Where to eat, keep and have enjoyable in Pac-12 land

Before UCLA and USC go away the Pac-12 in 2024, followers have an opportunity to hit the street and take a look at the convention’s finest outposts.

Our panel of 4 faculty sports activities writers have traversed Pac-12 nation for years, arriving early and leaving late. They explored the Arizona desert, mountains of Utah and Colorado and huge panorama alongside the Pacific coast.

We’ve ranked each Pac-12 metropolis and shared hidden gems that assist convert them from fast game-day getaways to final street journey weekends.

We omitted the Los Angeles faculties from our rankings as a result of it’s too troublesome to judge the place we dwell as a street journey. However, we included L.A. suggestions in our information in case you’re internet hosting out of city guests or planning a go to.

Will Pacific Northwest gem Seattle rank No. 1 or will the elite mountain city of Boulder, Colo., take the highest spot? And how a lot will one sports activities author’s love of a Washington vineyard skew our rankings?

Scroll down to search out out or observe our Ultimate Pac-12 Tour Guide in map form.

Meet the Pac-12 tour guides:

Ben Bolch

Ben Bolch has traveled frequently within the Pac-12 footprint because it was the Pac-10, beginning in 2005 as an understudy on the UCLA football beat to late, nice Times sportswriter Lonnie White. Bolch later turned the primary author on document to covet journeys to Spokane whereas serving a three-season sentence — er, stint — on USC basketball. Covering UCLA soccer and basketball because the full-time beat author since 2016 has allowed him to additional domesticate his appreciation of each wine area close to a Pac-12 faculty. If you discover one inside a day’s drive of Tucson, please let him know.

J. Brady McCollough

Brady McCollough was born in Texas, grew up in Louisiana, completed highschool in Buffalo, N.Y., went to varsity at Michigan and has labored as a sports activities reporter in Kansas City, Pittsburgh and now Los Angeles. In quick, he’s a ramblin’ man. Leaning totally into his nomadic status, he not too long ago visited his fiftieth state — Alaska — earlier than turning 40. So, whereas solely spending one season having fun with the Pac-12 journey circuit because the Times’ USC beat author in 2018-19, he prides himself on figuring out learn how to maximize any vacation spot’s potential.

Ryan Kartje

Ryan Kartje grew up within the coronary heart of Big Ten nation, however has referred to as the Pac-12 house since 2012, when he moved to Los Angeles to cowl UCLA for the Orange County Register. He has achieved his finest to hit each brewery within the Pac-12 footprint since, however solely only in the near past acquired again on the street as USC beat author for The Times. A disciple of tasting menus and avenue carts alike, meals would be the solely factor he loves greater than soccer.

Thuc Nhi Nguyen

Thuc Nhi Nguyen is born and raised within the Pac-12. A Seattle native, she traveled the Pac-12 as a pupil reporter at Washington, the UCLA beat reporter for the Southern California News Group and now as a school reporter for The Times. The finest place to eat within the convention is her mother’s kitchen, however there are many nice second-place choices on this listing too.

Ben’s Pac-12 cities ranked so as of desire

Students share a common area at the University of Colorado.

Boulder, Colo. (Colorado)
Pullman, Wash. (Washington State)*
Seattle (Washington)
Eugene, Ore. (Oregon)
Berkeley (California)
Palo Alto (Stanford)
Corvallis, Ore. (Oregon State)
Tempe, Ariz. (Arizona State)
Salt Lake City (Utah)
Tucson (Arizona)

Full disclosure: No. 2 on this listing isn’t a typo. As he explains beneath in our information, Ben loves a vineyard comparatively near Pullman and it prompted him to award Washington State a surprisingly excessive rating.

Brady’s Pac-12 cities ranked

Blue skies begin to appear over downtown Seattle and Elliott Bay.

Seattle (Washington)
Boulder, Colo. (Colorado)
Salt Lake City (Utah)
Eugene, Ore. (Oregon)
Corvallis, Ore. (Oregon State
Berkeley (California)
Tempe, Ariz. (Arizona State)
Tucson (Arizona)
Palo Alto (Stanford)
Pullman, Wash. (Washington State)*

Full disclosure: Brady has not visited Pullman but, however he was not swayed by Ben’s love of a vineyard close to Pullman.

Ryan’s Pac-12 cities ranked

Seattle (Washington)
Boulder, Colo. (Colorado)
Berkeley (California)
Palo Alto (Stanford)
Eugene, Ore. (Oregon)
Corvallis, Ore. (Oregon State)
Salt Lake City (Utah)
Tempe, Ariz. (Arizona State)
Pullman, Wash. (Washington State)
Tucson (Arizona)

Thuc Nhi’s Pac-12 cities ranked

A pedestrian walks on the campus at Stanford University.

