American Family Fields of Phoenix Travel Guide

Craving some baseball in Arizona? American Family Fields of Phoenix gives you a modern baseball experience as the spring training home of the Milwaukee Brewers. This Cactus League spot is tucked away on Phoenix’s west side, with tons of parking and easy access for visitors.

When you walk into this award-winning complex, you’ll notice a clean, modern ballpark that echoes Milwaukee’s stadium vibe, but you get to soak up that lovely Arizona sunshine. Outfield lawn seating lets you sprawl out on a blanket and catch the game in a laid-back way.

You’ll find the stadium about eight miles from Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, so it’s not a hassle for out-of-towners. The area around the ballpark sometimes gets mixed reviews on safety, but once you’re inside, it really feels like a safe haven for baseball fans who want spring training or regular season action in Phoenix.

Overview of American Family Fields of Phoenix

American Family Fields of Phoenix hosts the Milwaukee Brewers for spring training. Fans get an up-close, intimate look at preseason games, and players use state-of-the-art training facilities.

History and Significance

People called this place Maryvale Baseball Park before 2019. The City of Phoenix owns it, and the Brewers have set up shop here for spring training since 1998.

Back in 2019, the city invested $60 million in renovations that turned it into a top-tier Cactus League facility. The upgrades really put it on the map for its design and functionality.

You’ll find the ballpark on Phoenix’s west side, about eight miles from Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport. It’s a convenient spot and feels like a baseball oasis out in the desert.

Facility Features

The stadium holds about 10,000 fans, with traditional seating and popular outfield lawn spots. You can sit close to the field or just relax on the grass and watch from a distance.

The complex includes:

• The main stadium with modern amenities
• Six practice fields
• Clubhouse facilities that are up to date
• Training areas and batting cages
• Plenty of parking with easy access

They designed the ballpark to resemble the Brewers’ regular season home in Milwaukee, so it feels familiar for both players and fans. The facilities stay clean, and you’ll get good sightlines from pretty much anywhere.

Food runs the gamut from ballpark classics to some local Arizona flavors. Between innings, you’ll hear music and catch little entertainment bits that keep the vibe fun.

Milwaukee Brewers Spring Training Experience

Spring training at this park lets fans get surprisingly close to players and coaches in a chill setting. Brewers fans can spot their favorite players while enjoying Arizona’s unbeatable baseball weather.

Spring Training Schedule

The Brewers train at American Family Fields of Phoenix with the Cactus League, usually from late February through March.

Players start early, with workouts around 9:30 AM. You can watch these for free at the practice fields behind the main stadium. It’s the best time to see pitchers in the bullpen and position players working on fielding.

Games usually kick off at 1:05 PM, though you’ll see a night game pop up now and then. The Brewers spring training schedule usually has about 15 home games against other Cactus League teams.

Tickets won’t break the bank—most go from $15-45, depending on where you want to sit.

Autographs and Player Access

If you’re hoping to meet players, American Family Fields is a great spot for it. The best autograph window is 2-3 hours before game time, as players move between practice fields and the clubhouse.

Try standing along the walkways between fields or near the right field corner, where players often come and go. Brewers players, especially with young fans, are often happy to sign during spring training.

Bring your own stuff to be signed—baseballs, cards, jerseys—just have those markers ready and caps off to make it easy.

Arriving for batting practice (about 90 minutes before first pitch) gives you another shot at snagging an autograph. The stadium’s small size means even the “nosebleeds” are close to the field.

If you’re a serious collector, weekday games usually work better since crowds are lighter.

Seating and Ticket Information

American Family Fields of Phoenix has several seating options for spring training, with room for 7,000-10,000 fans. Picking the right seats can really shape your baseball experience, and knowing how to buy tickets can save you a few bucks.

Seating Options and Recommendations

You’ll find an intimate baseball experience here—really, there aren’t any bad seats. The main areas include:

• Reserved Box Seats – Right up close, behind home plate and the dugouts
• Bleacher Seats – Cheaper, along the first and third base lines
• Berm Seating – General admission on the lush outfield grass
• Shaded Areas – Behind home plate under the overhang (great for day games)

Families usually love the berm, since kids can roam around while adults watch. If you want a real seat with a back, go for reserved. For the best bang for your buck, third base side seats give you nice shade during afternoon games.

