2 Tucson, Ariz. Cozy stadiums with seating close to the action make it easy for young fans to collect autographs, catch a souvenir fly ball or talk to the players. The Arizona Diamondbacks and the Colorado Rockies call this city home during spring training. Kids will love the Sandlot Package at Loew's Ventana Canyon resort, which includes a copy of the family-oriented film The Sandlot. Games: 1-800-638-8350, www.visittucson.org/springtraining. Hotel: 1-800-234-5117, www.loewshotels.com.

3 Scottsdale, Ariz. Play gets under way Feb. 25 at the Scottsdale Stadium in downtown Scottsdale. In 2008, nearly 150,000 people attended the 15 home games at this sun-drenched ballpark. This year, make it a family affair as the San Francisco Giants play the Chicago Cubs, Seattle Mariners, Los Angeles Dodgers and Milwaukee Brewers. After the last pitch is thrown, visit the Phoenix Zoo. 1-800-805-0471, www.scottsdalecvb.com/Baseball.

4 Tampa, Fla. Watch the New York Yankees tune up for the season in their new digs at Steinbrenner Field. In addition to the largest seating capacity in the Grapefruit League, Steinbrenner Field also has a large Yankees memorabilia store where young fans can choose from hundreds of team items. After the game, win or lose, you'll hear Sinatra's "New York, New York." 813-879-2244, www.steinbrennerfield.com.

5 Kissimmee, Fla. Catch the Houston Astros in action at Osceola County Stadium, where they've played since 1985. The ballpark, the smallest in the league, puts fans close to their favorite players. Visitors can watch workouts and batting practice at no charge, even on game day. The park has a fenced playground in right field where parents and kids can take a break. 321-697-3200, www.floridagrapefruitleague.com/Astros.html.

For other teams playing in Florida, visit www.floridagrapefruitleague.com. For teams in Arizona, visit www.cactusleague.com.

DMN