Seattle (Washington)
Boulder, Colo. (Colorado
Palo Alto (Stanford)
Berkeley (California)
Salt Lake City (Utah)
Eugene, Ore. (Oregon)
Corvallis, Ore. (Oregon State)
Pullman, Wash. (Washington State)
Tempe, Ariz. (Arizona State)
Tucson (Arizona)

The ultimate tally …

Seattle (Washington)
Boulder, Colo. (Colorado)
Berkeley (California)
Eugene, Ore. (Oregon)
Palo Alto (Stanford)
Corvallis, Ore. (Oregon State)
Salt Lake City (Utah)
Pullman, Wash. (Washington State)
Tempe, Ariz. (Arizona State)
Tucson (Arizona)

Arizona

Ease of getting there:

Getting more durable. Nonstop flights into Tucson have gotten more and more uncommon, which means you’ll both have to attach elsewhere or fly the handful of airways that also provide this route. —Ben Bolch

Where to remain:

JW Marriott Tucson Starr Pass Resort & Spa. Assuming you will get a good fee, that is definitely worth the considerably prolonged drive into city given the plush rooms and sprawling grounds nestled comfortably into picturesque hillsides. Just preserve an eye fixed out for snakes and scorpions whereas strolling open air. —Ben Bolch

Stadium skinny:

Arizona's opening kick off to Washington State at Arizona Stadium.

It’s in all probability going to be a “Pac-12 After Dark” affair given the Pac-12’s penchant for scheduling evening video games at Arizona Stadium to beat the desert warmth, which means nearly something can occur (besides, in current seasons, a Wildcats win). —Ben Bolch

Best eats:

You’ll seemingly be in for an evening recreation within the desert, which suggests you’ll have time for pre-game brunch. Prep & Pastry, which has two areas in Tucson has all of the requirements and a rotating collection of contemporary baked items on daily basis. —Thuc Nhi Nguyen

For extra suggestions, take a look at our aggregated map of Pac-12 cities suggestions.

Local intel:

Many eating places have staked the declare that they invented the chimichanga, every with the same story of by chance dropping a burrito within the fryer. But El Charro Cafe might have essentially the most compelling case. It’s the nation’s oldest Mexican restaurant, having opened in Tucson in 1922. The restaurant has been operated by the identical household ever since, and so they’re nonetheless serving a large assortment of chimichangas. —Ryan Kartje

For extra suggestions, take a look at our aggregated map of Pac-12 cities suggestions.

Best facet journey:

Pima Air & Space Museum. Aviation buffs will love the fleet of practically 400 plane “preserved” within the desert warmth, together with a modified Boeing 707 that got here to be referred to as “Freedom One” after transporting the American hostages held in Iran again house in 1981. —Ben Bolch

Arizona State

Ease of getting there:

Easy peasy. It’s only a quick Uber experience from Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport. —Ben Bolch
A straight shot east of L.A. on the ten, Tempe is without doubt one of the most handy locations for Southern California faculty soccer followers to discover the Pac-12 by aircraft or street journey. —Thuc Nhi Nguyen
There’s no smoother journey within the convention. No must lease a automobile contemplating how shut the airport is to campus and the way straightforward it’s to get a rideshare on the town. —Ryan Kartje

Where to remain:

Westin Tempe. Aside from the oddity of this lodge being out of shampoo throughout a current keep (sure, actually), it’s a gleaming star of the Marriott chain. Rooms are trendy and spacious (upgrades can embrace two-bathroom suites) and also you’re inside straightforward strolling distance of Sun Devil Stadium. Just ensure that to convey additional shampoo. —Ben Bolch

For extra suggestions, take a look at our aggregated map of Pac-12 cities suggestions.

Stadium skinny:

Sun Devil Stadium starts to fill up with fans.

It’s in all probability going to be unbearably scorching (you’re within the desert, in any case), however the throng of Arizona State college students that’s a continuing makes for a energetic scene bordering on boisterous if the Sun Devils are successful. —Ben Bolch
Carved out of the desert hills, Sun Devil Stadium actually captures the essence of Arizona. But as a school soccer stadium, there’s not a lot extraordinary about it. (Unless you depend the fox that ran onto the field throughout final season’s Arizona State-USC recreation.) —Ryan Kartje

Best eats:

Cibo places the “house” in home made Italian. The downtown Phoenix restaurant serves diners in a restored bungalow you possibly can take pleasure in a home-cooked meal in a front room with none dishes. —Thuc Nhi Nguyen

For extra suggestions, take a look at our aggregated map of Pac-12 cities suggestions.

Local intel:

Hoping to essentially channel your faculty years? There are few locations higher for that within the Pac-12 than Mill Avenue, the nucleus of Tempe’s faculty nightlife, the place loud music is blasting and low cost properly drinks are flowing. —Ryan Kartje

For extra suggestions, take a look at our aggregated map of Pac-12 cities suggestions.

