. I am sure at one point it was beautiful, but it is headed in the wrong direction and has been for many years.
Great list Rich!
GKG
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I live in Windsor across the border from Detroit. I go to a ton of wings games every season and I an also account to Detroit being just and awful, awful city. I am sure at one point it was beautiful, but it is headed in the wrong direction and has been for many years.
Great list Rich!
GKG
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Lombardi interviewed about trade deadline http://tsn.ca/nhl/story/?id=353045
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NMKingsFan Reply:
February 9th, 2011 at 1:26 pm
@LB,
I read that earlier too, unfortunately no news there! You would think the article could have been longer.
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That was a great read. Having lived three or more years in all four time zones, I can agree with most of your rankings. Just be glad there are no NHL teams in Baltimore or Cleveland.
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Fun read Rich! I hope you get a per diem on the road for all those restaurants. I have been to most of the cities you mentioned and have to agree with your assessment, although I would rate Atlanta a little higher as far as the city goes, it has some great neighborhoods. As someone else said, San Francisco is a great city, too bad you have to be in San Jose!
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Shakes Reply:
February 9th, 2011 at 8:11 pm
@NMKingsFan,
totally agree with you on Hotlanta…completely underrated city…and the people are soooo nice
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Rich – you never disappoint….thank you.
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Can’t wait to see you and Bob Miller this weekend. Spoke to Bob yesterday. I am coming up from Charlotte for the Washington and Philadelphia games. I will also be meeting you guys in Columbus later next week. Wait till you see how loud the Verizon Center is. One of the loudest in the league. Lets hope the Kings can start the second part of the trip[ good in Pittsburgh. Go Kings Go!
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Dominick Reply:
February 9th, 2011 at 2:08 pm
@Carolina Kings Fan,
Did you get a chance to go to the All Star game?
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Carolina Kings Fan Reply:
February 9th, 2011 at 2:37 pm
@Dominick, No I didn’t. Went year’s ago in Los Angeles. Was nicer to watch on tv.
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Seabass Reply:
February 9th, 2011 at 2:18 pm
@Carolina Kings Fan,
My wife agrees with Rich about Columbus, shes bored there. I grew up there, it’s just always felt like home to me. Now that football season is over, people will be turning their attention to the Jackets and the arena should liven up a bit, especially if they keep winning.
If you walk out of the arena and head east a block or two, then go north on High St. toward campus, you’ll end up in a part of town called The Short North. Thats where all of the good bars and restaurants are if you dont want chain restaurants and “Mall Bars”.
Have fun in C-Bus, dont wear Maize and Blue.
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Carolina Kings Fan Reply:
February 9th, 2011 at 2:38 pm
@Seabass, Will check it out next week. Hoping for a great time.
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DougS Reply:
February 9th, 2011 at 7:43 pm
@Seabass,
I was in Columbus for the first time last June, for a convention. I rather liked it. The city seems pleasant and manageable, and the weather wasn’t quite as awful as I expected. But I have to agree with you and Rich, it’s not a very exciting place.
I know what you mean about Short North being the place to go, though. A friend took me to lunch at North Market one day, and it seems like a great place for casual eats. I’d go back to Columbus just to sample more of the vendors there.
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The best cheesesteak is not in Philly – Across the Ben Franklin in Woodbury is a place called Pat’s Family Restaurant (not associated with the Philly Pat’s). They also make a killer stromboli.
I loved working in Chicago and got to see the Kings beat the Hawks 2-0 in the old stadium. The blues fest is the best time to be there.
Next time in Tampa try to get to the gulf beaches – The Hurricane in St Pete beach is worth the drive (grouper sandwich).
You probably don’t have the luxury of time, but the drive from Calgary to Edmonton (through Banff) is spectacular.
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Great stuff Rich…I apologize for the next bit….but it is waaaay too easy to pass up.
“I like Raleigh the best. Scenic, nice arena and it’s where I tried Five Guys for the first time”. WOH !…TMI Rich. Thanks for sharing
= )
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Mike J Reply:
February 9th, 2011 at 1:50 pm
@SplattDaddy,
LOL Good one. Rich, how was 5 guys? I know there’s one in Huntingotn Beach/Fountain Valley and one in Cerritos and one coming to Fullerton around Cal State Fullerton.
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AZ King Reply:
February 9th, 2011 at 2:10 pm
@Mike J,
I like 5 guys. It’s no In-n-Out, but it curbs the cravings until I get home.
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jp Reply:
February 9th, 2011 at 2:11 pm
@Mike J,
There’s one in Orange, too. The debate could rage on forever, but to put it simply: the fries are vastly superior to In-N-Out, but the burger isn’t as good. That’s not to say the burger is bad, however; there are lots of customization options and I’d definitely recommend a visit.
