After the World Series I headed back to Toronto for the Penguins – Leafs game on Saturday night. This being the first game back to Toronto for Phil Kessel I expected more of an aggressive crowd. It was not to be. The arena was really subdued and not at all full. Pens pulled away early and ended up beating the Leafs 4-0.

Hockey Hall of Fame
After getting into town Julie and I went over to the Hockey Hall of Fame (HHOF). The HHOF is setup into three basic sections. The display cases which we believe rotate out yearly with game used memorabilia and various exists, the coolest being the defunct team sweaters. Then there is a large interactive section where one can play goalie or take shots on goal. Finally there is the Grand Hall which holds all of the members as well as the trophies including the ‘Presentation’ Stanley Cup. There were no real crowds and you could more or less spend as much time as you wanted with the Stanley Cup. Most interesting parts of the Cup: 2004 lockout and the 1917 winners: Seattle over Montreal.

Bellwood Brewery Before the game we headed over to the Bellwoods neighborhood and stopped by the Bellwoods Brewery. Decent beer selection.

BQM
We grabbed some sandwiches next door at the BQM (Beer Quality Meats).

With the Mets sweeping the Cubs in the NLCS Julie and I decided we’d work around our schedules and at least make it to the first World Series game at Citi Field. Considering how the day went it was well worth the logistical challenges. The Mets won Game Three against the Kansas City Royals 9-3.
Before the Game

Julie and I met at Laguardia and then after dropping off our bags and grabbing a slice of pizza in Astoria we headed over to Astoria Bier and Cheese for a couple of drinks. Astoria Bier and Cheese is a grocery/bar where they have about 10 taps and then coolers full of bottles and cans that can be drank on premises.
Fraunces Tavern
After leaving Astoria we headed to Fraunces Tavern in Lower Manhattan for some drinks before heading to the game. Fraunces Tavern is a national historic landmark that played a prominent role in pre-Revolution, American Revolution and post-Revolution history, serving as a headquarters for George Washington, a venue for peace negotiations with the British, and housing federal offices in the Early Republic. Most importantly it is the location of General Washington’s farewell address to his officers:

With a heart full of love and gratitude, I now take leave of you. I most devoutly wish that your latter days may be as prosperous and happy as your former ones have been glorious and honorable.”

Amazin’ Mets Express

Julie managed to score tickets on the Amazin’ Mets Express water taxi that would take us from Manhattan to Citi Field in Flushing, Queens. Open bar; more details here.

All and all a great experience. Worth the trip.