Spring Training in Arizona: Complete Travel Guide for Tickets, Travel, and Getting Around

What Is Cactus League Spring Training?

Spring Training in Arizona is part of the Cactus League, where 15 MLB teams prepare for the regular season in the greater Phoenix area. Unlike the regular season, games are played in smaller, more intimate stadiums located within about an hour of one another. That geographic concentration makes it possible to attend multiple games across different cities in just a few days without long travel times.

The modern Cactus League began in 1947 when the Cleveland Indians chose Tucson for Spring Training. Arizona did not enforce the same segregation laws found in parts of the South at the time, allowing teams to train more freely as Major League Baseball began integrating. That decision helped establish Arizona as a long-term Spring Training destination. Incidentally, the Indians went on to win the World Series the next season in 1948.

Which Teams Play in Arizona and Where They Are Based

This year, 15 MLB teams participate in Cactus League Spring Training across the greater Phoenix area. For official schedules and stadium details, visit the Cactus League official site.

Scottsdale

• San Francisco Giants - Scottsdale Stadium
• Colorado Rockies - Salt River Fields at Talking Stick
• Arizona Diamondbacks - Salt River Fields at Talking Stick

The Diamondbacks and Rockies share Salt River Fields, one of the most modern Spring Training facilities in the league. It was the first MLB spring training facility built on Native American land, operated in partnership with the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community.

Scottsdale Stadium is right by downtown Scottsdale, and it is one of the most popular cities for Spring Training visitors because of its central location, nightlife, and resort-style accommodations.

Mesa

• Chicago Cubs - Sloan Park
• Oakland Athletics - Hohokam Stadium

Often called “Wrigleyville West,” it's the largest spring training stadium in MLB, drawing some of the highest attendance numbers every year. Mesa draws heavy crowds, especially for Cubs games, which are among the most attended Spring Training matchups.

Tempe

• Los Angeles Angels - Tempe Diablo Stadium

Opened in 1968, it is the oldest spring training ballpark still hosting Cactus League games.

Peoria

• San Diego Padres - Peoria Sports Complex
• Seattle Mariners - Peoria Sports Complex

Opened in 1994, it was the first true two-team spring training complex in Arizona and sparked the modern Cactus League stadium boom. Peoria is located in the northwest Valley and is popular with West Coast fan bases.

Glendale

• Los Angeles Dodgers - Camelback Ranch
• Chicago White Sox - Camelback Ranch

Camelback Ranch is one of the more modern Spring Training facilities and frequently draws large crowds. This 141-acre complex includes a scenic lake and walking trails, making it one of the most visually unique and resort-like spring training facilities in MLB.

Surprise

• Texas Rangers - Surprise Stadium
• Kansas City Royals - Surprise Stadium

Located further west, Surprise offers a quieter stay option for fans focused on those teams. The stadium helped put the young city of Surprise on the national sports map after opening in 2003.

Goodyear

• Cleveland Guardians - Goodyear Ballpark
• Cincinnati Reds - Goodyear Ballpark

Goodyear is another West Valley location and often less crowded than central Phoenix areas. Known for its clean sightlines and relaxed atmosphere, it's one of the quieter, more laid-back parks, a favorite among fans who prefer smaller crowds.

Phoenix

• Milwaukee Brewers - American Family Fields of Phoenix

The 2019 renovation made it one of the most shade-friendly parks in the Valley, a major upgrade for fans during warm afternoon games. This stadium is centrally located in Phoenix and easily accessible from most parts of the Valley

Because stadiums are spread across the Phoenix metro area, choosing where to stay can significantly affect your daily drive times.

When to Visit

Spring Training typically runs from late February through late March.

If your schedule is flexible:

• Midweek games tend to be less crowded
• Early March usually offers ideal weather in Arizona
• Late March games feel closer to regular season intensity

Weekend rivalry games sell out quickly, so it is wise to secure tickets early.

How to Get Spring Training Tickets

Spring Training tickets are generally more affordable than regular season MLB tickets, but popular matchups can still sell out.

Ticket options usually include:

• Lawn seating
• Reserved grandstand seats
• Shaded seating
• Club or premium seating

Tickets can be purchased ahead of time here, through the stadium, or in-person. .

