Ed Smith Stadium Travel Guide

Ed Smith Stadium in Sarasota gives baseball fans an ideal spot for a spring getaway to catch the Baltimore Orioles during their training season. The staff always seems genuinely friendly, and you’ll feel welcome from the start, but honestly, parking can get a little confusing—especially if you just trust your GPS. If you want the best spring training experience, show up early, wander the stadium grounds, and definitely bring sunscreen. Florida sun doesn’t mess around, even in spring.

While you’re planning your trip, don’t just think about the stadium—Sarasota itself really adds to the baseball vibe. The Legacy Trail and Marina Park are close by, so it’s easy to mix in some outdoor exploring with your ballgame. Ed Smith Stadium sits just outside downtown Sarasota, so you’ve got plenty of choices for food and entertainment before or after the game.

Getting to the stadium is pretty straightforward if you follow the right route. Coming from the north? Just take I-75 to exit 213 (University Parkway), head west, then hang a left on Tuttle Avenue and you’re there. Oh, and don’t bother bringing a drone—this is a “No Drone Zone”. They’re strict about that for everyone’s safety.

Overview of Ed Smith Stadium

Ed Smith Stadium is home to the Baltimore Orioles for spring training in Sarasota, Florida. The ballpark gives fans a really up-close way to enjoy baseball, plus you get all the modern comforts you’d expect.

History and Architecture

Ed Smith Stadium opened back in 1989 for the Chicago White Sox’s spring training. Later, the Sarasota Red Sox minor league team played here until the Orioles moved in for 2010.

When the Orioles took over, they kicked off a $31 million renovation. That makeover totally changed the vibe, making the old stadium feel a lot like Camden Yards up in Baltimore. They added Mediterranean touches like white stucco and green tile roofing to fit Sarasota’s style.

You’ll find about 8,500 seats, so the place feels cozy and you’re never far from the action. The concourse is lined with Orioles memorabilia and displays that highlight both the team and Sarasota’s baseball past.

Location and Accessibility

Ed Smith Stadium sits right in the heart of Sarasota at the City of Sarasota Sports Complex, 2700 12th Street.

Driving there is simple enough. If you’re coming from the north, take I-75 to exit 213, head west to Tuttle Avenue, turn left, and you’ll spot the stadium on your right. Parking can fill up fast during spring training, so don’t count on snagging a spot if you roll in late.

The Sarasota County Area Transit (SCAT) bus stops nearby, and rideshare apps like Uber or Lyft make getting to the game a breeze.

With beaches, downtown restaurants, and cultural spots nearby, it’s easy to turn a baseball outing into a full Sarasota experience.

Baltimore Orioles Spring Training Experience

Spring training with the Orioles lets fans get closer to the team than you ever could during the regular season. The relaxed vibe and that Florida sunshine make Ed Smith Stadium a pretty great place for a baseball escape.

Orioles Spring Training Schedule

The Baltimore Orioles start spring training in February and keep it rolling through March. Games usually kick off in late February after pitchers and catchers report. The 2025 Spring Training season brings home games at Ed Smith Stadium against a bunch of Grapefruit League teams.

You can buy tickets at the box office (Monday through Friday, 10 am to 3 pm) or online through the Orioles’ site.

Most weekday games start at 1:05 pm, but weekends sometimes change things up, so always check the schedule before you go. Big games against the Yankees or Red Sox? Those sell out fast.

Spring Training Atmosphere

Orioles spring training feels way more laid-back and personal than a regular season game. Ed Smith Stadium holds about 8,500 fans, so you get a lively crowd without the chaos of a huge stadium.

Because of the netting, getting autographs at home games can be tough. Some fans swear by visiting away games at other stadiums for better autograph luck.

You’ll find the usual ballpark food—hot dogs, cold beer, all that good stuff. Come early if you want to walk the concourse or catch batting practice.

Weather-wise, expect warm and sunny, but sudden showers do happen. A hat, sunscreen, and maybe a light jacket for night games will save you.

Most of the crowd is either Baltimore transplants or Orioles fans on vacation, so you’ll see a sea of orange and hear plenty of friendly chatter.

