Jaunted

Boston, Massachusetts

Things are done here until Saturday, so you better keep yourself entertained before Pittsburgh takes on Villanova at the TD Banknorth Garden. Checking out the Bruins or Celtics isn’t an option since the tournament has forced them out, so your best bet is to some grab booze and watch tonight’s game on TV. You’ll have to wait until another time to get a glimpse of the garden’s famous parquet floors. Hit up one of the Boston Beer Works around the city. Lots of creamy stouts will be on tap for March, and they usually have a blueberry beer on tap—just don’t try to pick up chicks by ordering that one.

Glendale, Arizona

The games here will appear small even if there’s big action on the court. The University of Phoenix Stadium hosted the Super Bowl only a year ago, so throwing a basketball court in the middle of it all isn’t going to give you the best viewpoints. That’s why we think it’s best to head outside of the stadium and check out the scene in Glendale. Head to downtown, it’s not as exciting as it sounds, and make your way to Pedro’s. You’ll find a classic assortment of Tex-Mex dishes, and the service will keep you smiling—even if your gambling losses have you cursing under your breath.

Memphis, Tennessee

If you find yourself walking in Memphis—sorry Marc Cohn—then you’re probably looking for the FedEx Forum. It’s right on Beale Street, so no matter what kind of party scene you’re into, it’s easy to find after a night on the town. The stadium isn’t your usual concrete square, it’s got some style, and is decorated with shout-outs to the city’s musical heritage. Vendors inside will charge you and arm and leg for some mediocre barbeque, but if you want the good stuff get your hand stamped and go outside. There’s so many great and famous places you can’t go wrong, but we’ll pick the Rendezvous Restaurant. Of course you have to get the ribs, and if you want more they’ll gladly FedEx a batch home with you.

Indianapolis, Indiana

Peyton Manning is not around, but basketball is. Here’s another huge football stadium trying its best to create an intimate basketball setting. Lucas Oil Stadium is brand spanking new—it opened late last year—so throw your trash away and don’t stick your gum under the seats. The roof opens, and so does a huge glass wall, but we’re thinking that they’ll keep those suckers closed. We’ve got no clue what Indianapolis is famous for food wise, so stick with burgers and beer. Boogie Burger has jumped on the trendy burger bandwagon, and is slinging all the usual fare. Go big or go home with the Cluck & Turf, it’s a burger and chicken sandwich together at last. We can already hear the cardiologist’s lecture, so skip the milkshake.

Related Stories:
·Boston Beer Works [Official Site]
·Pedro's Mexican Restaurant [Yelp]
·Rendezvous Restaurant [Official Site]
·Boogie Burger [Official Site]
·Hotels Heart March Madness [Jaunted]

[Photo of the FedEx Forum: Wikimedia]