Fun & Games

Gila River Resorts & Casinos’ newest gaming palace, which opened in summer 2023, is full of pleasant surprises even if you don’t hit the jackpot. Notably, its floor-to-ceiling light-adjusting windows and outdoor gardens discard the old model of sensory deprivation while gambling. And keeping with the lighter, brighter theme, it boasts the only white roulette wheel in the United States. If you go to play, you’ll be awed by the state’s largest sportsbook (7,000 square feet, with an impressive 129-foot LED display video wall), over 800 slot machines, poker, blackjack, roulette and more. Not into taking chances? Have dinner at Honey & Vine, serving upscale cuisine in a subtly glam gold-and-aqua ambiance, or grab a craft beer from one of the sportsbook’s 40 taps and watch a game. A must no matter what: Cruise the perimeter walls to peruse the exceptional artwork by Gila River Indian Community members.

Ever wondered what it would be like to be the “crazy cat person” without committing to caring for dozens of cats? Spend some time at this cafe, where older cats nap in elevated nooks and kittens play all day in a carefully curated environment full of scratching posts, perches, pillows and cat beds, feeding dishes and enough cat toys to fill a small sleigh. Feline fans love this place not only for the company of the cats but also for events like yoga with cats and drag bingo with cats. All the cats at the cafe are adoptable, so if you make a connection, you could find a fur-ever companion. The coffee is pretty good, too.

Strap on some paint-covered overalls and a pair of oversized rubber boots for a wet and wild experience. Get your mind out of the gutter — this is good clean fun. Spin Art Nation, a family-owned and -run business in central Phoenix features fun with paint in motion. Ride a bicycle and create splatter art from the movement of your wheels, or try the hand crank for more precise placement. Or for a really great stress release, go into the splatter room with glow-in-the-dark everything and squirt, smear and fling paint onto your canvas with glee. You can wait around after your session for your creations to dry, or you can pick them up at a later date.

What makes for a better date night than a Taylor Swift concert? Or Adele? Coldplay? But, you know, classed up. Look no further than Candlelight Concerts, held around the Valley at venues such as the Phoenix Zoo and Warehouse215. While hundreds of electric candles illuminate the stage, the Listeso String Quartet performs tributes to some of the biggest artists in the world. You can enter a lavender haze with the Swifties, roll in the deep with some Adele and gaze at a sky full of stars with some Coldplay. Upcoming shows are dedicated to emo hits and the cinematic scores of composer Hans Zimmer. Tickets range from $35 to $65, and shows last an hour. Wine and beer also are available.

Ready to roll, Phoenix? There are a variety of places in town to slip on a pair of skates and have fun on wheels, from local roller rinks to fitness centers or other indoor venues. (Even hip concert hall The Van Buren has hosted a retro roller disco on occasion.) But one rink rules them all: Skateland in Mesa, a vintage gem that’s the Valley’s largest and longest-running skating spot. The 26,000-square-foot skate joint, which first opened in 1975, offers more space to glide and stride than other local rinks, a high-tech lighting and sound system, an arcade filled with redemption games, a fully stocked snack bar and plenty of kitschy charm to spare. Skateland’s calendar is packed with public skating sessions and events aimed at young and old: Kids will enjoy theme parties and weekly events like the Character Glow Skate on Sunday starring childhood heroes such as Mario and Bluey. Grownups will dig the adults-only nights on Thursdays and Fridays and theme parties on weekends featuring costume contests, prizes, photo ops and other fun. Because that’s just how they roll.

Going to the Ice Den in Scottsdale may not be on your to-do list, but you should consider it for a family night out or a fun weekend date destination. There are options to free skate (advance registration required), or if it’s a lifetime goal to learn how to ice skate, the rink offers lessons. And the most important fact — it’s the coldest place in the desert. You’ll have to bundle up to watch your kids skate on the ice, but that could be one way to ease into wishing fall would making a quicker landing in Phoenix. For those who would rather people watch and witness bloopers on the ice, you can check out 18 Degrees, the bar and restaurant to grab a few drinks and grub. And if you’re lucky, you may catch the ice hockey team practice while you’re sitting on the sidelines.

From the world famous Andretti car racing family comes this massive structure right off the highway in Chandler. Though the space boasts activities such as bowling and laser tag as well as a full bar and upscale food, the best attraction is the go-karts. The two-level track is illuminated with multicolored neon lights, making for an exciting experience that doesn’t get monotonous. The karts can be a tight fit for anyone noticeably tall or wide, but squeezing in for a race is worth it. There are also smaller karts for races for the kiddie set. Built-in safety slowdowns might frustrate reckless drivers, but to us, it just means we can have all of the go-kart fun with none of the worry.

