Planning a Scottsdale Spring Training trip but overwhelmed by 10 stadiums, 15 teams, and conflicting schedules scattered across the Phoenix metro?
Most visitors waste hours sorting through generic aggregator sites that list raw data without telling you which games actually matter—or warning you about the trolley detour that strands thousands of fans every spring.
Here’s the deal:
Scottsdale is the only Arizona city with two Cactus League stadiums within 7 miles of each other—plus walkable dining, nightlife, and hotels that make it the perfect home base for your baseball pilgrimage.
Even better? The 2026 season features something extraordinary: World Baseball Classic exhibition games where Team USA plays in Scottsdale on March 3-4. This is the single most significant concentration of All-Star talent you’ll see all spring.
This boots-on-the-ground guide covers everything you need for Scottsdale Spring Training 2026:
- ⚾ Full schedules for Scottsdale Stadium (Giants) and Salt River Fields (D-backs/Rockies)
- 🇺🇸 WBC exhibitions—Team USA vs. Giants (March 3) and Team Mexico vs. D-backs (March 3-4)
- 🎟️ Hidden ticket deals—Family 4-Pack ($99), Student Pass ($99 for 11 games), $4 lawn seats
- ⚠️ 2026 logistics traps—trolley detour until May 8, bag policy that varies by stadium, cashless venues
- 🏨 Where to stay within walking distance (and when you actually need a car)
- 🍔 Pre-game dining by walking distance—not generic “Old Town has restaurants”
Let’s play ball:
⚾ Quick Answer: Scottsdale Spring Training 2026
Scottsdale Spring Training 2026 runs February 20 through March 24 at two stadiums: Scottsdale Stadium (San Francisco Giants, 12,000 seats, Old Town walkable) and Salt River Fields at Talking Stick (Arizona Diamondbacks & Colorado Rockies, 11,000 seats). Tickets start at $4. The marquee event: World Baseball Classic exhibitions March 3-4 featuring Team USA and Team Mexico at both Scottsdale venues.
Table of Contents
What Is Scottsdale Spring Training?
Scottsdale Spring Training is the annual pre-season baseball period when Major League Baseball teams prepare for the regular season at Arizona’s Cactus League facilities. Scottsdale hosts three MLB teams across two stadiums—making it the most concentrated spring training hub in the entire state.
Unlike Florida’s Grapefruit League (spread across 250+ miles), Scottsdale’s two venues sit just 7 miles apart. This means you can catch a 1:05 PM Giants game at Scottsdale Stadium, grab a beer in Old Town, and make the 15-minute drive to Salt River Fields for an evening D-backs game without breaking a sweat.
📍 Scottsdale Stadium: San Francisco Giants | 7408 E Osborn Rd (Old Town, walkable from bars/hotels)
📍 Salt River Fields: Arizona Diamondbacks + Colorado Rockies | 7555 N Pima Rd (North Scottsdale, car needed)
📅 2026 Season: February 20 – March 24
🎟️ Tickets: $4 lawn – $60+ reserved (dynamic pricing based on opponent/date)
The best part?
Spring training offers intimate baseball experiences impossible during the regular season. You’ll sit 50 feet from All-Stars. Autographs before games are routine—not a lucky exception. And at 12,000-seat Scottsdale Stadium (the “Wrigley Field of the Desert”), there’s literally no bad seat.
The ticket to Scottsdale Stadium isn’t just admission to a game—it’s a ticket to the entire Old Town ecosystem. The approach is pedestrian-heavy, lined with bars and restaurants that function as de facto concourses. Your baseball day starts blocks before you reach the gates.
2026 Cactus League Season: Key Dates You Need to Know
The 2026 Cactus League schedule officially runs from February 20 through March 24—but not all games are created equal.
Now:
This season is structurally different due to the World Baseball Classic. The tournament creates a bifurcated spring training: the “Club Phase” (mid-February to early March) when rosters are intact, and the “Tournament Phase” (early-to-mid March) when star players may be pulled for international duty.
