Just last week, MLB teams gathered in locations across Arizona and Florida to prepare for Opening Day with 4 weeks of Spring Training fun in the sun! Major League baseball is split into two spring training leagues: the Cactus and Grapefruit leagues. Check out where your favorite team will be this spring and our recommendations for the best hotel experiences in each area.
In the Cactus League, 15 teams play at 10 stadiums within 47 miles of each other in and around Phoenix, AZ. Beyond baseball, fans also relish the fact that they can soak up the sun with other activities like hiking or visiting breathtaking Sedona. Here is a list of some of our favorite hotel properties and in the Phoenix/Scottsdale area:
Andaz Scottsdale – This property combines mid-century modern design with local art to create an exceptional Sonoran Desert experience. Inspired by the colorful palate of the desert and timeless design of Alexander Girard, this secluded 23-acre, 185-bungalow urban oasis is uniquely away from it all, in the middle of everything in the heart of Scottsdale. Overlook iconic Camelback Mountain from the comfort of a private bungalow, enjoy a world-class dining experience, refresh at our three Resort pools, and rejuvenate at Palo Verde Spa & Apothecary. Discover the Cattle Track Arts Compound or participate in an Artist in Residence workshop onsite. Explore all Scottsdale has to offer, or let us create a relaxing, restorative, and intimate desert experience.
Closest Teams: Chicago Cubs, Oakland Athletics
Four Season Scottsdale -Experience timeless beauty in our adobe casitas with a backyard full of saguaro cacti, dramatic valleys, and iconic Pinnacle Peak. Discover Scottsdale’s vibrant Native American art, history, and Old West lore. The surrounding hills are ripe with outdoor adventure, including two world-class golf courses a quick shuttle away. Locally inspired spa treatments, a bi-level pool, and authentic Southwest cuisine fulfill your dreams for a relaxing desert escape.
Closest Teams: Arizona Diamondbacks, Colorado Rockies
The Phoenician – Nestled at the base of Camelback Mountain and conveniently located to downtown Scottsdale, The Phoenician presents personalized experiences that are rare and memorable by design. The result of the most extensive renovation undertaken since the property opened in October 1988, the resort has recently transformed itself, introducing a diverse collection of offerings that honor both guest and destination. From the new and contemporary Phoenician Spa to the relaxed vibe and flame-cured cuisine of Mowry & Cotton, the AAA Five Diamond Phoenician celebrates your stay in a signature style thoughtfully written for today’s luxury traveler.
Closest Teams: Los Angeles, San Fransisco Giants
Other Properties to Consider: Arizona Biltmore, Fairmont Scottsdale Princess, Sanctuary of Camelback Mountain Resort & Spa
In the Grapefruit League, baseball fans can flock to see 15 teams warm-up for the season at 13 different locations. The Grapefruit League venues are certainly more spread out than the Cactus League, which provides visitors the opportunity to visit either the Gulf or Atlantic coasts (or both), as well as small-town cities in Central Florida. Here is are some of our favorites:
West Palm Beach (Atlantic Side):
Four Season Palm Beach – At the intimate Four Seasons Resort Palm Beach, immerse yourself in a chic Florida resort with the highest level of attentive service. You’ll find the quintessential beach lifestyle, with guestrooms offering an upscale beach-home aesthetic and private furnished balconies. Watch the sunrise over the Atlantic, or relax in the luxurious spa after bicycling along the Intracoastal Waterway. Take a tennis lesson, learn to surf, lounge on the beach or dine in one of three restaurants offering a unique, local experience. Enjoy Palm Beach’s best golf courses or shopping in the boutique inspired by the nearby shops of famed Worth Avenue.
Closest Teams: Washington Nationals, Houston Astros
Breakers Palm Beach– Celebrate in unapologetic luxury, seaside glamour and genuine service at this revitalized Palm Beach paradise. Bask in four refreshing pools, a private beach, luxurious poolside bungalows for daytime rental and a lively mix of watersports. Savor irresistible dining at nine restaurants, including the newly-transformed Seafood Bar, and delight in renowned shopping. Enjoy championship golf and tennis, an exquisite spa, family activities and complimentary access to the indoor-outdoor oceanfront fitness center. For a more intimate atmosphere, Flagler Club — an exclusive 25-room “hotel-within-the hotel” — offers a customized experience.
Closest Teams: St. Louis Cardinals, Miami Marlins
Sarasota (Gulf Side):
Ritz Carlton Sarasota– Where the ocean meets the marina, The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota is the only option that allows guests to delight in all facets of the destination. With resort amenities that span the charming city, guests can unlock indulgent experiences uniquely tailored just for them, sparking guests to return to take in the coastal grace from the beach to the city and beyond. Guests have exclusive access to The Beach Club on the white sands of Lido Key Beach; The Golf Club, a Tom Fazio–designed 18-hole course that is virtually untouched by any residential or commercial land; and The Ritz-Carlton Spa, a sanctuary of wellness within the hotel.
Closest Teams: Baltimore Orioles, Pittsburg Pirates (One hour from the New York Yankees, Toronto Blue Jays, Philadelphia Phillies)
La Playa Beach & Golf Resort– Daily life at LaPlaya Beach & Golf Resort includes a hefty dose of brilliant sunshine, sparkling azure waters and all the golf and spa diversions you could hope for. A renowned golf course meanders through rolling hills amid 14 lakes and water features. SpaTerre invites you to experience its sanctuary-like appeal, where each of the eight treatment rooms is inspirationally named — think “Tranquillity” and “Harmony.” Baleen, the fine-dining restaurant, is highly acclaimed for its Gulf Coast twist on traditional favorites — try the Crab Cake Eggs Benedict or the roasted natural chicken with goat cheese dumplings and wild mushrooms.
Closest Teams: Boston Red Sox, Minnesota Twins
Other properties to also consider: Ritz Carlton Naples, Four Season Orlando, Eau Palm Beach Resort
To learn more about how Ourisman Travel can assist with booking your hotel for a spring training trip, reach out to us at [email protected] or fill out a Travel Request Form!