Over the years, the Valley’s had quite a few outdoor theme parks, from Legend City to Castles N’ Coasters. But few have matched the sheer range of offerings and general happiness quota as Golfland Sunsplash. Yes, there are plenty of places that offer mini golf, bumper cars, a giant arcade and laser tag — but few places that combine them and then offer water rides from the tranquil wave pool to the majestic Stormrider. Sunsplash is certainly a throwback to a simpler time in the Valley, when these kinds of attractions defined the easy-breezy culture and served as a focal point for families. And yet it’s still very much a place where we continue to connect back with these ideas as our understanding of play and leisure grows more complicated (and sometimes more expensive). Sunsplash remains a rite of passage for each new generation and a pillar of the Valley that we can look at as a sign of what really matters in life: soaking up the fun and good vibes with friends and strangers alike. And, also, the Iceberg shakes are absolutely to die for every time.

Bouldering is booming, and this facility is the best in town thanks to its proprietary system designed by and for climbers to provide the ultimate in problem-solving for all ages and abilities. The indoor gym includes 19,000 square feet of air-conditioned, rope- and harness-free curved climbing walls with padded floors. But there’s more: Boost your climbing skills with 56 weekly yoga and fitness classes included with membership. Members also enjoy coworking spaces, free weights and cardio machines, among other amenities, and day passes are available (teachers, ask about the free and discounted visits). Other big selling points for parents are the kids’ camps and “homeschool hangs.” Though it’s part of a chain, the Tempe Bouldering Project endears itself to the community with public events like pet adoptions and vendor fairs, and everyone is welcome to grab a drink at the Pair Cupworks coffee kiosk and enjoy the expansive dog-friendly courtyard complete with turf, seating and games.

When it comes to bowling, we’re a bit old-fashioned. We’ll knock down some pins at one of the high-tech fun centers around town if we must, but we prefer our vibe vintage, low-key and even a little “Big Lebowski”-esque. Let It Roll Bowl is the perfect blend of 20th-century bowling alley aesthetics and 21st-century technology. You’ve got the electronic scorekeeping and the silly graphics after each roll, but in the atmosphere of a friendly neighborhood dive bar. Let It Roll has a full bar and a kitchen that serves standard bowling alley fare (think pizzas and nachos), and it also plays host to occasional events such as comedy shows. On weekend evenings, the alley’s Rock N Cosmic Bowl takes over, offering a colorful night of entertainment for reasonable prices.

Looking for something different to do on a night out? Lane Park is an adult amusement center in Old Town Scottsdale with plenty of parking nearby. Get a fancy drink and enjoy elevated cuisine (we love the Italian frybread tacos) while you try out duckpin bowling or throw axes at a target. When the weather is warm, there are four lanes of shuffleboard, but when the temp drops, Lane Park instead offers curling, the ice-based Olympic sport. There are plenty of little games from around the world as well: Try flinging a coin into a tiny gold frog’s mouth, or play the Indian game of carrom. In a sea of Old Town Scottsdale bars, Lane Park is a place to find a different kind of fun.

What ticks us off these days? Honestly, what doesn’t? From politics to Arizona summers to that one mosquito that camps out in our bedroom and keeps biting us in the night, there are plenty of aggravating factors in this modern existence. It just makes us want to break things. But we’re not about to smash our own possessions or catch a destruction of property charge, so when we need to rage, we head to Breakthrough Smash Room. After you sign the waiver and put on your safety gear, you’ll get a crate of things to smash, which you can do by throwing them or hitting them with other objects. There’s also a splatter room if the only thing you want to throw is paint. Either way, a visit to Breakthrough leaves us tired, exhilarated and ready to face the world again.

No membership is required to shoot at Scottsdale Gun Club’s 32 indoor lanes. Every lane is designed to lessen the sound of gunfire, but earplugs and headphones are available and should be utilized, along with required eye protection. Targets are programmable through a touch screen display and rotate 360 degrees, which is a cool feature not offered at many Valley shooting ranges. All firearms including rifles are welcome in the lanes, but the use of armor-piercing ammunition is verboten. A variety of firearms are available to rent (they have the largest selection in the state), and Scottsdale Gun Club also offers numerous classes on gun use and safety, including classes for concealed carry permits.

The Valley’s best retro video game and pinball haven is now its biggest. Earlier this year, StarFighters in Mesa leveled up by doubling in size to 8,000 square feet and upping its roster to more than 100 pinball machines and a comparable number of arcade titles. It now contains the largest game selection in Arizona and has secured its crown as the undisputed champ of local arcades. There are now even more deep cuts from gaming history to be discovered in the nooks and corners of the ’80s-themed arcade, many of which were purchased by co-owners and game collectors Michael Lovato and Steve Thomas. After paying the $11 admission, you can play hard-to-find machines such as Atari Football and Rip Off or work your way through rows of pinball favorites. Lovato and Thomas have more changes planned, including obtaining a beer-and-wine license and adding more neon and vintage toys to accentuate the ’80s vibe of StarFighters. We can’t wait.

