Experience Spring Training in Phoenix
In Phoenix, the end of February means the start of spring training in The Cactus League, a group of 15 MLB teams who call Arizona home until opening day in April. Hundreds of thousands of people flock to Phoenix every spring in hopes of getting a glimpse of promising rookies, exciting offseason acquisitions, and all stars shaking off the rust of winter. While you can probably watch baseball all day, we recommend occasionally eating and stretching your legs. Here’s what to do once you’re done watching baseball to make your spring training experience a grand slam.
Take a Time Out at Westgate Entertainment District
If you need to get out of the heat for a little while, make sure to stop by the Westgate Entertainment District. This sprawling indoor/outdoor shopping and restaurant complex has just about everything you could want, from live music, to movie theaters, to kid-friendly fountains, and plenty of access to air conditioning. Westgate Entertainment District is also adjacent to State Farm Stadium, home of the Arizona Cardinals.
Taste the Southwest at Fry Bread House
Change up your usual hot-dog or nacho order with the unique and incredibly tasty Fry Bread (aka “Indian Fry Bread”). Fry bread is a specialty of Indigenous peoples native to northern Mexico and the southwestern United States. Fry bread can be prepared sweet or savory along with plenty of familiar dishes of Mexican-American fusion, like salsa, rice, beans, burritos, and tacos. This casual, charming spot is a Phoenix favorite and something hard to find anywhere else in the country.
Stretch Out at Papago Park
Close to the As’, Cubs’, Giants’, and Angels’ stadiums is Papago Park. This hilly desert park has scores of incredible geologic formations, Saguaro Cacti, and is the home of the Phoenix Zoo and the Desert Botanical gardens. You can hike, picnic, or even take a run around the bases yourself at one of the many baseball and softball fields. Papago Park is also a wonderful place to take in a famous Phoenix sunset!
