Glendale, Arizona is located just west of Phoenix and offers visitors an enticing mix of outdoor adventures, cultural attractions, and family fun. As the sixth largest city in Arizona, Glendale has a lot to offer beyond just being a Phoenix suburb. From exploring unique museums to catching a Coyotes game, here are 10 of the top things to see and do in Glendale.
1. Check Out the Musical Instrument Museum
Home to the world’s largest collection of musical instruments, the Musical Instrument Museum (MIM) is a must-see attraction in Glendale. With over 6,500 rare and exceptional instruments and artifacts from around the globe, MIM takes visitors on a fascinating journey through the traditions, techniques, and cultural contexts of music-making.
Highlights include an extraordinary array of Indonesian gamelan ensembles, Japanese shakuhachi flutes, and African massed percussion assemblies. Hands-on interactive exhibits allow you to play some of the instruments as well. Plan to spend at least a couple hours exploring this one-of-a-kind museum.
2. Stroll Through the Desert Botanical Garden
Located just a short distance from MIM, the Desert Botanical Garden is a beautiful 140-acre oasis nestled against the Phoenix Mountains. Here you can immerse yourself in the wonders of the Sonoran Desert biome through diverse plant collections, art installations, and scenic walking trails.
Highlights include a collection of rare desert trees and cacti, a re-created Hohokam village, and special seasonal displays. Be sure to visit during the spring bloom for a spectacular show of colorful wildflowers. Take time to admire small but unique desert plants and learn about their importance for desert ecology. The garden is also a great spot for photography with scenic desert backdrops.
3. Go to a Coyotes Hockey Game
One of the top things to do for sports fans visiting Glendale is catching a game of the Arizona Coyotes at Gila River Arena. As the Valley’s only major league pro sports team, the Coyotes games offer high-energy entertainment for hockey enthusiasts. Even if you’re not a huge hockey fan, the lively atmosphere and enthusiastic crowds make a Coyotes match worth attending.
Stop by team stores around the arena to pick up gear showing your colors. Try to attend if there’s a game against a big rival like the Red Wings or Golden Knights to experience heightened drama and excitement on the ice. Check the schedule in advance to find a game during your Glendale visit.
4. Check Out Westgate Entertainment District
A top family-friendly destination in Glendale is Westgate Entertainment District, a vibrant outdoor shopping, dining and entertainment complex. With its desert-modern aesthetic and lush landscaping, Westgate offers a fun-filled day of activities.
Beyond shopping at retailers like American Eagle Outfitters, check out movie theatres playing the latest blockbusters. There’s also a huge video arcade, mini golf, and an ice rink for winter skating. Stop for a bite at numerous casual eateries lining the plazas and alleyways. On weekends, live bands or other performers often fill the main stage area. Westgate is a one-stop shop for all your shopping, dining and entertainment needs.
5. Explore the Heard Museum
Dedicated to promoting American Indian art and culture, the Heard Museum is a top cultural attraction in Phoenix’s West Valley. The stunning Southwestern-style architecture provides a beautiful setting to experience diverse Native American traditions. Walk through the galleries to admire exquisite pieces like Navajo weavings, Zuni silverwork, and Hopi kachina dolls.
Temporary exhibits often feature up-and-coming contemporary Indigenous artists. Take a workshop to try your hand at crafts like pottery or beading. Don’t miss the museum’s innovative cafe serving Native-inspired New American cuisine. With its engaging exhibits and events, the Heard Museum offers great insights into American Indian cultures.
6. Check Out ArtLink’s First Friday Art Walks
For an eclectic evening out, don’t miss ArtLink’s monthly First Friday Art Walk held in downtown Glendale. On the first Friday of every month, hundreds of locals and visitors descend on Glendale Avenue to peruse unique artwork at pop-up galleries, shops, restaurants and other venues.
Walk the lively streets to browse diverse pieces by local and regional artists working in mediums like painting, sculpture, photography and more. Many locations host live music or other live performances during the art walk as well. It’s a fun, cultural way to see Glendale’s growing creative scene and support the local art community. The festive vibe and discovery of new art make this a top Glendale experience.
7. Go to OdySea Aquarium
A visit to Glendale wouldn’t be complete without checking out OdySea Aquarium, one of the largest in the Southwest. Home to over 2,000 animals representing over 350 species, this impressive aquarium offers an entertaining look at marine life. Highlights include the Shark Tunnel giving you face-to-face views of sand tiger sharks and stingrays.
Don’t miss feeding demonstrations at stingray and sea lion exhibits. The walk-through aviary lets you spot colorful birds up close. Interactive zones help explain concepts like ocean conservation. With its diverse animals and informative exhibits, OdySea Aquarium provides a fun, educational outing for all ages.
8. Explore Historic Downtown Glendale
For a taste of early Arizona history, dedicate an afternoon to exploring Glendale’s charming Historic Downtown District. Stroll along Historic Route 66 through the quaint tree-lined streets dotted with restored buildings. Admire beautiful Spanish Colonial architecture and murals adorning buildings. Pop into indie shops selling unique gifts, clothing and crafts.
Sample tempting cuisine in restaurants housed in early 20th century structures. Make sure to check out the Glendale Main Library for its wonderful Route 66 and regional history exhibits. Wandering through this quiet district transports you back in time to simpler days. With its authentic small-town charm, Historic Downtown Glendale offers a delightful break from modern hustle and bustle.
9. Go to a Spring Training Baseball Game
During baseball’s spring training season from February to April, Glendale transforms into a mecca for America’s pastime. Both the Los Angeles Dodgers and Chicago White Sox call Camelback Ranch home for their training camps and exhibition games. Catch an afternoon game between the teams to check out future MLB stars in a more relaxed ballpark setting.
More affordable than regular season games, spring training is perfect for families and casual fans alike. Take a stroll around the facilities to glimpse players practicing or grab autographs. With its sunny weather and casual baseball atmosphere, there’s no better place to soak in spring training season vibes like in Glendale.
10. Spend a Day at Westgate Entertainment District
A top family-friendly destination in Glendale is Westgate Entertainment District, a vibrant outdoor shopping, dining and entertainment complex. With its desert-modern aesthetic and lush landscaping, Westgate offers a fun-filled day of activities. Beyond shopping at retailers like American Eagle Outfitters, check out movie theatres playing the latest blockbusters.
There’s also a huge video arcade, mini golf, and an ice rink for winter skating. Stop for a bite at numerous casual eateries lining the plazas and alleyways. On weekends, live bands or other performers often fill the main stage area. Westgate is a one-stop shop for all your shopping, dining and entertainment needs.
From unique museums and botanical gardens to sporting events and shopping, Glendale offers diverse attractions for all types of visitors. Be sure to set aside a couple days to experience the top things this city has to offer between Phoenix and the West Valley. With its intriguing blend of history, culture and family fun, Glendale makes for an exciting Arizona day trip or short vacation.