Best facet journey:

The Grand Canyon National Park is covered in the morning sunlight.

Grand Canyon National Park is a four-hour drive from Tempe. We suggest spending an evening in Flagstaff as a part of the journey. —J. Brady McCollough

For extra suggestions, take a look at our aggregated map of Pac-12 cities suggestions.

California

Ease of getting there:

A snap of the fingers. The Oakland and San Francisco airports are each quick drives away, or if you wish to road-trip it you could be there in six hours from Los Angeles. —Ben Bolch
Easy peasy. A flight into Oakland places you in the most effective place to drive to Berkeley, however the journey from San Francisco isn’t far both. Just notice the westbound toll over the Bay Bridge. —Thuc Nhi Nguyen
Thuc Nhi ought to have a whole part of this information about avoiding tolls! —J. Brady McCollough
San Francisco is a nightmare for parking, and Berkeley isn’t significantly better. So should you’re keen to courageous public transportation, Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) picks up SFO and has a cease in downtown Berkeley, lower than a mile from the soccer stadium. That journey will take an hour, which may really be sooner than renting a automobile and sitting in visitors. —Ryan Kartje

Where to remain:

Graduate Berkeley. Formerly referred to as the Durant, this boutique lodge a block from campus is hopping on recreation days. And because the title implies, look forward to finding a poster of Dustin Hoffman from “The Graduate” in your room. —Ben Bolch

For extra suggestions, take a look at our aggregated map of Pac-12 cities suggestions.

Stadium skinny:

Empty seats are viewed at California Memorial Stadium.

A Memorial Stadium modernization accomplished in 2012 couldn’t improve the product on the sector. The Golden Bears have logged simply 4 successful seasons—none with greater than eight victories—since 2010, which means that those that watch video games totally free on the hill overlooking the jap facet of the stadium are paying market worth. —Ben Bolch
Forget your recreation day exercise in Berkeley as a result of the lengthy stroll up the hill to Cal’s Memorial Stadium will maintain your train wants. Brace your self for the cannon that fires after every Cal rating. Fortunately as somebody who is well startled, the cannon’s use has been a uncommon prevalence throughout Justin Wilcox’s offensively challenged tenure. —Thuc Nhi Nguyen
All pictures at Cal apart, full respect to any soccer stadium that truly sits proper in the midst of its campus. —Ryan Kartje

Best eats:

Zachary’s Chicago Pizza (the College Avenue location). This stuff is legit, with sufficient gooey goodness to fill you up after a slice or two. That means you will get your stuffed pizza repair with out the four-hour flight wanted for a visit to Gino’s East or Giordano’s in Chicago. —Ben Bolch

For extra suggestions, take a look at our aggregated map of Pac-12 cities suggestions.

Local intel:

To go to one of many oldest bars in California, go to Heinold’s First and Last Chance Saloon at Jack London Square in Oakland. —J. Brady McCollough

For extra suggestions, take a look at our aggregated map of Pac-12 cities suggestions.

Best facet journey:

Forests, mountains and the occasional bear, oh my. Yosemite National Park is three hours east of Berkeley and ideal for a scenic lunch spot or an outdoorsy weekend. —Thuc Nhi Nguyen

For extra suggestions, take a look at our aggregated map of Pac-12 cities suggestions.

Colorado

Ease of getting there:

Fairly painless. Denver International Airport is about 45 minutes from Folsom Field, and the mountainous panorama turns into more and more beautiful on the drive as you close to Boulder. —Ben Bolch
Finding nonstop flights to Denver is a cinch, however plan for a choice about toll roads in your drive from the airport to Boulder. The toll street path takes about 45 minutes, shaving about 10-20 minutes off the time from different routes. —Thuc Nhi Nguyen
Hope you’re not in a rush upon touchdown in Denver. Not solely is the airport complicated, it’s smack dab in the midst of nowhere, making a rental automobile mainly a should should you don’t plan to pay exorbitant rideshare prices. Just attending to the rental automobile counters requires a very prolonged shuttle experience. —Ryan Kartje

Where to remain:

Hotel Clio, Cherry Creek. Sure, there are a lot nearer (and cheaper) lodge choices, together with the Renaissance Boulder Flatiron in Broomfield, only a quick drive from Boulder, however anybody who enjoys high-end eating and procuring received’t need to miss Cherry Creek’s plentiful boutiques and eating places. —Ben Bolch

For extra suggestions, take a look at our aggregated map of Pac-12 cities suggestions.

Stadium skinny:

Handlers guide Colorado mascot Ralphie VI on ceremonial run.

