Cooperstown - 1991 vs. 2023

[Turd Ferguson]

Last time I went to Cooperstown was in July, 1991. Saw the Hall Of Fame Game (seeing Kirby Puckett was amazing and Greg Litton played all nine positions - still have my tix!) at Doubleday Field, watched as players like Ted Williams and Fergie Jenkins crossed the street, visited the Fenimore House because it was history (which was a really interesting place to go) and something my Mom wanted to do that wasn't baseball. We didn't see the inductions, but it was Carew, Fergie and Gaylord Perry (I don't remember seeing Carew or Perry anywhere). I was 17 and that was a wonderful trip.

Turning 50 next year, and as a Rangers fan seeing how Beltre should get in, I wondered...for those of you who have been there in the last X number of years, is it worth it.

I ask from the perspective of affordability, places to stay, and growth of the crowds. In 1991, there were only a few places to stay (we stayed in a BnB for two nights then), a decent number of people, but they didn't sell all the tix for Doubleday, and touring the Hall was easy - could stand and watch all of "Who's On First" for at least two loops before moving on to the exhibits.

Trying to get a feel from those who may have been there recently. Cost is a factor and isn't a deal-breaker...but it matters. I don't want to feel naive, but I can't help but think that everything is overpriced because of how the last few years have been - life changes and so does the price of admission.

Also, do they still have the batting cages that throw curves, change and knuckleballs? Because when I was there, they were literally throwing 70% MLB speeds and it was terrifying. They took care of those machines.

Sorry for the down memory lane thing. Maybe that happens when your warranty is getting close to running out.

[CdnOsFan]

Better decide soon! Probably no where close to stay that isn't booked already. Staying in Syracuse or Albany is a cheaper option but you better do it soon as the prices go higher and sell out!

Went last summer on a weekend with nothing really going on and it was busy. Such a beautiful area!

[FTLFTL]

Originally Posted by Turd Ferguson

Last time I went to Cooperstown was in July, 1991. Saw the Hall Of Fame Game (seeing Kirby Puckett was amazing and Greg Litton played all nine positions - still have my tix!) at Doubleday Field, watched as players like Ted Williams and Fergie Jenkins crossed the street, visited the Fenimore House because it was history (which was a really interesting place to go) and something my Mom wanted to do that wasn't baseball. We didn't see the inductions, but it was Carew, Fergie and Gaylord Perry (I don't remember seeing Carew or Perry anywhere). I was 17 and that was a wonderful trip.

Turning 50 next year, and as a Rangers fan seeing how Beltre should get in, I wondered...for those of you who have been there in the last X number of years, is it worth it.

I ask from the perspective of affordability, places to stay, and growth of the crowds. In 1991, there were only a few places to stay (we stayed in a BnB for two nights then), a decent number of people, but they didn't sell all the tix for Doubleday, and touring the Hall was easy - could stand and watch all of "Who's On First" for at least two loops before moving on to the exhibits.

Trying to get a feel from those who may have been there recently. Cost is a factor and isn't a deal-breaker...but it matters. I don't want to feel naive, but I can't help but think that everything is overpriced because of how the last few years have been - life changes and so does the price of admission.

Also, do they still have the batting cages that throw curves, change and knuckleballs? Because when I was there, they were literally throwing 70% MLB speeds and it was terrifying. They took care of those machines.

Sorry for the down memory lane thing. Maybe that happens when your warranty is getting close to running out.

I've been there probably 50 times over the years. I was last there in summer 2019. Yes to the batting cages, but not sure how hard they throw because I didn't use them. Town has a bit more in it than the 90s, but still a tiny, quaint town. Cheaper to stay in Syracuse or Albany, but the Otsega is a legitimately nice hotel with a lot to do on site and you're right on the lake, which is peaceful and serene (they literally chose Cooperstown because it's a great vacation spot in the summer). You can check out Ommegang brewery while you're there.

[silverandblack]

If you are trying to go during induction weekend you are out of luck for a hotel in Cooperstown, they fill up a year in advance. You may luck out and find something in oneonta if you keep checking. Albany will have hotel rooms and is about an hour or so away but you’ll need a car. I’ve been to every induction weekend since 1997 and the town is wildly different then it was the last time you went. Not as many baseball themed stores. You’ll have no issues with getting in the hall and being able to see everything you want to see. The crowds aren’t what they used to be aside from years the really big name guys go in.they also no longer do the hall of fame game on induction weekend

[hairysasquatch]

Two hour drive from Chez Sasquatch Air BNB to Cooperstown. But I'm tight with the owner of Sal's Pizzeria so you get a free slice and Coke coupon with your stay.

[Myerburg311]

I went in October and stayed at the Tunicliff Inn which is right in town, a block from the Hall. It's a very old building and had cracks and uneven floors but the convenience of walking from the room to everywhere with ease was great

[PLAYED4NOTHING]

I’m loving this thread and all the info. Went in 92’ with my parents and dog and had the best time ever. Remember it very well and what a beautiful area. I remember buying some baseball cards at Mickeys place. Does anyone remember that I’m assuming it’s gone now ? What a special place tho and nothing wrong with driving an hour or two from your hotel Im sure.

[ottobord]

Originally Posted by PLAYED4NOTHING

I’m loving this thread and all the info. Went in 92’ with my parents and dog and had the best time ever. Remember it very well and what a beautiful area. I remember buying some baseball cards at Mickeys place. Does anyone remember that I’m assuming it’s gone now ? What a special place tho and nothing wrong with driving an hour or two from your hotel In sure ��

Mickey's place is still there.

[PLAYED4NOTHING]

Originally Posted by ottobord

Mickey's place is still there.

No kidding ! Ahh makes me happy to know that some things actually remain the same. Very cool & thanks !

[PLAYED4NOTHING]

Originally Posted by hairysasquatch

Two hour drive from Chez Sasquatch Air BNB to Cooperstown. But I'm tight with the owner of Sal's Pizzeria so you get a free slice and Coke coupon with your stay.

Sounds like it’s good to be a Sasquatch in upstate New York. Slice a pizza & a Coke ain’t cheap in 2023 !

[ottobord]

My advice is go in the off season if you can. When the crowds aren't that big. You can concentrate on the exhibits. Plan all day at the museum. Go when in first opens, go for lunch and finish the museum in the afternoon. This sounds harsh but try not to go with disinterested company. They'll get bored fast and you'll be pressured to leave early. Also pretty much everything in the Museum store can be found cheaper on the Internet. Try to make it to Brooks barbecue in Oneata. I recommend just getting the chicken. It's outstanding.

[QuinEarlyDoucet]

HAHHA legit came in here waiting for your Sal's comment. that place if the worst!

Originally Posted by hairysasquatch

Two hour drive from Chez Sasquatch Air BNB to Cooperstown. But I'm tight with the owner of Sal's Pizzeria so you get a free slice and Coke coupon with your stay.