The Valley has no shortage of attractions for kids. But only one features three air-conditioned stories of wholesome, hands-on activities sure to help young children burn off all their excess energy. The Children’s Museum of Phoenix features a play kitchen and a play grocery store. There’s a multilevel metal treehouse called The Climber. There are reading nooks, a craft room and regular special exhibits. Crucially for parents, there are ample places to sit while the little ones run wild. Even more crucially, membership isn’t unreasonable — $205 a year for a family of four. If you can successfully exit through the gift shop without buying a few toys, there’s no better bang for a parent’s buck.

For the nine months that it’s not oppressively hot, there are few better ways to spend a weekend morning than visiting Phoenix’s best zoo. Grab a map, because with 125 acres dedicated to housing animals from around the world, it’s easy to get lost. Some residents enjoy the crowd more than others — the giraffes, flamingos and squirrel monkeys are easy to spot, but good luck catching a glimpse of the otter. There are regular animal presentations and special events, and kids will love the petting zoo, carousel, splash pad, camel rides … you get the idea. And while membership isn’t cheap — $279 for most families — the zoo does offer early entrance for members, which helps to avoid the crowds of kids and stroller-pushing parents. Go often enough — and the zoo is large enough to discover something new each visit — and it quickly justifies the membership fee.

Located at Arizona Mills, Sea Life is not the absolute glitziest of Arizona aquariums. OdySea, located off the 101 in Scottsdale, is fancier. But OdySea is expensive. Tickets at Sea Life are $18.99 each, while a single adult ticket at OdySea costs nearly $50. And the Sea Life experience is pretty good. Twenty-six thousand square feet of exhibits feature jellyfish and seahorses, sea turtles and eels, sharks and stingrays. You can touch a starfish or, for an additional fee, enjoy a sea turtle encounter. And, crucially, kids can find Nemo (clownfish) and Dory (blue tang fish) in the same tank. Its counterpart to the north may offer a slightly upgraded experience, but Sea Life easily offers the best bang (or blue tang) for your buck.

We’ve lived in Phoenix a long time. Lots of things have changed over the decades, but a few things haven’t. One thing that’s stayed consistent is that we always have a blast at Castles N’ Coasters. Another is that our favorite thing about the west Phoenix amusement park is the rides. Sure, we’ve enjoyed many a round of miniature golf there, but it doesn’t compare to Desert Storm, the first looping roller coaster in Arizona. We can always count on the back-and-forth Sea Dragon and the exhilarating Splashdown log ride for a good time, too. Though the impending demolition of Metrocenter mall means that Castles N’ Coasters’ surroundings are looking quite different these days, much of the amusement park remains the same as ever, and we’re thankful.

West Phoenix staple JJ’s Bar and Billiard is simple but boasts seven Diamond pool tables, draft beer and oddly great chips and salsa — a simple but solid recipe for a casual environment to hang out. And if pool isn’t your thing, there are dart boards, too. The only downside of traveling to JJ’s to run the table is that it sometimes hosts pool tournaments, which it doesn’t post about because it doesn’t have a website. It’s best to call ahead to ask whether there is a tournament going on before checking it out in person, but it’s worth the call for the laid-back atmosphere and hours of fun. JJ’s is also home to UFC and can be booked for parties or celebratory occasions.

Dozens of public swimming pools dot the landscape of metro Phoenix, offering its residents oases of refreshment and fun. The nicest one we’ve found is in North Scottsdale, and it’s pretty much got something for everyone. The McDowell Mountain Ranch Aquatic & Fitness Center boasts a 13-lane, 25-yard lap pool and multiple diving boards. More amenities are available during the summer, including a splash pad, lazy river, waterslide and play pool. The pool offers swim lessons for all ages and water-based exercise classes, too. We like McDowell Mountain Ranch Aquatic & Fitness Center for the cleanliness and stylishness of its facility and the reasonable fees for Scottsdale residents and nonresidents alike. The mountain views aren’t bad, either.

If you’re a pickleball fan, you’ve probably played here. This Ahwatukee park is open to the public, boasting 16 courts with well-maintained amenities like restrooms and water fountains. Regulars know the drill, so even on weeknights when the courts are full, you won’t be made to wait too long for your turn in a court. The courts are well illuminated and lines are well marked. And even if your family isn’t into pickleball, bring them along — Pecos Park also offers a skate plaza, a dog park, playground, splash pads, a paved walking path and areas for basketball, soccer and volleyball.