Watching a buffalo stampede throughout the sector earlier than the sport is nice enjoyable. Unfortunately for the locals, the Buffaloes in uniform haven’t been constantly good since Gary Barnett departed in 2005, which means there’s not often any risk to close by noise ordinances. —Ben Bolch
Ralphie guidelines at Folsom Field, however don’t sleep on the animated video that includes “South Park” star Cartman used to introduce everybody’s favourite faculty mascot. —Thuc Nhi Nguyen
Folsom Field is low-key considered one of faculty soccer’s finest locations to observe a recreation. It’s charming, intimate and has the Flatirons as a backdrop. Also, Colorado’s colours are high notch should you’re into good uniforms. —J. Brady McCollough
OK, I’m not one to get swept away by custom … however Ralphie’s pregame run is objectively one of many coolest traditions in faculty soccer. Throw within the mountain backdrop and the superb native beers on faucet on the stadium beer backyard, and also you’ve acquired possibly essentially the most underrated gameday expertise within the convention … even when the crew hasn’t lived as much as that very same commonplace shortly. —Ryan Kartje

Best eats:

Barolo Grill, Denver. How does chilled jumbo lump crab with citrus crema adopted by house-made spaghetti with wild boar ragu adopted by Barolo-braised duck sound? Those are only a few of the seasonal objects on the tantalizing four-course tasting menu. At $89 per particular person (with non-obligatory $55 wine pairing), it will not be one thing you possibly can placed on an expense account, but it surely’s definitely worth the splurge. —Ben Bolch

For extra suggestions, take a look at our aggregated map of Pac-12 cities suggestions.

Local intel:

If you like to get caught up within the pupil taste, you need to take a look at the underground Sundown Saloon off the Pearl Street Mall. —J. Brady McCollough

For extra suggestions, take a look at our aggregated map of Pac-12 cities suggestions.

Best facet journey:

The sun breaks through the clouds to highlight the summit of Pikes Peak.

There are 25 peaks of 14,000 ft or greater within the Rocky Mountains, and considered one of them is a brief drive away. It takes a full day to summit Pikes Peak by foot, however solely an hour or two in your automobile. The beautiful view is properly definitely worth the drive. Take it gradual on the winding street to the highest – restricted guardrails! – and provides your self sufficient time to seize a donut on the new Visitor’s Center on the summit. —Ryan Kartje

For extra suggestions, take a look at our aggregated map of Pac-12 cities suggestions.

Oregon

Ease of getting there:

Breezy. There are direct flights from Los Angeles International Airport into Eugene, or you possibly can fly into Portland and make the two-hour drive down Interstate 5 (and sure, Bill Walton, you will discover there actually are truck stops within the Pac-12 footprint). —Ben Bolch
The two-hour drive to/from Portland appears like a lifetime after a flight or a protracted soccer recreation, so do your self a favor and fly into the Eugene airport. It additionally saves you from the awkward second on the gasoline station while you notice that drivers don’t pump their very own gasoline in Oregon and also you simply moonwalk again into your seat. —Thuc Nhi Nguyen

Where to remain:

Valley River Inn. As the title implies, the lodge is located alongside a river (the Willamette) and includes a rustic foyer with an inviting fire. Even although the place has a dated really feel, its heat and comfortable foyer bar (SweetWaters on the River) make it such a coveted spot that each the UCLA and USC basketball groups used to remain right here concurrently below earlier coaches. (Highlights included Kevin O’Neill shopping for rounds of drinks on the foyer bar and the famously inflexible Ben Howland loosening up with reporters throughout off-the-record fireplace chats.) —Ben Bolch

Stadium skinny:

The Oregon Marching Band displays a giant United States Flag on the field at Autzen Stadium.

You may discover irony within the P.A. announcer’s pregame assertion that “It by no means rains in Autzen Stadium” (that is dreary Oregon, proper?), however the message stays {that a} enjoyable time is normally in retailer amid the fixed din. It helps that the Ducks have been a Pac-12 title contender most years since Mike Bellotti was coach. —Ben Bolch
There are few scenes extra lovely in Pac-12 soccer than the view from atop Autzen Stadium whereas the leaves are altering colours within the fall. —Ryan Kartje
My senior yr at Michigan, the Wolverines traveled to Autzen with a top-five rating and nationwide championship aspirations. That resulted in smash, as most journeys to Eugene have this millennium. I wrote then, “Autzen Stadium is the place nice groups go to die. R.I.P. Michigan 2003.” I used to be blown away by the noise that 60,000 followers may make and nonetheless am. A Ducks fan approached me about utilizing the road on a T-shirt, however I don’t assume it ever occurred sadly. —J. Brady McCollough

Best eats:

Rogue is without doubt one of the finest breweries within the state, and so they have a location in Eugene that’s a should go to for beer drinkers. —J. Brady McCollough

For extra suggestions, take a look at our aggregated map of Pac-12 cities suggestions.

Local intel:

Runners ought to take a look at Pre’s trail, named for the legendary Oregon distance runner Steve Prefontaine. Fans of Pre may nonetheless go to Pre’s rock, the positioning of the tragic automobile accident that prematurely ended his life. —J. Brady McCollough

For extra suggestions, take a look at our aggregated map of Pac-12 cities suggestions.

