Although Major League Baseball’s opening day is March 28, the pre-season fun begins on February 22. These games—low-stakes, less crowded, and far more relaxed than the regular season—typically let baseball fans get a little closer to the action than at major stadiums. Many major league teams hold spring training in Florida, where the warm weather simulates summer conditions; last year the state drew 1.4 million fans looking to catch a game. Here are just a few prime Sunshine State destinations for pre-season ball.
Bradenton, Florida
Built in 1923, the former McKechnie Field is by far the oldest park used for spring training, and the Pittsburgh Pirates have trained there since 1969. The stadium has added modern conveniences over the years (including lights in 2008, allowing for night games), but its location in the middle of a city neighborhood gives it major throwback vibes. If you like the Fenways and Wrigleys of the world, you’ll love this little gem.
North Port, Florida
Thirty-five miles south of Sarasota, this gleaming park opened in 2019. Atlanta Braves fans will want to take advantage of the park’s VIP experience for early entry to batting practice, and get in line for the Kitchen Sink Nachos, margaritas, and the onsite tiki bar’s rum punch.
Cacti Park of the Palm Beaches
Palm Beach, Florida
Hang out on the lawn or schmooze with other fans on the party deck of this southern Florida park, home of the Houston Astros and Washington Nationals. Havana Nights feature a Cuban food truck dishing up classic sandwiches and milkshakes.
Port Charlotte, Florida
It’s easy to make a full day out of a visit to the Charlotte Sports Park—The Tampa Bay Rays’ spring training stadium connects to the Tippecanoe Environmental Park and its walking trails, kayak launch, and boardwalk. In the stadium, two outfield berms flank right and left field, and a baseball boardwalk rings the remainder of the outfield, which is also where you can find cold drinks at the bar.
Jupiter, Florida
Hands down, the best place to soak up some sun and watch the pros (the St. Louis Cardinals or the Miami Marlins) swing their bats and catch fly balls is from Chido Beach Club, behind the bullpen in right field. Grab a program and practice scoring the game.
Sarasota, Florida
Seats in “Birdland South” are refurbished from Camden Yards, so if you can’t make it up to a Baltimore Orioles game in Maryland, you can at least fake it down South. Add a piece of merch from the 2,000-square-foot gift shop, or just enjoy that free Florida sunshine.
