Tempe Diablo Stadium Travel Guide

Tempe Diablo Stadium is one of Arizona’s top spring training spots, giving baseball fans an up-close, friendly place to enjoy the game. Just a few minutes from Sky Harbor International Airport and right off Interstate 10 and Highway 60, it’s easy to find and hard to beat for that classic baseball atmosphere that makes spring training so much fun. The field always looks great, and the seats are comfy—plus, there’s a big grassy berm out past the outfield if you’d rather stretch out and soak up the sun.

If you’re planning to visit, timing really does matter. Parking lots open about two hours before each game, and you can get in from Alameda Drive on both sides. Because the stadium is pretty compact, you won’t find a bad seat anywhere—seriously, you get closer to the baseball action than you would at most big-league parks during the regular season.

Unlike some of the huge, newer facilities, Diablo Stadium keeps that laid-back, genuine vibe that keeps fans coming back to spring training every year. The beautifully maintained playing field and cozy seats make for a great day at the ballpark. If you want to keep it even more casual, just grab a spot on the berm, toss down a blanket, and watch the players get ready for the season while you enjoy the Arizona weather.

Overview of Tempe Diablo Stadium

Tempe Diablo Stadium is the spring training home of the Los Angeles Angels, blending baseball tradition with modern comforts in a beautiful Arizona setting.

Stadium History and Significance

Tempe Diablo Stadium opened its doors in 1968, making it one of the older parks in Arizona’s Cactus League. For over fifty years, it’s hosted spring training and given fans a close-up look at preseason baseball—way more personal than what you get at most big-league parks.

The Los Angeles Angels made this their spring training home and still get ready for the MLB season here. It’s only four miles from Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, so getting there is a breeze.

The stadium sits above Gene Autry Field, named for the former Angels owner and singing cowboy. That bit of history gives the place a unique charm, especially if you’re into baseball lore.

Stadium Features and Amenities

You’ll find plenty of comfortable seating options throughout the stadium, and there are wheelchair-accessible and companion seats in several sections. Tickets are available in advance at the Box Office.

One of the best features is the grassy berm past the outfield fences—an affordable, laid-back spot if you like a picnic vibe. This area fills up fast on game days, so getting there early helps.

Parking’s not a hassle, with lots on both the east and west sides off Alameda Drive. Lots open about 2 hours before the game, so you have time to take in the atmosphere.

The field crew keeps the grass in top shape, and fans get clear views of the game from every seat.

Renovations and Upgrades

In 2005, Tempe Diablo Stadium got a major facelift, with upgrades that made things better for both players and fans—without losing that old-school baseball feel.

They added more seats and improved the sightlines, so it’s easier to see the action from anywhere. The concession stands got an overhaul too, so now there’s a wider selection of food and drinks.

Players got better training facilities, new clubhouses, and improved practice areas. These changes help MLB teams get ready for the season in comfort.

The stadium still overlooks the same scenic landscape, keeping one of its best features intact. They’re always thinking about future improvements to keep up with other Cactus League parks.

Los Angeles Angels Spring Training Experience

Spring training with the Angels in Tempe is something special. You get to see big-league stars and up-and-coming prospects work out in a setting that feels more personal than anything during the regular season. Plus, the weather’s usually fantastic.

Angels’ Spring Training Schedule

Every February and March, the Los Angeles Angels kick off spring training at Tempe Diablo Stadium as part of the Cactus League. Games usually start in late February, and you’ll see them face off with other Arizona teams.

Most games get going at 1:05 PM, so you’ve got time to arrive early, wander around, and get a feel for the place. If you want to go on a weekend, grab tickets ahead of time—they sell out fast.

The Angels play about 15 home games at Diablo Stadium each spring. The full schedule usually drops in November for the following year.

Practice Fields and Workouts

If you’re into watching workouts, check out the practice fields east of Diablo Stadium before games. Players typically start working out around 9:30 AM on days without games.

The Angels’ complex has six practice fields, and you can watch things like:

• Pitchers throwing bullpen sessions
• Infielders working on grounders
• Full-squad batting practice
• Defensive drills

These morning practices are free to attend and have a chill vibe. You’ll get pretty close to the players as they get ready for the season.

Autographs and Fan Interactions

Spring training is hands-down the best time to get autographs and meet players. If you hang out by the fences near the practice fields early in the morning, you’ll have your best shot.

A lot of Angels players sign after morning workouts. Bring along:

• Baseball cards
• MLB baseballs (those are always a hit)
• Caps or jerseys

After games, some players stop to sign by the team exit on the first base side. Just be polite—players notice when fans are respectful.

