Your Guide to Florida's Grapefruit League

If you're looking for something new and exciting to do in Florida, then the Grapefruit League should be your go-to. Whether it's with friends or family, this activity is one worth checking out if you want a great way to get active as part of a retirement lifestyle.

What Is the Grapefruit League?     

The Grapefruit League is a series of pre-season training games that take place in sunny states like Florida where grapefruit grows. Spring training games in Florida have been a part of baseball history for more than 120 years. From the legendary Babe Ruth to modern-day superstars like Derek Jeter and Miguel Cabrera, countless legends from every team across Major League Baseball have graced this beautiful state. If you've got an insatiable love of the national pastime, then head to Florida and experience a unique slice of baseball history.

Top Grapefruit League Cities

For over a century, Florida has been home to some of the most esteemed teams in Major League Baseball. From St. Petersburg and Tampa's more than 85 years at bat together all the way down to Winter Haven’s 55+-year tenure as a Grapefruit League city — these towns have stood stalwart for generations. It doesn't stop there — Bradenton, Clearwater, Lakeland, Sarasota, Fort Myers, West Palm Beach, Orlando, and Vero Beach are all baseball cities that call the Sunshine State their springtime training grounds.

Jupiter Grapefruit League

From professional baseball to spring training, the Sunshine State is home to some serious sports action — particularly at Roger Dean Chevrolet Stadium in Jupiter. Here you can catch two teams playing on the same day: The St Louis Cardinals and Miami Marlins. So if you’re looking for a great game experience with plenty of energy, be sure not to miss out on one of these exciting matchups.

Orlando Grapefruit League

Get ready to experience a whole lot of fun when you visit Champion® Stadium at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex in beautiful Orlando, Florida. It's an ideal spot for local residents and active adult communities who want to take part in spring training.

Lakeland Grapefruit League

Lakeland, Florida — nicknamed “Tiger Town” after 70+ years of spring training with the Detroit Tigers — is a little less than an hour away from Orlando. It's one of baseball's longest-standing relationships and is sure to be a hit for any fan looking for the perfect getaway.

Port Charlotte Grapefruit League

As of 2023, the beloved Charlotte Sports Park is temporarily closed due to damage from Hurricane Ian. But when it reopens, be sure to go cheer on the Tampa Bay Rays at Charlotte Sports Park, just a short drive away in sunny Port Charlotte.

Clearwater Grapefruit League

BayCare Ballpark on Old Coachman Road is a destination not to be missed. Home of the Philadelphia Phillies, this ballpark provides both world-class baseball and some of Florida's best Philly cheesesteaks. Who could ask for more? With unbeatable views from every seat in the house, it’s no wonder why they call this top-notch stadium one of Grapefruit League spring training’s prime attractions.

Sarasota Grapefruit League

Ed Smith Stadium in Sarasota, home of the Baltimore Orioles during spring training season, is filled to capacity with enthusiastic local fans — many of whom are snowbirds or retirees from one of Sarasota's lively active adult communities. It’s no wonder this ballpark buzzes year-round.

Fort Myers Grapefruit League

If you're looking to call one of Fort Myers' 55+ communities your home, it's the perfect time as spring training is in full swing. Two teams will be playing right on your doorstep — cheer for the Minnesota Twins at Hammond Stadium or support the Boston Red Sox over at JetBlue Park. It doesn't get much better than that.

If you're looking to take a baseball-filled spring break, pack your bags and head south. The Houston Astros are training in West Palm Beach while the New York Mets will have you bopping over to Port St. Lucie or Tampa for workouts with their rivals, the Yankees. Pittsburgh Pirates fans can find them working on their skills in Bradenton and the Rays call Port Charlotte home — don't miss it! Head north of Florida's border into Dunedin if cheering on the Toronto Blue Jays is more your style, but make sure to end up back down here for sunnier times spent getting up close and personal with Washington Nationals playmakers in beautiful Palm Beach.

For a unique Florida experience, nothing beats the Grapefruit League. It's the perfect activity for retirees to enjoy during their stay in this wonderful state, from taking in all the action of America’s favorite pastime at one of its available stadiums to simply kicking back and relaxing. Get the most of this experience when you live nearby in one of Del Webb’s active adult communities. Explore Del Webb and discover the retirement community for you today.