LECOM Park Travel Guide

Thinking about catching the Pittsburgh Pirates during spring training? LECOM Park in Bradenton, Florida, brings you right up close to the action in a ballpark that’s dripping with history. If you know where to park, what to expect at the ballpark, and how to plan your visit, you’ll have a much smoother—and honestly, way more fun—trip to Pirates spring training.

Not only do the Pirates call this place home for spring training, but the Bradenton Marauders play here all season long. The venue’s on the smaller side, so you’re way closer to the field and the players than you’d ever be at a big-league stadium.

Getting to LECOM Park isn’t complicated, though parking gets tricky because the lots are small and fill up fast. The team runs some lots, and local businesses run others. If you’re coming from Interstate 75, just take Exit 220 (or 220B if you’re heading north) and follow S.R. 64 West—pretty straightforward.

Overview of LECOM Park

LECOM Park’s one of those rare spring training ballparks that still feels like a piece of baseball history, but with the modern touches you need for a comfortable day.

History and Architecture

LECOM Park first opened its gates in 1923 as McKechnie Field. Over the years, it’s changed a lot, but the historic charm still lingers. In 2013, they gave the place a major facelift, keeping that classic Spanish mission-style look—think terracotta roofs and stucco walls—while adding the stuff fans expect now. The upgrades respected the park’s nearly 100-year legacy but made sure you’re not stuck in the past when it comes to comfort.

Even after all the renovations, LECOM Park still feels cozy and old-school. You’re not just watching a game; you’re soaking in a century of baseball.

As the oldest stadium still hosting a Florida Grapefruit League team, the park hit its 100th birthday in 2023—a pretty amazing milestone.

Location and Ballpark Address

You’ll find LECOM Park in Bradenton, Florida, about 50 miles south of Tampa. It’s a great spot, especially if you’re staying anywhere along Florida’s Gulf Coast.

Here’s the address:

• 1611 9th Street West
• Bradenton, FL 34205

It’s tucked into a residential area, and you’ll find parking options nearby. Local restaurants and shops sit within walking distance, so you can grab a bite or stroll around before or after the game.

The Bradenton spot feels way more laid-back than the bigger spring training complexes. You get a real Florida baseball vibe, and the crowds aren’t overwhelming.

LECOM Park Capacity and Layout

With about 8,500 seats, LECOM Park keeps things intimate. Almost every seat gives you a solid view of the field.

One of the coolest features? The 19,000-square-foot boardwalk that wraps around the outfield. You can walk all the way around, find different angles, and hang out in spots you just don’t get at bigger parks.

Seating options include:

• Reserved grandstand seats
• Box seats close to the field
• Outfield boardwalk standing spots
• Some luxury and group areas (they’re limited, though)

The whole place just feels connected. During spring training, you can actually chat with players and coaches—something that’s next to impossible in a big stadium.

Spring Training at LECOM Park

When spring training rolls around, LECOM Park turns into a baseball lover’s dream. The stadium puts you just a few feet away from Pirates players as they get ready for the season, and you can even snag autographs if you time it right.

Pittsburgh Pirates Spring Training

Every year, the Pirates set up shop at LECOM Park for Grapefruit League action. They’ve been calling Bradenton their spring home since 1969, so it’s a real tradition for the team and the fans.

The ballpark only holds about 8,500 people, so you’re never far from the action. You can see the players’ faces, hear the crack of the bat, and even catch snippets of dugout chatter.

If you want the full experience, show up early. Gates open 2 to 2.5 hours before first pitch. That’s your window for batting practice and maybe an autograph or two.

Spring Training Schedule and Tickets

Spring training usually runs from mid-February to late March. The Pirates face off against other Grapefruit League teams, so you get to see a bunch of different MLB squads.

Tickets are way more affordable than regular-season games, usually falling between $15 and $40, depending on where you want to sit. You can get them from:

• The Pirates’ official site
• The LECOM Park box office
• Third-party ticket sellers

A few tips for picking your seat:

• Want shade? Try the third base line or the upper rows behind home plate.
• Best views: Check out the Kittyhawk Deck or the outfield boardwalk.
• On a budget? Grab a spot on the outfield berm—just bring a blanket.