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puddle Reply:
February 9th, 2011 at 2:19 pm
@Mike J, For those in the Ventura County/West SFV area, there’s a new 5 Guys in Thousand Oaks. And I would agree with jp… the fries are better at 5 Guys but, in my opinion, no burger tastes as good as In-N-Out’s. I make up for not getting fries by getting an extra patty (3×3) and devouring it in about 2.4 minutes.
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Stuart Reply:
February 9th, 2011 at 4:12 pm
@Mike J, there’s one in Orange off of Tustin and Collins. Had it, must say it’s a pretty good burger. Love how you can add all these topings for FREE! They have in-and-out worried, for sure.
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Mikey Reply:
February 9th, 2011 at 2:03 pm
@SplattDaddy, hahahaha. Exactly what i was thinking
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DodgersKings323 Reply:
February 9th, 2011 at 7:57 pm
@Mikey, Did that other guy just say he loves 5 guys because it curbs his cravings……………………………..:P
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Rich, got to see the Pens’ new home last summer right before it opened… be curious as to what you think about it. I thought it was fabulous…
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stats1 Reply:
February 9th, 2011 at 2:13 pm
@alma, Agreed. I was there in August and had the opportunity to attend the CEC open house for season tickets holders. Plenty of chance to walk around and get some nice photos before before the arena opened.
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Alma Reply:
February 9th, 2011 at 10:37 pm
@stats1, I especially like the Pens’ art photos in the suite areas. Took lots and lots of photos
) Igloo looked sad, tho’….
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This was an awesome read! Thanks Rich! Let us know how you will rate Pittsburgh after the trip.
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Great read Rich
since I live on Long Island, I feel your pain about the area the Nassau Mausoleum is in. If you walk out of the arena 1/2 mile west, you probably won’t make it back alive. Uniondale’s a lovely area to see murders and other assorted crimes being committed! It’s pretty sad because most of the Island is really nice…and worth seeing if you had the time. The Hamptons being the obvious..especially in summer.
Not sure where you stay on LI..whether it’s the Marriott right next door or another hotel.
There is a great restaurant in Melville..about 10-15 miles east of the Arena called Blackstones. Probably one of the better restaurants on the Island.
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Dominick Reply:
February 9th, 2011 at 2:10 pm
@nykingfan, Any word on a new Building, or is the City still blocking it?
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nykingfan Reply:
February 9th, 2011 at 5:37 pm
@Dominick,
The town is still blocking it. There’s no movement at all. A once proud franchise has been reduced to ECHL level organization.
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Dominick Reply:
February 9th, 2011 at 5:44 pm
@nykingfan, The Lighthouse project seemed the way to go. Would of turned that downtown area into LA Live. Birmingham seems happy to leave things the way they are. Shame, almost criminal in its own right.
What's the frequency, Kenneth? Reply:
February 9th, 2011 at 11:47 pm
@nykingfan, Funny, the old Forum neighborhood was about the same–so bad it was immortalized in the movie “Grand Canyon,” and probably a few others.
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nykingfan Reply:
February 10th, 2011 at 8:31 am
@What’s the frequency, Kenneth?,
It’s funny..I still see the old Forum on tv when watching horse racing from Hollywood Park. Is anything goin on there anymore?
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Kingsfanone Reply:
February 10th, 2011 at 10:49 am
@nykingfan,
There is filming still happening at the Forum, as NCIS LA just had a shootout inside on the last episode. I believe the floor has been cemented over or they took out the ice equipment, but it shows up often enough to keep the owners from tearing it down I guess. Not sure if its still used as a church, as it was owned by a church for a long time.
LOL In canada minus 18 is so normal, just another day. Wait till you feel minus 30, add in the windchill, and your hair will freeze.
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VanKingsFan Reply:
February 9th, 2011 at 2:20 pm
@Chris P. Bacon, 5 degrees and sunny today mon frere.
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OttoKing Reply:
February 9th, 2011 at 5:10 pm
@VanKingsFan, to be fair, I’m not sure if Vancouver counts as ‘Canadian’ weather, though.
I’m staring down -16 tomorrow morning in Ottawa.
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Great read. I personally loved the city of Calgary but if I ever go to edmonton again it will be too soon. And i must say American Airlines Center in Dallas is the nicest stadium Ive been too
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Stuart Reply:
February 9th, 2011 at 4:14 pm
@duckhunter, Went to Dallas a couple of years back on the New Years Eve game… had a blast, Kings won and met some natives who were Kings fans, too. Partied with them that night, rocked the jersey all over Dallas and never got abused. Good times.
