Destinations across Arizona are famous for delivering lasting impressions to visitors. But what makes this place truly special is its ability to inspire an ongoing adventurous spirit in visitors and residents. Wide-open spaces, road-trip excursions, bucket-list experiences and a bit of the unexpected beckon from every corner of the Grand Canyon State. We encourage explorers of every level to heed the call!
Extending a trip in Arizona is easy when you have access to the right tools. Below are a few suggestions, with many more at visitarizona.com
Inarguably breathtaking, the Grand Canyon is Arizona’s own Natural Wonder of the World and the state’s most-visited attraction. If you’ve never experienced it in person, consider this your standing invitation!
Stretching 277 miles from end to end, the canyon’s multi-hued rock walls descend more than a mile to the Colorado River below. There are myriad ways to explore the Grand Canyon, from scenic rim overlooks to hiking trails to air tours.
Arizona’s 120+ wineries, tasting rooms and vineyards across three major wine regions offer truly unique experiences. Just north of Phoenix, the green-and-gold Verde Valley is home to numerous wineries and tasting rooms. The adventurous should try the Water-toWine excursion which combines kayaking on the cool Verde River and wine tasting!
Southern Arizona offers two main wine regions around the communities of Sonoita/Elgin and Willcox. The vast lands and abundant monsoon rains produce 3/4 of the state’s wine grapes, which are ultimately crafted into award-winning varietals. Whichever region you visit, we’re confident you’ll be delighted by the unexpected flavors of Arizona wine and unbeatable fun of enjoying vino the Arizona way!
Road trips are most memorable when they include small towns with big personalities.
Several such towns are located along Route 66, which cruises across northern Arizona. Fans of the hit-making band the Eagles will appreciate “standin’ on a corner in Winslow, Arizona.” Down the road, in Kingman, day-trippers will find classic cars, neon signs and the Historic Route 66 Museum.
Another cool escape north of Phoenix is the mile-high city of Prescott. It’s famous for Whiskey Row, a collection of saloons that sprung up during the gold rush to quench the thirst of miners, gamblers and outlaws. The town is filled with Victorian architecture and boasts 700 buildings listed in the National Register of Historic Places.
Southern Arizona is also home to the famously charming mile-high town of Bisbee. USA Today named Bisbee America’s best historic small town, and Frommer’s declared it one of the “Best Places to Go” in the world in 2018. This former mining camp is now populated by artists and free spirits whose wares fill shops and galleries on Main Street. Off the main drag, murals adorn alley walls and sculptures decorate the tiny yards of Victorian homes.
Arizona’s ability to surprise and delight awaits every visitor. I invite you to enjoy the diversity and splendor of the Grand Canyon State!
Johnson Director, Arizona Office of Tourism
“Wide-open spaces, road-trip excursions, bucket-list experiences and a bit of the unexpected beckon from every corner of the Grand Canyon State.”
By Vanessa Day
hen the travel bug bites, what’s your first choice for outdoor excitement? If you’re seeking endless adventure for travelers of all ages, then Arizona deserves a place at the top of the list. Strategically located airports and well-maintained roads and highways make finding your way a breeze. Amazing weather, a wide variety of activities and a welcoming vibe make for a perfect year-round destination.
Situated in the high country mountains of northern Arizona, Flagstaff caters to all kinds of adventure seekers. As the world’s first designated International Dark Sky Community, Flagstaff is known for its prime stargazing spots. Visit Lowell Observatory, where Pluto was discovered, and learn about cosmic phenomena. Take the crew on a hike along the Urban Trail system, made up of more than 50 miles of trails around the city.
After taking a convenient flight into Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport, which is served by all major airlines and has 1,200+ daily arrivals and departures, head south for about an hour to Casa Grande, considered the state’s relaxation station. Take the family on a stroll of historic downtown, comprising more than 40 historic structures, and settle in for a scrumptious meal at one of the many eateries serving up signature dishes.
