Big League Fun in Our Backyard: A Spring Training Game with the Orioles

One of our favorite things about spring in Sarasota — besides the perfect beach weather — is that it’s also baseball season! And not just any baseball, but Major League Spring Training, right here in town at the beautiful Ed Smith Stadium, home of the Baltimore Orioles.

We recently spent the afternoon/evening at the ballpark, and it was the perfect mix of excitement and that classic American pastime.

A Stadium Full of Charm

Ed Smith Stadium is located just a short 15 minute drive from our vacation rental properties, making it incredibly convenient for a spontaneous day at the game. The stadium itself is clean, welcoming, and just the right size — large enough to feel big-league, but small enough that there isn’t a bad seat in the house.

You’ll spot fans in O’s orange and black from the moment you park, many of them longtime Orioles faithful who make the pilgrimage south every spring. But even if you’re not an Orioles fan, it’s an unbeatable way to spend an afternoon.

Game Day Vibes

From the moment we stepped through the gates, the atmosphere was buzzing. Fans grabbed scorecards and snapped photos with the Oriole Bird mascot, kids waved at players during warm-ups, and the smell of popcorn and peanuts drifted through the concourse.

We found our seats just in time for the national anthem and first pitch — and immediately remembered why we love Spring Training so much: the pace is relaxed, the players are friendly, and you can hear the pop of a fastball hitting the catcher’s mitt like you’re sitting on the field.

Great Baseball, Up Close

Watching the Orioles take on Detroit Tigers was a blast. We saw a couple of prospects getting their shot, a few veterans working off the offseason rust, and more than a few big hits and double plays.

The crowd was into it, but not too rowdy — just the right level of enthusiasm for a spring day. You could cheer, chat, and sip your drink without missing a thing.

One of the best parts? You’re so close to the action. Whether you’re down the first base line or up in the shaded bleachers, you feel like part of the game.

Ballpark Eats & Sips

Of course, no baseball outing is complete without some classic ballpark food. Ed Smith Stadium does not disappoint — we grabbed hot dogs with all the fixings, ice-cold lemonade, and later treated ourselves to soft-serve in a souvenir Orioles cap (a must!).

There are local craft brews on tap, shaded picnic tables, and plenty of options if you want something beyond your typical ballpark fare.

Tips for Visiting Ed Smith Stadium:

• Get your tickets early — popular games can sell out quickly.
• Seats along the third base side tend to get a little more shade in the afternoon.
• Bring sunscreen and sunglasses — it’s Florida, after all.
• Don’t forget your camera or phone — photo ops are everywhere!
• Check out the Orioles Team Store for some spring training swag.

A Must-Do for Spring Visitors

Whether you’re a lifelong baseball fan or just looking for a laid-back local experience, catching an Orioles Spring Training game is a Sarasota tradition worth adding to your vacation itinerary.

It’s family-friendly, full of charm, and just plain fun — and when the game’s over, you’re just minutes from Siesta Key, downtown Sarasota, or your cozy vacation rental.

Planning a spring visit? Be sure to check out the Orioles’ Spring Training schedule, and we’ll help you pick the perfect game to attend. ⚾️