Spring Training in Arizona

Spring is upon us here in Arizona and for fans of America’s game, it means one thing – spring training! Arizona is home to spring training’s “Cactus League,” which is made up of 15 of the Major League Baseball teams preparing for their big season every year in the sunshine and beautiful terrain of our great state.

People flock from all over the nation to watch these professional teams prepare for their upcoming seasons on small Minor League ballparks all within a short distance of Greater Phoenix. It’s not every day you can see so many of these great American teams playing so close to home and without the high ticket prices of a regular season game. Some of our favorite parts of Arizona host spring training including Surprise, Peoria, Tempe and Scottsdale.

Spring training is more than just all-day sports though. Take friends or family on the Cactus League’s Legacy Trail, which is a self-guided historical tour of all the spring training hot spots. Not only will you learn about the history of the Cactus League, but you’ll get to see some of Arizona’s most loved cities like Scottsdale, Mesa, Tempe and Phoenix.

If you’re looking for a little break from the sun with some indoor fun, take a ride over to “Play Ball: The Cactus League Experience” – an exhibit that features photographs, memorabilia and souvenirs relating back to all the years of spring training in Arizona. You can also visit the Old Brick Red School House at The Scottsdale Historical Museum to check out more photos, video footage, and wooden lockers from the original Scottsdale Stadium.

Once hunger strikes, take a visit to Don and Charlie’s Steakhouse to check out the expansive collection of MLB memorabilia and kick back like one of the ball players that used to frequent the hot spot. If you’re a Giants fan, you will be right at home at Karsen’s Grill. You may even feel like one of the baseball history greats sitting in the same establishments they once had a meal or two at!

The spring training has already kicked off, delighting baseball fans across the country with the area boasting mid-60s temperatures and sunshine. So, head on over and catch the Kansas City Royals against the Texas Rangers in Surprise, or the Padres against the Mariners at the lovely Peoria Stadium. Grab a hot dog and a cold drink and cheer on your favorite MLB team from the convenience of your very own Arizona backyard. Major League Baseball spring training is just another reason why living in Arizona is like summer vacation all year.