Sloan Park Travel Guide

Thinking about catching the Chicago Cubs during spring training? Sloan Park in Mesa, Arizona, gives baseball fans a real taste of Cubs culture under that famous Arizona sun. The stadium mixes touches of Wrigley Field with 360-degree views and a location that makes planning your trip surprisingly easy.

At Sloan Park, you’ll find a lively atmosphere, great sight lines, and plenty of seating options—shaded seats, wide rows, and grass areas if you’re more into the laid-back vibe. The park serves as the spring training home of the Chicago Cubs, offering baseball lovers the chance to enjoy pre-season action in a much more intimate setting than those massive MLB stadiums.

While you’re soaking in Cubs baseball, it’s easy to check out other nearby attractions. The Visit Mesa website lists a bunch of ideas for things to do during your stay. Spring training usually starts in February, so you’ve got time to set up your baseball getaway at this fan-friendly ballpark.

Getting to Sloan Park

Sloan Park, where the Chicago Cubs gear up for the season in Mesa, Arizona, gives you a bunch of transportation options. Figuring out how to get there and where to park early on will save you some headaches and help you focus on the fun.

Directions and Transportation

You’ll find Sloan Park at 2330 West Rio Salado Parkway in Mesa. Flying in? Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport sits about 11 miles away.

If you’re using public transit, the Valley Metro Rail is a solid choice. Ride the rail to Sycamore/Main St. station, then hop on bus route 96 – Dobson. That’ll drop you within about 3/4 mile of the ballpark.

Uber and Lyft both operate here. The stadium marks the rideshare pickup area clearly, so you won’t miss it.

Driving from Phoenix? Take Loop 202 East to Loop 101 North, exit at Rio Salado Parkway, and head east. Coming from Scottsdale, take Loop 101 South to Rio Salado Parkway and head west.

Parking Information

Sloan Park gives you plenty of parking for Cactus League games and other events. The main lots wrap around the stadium and offer the closest access.

Parking usually runs $5-10, depending on the lot and the event. You can pay with cash or card at most lots. If you’re going to a sold-out spring training game, get there at least 90 minutes early for a better parking spot.

You can find free street parking in the neighborhoods nearby, but you’ll need to walk 10-15 minutes to the stadium. Mesa Riverview shopping area sometimes has extra spots—just double-check for any posted restrictions.

Fans with mobility concerns can use accessible parking spaces in every official lot. You’ll need a valid disability placard or license plate.

Game Day Experience

Watching the Cubs at Sloan Park during spring training means you’re getting up close with the action and the players. The stadium keeps things friendly and relaxed, so you’re never too far from the field.

Stadium Entry and Security

Sloan Park opens its gates about 2 hours before first pitch. That early access is perfect if you want to catch batting practice or just wander the park before the crowds show up. Security checks move quickly but don’t skip any steps.

The stadium has a clear bag policy, like most MLB venues. You can bring:

• One clear bag (up to 12″ x 6″ x 12″)
• Small clutch bags (about hand-sized)
• Empty water bottles (fill them up at the fountains)

You can bring food if it’s in single-serving containers. For the smoothest entry, try arriving 45 minutes before the game and use entrances along the first base side—they’re usually less crowded.

Seating Options

Sloan Park gives you lots of ways to watch the game. With about 15,000 seats, it’s the biggest spring training stadium around.

If you want the best seats, look for:

• Fieldside seats (right by the action)
• Shaded sections (201-209) to escape the sun
• The Budweiser Rooftop over left field

On a budget? Grab a spot on the outfield berm. Bring a blanket and get there early—the lawn fills up fast on weekends and when the Cubs play popular teams.

Many seats echo the look and feel of Wrigley Field, so longtime Cubs fans will feel right at home.

Autograph Opportunities

Spring training is a goldmine for autographs. The laid-back vibe makes Cubs players much more approachable than during the regular season.

Best spots for autographs:

• Along the first base line during batting practice
• Near the player parking lot before the game
• Outside the practice fields behind Sloan Park before 10am

Bring along baseball cards, official MLB baseballs, or your favorite Cubs gear to get signed.

Cubs spring training is where you’ll spot future stars up close. Minor league prospects usually sign more than the big names. Show up early, bring a sharpie, and keep your requests short and friendly.

Food and Concessions

You won’t go hungry at Sloan Park. The food scene goes beyond the basics, mixing Chicago favorites with Southwestern flavors.

Popular Food Options

Sloan Park’s concession stands serve up a taste of Chicago in the desert. The Chicago Dog is a must—piled high with mustard, relish, onions, tomato wedges, pickle spear, sport peppers, and celery salt on a poppy seed bun.

Looking for something bigger? Try the Cubs Helmet Nachos or Southwest Helmet Nachos served in a souvenir Cubs helmet.

The Patty Melt and Bratwurst always draw a crowd, and the Pork Wings with Waffle Fries combo is worth a shot. Check out Windy City Dog, A Taste of Chicago, The North Side, On Deck, and Rendezvous Park Grill for these eats.

Of course, you’ll find all the ballpark classics too—popcorn, peanuts, soft pretzels—scattered throughout the stadium.

Vegetarian and Dietary Choices

Sloan Park doesn’t forget about fans with dietary needs. You’ll spot veggie burgers, fresh salads, and fruit cups at most concession stands.

If you have special dietary restrictions, the Cubs let you bring food from home. Gluten-free options pop up at select stands—just ask a staff member if you’re having trouble finding something. Veggie dogs are available too.

Most stands clearly mark allergens, but if you’re unsure, talk to the stand manager for ingredient info.

