CACTI Park of the Palm Beaches Travel Guide

Thinking about catching some spring training baseball in Florida? CACTI Park of the Palm Beaches sprawls across 160 acres with 13 fields where you can watch the Houston Astros and another Major League Baseball team get ready for the season ahead. You’ll find the modern complex at 5444 Haverhill Road in West Palm Beach, and on game days, it’s pretty easy to find parking in two big grass lots—no endless circling required.

But hey, there’s more than just baseball here. The park hosts all kinds of sports—softball, football, soccer, rugby—pretty much year-round. Want to see more than the games? Tours run all year; just call the main office at 561.500.4487 and they’ll set you up with a behind-the-scenes look at the pros’ training facilities.

Overview of CACTI Park of the Palm Beaches

CACTI Park gives you a modern spring training experience with tons of sports fields, easy access, and amenities for die-hard fans and casual visitors alike.

Location and History

You’ll find CACTI Park at 5444 Haverhill Road in West Palm Beach, Florida. The 160-acre complex sits right in Palm Beach County, and you can get there quickly from main roads like Palm Beach Lakes Boulevard.

The park acts as the spring training and player development home for both the Houston Astros and the Washington Nationals, so it’s a must-visit for baseball fans during pre-season.

On game days, you can grab parking in two grass lots. The stadium’s location puts you close to other Palm Beach attractions, so you could easily mix in some baseball fun with exploring South Florida.

Park Layout and Facilities

The 160-acre complex with 13 fields caters to baseball, softball, football, soccer, and rugby.

At the center, the main stadium offers solid views from every seat. Visitors often mention:

• A smart stadium layout
• Comfy seating
• Good food choices at the concessions
• Clean facilities throughout

Practice fields circle the main stadium, so you can get close to the action during spring training. The layout lets you wander between areas pretty easily, which makes for a full baseball experience.

Unique Features

CACTI Park stands out for its modern amenities and fan-friendly design. They provide info on both teams that call the park home, plus details about Palm Beach County and West Palm Beach.

People often mention how friendly the staff are—they really make your visit smoother and more enjoyable.

The park’s design gives you rare access to players during practice. You might snag an autograph or photo, which is tough at regular-season MLB games.

Open concourses and shaded areas take advantage of Florida’s weather, so you can actually enjoy the sunshine without roasting. The breezy layout keeps things comfortable between innings.

Getting to CACTI Park of the Palm Beaches

A little planning goes a long way for a smooth trip to CACTI Park. The ballpark has a few entrances, plenty of parking, and you can get there from several major roads in Palm Beach County.

Directions and Accessibility

Getting to CACTI Park from Interstate 95 is pretty straightforward. If you’re on I-95 South, you can exit at Okeechobee Boulevard or 45th Street.

From Okeechobee Boulevard:

• Head west to Haverhill Road
• Turn right on Haverhill Road and you’re there

From 45th Street:

• Similar deal, just a different starting point

The ballpark offers 300 accessible parking spaces from the Haverhill Road entrance, spread across three parking areas.

If you’re coming from downtown West Palm Beach, expect about a 10-15 minute drive—super convenient for locals and tourists alike.

Parking Information

CACTI Park gives you lots of parking choices. The main entrance is off Haverhill Road, and signs will guide you to the right lot.

Some quick parking tips:

• Arrive early during spring training or big events
• Have your payment ready (cash or card works)
• Listen to the attendants—they keep things moving

Parking lots are divided into sections, and accessible spaces are right by the Haverhill Road entrance. All 300 accessible spots are spread across the three main lots.

For regular season games, parking usually opens 2-3 hours before first pitch. If you live in Jupiter or northern Palm Beach County, try the northern routes to skip downtown traffic.

Nearby Transportation Options

Most folks drive to CACTI Park, but you do have other ways to get there.

Public Transit:

• Palm Tran buses stop near the ballpark
• Uber and Lyft have easy drop-off/pick-up spots
• Taxis are always around in Palm Beach County

If your hotel’s downtown, check for:

• Hotel shuttles (ask the concierge)
• Group transportation if you’re with a crowd

During spring training or special events, some hotels and local businesses run shuttles to the park. Handy if you’re staying in Jupiter or want to skip the parking hassle.

Events and Activities at CACTI Park

CACTI Park keeps things lively all year, hosting pro baseball and community events that draw sports fans and families.

Spring Training Games

CACTI Park of the Palm Beaches is the spring training home for the Washington Nationals and Houston Astros. Games run from late February through March. You can grab tickets online from either team or straight from CACTI Park.

The stadium’s sightlines are great no matter where you sit, and premium seats come with shade—a must for those blazing Florida afternoons. Show up early to catch batting practice and maybe score an autograph.

The event calendar lists all upcoming games and promotions. Games against rivals like the Yankees or Red Sox tend to draw big crowds.

Family-Friendly Experiences

CACTI Park isn’t just for grown-up baseball fans. The place has interactive zones where kids can try pitching or batting.