Understanding this flow is critical for fans who want to see specific superstars—not just whoever’s left in camp.
Opening Day: February 20, 2026
The Cactus League soft-opens on Friday, February 20 with the classic “Civil War” matchup:
⚾ OPENING DAY GAME: Arizona Diamondbacks vs. Colorado Rockies
📍 Location: Salt River Fields at Talking Stick
⏰ First Pitch: 1:10 PM MST
💡 Why It Matters: Both teams share Salt River Fields, making this an excellent low-stress entry point. Expect festive atmosphere, giveaways, and easier ticket availability than weekend games. Both clubhouses are active—prime for autograph hunters.
The full league slate kicks off Saturday, February 21 with high-demand matchups:
- Cubs vs. Giants at Scottsdale Stadium — Always the hottest ticket in the Cactus League. Chicago fans travel in force.
- Dodgers vs. Diamondbacks at Salt River Fields — LA fans make the 5-hour drive. Expect premium pricing.
💡 LOCAL INSIGHT: The days of walking up to the box office for a $10 lawn seat on Saturday are largely over. Both stadiums use dynamic pricing—a Tuesday game against the Royals might cost $25, while the same seat for Cubs vs. Giants Saturday commands $120. Check prices early and often.
World Baseball Classic Exhibition Games: March 3-4 (The “Super Tuesday” of Spring Training)
But here’s the kicker:
This is what makes 2026 genuinely special. The World Baseball Classic returns, and Scottsdale hosts two exhibition games that function as a “second Opening Day” for intensity and star power.
Unlike standard spring training games where starters are pulled after the 4th inning, WBC exhibitions feature higher intensity and longer playing time as stars tune up for the tournament. These aren’t glorified scrimmages—they’re dress rehearsals for international competition.
🇺🇸 WBC EXHIBITION #1: San Francisco Giants vs. Team USA
📅 Date: Tuesday, March 3, 2026 (Evening game)
📍 Location: Scottsdale Stadium
⚡ Why It Matters: This is arguably the most significant game of the entire Cactus League season. Team USA’s roster features a concentration of All-Star talent that exceeds even a World Series lineup. Expect World Series-level pricing on secondary markets. Buy the moment tickets go on sale.
🇲🇽 WBC EXHIBITION #2: Arizona Diamondbacks vs. Team Mexico
📅 Date: Tuesday, March 3, 2026
📍 Location: Salt River Fields at Talking Stick
🇺🇸 BONUS: Colorado Rockies vs. Team USA plays Salt River Fields on Wednesday, March 4.
⚡ Why It Matters: Given Arizona’s demographics and border proximity, the game against Team Mexico generates an electric atmosphere uncharacteristic of Spring Training. The grass berms will be packed.
💡 LOCAL INSIGHT: Tuesday, March 3 is the “Super Tuesday” of Spring Training. With Team USA playing in the evening and Team Mexico in the afternoon, it is the busiest baseball day of the year. If you want to see the Giants vs. Team USA, buy tickets immediately—they will sell out. Ensure your account is created on the Giants ticket portal before the on-sale date to beat the rush.
Season Finale & Special Dates: March 23-24
Other key dates for your 2026 calendar:
- January 24 – February 1: Scottsdale Western Week overlaps with pitchers and catchers arrival—”Cowboys and Curveballs” atmosphere in Old Town. Rodeo-themed parties meet baseball fans.
- March 1 (Sunday): “Dog Days” at Scottsdale Stadium—pets permitted on the lawn. Unique atmosphere, not for everyone seeking a quiet afternoon.
- March 12 (Thursday): Youth Baseball & Softball Day—large groups of children, increased noise. A date adult travelers may want to avoid.
- March 23-24: Crossover games including Tigers vs. Rockies at Salt River Fields (Tigers travel from Florida). Season finale weekend.
Planning to arrive early for Western Week? Check out the best nightlife in Scottsdale for rodeo-themed parties and live country music throughout Old Town.
