The best things to do in Phoenix

“Papago Golf Club puts you right in Papago Park with views of the Papago Buttes, Camelback, and the downtown skyline, plus the pedigree of being home to ASU’s golf teams. Grab a post-round bite at Lou’s Bar & Grill, or book a lesson and actually fix that slice.”

From the Phoenix newsletter, August 3, 2026

“Need two hours of AC-fueled bliss and a solid reason not to cook tonight? Harkins Theatres Chandler Fashion mixes the big releases with the occasional indie, plus fun one-off events and director spotlights, so you can catch something new or nostalgic and call it self-care.”

From the Maricopa newsletter, August 7, 2026

“Rush Xtreme is the Chandler playground for all ages, with wall-to-wall trampolines, dodgeball, foam pits, a 4-story play structure for big kids, a dedicated toddler zone, an indoor Sky Walk ropes course with zip line, plus an arcade and on-site eats.”

From the Maricopa newsletter, August 8, 2026

“Western Skies Golf Club keeps things easy with online tee times, the driving range now open, and leagues and tournaments if you like a little friendly pressure. Bring your swing and debrief at Mulligans for a low-fuss golf fix this week.”

From the Queen Creek newsletter, September 11, 2026

“Trade your usual Netflix scroll for a chill-inducing stroll as US Ghost Adventures runs the Glendale Ghosts tour through eerie stops like the Arizona Doll and Toy Museum and Velma Teague Library, with Sahuaro Ranch Park legends in the mix, blending real local history with goosebump-worthy tales you’ll be texting about…”

From the Glendale newsletter, August 8, 2026

“When the desert says no, your putter says yes at Putting World, an 18-hole indoor putting course with golf simulators, lessons, and fittings. Round it out at Bar 19’s chef-driven lounge with craft cocktails and 50+ big screens, perfect for brag-worthy contests and local group hangs.”

From the Fountain Hills newsletter, September 7, 2026

“Family-friendly mini-golf destination offering two 18-hole courses, an ice cream parlor and a playground.”

“Shake up your week with 18 holes of glow-in-the-dark mini golf at Glow Putt Mini Golf, played in cool darkness so your putter stays steady even if life doesn’t. It’s an easy win for date night, kid energy, or team building, and you can book their Party Park room when the crew wants in.”

From the Fountain Hills newsletter, August 25, 2026

“Large-scale indoor trampoline center hosting open jump, fitness classes, dodgeball & parties.”

“Continental Golf Club keeps golf easy to love with a par-60 executive layout, tree-lined fairways, and sculpted greens. Plus, their Glow Golf nights flip the course into a neon playground, perfect for a post-work swing fix or a low-key hang with friends.”

From the Fountain Hills newsletter, August 28, 2026

“Ken McDonald Golf Course is a longtime local favorite for affordable, well‑maintained rounds. Expect wide fairways, a lighted driving range for post‑work tune‑ups, a friendly pro shop, and a bar and grill to debrief the round, plus leagues and lessons if you want to level up.”

From the East Valley newsletter, September 6, 2026

“Clean Comedy USA has been presenting the nation’s funniest clean comedians since 2003, keeping it hilarious without the awkward F-bombs around greater Phoenix. They even host Arizona’s only clean comedy open mic, perfect for testing your own bits or enjoying family-friendly laughs you won’t have to explain later.”

From the East Valley newsletter, September 8, 2026

“Craving a real test and those sunset views, Red Mountain Ranch Country Club delivers the state’s only Pete Dye Signature course plus The Player’s Grill for post-round bites. And beyond golf, there’s tennis, pickleball, fitness, aquatics, and help hosting outings or events.”

From the Maricopa newsletter, September 10, 2026

“Peoria Pines Golf & Restaurant packs a legit challenge into an executive 18 for West Valley golfers, with long fairways, water lurking, and even 527 and 510 yard par 5s that make you rethink club selection. Hit the driving range, snag tips from the pros, then refuel at the Albatross Bar & Restaurant.”

