Fan's Guide To LoanMart Field
Orange County doesn't have a minor-league baseball team -- although some people might make that sort of joke about the Angels, who haven't had the best run in recent years. But, you don't have to go very far to get the experience of a minor-league game. The Rancho Cucamonga Quakes is the Class-A affiliate of the Dodgers. If you're out that way, you can take the whole family to experience a game at LoanMart Field
LoanMart Field
8408 Rochester Ave.
Rancho Cucamonga, CA 91730
(909) 481-5000
ranchocucamonga.quakes.milb.com
Cost And Seating
One big difference between a Quakes game and an Angels game is the cost. Tickets for a Quakes game are very reasonable. For example, if you want to sit directly behind home plate, tickets are only $13 in advance ($14 the day of the game), which is almost the same as the cost to park at Angels Stadium. The least expensive seats are only $9. Just think about how hard it is to find anything for less than $10 in southern California.
Another seating option at LoanMart Field is in the Mark Christopher Strike Zone. In this area, you can get a table for four for just $100. You'll find this to be a very comfortable and charming way to watch a game.
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Food And Drink
When it comes to food at LoanMart Field, the first thing you need to know is that you'll find Dodger Dogs here. Yes, that's right. The most beloved hot dog in the Los Angeles area (aside from Pink's) is available at Quakes games. If you think that's good news, try this. You can also get a Sonoran dog here -- one that is wrapped in bacon and topped with pico del gallo, guacamole, sour cream, onion and cilantro. You'll also find all of your other ballpark favorites. In fact, the team offers an all-you-can-eat package, which is perfect for families that have growing children who can't seem to eat enough. With these packages, you can indulge in all the Dodger dogs, nachos, popcorn (available with ranch, peppercorn, or white-cheddar seasoning salt), and cookies you want from 30 minutes before the game until the end of the seventh inning. These packages are for five games, and each package is $135.
In addition to Dodger Dogs, you'll find Mexican favorites like tacos and tortas here. Comfort-food favorites like pulled-pork sandwiches and delicious tri-tip sandwiches can be found in the concourse. Oh, and the Quakes haven't left out people looking for healthier options. You can also find taco salad and a veggie wrap among the foods for sale here.
See Once And Future Dodgers
Another reason to go to a Quakes game is that you never know who you might see play. The team boasts countless players who have gone on to play in the Major Leagues. While it's not the usual order of things, it's not impossible to catch a Dodgers star that is recovering from an injury. In recent years, both Matt Kemp and Clayton Kershaw have played in Rancho Cucamonga as a stop between injury and a return to the Major League.
Granted, the drive to Rancho Cucamonga can be a tough one, especially if you're traveling from south Orange County. However, if you're planning to be in the area, a Quakes game is an enjoyable event for the entire family. Not to mention that the whole family can enjoy the event for a much lower cost than a Major League game.
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Gary Schwind is a freelance writer covering all things Orange County. His work can be found on Examiner.com.