It’s that time of year again! Spring training has arrived. Every March, tourists flock to Phoenix to enjoy America’s pastime while soaking up the sun. From the smell of fresh cut grass to the crack of the bat, the Arizona Cactus league has no problem attracting dedicated fans of each of its 15 MLB teams. Yes, spring training is bigger than ever before and locals are often left wondering how they can best enjoy the games.

We’ve got you covered. We’ve created a series of articles showcasing the in’s and out’s of spring training for fans of every team in the Cactus League. Up first? The NL West, home to West Coast teams and our very own Arizona Diamondbacks.

The Arizona Diamondbacks, The Colorado Rockies

Location: Salt River Fields at Talking Stick, Scottsdale

Are you looking to root, root, root for the home team? You can catch the Arizona Diamondbacks play at Salt River Fields in Scottsdale. This state-of-the-art stadium is regularly touted as one the best in the Cactus League thanks to its crowd-friendly design and 11,000 seats. The Dbacks share Salt River Fields with the Colorado Rockies, their NL West rival.

There’s no shortage of pregame spots for fans of both the Rockies and Dbacks. The stadium is a stone’s throw away from both Talking Stick Resort and TopGolf Scottsdale, which both offer fun-filled entertainment and plenty of food and drink. Your best bet to avoid the crowds, however, is Zipps Sports Grill. In addition to the standard Zipps specials, their Hayden location is offering a free shuttle to and from the game with the purchase of a $5 food voucher.

The San Francisco Giants

Location: Scottsdale Stadium, Scottsdale

Bay Area fans don’t have to travel too far to feel right at home. The San Francisco Giants play their games right in the heart of Old Town Scottsdale at Scottsdale Stadium. The classic brick stadium was built in 1955 and includes scenic views of Camelback Mountain and Bay Area favorites like Anchor Steam beer.

Giants spring training headquarters are at RnR Gatropub. This Old Town favorite is known for its vibrant crowds and boozy concoctions like bottomless mimosas and champagne flights. Parking is limited in Old Town. To avoid a headache, you can park at Loloma Station at Fashion Square Mall. The City of Scottsdale offers free shuttles every 10 minutes before and after games.

The Los Angeles Dodgers

Location: Camelback Ranch, Glendale

The Arizona Diamondbacks fiercest rival relocated their spring training headquarters from Florida to Glendale back in 2009. Dodger fans can rep their blue and white at Camelback Ranch, located just west of the Westgate Entertainment District. Though it’s a bit of a trek from the East Valley, Camelback Ranch is one of the most scenic parks in the Valley and is even set along a five-acre lake.

Dodger fans can enjoy a pre-game meal at Westgate staples like McFadden’s Restaurant and Saloon and Bar Louie. You can also load up at the ballpark on a classic Dodger Dog or Vienna Beef Chicago Hot Dogs just like at Dodger Stadium. The real treat, however, is the parking. Parking is free at Camelback Ranch and is most easily accessed by taking El Mirage Road off of the 101.

The San Diego Padres

Location: Peoria Sports Complex, Peoria

Padres fans may not find a San Diego beach in Arizona. But their spring training stadium, the Peoria Sports Complex, has the next best thing: Peoria Cove. This ship-themed attraction includes fun-filled activities for kids like a splash pad, playground and replica baseball field. Adults can enjoy the pleasures of Craft Courtyard, which has California microbrews as well as beers from Arizona and Washington State.

The Peoria Sports Complex is located northwest of Phoenix in the heart of the P83 Entertainment District. Fans can enjoy a number of dining options before or after the game at signature restaurants like Osaka P83 and Revolu Modern Taqueria. On a budget? You can bring your own food and sealed water bottles into the park at Peoria Sports Complex free of charge.

Want more details on spring training in PHX? Check out the full #FrayLife guide for info on the AL West, NL Central and AL Central.

If you’re looking to play during your free time, think about forming a corporate team with your colleagues! PHX Fray has got you covered with a variety of sport options and the best player perks.

View More Articles By John Kuells

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