What To Do In North Port FL

The city of North Port is actually one of the youngest cities in the state of Florida. It was incorporated under the name North Port Charlotte in 1959, since it sits so close to Port Charlotte. However, in 1974 the residents voted to change it to North Port so that they could proclaim the city as a separate identity.

Despite its young age, North Port is one of the fastest growing cities in Florida. Although the population is still under 100,000 people, it’s no surprise that there is a constant development of new and fun things to do in North Port Florida. 

North Port boasts an extensive network of over 800 miles of local roadways, making it a haven for cyclists. Adventurous souls will also find ample opportunities for canoeing and kayaking in North Port’s estimated 80 miles of freshwater canals, as well as along Myakkahatchee Creek during the summer months. Notably, North Port is the only city in the state with an entire state forest within its limits – the Myakka State Forest. Within this forest, you’ll discover a network of horse trails, mountain bike trails, natural hiking paths, and fantastic birdwatching spots.

Furthermore, North Port is dedicated to providing green spaces and recreational facilities. The city features neighborhood parks, two indoor community centers, and more, to cater to the community’s diverse needs. Beyond its natural beauty and outdoor activities, North Port also fosters a thriving arts community. The North Port Performing Arts Center and the North Port Art Center stand as testaments to the city’s commitment to cultural enrichment and creative expression.

So…without further adieu, let’s dive into the specifics of the best things to do in North Port Florida. Below are our top ten things to do, each of them giving you a wealth of options. 

1. Experience North Port’s Great Outdoors

Snuggled under a canopy of oak and pine, North Port is a little further inland than some of its coastal neighbors. While you may have a short drive to reach the beaches, there is an abundance of outdoor activities to enjoy right here.

Visit North Port’s Forest Parks

Myakka River State Park is a haven for nature lovers, offering hiking, biking, kayaking, and airboat tours. It’s the perfect place to experience the diverse Florida ecosystem and witness local wildlife. The park is home to an array of wildlife, including alligators, wading birds, and even the elusive Florida panther. Take a scenic drive through the park and climb the observation tower for panoramic views of the landscape.

If a trek into the Myakka River State Park feels a bit daunting for you, you can hike, bike, and horse ride through the much smaller Myakkahatchee Creek Environmental Park. Here, you’ll find 160 acres of oak hammocks, marshes and flatwoods along the creek’s inky waters with a good chance of spotting gators, deer, ibises and egrets.

Try Out The Water Sports

Exploring the waterways is undoubtedly one of the most fun things to do in North Port Florida. With close to 80 miles of freshwater canals, nine miles of Myakkahatchee Creek, and a segment of the lower Myakka River, North Port offers an ideal setting for those seeking adventure and exploration. To help you navigate, a network of ‘Blueways’ has been developed over the last decade, meaning you are never more than a few minutes form the nearest public park despite feeling completely immersed in nature. Take a tour from the McKibben Park with Glass Bottom Rentals to make the most of the local wildlife knowledge. 

At Marina Park, you can easily launch motorized boats to access the lower Myakkahatchee Creek, connecting to the Myakka River. Here, fishing enthusiasts can find an abundance of freshwater and saltwater fish species waiting to be caught.

If you prefer to be seated, you can opt for some kayaking at Bob Johnson Landing, an area within Myakka River State Park, where you can launch your kayak or canoe and explore the pristine waters, surrounded by lush natural beauty.

Indulge in the Warm Mineral Springs

Warm Mineral Springs Park is one of the largest natural mineral springs globally, renowned for its healing properties. You can relax and swim in the therapeutic waters, surrounded by breathtaking natural landscapes. The springs have an average year round temperature of 85 degrees, and the high mineral content of the water is believed to have therapeutic benefits for various ailments, making it a unique and soothing experience. Additionally, the springs and the buildings are listed in the U.S. National Register of Historic Places as evidence of prehistoric man, saber-toothed tigers and giant sloths dating back more than 10,000 years have been discovered here! 

Soak up the Nature Preserves

The Legacy Bike Trail is a fantastic experience for all. The entire trail is around 27km and connects Sarasota, Venice, and North Port. In 2022, locals welcomed the official opening of connector trails that lead into the Deer Prairie Creek Preserve, which is a great place for outdoor activities like biking, hiking, and wildlife viewing. It’s an expansive natural area offering serene trails through unspoiled Florida wilderness.