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What's the frequency, Kenneth? Reply:
February 9th, 2011 at 11:49 pm
@Stuart, Wore my jersey on the ‘T’ to a game in Boston (from Cambridge) back in the 90′s and had a nice time–even talked it up with the friendly locals at the game. They seemed surprised to meet a KIngs fan who knew something about hockey.
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Rich,
I went to college in Pittsburgh… actually quite a nice town, despite it’s reputation. While there, you have got to go to Primanti Brothers. Hands down the best sandwich… EVER!!! Ask anyone and they’ll point you in the right direction… the best one is in the strip district which is where all the food distributors & warehouses are. I would suggest you order a cheesesteak with egg… you will not be disappointed. Primanti’s is the best, make no mistake.
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ErinK Reply:
February 9th, 2011 at 8:11 pm
@Doug Anderson, Actually, there’s a Primanti’s inside the arena!
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Doug Anderson Reply:
February 9th, 2011 at 9:55 pm
@ErinK, Very cool… haven’t been back to Pittsburgh since they moved from the Igloo! I’m sure the sandwich is just as good in the arena but there’s nothing like the atmosphere of the original Primanti’s in the strip… especially late at night!
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Kingsfanone Reply:
February 10th, 2011 at 10:56 am
@Doug Anderson,
Primanti’s was featured on a Man v Food episode, with the old lady who makes your sandwich. National Geographic Channel, I put it on my wish list! Looked yummy on tv!
This was a fun read.
San Francisco is my favorite US city, but it is a good hour north of San Jose. The Shark Tank is a nice area and close to some cool downtown bars.
I hear ya on Manhattan. There’s nothing quite like it, I love it. I have yet to visit Chicago, but look forward to checking it out.
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Rich,
My job has me literally flying all over the country, so I truly appreciate this article.
-Boston is by far my favorite city. I was based there for about a year, and loved every minute of it.
-You couldn’t be more right about Columbus. I’m based there now and find it nice, but nothing great. There is a Five Guys right next to OSU though, so that helps.
-Whenever you’re in St Louis next check out Pappy’s Smokehouse if you’re in the mood for some great BBQ. It’s about 10 minutes from the Arch.
-Glad to see Glendale so high on your list. The Waestgate area is really nice, but it’s never really busy unless there is a game going on.
-When you’re in Dallas next go check out the Fort Worth Stockyard, it’s a pretty neat place if you into the wild west period at all.
-On a side note, it was warmer in Edmonton than in Columbus last week.
I feel truly blessed to be able to get paid to see the country. Thanks for writing this article, and sharing your experiences.
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Great list Rich. I’ve only been to Chicago in Spring, Summer and Fall. The dead of Winter might change my mind, but I love that city. I’d maybe make the trip just for Hot Doug’s dogs and their duck-fat cooked french fries.
I was wondering how arena’s get built with such poor planning. The Ponda Center doesn’t have anyplace to put TV cameras so they have to close a suite and build a platform out front to put them. And, like you said, HP in San Jose didn’t think about putting in a press box. They are still better places as a fan to watch a game than Staples and it’s ridiculous 3 ROWS of suites that suck a lot of life out of the building.
Here’s to it not being -18 ever here in Los Angeles!!!
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thanks for sharing Rich, also please can i get of the bad list… i have post still pending…
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I’ve been to a good many on this list, and I would mostly agree with the rankings. Everything is personal taste, and how can you really argue with one’s personal tastes?
If I were to have quibbles, however, Vancouver, Washington, Raleigh, and Denver would move up while San Jose and Anaheim would move down… I mean, San Jose? Really? Ok then.
Anyway, fun read Rich!
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What's the frequency, Kenneth? Reply:
February 9th, 2011 at 11:52 pm
@puddle, Yeah, I was a little surprised at Denver. The “best places to live” lists frequently have ‘burbs around here, and I was happy when we moved (from the San Gabriel Valley.)
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If you’re going to stay near the arena, you’re not too far from the Roosevelt Field Mall and there are a few restaurants near there.
There are also some decent places in Garden City, including a sushi place called Sushi-Ya.
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I’ve been to all these places and kinda agree with most of the list. However, Philadelphia is the worst place in the world. Hands down. Well below Detroit and Cleveland.
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Thanks for a very interesting read Rich
I agree about St Louis, it’s got a beating heart of sports (though more baseball than hockey) and the Arch is just awesome.
Not sure what you don’t like about Tampa, but I have always stayed around St Pete while in that area so I guess I can’t talk up Tampa much either
Some day I hope to go to all the NHL cities too, especially LA would of course be awesome – my trips to the US have not taken me any further west than St Louis so far
On that note, as someone else mentioned above, how would you rate LA?