We’re kind of tired of the term “hidden gem,” but it’s undeniable that one of the joys of living in metro Phoenix is discovering wonderful things that aren’t particularly well known. Case in point: the Estrella Star Tower. Designed by local astronomer Steven Kates, the spiral-shaped structure stands at the entrance to a Goodyear neighborhood, surrounded by trees, cactuses and a water feature. Kates intended the Estrella Star Tower to be a place where we can reflect on our place in the universe. Visitors can climb the spiral staircase to the top for views of Estrella Mountain Regional Park. Tiny lights set into the exterior of the tower illuminate as the sun sets, making it sparkle like a jewel in the desert.

The Valley resort scene is an embarrassment of riches. But among so many wonderful spots to get away from daily life and take a staycation, the Arizona Biltmore continues to stand out as our favorite. The resort, which will celebrate its 100th birthday in 2029, is a thrilling blend of old and new. The stunningly beautiful central building continues to be one of the most elegant spaces in the city. A major refresh completed in 2023 included original dining concepts, upgrades to rooms and the new Tierra Luna Spa and Sol Garden. A weekend at the Biltmore can include drinks at the sleek Wright Bar, a cabana at one of the resort’s seven pools or perhaps a round of golf. The Biltmore’s frequent staycation specials help knock a few dollars off the bill, but truly, we’re OK spending a bit to enjoy ourselves in such beautiful surroundings.

Valley Metro Rail riders were treated to an astonishing sight on a Sunday afternoon in mid-January: dozens of people boarding trains in T-shirts, undergarments, socks and shoes. As for their pants? Not so much. Members of this group were sans slacks, shorts or skirts while riding the rails into downtown Phoenix, while fellow passengers were suitably shocked. This brief encounter was part of the No Pants Light Rail Ride Phoenix, a cheeky and body-positive urban prank in which participants travel on local transit trains sans pants. It’s a harmless stunt that originated in New York City in 2002 and later spun off into a Phoenix version with hundreds of people participating each year. However, no laws are ever broken. It’s legal as long as participants don’t “recklessly expose” their naughty bits. The 2024 edition marked the ride’s return after a four-year hiatus due to the pandemic. Hundreds dropped trou, and much fun was had. Meanwhile, some got their knickers in a twist over the event. Far-right extremists complained about exposing younger riders to indecency, while Arizona Republic columnist Laurie Roberts fretted over how it could prompt the Republican-controlled state legislature to kill light rail expansion. Despite the pearl-clutching, organizers hope to stage the ride next year. We can’t wait.

Step inside the massive space that once was a Gemco and you’ll quickly become overwhelmed with the sight of nearly 180 cars that stretch from some of the first autos ever made to the most recent muscle cars that will rev the engines of any gearhead. It’s a mix of nostalgia with a taste of Arizona history that will entertain you for hours. There’s the 1917 Douglas Dump Truck made in Nebraska and shipped to the Arizona Onyx Quarries in Mayes. Is luxury more your style? The museum’s got you covered from the 1976 Cadillac Eldorado Convertible, the last year of that model, all the way back to a row of early-20th-century vehicles. The oldest car in the building? A 1909 REO Five Passenger Touring car. There’s also a game room for the kids and a circa-1950s mini carousel that’s operational. It sits next to a new addition: a Chevrolet Popcorn Truck from 1929. A small library includes issues of Hot Rod magazine dating to the late ’50s. Owner Mel Martin has classic cars stashed all over the Valley, so what’s on display in the museum gets refreshed, making the space perfect for return visits.

The Slangin’ Smoke event, hosted by Modded Kulture at Firebird Motorsports Park, is the Valley’s premier drift car experience — a must-see for car enthusiasts and thrill-seekers alike. Drifting is at the heart of this multifaceted show, where skilled drivers of rear-wheel-drive vehicles slide around corners at high speeds, burning rubber as they maneuver through clouds of smoke. The event brings the legendary Bihoku Track to life, re-creating the famous Japanese mountain course known for its thrilling curves and iconic drifts. One of the event’s highlights is the Swing King Competition, where drivers compete to showcase the most controlled and stylish drifts. For those who crave more adrenaline, the Donut Pit offers a spectacle as participants spin their cars in tight circles, filling the Metro Phoenix air with tire smoke. Additionally, the event features the Two-Step Competition, where high-revving engines roar, and the Car Limbo, where low-riding cars attempt to squeeze under the limbo bar. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or new to the scene, Slangin’ Smoke promises nonstop, furiously fast excitement.