Best facet journey:

The vineyards at Cathedral Ridge Winery in Hood River, Ore.

The Hood River Fruit Loop. About an hour east of Portland lies one of many gems of the Pacific Northwest. The Fruit Loop is a 35-mile scenic drive by the splendor of the Hood River Valley, crammed with fruit stands, wineries, breweries and fields of gorgeous flowers. Set apart a day to casually wander and remember to take loads of footage of Mt. Hood, which towers triumphantly over the surroundings. When you’re completed wandering, cease by Pfriem Family Brewers for a fruit-forward pint to complete your journey. —Ryan Kartje

For extra suggestions, take a look at our aggregated map of Pac-12 cities suggestions.

Oregon State

Ease of getting there:

Fairly straightforward. Fly into close by Eugene (simply don’t inform anybody you’re there to see a Beavers recreation) or make the 90-minute drive from Portland. —Ben Bolch

Where to remain:

If you’re going for game-time comfort, decide the Hilton Garden Inn. It’s so near Reser Stadium that your mattress may as properly be within the stands. —Thuc Nhi Nguyen

For extra suggestions, take a look at our aggregated map of Pac-12 cities suggestions.

Stadium skinny:

Hard to say. In six years because the UCLA beat author, the Bruins haven’t performed in Reser Stadium because of the vagaries of the Pac-12 schedule. The renovations look good, although. —Ben Bolch
Reser has some actual appeal, and that shouldn’t be misplaced with the renovation, attributable to be accomplished in time for the 2023 season. The overhangs on all sides must also make it a fairly loud atmosphere for this system’s continued resurgence below Jonathan Smith. —J. Brady McCollough

Best eats:

The Angry Beaver Grill is without doubt one of the finest campus sports activities bars within the Pac-12, embellished wall to wall with Oregon State memorabilia. Don’t miss it. —J. Brady McCollough

For extra suggestions, take a look at our aggregated map of Pac-12 cities suggestions.

Local intel:

Given that the livelier Eugene is about 45 minutes away, don’t really feel obligated to remain in Corvallis. But those that desire a slower tempo will respect the small-town appeal that may be discovered right here. —Ben Bolch

For extra suggestions, take a look at our aggregated map of Pac-12 cities suggestions.

Best facet journey:

Haystack Rock is seen in the distance from a balcony of The Ocean Lodge.

The Oregon shoreline is value a go to. —J. Brady McCollough

For extra suggestions, take a look at our aggregated map of Pac-12 cities suggestions.

Stanford

Ease of getting there:

Depends. San Jose International Airport is simply minutes away and tremendous handy until you’re a devotee of United Airlines. In that case, you’ll must fly into San Francisco International Airport and make the roughly 45-minute (relying on visitors) drive down Highway 101. —Ben Bolch

No sweat with airport choices in San Francisco and San Jose. And should you’re in for the street journey, think about the scenic route up Route 1 for ocean views and hikes in Big Sur and the Redwoods. —Thuc Nhi Nguyen

Where to remain:

The Nest Hotel. The nearer you will get to Stanford’s campus, the higher, and this contemporary boutique lodge, which is simply three miles away from the stadium, received’t break the financial institution. The lodge wine bar typically even presents complimentary tastings. —Ryan Kartje

For extra suggestions, take a look at our aggregated map of Pac-12 cities suggestions.

Stadium skinny:

Stanford Stadium view during the third quarter of a game between Stanford and Northwestern.

Don’t be stunned if you end up trying round and questioning if this actually is main faculty soccer. High faculty video games usually draw greater crowds and generate extra buzz than the Cardinal, even after a powerful stadium renovation wasted on the Pac-12’s most apathetic fan base. —Ben Bolch
Self-proclaimed “Nerd Nation” takes their research a bit too far as a result of the notoriously small crowds at a Stanford not often will get above a library-approved whisper. But Stanford Stadium is situated on one of the crucial lovely campuses within the nation so take the scenic route while you’re heading to the sport. It’s definitely worth the views. —Thuc Nhi Nguyen
The Stanford band, which professes “to convey funk to the funkless”, is an expertise to behold in all its chaotic glory. —Ryan Kartje

Best eats:

Amber India. Yes, this requires a brief drive to San Jose (or San Francisco, in case you are so inclined to go to that location), however you’ll thank your self the second you’re taking that first chew right into a flaky, succulent vegetable samosa. This upscale Indian joint combines a soothing atmosphere with contemporary, tasty dishes. The Tandoori Kebab Sampler is a divine melding of flavors. —Ben Bolch

For extra suggestions, take a look at our aggregated map of Pac-12 cities suggestions.

