When spring rolls around, baseball fans know it’s time for America’s favorite pastime to return—but with a sunny twist. Florida’s Gulf Coast plays host to MLB teams for spring training each year, welcoming fans to enjoy both top-tier baseball and the region’s beautiful weather. Known as the Grapefruit League, this annual event showcases some of the best ballparks in the country, combining world-class facilities with laid-back Gulf Coast vibes.
Whether you're a die-hard baseball fan or just love the idea of a beautiful day at the ballpark, this guide highlights the five best spring training ballparks on Florida's Gulf Coast. You’ll learn what makes each park special, from its history to its standout features.
BayCare Ballpark
- Team: Philadelphia Phillies
- Capacity: 8,500
Celebrating its 20th anniversary in 2024, BayCare Ballpark remains as beloved today as it was when it first opened in 2004. Over the years, this Florida landmark has been known by various names, including Bright House Networks Field (2004-2017) and Spectrum Field (2017-2020), before adopting its current name in February 2021 through a naming rights partnership with BayCare Health System.
The 8,500-seat stadium serves as the spring training home of the Philadelphia Phillies and the regular season base for their Single-A affiliate, the Clearwater Threshers. Its Spanish Mediterranean-style architecture, combined with a picturesque fountain plaza adorned with palm trees, perfectly captures the relaxed charm of the surrounding community.
Conveniently located at 601 N Old Coachman Road, just west of US Highway 19, BayCare Ballpark is easily accessible from Tampa International Airport and the greater Tampa Bay area. With fixed seating for 7,300 fans and additional standing-room spaces encircling the outfield, this venue offers a welcoming and spacious environment for baseball fans to enjoy America's pastime.
TD Ballpark
- Team: New York Yankees
- Capacity: 8,500
Next on our list of spring training destinations along the Gulf Coast is a ballpark with a storied history and many names. TD Ballpark, originally built in 1930, has undergone several transformations and rebrandings over the years. Formerly known as Knology Park (2004-2008) and Florida Auto Exchange Stadium (2010-2017), this Dunedin gem has been a longtime hub for baseball enthusiasts. Renovated in 1990 and again in 2020, it now serves as the spring training home of the Toronto Blue Jays.
The most recent $81 million renovation brought significant upgrades, including modernized clubhouses, state-of-the-art training facilities, and enhanced amenities for both players and fans. Seating capacity was expanded to 8,500, and a 360-degree concourse walkway was added, allowing fans to circle the entire field for a variety of viewing angles. One standout feature is the elevated tiki bar beyond right-center field, a shaded gathering spot that offers a unique view of the action along with refreshments.
TD Ballpark is conveniently located at 373 Douglas Avenue, with ample parking available for visitors. Whether you're there for the game or simply soaking up the atmosphere, the park offers a memorable spring training experience.
Ed Smith Stadium
- Team: Baltimore Orioles
- Capacity: 8,500
In Sarasota, Florida, few outdoor venues rival the charm and rich history of Ed Smith Stadium. Serving as the Baltimore Orioles' spring training home, this iconic ballpark underwent a transformative $31.2 million renovation in 2010, earning its reputation as one of the most inviting destinations in the Grapefruit League—for both players and fans alike.
The stadium offers something for everyone. A relaxed picnic porch provides the perfect gathering spot for groups to enjoy the game in a casual setting, while dedicated fans can choose from 7,500 seats that encircle the field. Thanks to its thoughtful design, the stadium boasts excellent sightlines from every angle, whether you're seated behind home plate or along the baselines.
No trip to Ed Smith Stadium is complete without indulging in the local flavors at its concession stands. Highlights include the ever-popular Maryland crab cakes—paying homage to the Orioles' home state—and classic ballpark staples like hot dogs and nachos. Whether you're here for the game, the atmosphere, or the food, Ed Smith Stadium promises an unforgettable experience.
CoolToday Park
- Team: Atlanta Braves
- Capacity: 8,000
CoolToday Park is the perfect spring training home for the Atlanta Braves, and for good reason. Unlike most stadiums surrounded by concrete and urban sprawl, this North Port facility is nestled in Florida’s natural beauty. Nearby attractions like the Harvest Community Garden and the Landing Fishing Pier at Wellen Park provide a well-rounded experience for game day visitors.
Fans can kick off the excitement with pre-game activities in the spacious plaza, featuring native Florida landscaping and plenty of shaded seating for relaxation. During spring training games, the park accommodates up to 6,500 guests across its grandstand and outfield berm seating. But CoolToday Park isn’t just for baseball—it also hosts concerts, festivals, and community events year-round, making it a vibrant hub for entertainment and connection.
George M. Steinbrenner Field
- Team: New York Yankees
- Capacity: 11,000
Few names are as closely tied to baseball as Steinbrenner. The iconic Yankees owner’s legacy endures at this Tampa facility, originally opened in 1996 as Legends Field and renamed in his honor in 2008. Each spring, fans gather here to watch the Yankees gear up for the season ahead. Conveniently located across from Dale Mabry Highway, the stadium offers 11,000 seats in its main bowl, with additional viewing areas in the outfield. Modern upgrades include luxury suites, expanded concessions, and a cutting-edge video board, ensuring a premium experience for every visitor.
Posted by Mike + Michelle Grizzell on
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