Beyond Cactus League Spring Training: 14 Must-See Arizona Activities Near Phoenix
In March, baseball fans head to the Phoenix area for Cactus League spring training, where 15 MLB teams compete within an hour's drive. With up to 10 games daily, even the most dedicated supporters need breaks to recharge.
Here are 14 expert-recommended activities for an extended 7th-inning stretch, letting you explore the Phoenix area and venture deeper into Arizona.
Squeeze Plays: Before or After the Ballgame
1. High and Outside
Start your day with a sunrise hike up Camelback Mountain in Scottsdale. Capture stunning red and gold Sonoran Desert vistas for Instagram. This challenging trail requires preparation—pack ample water and monitor temperatures.
For unparalleled views, book a hot air balloon ride, often including a Champagne breakfast. You'll return in time for afternoon games.
2. Go Wild for a Few Hours
Arizona's wildlife extends beyond the diamond. The Phoenix Zoo houses 1,400 animals, with highlights like giraffe feeding, the Safari Train, and Monkey Village—the nation's only walk-through squirrel monkey exhibit.
Pair it with a visit to the nearby Desert Botanical Garden for a full nature immersion.
3. Take a Swing Off the Tee
Arizona boasts over 400 golf courses, many framed by dramatic desert and mountain scenery. Golf Digest and Golf Magazine rank Phoenix among America's top golf destinations. Secure morning tee times for 18 holes before afternoon games, or enjoy twilight discounts afterward. 
4. Go Beyond Peanuts and Cracker Jacks...
Swap stadium fare for quality dining. Fuel up pre-game at Matt's Big Breakfast, featured on "Diners, Drive-Ins & Dives," known for scratch-made Belgian waffles.
Post-game, savor prime steaks and ribs amid sports memorabilia at Don & Charlie's, a Bob Uecker favorite. Or try food trucks outside Sloan Park in Mesa.
5. Keep It Inside the Park
Embrace the Cactus League spirit at one of the world's largest urban parks. South Mountain Park near Tempe offers 51 miles of trails—hike, bike, or drive to Dobbins Lookout for panoramic views.
For night games, opt for afternoon horseback rides in the McDowell Mountains, just 45 minutes from Phoenix.
6. Paint the Corners
Visit the Phoenix Art Museum, free on the second Sunday. Baseball fans will love the exhibit starting March 9, showcasing rare cards of Babe Ruth, Mickey Mantle, Honus Wagner, and more.
The historic Heard Museum (est. 1929) highlights American Indian art. Join First Fridays for free entry and the Phoenix art walk.
7. Shop Southwestern Style
Discover open-air malls, boutiques, and unique Southwestern shops across Arizona. In Old Town Scottsdale, try Saba's (since 1927) for custom cowboy boots, plus turquoise jewelry and lively eateries.
Tempe's Arizona Mills offers 150+ stores, plus Sea Life aquarium and GameWorks.
8. Trade in a Day at the Stadium for the Spa
Indulge at area resorts' 4- and 5-star spas. Treatments often incorporate Native American techniques like hot stones, jojoba oil, desert salts, and Sedona clays for true rejuvenation. 
You're Out (of Phoenix): Day Trips and Road Trips
9. Check the Grand Canyon Off Your Bucket List
The iconic Grand Canyon, four hours from Phoenix, demands at least two days. Short on time? Fly via helicopter from Sedona for Grand Canyon and Red Rock views. 
10. Feel the Energy (Vortexes)
Sedona's red rock formations, two hours north, offer postcard views. Join a rugged Pink Jeep Tour to see Lizard Head and Chimney Rock.
Known for spiritual vortexes sacred to Native Americans, guided tours or aura readings provide deeper experiences.
11. Head South for a Sip (or Two)
Southern Arizona's wine country, an hour south of Tucson, rivals European climates with rolling hills and varietals like Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon. Visit 12+ wineries in Sonoita, Elgin, and Wilcox for tastings under $5. 
12. Feel the Rush
Experience white-water rafting on the Salt River, 45 minutes from Phoenix. Navigate 2,000-foot canyons, Sonoran Desert scenery, and rapids like Maytag and Mescal Falls. 
13. Tortilla Flat -- Not Just Another Name for a Quesadilla
This historic town (pop. 6), an hour from Phoenix on the Apache Trail, began as a 1904 stagecoach stop. Enjoy sarsaparilla at the saloon, prickly pear gelato at the Country Store, or weekend Old West gunfights by the "Smokin' Guns." 
14. Float Your Boat
Rent houseboats on Lake Powell (near Utah) or Lake Havasu (near California) for 2+ nights, accommodating 8-12 with amenities like hot tubs. See Rainbow Bridge or the relocated London Bridge. 
Explore deals in the Phoenix area.