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Even though I’m a Kings fan and have seen games in LA, I’ve also seen games in Montreal, Toronto, Tampa Bay, Buffalo and New Jersey
Toronto is the best by far (I’m biased because I’m from there but my bias is neutralized due to the fact I can’t stand Leaf fans)
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Passemoilapuck Reply:
February 9th, 2011 at 4:35 pm
@Paul G, If by Toronto, you meant Montreal, then I totally agree with you!
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OH FIVE GUYS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I’m gonna eat there when i visit my friend in Frederick, MD. The day before we got see the Kings Vs. Caps. Can’t wait to get out there.
Rich, When you were in St Paul did you try a “Jucy Lucy?” I have heard that they are to good to put into words.
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Fun read Rich. Thanks for the insight. I’m curious, can you tell me the feelings from other press people how they feel about coming to Los Angleles and Staples/LA live?
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Going to Atlanta for the third straight year (annual music festival) and I couldn’t agree more on the description and the weather statement. It get’s extremely humid!!! Would love to catch a game away from CA and this just made things easier on my decision. Thanks, Rich!
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Keeper Reply:
February 9th, 2011 at 2:48 pm
@Keeper, Oops. I was thinking of Baltimore. Went to Atlanta last year for a music fest as well though and the statement remains true.
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Nice breakdown, Rich! About Dallas–I did a lot of business travel to Fort Worth several years back, and have to say that I was pleasantly surprised at finding Stars games on TV at the majority of the places (yes, even during football season). Rich, if you are an ice cream lover, the next time you’re in Dallas, take some time to find Milwaukee Joe’s in Southlake!
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Great read Rich. For those of us that just see the arena view on the broadcast this gives us a little insight. I gotta believe Texas has good BBQ.
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AZ King Reply:
February 9th, 2011 at 2:55 pm
@Dan H.,
It does have good BBQ, but I’ll Memphis or Kansas City BBQ any day of the week.
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Goring 19 Reply:
February 9th, 2011 at 3:02 pm
@AZ King, which one has the best BBQ ribs?
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AZ King Reply:
February 9th, 2011 at 3:20 pm
@Goring 19,
I prefer Memphis. Corky’s BBQ is fantastic. Best ribs I’ve ever had.
edwood2 Reply:
February 9th, 2011 at 5:41 pm
@AZ King, Just got back from Memphis Sun. Ate bbq every day. I recommend the pork shoulder bbq sandwich at A&R BBQ.
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Come on Rich. Anaheim?????? Trader, Do your site for the Ducks if you like it so much!!!
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Stuart Reply:
February 9th, 2011 at 4:17 pm
@Relink, he only liked it because he can be in his own bed at the end of the night… take it easy.
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DougS Reply:
February 9th, 2011 at 7:45 pm
@Relink,
That’s about the level of reading comprehension I would expect for someone who mistakes “trader” for “traitor.” Take your meds and go back to 3rd grade.
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DodgersKings323 Reply:
February 9th, 2011 at 8:01 pm
@Relink, rofl
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Shakes Reply:
February 9th, 2011 at 8:16 pm
@Relink,
[insert comment where Rich claims he's not a Kings fan but just an objective observer who happens to be at the center of the Kings fan-dom universe]
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Was at MSG when the Kings played there last season..it was really fun place to watch a game..love the chants the fans have.
Jim’s Steaks in Philly is really good too.
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Interesting read Rich, great breakdown. I always wondered what the food was like in other cities since eating is one of my favorite hobbies. BTW, how do you feel about L.A.? Ever been there? LOL
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My best friend and I are both big Kings fans and we’ve made it our personal mission to get to all of the different NHL arenas in the league. We’ve actually already been to Pittsburgh and were plesantly surprised by the friendliness of the people of the city. We had a great night going out in the area surrounding the arena and people couldn’t have been nicer, even though we were clearly dressed in the opposing teams’ jerseys. We’re also actually flying out to see the Kings in DC and Philly this coming weekend and it will knock out two more of the NHL arenas on our list. So excited for the games! This will be our 8th and 9th new arenas! I’m definitely going to take your list into consideration for our next trip!
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Rich, cool rankings. Quick question, do you have any plans of bringing a garden gnome with you to all of these cities?
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Seriously, -18? That’s it? Kamloops hits -30′s for a few days during the winter. Of course, that’s with the wind chill.
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I think Pittsburgh will be up there after you experience it. Chicago and NY are at the top for me and Pit is close. The people are amazingly nice and it says a lot how great a game is from Mellon. I plan a trip back soon to see the new arena.
I havent been to EVERY nhl city, but quite a handful. Those would be my top 3.
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Rich!