This free annual lowrider car show is uniquely set around the hacienda-style El Mercado de Guadalupe each April. Here, several blocks of Guadalupe streets are closed off, and the charm is drawn from a combination of elements appealing to various interests. The show features an impressive array of lowrider cars and oldies, attracting top car builders across Arizona and beyond. Vehicles of all eras participate, showcasing custom candy and pearl paint jobs, chrome details, tuck-and-roll interiors, air suspension setups and hydraulic pumps. Live music, local food and family-friendly activities add to the appeal, fostering a sense of camaraderie and reunions among metro Phoenicians and out-of-state cruisers. This emphasis on community engagement sets the Guadalupe Car Show apart from others in the state. And just when you think the show is over, hundreds of vehicles cruise down the town’s main drag. At the same time, spectators line the sidewalks and parking lots to photograph and video the show vehicles for the whole world to see on social media.

Maybe it was opening their own stadium. Or the return of dollar beer nights. Or a roster overhaul. Whatever the reason, Phoenix Rising FC rose to the occasion and brought home a championship trophy. And for that, they’ve earned a special spot in the hearts of sports fans across metro Phoenix. The championship run last year had its fits and starts — and near collapses. But the team that entered the playoffs in sixth place never gave up, winning the club’s first title in a penalty kick shootout. The Rising lost their head coach and most players from the championship roster, leading to a tough season this year. (They’ve already fired the replacement coach.) But the game-day experience keeps the fans coming back, thanks to a busy schedule of theme nights, food trucks and fun.

One of the most popular hikes in the Valley, the Echo Canyon Trail is one of two ways to climb Camelback Mountain — and both are seriously challenging. To the top of the mountain and back to its base, the trail is about 2.4 miles and the elevation gain is about 1,423 feet. The rocky terrain and steep climb make this one of the more difficult hikes around, so don’t be surprised if you have to pull yourself up from your hands and knees or rely on the handrails installed along parts of the trail. But don’t be alarmed. Getting to the top of Camelback is a small triumph worth the sweat. Just make sure to bring plenty of water and be prepared for the difficulty of finding parking at the base during peak hours.

This one’s not for the faint of heart. Get ready for a 4.2-mile out-and-back trail near Superior, with cliffs that grant hikers a view of the Superstitions and beyond. Those with a fear of heights should stay home as the complicated trail corners hikers against moderate cliffs that make for a spectacular sight. Similar in difficulty to its popular cousin Flatiron, this hike calls for a bit of scrambling. But don’t worry — decent shoes are enough to cling to the grippy rock texture. Hikers will know they’ve ended their ascent when they’ve reached the triumphant Picketpost mailbox filled with treasures from past hikers including letters, shooters, money and even condoms (for those who find fear an aphrodisiac). The views of nearby mountain terrain from the top of Picketpost Mountain are worth the climb. The way back down includes some butt sliding down steep rocks. Hikers who stay late can catch a gorgeous sunset view since most of the trail faces west.

If you’re lucky, you’ll beat other hikers to the best picnic spot in the Superstition Wilderness: the Lone Tree. Make sure your knees are in top shape for this one, as some of the incline can get pretty steep on this 5.4-mile out-and-back trail near Gold Canyon. The name can be attributed to the single pine tree at the end of the trail, appearing alien against the rocky, dry backdrop. This hike allows for views of Battleship Mountain, Weavers Needle, Black Mesa and Canyon Lake. And while you might be tempted to stop and enjoy a packed lunch in the shady, cool cave or the Fremont Saddle, the best spot to enjoy a picnic is at the very end. Bask under the tree’s shade as you chow down or climb onto the boulders just next to it for a gorgeous view of Weavers Needle on the other side of breathtaking cliffs.

Hiking doesn’t have to be an activity just for the weekends. The Lookout Mountain Loop, located in the heart of the city, allows you to hit the trail after work for a gorgeous sunset hike. Park at the Lookout Mountain Preserve trailhead on 16th Street, which is on the north side of the mountain. From there, you’ll quickly get up onto the trail system, which offers multiple options. Turn left and join the loop that, after a moderate incline, gets you right into the wildflowers and mountain views. As you make your way around to the west side of the mountain, you’ll start to see the sun setting over the distant peaks. We like to hike this loop clockwise to hike directly into the sunset. Toward the end, as you head back around to the north, the trail flattens into a scrubby brush perfect for spotting rabbits, quail and the occasional road runner. Dogs are permitted but must be on a leash. Expect to see other hikers along with solo trail runners getting in their workouts.

For anyone trying to commune with nature in the Valley, you can’t go wrong with Scottsdale’s McDowell Sonoran Preserve. With some 31,000-plus acres, the preserve presents a smorgasbord of terrains and various difficulties for hikers, bikers and other outdoor nature enthusiasts. But it’s not just about being a massive place to reconnect with the wonders of life in a dynamic desert. The McDowell Sonoran Conservancy, which helps oversee the preserve, also offers plenty of training classes and general education. Their aim is to augment your enjoyment of the preserve’s offerings with a historical and social perspective as to why these places matter. That two-pronged approach is how the preserve becomes not just a place to explore but also this sustained connection to the places, values and diverse populations that have helped define this entire region. It’s a living, breathing connection to this sense of community and this unwavering celebration of the natural world. Whether you hike it or bike it, the preserve is ours to explore past, present and future.