From the Glendale newsletter, September 8, 2026

“Castles N' Coasters is that Phoenix unicorn where mini golf, go-karts, bumper boats, roller coasters, and a big arcade all live in one place for maximum chaos, fun, and nostalgia. This week, rally the crew, pick a putter, then chase thrills and high scores for an easy, joy-filled reset.”

From the Phoenix newsletter, August 17, 2026

“Modern multiplex chain showing blockbusters & a few independent films; some venues offer childcare.”

“Whether you’re chasing a low score or just want a legit desert round without the scene, The 500 Golf Club at Adobe Dam Regional Park delivers. Home to the WM Phoenix Open Pre-Qualifier and The Futures Course, plus leagues, instruction, and outings that make golf feel like the neighborhood sport again.”

From the Surprise newsletter, August 19, 2026

“Tucked into Scottsdale’s McDowell foothills, Ancala Country Club pairs a Perry Dye 18 with desert views that make a double bogey feel oddly acceptable. Beyond the fairways, the pool, fitness center, racquet sports, and a lively calendar make it an easy go-to for families.”

From the Scottsdale newsletter, September 11, 2026

“Desert Mirage Golf Course in Glendale has a chill 9-hole executive layout to sharpen irons and short game, plus a newly refreshed range with Trackman in every bay so you can actually see your numbers and improve. Sneak in a quick round or post-work bucket under the lights with a cold drink.”

From the Casa Grande newsletter, August 28, 2026

“Public 18-hole golf course & a modern clubhouse with a restaurant, bar, pro shop & events space.”

“Built in the 1950s by the Army Corps of Engineers and owned by the Gila River Indian Community, Toka Sticks Golf Club is an iconic, all-skill-level track with great course conditions and legendary hospitality. Book a tee time this week and let that timeless desert vibe reset your brain.”

From the San Tan Valley newsletter, August 30, 2026

“If your couch is starting to feel clingy, Glendale Outdoor Theater keeps the classic drive-in magic alive with Laser Extreme showings, legit concessions, and that cozy watch-from-your-car vibe. Pick a flick this week and turn an ordinary evening into a laid-back West Valley ritual.”

From the Surprise newsletter, August 21, 2026

“Popular bowling alley with blacklit lanes, a bar and a modern arcade.”

“Trade the heat for actual speed at K1 Speed, where 20hp electric karts approach 45 mph on two indoor tracks. Stick around for arcade victories, pool and air hockey, then refuel at the Paddock Lounge with wings, Italian stone-fired pizza, and sliders you’ll think about all week.”

From the Phoenix newsletter, August 11, 2026

“Majestic Gilbert 8 is locally owned and serves first-run films with full-service dining and a real bar, delivered right to your recliner. Think gourmet appetizers, satisfying mains, and craft cocktails while the big screen does its thing, perfect for a San Tan Valley weeknight that needs a little upgrade.”

From the San Tan Valley newsletter, August 27, 2026

“Talking Stick Golf Club gives locals 36 holes of Coore and Crenshaw designed fun across the O’odham and Piipaash courses, wide fairways, and the largest driving range in the Valley. Community owned by the Salt River Pima Maricopa Indian Community, with a solid pro shop and The Grill when you’re ready to refuel.”

From the Fountain Hills newsletter, September 6, 2026

“Kid-friendly chain with bowling alley, laser tag and arcade games.”

“Championship golf course with an Italian eatery, sports boutique, and karaoke.”

“Entertainment center featuring trampolines, dodgeball, climbing walls and obstacle courses.”

“Bowlero Kyrene keeps the good times rolling with lively lanes, an action-packed arcade, billiards, and a legit sports bar menu, so your crew can bowl, snack, and cheer without melting in the desert heat. Perfect for weeknight stress relief or a Saturday showdown with friends.”

From the Maricopa newsletter, August 14, 2026

“KTR Chandler is the indoor action sports playground where kids can rotate between trampolines, a skate park, and soft play zones while you pretend this counts as cardio. They run stress-free birthday parties plus memberships and Toddler Time for ages 5 and under, perfect for beating the heat.”

From the Maricopa newsletter, August 18, 2026

“Sprawling park featuring trampolines for all ages, bull riding, Ninja-warrior courses, dodgeball courts and rock climbing.”