Nice breakdown my man, except the little part of Ottawa that you mentioned in your post is actually spelled “Kanata” not Kenata haha. Fratelli’s is a great restaurant and it’s funny because my uncles actually own a restaurant in Stittsville, which is 5 minutes away from Kanata. When the Kings were in town to play the Sens, my uncle called me up and told me Jamie Kompon was having dinner at their restaurant, it was pretty funny, I told them to tell him to fix the friggen powerplay! A lot of the Sens players go eat at their restaurants too, great food! Next time you come to Ottawa, you should head on over, I’ll make sure you get a discount
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Rich,
If you go on vacation, you might have to leave the continent to go somewhere new.
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USHA#17 Reply:
February 9th, 2011 at 8:14 pm
@Dominick,
Women’s Field Hockey in Ireland…
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Shakes Reply:
February 9th, 2011 at 8:18 pm
@Dominick,
…well the Kings are rumored to start the season in Europe next season…
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Kingsfanone Reply:
February 9th, 2011 at 8:23 pm
@Dominick,
Funny!
(and too close to the truth!)
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That was so much fun to read! Thank you for that!
I had to laugh when I read other peoples comments on the Forum! I can remember going there as a kid and I was too young at the time to realize how scary it was. I can remember parking in a liquor store parking lot (LOL) right next to Churchs Fried Chicken! LOL. Good times.
Staples is starting to shape up as far as the area goes…they’re really trying to clean up the area.
Yea, one more day till we get to see the Kings play..man, it’s been a LONG couple of days of no Kings hockey.
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USHA#17 Reply:
February 9th, 2011 at 8:13 pm
@Laura,
We use to park in the Sear’s Parking lot and walk a few blocks to the Forum, often stopping along the way to buy tickets from scalpers at the gas station on Manchester. Never felt uncomfortable. Cursed was the day Sears put that chain up.
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Kingsfanone Reply:
February 9th, 2011 at 8:37 pm
@Laura,
You can tell how long people here have been fans if they have Forum memories.
I’ve got a few too, like going to a charity celebrity game & afterwards going to the Forum Club & meeting Luc, Scott Bakula, Nicole Eggert, Mark (of Mark & Brian), & having a really fun time.
Going to our seats & walking right below Nick Nickson & Brian Engblom as they worked & giving them a wave.
Great memories of that place, including the Cup Run in 93. That was just thrilling & quite the rush!
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I do not understand why people like San Jose. Went there once, no ambition to go back. It was like a half city, with nothing to do.
Our best local city? San Diego.
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Fun stuff.
I’ve been to about half of those cities. I thought the feeling unsafe in Detroit part was funny, because i bet the Detroit crew could say the same about being at Staples if they walk a few blocks toward the 10 freeway.
Atlanta can be cool, in my opinion. Dallas does suck.
I’ve been to Toronto and liked it, but would love to go to Montreal.
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USHA#17 Reply:
February 9th, 2011 at 8:06 pm
@Jason4Kings,
I think Atlanta has a lot of quaint places and in general folks are really friendly.
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Lucky for you, Rich, the Blues didn’t move to Saskatoon in the 80s. Last night, we hit minus 28 C. The high today was minus 16 C. But by Friday, we’ll be back up to the freezing point! Ahh, balmy February weather on the Prairies.
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Kings need to play a preseason game in Japan, Osaka is an awesome city! If you can’t find something to do here your dead. The bar close around 5:30-6:00 AM 7 days a week. Tens of thousands of small restaurants with any type of food you can think of (except good Mexican). Some of the best French bistros outside of Paris I have found here (never been to Montreal or Quebec City). History, how about 1500 year old temples and shrines. Simple to get around with the subway, and Japan is the safest place I have ever been.
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DodgersKings323 Reply:
February 9th, 2011 at 8:03 pm
@Osaka, Best part is they have beer girls who walk around at the baseball stadiums
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Osaka Reply:
February 9th, 2011 at 8:39 pm
@DodgersKings323, With those little kegs on their backs, I almost feel sorry for them.
Now that is a rowdy crowd, Hanshin Tigers baseball game! I live in Philly during the Broad Street Bullies reign but nothing matches the atmosphere of a Hanshin Tigers baseball game, best fans in sports. Sorry Kings fans we have a ways to go.
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Hey Rich! You didn’t rank LA for us. COME ON! Spill the beans!
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The Insider now has an official set of ‘Power Rankings’. Really cool insight and I agree with a lot of these for the places I’ve been.
I remember Newark and asking a friend what it’s like before I left. He said ‘Smell your armpit’. That’s what Newark smells like. I didn’t believe him until I got off the plane. Middle of July. The air even FELT like a sweaty armpit. LOL
Toronto is top notch. The biggest kick I get is walking around with my Kings jersey on. People are STILL bitter about the ’93 playoffs.