Located at Papago Park, the Hole in the Rock may be the perfect introduction to Arizona for someone visiting for the first time. The unique sandstone formation, peppered with holes formed by erosion over millions of years, is rich with history. The Hohokam may have used its holes to mark the seasons. Now, visitors use them as an irresistible Instagram backdrop. Parking is easy — there are plenty of spots near Hole in the Rock or at the nearby Phoenix Zoo — and the hike up is short at just 0.3 miles. Beginner hikers and even kids should have little problem with it, though you should wear some sturdy shoes as you climb up. Once you get there, cool yourself in the shade of the rock’s titular opening and enjoy a view of the Valley that’s most impressive at dusk. (Expect some company. This is a popular spot.) Your visitors can now say they’ve done something very Arizona, and at just a nine-minute drive from Sky Harbor, they barely had to leave the airport.

It’s our opinion that the stretch of Central Avenue between Northern Avenue and Bethany Home Road is one of the loveliest parts of Phoenix. Trees shade the quiet street, which is lined with luxurious and often historic homes. It’s a pleasant trip up the street in a car, but even more so when we’re walking on the Murphy Bridle Path. Mornings and evenings, and all through the weekend, the packed-dirt path on the east side of the street is populated with runners, couples with dogs, families and solo walkers. The path is named for William Murphy, who platted the neighborhood in 1895, and along the street, you can see signs commemorating its 100th anniversary in 1995. And yes, it was originally intended for people riding horses. But today, it remains an important piece of Phoenix history, as well as a nice place for a stroll.

Hiking and bouldering are popular pastimes in the Valley, but the Victory Steps at Verrado provide a different kind of climbing challenge. Technically known as Trail 340, the stairs are really 340 railroad ties that take you above the master-planned community of Verrado in the far southwest part of metro Phoenix. Though the steps aren’t too steep, you’ll soon start to feel the burn in your chest and legs as you ascend. Keep going, and your reward is a lovely view of the White Tank Mountains and the surrounding areas. Then, it’s time to steady your legs for the descent. There’s no official address for the trail; simply get off Interstate 10 at Verrado Way, head north and look for the small parking lot near the base of the stairs. And don’t forget to bring plenty of water.

Smack dab in the center of Phoenix, Margaret T. Hance Park is undoubtedly the top spot to spend a day off. With plenty of well-manicured grass, a playground for the kids, green enclosures for small and large dogs, ramada space and a garden space, there’s something for everyone at the park named after Phoenix’s mayor from 1976 to 1984. At the edge of the park is the beautiful Japanese Friendship Garden, created in tandem with Phoenix Sister City Himeji, Japan. Hance Park is also a short walk from restaurants and bars on Roosevelt Row, making it an oasis on the edge of downtown. It’s one of the few places in central Phoenix where foot traffic is given the upper hand over automobiles, which travel through the I-10 tunnel below the park.

The amusing part about the Phoenix Open used to be that the premier PGA event was sponsored by a trash company best known for early-morning wake-ups by massive trucks lumbering through your neighborhood leaking a trail of disgusting garbage juice, an ironic twist for a pompous golf event held in Scottsdale that pro golfers already disdained thanks to the raucous 16th hole. Though the name was later shortened so people would forget it’s still the Waste Management Phoenix Open, the event gained new infamy in 2024. Drunken frat bros and their lady friends made a national mockery of it thanks to a mixture of heavy downpours, lax security and alcohol — so much alcohol. The “People’s Open,” as it’s often called, was a flop. Fights, arrests and slip-and-falls down muddy hills went viral thanks to social media. More than 200 people were arrested, and dozens more were tossed for trespassing. Organizers pledged big changes to tame the chaos in 2025 and protect the $17.5 million the event raised for charity this year.

Apologies to Devin Booker and Kevin Durant, but Gallen has been a model of consistent excellence ever since the right-handed starting pitcher joined the Diamondbacks in 2019. He’s finished ninth, fifth and third in the voting for the Cy Young Award, the top pitching honor in the National League. He’s an ace whose starts are appointment viewing — he could throw a no-hitter on any given night. He’s as much a tactician as he is a magician on the mound, making hitters look foolish with an arsenal of devilish pitches he deploys with precision. He helped lead the Diamondbacks to the World Series in 2023 and is crucial to their hopes to reach the postseason again this year. It’s hard to imagine Arizona being competitive without him.

