In North America, sport is taken very seriously and there’s a universal willingness to preserve each sport’s individual and unique history, alongside memories of the individuals and teams that made the game special. Halls of fame are the great places to celebrate sports.
Here are a few great places to see during your time in the USA, although the Hockey Hall of Fame is just a short hop over the border into Canada.
– Hockey Hall of Fame
Canada’s largest city and home of the infamous CN Tower, Toronto is host to the Hockey Hall of Fame where you’ll find exhibits, preserved memorabilia and even references to hockey in film history over the years.
When you arrive in Toronto, aim for Union station on the subway and the hall of fame is on Brookfield Place. You’ll see it signposted.
General admission: $18 Canadian For more info: http://www.hhof.com
– International Tennis Hall of Fame
In the North East of the USA is the smallest of the 50 states, Rhode Island andit’s where you’ll find the International Tennis Hall of Fame.
Although the exhibitions and collections are on the inside, this museum boasts stately grounds which you’re at leisure to stroll around and enjoy. The scenery is notable too, enhanced by the 13 manicured grass tennis courts.
In order to get here, you’ll need to travel to the town of Newport, RI from which it’s very easy to get to. The website has detailed instructions.
General admission is $13 but a discount for students is available for $11 For more info: http://www.tennisfame.com
– International Swimming Hall of Fame
Self-styled as the “Mecca and international showplace for swimming…” the International Swimming Hall of Fame is located in sunny Fort Launderdale, Florida.
Notable exhibits include Olympic medal collections of hall-of-famers and the actual starting blocks used by Mark Spitz to win six of his seven 1972 Olympic gold medals. Not to mention a broad collection of uniforms and training equipment both modern and from throughout the decades.
General admission is $8 but a discounted entry rate of $4 is available for students. For more info: http://www.ishof.org
– World Golf Hall of Fame
Staying in Florida, St Augustine is where you’ll find the World Golf Hall of Fame.
This museum plays host to a number of exciting exhibitions, practical challenges, an impressive ‘member locker room’ and an 88ft wall of fame celebrating those who made the game great.
There’s ample provision to enjoy a game of golf while you’re here and accommodation facilities to suit. Getting here is not straightforward if you’re not driving so ensure you plan your trip thoroughly before leaving.
General admission is $19.50 but a discounted entry rate of $10 is available for students. For more info: http://www.worldgolfhalloffame.org