Whether your favorite team plays in Arizona as part of the Cactus League, or in Florida with the Grapefruit League, spring training baseball is the best way to kick off the pre-season with a fun, friendly game at stadiums that look like they belong in the big leagues. Check out our list of the best spring training stadiums in the country:
George M. Steinbrenner Field in Tampa
The springtime home of the New York Yankees is exactly what you’d expect from what’s arguably baseball’s most famous team. Located just across the street from the Raymond James Stadium, home of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Steinbrenner Field (renovated in 2017) is a stadium inspired by the history of the sport. It’s layout and façade mimic the old Yankee Stadium, giving long-time fans a good dose of baseball stadium nostalgia. Not only is it the first spring training stadium to provide luxury suites (setting the standard for all the stadiums going forward), it’s also the largest in the Grapefruit League—with a seating capacity of over 11,000. While there isn’t a bad seat in the house, prices are a little steep; but you get what you pay for, as the seats are noted for comfort, and the stadium staff goes above-and-beyond to ensure you have an amazing experience.
Tempe Diablo Stadium in Tempe
This Cactus League stadium has a long history dating back to the late 1960s. Seattle and Milwaukee teams were the first ones to play here, but the Los Angeles Angels have made it their spring training home since 1993. And yes, locals do see the irony in Tempe Diablo Stadium hosting the Angels. Fans flock from all around the country to hang out at this incredibly picturesque spot between Tempe’s Twin Buttes. Given its hillside location and being the only non-street level stadium in the Cactus League, many fans return just for the view. While bleacher seating outnumbers stadium seats, all the bleachers have seat backs—so you can sit back and relax. And aside from the crowded concourses and somewhat lax seating policy, this stadium is hugely popular and easy to get to from anywhere in the Phoenix area. Just be sure to wear sunscreen drink lots of water.
Ed Smith Stadium in Sarasota
This minor league stadium feels like it belongs in the big league—with major league amenities, space for over 8,000 fans, additional onsite and offsite training fields, an awesome clubhouse and more. Often called “Birdland South,” the Ed Smith Stadium plays host to the Baltimore Orioles. A radical renovation from 2008-2011 fixed some glaring issues that kept fans, and even some teams, away. These changes included increasing sightlines to the field, expanding concourse to increase the flow of spectators, and moving the bullpens to the foul lines for a better player and spectator experience. The changes also increased the number of seats in the shade, added air-conditioned suites, and included refurbished seats from the Orioles’ ballpark at Camden Yards—so fans will feel right at home.
Peoria Sports Complex in Peoria
The 12,000-person capacity stadium—home to both the Seattle Mariners and the San Diego Padres—is one of the largest spring training stadiums in the country, and one of the most family-friendly. Designed as a nearly perfect circle, with the field in the middle, pretty much every spot is a prime location. However, you won’t find seat-backs on these bleachers (or very much shade for that matter) so many fans opt to sit or stand in the grassy areas outfield. Just remember to arrive early and bring lots of sunscreen. And, be sure to bring a towel and change of clothes for the little ones. In 2017, a “Kids Zone” called the Peoria Cove was added; it features a miniature baseball diamond (The Ballyard), as well as a playground with a 40-foot steel ship mast and sail, a small splash pad and play structure (The Shipyard). There’s also a café with kid-friendly concessions and shade structures with misters. Check for family deals before purchasing your tickets.
Spectrum Field in Clearwater
The Philadelphia Phillies have called this beautiful stadium home since 2004. Everything about Spectrum Field (formerly Bright House Field) screams traditional Floridian architecture. A huge fountain greets you at the entrance, leading you to through wide walkways and meticulous landscaping. The 360-degree concourse wraps around the entire playing field; and with just 8,500 seats, it’s one of the more intimate stadiums—but that doesn’t mean it’s lacking in amenities. However, parking directly on the stadium lot is limited, so you might expect a short walk from and to your car. The best thing about Spectrum Field? You can satisfy your craving for a traditional Philly Cheesesteak without ever leaving Florida.
Scottsdale Stadium in Scottsdale
Go for the baseball, stay to enjoy “The West’s Most Western Town.” Scottsdale Stadium, located in the middle of historic Old Town Scottsdale, is just a short walk from a wide selection of popular restaurants, clubs, galleries and special events. The original stadium was built in 1956 and served as the former Cactus League home of several teams and now plays host to the San Francisco Giants. Designed by the creators of Camden Yards in Baltimore, the stadium underwent major renovations in 2005 to include a new team store, expanded clubhouse, a centerfield entrance and the Charro Lodge. Despite the hassle of finding nearby parking (we recommend using a cab, ride-share or public transit), Scottsdale Stadium is considered one of the best in the Cactus League—and it shows.
Ready to swing into spring training baseball? Find hotels in Tampa, Tempe, Sarasota, Peoria, Clearwater, Scottsdale.