Diana Taurasi is the legend, and Kahleah Copper is probably the Mercury’s best current player. But the 6-foot-9 Griner remains a unique force in women’s basketball, and her continued WNBA success this year is all the more impressive given what she’s been through. In February 2022, she was arrested in Russia for having a small amount of hash oil in her luggage. That led to a 10-month imprisonment that ended only when the United States agreed to exchange a Russian prisoner in a deal to free her. Back in the U.S., Griner returned to the court and, while she’s not been quite as dominant as before, she’s made all-star teams in each of the last two seasons.

With its central location between North Phoenix, Scottsdale and Arcadia, Piestewa Peak is not only a convenient hike to get to — it’s also rewarding and breathtaking. The mountain’s Summit Trail is just over a mile long to the peak, but the climb entails a steep ascent of 1,200 feet for hikers. Once there, hikers can enjoy a remarkable 360-degree view of the Phoenix metro area. And if the vertical climb on the Summit Trail isn’t for you, the lesser-known Freedom Trail wraps around the base of the mountain in a 3.7-mile hike, getting you closer to the preserve’s desert flora and fauna. For its accessibility, beauty and singularity, Piestewa Peak wins best overall hike.

The 125-pound mass of college wrestling muscle won ASU’s first individual national championship in five years and the 11th individual title in team history in March. It came after a stellar season that earned him 2024 Pac-12 Wrestler of the Year honors. The redshirt junior from California is quickly becoming a wrestling legend for his work on the mat. Watching this fierce competitor take down opponent after opponent is made better when he flexes those biceps in victory. Nabbing the national championship brought more honors for him, including Tempe Mayor Corey Woods declaring that March 23, 2024, would be known as Richard Figueroa Day and getting to throw the first pitch on ASU Night at an Arizona Diamondbacks game in August. Even better is that he returns to the mat when wrestling season opens in November to defend his championship.

Sloan Park, the spring home of the Chicago Cubs, is the newest stadium in the Valley’s baseball landscape. It’s certainly a top-notch facility, but when it comes to the best in Arizona, the 13-year-old Salt River Fields continues to hit home runs. Located on the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community and home to the Diamondbacks and the Colorado Rockies, the stadium remains in terrific shape. There are great food options, a unique collection of cactuses on the batter’s eye in center field and, from certain angles, a wonderful view of Camelback Mountain. While the Mesa-set Sloan Park tends to get overcrowded with fans, Salt River Fields never feels too full. Pick any seat for a terrific view of the action, or relax with a picnic blanket on the outfield lawn. There’s also easy access to the backfields, should you want to watch the Rockies or Diamondbacks train before a game.

Ask any staff member at Footprint Center where Hideaway Lounge is, and they probably won’t know. But it’s on suite level B, between the 100 and 200 levels. You can take the elevator or escalator, and anyone with a ticket to the game can hang out in the lounge and watch the game from there. It’s standing room only for anyone who doesn’t have a seat ticket for the lounge, but the view is still a lot better than from the nosebleed seats. (Note: Security will not allow you to stand in front of people who are sitting down, thus blocking their view and the walkway.) The lines for the bars are a lot shorter than on the concourses, too.

In April, the Coyotes released mockups of a new arena they hoped to build in Phoenix. Within days, news leaked that the team was moving to Salt Lake City. After years of unsuccessfully looking for someone to build them a new facility — and after one season playing in the 5,000-seat Mullett Arena at Arizona State University — the team’s 27-year history in the Valley was over. The news broke with just one home game left on the schedule, turning the team’s season finale into a wake. Then, in a flash of smoke, the team was gone. A disappearing act needs a good reappearance to complete the trick, but a half-hearted attempt to revive the Coyotes by owner Alex Meruelo failed in June when a land deal in Phoenix fell through.

With about a week’s notice, Todd Walsh had to summarize the nearly three-decade existence of a beloved Arizona sports franchise and the last 27 years of his own sports broadcasting career. The Arizona Coyotes had just wrapped up their final game of the season. Days earlier, they’d announced the team would move to Salt Lake City. Walsh had covered the team on the air since it came to the Valley in 1996, and over five poignant minutes on the postgame show, he bid an emotional and professional farewell to a franchise that was leaving a dedicated fanbase, a local media contingent and him behind. “Hockey gave me a personal and professional purpose,” Walsh said, sharing how the game and its people buoyed him after the death of each of his parents. With admirable poise and without a single verbal pause, Walsh helped fans through their grief just like hockey had helped him through his. “A good story lasts forever,” he told them. “However, sometimes the ending just isn’t what you want it to be.”