Columbus just exists. Just another town.
Buffalo is OK. Not exciting, but compared to Columbus…
San Jose is BORING and EXPENSIVE. Arena is nice though.
I love Vancouver, but it has been a few years since I’ve visited. Too bad hearing it’s going downhill. Gotta love the ice cream shop with a gajillion flavors. I get my fill of Kokanee beer while I’m there. I did crack a joke to the border guards once and asked them where the Vancouver Hockey Hall of Fame was. They both fell down laughing.
I’d think this would be great to see twice a year as a set of ‘Power rankings’ just to see if cities improve over time. I especially like all the suggestions of things to see and places to eat! Great info. When you discover new places, it’d be great to hear about them.
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Thanks, Rich! If it was about 15 years ago, you would have gotten to see Winnipeg and Quebec City. Winnipeg in winter is the absolute worst and QC is the best anytime! Concerning your comment on Denver’s airport, how about an airport breakdown? Here are my worst three:
1- Philly
2- Detroit
3 Chicago O’Hare (sorry)
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AZ King Reply:
February 9th, 2011 at 8:19 pm
@edwood2,
I like it. I have a bit of a different perspective from my seat. O’hare actually runs really well considering how much traffic it deals with on a day to day basis, but I can understand how frustrating it is from a passenger perspective.
My list is:
1. Newark – 2+ hour delays for no other reason than La Guardia and Kennedy being busy
2. Philly – It’s just a complete disaster every time I go to that place
3. Washington-Dulles – I’ll keep the reasons to myself. Lets just say, communication can be a problem there.
I cringe whenever I see these places on my schedule.
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Shakes Reply:
February 9th, 2011 at 8:20 pm
@edwood2,
1 – NY (All area airports, JFK, LGA, and EWR)
2 – LAX (I’m trying to be objective)
3 – Denver (it looks pretty but you practically need a separate flight just to get out of the airport…let along to make it to town)
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USHA#17 Reply:
February 9th, 2011 at 8:29 pm
@edwood2,
1- All NY/NJ Metro Area
2- SFO To many rain and fog delays
3- Most Northern Airports in Winter.
Best
1- Salt Lake City Sun, Rain or Snow, that place is always open and on time.
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Re: your comments on the temp in EDM – I take it you’ve never covered the Monarchs in person around this time of year? True, it may not be quite as bad as EDM, but anything below 0 F for more than 5 days at a time is pretty respectable.
Personally, considering how new it is, I think Jobing is one of the crummiest arenas in the West for fans. It’s newer than Staples, but looks and feels like it was built by the ASU engineering students during the Winnipeg days on the same shoestring budget on which the organization as a whole is operating.
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whats teh 29th city?
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Blake Reply:
February 9th, 2011 at 6:07 pm
@Blake, the* wow
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Geoff Reply:
February 9th, 2011 at 7:34 pm
@Blake, Pittsburg, which he said he hasn’t visited yet.
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Somebody call the cops – Hammond’s password has been hacked! The real Hammond hates Phoenix! Everybody knows that…
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AZ King Reply:
February 9th, 2011 at 8:20 pm
@AZKingsFan,
hahah, I was thinking the same thing.
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Thanks Rich!!! Great read!
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thank you for actually doing this.
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Carolina – “Tried Five Guys for the first time” — glad to see you’re coming out of the closet Rich. I’m proud of you for being brave and out there. Just remember to play safe.
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Geoff Reply:
February 9th, 2011 at 7:36 pm
@Peter W., Hey, it’s possible to be a fan of both! Just like how sometimes you might want Carl’s, and other times you might want In-N-Out. Peace and love, man
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Great read, thanks Rich.
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Rich,
I’ve never been to many of these cities, but I will agree w/ you about Chicago & Manhattan. Truly great sports towns & fun places to be, & it’s impossible to beat the genuine warm friendship of the people in Chicago.
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USHA#17 Reply:
February 9th, 2011 at 8:04 pm
@dahack11,
I been to games at the Garden. Its great standing around the “hot dog tables” talking with folks. A really knowledgeable fan base.
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This was cool Rich, thanks! I’ve traveled quite a bit and gotta say I agree will just about every assessment. Although I like D.C. a lot more but I love history.
The one thing I couldn’t agree more with is Denver. That airport situation is RIDICULOUS. Takes forever to get to a hotel in the city every time I fly in..stupid stupid stupid design hahaha
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What's the frequency, Kenneth? Reply:
February 9th, 2011 at 11:59 pm
@kingsxstevenxkings, There are hotels right next to the airport. It was built that far out because of how much Denver exploded in the 80′s and 90′s.
