If you’re planning a visit to Glendale, Arizona, you’ll find plenty to keep you entertained, whether you’re into sports, outdoor adventures, or checking out local food spots. This city blends a lively atmosphere with a mix of things to see and do throughout the year.
You can explore everything from stadiums and arenas to scenic trails and shopping districts, making Glendale a great place to spend a day or a whole weekend. There’s something for everyone, so you can easily plan your trip around the experiences that interest you most.
1) Glendale
If you’re planning a visit to Glendale, you’ll find a city packed with things to do, a mix of local energy, and plenty of community events. It’s a hub in the West Valley that’s known for everything from shopping and entertainment to sports and simple neighborhood parks.
Check out one of the city’s big annual events or wander through downtown for a bite to eat or a drink. Glendale’s calendar is constantly full, whether it’s a free comic book event at the library or local workshops open to everyone.
The city includes several parks, shopping areas, and entertainment venues where you can relax or catch some live action. There are also community-driven programs you can join, and the city posts updates on local workshops and public meetings on their website.
Location: Glendale, Arizona
Website: Visit Website
2) Sahuaro Ranch Park
If you want a spot in Glendale that mixes history with outdoor fun, Sahuaro Ranch Park is the place to go. The grounds are packed with cool old ranch buildings, gardens, orchards, and even wandering peacocks. You can stroll through the historic area, catch the sights of colorful birds, or check out the old house museum.
Head to the playgrounds, bring the kids, or set up a picnic under one of the covered ramadas. There are tons of picnic tables and grills, and larger groups can reserve space if needed. The park also has several communal sinks, making it easy to set up and clean after a meal with friends or family.
If you’re bringing your dog, there’s a dedicated dog park where pups can run around leash-free. Sports fans will find softball fields, lighted soccer fields, and sand volleyball courts available. You could easily spend a whole morning or afternoon here, whether you’re into sports, relaxing outdoors, or just checking out Glendale’s history.
Rating: 4.7 (4147 reviews)
Location: Sahuaro Ranch Park
Contact: (623) 930-2820
Website: Visit Website
3) Thunderbird Conservation Park
If you love the outdoors, Thunderbird Conservation Park is your spot for fresh air and scenery. The park has over 1,100 acres of preserved desert landscape right in the Hedgpeth Hills, making it a relaxing break from city life without going far. You’ll find trails that are great for hiking, jogging, mountain biking, and even horseback riding.
You can pick from several trail options, ranging from easy routes like the Flatlander and Desert Iguana to more challenging paths such as Arrowhead Point and Cholla Loop. There’s around 15 miles of trails, so it’s easy to find a path that fits your mood or ability for the day. Bring plenty of water and some snacks, because it’s always smart to be prepared in the desert.
Need a chill spot? There are picnic areas and peaceful zones where you can enjoy the view or meet up with friends after your trek. The park asks that everyone stay on the marked trails and respect the desert environment to help keep it beautiful for all visitors.
Rating: 4.8 (1111 reviews)
Location: Thunderbird Conservation Park on Google Maps
Contact: (623) 930-2820
Website: Visit Website
4) Deer Valley Petroglyph Preserve
If you’re looking for a peaceful spot away from the city, check out the Deer Valley Petroglyph Preserve. This site features a self-guided nature trail that’s about a quarter-mile long, winding through desert terrain and ancient rock art.
Along the trail, you’ll spot hundreds of petroglyphs carved by Indigenous peoples. Interpretive displays provide some background, and there’s a free audio tour to help you learn more as you go. Keep an eye out for native desert plants and wildlife, too.
Inside, the museum and gallery display archaeological research and artifacts, mainly focused on the Southwest. ASU faculty and students keep the learning fresh with ongoing projects, guided tours, and lectures. Plan your visit for Tuesday through Saturday, as the site is closed on Sundays and Mondays.
Rating: 4.5 (264 reviews)
Location: 3711 W Deer Vly Rd, Glendale, AZ 85308
Contact: (623) 582-8007
Website: Visit Website
5) Westgate Entertainment District
If you’re looking for a place in Glendale where you can check out shops, grab a bite to eat, or catch some live music on the weekend, head to Westgate Entertainment District. This open-air complex packs in a mix of restaurants, bars, and big-name retailers, so there’s something for everyone.
You’ll find fun pop-up events throughout the year—like floral displays in the spring or a monthly night market with different vendors. Free parking makes it easy to pop in, even on busy event days, and the walkable layout means you can go from dinner to a movie or a live show without having to move your car.