Scottsdale Stadium: San Francisco Giants Spring Training Home
Scottsdale Stadium stands as an anomaly in the modern Cactus League. While other teams have moved to sprawling complexes on the suburban fringe, the Giants remain in the heart of downtown Scottsdale—integrated directly into the urban fabric of Old Town.
This location is its primary asset and its primary logistical challenge.
Built on a site that has hosted baseball since 1956, the stadium offers an intimacy and history that newer parks lack. It’s the “Wrigley Field of the Desert”—12,000 seats where there’s literally no bad view, and the beer garden buzz starts three blocks before you reach the gates.
Location & How to Get There
📍 Address: 7408 E Osborn Rd, Scottsdale, AZ 85251
🚶 Walkability: 0.5–1.0 mile from Old Town hotels, bars, restaurants
🚗 From Phoenix Sky Harbor: 15 minutes (12 miles) via AZ-202 Loop
🎫 Box Office: Opens 2 hours before first pitch
♻️ Re-Entry: Allowed (rare for spring training—use this to grab lunch at nearby restaurants)
Want to know the best part?
Scottsdale Stadium allows re-entry—a rarity in spring training. This means you can leave mid-game, grab tacos at a nearby restaurant, and return for the 7th inning stretch without losing your seat (lawn excepted). The stadium experience extends blocks in every direction.
Giants 2026 Home Game Schedule Highlights
- February 22 (Sun): Cubs vs. Giants — Season’s hottest ticket (Home Opener). Book immediately.
- February 23 (Mon): Athletics vs. Giants — First weekday home game.
- March 1 (Sun): “Dog Days” — Pets permitted on lawn. Unique vibe (vs. Padres).
- March 3 (Tue): Giants vs. Team USA (WBC) — The game of the season. All-Star concentration.
- March 7 (Sat): Rangers vs. Giants — Weekend crowd, high demand.
- March 14 (Sat): Diamondbacks vs. Giants — Local rivalry game.
Ticket Options & Best Deals
The Giants use dynamic pricing—the same seat costs wildly different amounts depending on opponent and day of week.
💰 TICKET PRICE RANGES (2026):
Lawn: $4–$25 (weekday vs. Cubs Saturday)
Bleachers: $15–$45
Reserved Grandstand: $25–$75
Premium (Charro Lodge): $100–$150 all-inclusive
WBC Team USA (March 3): Expect $75–$150+ for any seat
💡 HIDDEN VALUE DEALS:
Family 4-Pack ($99): 4 tickets + 4 hot dogs + 4 sodas for select games. Given that a single beer costs $16 and a hot dog $8 inside, the embedded food value makes this effectively $15/person. Best deal for families.
Student Pass ($99): Access to 11 weekday games. For college students on spring break, this drops to $9/game—unbeatable.
Stadium Tips: Parking, Sun Strategy & Food
But here’s what most visitors don’t know:
The standard advice for Scottsdale Stadium is “park at the library” or “take the trolley.” In 2026, both pieces of advice are fraught with complications that generic guides completely miss.
Parking Reality Check
On-site parking at Scottsdale Stadium is virtually non-existent for the public—reserved for team personnel and media. The standard option is the Scottsdale Civic Center Library garage.
⚠️ PARKING WARNING: The Civic Center Library garage typically reaches capacity by 10:30 AM for a 1:05 PM game. Arriving after 11:00 AM requires a backup plan: private lots in residential neighborhoods south of Osborn Road, or galleria garages to the north (15-minute walk). Treat parking as a competitive sport.
Sun & Shade Strategy
Arizona sun is deceptive. Scottsdale Stadium’s grandstand offers limited shade compared to newer venues.
- Shade Seekers: The sun sets behind third base. Third Base Grandstand (Sections 300-308) receives shade earliest—usually by 2:00 PM for 1:05 starts.