“Anthem Community Center Big Splash Water Park brings kid-pleasing chaos with two slides, an interactive play zone, and that big red bucket that drenches the deck with more than 200 gallons every four minutes. It’s for residents with an active membership, authorized guests, and approved competitive teams...”

From the Maricopa newsletter, September 4, 2026

“Set on old ranch grounds in Glendale, Sahuaro Ranch Park pairs wandering fowl with a bona fide historic house museum and solid play areas. A simple go-to when you want a mellow walk, a little local history, and the kids to climb something that isn’t your furniture.”

“The Splash Pad at Westgate’s Fountain Park is the unofficial backyard of West Valley parents, with kid-approved water jets and room to chill while you catch live music on Friday and Saturday evenings. Let the littles splash, you enjoy the vibes and a breather.”

From the Surprise newsletter, September 6, 2026

“Chain of indoor trampoline parks featuring freestyle bouncing, dodgeball, fitness programs & more.”

“If your couch has seen enough reruns, Harkins Theatres Scottsdale 101 keeps the big-screen energy going with new blockbusters plus a few indie surprises. Worth the drive from San Tan Valley when you want trailers, laughter, and that shared gasp you just can’t get at home.”

From the San Tan Valley newsletter, September 10, 2026

“Seville Golf & Country Club has championship golf with a photogenic 17th hole island green, plus a freshly transformed Sports Club with new Technogym equipment, Pilates reformer sessions, a recovery room, tennis and pickleball, four pools, and a 10,000-square-foot Sports Zone.”

From the San Tan Valley newsletter, August 23, 2026

“Tree-lined fairways, mountain views, and water on six holes make Orange Tree Golf Resort a sweet local test without the drama. Book a tee time, hit the practice facility, then unwind at The Sports Edition Bar & Patio for Scottsdale golf, minus the pretense.”

From the Fountain Hills newsletter, August 21, 2026

“Phoenix Mural by Kayla Newnam turns blank walls into playful, pattern-packed bursts of joy across Arizona, led by a Phoenix-based artist on a 50-state mural mission in her art camper with Gus and Pigeon. Keep an eye out for new collabs around town, then go spot the latest public art. Check it out.”

From the Phoenix newsletter, September 6, 2026

“The Legacy Golf Club bills itself as Phoenix’s #1 public golf course, and it backs it up with smooth greens, the Trails End Bar & Grill, a proper golf shop, and lessons through its Golf Channel Academy. Easy choice when you want resort vibes without the fuss.”

From the Phoenix newsletter, September 7, 2026

“Amusement place with burgers, pizza and hot dogs plus arcade games, claw machines, ticket-winning options and mini golf.”

“Clean indoor amusement park featuring trampoline courts, basketball and dodgeball courts, plus foam pits.”

“With 48 lanes, an arcade that actually keeps adults entertained, and bar-worthy bites from their sports bar, Lucky Strike Christown makes weeknights feel like weekends.”

From the Phoenix newsletter, August 28, 2026

“With two Arnold Palmer-designed courses, flexible tee sheets, and PGA pros to fine-tune your swing, The Clubs at Arrowhead is basically adult recess. Add pickleball and tennis courts, a fitness center, resort-style pools, plus dining and year-round events, and you’ve got a whole-week reset in one membership.”

From the Glendale newsletter, August 14, 2026

“Landmark Scottsdale Quarter Theatre mixes fresh arthouse gems with mainstream crowd-pleasers, presented with Dolby Digital sound and Xpand 3D, plus plush recliners, gourmet concessions, and a full-service bar. Make it your easy midweek reset, whether you’re chasing subtitles or just a solid family pick.”

From the Fountain Hills newsletter, August 20, 2026

“Golf course hosting the PGA Tour’s Phoenix Open, plus a restaurant.”

“Casual, dine-in cinema with a menu from an award-winning chef, plus state-of-the-art digital projection.”

“Arizona Grand Golf Course is a par 71 with dramatic elevation changes, mountain vistas, and a front-nine water tease that flips to true Sonoran desert on the back. Playable for all skill levels yet spicy enough to keep you honest, it’s a legit Phoenix golf staple.”