Stadium Seating and Ticket Information

Ed Smith Stadium has seating for pretty much any preference or budget. Knowing the layout and how to buy tickets makes your spring training day a lot smoother.

Seating Chart and Options

The stadium’s got comfy green seats all over the grandstand—many actually came from Camden Yards and have cup holders. Pick your spot based on how close you want to be.

Premium seats behind home plate give you the best views but they’re in high demand and cost more.

The baseline sections stretch from infield to outfield and give great sightlines. If you want shade in the afternoon, third base sections are usually your best bet to avoid the sun.

Outfield seats are more relaxed and budget-friendly, perfect for families or anyone who wants extra space.

Before you buy, check out the interactive seating chart to see the view from your seat.

How to Purchase Tickets

Buying Orioles spring training tickets is easy. The official MLB website is the safest bet, letting you see what’s available and pick your seats.

Ticket prices shift based on:

• Who the Orioles are playing (Yankees and Red Sox games are pricier)
• Day of the week (weekends cost more)
• Where you sit
• Game time

If you want the best seats or are eyeing a big matchup, grab tickets early. Those games disappear fast.

If the official site is sold out, SeatGeek and other resale platforms sometimes have last-minute tickets, but expect to pay a bit more.

Looking to save? Go for weekday games or matchups against less popular teams—they’re cheaper and usually have more seats left.

Parking and Transportation

Getting to Ed Smith Stadium takes a little planning. Here’s what you’ll want to know about getting there and parking.

Arrival and Parking Tips

Don’t just trust Google Maps for parking—it’s been known to lead people in circles. The official parking lot sits on 12th Street, across from the stadium, in a big grass field. Navigation apps might try to send you somewhere else.

If you’re coming from I-75, take exit 213 (University Parkway), head west, then turn left on Tuttle Avenue and go south. The stadium is right at 12th and Tuttle.

Parking usually costs about $10 per car. There’s a small paved/grass lot behind left field, but most folks use the big lot on 12th. During spring training, it fills up fast—so don’t roll in at the last minute.

Public Transportation Options

If you’d rather skip driving, Uber and Lyft are super convenient for getting to Ed Smith Stadium. A lot of people go this route and avoid parking headaches.

Taxis are easy to find in Sarasota, and they’ll drop you right at the entrance—handy if you’re staying nearby and don’t want to deal with your car.

Sarasota does have public buses, but getting to the stadium might mean a few transfers or a walk. If you’re thinking about it, check the Sarasota County Area Transit (SCAT) schedule first.

Some hotels offer shuttle rides to spring training games, especially for bigger groups. Ask your hotel if they run a shuttle to Ed Smith Stadium during baseball season—it never hurts.

Facilities and Amenities

Ed Smith Stadium makes game day comfortable with plenty of modern touches mixed with classic Florida architecture. It’s a nice blend, honestly.

Concessions and Dining

Everything runs on a cashless system, so don’t bring cash for food or parking—just cards.

Food-wise, you’ll find lots of choices. Boog’s BBQ is a fan favorite, tucked near the outfield picnic tables. Orioles legend Boog Powell started it, and it’s worth a stop.

Standard ballpark snacks—hot dogs, burgers, nachos—are all over the place.

You can’t bring in outside food, drinks, glass bottles, cans, or alcohol. Hard-sided coolers, thermoses, and umbrellas are also a no-go. They check bags at the gate.

Practice Fields and Activities

The Orioles use Twin Lakes Park for training during spring. It’s not right at the stadium, but if you’re a fan who likes watching morning workouts, it’s worth a visit.

The practice fields are the best spot to catch players up close and maybe snag an autograph before afternoon games.

Families will find special areas for kids to play and burn off energy around the ballpark.

To see where everything is, check the official amenities map on the Orioles’ site. It lays out all the facilities on both levels.

Nearby Attractions and Ballparks

Ed Smith Stadium sits near plenty of great entertainment and other spring training venues, so extending your baseball trip is a no-brainer.

Other Spring Training Ballparks

You’ve got several spring training parks within a short drive. LECOM Park in Bradenton (formerly McKechnie Field) is the Pirates’ spring home, about 43 miles away. It’s an old-school park with great sightlines.

