CoolToday Park: Your Premier Destination for Braves Action, Live Music, & Year-Round Fun
Nestled in the vibrant heart of North Port, Florida, CoolToday Park stands as much more than just a state-of-the-art baseball stadium. It’s a dynamic, multi-faceted entertainment complex that serves as the spring training home of the Atlanta Braves and a bustling hub for concerts, festivals, and a wide array of community events throughout the year. Whether you're a die-hard baseball fan, a music enthusiast, or seeking family-friendly entertainment, CoolToday Park offers an unforgettable experience for everyone.
The Vision Realized: A Premier Sports and Entertainment Venue
Opened on March 24, 2019, CoolToday Park quickly established itself as a cornerstone of the North Port community and a beloved destination for fans across the nation. The inaugural game saw the Atlanta Braves triumph 4-2 over the Tampa Bay Rays, marking the beginning of a new era for Braves spring training, which previously called Champion Stadium near Orlando home from 1997 to 2019. This magnificent ballpark, located in the southern portion of Sarasota County, approximately 35 miles south of Sarasota, represents a significant investment and a commitment to providing top-tier entertainment and economic growth in the region.
Beyond the Basepaths: The Atlanta Braves' Spring Training Home
For Atlanta Braves fans, CoolToday Park is a pilgrimage site. This is where the magic of a new season begins, offering an intimate setting to see your favorite players up close and discover future stars. The facility is meticulously designed to provide an unparalleled fan experience during Spring Training, offering everything from stunning field views to exclusive member benefits.
- Spring Training Games: Experience the excitement of Major League Baseball as the Braves prepare for the regular season. Tickets and packages are available, promising action-packed days under the Florida sun.
- GCL League Games & Instructional League Games: Beyond the big league roster, CoolToday Park hosts Gulf Coast League (GCL) games and Instructional League games, providing a glimpse into the Braves' robust minor league system and the development of their top prospects. It’s a fantastic opportunity to see tomorrow's stars today.
- Fantasy Camps: Ever dreamt of playing like a pro? CoolToday Park offers unique fantasy camp experiences, allowing fans to live out their baseball dreams on the same fields as the Braves.
- Braves Beach Club Season Ticket Membership: For the ultimate fan, a Braves Beach Club Season Ticket Membership unlocks a host of exclusive perks. Imagine enjoying up-close views of batting practice, delectable dining options, early entry into the park, and access to private areas – all designed to elevate your game-day experience to an extraordinary level. This membership truly offers a VIP pathway to Braves baseball, providing unparalleled access and comfort that makes every visit memorable. Learn more about these fantastic benefits and other unique offerings in our detailed guide, CoolToday Park Perks: Beach Club, Tiki Bar, & Family Fun.
The dedication to the Atlanta Braves is palpable, with the team committing to a 30-year lease, ensuring that CoolToday Park remains their spring training home for decades to come. This long-term partnership not only solidifies the park’s role in professional baseball but also underscores its importance to the local economy and community.
A Hub of Year-Round Entertainment: More Than Just Baseball
While baseball is at its heart, CoolToday Park shines as a versatile entertainment venue that constantly buzzes with activity far beyond the Spring Training season. The park's commitment to year-round programming ensures there's always something exciting happening in Braves Country.
Live Music, Festivals, and Special Events
From the moment you step through its gates, CoolToday Park promises a vibrant atmosphere. The plaza stage, for instance, has already hosted memorable events, such as a spectacular Carolina beach music performance as the sun set on March 15, 2026. This is just one example of the diverse musical acts and concerts that grace the venue, transforming the ballpark into an open-air amphitheater. Beyond music, the park is a popular spot for a variety of festivals and special events, catering to a wide range of interests and age groups. Keep an eye on the official schedule; you never know what unique event might pop up next!
Sports Beyond the Diamond
CoolToday Park's immaculate playing fields are not exclusive to baseball. The facility is designed to be multi-functional, regularly hosting other sporting events such as exhilarating soccer games and competitive lacrosse matches. This versatility makes the park a true athletic hub for the region, appealing to diverse sports fans and athletes alike.
Dining & Socializing at CoolToday Park
No great experience is complete without delicious food and refreshing drinks, and CoolToday Park excels in this regard. The Superior Pools Tomahawk Tiki Bar & Grill is a fan favorite, open Tuesday through Sunday from 12 pm to 9 pm, offering a fantastic menu in a relaxed, open-air setting. It’s the perfect spot to grab a bite, enjoy a cocktail, and soak in the Florida atmosphere. For those looking for a gourmet twist on classic ballpark fare, Downtown Wellen, adjacent to the park, features various eateries ready to delight your taste buds. Arriving early before an event to explore these dining options is always a smart play.
Exclusive Experiences & Family Fun
CoolToday Park understands the importance of creating memorable experiences for all ages. The CoolToday Park Kids Club is a fantastic initiative, offering young fans exclusive events, exciting swag, and a chance to feel even closer to their favorite team. For groups, the park’s dedicated team can help craft a tailored experience, ensuring everything from corporate outings to family reunions at the ballpark is seamless and unforgettable.
Planning Your Visit to CoolToday Park: Essential Tips & Information
Making the most of your trip to CoolToday Park is easy with a little planning. The park is generally open daily at 11 am, offering ample time to explore before events. For specific Braves Spring Training games, tickets and packages are typically on sale well in advance, so it's advisable to secure yours early, especially for popular matchups. Special event weeks, like the celebration from February 14-22, feature a full schedule of activities designed to immerse visitors in the Braves experience.
- Check the Schedule: Always consult the official CoolToday Park website for the most up-to-date schedule of Braves games, concerts, festivals, and other special events.
- Ticket Information: Purchase tickets and explore package deals online to ensure your spot for desired events.
- Dining Options: Arrive early to enjoy the Superior Pools Tomahawk Tiki Bar & Grill or explore the gourmet options in Downtown Wellen.
- Location: Remember, CoolToday Park is conveniently located in North Port, Florida, within the planned community of Wellen Park. Clear directions and parking information are usually available on the park's official site.
The Vision Behind CoolToday Park: A Community Investment
The creation of CoolToday Park was a monumental $140 million project, representing a remarkable collaboration between private and public entities. This significant investment highlights the foresight and commitment of all parties involved to create a lasting asset for the community and the Atlanta Braves. Sarasota County contributed $21.2 million through hotel bed tax dollars, recognizing the substantial tourism impact. The state of Florida provided $20 million, swayed by projections that the Braves' presence would generate a staggering $1.7 billion economic impact on the area over the team's 30-year lease. Mattamy Homes, a private developer, generously donated the land and an additional $4.7 million. The City of North Port contributed $4.7 million, and Wellen Park, the master-planned community housing the facility, oversaw the construction and development. This robust partnership not only brought the park to life but also ensured its sustained success and integration within the growing Wellen Park community.
Conclusion
CoolToday Park truly embodies its slogan: "Nothing is Cooler Than the Fact That This Park is a Home Run For Everyone!" From being the cutting-edge spring training home for the Atlanta Braves to hosting an impressive calendar of live music, festivals, and various sports, it’s a dynamic destination that offers something special for every visitor. Whether you’re cheering on a grand slam, swaying to a concert, or enjoying a family outing, CoolToday Park promises a vibrant and memorable experience. Plan your visit today and discover why this North Port gem is a year-round favorite for sports enthusiasts and entertainment seekers alike.