Local intel:

Architecture buffs received’t need to miss Frank Lloyd Wright’s Hanna House, designed within the Nineteen Thirties for a Stanford professor and now open to the general public. —Ben Bolch

Best facet journey:

Fort Ord Dunes State Park in Sand City near Monterey.

About 90 minutes south of Palo Alto, Monterey has a type of sea creature roulette whereas whale watching. There are humpbacks, orcas, dolphins, seals and otters within the bay and every journey on the boat brings a special group of animals. —Thuc Nhi Nguyen

For extra suggestions, take a look at our aggregated map of Pac-12 cities suggestions.

UCLA

Ease of getting there:

A little bit of a ache. Burbank Airport is sort of near the Rose Bowl, however routing constraints may make this a troublesome possibility relying on the place you reside and your airline of alternative. If you fly into Los Angeles International Airport, you’re in all probability an hour away, possibly two, relying on visitors. —Ben Bolch
Splitting your journey between campus in Westwood and the stadium in Pasadena isn’t beneficial, should you’re coming from out of city. Unless you propose to spend half of your keep within the automobile. You’ll be happier should you focus your journey on one or the opposite. —Ryan Kartje

Where to remain:

The Langham. This upscale lodge in Pasadena exudes old-world appeal and used to accommodate UCLA’s soccer crew on nights earlier than video games till the Luskin Center was erected on campus. —Ben Bolch

Stadium skinny:

Rose Bowl before a game between UCLA and Fresno State.

The joke is that these tarps overlaying the highest of 1 finish zone may want extending until UCLA can construct some buzz below Chip Kelly. A historic stadium with breathtaking views of the San Gabriel Mountains has been house to record-low crowds in current seasons, however there’s all the time the Rose Bowl recreation! —Ben Bolch
There’s nothing fairly like that view of the San Gabriels at sundown, however the stadium has positively misplaced a few of its luster lately. On the intense facet, the lackluster attendance makes exiting the stadium barely much less nightmarish than regular! —Ryan Kartje
The Rose Bowl is without doubt one of the icons of faculty soccer for a cause however be conscious of which facet you’re sitting on. If you’re on the east facet throughout a day recreation, convey additional sunscreen since you’re instantly within the line of solar hearth. —Thuc Nhi Nguyen

Best eats:

Amigo’s Restaurant and Cantina. Skip the smoke-choked tailgate and head to this homestyle Mexican eatery on Colorado Boulevard in Pasadena for cheese-smothered enchiladas and robust, flavorful margaritas. —Ben Bolch

For extra suggestions, take a look at our aggregated map of Pac-12 cities suggestions.

Local intel:

Near Pasadena in La Canada Flintridge is Descanso Gardens, a phenomenal, enchanting botanical backyard that’s value a go to if staying close to the stadium. —J. Brady McCollough

Best facet journey:

Air Force One 27000 on display at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library.

Ronald Reagan Presidential Library. The historic archives at this Simi Valley museum take a backseat to the Air Force One housed inside three-story home windows. You can board and tour the Boeing 707 that served seven U.S. presidents, together with Richard M. Nixon on his somber flight house to Southern California after his 1974 resignation. —Ben Bolch

USC

Tommy Trojan stands guard over a USC campus.

Ease of getting there:

On a transparent day you’ll have the ability to spot the Coliseum out the proper facet of the aircraft on ultimate method into Los Angeles International Airport, which means you’ll additionally know the fundamentals of learn how to get there. —Ben Bolch

Where to remain:

JW Marriott L.A. Live. This downtown lodge that’s only a few miles from the USC campus additionally resides throughout the road from Crypto.com Arena, permitting you to catch a Lakers or Kings recreation in case your schedule permits. It’s additionally surrounded by eating places and includes a enjoyable foyer bar populated by sportswriters after deadline. —Ben Bolch

Stadium skinny:

USC football players enter the field before a game against BYU at the Coliseum.

When the Trojans are good, the renovated Coliseum can really feel like a cross between a soccer recreation and a frat get together. When the Trojans are unhealthy, it might really feel like an emcee acting at an empty bar. —Ben Bolch
Lincoln Riley’s hire will hopefully re-energize the Trojan fan base sufficient to replenish the Coliseum once more so the gang noise can a minimum of drown out the unending loop of the USC battle music that’s assured to get caught in your head after attending a recreation. —Thuc Nhi Nguyen
$315 million value of renovations actually helped clean up an getting old stadium that had seen higher days, however the ambiance may nonetheless use some work. Tailgating continues to be hamstrung. Parking continues to be irritating. These are issues followers will in all probability be fast to neglect as soon as the crew begins successful once more. —Ryan Kartje
When are they placing Reggie Bush’s No. 5 again with the opposite Heisman-winning jerseys ultimately zone? —J. Brady McCollough

Best eats:

Bestia is a can’t-miss dinner in downtown L.A., the place you should get the Peruvian scallop crudo which modifications elements relying on the season. —Ryan Kartje

For extra suggestions, take a look at our aggregated map of Pac-12 cities suggestions.

