Spring training travel tips for Chicagoans headed to Arizona
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For many years, I've done family-style vacations to spring training, entertaining my kids with activities beyond the ballparks.
The big picture: If you're planning a trip, there are plenty of ways to get exercise and try delicious local food.
🌄 Sunrise hikes: Wake before dawn to snag a parking spot at one of Phoenix's popular trails where hikers flock early to beat the heat.
- We hike Echo Canyon on Camelback Mountain nearly every morning we are there, enjoying 360-degree views at about 1,400 feet.
- Echo's two- to three-hour hike is rated "hard," but Phoenix offers several other easier spots for scenic morning walks.
😎 Shaded seats: Think about paying a bit more to sit in sections with shade.
- We thought lawn seats would be great for the kids, until we got fried by the Arizona sun with no shade in sight.
- At the very least, bring lots of sun hats and sunscreen to the game.
🌮 Mexican grocery stores: Check out Phoenix's giant Rancho and Cardenas supermarkets with their in-store tortillerías, cremerías and restaurants serving tacos, breakfasts and freshly squeezed juices. Great for cultural excursions and affordable family meals.
- I love buying their stacks of warm tortillas made with corn and wheat, but also fresh pineapple, cactus, strawberries and nuts.