Final 4 Resources and Directions

It’s almost time to hit the road to Fenton and the AB Soccer Complex for the Final Four this weekend. Here are a few tips on food, coffee and parking for those who may not be familiar with the area.

First and foremost, give yourself plenty of time. There’s a couple of reasons for this. These events go by fast and you’re going to want to enjoy it. Why try and rush. Experience it all.

The other reason is because parking and other resources are in short supply in Fenton. It has taken 30 minutes to get out of the parking lot following the Class 1 & 2 games in the past, and the crowds then are small compared to what we can expect this weekend. This is a great experience as all of St Louis comes out to see the best soccer available this season.

For that reason, I’d suggest getting there as early as possible and take in some of the earlier games. Do some scouting, see some quality players and get a parking spot that may actually be in the complex. If you want a commemorative t-shirt, do it early. They usually run out, except for the smallest size. And pack as if you are headed for the North fields at Lake Country. Based in a valley along a river, it can get quite a bit colder then the general forecast might indicate.

Directions: From Springfield, you are looking for exit 274B, Mraz Lane. You’ll go under the overpass and be able to pull onto the outer road. Follow it down to the end where it will bend to the right and end at Rudder Road. Turn left and follow it around to where it ends at Yarnell Road. Turn left and go under I-44 and follow the road around to the Soccer Complex. If you miss the exit, the next best bet is continue on to exit 277B (Lindbergh). You’ll be able to do a U-turn safely and easily and staying in the entrance lane will take you directly to the Soccer Park exit for West-bound traffic on I-44.

Parking is $2 or $3 so bring singles. If you see cars parked along the road on Rudder, that means the lot is already full. I’d pull a U-turn and find a good spot on the side of the road that you’ll be able to get out of quickly then afterwards. I’ve never seen anyone ticketed and the walk isn’t too bad. You have to go all the way to the parking lot entrance (no back way in) but at least they’ve moved the ticket booths closer to that end now and you’ll be in the complex.

Google Map

The closest source of espresso and coffee I found, besides the fast food joints including the formerly closest-to-Springfield Krispy Kreme, is along Rudder Road after you get off I-44. There’s a coffee shack, hours appear to be morning only however. There is a Starbuck’s at Hwy 141 & I-44, which is one exit West of the one you take for the Soccer Park. The address is 922 South Meramec Station Rd, the phone is 636-825-0369.

I’d also recommend the Mexican Restaurant that shares a parking lot with the coffee shack, La Plaza, when you exit at Mraz Road. The food is fresh and tasty and the margarita’s earned a B (Maria’s Traditionals are A’s).

Another place I haven’t tried yet but have heard good things about is JJ Twig’s Pizza. Located North of the AB Soccer Complex, hop on I-44 East, go North on I-270 and then Exit Dougherty Ferry (first intersection North of I-44) and go west to Big Bend. Here’s the link – http://www.jjtwigsstl.com/

If you have more time, my suggestion would be to go a little farther East on I-44. The first exit after I-270 is Lindbergh. Exit 277B, turn left and there are several national chains including Chili’s and Texas Road House. Alternately, head North 1.25 miles to downtown Kirkwood. Before the Amtrak station is Kaldi’s (with free wireless and my espresso of choice in Missouri) as well as a Ben & Jerry’s and Bar Louie (a Chicago import you can also find at Branson Landing now). A block north of the RR tracks is Duffy’s Pizza and Amici’s Italian Restaurant, both places I’ve enjoyed several times. Alternately, turn left on Jefferson, go 1/2 a block and Mike Duffy’s Bar & Grill offers a great menu as well.

Want to do a little bit of sightseeing without downtown hassles? Consider the St Louis Soccer Hall of Fame. It’s located within the Midwest Soccer Academy at 5247 Fyler Avenue (phone 314-781-8493). The Botanical Gardens are at I-44 and Hampton, the HOF is just South of there – get off at the Jamieson exit, turn right (S) and go one block to the 4 way stop sign, then turn left onto Fyler (E) and about 7 blocks.

There you have it. Have a great time and Go Irish! Go Falcons! Go Stars!

ESPN AM1380 has broadcast the Final’s in the past. If you have a portable radio, bring it just in case.