- Sun Worshippers: First base side and Right Field Berm remain in direct sunlight for most afternoon games.
- Premium Option: The Charro Lodge (left field) offers all-inclusive food/drink with consistent shade and misting systems. Individual tickets sometimes appear on secondary markets.
Food & Beverage
Stadium concessions are typical ballpark fare at premium prices ($16 beers, $8 hot dogs). The smarter play: leverage re-entry and Old Town’s walkable restaurants.
Pro tip: Aerosol sunscreen cans are explicitly permitted at Scottsdale Stadium—a rarity in sports venues. Bring your own for easy re-application.
Salt River Fields at Talking Stick: Arizona Diamondbacks & Colorado Rockies
Salt River Fields at Talking Stick represents the pinnacle of modern spring training design. Opened in 2011, it was the first Major League facility built on Native American land (the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community).
This partnership isn’t merely a lease agreement—it’s woven into the architecture. The roofline mimics a traditional Native American ramada. The landscaping features native Sonoran vegetation. And the facility is designed with the fan experience as the primary driver.
📍 Address: 7555 N Pima Rd, Scottsdale, AZ 85258
🚗 From Old Town: 15 minutes (7 miles) via Pima Rd
🚗 From Phoenix Sky Harbor: 25 minutes (18 miles) via AZ-101 Loop
🏔️ Views: Camelback Mountain, McDowell Mountains, Four Peaks, Superstition Mountains
☀️ Shade: Sweeping roof covers ~85% of grandstand seats as afternoon progresses
Location & How to Get There
Unlike walkable Scottsdale Stadium, Salt River Fields requires a vehicle. But the payoff is extraordinary: a 360-degree concourse that lets you circumnavigate the field without losing sight of the game, plus mountain views in every direction.
💡 THE INSIDER ROUTE: The primary entrance off Pima Road is the GPS default—and therefore the most congested. The superior entry point is via 90th Street, accessed from Via de Ventura (Loop 101 Exit 43). This feeds into the Mountain and Desert lots (Rockies side) with significantly less traffic than the main gates.
Diamondbacks & Rockies 2026 Schedule Highlights
- February 20 (Fri): D-backs vs. Rockies (OPENING DAY) — “Civil War” as both teams share the facility.
- February 21 (Sat): Rockies vs. Diamondbacks — The rivalry continues all weekend.
- March 3 (Tue): D-backs vs. Team Mexico (WBC) — Playoff atmosphere. Book early.
- March 4 (Wed): Rockies vs. Team USA (WBC) — All-Star showcase.
- March 8 (Sun): Cubs vs. Diamondbacks — Chicago travels well to Arizona.
- March 21 (Sat): Rangers vs. Diamondbacks — Weekend finale stretch.
⚾ View D-backs Schedule → ⚾ View Rockies Schedule →
Ticket Options & Pricing
💰 TICKET PRICE RANGES (2026):
Lawn (Berm): $15–$35
Bleachers: $20–$50
Reserved Grandstand: $30–$60
Premium Club: $75–$125
WBC Games (March 3-4): Expect $50–$100+ for any seat
Note: Salt River Fields lawn seating is expansive with excellent sightlines—better value than Scottsdale Stadium’s steeper, more crowded lawn. The berm is the move for budget-conscious fans who arrive early to stake prime territory.
Stadium Tips: Native Heritage, Parking & Mountain Views
Parking: Avoid the Pima Road Trap
Salt River Fields has massive surface lots (Desert, Mountain, Granite, Centerfield), but ingress and egress can be deceptive.
⚠️ PARKING INTEL:
Cost: $11–$16 general, $40+ valet (cashless only)
Trap: Pima Road entrance = default GPS = maximum congestion
Insider Route: 90th Street via Via de Ventura (Loop 101 Exit 43) → Mountain/Desert lots
Pro Tip: Prepay for parking during ticket purchase to skip the payment line entirely.