Most games start at 1:05 PM, but you might catch a night game here and there.

Practice Fields and Bullpens

You’ve got two main ways to watch Pirates players work out. Pirate City, about five miles east of the ballpark at 1701 27th Street East, has four full-sized practice fields. The best part? Morning workouts are free to watch. Players rotate through drills—fielding, hitting, pitching—and the vibe is pretty relaxed. Great spot for autographs and photos.

At LECOM Park, the bullpens sit down the foul lines. Get there early on game day, and you can watch pitchers warm up just a few feet from your seat.

There’s not much shade by the practice fields, so don’t forget sunscreen, water, and a hat. Workouts usually run from 9:00 AM to noon—perfect if you want to squeeze in a morning session before the afternoon game.

Game Day Experience

LECOM Park brings you that old-school spring training feel. You get easy access to players, cheaper tickets, and a bunch of seating choices that balance comfort with history.

Seating Options: Bleachers to Premium

There’s something for everyone. Bleacher seats along the third base line are the cheapest, but they don’t have backs and can get pretty hot in the afternoon. Bring a cushion if you care about your back.

Grandstand seats behind home plate are covered and offer better views. These go fast, especially when the Yankees or Red Sox roll into town.

Looking for something a bit fancier? Try the Boardwalk area in the outfield. It’s been updated with a tiki bar and standing room spots with drink rails. It’s especially nice for evening games when the sun finally chills out.

Groups can book the Left Field Party Deck, which includes all-you-can-eat food and drinks. If you want this for spring training, book early—it fills up.

Ticket Pricing and Purchasing Tips

Most Pirates spring training tickets cost between $18 and $32, depending on who’s in town and what day it is. Digital tickets are the way to go—just easier all around.

For big games against teams like the Yankees, Red Sox, or Phillies, buy your tickets early. These sell out, sometimes weeks ahead.

Weekday afternoon games are usually less crowded and cheaper. Keep an eye out for promos like Senior Discount days (usually Tuesdays) or Military Appreciation games.

If you want to avoid roasting in the sun, pick seats on the first base side. They get more shade during those hot March afternoons.

Buying through the MLB Ballpark app saves you from third-party fees and makes entry a breeze.

Autographs and Player Interaction

If you’re hoping for autographs or a quick chat with a player, LECOM Park is perfect. Show up 2 to 2.5 hours before the game and hang out near the dugouts during batting practice.

Pirates players are usually pretty approachable before games, especially along the first base side and outfield during warmups. Bring your own pen—blue or black Sharpies work best for baseballs.

Morning workouts at Pirate City are another great time to meet players. These usually run from 9 AM to noon in February and early March.

If you’re bringing kids, have them bring their gloves. Players often toss balls into the stands between innings, and at LECOM Park, that happens way more than at big-league parks.

Teams and Notable Players

LECOM Park has hosted a bunch of teams over the years, but these days, two main organizations call it home. You get to see both major leaguers during spring training and up-and-coming prospects all summer.

Pittsburgh Pirates and Their Legacy

The Pittsburgh Pirates have trained at LECOM Park since 1969. This long connection means Bradenton turns into a Pirates haven every spring.

From February through March, the full Pirates roster gets ready for the season here. You’ll catch about 15 home games during spring training.

Pirates fans show up in their black and gold, and you can watch both established stars and rookies fighting for roster spots. The atmosphere is relaxed, and honestly, it’s just a fun way to see big-league talent up close.

LECOM Park sits about 50 miles south of Tampa, so it’s not a bad drive if you’re exploring the Gulf Coast.

Bradenton Marauders Minor League Team

The Bradenton Marauders, Single-A affiliate of the Pirates, play their regular season at LECOM Park. They started up in 2010 when the Pirates moved their Florida State League team to Bradenton.