Local intel:

Skip the overpriced parking hawked by opportunistic neighbors ($50 for a spot in some random dude’s driveway? Are you kidding?) and take the Metro’s Expo Line, making the quick stroll from the Expo Park/USC or Expo/Vermont stations. —Ben Bolch

For extra suggestions, take a look at our aggregated map of Pac-12 cities suggestions.

Best facet journey:

Still hungry? Keep driving up the PCH to Ventura County and have some fried fish platters at Neptune’s Net. —J. Brady McCollough

For extra suggestions, take a look at our aggregated map of Pac-12 cities suggestions.

Utah

Ease of getting there:

Super handy. You can get right into a cab at Salt Lake International Airport and be inside a lodge foyer downtown in quarter-hour. (In truth, relying in your airline, your stroll from the gate to baggage declare contained in the not too long ago renovated airport could be longer.) —Ben Bolch
A breeze, particularly should you’re amassing Delta miles. Salt Lake City is the biggest Delta hub west of the Mississippi. —Thuc Nhi Nguyen

Where to remain:

Marriott City Center. We most popular this lodge’s heat appeal previous to a current renovation that resulted in sterile rooms, but it surely’s nonetheless the most effective downtown spot, inside strolling distance of a slew of eating places and only a quick Uber experience from Rice-Eccles Stadium. —Ben Bolch

Stadium skinny:

Fans at Rice-Eccles Stadium wait for the start of a game.

What could be essentially the most devoted followers within the Pac-12 can get boisterous, making you’re feeling such as you’re watching a recreation someplace twice the dimensions of this 51,444-seat stadium. Remember to decorate warmly until it’s September. —Ben Bolch
Rice-Eccles Stadium now rivals Oregon’s Autzen because the hardest place to win a street recreation within the convention. —J. Brady McCollough

Best eats:

Red Iguana is a Salt Lake City mainstay. Its Mexican meals is so common that it needed to increase to a second location. —Thuc Nhi Nguyen

For extra suggestions, take a look at our aggregated map of Pac-12 cities suggestions.

Local intel:

Staying on the Marriott City Center comes with the bonus of an adjoining outside ice-skating rink that’s open in winter months and ideal for people-watching should you don’t need to lace up some skates. —Ben Bolch

For extra suggestions, take a look at our aggregated map of Pac-12 cities suggestions.

Best facet journey:

Zion National Park near Springdale, Utah.

It’s an formidable facet journey should you’re already in Salt Lake City, however should you can plan a cease on the best way at Zion National Park, it could be properly value your time. The Narrows and Angel’s Landing are two of essentially the most thrilling hikes America has to supply. —Ryan Kartje

For extra suggestions, take a look at our aggregated map of Pac-12 cities suggestions.

Washington

Ease of getting there:

Straightforward stuff. It’s lower than a half hour from Seattle-Tacoma International Airport to Husky Stadium through Interstate 5 and Montlake Boulevard. —Ben Bolch
The hardest factor about touring by Seattle is the safety traces at SeaTac airport, which might transfer slowly and get monstrously lengthy. But when you land, public transportation is a good way to get round Seattle. The mild rail will take you from the airport to the UW campus. —Thuc Nhi Nguyen
Do your self a favor and ensure to look out the window as you method Seattle and discover the fantastic Mount Rainier peak amid the cloud cowl. —J. Brady McCollough

Where to remain:

The Ace Hotel chain excels at hipster vibes and the place higher to partake in that than Seattle? Also, the worth shouldn’t be too astronomic for the worth. —J. Brady McCollough

For extra suggestions, take a look at our aggregated map of Pac-12 cities suggestions.

Stadium skinny:

Washington plays Stanford at Husky Stadium.

With its panoramic views of Union Bay and the adjoining campus, Husky Stadium might be the one Pac-12 venue that may problem the Rose Bowl for consideration because the convention’s most scenic. As a bonus, large overhangs defend followers from moist climate that’s more likely to blanket the realm tighter than a Don James protection. —Ben Bolch
As picturesque because it will get, Husky Stadium is without doubt one of the premier venues within the nation, not to mention the convention. Follow the Pacific Northwest custom of dressing in layers as a result of whereas the stadium’s place on the sting of Lake Washington offers idyllic views, it might rapidly really feel such as you’re watching a recreation in a wind tunnel. —Thuc Nhi Nguyen
Boatgating! The wind can get frigid by there. —Ryan Kartje
Husky Stadium is excessive on my listing of venues I must test off my listing. —J. Brady McCollough

Best eats:

Pike Place Market is a vacationer entice, however a cease at Piroshky Piroshky makes the crowds value it. Grab one of many candy or savory choices from the famed Russian bakery and watch the fish fly. —Thuc Nhi Nguyen

For extra suggestions, take a look at our aggregated map of Pac-12 cities suggestions.