In the morning, head to nearby Picacho Peak State Park, home to one of the most famous summits in the Sonoran Desert. The 4,000-acre park boasts miles of hiking and mountain bike trails, as well as spots for rock climbing and camping. Continue your drive down to Tucson, the second largest city in Arizona, located less than 30 minutes from the park. Keep the outdoor experiences going with a visit to Saguaro National Park, home to more than 2 million giant Saguaro cactuses, the universal symbol of the Southwest. It also features over 90,000 acres of explorable terrain.
Arizona’s western edge delivers prime outdoor excitement and is easily accessible from several parts of the country either by car or plane. Located just off I-40, Lake Havasu City is considered Arizona’s playground thanks to its 60 miles of waterways and ideal weather all year round. After you arrive, spend a day on the water with the family. Rent a personal watercraft and speed along the waves, relax as you float on a pontoon or soak in the scenery on the Havasu Landing Ferry.
After a day or two in Lake Havasu, make your way south along the Colorado River to Yuma, known as the sunniest city on earth. If you’re ready to get your heart pumping, head west to the Imperial Sand Dunes, where you and the crew can take an ATV ride over dunes reaching 300 feet into the air.
As the state capital and the largest city in Arizona, Phoenix has more than enough attractions to keep the family fun going for several days. Start your trip off in Phoenix, and take a morning hike at South Mountain Park Preserve, featuring over 50 miles of trails.
Just east of Phoenix is Scottsdale, known for its glitz and glam. There’s plenty of family fun to be had at this upscale vacation destination. Bring the family on a low-key walk on the Bajada Nature Trail or explore one of more than 400 trails surrounding the area. After a hike, head to the Lower Salt River for an afternoon on the water kayaking, tubing or stand-up paddleboarding.
The college community of Tempe, just south of Scottsdale and east of Phoenix, is home to Arizona State University athletics and is packed with a variety of things to see and do. Check out Tempe Town Lake, a man-made reservoir that’s perfect for fishing, kayaking and paddleboarding.
To the east of Phoenix, Mesa also buzzes with activity. Its Fresh Foodie Trail is a must-do for those who relish unique culinary offerings. Families can experience worldclass eateries and munch on dishes created with locally sourced ingredients.
On the west side of Phoenix, you’ll find Glendale. Take the crew on a walk through the historic downtown area, lined with boutiques and antique shops and pick up a few unique keepsakes. As one of the last working cattle ranches in the area, Manistee Ranch offers a glimpse into the past like you’ve never experienced.
Over in Chandler, east of Phoenix, you’ll discover Veterans Oasis Park, which features a lake and trail system families love to explore. And the Chandler Solar System Walk is a great way to enjoy the outdoors and learn a little something.
The town of Gilbert, also just east of Phoenix, is home to several great outdoor escapes, including Riparian Preserve at Water Ranch. The 110-acre park features nearly five miles of trails, and is home to hundreds of bird species, insects, reptiles, fish and mammals.
These are just a small fraction of the adventures awaiting visitors to Arizona. No matter the length of your trip or your appetite for exploration, the Grand Canyon State is ready to fill your itinerary with fun. Start planning here: VisitArizona. com/sports.
Arizona is unrivaled as a destination for top-tier sports and other major events. The state’s teams, leagues and facilities host exciting experiences year-round for sports families and fans. Combine that with the Arizona hospitality industry’s expertise and enthusiasm and the stage is set for an amazing experience on every visit.
Few states can rival Arizona’s strong track record of hosting successful events. Preparations are underway to host Super Bowl LVII at State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona, and for an exciting week of public events leading up to it. This marks the fourth time the state has been selected by the NFL for this honor.