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Great thread Rich. These are my arena thoughts, in no order
1) LA: Okay I said there’s no order, but LA is #1. Am I biased? Yes. But honestly Staples during the playoffs last year was one of the most incredible arena atmospheres I’ve ever been a part of. (#1 was U2 at MSG right after 9/11) It was like an English soccer match. There was no need for a scoreboard to tell the crowd when to make noise.
2) Chicago: This place gets going right from the anthem and the people are great. Smart crowd that’s super loyal and the food is fantastic.
3) Boston: This probably nudges Chicago… generally the people are surprisingly nice to a guy wearing an opposing jersey. You add the fact that it’s easily walkable from Boston Commons (as Rich said) and there are good bars around, it’s a win win win.
4) Montreal: Awesome crowd that basically sung their cheers, which is pretty cool and the sense of history is hard to miss. The arena halls are basically a hall of fame. They also have one of the best pre-game video montages that I’ve seen… you’re literally reduced to tears. Basically it’s a black and white montage of photos of fans wearing their Canadians jerseys around the world (mountain peaks, the Great Wall of China, Iraq, etc) with Coldplay playing. It’s simple and kinda cool that it involved the fans in an intimate way. I wish the Kings would do this instead of the weird animated marching armies thingy. The one thing is that the arena is super pretty but almost too big. I wish I could’ve seen the old arena
5) MSG: When there’s a big game here, the buzz at the arena is awesome. Also there’s nothing better than jeering Denis Potvin 7 times a game. The fact that the luxery boxes are the amongst the highest seats in the arena makes the vibe better since the fans are so close to the ice.
6) Nassau: This place is crap. Terrible crowd, awful arena, and a pain to get to. I went to the Kings/Isles game last year and there was about 45 people there. Including the players. The cost for seats 3 rows behind the bench at center ice for next Saturday’s game on stub hub? $55. So maybe it’s not all that bad…
7) New Jersey: Newark is quite lovely in the fall. The best arena no one has ever been to. I shouldn’t hate on an arena that’s a 25 minute train ride away and always has ticket available, but it’s just not a place to go to. I enjoy living.
9) Atlanta: Phillips Arena is one of the best arenas I’ve been to. Great sightlines, nice, new and clean. Also the scoreboard skits and whatnot are pretty funny. Too bad the population at Blue Land is only 50% of the arena capacity. Also despite the humidity Atlanta is awesome because it has an amazing array of food and restaurants.
10) The Pond: Nice arena, easy to get to for a kid growing up in Orange County… but I can’t stand the fans. Objectively speaking Ducks fans are annoying and weird.
11) Ottawa: I dated a girl from Ottawa which explains my trip here. The arena was fine, but it wasn’t quite clear to me why I felt like we drove like 100 miles from downtown to go to an arena in the middle of nowhere aka Kanata. After breaking up with the girl I immediately threw away my Jason Spezza jersey.
…and I’m excited about seeing Washington this weekend
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USHA#17 Reply:
February 9th, 2011 at 7:58 pm
@Shakes,
Love the Colombus tale. If you return to Atlanta and have time to kill try a visit to University Burger (about a half a block from the Midtown Marta Station). Not great (but not awful) food but amazing scene…laughable throwback to a simpler time.
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Dominick Reply:
February 9th, 2011 at 8:10 pm
@Shakes, Great read. Sorry about Columbus. Next time don’t wear a Kings jersey. Just a black T-shirt with the words “SUCK IT!” on the back.
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AK47 Reply:
February 9th, 2011 at 11:31 pm
@Shakes,
LOL you only made Ottawa your last pick because your ex is from there, realistically it’s a nice city & arena! But yes, it’s far from downtown but Kanata is still a nice neighborhood with lots of nice people
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Shakes Reply:
February 10th, 2011 at 7:48 am
@AK47,
Well to be fair there are a few reasons I happened to put Ottawa at the bottom:
1) okay okay you’re right, the whole ex thing…
2) the people behind me at the game wouldn’t stop yapping about their minor league prospects and how much they hated the Leafs. I get it, Canadian people are knowledgeable about hockey, their army is led by the beloved Rocky and Bullwinkle, and they generally are very warm…but at some point I wanted to tell them to shut up and just watch the game (by the way this vaguely ties into my #1 pet peeve at hockey games…when fans say “shooooot” and then the ensuing shot is blocked)
3) it was so cold. december in Ottawa was terrible. maybe it’s better than Edmonton but i was still hit by the constant question of “why am I here?”