Ticket Purchasing Tips

Depending on who you ask, stadium capacity is between 7,000 and 10,000, so big games can sell out. Here’s how you can grab your seats:

1. Buy early – The best matchups and weekends go fast
2. Compare prices – Check the official MLB site and TickPick
3. Look at package deals – Multi-game bundles can save you money
4. Watch for promos – Weekday games are usually cheaper

You can save more by bringing your own snacks and drinks (double-check current policies). Show up early to wander the practice fields—sometimes you’ll spot players warming up or signing autographs before the first pitch.

Getting to American Family Fields of Phoenix

American Family Fields is pretty easy to reach, with several transportation options for Brewers fans. The stadium sits in western Phoenix and connects well to major highways.

Parking and Transportation

You’ll find a big paved parking lot near the main entrance. Use 51st Avenue between Osborn Road and Indian School Road to get in. For popular games, the lot fills up quickly, so plan to arrive 60-90 minutes before first pitch.

If you’re flying, the stadium is about eight miles from Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, so a taxi or rideshare will get you there fast.

Public transportation works, too. The closest bus stops are at Indian School Road & 53rd Avenue and 51st Avenue & Whitton Avenue. The nearest one is an easy 8-minute walk.

Tailgating Guidelines

Tailgating? Totally allowed, but only in certain spots in the parking lot. If you want a good tailgating spot, get there early—those go fast for big games.

A few rules:

• Keep grills away from cars and buildings
• No glass containers
• Fully put out all cooking stuff before heading in
• Clean up your area before you go

Arizona’s spring weather is usually sunny and warm, so tailgating can be a blast. Don’t forget water and sunblock.

Gates open about 90 minutes before game time, so you’ll have plenty of time to tailgate and still catch batting practice.

On-Site Amenities and Food Options

American Family Fields of Phoenix has a pretty solid lineup of food and comfort options for spring training. They mix classic ballpark eats with local Arizona dishes to boost your gameday experience.

Concessions and Local Eats

Concession stands are scattered all around the concourse, and once the game starts, lines usually move quickly. You won’t have to wander far—food’s available at several spots, so you can grab a bite and get back to the action.

You’ll find all the usuals: hot dogs, nachos, pretzels. But if you want something local, check out the carne asada tacos or burritos at the Mexican stand near third base. Some vendors even serve Vietnamese pho when it’s a bit cooler out.

You can bring your own food, too—personal-sized snacks like sandwiches and small bags of pretzels are fine. Each person can bring one sealed bottle of water, juice, or soda (32 oz. or less).

Bigger groups might want to reserve space in The Courtyard. It’s got high-top tables, chairs, and plenty of shade—perfect for hanging out with food and drinks.

Nearby Cactus League Stadiums

American Family Fields of Phoenix sits near several other spring training stadiums in the Phoenix metro area. The Cactus League has 10 stadiums hosting 15 MLB teams, and you can drive to any of them in about an hour.

Salt River Fields at Talking Stick

Salt River Fields is home to both the Arizona Diamondbacks and Colorado Rockies for spring training. It’s about 25 minutes east of American Family Fields, and opened in 2011 on Native American land.

The stadium offers:

• 11,000 seats
• Gorgeous mountain views
• Huge lawn seating areas
• Native American architectural touches

Fans rave about the amenities—wider concourses, great food, and lots of Native American art. It’s a unique spot in the Cactus League.

Getting there takes about half an hour on the Loop 101, but leave extra time on game days since traffic can pile up near the Salt River Fields at Talking Stick entrance.

Sloan Park and Wrigley Field Connections

Cubs fans make the trip to Sloan Park in Mesa, just 20 minutes east of American Family Fields. The stadium borrows a lot from Chicago’s Wrigley Field but adds some Arizona flavor.

Sloan Park includes:

• The largest Cactus League capacity (15,000)
• Chicago-style food vendors
• A “Wrigleyville West” feel
• Brick exterior that nods to Wrigley

The area around the park has really grown, with restaurants and hotels catering to Cubs fans. You’ll hear “Go Cubs Go” after wins, just like in Chicago.

Games sell out a lot, so buy tickets as early as you can. Parking keeps getting better, but arriving early is still smart. Mesa has several hotels within walking distance of Sloan Park.

Camelback Ranch and Other West Valley Parks

Camelback Ranch in Glendale hosts the Los Angeles Dodgers and Chicago White Sox just 15 minutes from American Family Fields. Spanning 141 acres, this complex feels more laid-back than most other spring training venues.

West Valley stadiums include:

• Camelback Ranch (Dodgers, White Sox)
• Peoria Sports Complex (Mariners, Padres)
• Surprise Stadium (Rangers, Royals)

Camelback’s lake system, walking paths, and the California-meets-desert architecture make it easy to wander and maybe even chat with a player or two before the game.