Big-time events don’t end with the Super Bowl. Arizona will also host the 2024 NCAA Men’s Final Four, 2026 NCAA Women’s Final Four and NASCAR’s Championship Weekend for a third consecutive time in 2022. Couple these with annual events including Cactus League Spring Training, the Waste Management Phoenix Open PGA Tour golf tournament and the Vrbo Fiesta Bowl and it shows why organizers continue to choose Arizona. They’re confident the state will provide a toptier visitor experience to every fan before and after the game. With state-of-the-art facilities and stadiums and 325 days of sunshine per year, Arizona is the perfect locale to host any event. Read on about Arizona’s newer and recently renovated facilities, which help show why it’s such a popular destination.
This massive 320-acre facility in Mesa opened in 2022 and hosts Legacy Sports USA‘s youth, adult and amateur sports teams. It serves as a venue for events, concerts, youth sports tournaments and fitness opportunities. It offers facilities for just about every sport, including eight baseball and softball fields (convertible to 16 Little League fields), 19 basketball courts (high school and college/NBA-regulation courts), 35 soccer, football and lacrosse fields, 57 indoor volleyball courts, 12 beach volleyball courts, 41 pickleball courts and a 2,000-seat stadium and 22 futsal courts.
American Family Fields unveiled a $60 million state-ofthe-art renovation in 2019. The 7,000-seat main stadium got wider concourses and a practice field mimicking the dimensions of the stadium of its home team, the Milwaukee Brewers. A pathway from the parking lots was also added to afford fans a glimpse at players practicing on an agility field during game days.
Home to both the Arizona Diamondbacks and Colorado Rockies, Salt River Fields near Scottsdale was built in conjunction with the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community as the first professional sports facility on tribal lands. With roughly 85 percent of the seating area shaded as games progress, it has become one of Spring Training’s most
sought-after tickets. This sprawling facility offers 7,000 fixed seats and 4,000 outfield lawn seats, four major league fields, and eight minor league fields.
Scottsdale Stadium was designed by the architects of Baltimore’s famed Camden Yards, and features turn-of-thecentury lamps, framed antique baseball gloves and home plate-shaped sidewalk bricks. The San Francisco Giants, which call the stadium home, and the city of Scottsdale unveiled a $50 million upgrade to the facility in 2020, adding a 40,000-square-foot clubhouse and a training complex.
The Cubs have a long association with Mesa as their Spring Training home and recently moved into the state-of-theart Sloan Park. The ballpark seats 15,000 and is designed to evoke a similar feeling to the Cubs’ regular season home of Wrigley Field. The Nike Performance Center is a short walk from the stadium and includes a 70,000-square-foot home for Major and Minor League operations.
Home of the Phoenix Suns of the NBA and the Phoenix Mercury of the WNBA, the Footprint Center in downtown Phoenix completed an expansive $230 million renovation in 2021. The multifaceted project adds a variety of premium offerings including clubs, suites, premium seating options, themed bars and other social spaces. Existing suites have been reimagined as theater boxes and all-inclusive party boxes with access to exclusive lounge spaces.
Visitors to Arizona are sure to be wowed by its incredible weather and its state-of-the-art stadiums and sports facilities. Plan your trip today at visitarizona.com/sports.
Scan to discover more of what Arizona Sports & Entertainment Commission offers sports planners at SportsPlanningGuide.com
“Nikki and her team have bent over backward to ensure our team has everything they need at the lowest possible cost to our department. ASEC’s partner relationships make coming to Arizona a no-brainer for anyone!”
— Mario Moccia, New Mexico State Athletic Director
The Arizona Sports & Entertainment Commission (ASEC) is among the oldest sports commissions in the United States. The mission of the Arizona Sports & Entertainment Commission is to represent the citizens of Arizona to bring sporting events to the state, assist in the promotion of existing events, and support youth and amateur sports programs.
State Farm Stadium isn’t Arizona’s only spectacular sports venue. From Flagstaff to Yuma and everywhere in between, our facilities are state-ofthe-art and event ready. The Arizona Sports and Entertainment Commission has the infrastructure of partners to accommodate any organization that wants to put on an event in Arizona.