Special family days feature:

• Face painting and balloon artists
• Kids running the bases after games
• Photo ops with team mascots
• Fireworks after some evening games

The park’s 13 fields and 160 acres host tournaments and community events throughout the year. Shade and cooling stations help everyone stay comfortable, especially when it’s hot.

Food stands have plenty for picky eaters, and there are kid-friendly menus alongside more adventurous options. Refillable water bottles are a good idea for staying hydrated.

Exploring Flora and Fauna

CACTI Park of the Palm Beaches isn’t just about sports. The park’s natural areas show off Florida’s unique plants and wildlife across 160 acres.

Native Cacti and Plants

You’ll spot an impressive collection of native Florida cacti here, especially prickly pear with its flat pads and colorful spring blooms. These tough plants produce edible fruits that turn a deep purple when ripe.

Plants like agave and yucca add dramatic shapes to the landscape. Informative plaques help you figure out what you’re looking at.

Keep an eye out for aloe vera patches in the garden areas. People have used these thick, gel-filled leaves for ages to treat burns and skin issues.

Sabal palms and saw palmetto shrubs offer shade and shelter for small wildlife all over the park.

Wildlife Watching

Plenty of wildlife call CACTI Park home. Early mornings are best if you want to spot great blue herons by the wetlands or ospreys flying overhead.

During nesting season, you might see sea turtles coming ashore on nearby beaches. The park works with local conservation groups to protect these sites.

Anoles and geckos zip across walkways all day. They’re harmless and help keep the bugs in check.

Butterflies and other pollinators love the wildflower areas, especially in spring and summer. Bring binoculars if you want a closer look.

Conservation Efforts

Park management runs programs to protect and restore natural habitats. They regularly remove invasive species and encourage native plant growth.

You can join monthly volunteer days to help plant natives or clean up natural areas. These usually last about three hours, and the park provides everything you need.

Signs around the park explain why Florida’s ecosystems matter. The irrigation system uses collected rainwater, which helps cut down on environmental impact.

Youth programs get kids learning about local ecology through guided walks and hands-on activities. These run during summer and school breaks.

The park’s lighting system minimizes disruption to wildlife, especially during sea turtle hatching season when bright lights can throw off the hatchlings.

Dining and Refreshments

Hungry? CACTI Park has you covered with a range of snacks and full meals both inside the stadium and nearby.

On-Site Restaurant Options

Concession stands at CACTI Park have a great food safety record, with zero violations in recent inspections. So, you can eat your ballpark food without worry.

If you want to watch the game while you eat, check out the full-service bar and food area with a seating rail that overlooks the field. Patio furniture and a great view—what’s not to like?

You’ll find all the ballpark classics on the concourse: hot dogs, nachos, pretzels, cold drinks, and beer.

If you have dietary restrictions, several stands offer vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options.

Nearby Dining in West Palm Beach

After the game, West Palm Beach has plenty of places to eat. Locals suggest checking out restaurants that stay open late.

Within a 10-minute drive, you’ll find casual spots for American classics, seafood, and quick bites—perfect for post-game hunger.

Downtown West Palm Beach (about 15 minutes away) has more upscale choices, outdoor seating, and cocktail menus. The Clematis Street area serves up everything from Italian to Asian fusion.

If you’re catching a day game and want breakfast first, there are coffee shops and breakfast joints open early near Palm Beach Lakes Boulevard.

Things to Do Near CACTI Park

CACTI Park puts you close to some of Palm Beach County’s best attractions. Whether you’re into wildlife, beaches, or exploring downtown, you’ll find plenty within a short drive.

Top Attractions in Palm Beaches

The Norton Museum of Art really stands out as a must-visit if you love culture. Its collection of American, European, and Chinese art is surprisingly impressive—there’s always something that catches your eye. Just a short drive away, McCarthy’s Wildlife Sanctuary lets you get up close with rescued animals in a conservation-focused setting.

Families usually gravitate toward the Palm Beach Zoo & Conservation Society and the hands-on exhibits at Cox Science Center and Aquarium. Both spots offer educational experiences that work for all ages, so you don’t have to worry about anyone getting bored.

If you’re after something a little different, check out Manatee Lagoon. You can actually watch manatees in their natural habitat. The place offers viewing areas and some interesting programs about manatee conservation.

Beaches and Waterfront Activities

Palm Beach County has some of Florida’s best coastlines—crystal-clear water, soft sand, all the good stuff. Municipal Beach is a popular pick, with easy amenities and gentle waves that are great for families.

If you love the water, you’ll find amazing snorkeling and diving at Phil Foster Park. The underwater snorkel trail is a local favorite, and the clear visibility means you’ll spot plenty of colorful marine life.

Want a bit more action? Local outfitters rent paddleboards and kayaks, so you can explore the intracoastal waterway at your own pace. The waters stay calm, which makes them perfect for beginners, and you get those Instagram-worthy views of waterfront mansions.

