CLEVELAND, Ohio (WOIO) – The Guardians won on opening day, beating the Chicago Cubs 4 to 1, but the economic impact extended well beyond Progressive Field as fans packed into bars and restaurants across downtown Cleveland.
Bars near the stadium and across the city saw increased business as fans chose between staying close to Progressive Field or venturing to other neighborhoods.
The Ohio Mayors Alliance reports bars see a 20% revenue boost on game days in Cleveland and Cincinnati.
Fans choose between crowds and space
East 4th Street, a short walk from Progressive Field, drew large crowds as fans moved between bars.
“All these bars are just so close, bar hop bar to bar and have a good time,” Victoria Nowak said.
The crowd thinned significantly in Ohio City, farther from the stadium.
“I can breathe, I can walk,” Erica Riser said. “East Fourth and the Flats, it’s fun, but downtown is just party party.”
Riser who sat outside of Great Lakes Brewing in Ohio City said she enjoys she knows people at the bar, even on a busy day.
The Flats also attracted fans looking to avoid the shoulder-to-shoulder crowds closer to the stadium.
“Better option than East Fourth, where it’s shoulder to shoulder over there,” Greg Curts said.
The Guardians bring in $221 million a year for Cleveland, while the Cincinnati Reds generate $250 million annually for Cincinnati, according to the Ohio Mayors Alliance.
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