CoolToday Park in Venice is where the Braves play, roughly 30 miles out. It’s a newer spot with all the modern perks and keeps things fan-friendly.

Charlotte Sports Park is 30-40 minutes south—worth the drive if you’re a serious baseball fan. You’ll find it at 18800 W Villages Pkwy in Venice, and it’s another great place to catch spring training action.

Exploring Sarasota and Bradenton

Sarasota has a ton to offer beyond just baseball. The City Sightseeing Trolley Tour gives you a fun, breezy look at the area’s main sights. If you’re into water adventures, the HydroCats sightseeing tour lets you zip along the coastline in a way that’s hard to beat.

Hungry? Restaurants near Ed Smith Stadium make it easy to stick around after a game. You’ll find everything from laid-back sports bars to fancier spots, and most are just a short stroll from the ballpark.

Bradenton’s downtown has its own energy, with riverfront parks and interesting shops. Between Sarasota and Bradenton, you’ll run into some of the Gulf Coast’s best beaches—great for unwinding before or after a game.

Teams and Rivals in the Grapefruit League

Every spring, 15 MLB teams gather in Florida for the Grapefruit League, and that means plenty of classic matchups and a chance to get close to some of the sport’s biggest names.

League Overview

The Florida Grapefruit League brings together 15 Major League Baseball teams for spring training all over Florida. Teams spread out from the Tampa Bay area to the Atlantic coast.

The Baltimore Orioles set up shop at Ed Smith Stadium every spring. They usually kick off their Grapefruit League schedule in late February and often open against teams like the Pittsburgh Pirates.

You’ll also find the Boston Red Sox training down in Fort Myers, the Tampa Bay Rays in Port Charlotte, and the Atlanta Braves at CoolToday Park in North Port. The league includes teams like the Cincinnati Reds and Chicago White Sox, plus several Florida ballparks hosting multiple teams.

Notable Opponents

When you visit Ed Smith Stadium, you’ll catch classic baseball rivalries in a laid-back atmosphere. Yankees-Red Sox games? Still packed, even in March. When those teams roll into Sarasota, tickets go fast.

The Pittsburgh Pirates show up a lot early in the schedule—they’re almost a spring training staple for the Orioles. Regional games against the Tampa Bay Rays get lively, thanks to the short trip between stadiums.

Down at the Jupiter complex, both the Marlins and Cardinals train, so they’re frequent visitors too. Games against big-name teams or recent World Series contenders usually draw the biggest crowds.

If you want the most memorable game day, try to catch a matchup with a historic rival or a team with a big traveling fanbase.

Travel Planning Tips

A little planning goes a long way when you’re heading to Ed Smith Stadium. Here are some tips for picking the right dates and finding a place to stay in Sarasota.

Best Times to Visit

The sweet spot for visiting Ed Smith Stadium is during Orioles spring training, running from late February through March. Most games start at 1:05 PM, and afternoons are the norm.

Weekday games are usually less crowded than weekends. If you want to see the full roster of players, aim for early to mid-March—starters get more playing time then.

Spring weather in Sarasota is hard to beat, hanging between 60°F and 80°F. Still, don’t forget sunscreen and a hat; the Florida sun doesn’t mess around, even in March.

Check the Orioles’ 2025 spring training schedule early. Tickets for big matchups like Yankees or Red Sox games tend to disappear quickly.

Where to Stay

You’ve got plenty of places to stay near Ed Smith Stadium. Hotel Indigo Sarasota sits just 2 miles away and brings a boutique vibe, plus a pool and on-site dining.

If you’re watching your budget, Comfort Inn & Suites and Best Western Plus are both about a 10-minute drive from the stadium and throw in free breakfast.

Want to branch out beyond baseball? Downtown Sarasota puts you close to restaurants, shops, and The Legacy Trail. The Aloft Sarasota and Westin Sarasota both make solid picks downtown.

Bradenton is only about 20 minutes north and offers more hotel options. It’s also where the Pirates train at LECOM Park, so if you’re planning to catch games at both stadiums, it’s pretty convenient.

Book your room at least 3-4 months out—spring training really draws a crowd from all over.

Fan Experience and Community Engagement

Ed Smith Stadium isn’t just about baseball; it’s where fans and players actually connect. The stadium’s vibe encourages community and gives you experiences you just won’t get during the regular season.

