How to Book a Hotel for Arizona's Spring Training

Arizona is the place to be from March 1 through April 2 if you like baseball. The Cactus League's spring training is underway, and no baseball fan wants to miss the opening acts. Hosting the teams are seven Arizona cities, each with something to offer spring training visitors.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

1. Book early. Spring training fills up the local hotels and motels fast. The earlier you book your spot, the better. Set your budget, too, so you don't book a luxurious spa hotel in November when your financial situation in March is more Motel 8.
2. Consider booking a room in Phoenix or Glendale if you're a fan of the Royals or Rangers. They play in the northwestern town of Surprise. You can find some lodging in Surprise, but if you want a bit more to do after the game, the cities of Phoenix and Glendale are for you.
3. Stay in Scottsdale to cheer for the Giants. If you can afford it, the Phoenician and the James hotel are two swanky places to stay, relax, eat and drink after the game.
4. Book at the Holiday Inn Express or La Quinta if you choose to stay in Peoria to see the Padres. Alternatively, Phoenix is a short drive away and gives you more options.
5. Catch the Oakland A's in Phoenix along with the Brewers. Some people prefer to avoid the city by staying outside of Phoenix in nearby Maryvale.
6. Find the L.A. Angels in Tempe, a college town with a mix of elegant and frugal lodgings. Or visit next-door Mesa to catch the Cubs. You can get the full fan experience by staying at either the Best Western Dobson Ranch Inn, the Sheraton or the Holiday Inn.
7. Spend a few nights in Tuscon if you want to support the Chicago White Sox, Colorado Rockies and the Arizona Diamondbacks. Both the Hacienda Del Sol and Oakwood are places to stay close to the stadium.

Tips & Warnings

• Rent a car. Some hotels provide shuttles during the day to the stadiums, often for a small fee. If you want to see a bit more of Arizona than just the hotel and stadium, a car is your best bet, as public transportation in Arizona isn't common.
• Be sure you spend time visiting the sights or playing a round of golf.