It’s right next door to Glendale’s major sports stadiums, making it a popular spot before or after games for Cardinals and Rattlers fans. There’s always something happening, whether you want to shop, chill, or just people-watch.
Rating: 4.6 (19,647 reviews)
Location: 6770 N Sunrise Blvd, Glendale, AZ 85305
Contact: (480) 387-5678
Website: Visit Website
6) Glendale Xeriscape Garden
If you want to see what a desert garden can really look like, check out the Glendale Xeriscape Garden. This spot shows off hundreds of low-water-use plants, so you can get inspiration for your own yard while wandering the garden paths. It’s right around the Glendale Main Library, so you could stop in before or after your visit.
The garden is open every day from dawn to dusk and is totally free. You’re encouraged to stay on the trails, wear closed-toe shoes, and supervise your kids as you explore. Dogs are welcome too, as long as they’re on a leash and you clean up after them.
You can walk the garden in person or take a virtual tour from home. There are maps available so you can see different plant areas and plan your route. No matter how you visit, there’s plenty to learn about desert landscaping and water conservation.
Rating: 4.6 (818 reviews)
Location: 5959 W Brown St, Glendale, AZ 85302
Contact: (623) 930-3596
Website: Visit Website
7) Glendale Glitters
If you’re looking for one of Glendale’s most festive traditions, Glendale Glitters should be at the top of your list. This annual event transforms the downtown area into a sparkling wonderland with thousands of holiday lights, making it a fun destination for families and friends.
You can stroll under glowing trees, enjoy live music, and check out food vendors along the historic streets. Local shops and eateries often join in, offering seasonal specials and unique finds. There are usually kids’ activities and photo opportunities scattered throughout the festival, so don’t forget your camera.
It’s held in the heart of Glendale, making it easy to add to your holiday plans. The atmosphere is lively, and the event attracts visitors from across the Valley. Dress warmly and arrive early to find parking, especially on the busiest nights.
Rating: 4.2 (4231 reviews)
Location: N 58th Ave & W Glendale Ave, 5800 W Glenn Dr, Glendale, AZ 85301
Contact: (623) 930-2299
Website: Visit Website
8) Martin Auto Museum and Event Center
If you’re into cars or just like seeing unique collections, the Martin Auto Museum and Event Center is worth checking out. With over 170 vehicles on display, there’s everything from classic cars and hot rods to imports and customs, so you’ll see a lot of automotive history in one spot.
Aside from cars, the museum surprises with a huge assortment of auto memorabilia. Antique gas pumps and vintage signs cover the walls, giving you a sense of what old school road trips looked like. Kids under 5 can get in free, and there are special prices for children and seniors.
The museum is open Tuesday through Sunday from 9 am to 5 pm. If you’re looking for a spot to host an event, they also offer rental options for gatherings in unique surroundings.
Rating: 4.9 (1333 reviews)
Location: 4320 W Thunderbird Rd, Glendale, AZ 85306
Contact: (602) 298-2377
Website: Visit Website
9) Manistee Ranch
Manistee Ranch is a quiet spot in Glendale where you can step back into the late 1800s. Built in 1897, this former ranch lets you tour its original house, barn, office, and garage, all surrounded by palms that have been growing for over a century.
Walking through the main house, you’ll see antique furnishings and local historic artifacts. Down in the basement, you’ll find old photographs and farming equipment, giving you a peek at how ranch life was in the early days.
The grounds are filled with palm trees and a garden where you can sit and relax. Manistee Ranch once raised livestock and grew dates and citrus, and you can still spot some of the date palms that supplied the city with fresh fruit.
If you enjoy learning about the roots of a place, it’s definitely worth a visit for a low-key afternoon. The property is open daily from sunrise to sunset.
Rating: 4.6 (296 reviews)
Location: 5127 W Northern Ave, Glendale, AZ 85301
Contact: (623) 435-0072
Website: Visit Website
10) Fountain Park
When you’re looking for a spot to unwind in Glendale, Fountain Park is an easy pick. It’s a lovely green space where you can take a relaxing walk, let the kids burn off some energy, or just hang out under the trees.
There’s a large fountain right in the center, making it a popular backdrop for photos. Benches are scattered around, so you can sit back and enjoy the atmosphere or watch a game of catch on the open grass.
Fountain Park is also pretty close to shopping options and restaurants, so you can grab a bite or a coffee and come back to enjoy the outdoors. It’s a great spot to slow down and catch your breath in the middle of a busy day.
Rating: 4.5 (594 reviews)
Location: 6751 N Sunset Blvd, Glendale, AZ 85305