2. Relax at the Beaches Near North Port

It’s undeniable that going to the beach is one of the best things to do. In North Port, Florida, however, you’ll need to travel around 20-45 minutes for your fix of the sunshine coast. Here’s our list of top beaches near North Port.

North Port Beach 

You may hear tell of North Port Beach, also known as Harbor Cove Beach, but the locals are actually referring to Charlotte Harbor. This small sandy area is not a Gulf of Mexico beach. It’s a section of land where the Myakka River meets the Port Charlotte Beach Park before it opens into the Gasparilla Sound – Charlotte Harbor Aquatic Preserve. The area offers a peaceful and serene atmosphere for a day by the water but if you’re here for a short visit, this may not be the top “beach” to pick. 

Sarasota Beaches

To the west and north near the towns of Venice and Sarasota there are a plethora of breathtaking beaches to choose from. In fact, you’ll find some of the state’s best beaches within just a short drive of North Port, and you can take your pick depending on whether you fancy a day of lounging in the sun, collecting shells, exploring rugged coastlines, or admiring the wildlife.

Venice Beach

Venice Beach is known for its stunning pier and ideal seashell-hunting conditions. The clear waters and beautiful sands make it a must-visit beach while you’re in the area. You can stroll along the boardwalk, collect shells, and even witness stunning sunsets from the Venice Fishing Pier.

Englewood Beach

A little further south, Englewood Beach is another gem on the Gulf Coast. It boasts soft sands, clear waters, and fantastic opportunities for sunbathing, swimming, and beachcombing. With picnic areas and shaded spots, it’s a family-friendly destination.

Caspersen Beach in Venice, FL

Caspersen Beach is another great option, and just a short drive away. Renowned for shark tooth hunting, you can explore its pristine shores, collect unique souvenirs, and bask in the beauty of nature. It’s also an excellent place for birdwatching, as it’s part of the Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail.

Manasota Beach

Finally, if you’re looking for somewhere quieter than some of the more popular beaches, Manasota Beach is an excellent choice for a peaceful day by the water. It’s perfect for nature lovers and those interested in shelling and shark tooth hunting.

3. Discover the Area’s History

The heritage sites in North Port offer a glimpse into the city’s rich and ancient archeological history. Naturally, the Warm Mineral Springs, dating back to the paleoindian times, is a forerunner but you may also want to check out the Little Salt Springs Archaeological State Park.  Little Salt Spring is an ancient sinkhole that holds treasures dating back over 12,000 years. The site has revealed evidence of prehistoric human occupation and extinct animal remains. Visitors can explore the history of the region through exhibits and tours, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts.

4. Do Some Shopping in North Port

If you’re wondering what to do in North Port, FL, then a day browsing the local stores could be just the thing. North has a range of boutique stores and if you’re thinking about making your visit more permanent then you’ll be glad to know they also have all the standard supermarkets, shopping centers, and more.

Warm Mineral Springs Gift Shop

Located near the famous Warm Mineral Springs, this gift shop is a hidden treasure filled with unique gifts, locally crafted items, and souvenirs. It’s the perfect place to commemorate your visit to North Port. From handcrafted jewelry to one-of-a-kind artworks, this shop showcases the best of North Port’s local talent, and all accessible while you relax and heal at the mineral spring. While the building complex is closed at the minute as repairs take place, you can keep up to date on the progress and re-opening here. 

North Port Farmers Market

A vibrant Saturday morning experience awaits at the North Port Farmers Market. You can savor fresh, locally grown produce, artisanal goods, and enjoy a sense of community that comes with supporting local businesses. While here, be sure to check out the wide array of homemade preserves, fresh-baked pastries, and a variety of crafts and plants. It’s an excellent opportunity to connect with the local farming and artisan community.

Cranberry Plaza

This shopping destination in North Port features an array of stores, including large department stores, electronics shops, and more. If you’re looking for variety in your shopping experience, this plaza is a great choice. It’s the perfect place to find anything from clothing and electronics to home goods and outdoor equipment.

