Spring in Florida means one thing for baseball fans: Grapefruit League action. Every year, Major League Baseball teams head to the Sunshine State to prepare for the regular season. Sarasota and the surrounding Gulf Coast cities become the center of it all. If you’re planning your trip, this guide will help you understand who plays where and how to make the most of your stay.
From ballparks to nearby beaches, we’ll cover everything you need to know for a memorable getaway with Vunique Vacations.
What Is the Grapefruit League?
The Grapefruit League is Major League Baseball’s spring training league in Florida. Teams from across the country gather here in February and March to prepare for Opening Day.
Games are relaxed, affordable, and family-friendly. You can:
- Sit closer to the field
- Watch top players up close
- Meet mascots and collect autographs
- Explore multiple stadiums in one trip
Spring training is also one of the best times to visit Clearwater and the Gulf Coast. The weather is warm but not too hot, and the beaches are less crowded than in summer.
Which Teams Can I See During My Vunique Vacation?
When you stay along Florida’s Gulf Coast, you’re within easy driving distance of several teams. Sarasota is centrally located, making it easy to visit stadiums in nearby cities like Bradenton, Clearwater, Tampa, North Port, and Fort Myers. Here’s a closer look at who you can see during your stay.
Sarasota Teams
Baltimore Orioles
The Baltimore Orioles play in Sarasota at Ed Smith Stadium. This classic ballpark offers an intimate setting where fans can truly enjoy the game.
Ed Smith Stadium has wide concourses, great sightlines, and a welcoming atmosphere. It’s just minutes from downtown Sarasota, making it easy to grab dinner or explore local shops before or after the game.
Atlanta Braves
The Atlanta Braves are based in nearby North Port at CoolToday Park. The stadium is about a 30-minute drive from Sarasota.
CoolToday Park is modern and spacious, with comfortable seating and strong fan energy. The Braves’ popularity means games often feel like a preview of the regular season. If you’re planning to catch multiple games, North Port is an easy addition to your schedule.
Pittsburgh Pirates
The Pittsburgh Pirates train in Bradenton at LECOM Park. This historic stadium is about 25 minutes north of Sarasota.
LECOM Park has a classic feel that baseball fans appreciate. It’s one of the oldest spring training stadiums still in use. Pair your game day with a stroll along Bradenton’s Riverwalk for a full afternoon of fun.
Clearwater Teams
Philadelphia Phillies
The Philadelphia Phillies play in Clearwater at BayCare Park. Clearwater is about an hour north of Sarasota and makes for a great day trip.
BayCare Park is known for its energetic crowds and lively game-day atmosphere. Many Phillies fans travel from up north to support their team, so expect plenty of red in the stands.
After the game, explore the area’s beaches and discover some of the top things to do in Clearwater, Florida, from waterfront dining to sunset cruises. If you want to extend your stay in the area, consider booking one of our Clearwater vacation rentals for easy access to both baseball and the beach.
Tampa Teams
New York Yankees
The New York Yankees do spring training at George M. Steinbrenner Field in Tampa. This stadium mirrors Yankee Stadium in design, giving fans a taste of New York in Florida.
Tampa is about an hour from Sarasota. Yankees games often draw large crowds, so plan to arrive early. While you’re there, explore Tampa’s Riverwalk or visit nearby attractions to round out your day.
Fort Myers Teams
Red Sox
The Boston Red Sox play at JetBlue Park in Fort Myers. This stadium is designed to resemble Fenway Park, complete with a “Green Monster”-style wall.
Fort Myers is about two hours south of Sarasota. If you’re a Red Sox fan, it’s worth the drive. Consider making it an overnight trip to enjoy the area’s beaches and waterfront restaurants.
Plan Your Visit
Make the most of Spring Training season with Vunique Vacations. Stay in a luxury home just minutes from the ballpark, where you can catch every game and return to your own private pool, rooftop deck, and spacious living areas.
How Do I Attend a Game?
Attending a spring training game is simple. Here’s how to plan:
- Visit the team’s official MLB website.
- Check the spring training schedule.
- Purchase tickets online in advance.
Tickets are usually more affordable than regular-season games. Seating options range from general admission lawns to premium box seats.
Be sure to check parking details and stadium rules before game day.
The Vunique Difference
At Vunique Vacations, we believe your stay should be just as memorable as the games you attend. Our vacation rental inventory consists of residential homes designed and constructed with vacationing in mind.
Inside, you’ll find open layouts, high-end finishes, and space for the entire family. Outside, each property offers a private oasis. Many homes include:
- Rooftop decks
- Heated pools and spas
- Water slides
- Covered patios
- Bikes and kayaks
- Beach equipment
Cleanliness is another area where we stand apart. Our Vunique Vacations cleaning standards far exceed standard expectations. We take pride in preparing every home with care and attention to detail.
You’ll also have a personal property manager available to assist you throughout your stay. From check-in to checkout, we’re here to help you create a smooth and memorable getaway.
Where to Stay for Spring Training in Sarasota
When it comes to finding a place to stay for your Sarasota spring training adventure, look no further than Vunique Vacations. With a selection of luxury rentals, including Siesta Key luxury rentals and Lido Key luxury rentals, and beautiful vacation homes in Clearwater, you can relax in style after a day of baseball. Whether you want to stay close to Sarasota’s beautiful beaches or prefer a more secluded, private getaway, Vunique Vacations offers the perfect home base for your spring training experience.
Spring training in Sarasota offers baseball fans the best of both worlds—exciting Grapefruit League action and the opportunity to enjoy all that the Gulf Coast has to offer. With top teams like the Orioles, Braves, Phillies, Red Sox, and Yankees training nearby, plus the convenience of staying in a luxury Vunique vacation rental, your spring training getaway is sure to be an unforgettable experience.