Local intel:

Hear me out: Cream cheese on a scorching canine. The Seattle dog, which is historically served with cream cheese and sauteed onions, is an underrated meals staple of the town. —Thuc Nhi Nguyen

For extra suggestions, take a look at our aggregated map of Pac-12 cities suggestions.

Best facet journey:

An orca whale breaches in view of Mount Baker in the Salish Sea in the San Juan Islands, Wash.

The San Juan Islands are a three-hour drive away, however properly value it should you’re in any respect fascinated about whale watching. There’s no place higher in the world to see Orcas within the wild. Resident orcas dwell within the space year-round; although, it’s finest to see them between March and October. —Ryan Kartje

Washington State

Ease of getting there:

Depends in your stage of daredeviltry. The Pullman-Moscow Regional Airport is a brief drive from Washington State’s campus, however you’ll want to attach in Seattle and be comfy flying in a prop aircraft that seats fewer folks than your native Starbucks. A extra extremely beneficial route is flying by Spokane (although this additionally might require a connection) to be able to keep on a jet and benefit from the comforts of Spokane, a 90-minute drive from Pullman. Just watch out for the dreaded velocity entice in Colfax, to not point out blinding partitions of fog and snow drifts on U.S. Route 195 throughout winter. —Ben Bolch
Get prepared for an journey. You can land in Spokane (Alaska and Delta have one direct flight from LAX to Spokane a day, in any other case you’re connecting) and drive 90 minutes south by thick foggy curtains that come down in the course of the winter. Or you possibly can hook up with Pullman by getting on a aircraft with about 50 seats. Some groups even fly into Lewiston, which is 45 minutes away from Pullman throughout the Idaho border. —Thuc Nhi Nguyen
No journey within the Pac-12 evokes extra travel-related panic. Speaking from expertise, the winding hills between Pullman and Spokane are NOT meant to be pushed in a blinding snowstorm. —Ryan Kartje

Where to remain:

Courtyard by Marriott Pullman. Before this lodge not too long ago sprouted roughly a half-mile from Martin Stadium, many touring beat writers schlepped from Spokane or slummed it on the Best Western Plus University Inn in Moscow, Idaho (the one lodge the place I’ve ever scratched my face by turning my head on a pillow). This Courtyard comes with every thing that makes it the business commonplace: foyer bistro and cozy if considerably utilitarian rooms. But the truth that you possibly can stroll to Martin Stadium in quarter-hour makes it a winner. —Ben Bolch

Stadium skinny:

Martin Stadium could be sneaky loud for a 32,952-seat stadium nestled in a metropolis of 33,598 (the place do the opposite 646 folks go on recreation nights?), but it surely’s by no means going to be confused with Michigan Stadium or Beaver Stadium so far as faculty soccer meccas go. —Ben Bolch

Best eats:

For a candy deal with, cease by Ferdinand’s Ice Cream Shoppe, the place college students scoop old school ice cream and promote canned cheese inside strolling distance to Martin Stadium. —Thuc Nhi Nguyen

For extra suggestions, take a look at our aggregated map of Pac-12 cities suggestions.

Local intel:

When in Spokane, take an hour or so to stroll alongside its Riverfront Park in your option to Spokane Falls, a refreshing slice of nature that runs proper by the guts of the town. On your method again are loads of close by choices for a glass of purple, if that’s extra your velocity. —Ryan Kartje

For extra suggestions, take a look at our aggregated map of Pac-12 cities suggestions.

Best facet journey:

Walla Walla wine country. If you ever wished to know what life on Mars appears like, make the 2¼-hour drive to Walla Walla for some wine tasting. (Just don’t count on to get cellphone reception for many of the journey.) Once you arrive, you’ll take pleasure in a few of the finest Syrah within the United States. Recommended tasting stops embrace Reynvaan, Abeja and L’Ecole No. 41, adopted by dinner at Brasserie Four. Call forward for the reservation coverage at every vineyard. —Ben Bolch

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Where to eat, keep and have enjoyable in Pac-12 land

texWineAdmin

Gearspace Rolls into Austin, TX

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Where to eat, keep and have enjoyable in Pac-12 land

Meet the Pac-12 tour guides:

Ben Bolch

J. Brady McCollough

Ryan Kartje

Thuc Nhi Nguyen

Ben’s Pac-12 cities ranked so as of desire

Brady’s Pac-12 cities ranked

Ryan’s Pac-12 cities ranked

Thuc Nhi’s Pac-12 cities ranked

The ultimate tally …

Arizona

Arizona State

California

Colorado

Oregon

Oregon State

Stanford

UCLA

USC

Utah

Washington

Washington State

texWineAdmin

Gearspace Rolls into Austin, TX

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Texas Wine Journal

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