The “Civil War” Advantage
When the D-backs and Rockies play each other (like Opening Day February 20), both clubhouses are active. This makes these games prime territory for autograph hunters—players from both teams are on their “home turf” and more accessible than typical road games.
Where to Stay for Scottsdale Spring Training 2026
Your choice of hotel dictates your entire spring training logistics. Scottsdale offers two distinct strategies based on your travel persona.
Hotels Near Scottsdale Stadium (Old Town Walking Distance)
Strategy A: The Urban Walker
Best for: Bachelor/bachelorette parties, nightlife enthusiasts, Giants loyalists who want to eliminate the car entirely.
🏨 TOP PICKS (0.5–1.0 mile walk to stadium):
Hotel Valley Ho — Mid-century modern icon, pool scene, walking distance to everything
Hyatt Place Old Town — Reliable quality, complimentary breakfast, central location
Canopy by Hilton Old Town — Rooftop bar, modern rooms, steps from galleries
Scottsdale Marriott Old Town — Business-friendly, consistent, walkable
The value proposition: Wake up, walk to brunch at The Montauk, walk to the game, walk to dinner at RnR Gastropub, walk to bars. No Uber surge pricing. No designated driver debates.
The warning: Old Town hotel rates during Spring Training are at their annual peak. Expect $250–$450/night for properties that cost $150 in summer.
For detailed reviews and booking tips, see our complete guide to best hotels in Old Town Scottsdale.
Hotels Near Salt River Fields
Strategy B: The Resort Relaxer
Best for: Families, couples seeking pool time, D-backs/Rockies fans, those who want resort amenities between games.
🏨 TOP PICKS (5–10 minute drive to Salt River Fields):
Talking Stick Resort — Adjacent to the stadium, casino, Orange Sky restaurant with 15th-floor views
Courtyard Scottsdale Salt River — Newer property, pool, reasonable rates
Hampton Inn Talking Stick — Free breakfast (huge savings for families), clean, reliable
Residence Inn Talking Stick — Kitchen suites for extended stays
The value proposition: Resort pools, casino entertainment, free breakfast at Hampton Inn significantly reduces daily costs for a family of four compared to à la carte Old Town brunch prices.
The trade-off: You’ll need a car for everything, including dining variety and Old Town nightlife.
Check out our guide to the best Scottsdale hotels with pools !
Best Value: Hotels Convenient to Both Stadiums
If you’re catching games at both venues, consider properties along the Scottsdale Road corridor between Old Town and Talking Stick—roughly 10 minutes to either stadium.
The Kierland area (Westin Kierland, Fairmont Scottsdale Princess) offers luxury resort amenities with reasonable drive times to both ballparks, though at premium pricing.
I’ve put together this interactive map below showing live hotel and accommodation options near both stadiums:
⚾ Find best Hotels near both Stadiums →
Flying in? Our Phoenix Airport to Scottsdale guide covers the 20-minute trip with rideshare costs, rental car tips, and hotel shuttle options.
Best Pre-Game Dining Near Scottsdale Stadiums
Generic guides say “Old Town has restaurants.” That’s useless.
What you need is tactical dining intelligence: restaurants categorized by walking time to the gates, atmosphere, and how they fit the baseball rhythm—fast service, good capacity, proximity.
Restaurants Within Walking Distance of Scottsdale Stadium
🍺 BRAT HAUS (0.5 miles — 8 min walk)
The quintessential pre-game spot. Open-air beer garden atmosphere that aligns perfectly with baseball. Order the giant pretzel (feeds two) and a liter of German lager. Arguably the most popular Giants fan meeting point.
Best For: Groups, beer lovers, pre-game buzz
🍳 DAILY DOSE OLD TOWN (0.6 miles — 10 min walk)
Essential breakfast recommendation. Famous for cinnamon roll pancakes that provide the caloric foundation necessary for a day of drinking in the Arizona sun.
