College World Series a Grand Slam for June

	Batter Up

I've been watching the College Baseball World Series on TV since I don't know when, and every time I say to myself, "Next year I really should go."

Well, next year turned out to be this past week as I finally ventured to Rosenblatt Stadium in Omaha, Neb.

For a quick history lesson, the College World Series has been played since 1948, moving to Omaha in 1950. Its popularity has surged in the last decade, though, as ESPN coverage has increased awareness.

Travel Tips

Omaha's airport is small, but not far from where the action is at Rosenblatt Stadium. But if you're just going for the CWS, I would suggest not renting a car.

In an effort to make things as tourist-friendly as possible, Omaha runs an extensive network of buses to the stadium from all over town -- a welcome alternative to the long walk from remote parking lots.

The shuttles drop you off right at the front gate and then pick you up for the return trip 30 minutes after the game ends.

Rosenblatt Stadium itself is the home of the Omaha Royals (partially owned by Warren Buffett), but every June it proudly hosts the CWS. As it is a minor-league stadium, it's much smaller (23,145 fans capacity) than major league parks: Every seat feels very close to the action.

The weather at CWS can be very hot and humid, although it was very pleasant when I was there. Try to have cash on hand for the stadium, as well -- not all of the concessions accept plastic and the line for the ATM can be endless.

The CWS is a great family event. Alcohol is prohibited in the stadium, which translates into a less rowdy, less profane and generally much friendlier crowd than at a major league game -- no pizza throwing incidents here.

If you do attend a few games, you are bound to see a former luminary whose baseball card you had as a kid. This year, for me, that was former Dodger great Steve Garvey, who was very gracious to all his fans.