From the East Valley newsletter, August 12, 2026

“When you want a laid-back movie night that still feels a little special, Harkins Theatres Shea delivers current flicks, hot popcorn, and that neon-soaked vibe Scottsdale grew up with. Easy choice for last-minute plans or a midweek escape, no overthinking required.”

From the Scottsdale newsletter, September 10, 2026

“At Puttshack - Scottsdale, tech-infused 9-hole courses track your score for you while you sip craft cocktails and, yes, fork into pad thai. It’s an easy win for date night or a competitive crew, with indoor vibes and playful layouts that keep locals coming back for rematches.”

From the Fountain Hills newsletter, September 1, 2026

“Golfland Mini Golf Course keeps summer from winning with award-winning mini golf that’s actually fun to play, plus Sunsplash thrills if the crew needs a bigger adrenaline hit. Try Riptide, the Valley’s tallest slide, then settle friendly rivalries on the greens and call it a week.”

From the East Valley newsletter, August 20, 2026

“Grayhawk Golf Club delivers two public stunners in Raptor and Talon with the same spectacular conditions you brag about, plus legit post-round hangs. Play, then hit Isabella’s Kitchen or Quill Creek Restaurant & Grill, or grab coffee and a Bloody Mary at The Morning Joint, all open to everyone.”

From the Fountain Hills newsletter, August 12, 2026

“Upscale entertainment destination with bowling, craft food & cocktails, plus lively arcades.”

“Harkins Theatres Christown is that reliable neighborhood spot where big studio blockbusters share screens with the indie gems you meant to see weeks ago. Perfect for a spontaneous weeknight or a planned group outing, it keeps moviegoing easy and local, with the kind of energy Phoenix folks appreciate.”

From the Phoenix newsletter, September 1, 2026

“Designed by Dick Bailey, Power Ranch Golf Club threads through the Queen Creek wash with mountain views and eighteen fair-but-playable holes that welcome every swing. Sneak in a round this week, hit the range, then reward yourself at Slate Bistro with patio views worth lingering over.”

From the San Tan Valley newsletter, August 19, 2026

“Let Blasian AZ Wine Tours pick you up in style in Phoenix for a full-day, private tasting crawl through Verde Valley or Sonoita-Elgin, wine flights included with lunch options and 3 or 4 stops. No logistics, no designated driver duties, just Arizona bottles and your favorite people.”

From the Phoenix newsletter, August 14, 2026

“By day it's a lively public market with produce, clothes and more, by night West Wind Glendale 9 Drive-In turns into a giant outdoor screen with that Laser Extreme picture and classic concessions. Low-key hang with friends or kids without leaving the West Valley.”

From the Surprise newsletter, September 5, 2026

“Casual destination for mini golf, lawn games, beers and burgers, plus a playground for kids.”

“Chain of indoor trampoline parks featuring freestyle bouncing, dodgeball, fitness programs & more.”

“Kids-friendly indoor trampoline park with an open floor plan that features dodgeball, foam pits and climbing, as well as parties.”

“Modern multiplex chain showing blockbusters & a few independent films; some venues offer childcare.”

“Comfort food, beers, and cocktails are served in a relaxed restaurant with a golf driving range.”

“When you need a last-minute plan that isn’t another backyard hang, Harkins Theatres SanTan Village keeps the new releases rolling with the occasional indie pick, comfy sights and sounds, and that shared popcorn silence locals secretly love. Easy choice for date night or a spontaneous afternoon escape.”

From the San Tan Valley newsletter, September 6, 2026

“Party Jungle is a local indoor amusement park for ages 2 to 10 with carnival-style rides, mini golf, and a jungle gym. All-day play with no time limits and birthday rooms that make planning easy, so you can sit back while they go full jungle mode.”

From the Phoenix newsletter, August 15, 2026

“Phoenician Golf Club serves up a Phil Smith designed, 18-hole par 71 that keeps everything in front of you, no surprise bunkers. Choose from four tee sets spanning 4,575 to 6,518 yards, soak in Sonoran views, then celebrate at the 19th Hole.”