North Port Commons

For even more shopping options, North Port Commons is a thriving plaza with an assortment of retailers and restaurants. Explore various shops, including popular chains and local boutiques. Additionally, it’s home to numerous dining establishments, so you can refuel and continue your shopping adventure.

Cocoplum Village Shops 

A relatively new build, the Cocoplum Village Shops have been a big hit with locals and tourists alike, eliminating the need to travel outside the district for a wide and pleasing range of stores. It’s always beautifully decorated around holiday times, which makes it all the more appealing. The center hosts an array of stores, eateries, craft areas, and interesting art installments. Plus, on the first Sunday of every month it holds a Cars and Coffee event which is essentially a free car show attracting all sorts of car enthusiasts to enjoy live music and complimentary coffee.

5. Sample Local & International Cuisine 

Florida’s wide array of dining options are renowned for tantalizing your taste buds and winning your heart. In North Port there is a vast selection of dining options and sampling the local cuisine and restaurants really gives you a feel for the area and culture. It’s definitely on our list of fun things to do in North Port, Florida. 

Most restaurants are located along the main commercial streets of town, nearby and within many of the shopping centers. While locals can find many popular chain restaurants, such as Chipotle, Five Guys, Dunkin, etc, North Port is also home to a surprising number of smaller, high-quality local restaurants. Some of our favorites are listed below. 

Italian-food lovers are sure to enjoy the menu at Alvaros, a mom-and pop restaurant that also serves a breakfast buffet. Their lasagna is highly praised, and many reviewers mention the generous portions and friendly service.

Blue Tequila Mexican Restaurant & Cantina is a vibrant Mexican eatery with an extensive menu, and an authentic taste of Mexico. From sizzling fajitas to refreshing margaritas, this is the place to indulge in south-of-the-border flavors. The ‘Molcajete Azteca’ and the ‘Fresh Guacamole’ are local favorites.

If you’re a fan of authentic Mexican pastries and baked goods, don’t miss Panaderia Tri-Color. You can indulge in a wide variety of sweet treats, from conchas and cuernos to tamales and empanadas. This bakery is a delightful spot to experience Mexican flavors.

One of the most popular restaurants in North Port, Que Rico Columbian Flavors offers a range of Columbian and South American dishes, with generous portions that are made to order. Empanadas, arepas, and fried bananas are just some of the must-have items on the menu.

Shark’s Fish House consistently receives great reviews for the great food and excellent service. This family-owned restaurant is a great choice for those who want to enjoy some of the best seafood dishes in town. 

Immerse in the tropical vibes of the Tarpon Point Grill & Marina set on the Myakka river and enjoy manatee sightings and live entertainment as you dine on freshly caught seafood. There’s both indoor and outdoor (tikki hut style) dining options, regular events, and a real community feel at this place, as it’s been part of the local community since the 1950s.

6. Indulge in Some Happy Hour Fun & Live Music

The restaurants in North Port are delectable but for those who enjoy a good ol’ bar lunch, games night, or simply an evening of fine wine and cocktails then it’s the bars you’ll want to check out. 

Austin’s Olde World offers a welcoming atmosphere with a variety of drinks and live entertainment. It’s a great place to spend an evening, where you can enjoy a drink, engage in conversation, and appreciate local talent. The lounge often hosts local musicians, making it a vibrant spot for music enthusiasts.

Sports fans will love Buffalo Wings & Rings, where they can catch the game on numerous big-screen TVs while indulging in a range of craft beers and mouthwatering wings. It’s a fantastic spot for game day fun. Try the ‘Buffalo Chicken Nachos’ and the ‘Ultimate Sports Fan Combo’ while cheering for your favorite teams.

For a taste of Ireland, visit The Celtic Ray Public House in nearby Punta Gorda. This authentic Irish pub offers a selection of beers, including a variety of imports and crafts. It’s known for its lively atmosphere and live music, creating a genuine Irish pub experience.

7. Hit the Links at Renowned Golf Courses

Southwest Florida is renowned for its golfing culture and inspiring courses. There’s an impressive 50 golf courses in and around the North Port city boundaries for you to play your way through. 

