Spring Training: Cactus League 2024
As a family of baseball enthusiasts, my husband’s family decided it would be a great idea to head out to Phoenix for a week and catch some Cactus League Spring Training games!
We opted to rent a Chrysler Pacifica and set out west to Arizona. On our journey, we spent our first night in Williams, Arizona, just south of the Grand Canyon. After a restful night's sleep, we headed north to explore Grand Canyon National Park. It was truly awe-inspiring! The park was well-organized with spacious walking paths, a large visitor center, cafe, and gift shop.
The sight of the canyon was breathtaking and left us with cherished memories. Photos simply couldn't capture the vastness of the canyon.
After spending the morning at the Canyon, we drove south to Phoenix. We booked an Airbnb in Litchfield that was exceptionally clean and spacious. The Litchfield Park neighborhood was charming and perfect for strolls. On our first evening there, Collin and I took Nolan for a walk around the lake to see the ducks swimming.
Our first full day in Phoenix was spent at the Wildlife World Zoo and Aquarium. From seals to giraffes to flamingos and big cats, it offered a fantastic experience for a reasonable admission price. We got plenty of steps in, and the little ones enjoyed a refreshing nap in the cool breeze.
That evening, we attended the first of many games, Giants vs. The Reds at Goodyear Park. Opting for tickets on the grass allowed us to lay down blankets and make the babies comfortable. While at the game, we were treated to the sight of the SpaceX launch in Southern California, adding to the excitement of the evening in true Arizona/Area 51 tradition.
The other games we attended during our stay included the Rockies vs. the Mariners at Peoria and the Angels vs. the Royals at Surprise. All the stadiums were clean and had helpful staff who provided accommodations for privacy when feeding the babies. Overall, a highly recommended experience!
On our way back home, we drove through Sedona, Arizona, and I instantly fell in love with the scenery! It felt like stepping into Radiator Springs, with its beautiful hills and a scenic drive through the bustling downtown strip filled with shops and restaurants. We're already planning another trip to explore the Sedona valley and its excursions further.
The final stop of our trip was a day in Flagstaff for some skiing at Snowbowl. The mountain, slopes, and lodge were bustling with live music, delicious food, and clean accommodations, making it a lively environment for everyone.
Overall, our trip to Phoenix and its surrounding areas was nothing short of fantastic. From the breathtaking views of the Grand Canyon to the excitement of the Cactus League games, each moment was filled with unforgettable experiences. Exploring the diverse attractions, enjoying the lively atmosphere of the stadiums, and immersing ourselves in the beauty of Sedona and Flagstaff made for a truly memorable vacation. As we reflect on our time in Arizona, we're already looking forward to our next adventure in this captivating region.