The Valley’s sports mascots leave a lot to be desired. Big Red, the Arizona Cardinals’ mascot, is one of two anthropomorphic cardinals in major professional sports. Howler the Coyote has moved to a farm upstate. The Suns’ Gorilla is famous but nonsensical, and the Diamondbacks having a bobcat mascot makes sense only if you know the tortured explanation for it. (Chase Field was originally named Bank One Ballpark – or B.O.B. for bobcat. Again, the team is named after a snake.) But Sparky is wholly original. Sure, there may be a few other devil mascots out there, but there’s only one Sun Devil. He has more history than most of his counterparts in town, and he’s certainly unique. And there’s no mistaking what team he represents — something the Valley’s other mascots would have a hard time claiming.

We’re No. 1? It’s been a while since the Sun Devils won anything in a major sport — no offense to the men’s swimming and diving team, which won an NCAA title this year — but ASU landed atop a dubious leaderboard this year. In April, the NCAA penalized the Sun Devils for illegal recruiting during the pandemic under former football coach Herm Edwards. As a result, ASU is now tied with Southern Methodist University for the most major infractions (10) in NCAA history. The obvious solution: Go for 11. Bring back a poorly disguised James Harden on the basketball court. Start a sign-stealing scheme on the baseball diamond. Give every student-athlete a sports betting app, $500 and no supervision. It’s time to make history.

It should have been a celebratory moment. Spring training had sprung, and the Diamondbacks were coming off a surprise trip to the World Series. They’d just executed an exciting offseason, spending tens of millions of dollars to bolster a young and exciting team that had just brought postseason baseball back to the Valley. Then Diamondbacks managing partner Ken Kendrick stepped in front of a bunch of microphones and issued a veiled threat to move the team. “We may run out of time in Phoenix,” Kendrick warned, raising the specter of relocating the team out of state. There are cities across the country, he explained, that “would certainly be very happy, you know, with, frankly, a successful, existing franchise.” Arizona Republic columnist Phil Boas called it Kendrick channeling “his inner mob boss.” In a rarity when it comes to Boas’ work, he was right.

As the Coyotes played a final, emotional game in the Valley in April, the man responsible for their impending exit was nowhere to be found. Alex Meruelo’s ownership of the Coyotes lasted less than five years, a span that saw the team abandon their home at Gila River Arena in Glendale and then strike out multiple times at finding a shiny new home. As fans, players and media members bid a tearful farewell as the Coyotes took the ice in Arizona for one last time, Meruelo didn’t show. He was too busy finalizing a billion-dollar deal to sell and relocate the team, he told a local sports radio station. If you’re going to rip a team away on short notice, at least be there at the end to take your medicine.

Aspiring golfers of all ages can learn valuable basics here in a relaxed, non-intimidating, indoor atmosphere. This isn’t a putt-putt party: The 18 smooth, well-constructed holes offer a range of easy to difficult, and a laser dot changes the tee-off spot each time so you can play repeatedly. Pros are on hand to help with form and strokes, too. Best of all, it features the jovial Bar19 boasting friendly servers, above-average bar food and decent pours — but don’t go overboard if you want to stay on your game (trust us). Happy hour from 4 to 6 p.m. Monday through Thursday includes $2 off draft beer, glasses of wine and well drinks, along with specials on sliders, tacos and wings. If you get the swing of it and want a more social outing, Putting World hosts Glow in the Dark “putt parties” on certain nights and welcomes group events.

If you haven’t been paying attention in the last decade or so, esports have really taken off nationwide. Sure, there’s always going to be a place for tried-and-true games such as baseball and football, but esports have become a thing because they offer the same pillars (teamwork and competition) but in a way that’s more welcoming and inclusive. The city of Phoenix has even got in on the trend, as its parks and recreation department holds programs, classes and even tournament play for young and old alike. Not that esports needs this kind of validation, but a city getting involved is a really important way to make the sport a proper part of actual community-building efforts as well as to lend the various resources needed to sustain it long term. Video games are ultimately just meaningless fun, but in that space there are still opportunities to stoke the twin flames of friendship and competition. Plus, if no one has to sit in 110-degree stadiums, then that seems like a win-win all around.

Years ago, laser tag was a big trend — and an easy way to plan a night out for large groups. The spirit’s the same even as the technology has clearly changed, thanks to places like Velocity VR. Velocity offers a chance for up to eight players to immerse in any number of far-flung experiences, from battling hordes of the undead to fighting robots in deep space. If you’re an old laser tag pro, or if you spent any amount of time playing paintball, the experience should prove familiar enough even as Velocity takes it up a notch for something that’s altogether more physically and mentally engaging. There are other amenities for rounding out the evening out, including food and drinks as well as more traditional games such as go-karting and axe-throwing. But it’s really the VR gameplay that demands your attention, as it’s that perfect balance of slight novelty and genuine excitement that makes this a rather compelling new aspect of local nightlife. It ain’t the drinking and dancing of yore, but it’ll get you those weekly steps and also serve as a reminder of the power of a great gaming culture. Plus, there’s something slightly more acceptable about rocking VR goggles in a crowd setting.