Beer and Beverage Selections

The Budweiser Rooftop is a fan favorite for both the view and the beer list. You’ll find domestic and craft beers, including local Arizona brews.

You can grab Cubs favorites like Old Style and Goose Island, plus craft picks from the Southwest. Beer prices usually run $9-15, depending on what you get.

If you’re skipping alcohol, the park has Pepsi products, bottled water, lemonade, and coffee drinks. On those blazing spring days, frozen lemonade and slushies are a lifesaver.

Looking for shade while you sip? The Right Field Party Deck and Left Field Lawn Bar have covered seating with full beverage service. These fill up fast, so get there early if you want a spot.

Some stands sell souvenir cups with discounted refills during the game.

Nearby Attractions

If you’re in town for a Cubs game, you’ll find plenty to do just outside the stadium. Whether you want to shop, eat, or just wander, there’s something nearby to round out your day.

Mesa Riverview

This open-air shopping center sits right by Sloan Park, making it a super convenient stop before or after the game. Mesa Riverview has more than 30 shops and restaurants, all spread out in a relaxed outdoor setting.

Grab a bite at dining spots like Cracker Barrel, Outback Steakhouse, or In-N-Out Burger. Need a break from baseball? Catch a movie at Cinemark Mesa Riverview’s IMAX theater or wander through Bass Pro Shops.

You’ll also find handy stores like Target and Home Depot if you need to pick up anything. Free parking makes it easy to swing by.

Most restaurants here stay open late, so you can grab dinner after the game. The area’s chill vibe and outdoor seating make it a good place to unwind.

Tempe Marketplace and Mill Avenue

Just a short drive from Sloan Park, Tempe Marketplace

Cactus League and Comparable Venues

The Cactus League brings together 15 MLB teams at 10 stadiums across the Phoenix area. Each park has its own personality, amenities, and ways for fans to get involved.

Other Spring Training Ballparks

All the Cactus League stadiums sit within about 45 minutes of each other, so you can check out a few if you’re feeling adventurous. Sloan Park boasts the largest capacity in the Cactus League, but every park has something that stands out.

When you’re comparing ballparks, keep these things in mind:

• Food: Some spots serve up local specialties
• Team stores: Selection and prices can be all over the map
• Autograph chances: Some parks make it easier to meet players
• Shade: Super important once that Arizona sun kicks in

JetBlue Park (Red Sox) and Surprise Stadium (Rangers/Royals) are both known for good sight lines and architecture that nods to their home parks.

Salt River Fields at Talking Stick

Salt River Fields hosts spring training for both the Arizona Diamondbacks and Colorado Rockies. This modern complex opened in 2011 on land belonging to the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community.

Here’s what you’ll find:

• 11,000-seat main stadium
• 12 practice fields
• Modern fan amenities
• Architecture influenced by Native American design

The mountain views are gorgeous, and you’ll find plenty of shade—something you’ll appreciate during the hotter games.

Food ranges from standard ballpark eats to unique southwestern dishes. The open concourse design means you won’t miss the action while grabbing a snack.

Parking is usually easy and less expensive than at Sloan Park, but it fills up fast for big games.

Planning and Tips

Getting the most out of your Cubs spring training trip takes a bit of planning. Think ahead about timing, tickets, and how to avoid the usual hassles, and you’ll have a much smoother experience.

Best Time to Visit

The Cubs run spring training from late February through late March every year. If you want the best vibe, try weekday games in early to mid-March. The weather’s usually nicer—think 75-85°F—and you won’t have to fight through massive weekend crowds.

You can swing by weekday morning practices for free and get surprisingly close to the action. Players hang out near the practice fields behind Sloan Park, and sometimes they’ll sign autographs if you catch them at the right moment.

Trying to save a few bucks? Go for games against less-hyped teams. Tickets for matchups with the White Sox, Dodgers, or Giants tend to cost more and disappear fast.

If you’re not a fan of the heat, stick to morning games. It gets toasty in the afternoon, and the sun doesn’t mess around.

Securing Tickets

The Cubs drop official spring training tickets in early January on the Cubs website and MLB Ballpark app. Mark your calendar and jump on tickets as soon as they go live, especially if you’re eyeing a big matchup.

A few ways to buy:

• Primary sources: MLB.com, Cubs.com, and the MLB Ballpark app
• Package deals: Multi-game packs can save you some cash
• Season tickets: Good move if you’re planning to stick around for a while

If a game sells out, StubHub and SeatGeek usually have tickets, but you’ll probably pay more. The outfield berm (lawn seating) is still the best bet for cheap tickets and a chill, picnic vibe.

Try to show up 30-45 minutes before first pitch. You’ll skip the worst of the lines and might catch some batting practice.

Avoiding Scams and Spam

Spring training draws in plenty of scammers who want to cash in on excited fans. Buy your tickets only through official sites or trusted resale platforms that actually back you up if something goes wrong.

Keep an eye out for these common scams:

• Fake websites that look just like the real MLB or Cubs pages
• Phishing emails promising special deals that don’t exist
• Social media “deals” from sketchy, unverified accounts
• Ridiculously cheap tickets on classified sites

If you get random emails about spring training packages—especially ones asking for wire transfers or gift cards—just steer clear. I’d delete any spam emails pushing “exclusive” tickets, especially those coming from Yahoo or some suspicious, generic address.

When you’re booking a place to stay, go with established hotel chains near Sloan Park, like the Sheraton Mesa or Hyatt Place, or use well-known booking platforms that have real reviews and solid protection policies.