Cactus League Spring Training
Discover the top 10 game day activities during Cactus League Spring Training in Arizona.
Spring Training in Arizona:
Over 200 Major League games in 30 days!
When the boys of summer hit the fields in Mesa, it’s our official sign that spring has sprung. Mesa is home to two spring training teams – the Chicago Cubs, which have been in Mesa since the early 1950s, and the Oakland A’s, a team that returned to our city in 2015.
Top 10 Spring Training Activities
With clear, blue skies and comfortable temperatures from the mid-70s to mid-80s, Arizona is the perfect place for Spring Training. While the rest of the country is looking to a groundhog to predict when the snow will melt, you'll revel in the sunshine, Cracker Jacks and heart-pounding baseball games. Don't miss out on these fun, family-friendly Spring Training activities while supporting your favorite team.
1. Watch a Game
Spring Training brings hundreds of thousands of fans to Arizona every year. Throughout the state, baseball enthusiasts follow their favorite teams to the Grand Canyon state. Catch the Chicago Cubs at Sloan Park and the Oakland A’s at Hohokam Stadium right here in Mesa.
2. Tailgate
Arrive early to set-up your ideal tailgating experience. Sip on a cool drink under the warm Arizona sun, snack on picnic staples, and let the kids play. Strike up some conversation with other fans and enjoy a sense of camaraderie found only during Spring Training.
3. Grab Gear
Both the Chicago Cubs and Oakland A’s have memorabilia available for purchase at their respective stadiums during Spring Training. Pick a fresh baseball cap and jersey to show off your team pride in style.
4. Watch Batting Practice
Throughout the Spring Training season the Chicago Cubs can be found practicing and exercising at the Nike Performance Center and Riverview Baseball Complex. Visitors are invited to watch the team practice. Note: Practice times vary on non-game days, but often begin at 9 a.m.
5. Snack on Concessions
Nothing says baseball quite like eating hot dogs, snacks, and ice cream while watching the game. Both Hohokam Stadium and Sloan Park feature a wide variety of concessions, guaranteed to satisfy every member of your family. Fans searching for ways to enjoy the local cuisine should plan to stop at one of Mesa’s many restaurants after the game.
6. Catch a Ball
Possibly one of the most exciting moments in a baseball game is the opportunity to catch a foul or home run ball. The more intimate nature of these Spring Training venues provides children and other guests with more chances to catch a game ball of their own.
7. Meet the Team
With multiple ways to get up close to the Cubs and Oakland A’s during Spring Training games, fans may have the chance to get an autograph from their favorite team member.
8. Stomper Kid Zone
If you’re at Hohokam Stadium let the kids explore the Stomper Kid Zone. Children 12 and under are invited to play tee-ball, home run derby, and baseball skeeball. During select games Stomper will be available for autographs and photos.
9. Riverview Park
Before a Cubs game, bring the kids to the incredible playground in Riverview Park. Every child is sure to have a ball in this massive entertainment space featuring multiple climbing structures, playgrounds, and open play areas.
10. Catch Another Game
Mesa is in the heart of Arizona's Cactus League Spring Training action. With more than 200 Major League Baseball games in just 30 days, you'll find plenty of chances to catch America's pastime in action!