If you love to get your golfing in at home then it should definitely be on your list of things to do in North Port, FL. The city is home to the Heron Creek Golf Course, one of the highest-rated golf courses in Florida. Those new to golf can benefit from a top-notch training facility, but the golf course offers challenges for golfers of all skill levels.

8. Discover Local Art and Culture 

North Port Art Center

The North Port Art Center is a hub for local artists and art enthusiasts. It offers exhibitions, classes, and an opportunity to immerse yourself in the local arts scene, promoting creativity and cultural awareness in the community. The center frequently hosts art exhibits, workshops, and even art shows for aspiring artists to display their creations.

Visual Arts Center

Located in Punta Gorda, the Visual Arts Center is a dynamic art hub with galleries, studios, and a wide range of art classes for all ages. Whether you’re a professional artist or just starting to explore your creative side, this center offers opportunities for artistic growth and appreciation.

The Ringling

A short drive to Sarasota will lead you to The Ringling, a cultural treasure trove featuring art collections, stunning gardens, and the historic Ca’d’Zan mansion. It’s the legacy of circus magnate John Ringling, and it’s a place where art, history, and architecture converge. Without a doubt, this is one of the most interesting things to do in North Port, Florida.

Boca Grande History Center

In nearby Boca Grande, this museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the history of the area, from its Calusa Indian heritage to the Gasparilla Island’s role in the tarpon fishing industry. It’s a great opportunity to learn about the heritage of the Gulf Coast..

Venice Theatre

Venice Theatre is a community treasure that hosts a variety of performances, from Broadway-style shows to local productions. Be sure to check their schedule for upcoming shows, and enjoy a night of entertainment and culture.

9. Dive into All the Fun Things To Do In North Port for Kids and Families

North Port Aquatic Center

The North Port Aquatic Center is the city’s water park and offers various aquatic activities and fun for families. It’s a great place for kids to enjoy water slides, splash areas, and swimming, providing a refreshing and entertaining experience during hot Florida days – even during winter! There’s a heated competition pool, the exhilarating Barracuda Blast drop slide, and the bliss of the Relaxahatchee Lazy River. Smaller kids will have a great time at the Pelican Splashground.

Escape Port Charlotte

This escape room adventure is a fun and challenging experience for families. It encourages problem-solving, teamwork, and adventure in a safe and immersive environment. It’s a fantastic opportunity for families to work together to solve puzzles and unlock clues within a time limit. You can choose from a range of different adventures and it gets thrilling reviews! 

Butler Park / Playground

Butler Park is a wonderful spot in the heart of North Port with a fantastic playground, making it an ideal place for families to enjoy some outdoor fun. Kids can run, play, and explore the playground equipment, basketball courts, or athletic fields while parents relax in the park’s 42 acres of peaceful surroundings. You’ll also find the Aquatic Center located within this park. 

CoolToday Park

Catching a spring training baseball game with the Atlanta Braves at CoolToday Park in nearby Venice is a thrilling outing for families. Enjoy America’s pastime in a modern stadium with excellent facilities. Don’t forget to get a hot dog and popcorn as you cheer on the team.

Sarasota Jungle Gardens

A short drive away in Sarasota, the Sarasota Jungle Gardens are a family-friendly attraction that features exotic animals, interactive exhibits, and beautifully landscaped gardens. It’s an educational and entertaining destination for all ages. Kids will delight in up-close encounters with flamingos, alligators, and playful primates.

10. Explore Things to Do Near North Port in Neighboring Places

The Fisherman’s Village is a waterfront shopping and dining destination just a short drive away in  Punta Gorda, offering boutiques, galleries, and delicious dining options. Stroll along the harbor, enjoy live music, and take in the scenic views.

Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium is a marine research and education center in Sarasota. Explore marine life exhibits and interactive displays, providing a fascinating and educational experience for visitors of all ages.

Siesta Key Beach, located near Sarasota, is renowned for its powdery white sand and crystal-clear waters. It consistently ranks among the top beaches in the United States and is a fantastic place for swimming, sunbathing, and beach volleyball.

The Venice Historic Train Depot is a charming piece of history. Take a self-guided tour through the restored train station, which now serves as a museum showcasing the city’s past.

