The sunshine state seems to shine brighter in the spring, with sports fans flocking from all over the country to get a piece of the action of Spring Training in Florida. During Spring Training in Florida, 15 MLB teams in the Grapefruit League play 200+ games in multiple Florida locations. Are you ready to hit a home run and then hit the beach? Here’s our guide to Spring Training in Florida.
With over 10,000 flowers, the stunning Hollis Garden located within Lake Mirror Park, is worth exploring. The grounds include a grotto, a gazebo, an orchard, and a butterfly garden filled with gorgeous flowers and plants indigenous to Florida. Or go wander the Historic and Antiques District, Dixieland. Dixieland Relics is an old gas station filled with charming home décor, 360° Unlimited is filled with vintage cloths and vinyl records, and Decades Reclaimed Vintage Depot, has over 35+ vendors spanning shabby chic to mid-century modern styles to choose from.
Book your stay at Best Western Plus Lakeland.
One of the most unique places to visit in the country lies within Sarasota, Florida. The Ringling is a 66-acre museum complex comprising of the State Art Museum of Florida, Circus Museum, Ca’d’Zan mansion, and Bayfront Garden. The Circus Museum is a testament to the wealth and history of the American circus, established in 1948 by John Ringling, and is a place filled with costumes, clown cars, and cannons. If you’re an animal lover, head over to the Big Cat Habitat, to get up close to the animals. Do yoga with foxes or lemurs, hold a wallaby, and hug or sloth.
Book your stay at Best Western Plus Bradenton Gateway Hotel.
When in Fort Myers, a trip to Gasparilla Island State Park is a must. Go shelling along the gulf in “The Seashell Capital of the World” and check out the Port Boca Grande Lighthouse after snorkeling and swimming on the island. Need a spark of creativity? Channel your inner innovator and be inspired by Thomas Edison and Henry Ford, who both choose Fort Myers as their winter homes. The Edison and Ford Winter Estates include 20 acres of historical buildings and is a National Register Historic Site.
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As one of the “happiest seaside towns in America”, Venice’s relaxing vibes will be sure to put you at ease. If you’re traveling with your pup, take him to Brohard Beach and Paw Park, a dog friendly beach where pups are free to play in the water. When in Venice, a visit to Sharky’s On The Pier, is a must. Voted Florida’s Best Beach Bar, it’s located on the famous Venice Fishing Pier, offering waterfront views right on the Gulf of Mexico. Order the Caribbean Conch Fritters and The Grouper Sandwich for seaside appetizers and entrees.
Book your stay at Best Western Plus Ambassador Suites Venice.
During the day, a water ride to Peanut Island Park is worth it for the whole family. Whether you water taxi or paddleboard there, what you will find is nearly 80 acres of island vibes to snorkel, swim, and sunbathe in. As evening comes in, Clematis Street Entertainment District is a fun waterfront to stroll and delight in, with its dancing fountains, delicious food, and a vibrant nightlife.
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Florida is one of the top shark diving destinations in the world, and Jupiter has both a high number of sharks and high profile species, including Tiger, Great Hammerhead, Reef, and more, making it an ideal place to try this thrilling activity. Florida Shark Diving offers cage and free dive adventures daily.
Book your stay at Best Western Intracoastal Inn.
After a Mets game, how about exploring the Treasure Coast Wine & Ale Trail? The Treasure Coast consists of Indian River, St. Lucie, and Martin County, and the Treasure Coast Wine & Ale Trail encourages you to experience all the local breweries plus a winery, a cidery, and a meadery on the trail. Start at The Side Door Brewing Company in Port St. Lucie and enjoy brews while making your way north up to finish the trail at Mash Monkeys Brewing Company.
Book your stay at Best Western Port St. Lucie.
When in Tampa, check out the vibrant Ybor City, pronounced “EE-bore”, the only neighborhood on Florida’s west coast to be designated a National Historic Landmark District. Ybor’s 7th Avenue was recognized as one of the “10 Great Streets in America” and the Columbia Restaurant, is Florida’s Oldest Restaurant. When sunset hits, go out on the water in style with a float on the Tiki Boat Cruise. Float past downtown Tampa on this unique, BYOB excursion.
Book your stay at Best Western Tampa.
After a Phillies’ game, why not go to one of Dr. Beach’s Top 10 Beaches in America? Dunedin’s Caladesi Island State Park is literally, an island, and can only be accessed by boat, but it’s worth the seafaring trip. Stroll the pristine beaches with white sands and turquoise waters or kayak through the mangrove forest.
Book your stay at Best Western Plus Yacht Harbor Inn.