Play Ball! Little League World Series Review

Every August for the past 70 years, the best 16 teams in the world trek to the small town of Williamsport, Pennsylvania to compete for the Little League World Series title. Do you enjoy watching the Little League World Series on TV? It’s even better in-person!

The Experience:

Surprising to some casual fans, the LLWS is FREE! Parking, admission to the game, and the fan entertainment zone is all free. The concessions are extremely reasonable as well. For example, a family of four can purchase hot dogs, french fries, and sodas for approximately $20. Little League and its volunteers work very hard to be affordable and inclusive so that all can enjoy the fun.

The Little League complex is made up of two main venues: Howard J Lamade Stadium (9000 capacity) and Little League Volunteer Stadium (5,000 capacity). Lamade is the main stadium and it can actually hold up to 45,000 spectators because of the large hill that surrounds the outfield. Fans bring their folding chairs and take in the games from the hill.

In addition to the baseball action on the field, the hill actually provides another source of entertainment: cardboard box sliding. Kids scavenge a piece of cardboard and spend hours sliding down the hill. I wouldn’t recommend this activity for adults, but definitely worth bringing some cardboard with you if you have little ones.

Admittedly, the quality of baseball being played is not Major League caliber. There are errors, base running mistakes, and wild pitches. In my opinion, it makes the games more interesting. No lead is ever safe and the momentum shifts inning to inning which keeps fans engaged. The really impressive thing is that these Little Leaguers never give up. Through good and bad, they stick together and fight until the end. It’s fun to watch and a great family event to attend!

LLWS Fun Facts:

• There are 16,000 games played all over the world in 45 days culminating to 16 teams that make it to Williamsport. 8 teams from the USA & 8 International teams.

• Over 50 major league baseball players played in the LLWS, including Jason Varitek, Gary Sheffield, and Todd Frazier.

• Little League Baseball has always been integrated by race since it’s inception. Major League Baseball did not become integrated until 1947.

Other Points of Interest In and Around Williamsport:

World of Little League Museum: Right in Williamsport, this museum hosts 10,000+ visitors per year. A great way to learn about Little League history. Of course, it is kid friendly and very interactive.

Bullfrog Brewery: Also in Williamsport. Great spot for local craft beer, good food, and live music.

Knoebels Park: A one hour drive from Williamsport. Knoebels is one of the oldest amusements parks in the United States and admission/parking is FREE. You pay per ride. Great way to spend the day for kids and adults. This was one of my favorite things we did while we were there. Highly recommended!

Yuengling Brewery – Located about 1.5 hours away in Pottsville, PA. Yuengling is the oldest brewery in the United States and the tour is one of the most unique I’ve ever taken. Adults only! Read my review here.

Hershey Park – 1.5 hours away. Theme park with thrill rides and chocolate. Family friendly and worth checking out!

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