Peanut Island brings together history and fun. There’s a bunker built for President Kennedy, plus great snorkeling all around the island. The water is full of tropical fish, and if you’re lucky, you might spot a sea turtle or two.

Visiting Downtown and Jupiter

Downtown West Palm Beach is all about energy, especially around Clematis Street. You’ll find quirky shops, good places to eat, and plenty of nightlife. If you’re around on a weekend, the GreenMarket fills up with local produce and artisanal goods—honestly, it’s a vibe.

CityPlace, which folks now call Rosemary Square, mixes upscale shopping and dining in a Mediterranean-inspired plaza. Live music pops up regularly, adding to the festive feel.

Head north to Jupiter for a more relaxed pace. The Jupiter Lighthouse is a classic stop—climb up for sweeping views of the coastline and the intracoastal waterway. The climb is a bit of a workout, but the photo ops are worth it.

Baseball fans should check out spring training at Roger Dean Chevrolet Stadium in Jupiter. You’ll get close to the action and maybe even snag a player autograph if you’re lucky.

Historical and Cultural Significance

CACTI Park of the Palm Beaches isn’t just about baseball. The stadium actually ties into the community’s growth and even has a surprising military backstory that shaped the area.

Ballpark’s Role in the Community

CACTI Park of the Palm Beaches (which used to go by The Ballpark of the Palm Beaches) quickly became a central gathering spot when it opened. The stadium hosts spring training for the Houston Astros and Washington Nationals, so the area really comes alive—and local businesses definitely feel the boost.

Local schools often bring students for field trips to learn about sports management and how stadiums operate. The stadium also hosts all sorts of community events, not just baseball games.

The ballpark gets involved in charity work too, raising money with special events and during games. Tons of local businesses partner with the stadium, which helps the whole region.

Architects designed the ballpark to reflect Palm Beach’s style, so it doesn’t stick out like a sore thumb. Instead, it fits in with the area’s vibe.

World War II Legacy

The land beneath CACTI Park actually has a military past. Back in World War II, it was part of Morrison Field, a major Army Air Corps training base.

Thousands of military personnel trained here before heading overseas. The airfield processed over 45,000 aircraft during the war—pretty wild to imagine now.

Developers tore down most of the original military buildings when they built the stadium, but you’ll notice subtle nods to that history in the architecture.

There’s a small memorial plaque near the entrance that marks the site’s military significance. The transformation from military base to ballpark kind of sums up how Palm Beach County shifted from wartime industry to a tourism hotspot.

Every now and then, the concourse features local history exhibits with old photographs from the area’s military days.

Planning Your Visit

You’ll want to do a little planning before heading to CACTI Park of the Palm Beaches—there’s a lot to see, and a bit of prep makes for a smoother trip. The ballpark packs in plenty of activities and amenities if you know where to look.

Recommended Itinerary

Try to get to CACTI Park right when it opens. If you’re a baseball fan, head over to the practice fields early for a shot at autographs. The park covers 160 acres and has 13 fields, so there’s no shortage of things to explore.

Morning (9-11 AM):

• Check out the main stadium facilities
• Catch team practices
• Swing by the team shop for some gear

Midday (11 AM-2 PM):

• Grab lunch at a concession stand
• Wander through the exhibition areas
• Join in on pre-game activities

Afternoon/Evening:

• Watch the game (most start at 1:05 PM)
• Walk around the outfield between innings

If you feel like winding down after the game, a private boat cruise on the Palm Beach waterways is a great way to end the day.

Tips for Visitors

Keep in mind: the facility runs cashless now, so you’ll need a credit card for everything, even parking. There are two grass parking lots on game days.

What to bring:

• Sunscreen and a hat (the Florida sun doesn’t mess around)
• Light clothing (it gets hot—think 80-90°F)
• Refillable water bottle (seriously, stay hydrated)
• Binoculars if you want a closer look at the action

Food choices range from classic ballpark eats to some local Florida specialties. Prices are about what you’d expect at a sporting event, so plan your budget.

Weekday games (especially Tuesday and Wednesday) are usually less crowded. If you’re after a chill atmosphere, those are your best bet.

Travel Information for International Guests

If you’re visiting from abroad, you’ll probably want to fly into Palm Beach International Airport (PBI)—it’s only about 7 miles from the stadium. Some folks prefer Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International (FLL), which sits roughly 50 miles to the south, but that’s a bit of a trek.

When it comes to getting around:

• Renting a car gives you the most freedom (honestly, it’s what most people do)
• Uber and Lyft are everywhere, so those are easy
• Taxis work too, though they’re pricier—sometimes worth it for the convenience

You’ll find the stadium at 5444 Haverhill Road, West Palm Beach, Florida 33407. If you want to keep things simple, book your hotel in West Palm Beach or Palm Beach—makes the whole trip less of a hassle.

You can exchange currency at the airports or at major banks nearby. Most places take international credit cards, but it’s smart to carry a bit of cash for the little things.