The Arizona Sports & Entertainment Commission operates as an independent 501 (c) (3) organization and is led by a volunteer board of directors. ASEC’s goal is to make Arizona the country’s No. 1 sports destination. What sets us apart, our experience, our relationships, and our amazing volunteers.
EXPERIENCE: ASEC’s staff has vast experience in managing an extensive variety of sporting events ranging from the amateur to the professional level. Our expertise is wide-ranging and covers every aspect of an event. Specific events experience includes, but is not limited to the NOVA Home Loans Arizona Bowl, Grand Canyon State Games, Lori Piestewa National Native American Games, the Fiesta and Cactus Bowls, 2016 College Football Playoff National Championship, and the 2017 NCAA Final Four.
RELATIONSHIPS: ASEC has relationships with many local businesses that will significantly contribute to the success of this event while providing significant cost savings. These relationships include local signage producers,
photographers, facilities, food vendors, production, A/V, equipment rentals, hotels, restaurants, and merchandisers. ASEC also has strong ties to government entities on the state and local levels. These ties include convention and visitors bureaus around the state, the Arizona Office of Tourism, the Arizona Sports & Tourism Authority, chambers of commerce, and mayoral offices.
VOLUNTEERS: ASEC has a volunteer database of over 1,500 members that strive to serve the community by assisting in the execution and growth of sporting events in Arizona. This diverse set of volunteers is available to all event operators and provides valuable assistance to organizations that run events in our State.
Nikki Balich, Executive Director 480-517-9700
nikki@azsportsent.com www.azsportsent.com
Given all of that, it’s no wonder Arizona is where champions train and play. When you’re ready to play in the big leagues, plan with us.
Located between Phoenix and Tucson, friendly Casa Grande offers history, agriculture, family fun and outdoor adventures for the whole family.
Visitors can stroll through historic downtown Casa Grande, one of Arizona’s Main Street communities, which features more than 40 buildings in national and local historic registers. After dark, pay a visit to Casa Grande Neon Sign Park, an outdoor museum with more than a dozen glowing signs.
Stroll through Casa Grande Main Street, which is the historical downtown district and the heart of Casa Grande’s hometown charm. Enjoy dining at the locally owned unique restaurants.
Ed Hooper Rodeo Park houses the Paul Mason Sports Complex, children’s playground equipment, picnic tables, BBQ grills, restrooms, two ramadas, rodeo facilities, outdoor amphitheater, archery range, and the “Leash on Life” Dog Park.
This beautiful park is home to a multitude of amenities including the Dave White Municipal Golf Course. Other main features include 12 pickleball courts, a basketball court, racquetball courts, multi-purpose turf field, and volleyball courts all with modern LED lighting. A unique feature is the city’s only public fishing lake that is part of the State of Arizona’s Community Fishing Program. Four ramadas, two restrooms, two
Scan to discover more of what Greater Casa Grande Chamber of Commerce offers sports planners at SportsPlanningGuide.com
Casa Grande Mountain Park
playgrounds, numerous parking areas, and connected sidewalks complete the park.
Casa Grande Mountain Park is a great place to hike as the 1,025-acre park has more than 12 miles of non-motorized trails. The system is made up of stacked loops with varying levels of difficulty anchored by the 4.86-mile Ridge Trail that traces the mountain’s eastern flank.
Renee Louzon-Benn 520-836-2125 president@casagrandechamber.org casagrandechamber.org
Scan to discover more of what Visit Chandler offers sports planners at SportsPlanningGuide.com
“We were introduced to the Chandler community five years ago and we now host over 10 running events in Chandler annually and consider Visit Chandler one of the most welcoming and supportive organizations we work with and an integral part in each of our event success stories.”
Located in southeast greater Phoenix, with easy access to both PHX Sky Harbor International Airport and Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport, Chandler embodies an active lifestyle with more than 65 city parks, many of which are home to award-winning sports venues and open spaces for picnics, a pleasant stroll or playtime with the family.