Marauders games are super affordable—usually $6 to $12 a ticket. It’s a great family outing, and you’re watching the next wave of Pirates before they hit the big leagues.

A lot of today’s Pirates stars played for the Marauders. If you’re into prospects, these games are a chance to see future MLB talent before anyone else.

Marty the Marauder, the team’s mascot, keeps things lively between innings with games and giveaways.

Famous Players: Roberto Clemente & Willie Stargell

Roberto Clemente, the legendary right fielder from Puerto Rico, trained at LECOM Park his entire 18-year Pirates career. There’s a statue outside the ballpark honoring him—he racked up 3,000 hits and was known for his humanitarian work.

Clemente collected four batting titles and 12 Gold Gloves before dying in a plane crash in 1972 while delivering earthquake relief to Nicaragua.

Willie Stargell, or “Pops,” also prepped for the season here. He crushed 475 home runs over his Hall of Fame career with the Pirates.

Both guys were huge in the Pirates’ 1971 World Series win. Their stories are part of what makes the Pirates’ history so compelling.

You’ll find memorabilia for both Clemente and Stargell on the ballpark concourse—definitely worth a look if you’re a baseball history buff.

Parking, Accessibility, and Getting There

Getting to LECOM Park for Pirates spring training is pretty straightforward, but you’ll want to plan your parking ahead. The stadium offers a range of accessibility features so everyone can enjoy a day at the ballpark in Bradenton.

Parking Information and Tips

You’ll find limited parking just north of LECOM Park on 9th Street West in an outfield parking lot that costs $15 per vehicle. This lot fills up fast on game days, so it’s smart to show up at least 90 minutes before first pitch if you want a spot.

If you’re looking to save a few bucks, Motorworks Brewery offers parking for $5. It’s about a 10-minute walk to the stadium, and you can grab a beer before or after the game. Not a bad way to kick off or wrap up your day.

Street parking pops up in the neighborhoods around the ballpark, but watch out for residential restrictions—nobody wants a ticket. You’ll also see local businesses offering parking for $5-10, depending on the day and demand.

On weekends or for big games, carpooling or grabbing a rideshare like Uber or Lyft can make life a lot easier. Sometimes, skipping the parking hassle altogether is the way to go.

Directions and Public Transportation

From Interstate 75, just take the exit for Route 64 and head west until you hit 9th Street West—hang a left and you’re there. If you’re headed to Pirate City instead, exit I-75 and make your way to 1701 27th Street East.

To get between LECOM Park and Pirate City, drive west on 17th Avenue, then turn right onto US 41, and take a left at the first light onto 26th Avenue East. Stay on that road until you reach 27th Street.

The Manatee County Area Transit (MCAT) runs limited bus service nearby. Route 3 stops close to the stadium, with buses coming about every half hour on weekdays.

Uber and Lyft work well in Bradenton and the Suncoast area. There’s a designated pickup and drop-off spot right by the main entrance on 9th Street West.

Accessibility Features

LECOM Park includes accessible seating throughout the stadium, with companion seats right next to wheelchair spaces. These spots offer great views and room for mobility devices.

The main parking lot has accessible spaces, but they go to the early birds. You’ll need a valid permit or license plate to use them.

You can borrow assistive listening devices at the Guest Services booth behind home plate. Just bring a valid ID, and they’ll lend you what you need.

Accessible restrooms are easy to find on the main concourse and boardwalk area. All concession stands have lower counter sections for wheelchair users, which is a thoughtful touch.

Service animals are welcome in the ballpark, following ADA guidelines. Stadium staff go through regular training on accessibility, so they can help out with any needs.

Nearby Attractions and Activities

Bradenton packs in plenty to do beyond the ballpark. You’ll find all kinds of dining, artsy spots, and outdoor adventures within a short drive from LECOM Park.

Dining and Local Breweries

Motorworks Brewing is easily one of Bradenton’s best craft breweries. Their huge beer garden comes alive on weekends with live music and food trucks. Grab a pint of V Twin Vienna Lager or maybe the Intellectual Property Ale if you’re feeling adventurous.

