Omaha Question

[fishnugget]

I'm a longhorn stuck in Lawrence KS going to grad school at KU. I've never been to Omaha for the CWS.

Unfortunately, I have a commitment Sunday afternoon that I can't get out of. Also, I can't go during the week. I wish I could, but I really can't.

So... What i'm wondering is: Is it worth going for the day (3 hour drive) Saturday, just to be there for the first time and see it, even if I won't be able to be there to see the horns play? Is there enough going on to keep my wife entertained? She's also a longhorn, but not as much of a sports fanatic as I am. If so, what are some "can't miss" things to do while i'm there for the day? Should I try to get a ticket for one (or both) of the Saturday games? etc...

Any advice would be much appreciated. I just almost hate NOT to go, especially considering i'm just a few hours away.

 

[s102r18]

I made the trip from Austin in 1996 when the 'Horns were in their six year string of Omaha absences, and it was definitely worth it. One way to look at it is that you get to make your first-timer mistakes when it doesn't matter quite as much; you'll be better prepared for when you do go and catch the 'Horns.

If you are going to two games Saturday and driving up and back, the activities in and around the stadium should more than fill your day. If not, there are other threads here that mention things to do.

Something else to consider: you only get one more chance after this year to see the CWS at Rosenblatt. Things will change for all of us in 2011. Even though I think a new stadium was needed, it won't be quite the same without the mandatory genuflect upon entering thing.

 

[daytonhorn]

Fishnugget,
There is a world class zoo next to the ballpark. I mean about 100 yards from the Little Texas corner. It could easily entertain someone for 4-5+ hours. However, you would be well advised to visit the zoo also. Be careful. If you come up here on Saturday you might de-commit for Sunday after you experience some of the glory of CWS with Texas in it.

 

[Jason Atchley]

There are also casinos very close to Rosenblatt.

I think you should definitely go to the game. There will be a nice group of Texas fans that will love to have you hang out with them. And don't forget how many Horn fans won't have any chance to get there. You have to go in our stead.

 

[iowahorn11]

The drive will absolutely be worth it. Its only about 1:45 minutes from my house, but it's just such a great time. I would try to get up there pretty early, do a little tailgating, and then hit the first game up. Your wife might enjoy some time at the Zoo during the afternoon game. The aquarium, desert dome, and jungle dome are some great places to get inside (though the weather is much more mild this year than usual) and the zoo is really pretty sweet. There's also an IMAX theater. Personally I think she'd really enjoy that. It would keep her busy for at least as long as you were in the game. Between games there's time for a little more tailgating and just taking in the experience. Then you (and your wife) could head in for the second game. Tickets are cheap as hell, so its not like you're dropping a ton on 3 tickets for the day. If the wife gets irritable, you can leave the game early, beat the traffic, and be home by 1 or 2.

I don't know if the SAC Museum is really feasible for a CWS trip day unless you don't really want to go to either game. I had a really good time when I went there though, and that's not my type of thing at all.

I make the drive for a single day multiple times every year and love it. People will always let you tailgate with them, but there is plenty to do for just the two of you. Tons of merch shops, some cool little food places, all the "fan zone" stuff, and just some great people watching.