Jelks Preserve is a nature lover’s paradise. Located in Venice, not far from North Port, the preserve features a variety of hiking trails, a freshwater lake, and a diverse range of Florida wildlife. It’s an excellent place for birdwatching and taking in the natural beauty of the area.

Plus, we wrote these spectacular blog posts on over 50 things to do in the neighboring areas of Cape Coral, and our best selection of attractions in Fort Myers. 

Time to get making your own list of things to do in North Port, Florida! 

North Port, Florida, offers a wealth of experiences for locals and visitors alike. From shopping for unique souvenirs to dining on delicious Italian and Mexican cuisine, and from exploring the great outdoors to enjoying family-friendly attractions and cultural venues, North Port has something for everyone. 

And, with nearby cities like Sarasota, Venice, Punta Gorda, and Cape Coral offering easy access to additional opportunities for exploration and entertainment, North Port serves as a central hub for a memorable Gulf Coast adventure. 

Whether you’re here for a short visit or a dream relocation, there’s a wealth of things to do in North Port, Florida. So, check out the links, mark your favorites, and get started on making your own list of must-do things in North Port! 

Thinking of Moving to North Port, Florida? 

We hope that this post has given you some insight into all of the fun things this community has to offer. We love it, and we’re sure you will too! 

To learn more about living in North Port you can check out our full relocation guide here, which gives you all the details on life in this affordable yet mesmerizing Gulf Coast paradise.  

Plus, if you’re thinking about moving to North Port, we’ve compiled a selection of stunning homes for sale in the area which you can find here. 

Feel free to reach out to our team of agents with any questions or to help you find the perfect place! 

The post Top 10 Fun Things to Do in North Port, Florida, for Visitors and Locals appeared first on That Florida Life.

A few years ago Liz and I decided to move to Venice, Florida because we fell in love with the charming beach town and the lifestyle in Venice. Florida is a mecca for Spring Training on the East Coast, so I knew there were so many spring training teams in the area.  I was curious who the nearest team was to Venice.  We were driving down the road and I grabbed my phone to do a quick search. Imagine my excitement when I discovered that the nearest team to us is the Atlanta Braves – and they had just signed a 30-year deal and built a brand new facility a few miles from our house in the Wellen Park!

As if it couldn’t get any better. We found our dream town on the beach, and my Atlanta Braves were just down the road!

Baseball Spring Training in Florida (and the Grapefruit League)

Spring Training really is an event. Those with a passion for America’s Past time often travel down to Spring Training to support their favorite team. And with so many facilities clustered within a small area, it’s also a fun way to tour around different facilities, watching games and soaking up the warmth of the sun and laid-back vibe.

Spring Training in Florida is like a baseball vacation! 

Major League Baseball Spring Training has been a tradition here in Florida for around 130 years!  And today it’s called the Grapefruit League.  Over the years, all but a handful of MLB teams have held their spring training’s in Florida. Currently, there are 15 teams that call Florida their spring home.  Here’s a quick list of the teams and their location:

• Atlanta Braves – North Port / Venice, Florida
• Baltimore Orioles – Sarasota
• Boston Red Sox – Fort Myers
• Detroit Tigers – Lakeland
• Houston Astros – West Palm Beach
• Miami Marlins – Jupiter
• Minnesota Twins – Fort Myers
• New York Mets – Port St. Lucie
• New York Yankees – Tampa
• Philadelphia Phillies – Clearwater
• Pittsburgh Pirates – Bradenton
• St. Louis Cardinals – Jupiter
• Tampa Bay Rays – Port Charlotte
• Toronto Blue Jays – Dunedin
• Washington Nationals – West Palm Beach

If you look on a map, there is a high concentration of teams in the southwest Florida area. Honestly, Venice is located in the heart of the Grapefruit League! So it’s a fantastic location to be able to travel around and experience Spring Training at a variety of different venues and watch different teams play each other. I enjoy taking baseball trips with my friends to professional stadiums, but many baseball fans make the trek down here to Spring Training and turn it into a vacation too.

As a local, I love that I live right in the center of Spring Training. And of course, Go Braves!

Where is the Braves Spring Training Location?

The Atlanta Braves used to have their Spring Training in Orlando. However, just a few years ago they built CoolToday Park, which is a new stadium between the towns of North Port and Venice, Florida in Sarasota County. It’s actually about 35 miles southwest of Sarasota itself. The stadium is actually in the heart of a master-planned community called Wellen Park.

The Wellen Park community is still in development but when completed, it will have more than 14 different neighborhoods, golf courses, and a downtown area with dining and shopping. There will also be a lake where people can rent kayaks and canoes to explore as well as a boardwalk and miles and miles of walking and biking trails.

Search Wellen Park Real Estate for Sale

Having the stadium in the heart of this area means that it will be easily accessible to both locals and visitors. In fact, those who live in the neighborhood will be able to walk and ride their bikes to the stadium…or even drive their golf cart! (now that’s the dream!!!)

CoolToday Park – Home of the Atlanta Braves Spring Training Facility

CoolToday Park opened in March 2019. The first game was played on March 24, 2019 with the Atlanta Braves going head-to-head against the Tampa Bay Rays in which the Braves came out on top 4-2. The land where the stadium stands was actually donated by Mattamy Homes, a private developer and one of the main developers within the Wellen Park community. And the Wellen Park developers also ran the construction and development of the stadium.

Interesting fact, the dimensions of the outfield actually mirror those of Truist Park, where the Braves play their home games in season!

Not only is CoolToday Park a new Spring Training facility, but it’s also one of the nicest. In fact, the stadium looks and feels more like an MLB stadium. First off, it’s quite large. CoolToday Park has 6,200 fixed seats but can accommodate up to 8,000 people overall. The stadium features a wide concourse that stretches 360 degrees all the way around the facility, making for some really great views.

You can also peek down into the bullpen to watch them practice. And there’s an area in the back of the stadium where you can look down at the players coming in and say hi – maybe even tossing down a ball for an autograph!

There are plenty of standing-room areas all the way around the field, with rails and ledges to lean on and large enough to act as a small table, which we actually quite like. They are perfect for perching up with something to eat or drink while watching the game from different angles as we move around the field. You’ll also find an upper level with additional seating as well as special event areas and lounges throughout.

Then there’s the berm, a grassy area beyond 3rd base where people can bring blankets and relax while watching the games — perfect for Spring Training! Just be sure to bring sunscreen, as it can get a bit hot out there.

The Atlanta Braves Spring Training Facility spans over 90 acres of land, so it’s quite a large area. It also includes 6 baseball practice fields as well as numerous other mixed-use fields.

Food and Drink in the Stadium

As you can expect, there is a lot of great food and drink to be had around the stadium. You’ll find the typical burgers and hot dogs, as well as stalls dedicated to seafood and chicken. There’s also the Salsa Supreme, where you can get some amazing tacos and “kitchen sink” nachos. There’s also the smokehouse where you’ll find tasty southern BBQ as well as a deli. And of course, there’s also a Chick-fil-A too.

But our absolute favorite is the Tomohawk Tiki Bar! Just past the 3rd baseline on the left on the concourse is a lovely outdoor seating and bar area where you can enjoy delicious food and some great drinks. The Tiki Bar is open during games, but also when the Braves are away or non-game days as well (read on below to learn more about the Tiki Bar during other times of the year).

Braves Spring Training Schedule

Spring Training typically begins around the mid-to-end of February and lasts until just before the regular season is set to begin. So typically there is around 4 weeks of Spring Training. Oftentimes, Spring Training coincides with Spring Break – which also adds to the appeal and makes it easier for fans to combine their vacations with some baseball fun.

This year in 2022, the season was a bit delayed. We actually had tickets for opening weekend. They were planning a big event with concerts and all kinds of festivities. After they got things sorted out, the first game this year was held on Friday, March 18th.

As a result of the delay, they’ve packed a lot of games in – pretty much every all the way through April 5th. They currently have 18 games scheduled, 8 of them being here at home at CoolToday Park and the others spread out nearby here around Florida.

