Spring Training in Arizona: The Best Time of Year

Spring Training in Arizona: The Best Time of Year

Every February and March, baseball fans from all over the country flock to Arizona for Cactus League Spring Training, where perfect weather, intimate ballparks, and access to players make this one of the most iconic sporting traditions in the state.

Whether you’re a die-hard MLB fan, a casual baseball lover, or simply want a fun afternoon in the sun, Spring Training near Scottsdale and Fountain Hills is an experience you won’t want to miss.

Ballparks Closest to Scottsdale & Fountain Hills

If you’re staying or living in the Scottsdale / Fountain Hills area, you’re in the heart of Spring Training action. Three stadiums are just minutes away:

1. Salt River Fields at Talking Stick – Scottsdale

Teams: Arizona Diamondbacks & Colorado Rockies
Distance from Fountain Hills: ~15–20 minutes
Distance from Old Town Scottsdale: ~10 minutes

Salt River Fields is the closest Spring Training ballpark to Fountain Hills and one of the premier facilities in the country. Highlights include:

• Fan access to players on the practice fields
• A kids-only autograph area
• Expansive lawn seating and stunning desert architecture
• Great food options and the popular Salty Senorita patio for Rockies fans
• Players walk directly through fan areas—perfect for photos and signatures

This is a must-visit stadium for locals and visitors.

2. Scottsdale Stadium – Old Town Scottsdale

Team: San Francisco Giants
Distance from Fountain Hills: ~25–30 minutes

Tucked into downtown, Scottsdale Stadium is known for:

• Walkable access to Old Town restaurants and bars
• Intimate seating close to the field
• Large shaded concourses
• One of the best autograph areas in the Cactus League

Enjoy a game, then stroll to dinner—it’s the perfect Spring Training outing.

3. Tempe Diablo Stadium – Tempe

Team: Los Angeles Angels
Distance from Fountain Hills: ~30 minutes

Notable features:

• Iconic butte backdrop overlooking left field
• Upgraded facilities and concessions
• Famous helmet nachos and the Tempe Tap Room featuring local craft beer
• A classic ballpark feel

This stadium is especially popular with families and Angels fans escaping the California winter.

4. Chicago Cubs – Sloan Park (Mesa)

Inspired by Wrigley Field with a modern twist, Sloan Park is the largest Cactus League stadium with 15,000 seats. Fans love the food options, shaded seating, and the ability to walk over to the Cubs’ practice complex just steps away. Tailgating is popular, and the replica Wrigley marquee makes for the perfect photo spot.

5. Oakland Athletics – Hohokam Stadium (Mesa)

Hohokam Stadium, renovated for a better fan experience, offers Bay Area–style food favorites, shaded seating, and intimate berm areas perfect for families. With great mountain views and an open, friendly layout, it’s a relaxed place to enjoy a sunny Spring Training afternoon.

Cactus League Teams

Arizona hosts 15 Major League Baseball teams each spring across the Greater Phoenix area. Ballparks span Mesa, Glendale, Goodyear, Peoria, Surprise, and Phoenix, each offering family-friendly activities, shade options, autograph opportunities, and unique stadium features.

You can easily explore teams, ballparks, and daily schedules using the official Cactus League planning resources.

Why Spring Training in Arizona Is So Special

Beyond the baseball itself, the Cactus League offers:

• Perfect 70–80° weather
• Smaller stadiums with close player access
• Kid-friendly play areas and autograph zones
• Dozens of restaurants and patios near ballparks
• Easy travel between stadiums within 45 minutes

For residents of Scottsdale and Fountain Hills, Spring Training is one of the best perks of living in the Valley.

Planning Your Visit

Many fans pair games with:

• Golf rounds
• Hiking in the McDowell Mountains
• Shopping and dining in Old Town Scottsdale
• Resort stays
• Desert sunsets

If you’re visiting and considering making Scottsdale or Fountain Hills your home, Spring Training is the perfect time to experience our lifestyle firsthand.