Best For: Breakfast/brunch before afternoon games
🎉 RNR GASTROPUB (1.0 mile — 15 min walk)
The “party” option. Known for bottomless mimosas and DJ-driven atmosphere on weekends. Destination for younger demographics, bachelor/bachelorette parties attending games.
Best For: Rowdy brunch, groups celebrating
⚠️ Note: Bottomless mimosas end at strict times—check cutoff before ordering.
🥂 THE MONTAUK (1.1 miles — 17 min walk)
Slightly upscale lounge-style brunch. “Hamptons meets Desert” vibe that breaks from the sports bar mold. Appeals to those seeking a sophisticated start before descending into ballpark chaos.
Best For: Couples, elevated brunch experience
For the full Old Town dining scene, see our guides to best brunch in Scottsdale and best Mexican restaurants in Scottsdale.
Dining Options Near Salt River Fields
Salt River Fields isn’t in a walkable neighborhood—it’s part of the Talking Stick Entertainment District. Your options:
🍳 BUTTERS PANCAKES & CAFÉ (2.0 miles — 5 min drive)
Premier breakfast recommendation for the SRF crowd. Proximity makes it the logical “first stop” before heading to 11:00 AM practice field openings.
Pro Tip: Join the waitlist online before driving over.
🌮 LOCO PATRON (2.5 miles — 6 min drive)
Mexican pub perfect for post-game tacos. The patio is ideal for catching the 4 PM Arizona sun after a day game.
Best For: Post-game meals, margaritas
🏨 ORANGE SKY @ TALKING STICK RESORT (Adjacent)
High-end post-game dinner option. 15th-floor views of the stadium and sunset. Reservation-worthy for special occasions.
Best For: Celebratory dinners, couples
Post-Game Drinks & Nightlife in Old Town
After Scottsdale Stadium games, the party migrates to Old Town bars. After Salt River Fields games, most fans drive to Old Town anyway—it’s where the action is.
Top post-game spots: Coach House, Bottled Blonde, The Mint, Casa Amigos. For the complete breakdown, see our Scottsdale nightlife guide.
Quick Comparison: Scottsdale Spring Training Stadiums at a Glance
| Feature | Scottsdale Stadium (Giants) | Salt River Fields (D-backs/Rockies) |
|---|---|---|
| Teams | San Francisco Giants | Arizona Diamondbacks + Colorado Rockies |
| Capacity | 12,000 | 11,000 |
| Location | Old Town (walkable to bars/hotels) | North Scottsdale/Pima Rd (car required) |
| Parking | Street + city lots (fills by 10:30 AM) | On-site $11–$16 (cashless) |
| Best For | Walkability, nightlife, intimate classic vibe | Modern amenities, mountain views, families |
| Ticket Prices | $4–$75+ | $15–$60+ |
| 2026 Opening Game | Feb 22 vs Cubs | Feb 20 OPENING DAY (D-backs vs Rockies) |
| WBC Exhibition | March 3: Giants vs Team USA | March 3: D-backs vs Mexico March 4: Rockies vs Team USA |
| Unique Feature | Re-entry allowed, free trolley (with detour) | First MLB facility on tribal land, 360° concourse |
| Clutch/Purse Max | 9″ x 5″ | 6.5″ x 4.5″ ⚠️ |
Want a cold beer after your match? Check out our guide to the best Scottsdale breweries.
Insider Tips for Scottsdale Spring Training 2026
This section contains the 2026-specific intelligence that separates informed visitors from frustrated tourists. These details are completely absent from official team websites and generic travel guides.
⚠️ 2026 Transit Alert: The Trolley Detour Nobody Tells You About
The most critical finding for 2026:
🚋 TROLLEY DETOUR ACTIVE UNTIL MAY 8, 2026
The 68th/Camelback (68CM) Trolley Route is disrupted due to the City of Scottsdale’s Roosevelt Storm Drain Project. Service has been removed from key stops along Roosevelt Street and Miller Road.
Impact: Visitors staying at hotels along this corridor (a popular budget alternative to Old Town resorts) who expect a seamless trolley ride to Scottsdale Stadium will be stranded or forced into long walks.
