Planning on traveling to get some first hand action of the March Madness? Want to know the best place to pick up some fresh kicks, or eat some delicious local cuisine?
Dime has your official 2012 NCAA March Madness travel guide. We’ll be breaking down every host city in the tournament, with a look at where the sneakerheads need to visit, places to wine and dine, and even attractions if you’re just looking for a taste of that city’s culture.
First up today is part one of the first round, four of the cities that’ll be hosting games this weekend: Louisville, Portland, Pittsburgh and Omaha.
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Part 1: Louisville, Portland, Pittsburgh and Omaha
LOUISVILLE
Shopping: Sole Foundation – 8026 New Lagrange Road, Louisville, KY 40222
Want to get a fresh pair of Jordans before heading to the arena? Sole Foundation has got you covered. Of note are the boutique’s unworn consignment shoes, so you can pick up some rare kicks at a great price.
Grubbing: Hammerheads – 921 Swan Street, Louisville, KY 40204
Sure its divey and your clothes will reek like a smokehouse, but where else in town can you get unique items like a venison or elk burger? According to locals, the smoked baby back ribs are a must try.
Sight Seeing: Muhammad Ali Center – 144 North 6th Street, Louisville, KY 40202
Muhammad Ali is a living legend that was born and raised in Louisville. While you are in town, honor the legacy of Ali by taking a tour of the center, which is right in historic downtown.
PORTLAND
Shopping: Compound Gallery & Store – 107 Northwest 5th Ave., Portland, OR 97209
A combination sneaker and art boutique, the friendly staff at Compound know their stuff. Besides the dope collection of sneakers and clothing, Compound has a vast number of interesting books and quirky toys.
Grubbing: Hedge House – 3412 SE Division Street, Portland, OR 97202
Serving only Lompoc beers, the Hedge House has a wonderful patio area where you can drink the night away and breath in fresh Oregon air. Their French Dip is sure to satisfy, as it goes beyond the standard beef and au jus with the addition of horseradish, blue cheese crumbles and caramelized onions
Sight Seeing: Micro Brewery Tour
Portland is also referred to as “Beervana” due to the high number of microbreweries in the area. Many of them have free tours, such as: Widmer, Portland Brewing, Bridgeport Brewing, and McMenamins Edgefield.
PITTSBURGH
Shopping: Decade – 1407 E. Carson Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15203
Decade carries popular street wear brands, like WeSC, as well as local Pittsburgh designers. They also carry women’s clothing so if you are travelling with your significant other she can take advantage of the store’s unique collection as well.
Grubbing: Primanti Brothers – Various locations
Sure it’s a local chain but it is also a Pittsburgh institution dating back to the 1930s. The local favorite is the cheese steak but the corned beef also gets rave reviews.
Sight Seeing: Andy Warhol Museum – 117 Sandusky Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15213
The Warhol is one of the four Carnegie Museums of Pittsburgh and houses the majority of Andy Warhol‘s work. The museum is seven floors of pop art devoted to the Pittsburgh native.
OMAHA
Shopping: Denim Saloon – 4914 Underwood Ave., Omaha, NE 68104
Denim Saloon is “Omaha’s premier denim bar.” If you scoff at the thought of paying more than $50 dollars for a pair of jeans know this- there is nothing like owning a pair of high quality denim. Carrying some of the higher end denim lines, Denim Saloon’s knowledgeable staff will help you find your perfect fit and finish.
Grubbing: Hartland BBQ – 5402 NW Radial Hwy, Omaha, NE 68104
You can get a double meat sandwich at Hartland- a mixture of brisket, chicken or pork. Enough said.
Sight Seeing: Old Market District – Downtown Omaha bordered by South 10th St
The Old Market District in Omaha retains its historic features with streets paved in brick and many original warehouses- although they are now mainly lofts. The neighborhood has shopping, restaurants and a number of art galleries where you can pass the time before the games start.
What places will you be hitting up?
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