From the Fountain Hills newsletter, August 22, 2026

“Swap the couch for a proper big screen this week. Harkins Theatres Norterra keeps the lineup fresh with the big releases plus smaller gems, great sound that actually thumps, and popcorn you swear you’re sharing but somehow finish solo before the opening logos.”

From the Phoenix newsletter, August 22, 2026

“Games including blacklight lanes plus an arcade can be found at this clean facility, plus a bar, a pro shop and attentive staff.”

“Stonecreek Golf Club keeps locals happy with a meticulously maintained 18-hole, par-71 championship layout and sweeping mountain views, plus an expansive practice facility when the swing needs a tune-up. Reward yourself at Up The Creek after the round, then start plotting your next shot tomorrow.”

From the Phoenix newsletter, August 27, 2026

“Well-regarded golf club featuring an 18-hole course with 1995-opening holes designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr..”

“Member owned and ranked top 10 in Ranking Arizona 2025, Alta Mesa Golf Club brings a classic Dick Phelps 18-hole championship course with six lakes, tree-lined fairways, fast greens and a walkable layout, plus a 10-acre practice setup and a friendly staff.”

From the Queen Creek newsletter, September 4, 2026

“If your short game needs a reality check, Lookout Mountain Golf Club delivers 18 scenic holes through Sonoran desert and Phoenix North Mountains, a multi-award honoree from Golf Digest, Zagat, and readers of Arizona Business Magazine. Grab a tee time with a friend and let the views do half the work.”

From the Maricopa newsletter, August 26, 2026

“PXG Scottsdale packs a 35,000 square foot playground for gearheads, with three private, climate-controlled fitting bays running TrackMan and virtual simulators, plus a 1,170 square foot putter studio to dial in the flatstick. Swing by for sharp performance apparel, then cool off in the lounge and talk yardage.”

From the Scottsdale newsletter, September 4, 2026

“House hosts live bands, immersive exhibitions, and DJ-fueled nights that feel like a friend’s warehouse party with way better production. Locals go to catch the next weird, wonderful thing Walter Productions dreams up.”

From the Phoenix newsletter, September 5, 2026

“When you want a Scottsdale reset without leaving town, Gainey Ranch Golf Club delivers a tranquil 27-hole mix across three nines, with coaching or league play to sharpen things up, and post-round dining that reads foodie rather than “club fare”. Treat yourself this week.”

From the Fountain Hills newsletter, August 27, 2026

“Curious if we’re alone, UFO Experience is an educational exhibition spotlighting reported UFO sightings, alien abductions, and government documents.”

From the Fountain Hills newsletter, August 17, 2026

“Need a midweek big-screen fix without the fuss? Harkins Theatres Superstition Springs brings the latest releases plus real-deal snacks and sips... think made-to-order flatbreads, the Big Screen Burger, and cocktails or local craft beers from the in-theatre CINÉBAR, so your night out actually feels like one.”

From the San Tan Valley newsletter, August 13, 2026

“Whether you want a quick Mesa staycation or to roll straight from bed to the first tee, Westgate Painted Mountain Golf Resort lines you up next to the fairways with modern studios and suites, an outdoor pool, games, and two hot tubs to soak away the scorecard.”

From the San Tan Valley newsletter, September 11, 2026

“Golf Ranch Glendale keeps practice fun with Trackman in every bay and a relaxed 9-hole executive course when you want to test it on real greens. Walk in after work, groove the swing, and track your progress at a West Valley spot that actually helps you get better.”

From the West Valley newsletter, September 4, 2026

“Golf course with an 18-hole short course and driving range, plus an on-site restaurant.”

“Friendly staff at this clean jump park with a cafe and party rooms (birthday bashes: 27, 33, 34).”

“Cutthroat Cove Blacklight Mini Golf turns a quick East Valley hang into a full on pirate quest, with a 9-hole, neon-lit course and custom obstacles that actually make you laugh when you lip out. Stick around for ticket arcade battles, a prize kiosk haul, and private glow-room birthdays.”

From the East Valley newsletter, September 5, 2026