If you’ve got kids, try to get there about an hour before game time for batting practice. Players sometimes toss baseballs up to young fans in the stands.

Attending a Game at Tempe Diablo Stadium

A day at Tempe Diablo Stadium feels like classic spring training—great amenities, plenty of ways to watch the game, and that unbeatable Arizona sunshine. The smaller size means you’re never far from the action.

Ticket Options and Prices

Tickets usually run from $15 for lawn seating up to $50 for premium box seats right behind home plate. You can get tickets at:

• The stadium Box Office
• The Los Angeles Angels website
• Third-party ticket sites (but expect to pay more)

For the best prices, buy early and go through the Box Office. Weekend games and matchups against big-name teams sell out fast and cost more.

They offer family packs for some games—discounts for groups of four or more. Military and seniors can get special prices on certain days with ID.

Stadium Seats and Field Views

There are a bunch of seating options:

Premium Seating:

• Box seats behind home plate put you right in the action
• Field level seats down the first and third base lines have great views
• All the seats are surprisingly comfortable

Budget Options:

• The outfield berm lets you sprawl out on the grass
• General admission in the upper sections is easy on the wallet

Wheelchair-accessible seating is available with companion seats in different spots. Because the stadium’s small, you really can’t pick a bad seat.

Shade is pretty limited during the day, but if you sit on the third base side (faces west), you’ll get a bit more protection from the sun.

Game Day Tips for Fans

Get there early—it’s worth it. Gates open 90 minutes before first pitch, so you can watch batting practice and settle in.

What to Bring:

• Sunscreen and a hat (trust me, you’ll need them)
• Light jacket for evening games (it can cool off fast)
• Cameras for personal photos (no game filming allowed)
• Some cash, since not every vendor takes cards

For parking, use one of the two paved lots at the stadium. Aim to arrive at least 45 minutes early, especially if it’s a big game.

Food choices cover the usual ballpark favorites and some local twists. You can bring in sealed water bottles (up to 1 liter), but outside food is mostly limited to special dietary needs.

Dining and Concessions at the Stadium

Tempe Diablo Stadium serves up a mix of classic ballpark food and Arizona flavors. Concessions are spread out, so you’re not stuck in long lines when it’s busy.

Food and Beverage Options

You’ll find all the ballpark staples. Legend Hospitality runs the main stands, and the menu covers just about everything you’d expect.

Standard eats include:

• Hot dogs and brats
• Burgers and cheeseburgers
• Nachos with cheese
• Pretzels
• Popcorn and peanuts
• Ice cream and frozen treats

For drinks, there’s:

• Soft drinks (Coke products)
• Bottled water
• Canned beer and soda at select spots
• Coffee and hot chocolate on cold days

Prices are about what you’d expect—$5-8 for most food, $4-6 for non-alcoholic drinks.

Specialty Stands and Local Favorites

There’s more than just the basics. The Right Field Patio down the first base line is a good spot for a laid-back meal and some extra menu options.

Keep an eye out for “food truck” style setups outside the main concession buildings. These mobile vendors rotate in local Arizona dishes and special treats.

Fan favorites include:

• Mexican-inspired tacos and burritos
• BBQ sandwiches and pulled pork
• Southwest-style nachos
• Craft beer from Arizona breweries

If you’ve got a sweet tooth, you’ll find churros, funnel cakes, and local ice cream at the dessert stands. These usually pop up during weekends or big games.

Accessibility for Dietary Needs

The stadium tries to cover different dietary needs, though the options aren’t as wide as you’ll see at bigger MLB parks. Some stands have veggie burgers, fruit cups, and salads.

For families with little ones:

• Baby formula is allowed (even though outside food is usually a no-go)
• Small snacks for kids are generally fine
• Bottled water in sealed containers is okay for medical reasons

There are a few gluten-free options—just not everywhere and not always clearly marked. If you’re not sure, ask at the information booths and they’ll point you in the right direction.

If you have serious allergies or strict dietary needs, you might want to eat before you come or bring a few personal items. The stadium’s rules about outside food are pretty strict, but they’ll make exceptions for medical needs.

Parking and Transportation

If you’re heading to Tempe Diablo Stadium, it’s smart to plan ahead. The stadium has limited parking options, and since it’s right by a bunch of major highways, getting there isn’t too tough—but things can get pretty hectic during spring training games.

On-Site Parking Information

You’ll find two paved parking lots at Tempe Diablo Stadium, one on each side of the venue. The total capacity is about 1,350 spaces, and honestly, these lots usually fill up well before the first pitch. Both open up about two hours before every home game.