Peoria Sports Complex, about 25 minutes northwest, recently got a facelift, so fans now enjoy better amenities. Generally, these west valley parks offer easier parking and smaller crowds compared to the Scottsdale stadiums.

The Peoria Sports Complex started the two-team facility trend that most newer Cactus League parks have followed.

Scottsdale Stadium and Giants Games

Scottsdale Stadium sits right in downtown Scottsdale, giving you the most urban baseball vibe in the Cactus League. As the San Francisco Giants’ spring home, this cozy ballpark draws a loyal crowd.

Key features:

• Historic charm (oldest continuously used park)
• Steps from Old Town’s shops and restaurants
• Plenty of shaded seating
• Upgraded food stands and drinks

Expect to pay a little more for tickets and snacks here. But honestly, with all the bars and restaurants you can walk to before or after the game, it’s hard to beat the location.

The ballpark saw major renovations in 2020. Even with the new upgrades, Scottsdale Stadium keeps its classic feel while giving fans more comfort.

The Scottsdale Stadium experience spills out into the buzzing local entertainment district, so it’s a favorite for both locals and out-of-towners.

Lodging and Nearby Accommodations

Picking a good place to stay near American Family Fields of Phoenix puts you close to spring training games and plenty of other things to do. You’ll find several hotels just a short drive from the stadium.

Recommended Hotels and Resorts

La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Phoenix I-10 West offers comfortable rooms and pops up in lots of travel guides. It’s a practical pick for baseball fans thanks to easy interstate access.

Travelers on a budget might like Budget Inn and Motel 6 Phoenix, AZ – West for affordable options close to the action.

If you’re up for a bit of a drive, Hotel Valley Ho in Scottsdale brings a splash of mid-century modern style and resort perks.

Super 8 by Wyndham Phoenix West is another solid, wallet-friendly choice near the ballpark.

If you plan to stick around longer, check out hotels in neighboring cities. Glendale, Peoria, and Mesa all have more options within a 20- to 30-minute drive.

Things To Do Around Phoenix

Phoenix mixes outdoor fun and city life in a way that’s hard to resist. There’s always something to do before or after a Brewers game at American Family Fields.

Golf Courses and Outdoor Activities

Phoenix is a golfer’s dream with over 200 courses around the metro area. TPC Scottsdale, which hosts the Waste Management Phoenix Open, lets the public play its challenging Stadium Course.

If you love hiking, Camelback Mountain has iconic trails and killer city views. Echo Canyon trail is steep—maybe even a bit brutal—but totally worth it. Bring more water than you think you’ll need; that Arizona sun is no joke.

Desert Botanical Garden shows off the Sonoran Desert’s wild beauty. You can wander five themed trails across 140 acres.

Families should check out the Phoenix Zoo, home to over 3,000 animals. The Arizona Trail, with its native wildlife, is a big hit with kids.

Nightlife and Dining

Once the sun goes down, downtown Phoenix buzzes with bars and restaurants. Roosevelt Row Arts District packs in cool cocktail lounges and art galleries, all within a short stroll.

For real-deal Mexican food, Barrio Café serves up some of the best carne asada in town, plus creative twists on the classics. Watching them make guacamole tableside? Honestly, it’s part of the fun.

Craving Asian flavors? The Clever Koi dishes up tasty pho and inventive ramen bowls in a modern space.

Scottsdale’s Entertainment District is the spot for high-energy clubs and lounges. If you want something more chill, Old Town Scottsdale has Western-themed bars and patios that are perfect for people-watching.

Local Attractions and Day Trips

When you visit American Family Fields of Phoenix, you’ll find plenty to explore beyond the ballpark. The area is packed with architectural gems and scenic day trips that show off Arizona’s wild landscapes and rich culture.

Architectural Landmarks

Taliesin West was Frank Lloyd Wright’s winter home and the site of his architectural school, just a half-hour drive from American Family Fields. You’ll spot Wright’s signature desert-inspired style right away—the buildings seem to melt into the rocky landscape, almost as if they belong there.

If you’re already nearby, why not swing by the Arizona State Capitol and the Wesley Bolin Memorial Plaza next door? That copper dome really pops in the sunlight and reminds you of Arizona’s mining roots.

Craving something a bit different? The Arizona Buddhist Temple brings Japanese architecture into the mix, and its quiet gardens feel like a deep breath after the buzz of a baseball game.