The Fix: Use the Miller/Hayden (MLHD) or Mustang (MSTG) routes instead—these remain largely unaffected. Check the official City of Scottsdale transit page before your trip for current detour maps.
⚠️ The Bag Policy Trap: What’s Legal at Giants Games Gets Rejected at D-backs
One of the most frequent sources of friction for Cactus League visitors: bag policies vary by stadium. A bag perfectly legal at Scottsdale Stadium will be confiscated at Salt River Fields the next day.
👜 BAG POLICY COMPARISON (2026):
Clear Bag Maximum:
• Scottsdale Stadium: 12″ x 12″ x 6″
• Salt River Fields: 12″ x 6″ x 12″
(Standard tote size works at both)
Clutch/Purse Maximum — CRITICAL:
• Scottsdale Stadium: 9″ x 5″
• Salt River Fields: 6.5″ x 4.5″
⚠️ A standard 8-inch wallet is ALLOWED at Giants games but BANNED at D-backs games.
Backpacks: Prohibited at both (even clear backpacks are often rejected)
Diaper Bags: Allowed with infant present (check size limits)
Backpacks: Prohibited at both (even clear backpacks are often rejected)
Diaper Bags: Allowed with infant present (check size limits)
The Safe Strategy: If visiting both stadiums, adhere to the strictest common denominator: a clear tote (12x12x6) for bulk items and a tiny clutch (4.5″ x 6.5″ max) for valuables. Relying on the more generous Giants policy guarantees a walk of shame back to your car at Salt River Fields.
💳 Cashless Venues: Leave the Bills at Home
By 2026, the transition is complete. Both stadiums operate as fully cashless environments—parking, concessions, retail, everything.
- Reverse ATMs: Both venues offer machines that convert cash into prepaid debit cards. Expect fees and long lines.
- Vendor Tips: Hawkers in the stands carry handheld POS devices. Cash tips are sometimes still accepted—a gray area in the “cashless” rule.
- Parking: Prepay online during ticket purchase to skip payment lines entirely.
🌡️ Weather Preparedness: The Layer Strategy
Arizona climate in late February/March is deceptive:
- 9:00 AM (Practice fields open): Low 50s°F. Light jacket essential.
- 1:00 PM (First pitch): Mid-70s to low 80s°F. Direct sun exposure. Jacket becomes a burden.
- 4:00 PM (Late innings): Temperature drops rapidly as sun moves behind grandstand, especially in shade.
Pro tip: Bring layers you can tie around your waist. Sunscreen (aerosol cans permitted at Scottsdale Stadium—verify for Salt River Fields). And hydrate constantly—altitude and dry air dehydrate faster than you’d expect.
Local Secrets: The “Shadow Map” & Traffic Hacks
☀️ THE SHADOW MAP (Don’t Get Burned):
Most visitors underestimate the Arizona sun. Here is where to sit to stay cool:
• Scottsdale Stadium: The sun sets behind the 3rd base side. Seats in Sections 300-308 get shade first, usually by 2:00 PM.
• Salt River Fields: The roof is an architectural marvel, covering 85% of the grandstand. It is the most sun-safe stadium in the league.
🚗 SALT RIVER TRAFFIC HACK:
Everyone exits via Pima Road, creating a 45-minute gridlock. Don’t follow the herd. Exit the parking lots via 90th Street towards Via de Ventura. You will bypass the main bottleneck and be on the Loop 101 freeway in minutes.
FAQs: Scottsdale Spring Training 2026
When does Spring Training start in Scottsdale 2026?
Scottsdale Spring Training 2026 officially begins Friday, February 20 with the Arizona Diamondbacks vs. Colorado Rockies at Salt River Fields (1:10 PM). The full Cactus League schedule runs through March 24, 2026. Pitchers and catchers report mid-February, with practice fields opening to fans before the first games.
How much are Spring Training tickets in Scottsdale?