Parking comes in at $10 per vehicle for standard cars. Got a bigger ride over 20 feet? There’s an extra $30 fee for that.

Both the west and east lots can be accessed via Alameda Drive. The stadium’s address: 2200 W. Alameda Dr., Tempe, AZ 85282.

If you’re going to a busy game, get there early. Once the main lots fill up, fans often end up in overflow parking.

Navigating Major Highways

Since Tempe Diablo Stadium sits close to major highways, fans from all over the Phoenix area can get there pretty easily.

From I-10: Take exit 153 for Broadway Road, go east, then make a right on 48th Street. Head down to Alameda Drive and turn right for the stadium.

From Loop 202 (Red Mountain Freeway): Exit at Priest Drive, head south, then turn right on Alameda Drive and follow it in.

From Loop 101 (Price Freeway): Exit at Broadway Road and go west. Turn left on 48th Street, then right on Alameda Drive.

During spring training, traffic piles up around the stadium—especially if it’s a big matchup. Give yourself extra time.

Public Transit and Ride Share

Valley Metro makes public transit pretty straightforward. Bus Route 62 stops near the stadium, running along Hardy Drive, just east of the ballpark.

The closest Valley Metro Rail stop is about 2 miles away at Priest Drive/Washington Street. From there, you can hop on a bus or grab a quick ride-share to the stadium.

Uber and Lyft are popular options—just look for the drop-off and pick-up spot near the stadium’s west entrance.

Cyclists can lock up at the racks by the main entrance. Tempe’s bike path network connects right up to the stadium, so biking in from downtown or nearby neighborhoods works well.

If you’re using public transit or a ride-share, try to arrange your ride back before the game ends—otherwise, you might be waiting a while, especially after a packed game.

Nearby Attractions and Area Information

Tempe isn’t just about baseball. There’s a lot to do near Diablo Stadium, from outdoor adventures to comfortable hotels and a food scene that covers just about every craving and budget.

Exploring Tempe and Twin Buttes

Tempe Town Lake is a go-to spot just minutes from the stadium. You can rent a kayak or just stroll along the water. The Twin Buttes give the city a unique backdrop and are great for hiking.

If you love the outdoors, you’ll find plenty of trails in Tempe and Phoenix, from easy walks to tougher climbs. The Hole in the Rock trail is a local favorite—short and sweet with awesome views.

Arizona State University’s campus is worth a walk-through, with cool architecture and cultural spots. The Desert Botanical Garden nearby shows off the area’s desert plants and offers a quiet break from the city.

Downtown Tempe has a lively arts district, with galleries, theaters, and the Tempe History Museum if you’re curious about local history.

Hotels and Accommodations

Tempe’s got hotels for every taste and wallet. The AC Hotel Phoenix Tempe/Downtown keeps things modern and is close to restaurants and shops.

Families often pick the Embassy Suites by Hilton Phoenix Tempe for its roomy suites and free breakfast. The Graduate Tempe stands out with its college-inspired style and location near ASU.

If you’re watching your budget, Comfort Inn & Suites or Best Western Plus Tempe are solid picks—nothing fancy, but they’re clean, comfortable, and affordable.

Most hotels in Tempe are within a 15-minute drive of Diablo Stadium. During spring training, a lot of them offer shuttles to the games, so you might not even need to rent a car.

Dining and Nightlife in Tempe

Mill Avenue is where Tempe eats and parties. Dozens of restaurants line the street, from laid-back to upscale. Four Peaks Brewing Company is a local favorite for craft beer and classic pub food in a historic setting.

Craving Southwestern? Ghost Ranch puts a modern spin on regional dishes. For something creative, Culinary House mixes new techniques with local ingredients.

Need a caffeine fix? Cartel Coffee Lab is the place for specialty coffee and breakfast. Snooze A.M. Eatery gets busy for its playful pancake flights and brunch cocktails.

After the game, Mill Avenue’s bars fill up with fans. Casey Moore’s Oyster House is a chill spot with a patio, while Vine Tavern is your classic sports bar with plenty of big screens.

Families can grab a bite at Oregano’s Pizza Bistro or Portillo’s—both are crowd-pleasers with menus that make everyone happy.

Comparing Tempe Diablo Stadium to Other Arizona Spring Training Venues

Arizona hosts 15 MLB teams across 10 stadiums during spring training, and each one brings something a little different. Tempe Diablo Stadium definitely has its own vibe.

Overview of the Cactus League

The Cactus League draws 15 Major League Baseball teams to metro Phoenix every spring. Unlike Florida’s Grapefruit League, all 10 Arizona stadiums are within about an hour’s drive, so you can easily catch games at different parks.