Meeting Players and Autograph Opportunities

The Baltimore Orioles make it surprisingly easy for fans to interact at Ed Smith Stadium. Spring training is your best shot at meeting players—way more accessible than during the regular season.

If you’re hoping for autographs, show up early—90 minutes before first pitch is smart. Hang out near the field-level seats by the home dugout or bullpen. A lot of players sign before practice or after morning workouts.

There are set autograph areas where players sometimes stop after games. Bring your own baseball, program, or photo, and don’t forget a pen—blue or black for balls, black for photos.

Be polite and keep it quick. A simple, friendly approach usually gets you a better result.

Special Events and Promotions

Ed Smith Stadium packs the spring schedule with fan events and extras. The Orioles set up promotions that make the day more than just baseball.

Some favorites:

• Giveaway Days: Free hats, shirts, or bobbleheads
• Theme Games: Honoring military, first responders, or local heroes
• Kids’ Days: Activities and fun for younger fans

You can also take eco-friendly stadium tours that highlight the “LEED” green building features throughout the park.

Around the concourse, you’ll find face painting, speed pitch games, and photo ops with mascots. Check the Orioles’ spring training website for the latest on special events.

Resources and Additional Information

Good info makes planning your Ed Smith Stadium trip a lot easier. Here’s what stands out from visitor feedback and some extra reading if you want to dig deeper.

Transparency Report and User-Identified Themes

Visitors often mention a few things about Ed Smith Stadium. Parking can be tricky—skip Google Maps and just head for the official grass lot on 12th Street.

People rave about the stadium staff. Ushers and other employees get high marks for their friendliness and help during games.

Getting there is pretty simple if you’re downtown—Breeze bus route No. 6 drops you less than 2 miles from the stadium.

Fans who care about the environment appreciate the stadium’s Go Green features.

Further Reading and Sources

The Orioles Spring Training A to Z Guide covers all the stadium basics, from amenities to the code of conduct.

Want to check your seats before you buy? The 3D Virtual Seating Map helps you pick the best spot for your budget and view.

For more on Ed Smith Stadium’s history and what to expect, the Spring Training Connection guide is a solid resource.

If you want to use mobile payments, look up O’s Pay details on the Orioles’ official site before you go.

Comparison: Grapefruit League vs. Cactus League

MLB’s spring training splits into two distinct leagues, each with its own quirks, locations, and fan vibes.

Key Differences

The Grapefruit League is all Florida, while the Cactus League happens in Arizona. That alone changes a lot for fans.

Travel Distance: Cactus League ballparks cluster around Phoenix, so all 15 teams train within about 50 miles. You could, if you’re ambitious, catch more than one game a day.

Weather: Both places offer a break from winter, but Arizona’s got more sun, less humidity, and fewer rainouts.

Stadium Experience: Florida spreads its teams out over 13 stadiums in 12 cities, so you’ll see a lot of different settings—but you’ll spend more time driving.

Team Distribution: Most East Coast teams stick to Florida, while West Coast teams train in Arizona, though there are a few exceptions.

Popular Spring Training Destinations

Grapefruit League Highlights:

Fort Myers really pops for spring training. Many folks say it’s got the best ballpark atmosphere in Florida, and Red Sox fans fill the seats at every game. The Twins play here too, so the city gets plenty of baseball energy.

Tampa pulls in crowds at Steinbrenner Field for Yankees games. There’s baseball, sure, but you can also hit the beaches or find something fun to do nearby.

In Clearwater, Phillies fans get up close to the action at Spectrum Field. The beaches are stunning and just a quick drive away—honestly, it’s tough to beat that combo.

Cactus League Favorites:

Scottsdale Stadium buzzes when the San Francisco Giants play. The area around the ballpark is lively, packed with great food and nightlife. It’s hard not to get swept up in the vibe.

Sloan Park in Mesa feels like a mini Wrigley Field and Cubs fans absolutely show up in force. The crowds make every game feel special.

Salt River Fields gives both the Arizona Diamondbacks and Rockies a home with mountain views and plenty of modern comforts. The scenery alone makes it worth a visit.