Ticket prices vary by stadium, opponent, and day of week due to dynamic pricing. At Scottsdale Stadium (Giants): lawn seats start at $4 for weekday games, reserved grandstand $25–$75, premium games (Cubs, Dodgers, WBC) $75–$150+. At Salt River Fields: lawn $15–$35, reserved $30–$60. Best deals: Family 4-Pack ($99 includes food) and Student Pass ($99 for 11 games).
Which MLB teams play Spring Training in Scottsdale?
Three MLB teams call Scottsdale home for Spring Training: the San Francisco Giants at Scottsdale Stadium (Old Town), and the Arizona Diamondbacks and Colorado Rockies (who share Salt River Fields at Talking Stick). In 2026, Scottsdale also hosts World Baseball Classic exhibitions featuring Team USA (March 3-4) and Team Mexico (March 3).
Can you walk to Scottsdale Stadium from Old Town?
Yes. Scottsdale Stadium is located in the heart of Old Town at 7408 E Osborn Rd—within 0.5 to 1.0 mile walking distance from most Old Town hotels, bars, and restaurants. The free Scottsdale Trolley also serves the area, though the 68CM route is detoured until May 8, 2026 due to construction. Salt River Fields, by contrast, requires a vehicle (15-minute drive from Old Town).
Is Salt River Fields or Scottsdale Stadium better for families?
Both are excellent for families, with different strengths. Salt River Fields offers modern amenities, expansive lawn seating, a 360-degree concourse, and 85% grandstand shade coverage—plus easier parking. Scottsdale Stadium offers the classic, intimate ballpark experience with re-entry allowed (great for mid-game breaks) and walkable access to family-friendly restaurants like Sugar Bowl ice cream parlor. Salt River Fields edges out for young children; Scottsdale Stadium wins for baseball purist families.
What are the World Baseball Classic games in Scottsdale 2026?
Scottsdale hosts three WBC exhibition games in 2026:
* March 3: San Francisco Giants vs. Team USA at Scottsdale Stadium (evening)
* March 3: Arizona Diamondbacks vs. Team Mexico at Salt River Fields
* March 4: Colorado Rockies vs. Team USA at Salt River Fields
These games feature higher intensity than standard spring training, with stars playing longer. Expect premium pricing and early sellouts—book immediately when tickets go on sale.
Do I need a car for Spring Training in Scottsdale?
It depends on your itinerary. For Scottsdale Stadium (Giants) games only: No car needed if you stay in Old Town—walk to the stadium, restaurants, and nightlife. For Salt River Fields (D-backs/Rockies): Yes, car required—the stadium is in North Scottsdale with no walkable dining or hotels. If attending games at both venues, a rental car or rideshare budget is essential. Uber/Lyft from Old Town to Salt River Fields runs approximately $20–$30 each way.
Your Scottsdale Spring Training 2026 Game Plan
Whether you’re chasing the Giants vs. Team USA showdown on March 3, the Opening Day “Civil War” at Salt River Fields, or simply soaking in the intimate baseball atmosphere that only spring training delivers—Scottsdale is the Cactus League’s ultimate home base.
Two stadiums. Three teams. Seven miles apart. One unforgettable trip.
Bottom line:
Book your WBC tickets the moment they go on sale—these will be the hottest tickets of the 2026 spring. Secure Old Town hotels early (rates spike as February approaches). And remember the 2026-specific traps: trolley detour, bag policy differences, cashless venues.
Now go plan your trip. The crack of the bat awaits.
🔒 Official MLB Ticket Marketplace
⚡ Instant download available
⭐ Best rates for Spring 2026
What game are you most excited to catch this spring—the WBC Team USA showcase, Opening Day at Salt River Fields, or a classic Cubs vs. Giants rivalry matchup?
Drop us a line at contact@scottsdalespot.com—we’d love to hear about your spring training plans.
Planning more of your Scottsdale trip? Check out these local guides:
