by: Liz Froment

With much of the country experiencing a very chilly winter, the start of Spring Training means that baseball (and the summer) is just around the corner. Each year, thousands of people flock to Florida or Arizona to take in a bit of that nice weather while enjoying one of America’s favorite past times.

If you are interested in checking out Spring Training for the first time, there are few spots better than Fort Myers, Florida.

Home to the training grounds of both the Boston Red Sox and Minnesota Twins, Fort Myers is the perfect place to catch a few foul balls and have plenty of other activities to do.

Fort Myers is located on the Gulf Coast of Florida’s Western shores, meaning the area has quick access to beautiful beaches, stunning nature and delicious fresh seafood as well. A pretty perfect combination for any vacation!

If you are looking to take in a few other sporting activities beyond baseball, there is plenty to do both on the water with kayaking and snorkeling as well as playing a few rounds of golf at some of the nearby courses like the Crown Colony Golf Club and the Fort Myers Country Club.

For some real adventure, get in touch with nature. Take an eco safari through the beautiful Florida Everglades, or for a more laid back experience try the Shell Factory Nature Park. And for a truly memorable event swim with some local manatees.

Of course, no one wants to head to the sunny Florida coast without spending a few hours at some of the local beaches. A perfect way to cool off before or even after a game, the beaches of Fort Myers and neighboring Sanibel Island are simply beautiful. For a great beach that is close to the action try Fort Myers Beach.

After all that sun, sand and baseball can build up quite an appetite, and Fort Myers can certainly deliver. For some quick and easy homemade sandwiches that pack a punch try Heavenly Biscuit. Or for some beers and oysters, check out Smokin Oyster Brewery, it’s a great atmosphere with live bands and plenty of other Spring Training fans.

With so many options for fun in the sun, you’ll have a hard time fitting baseball in during your trip to Spring Training in Fort Myers!