ATTEND A GAME WITH US! Watch Our Spring Training Video Below

Watching a Game! How to Buy Braves Spring Training Tickets

Ticket prices for games at CoolToday Park to watch the Atlanta Braves range in price quite a bit. You can pay as little as $15 to just get in the building and walk around with standing room areas or have a seat on the grass in the berm area. Prices go up from there to around $65 – depending on the game and the seats you choose. There are also season ticket packages available for those who want to attend as many games as they can!

The best place to find updated information about the Braves Spring Training Schedule is and to buy tickets directly is to visit their website. You can also go out to the stadium in person and buy tickets from their box office as well.

Braves Spring Training Hats, Clothes & Other Merchandise

As you can imagine, Spring Training is a great time to purchase some gear for the season. But this is also where you can find a number of specialty Atlanta Braves merchandise. Items such as flip flops, fans, tank tops, towels and more. They also have a wide variety of apparel such as hats, t-shirts, jackets and golf shirts, including some you can’t find anywhere else.

In fact, the Atlanta Braves have a unique logo for Spring Training (it’s their stylized “A” with palm trees flanking both sides). I love this logo, because it represents my team but in this tropical paradise we call home. Being a fan (and a bit of a shopper) I’m excited to see that they are getting more and more merchandise down here with this special Spring Training logo!

Watch Games Year-Round at The Tomahawk Tiki Bar

There are so many things that we enjoy about CoolToday Park and the Braves Spring Training stadium. But a real gem for us is the Tomohawk Tiki Bar! As mentioned above, this is a great place to grab some food and drink during a game. What we really love about it is that the Tiki Bar is open not just during games. It’s actually open almost every day year-round!

When it’s a nice day out, we’ll often go out to the Tiki Bar to grab lunch. We enjoy sitting outside to soak up the great weather, but also to look over the beautifully manicured green field. Even without a game being played, there’s still such a fun vibe about being in the baseball stadium!

They will also turn on the big screen and show sports news and highlights. And of course, if the Braves are playing you can watch it on the big screen right there. They’ll also turn on the sound so everyone can hear and enjoy the game. This is actually where we came to watch some of the World Series games too!

Another perk of the Tiki Bar is that on certain nights of the week they will have music as well as trivia too. So it’s a legit spot in town to hang out and grab dinner with a bit of baseball too.

Lastly, the food here is quite good. Liz loves their nachos but I’m a huge fan of the shrimp po’ boy sandwich. It is SO good!!!

Beyond Spring Training – Other Fun & Events at CoolToday Park

Even though Spring Training only lasts about a month or so, the CoolToday Park facility is used throughout the year for number of things. During the winter season, there is a weekly Farmers Market held here on Wednesdays. It’s a convenient place to grab some fresh fruits and veggies as well as some baked goods and prepared foods too.

They also have outdoor concerts out on the grassy event lawn, just outside the stadium. These are perfect to bring the family and kiddos to hang out and listen to some tunes under the perfect Florida night sky. Other festivals are held here too. For example, we attended a Grilled Cheese festival a few months back (that was a ton of fun!) and they also have 5k races and other local events too.

As the Wellen Park development continues to mature, we see the stadium area becoming even more integrated in the community with local events and activities.

READ MORE: Things to do in Venice, Florida

Enjoying the Atlanta Braves Spring Training in My New Home!

Atlanta holds fond memories for me. It’s my home and where I grew up. It’s where Liz and I met, and the old Turner Field in Atlanta is where she and I used to go to watch Braves games together when we were dating. Now that we live down here in Florida and I no longer live in Atlanta, I love that I can still feel the emotions surrounding my favorite baseball team right here just a few minutes from my beach home here in Venice.

As a baseball fan, I love that I can enjoy my tropical paradise year-round and also be in the center of baseball Spring Training and all the Grapefruit League teams around us. Actually, with so many teams so closeby, it’s a hard decision to figure out which games to go to and when. I can’t really fit it all in unless I stopped working, but this time of year is also my peak season as a realtor in Venice.

Perhaps I can combine the two by taking some clients out to a Spring Training game with me. Are you up for it?

Just let me know if you want to join me for a Spring Training game!

The post Let’s Play Ball! Atlanta Braves Spring Training in Florida at CoolToday Park appeared first on That Florida Life.