Tempe Diablo Stadium, home of the Los Angeles Angels, is known for its scenic butte backdrop. The place opened in 1968 and got a facelift in 2005.

The Cactus League season usually runs from late February to late March, pulling in die-hard fans and folks just looking for some fun in the Arizona sun.

Ticket prices jump around depending on the stadium, but Tempe Diablo’s usually lands in the middle—not the cheapest, but not the priciest either.

Nearby Spring Training Stadiums

HoHoKam Park in Mesa (Oakland Athletics) is just 3 miles from Tempe Diablo, so you can easily hit more than one game in a day.

Sloan Park in Mesa, where the Chicago Cubs play, feels like a mini-Wrigley Field and packs in the biggest crowds in the league—15,000 seats.

Salt River Fields in Scottsdale is home to both the Arizona Diamondbacks and the Colorado Rockies. The facility is modern, with 12 practice fields and killer mountain views.

The Peoria Sports Complex hosts both the Padres and Mariners, so you’re getting a two-for-one.

Scottsdale Stadium is where the Giants play, and it’s right in Old Town Scottsdale—very walkable, very lively.

Notable Rival Teams and Games

When the Angels play the Mariners at Tempe Diablo, the stands fill up fast thanks to that AL West rivalry. These games often sell out, so snag tickets early.

Games against the Oakland Athletics bring out plenty of fans, too, and since HoHoKam Park isn’t far, you’ll see a lot of green and gold in the crowd.

If the Cubs come over from Sloan Park, expect a packed house. Their fans travel well and create a buzz you can feel.

Weekend games always draw more people than weekday ones, so if you want a quieter experience, maybe pick a midweek afternoon.

Spring training workouts happen on six practice fields at Tempe Diablo’s complex. Fans can get close to the action before the main games kick off.

Field Information and Stadium Layout

Tempe Diablo Stadium’s layout works well for fans, with good sightlines and plenty of practice fields. The complex serves as the spring home for the Los Angeles Angels, and there’s a lot going on for both players and visitors.

Field Dimensions and Orientation

The main field at Tempe Diablo Stadium sticks to major league specs. The outfield measures about 340 feet down each line and 420 to center—pretty standard stuff.

Batters face northeast, which helps cut down on sun glare during those afternoon games. That’s a nice touch for spring training days.

Gene Autry Field anchors the complex, named for the former Angels owner. The grass and dirt are kept in top shape—seriously, you can tell they care.

Seating wraps from first to third base, and no matter where you sit, you’ll get a solid view of the action.

Practice and Workout Facilities

Players use six full-sized practice fields around the stadium. This setup lets them run drills, take batting practice, and play simulated games all at once.

Batting cages and bullpen areas sit right by the practice fields, so workouts run smoothly.

Infielders and pitchers each get their own training spots—there are dedicated areas for groundballs and several mounds for throwing sessions.

Workout rooms have modern equipment and rehab spaces, helping players stay in shape all spring.

Fans can usually catch morning workouts near the practice fields before the main stadium opens up—worth checking out if you’re an early riser.

Historical and Community Connections

Tempe Diablo Stadium has a long history in Arizona baseball and stays closely tied to local groups that have helped it grow. There are plenty of stories and local legends that make this place more than just another ballpark.

Tempe Diablos and Local Organizations

The Tempe Diablos play a big role in connecting the stadium to the community. This civic group aims to “lift, inspire and encourage through leadership, resources and educational opportunities” for Arizona youth.

They help keep the stadium a community landmark, not just a sports spot. Their work goes beyond baseball, supporting education across Tempe.

Local businesses and groups team up with the stadium for events year-round, not just during spring training. These partnerships add value for everyone—locals and visitors alike.

The stadium’s design includes spaces for community use, which shows Tempe’s commitment to making sports facilities open and welcoming to residents.

Notable Moments and Figures

Gene Autry, the legendary singing cowboy and former Angels owner, left his mark on the field—literally. They named Autry Field right at the heart of the complex, a tribute to the guy who really helped bring spring training to Tempe.

Over the years, the stadium has seen a ton of future MLB stars sharpening their skills each spring. A lot of players who kicked off their careers in minor league games here eventually made it big in the majors.

As the oldest facility in the Cactus League, this stadium really stands out in spring training history. After the 2005 renovation, it kept its historic charm but got some much-needed updates too.

If you get a chance to visit, you’re walking the same grounds where baseball legends geared up for the season. The place has been around since 1968—older than a lot of other spring training spots in Arizona.