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| - I've visited Big League Dreams several times over the years because, at one time or another, both of my sons have played in a baseball tournament here. It never occurred to me to Yelp! about it... Until now!
In case you're unfamiliar, Big League Dreams features eight little league sized "replicas" of famous and historic ballparks. I say replicas because they are reasonable facsimiles of the old Yankee Stadium, Wrigley Field, and Sportsman's Park to name a few. I say facsimiles because the fans in the outfield stands are images screened onto fabric.
Thinking back, my first impression was probably along the lines of "Who would build something this cool so far out of town?". If you live in the Northwest valley, like I use to, it feels a little like driving to Tucson. Later, my impression may have changed to "Who would build something this cool and not maintain it?" The ball games continued, in spite of the dilapidation from the sun and elements.
Now, I am happy to say, that the facilities are finally seeing some maintenance work. The outfield seats and walls are being repainted. The sky is nice and blue over Waveland and Sheffield Avenues. It appears some of the fabric graphics have been replaced. It's a work in progress.
Now, about the concessions, I've always liked the fact that there was a kitchen and dining area at the center of each cluster of four fields. You can dine inside and watch the baseball outside or other sports on the televisions scattered throughout. The food is average to overpriced, but the menu features some items you may not expect, such as BLT's, salads and beer. After all, adult leagues play here too.
The primary reason I deducted one star is the entry policy. It's bad enough that it's cash only (when the rest of the park accepts plastic). But seriously?! Players have to pay $1 to enter?! The teams have already paid hundreds of dollars to play at your facility. My sons have never had to pay to get into a tournament they were playing in, anywhere else. And giving them a "dollar off" coin for the concession stands doesn't equal "no entrance fee".
Regardless, we had a fun weekend out in Gilbert. And my son's club team won their age bracket. Big League Dreams is worth the drive. Just remember to bring cash.
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