If you’re hungry, downtown Bradenton has a bunch of restaurants near the Riverwalk. Pier 22 stands out for its waterfront views and fresh seafood—hard to beat that combo.

For something quick and casual, O’Bricks Irish Pub or Poppo’s Taqueria are solid picks before or after the game. Most places nearby get pretty busy during spring training, so it’s smart to make a reservation if you can.

Cultural and Family-Friendly Attractions

The Village of the Arts is a quirky neighborhood full of restored cottages that now house galleries, studios, and cozy cafes. Local artists show off their work here, and the first Friday and Saturday of each month bring lively art walks.

The Bishop Museum Of Science And Nature is a hit with families. You’ll find interactive exhibits, a planetarium, and even a manatee rehab center where you can get a close look at these gentle creatures.

Mixon Fruit Farms offers tram tours through their orange groves. You can taste fresh citrus, check out their wildlife refuge, or just chill with homemade ice cream at the café.

If you need some fresh air, the Riverwalk along the Manatee River is perfect. It’s a 1.5-mile paved path with playgrounds, splash pads, and fishing spots.

Things to Do in the Sarasota Area

The Sarasota area, just south of Bradenton, is packed with world-class beaches and cultural gems. Siesta Key Beach, with its ridiculously soft white sand, almost always lands on “best beaches” lists.

The Ringling Museum complex is worth a chunk of your day. It’s got a massive art collection, a circus museum, and the Ca’ d’Zan mansion, which was circus king John Ringling’s winter home.

If you’re into the outdoors, kayaking through the mangrove tunnels at Robinson Preserve is a blast. You might spot dolphins, manatees, and a ton of birds.

St. Armands Circle in Sarasota offers upscale shopping and dining in a laid-back, open-air setting. It’s only about a 30-minute drive from LECOM Park, so not a bad detour.

Comparing LECOM Park to Other Spring Training Ballparks

Florida’s Grapefruit League has some great ballparks, but LECOM Park has built a reputation as a fan favorite. If you’re planning a baseball trip, it helps to see how it stacks up to others nearby.

Nearby Ballparks: Ed Smith Stadium and Charlotte Sports Park

LECOM Park sits in a sweet spot for baseball fans. Ed Smith Stadium is only 13 miles away, so catching both Pirates and Orioles games in one trip is totally doable.

Charlotte Sports Park, where the Tampa Bay Rays play, is about 45 minutes south. The drive itself is pretty scenic, winding along the Gulf Coast.

Each park brings its own vibe. Ed Smith Stadium rocks Mediterranean architecture that fits right in with Sarasota. Charlotte Sports Park feels more modern and has a cool boardwalk-style outfield.

Honestly, the areas around Ed Smith and Charlotte Sports Park feel a bit more developed than the sometimes sketchy neighborhoods near LECOM Park. If you’re looking for lively entertainment districts, those parks might have the edge.

LECOM Park vs Arizona’s Cactus League Venues

LECOM Park stands out quite a bit from Arizona’s Cactus League ballparks, both in atmosphere and how you actually get to experience a game. In Arizona, most of the Cactus League venues sit close together around Phoenix, so catching more than one game in a day is pretty easy if you’re up for it. LECOM, on the other hand, takes a bit more planning if you want to pair your visit with other Grapefruit League sites.

There’s something about the historical charm of LECOM Park—built back in 1923—that you just don’t get with the newer Arizona stadiums. And honestly, the shade at LECOM is a real perk, especially when you compare it to those wide-open, sun-baked Arizona parks. Sitting through an afternoon game feels a lot more doable.

Weather? That’s another story. Florida brings the humidity, while Arizona’s all about that dry heat. It changes the whole vibe of the day. Most years, March temperatures at LECOM feel a bit more comfortable, though you do have to watch out for rain more often.

The training complexes feel different too. The Pirates City complex has four practice fields, each named after a Pirates legend. Fans get to hang out closer to the action—something you don’t always find at those bigger Arizona facilities.