Buying early allows you to structure your travel around confirmed game times.

Where to Stay During Spring Training

Your lodging choice should align with the teams you plan to see most.

Stay in Scottsdale if:

• You want central access
• You plan to attend multiple stadiums
• You prefer nightlife and resort options

Stay in Mesa or Tempe if:

• You are focused on Cubs or Angels games
• You want proximity to Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport

Stay in Glendale, Surprise, or Goodyear if:

• You are focused on West Valley teams
• You prefer quieter accommodations

Browse Scottsdale and Phoenix Hotels or Vacation Rentals in the Phoenix metro area

Flying Into Arizona

Most visitors fly into Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX). The airport is typically 20 to 40 minutes from most Spring Training stadiums.

Search Flights to Phoenix

For more of an upgrade and personal experience private flights can be charted into either Sky Harbor or Scottsdale Airport (SDL).

Compare Private Charter Flight Options

Getting Around During Spring Training

Transportation planning is one of the most overlooked parts of a Spring Training trip. The Phoenix metro area is large, and stadiums are spread across multiple cities including Scottsdale, Mesa, Glendale, Surprise, and Goodyear. Driving times between stadiums can range from 20 minutes to over an hour depending on traffic and distance.

Renting a Car Is Usually the Smartest Choice

For most visitors, having your own vehicle is the most flexible and stress-free option. If you plan to attend games in different parts of the Valley or explore areas like Old Town Scottsdale, Tempe, or even Sedona, relying solely on rideshare can become expensive and time-consuming.

If traveling during peak weekends, consider reserving a vehicle in advance. Demand increases significantly during popular matchups and weekends

Consider All-Wheel Drive If Visiting Multiple Areas

While snow is not a concern in Phoenix, travelers extending their trip to northern Arizona, including Flagstaff or Sedona, may benefit from a vehicle suited for mountain roads, especially in early spring when weather can change quickly.

Rideshare and Parking Tips

Rideshare services are widely available throughout the Phoenix area and work well if you are attending a single game near your hotel. However, post-game surges can lead to higher prices and longer wait times.

Most Spring Training stadiums offer on-site parking, but lots fill quickly for high-demand games. Arriving at least 45 to 60 minutes before first pitch helps avoid congestion and gives you time to enjoy batting practice.

Staying Central Saves Time

If you plan to visit multiple stadiums, choosing accommodations in central Scottsdale or near Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport can reduce total drive time. Staying too far west or too far east may limit flexibility and increase daily travel time.

Compare between major car rental brands

Search more unique car rental options with Turo

What to Expect at the Ballpark

Spring Training stadiums are smaller and more intimate than regular season MLB parks. That means:

• Closer seating
• Easier autograph opportunities
• Relaxed security procedures
• Shorter concession lines

Fans often arrive early for batting practice, which provides some of the best access to players.

Make It More Than Just Baseball

Many visitors extend their Spring Training trip with additional Arizona experiences:

• Day trips to Sedona
• Desert hiking
• Golf outings
• Old Town Scottsdale dining
• Resort stays and spa visits

Having reliable transportation makes it easier to turn a few games into a full vacation.

Insider Tips for First-Time Visitors

Book popular games early.
Plan stadium visits geographically.
Allow extra time for traffic before afternoon starts.
Wear sunscreen and stay hydrated. Many areas of the parks like lawn seating don't have shade.

If attending multiple games, staying in a central location often reduces total driving time.

Why Spring Training Is Worth the Trip

Spring Training offers something rare in professional sports: proximity. You can watch MVP candidates practice, sit close to the field, and experience a relaxed baseball environment that feels personal rather than corporate.

For baseball fans, it is one of the most immersive ways to experience the sport. For travelers, it is a warm-weather getaway built around a flexible, accessible schedule.

Final Thoughts

Spring Training in Arizona is more than preseason baseball. It is a travel-friendly sports experience that rewards thoughtful planning. From tickets and lodging to transportation and side trips, organizing the details ahead of time ensures you get the most out of your visit.

Plan your Spring Training trip  with tickets, travel, and transportation today.