Surprise Stadium Named #1 Spring Training Facility in the Nation

West Valley stadium takes top spot for second year in a row in USA TODAY 10Best Readers' Choice Awards

Mar. 26, 2026 at 11:38pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

For the second consecutive year, Surprise Stadium in the West Valley of Arizona has been named the #1 Spring Training Facility in the nation by the USA TODAY 10Best Readers' Choice Awards program. The ranking is determined by a nomination from USA TODAY 10Best editors and a panel of baseball facility experts, followed by a public vote.

Why it matters

This recognition highlights the quality of the Surprise Stadium experience and the strong community support for baseball in the West Valley region. As one of 15 Major League Baseball teams that hold spring training in the Phoenix metropolitan area, the Cactus League is a major economic driver for the state and a source of pride for local sports fans.

The details

Surprise Stadium, home to the Texas Rangers and Kansas City Royals during spring training, was praised for its fan amenities, accessibility, and overall game day atmosphere. Three other Valley stadiums - Goodyear Ballpark, Peoria Sports Complex, and American Family Fields in Phoenix - also made the list of top spring training facilities nationwide.

  • Surprise Stadium was named the #1 Spring Training Facility for the second consecutive year in 2026.
  • The USA TODAY 10Best Readers' Choice Awards program announced the rankings on March 26, 2026.

The players

Surprise Stadium

A baseball stadium located in Surprise, Arizona that hosts the Texas Rangers and Kansas City Royals during Major League Baseball's spring training season.

USA TODAY 10Best Readers' Choice Awards

An annual awards program run by USA TODAY that allows the public to vote on the best in various travel and leisure categories, including the top spring training facilities in the country.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

The city of Surprise plans to celebrate the stadium's recognition with special events and promotions during the upcoming spring training season.

The takeaway

Surprise Stadium's back-to-back recognition as the top spring training facility in the nation underscores the Phoenix metro area's reputation as a premier destination for Major League Baseball's preseason activities, drawing fans from across the country to experience the unique Cactus League atmosphere.