4) my ex’s parents were kinda weird. this is not hockey related but it’s an important point nonetheless
5) my ex once told me that she found hockey players with missing teeth “attractive.” i didn’t know what to make of this. is that somehow a reflection on my looks? did i look weird? was i better looking or worse looking that Ottawa’s 4th line? so many questions. so many.
for those reasons…Ottawa FAIL
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Whose idea was it to paint the ceiling green at the Honda Center? I would expect SJ to be boring since i passed by a few times on my way to SF…love to visit Vancouver, Minnesota. I have no clue what that weather must be like, as someone who has lived in L.A. their entire life
I see freezing, below freezing, -18 windchill, wowzers and i’m reading a book where it got to -100 high on a mountain, yikes!
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New Jersey,
Take a cab to Hoboken and walk Washington Street (their six block long main street). It clean, safe walking area with lots of small resturants and pubs. Add the nice river front walk with fantastice NYC skyline views, the old Lackawana train station and the ultra modern W Hotel with its 5 bars.
Path (subway station) is right there, too. 4 minutes to Manhattan’s Columbus Street 8-12 minute ride to 33rd, about a block from the Garden, or go up one flight to the NY Subway and ride three more stops to Central Park.
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USHA#17 Reply:
February 9th, 2011 at 8:33 pm
@USHA#17,
And yes, there’s a 5 Guys there, too.
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Shakes Reply:
February 10th, 2011 at 7:49 am
@USHA#17,
AND “Taco Truck” off Washington which is fantassssticccc
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Buffalo smells.
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Rich,
I was wondering what you think of SEATTLE, although there is no hockey team there—but should be. It’s a beautiful city.
Vancouver is a gorgeous city and has gotta rank high.
Pittsburgh has an awesome skyline every time I see it on TV (even the old Mellon arena looked cool). It’s the three rivers area. Here’s one shot:
http://www.city.pittsburgh.pa.us/skylines/html/skyline3.html
I agree, St. Louis does look cool. And I saw Minneapolis/St. Paul from the air—nice!
However, I still question having a hockey team in the desert (Phoenix).
Columbus may be plain. The NHL chose it over Cleveland or Cincinatti because it’s in the center of Ohio and has been growing quite a bit in population (and Cleveland never worked). I guess it’s a university town and the capital but has a ways to go to be anything more.
Raleigh NC was chosen instead of Charlotte to not compete with basketball. Raleigh, the capital, is booming in population.
Nashville in central Tennessee I guess has worked out and is drawing well.
You’re probably right in that there are too many SE cities but Tampa is doing well (though not a hockey climate).
Please move the Islanders out of Long Island (maybe to Seattle). Almost nobody goes to the games anymore.
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RobC Reply:
February 10th, 2011 at 11:32 am
@King John,
And where would this team in Seattle play? The Key Arena is a dump, Comcast and Showare too small and the Tacoma Dome no ice plant…
Need to have a building first…
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Dallas DFW, Try Texas De Brazil……
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I’ll be at the game today (sitting in MY hotel room right now writing this). I travel a ton for business, and I can tell you that the next time you’re in Montreal you HAVE to go to Schwarz’s and get the smoked meat sandwich. It’s legendary (kind of like the soup nazi from Seinfield). Also, for #18, you may want to rewrite “first time I tried Five Guys” with “first time I tried the restaurant Five Guys.” That’d leave you open for less critique.
As much as I travel, ironically, this too, is my first time in Pittsburgh. As a Kings fan who lives in Anaheim (where I grew up), glad to see Anaheim high on your list. Now, I’m going to head to lunch at a Diners, Drive ins and Dives spot. Have fun!
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So funny to read other people’s lists on favorite arenas/cities. Having been to about half of the arenas and majority of the cities, I base my lists off of being a fan and experiencing an away game as a Kings fan. My visit to Nashville has prompted me to start looking for a job out there! I spend much of my time in Michigan, (not in Detroit) and yes, what Rich said is true! And having lived on LI for a bit – I couldn’t agree more! See y’all there next week!
P.S. Last time I was in Washington, there was a Potbelly not far from the arena.
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Okay, I have to defend my new hometown. First, I was born and raised in OC (Yorba Linda/Irvine) for the first 33 years of my life and I moved – BY CHOICE – to Buffalo 7 weeks ago. Yes, during winter. No, it was not for a boy. No, I am not in the witness protection program. And yes, I am sane.
I am a die hard Kings fan and I travel quite a bit for work – often to these very cities – which is how I made my decision to move. I agree with a lot of what Rich said, except for the 6 words he saved for my beloved Buffalo. I won’t go into the details, but just trust me… this Cali girl moved to Buffalo for many reasons and it’s not because of the hotels. I will leave it at this – Buffalo has some of the nicest people I have EVER met in all my travels around the states. LA can’t even compete with that.
)
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