We all know Los Angeles traffic is bad, but traffic getting into Dodger Stadium is even worse. But if you’re lucky enough to be able to commute to Chavez Ravine well ahead of this October’s Dodgers playoff games, you’ll manage to avoid the brunt of the bumper-to-bumper back-up.

But what should you do once you’re up there?

The list below provides some tips on how to spend your time in the surrounding area before the games start. With gates opening two hours before the first pitch, and LA’s baseball team setting sights on its first World Series title since 1988, the sooner you can travel up there, the better.

Courtesy of Sunset Beer Company

Sunset Beer Company

This low-key Echo Park beer bar is close to the bottom of the hill, so you’re a straight shot to the lot once you’ve wrapped up pre-game drinks (responsibly, of course). Along with multiple draft beers, they also have an extensive bottle shop attached that features local Los Angeles and Orange County breweries. Best bet before a game? Park yourself on a couch, grab a board game and a pint, and enjoy the leg room while you have it.

Courtesy of Guisados

Guisados

Not far off of Sunset Boulevard is one of LA’s top taco shops, Guisados, which serves most of its affordable street tacos for under $3. The earlier you arrive, the more likely you’ll be able to quickly grab some tacos and a seat outside -- though if it’s during lunch hour, expect a line. Still, a delicious precursor to a baseball game before you end up spending twice the price on Dodger Dogs. 

Courtesy of Mohawk Bend

Mohawk Bend

If you’re looking for good local food and beverages -- rather than one or the other -- trendy Mohawk Bend is your spot. With a California-specific tap list, locally sourced ingredients, and a menu that’s very friendly to vegan patrons, it’s an easy place to post up before finishing the quick drive to the stadium. Their picturesque backroom alone is worth at least a peak.

Courtesy of Howlin' Ray’s

Howlin’ Ray’s

You’ll have limited time to get there, as they’re only open from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesday through Sunday, but it’s worth it for what’s most likely LA’s top Nashville-style hot chicken outpost. Chinatown is right next door to the stadium, and once you get a glimpse of their mouth-watering Instagram posts, you won’t be able to resist making the stop.

Courtesy of Elysian Park

Elysian Park

Perhaps you’re in the mood to walk a bit before sitting through a three-hour baseball game? Nearby Elysian Park (in the Elysian Park neighborhood, clearly) provides long trails, nice views, and a welcome respite from the bustle of Downtown LA.

Courtesy of Secret Lasagna

Secret Lasagna

It doesn’t open until 5 p.m., so while you could roll up beforehand, perhaps you’re best served saving some room for after the game and heading to Secret Lasagna. They serve upscale, late-night comfort food from Chinatown. It’s also a secret (well, sort of.) In any case, the restaurant is well worth the post-game visit.

Courtesy of Eightfold Coffee

Eightfold Coffee

Perhaps you’d prefer a pick-me-up before the game? Eightfold Coffee isn’t far from the other Sunset Boulevard spots on this list, and features an extensive array of specialty coffees and teas. There’s a hipster vibe, as you’d probably come to expect. However, that won’t stop the biggest squares among us from enjoying the caffeine.

Courtesy of Echo Park Lake

Echo Park Lake

Just a mile out from the stadium entrance, you can stroll along the refurbished lake and park, or even rent a pedal boat. Parking’s at a premium here, but if you find a space, it’s a unique spot to stretch your legs and take in the character of the Echo Park neighborhood.

Courtesy of Iam8bit

Iam8bit

Thursday through Sunday, you can stop into this video game-themed art gallery for a look back at all of your arcade fantasies, DuckTales nostalgia, and more cultural oddities. They open at 5 p.m. on Thursday and Friday, so you’d cut it close, but there will be plenty of time to invest in the gallery during weekend night games, as the gallery opens in the early afternoon on Saturdays and Sundays.