▶ Disconnecting at the end of the day is easy with family-friendly attractions and one of the best communities in the metro Phoenix region to indulge and imbibe throughout Chandler. Each neighborhood area serves something new, from dinner destinations housed in historic buildings to havens for fans of international eats.
Located in east Chandler, the Chandler Tennis Center is a proud recipient of the United States Tennis Association (USTA) Featured Facility Award. The facility features 15 renovated, lighted tennis courts, casual seating for spectators, 3,000 sq. ft. lobby area with Wi-Fi, concessions, bathrooms, and locker rooms. The facility is home to several USTA tournaments and located within the master-planned, Tumbleweed Park filled with dedicated play areas and ramadas.
Baseball, softball, soccer, skating, cricket
Named after fallen Chandler Officer James Snedigar, the facility is a massive 90-acre sports complex located in South Chandler. Featuring two professional-sized baseball fields, four softball fields, four Little League baseball fields, 12 soccer fields, a skate park, a full-sized cricket field and bathrooms.
—
SheriNichols, Managing Director 131 Event Productions
Located in South Chandler, Tumbleweed Park is a 250-acre master planned park that is an excellent venue for sporting events and festivals. In addition to the Chandler Tennis Center, the park features 11 multi-purpose fields (nine are lighted), running paths, 14 covered ramadas, a 2.5 acre play structure and dedicated parking with easy ingress and egress from the 202 SanTan freeway.
Kimberly Janes 480-782-3037
kimberly.janes@chandleraz.gov www.VisitChandler.com
Scan to discover more of what Discover Flagstaff offers sports planners at SportsPlanningGuide.com
Located in the high country mountains of northern Arizona, Flagstaff’s four seasons are enviable by many. Summer temperatures average in the low 80s with sapphire blue skies and crisp mountain air, while the bounty continues into Fall with a panoramic canvas of aspen and foliage. Winter adventures await with an average 108″ of snowfall in downtown, while Spring offers breathtaking beauty of blooms.
▶ Flagstaff is a popular outdoor destination and is home to a variety of trail systems. The city has easy access to majestic mountains and canyons including the Grand Canyon, whose South Rim is less than a mile from Flagstaff.
The new Wall Aquatic Center, located in the Aquatic and Tennis Complex on the campus of Northern Arizona University, offers NAU and the Flagstaff community one of the finest high-altitude swimming facilities in the world. The facility features a 50-meter by 25-yard competitive pool with a movable bulkhead to convert it to Olympic size. It also houses a separate 25-meter by 25-yard by 17-foot-deep dive tank with a three-line 10-meter dive tower and one and three-meter springboards.
Home to the Northern Arizona football, men’s and women’s basketball and indoor track and field teams, it is one of the most unique venues in all of college athletics. Open for 44 years, the dome underwent a major renovation in 2010-11, at a cost of $26 million. Fans enter the 10,000-
seat building to a panoramic view of the field on the east and west concourses and their comfort is ensured with 21-inch-wide chair back seating. Once the largest wood-span structure of its kind in the world, the Skydome covers an area of 6.2 acres, with the roof spanning more than 500 feet and rising 142 feet above the playing surface. The Skydome showcases a REALGRASS surface installed in the spring of 2008. The 96,000-square-foot surface is covered with Mondo and the track contains a six-lane, 300-meter non-banked loop with the infield containing enough area for six NCAA-standard basketball and volleyball courts as well as two regulation tennis courts.
Jessica Young 928-213-2920
jyoung@flagstaffaz.gov www.meetinflagstaff.org
Scan to discover more of what Gilbert, Arizona offers sports planners at SportsPlanningGuide.com
“Cactus Yards is the best overall ballpark in the state of Arizona for our baseball tournaments and leagues. It’s also now nationally recognized by out-of-state teams as the place they want to play, bringing in economic impact to the community.”
— Rick Perreault,
Residing east of Chandler and south of Mesa, Gilbert has surged from an agricultural community into an Arizona hot spot. Gilbert’s popularity grows by the day as excellent restaurants continue to open in its revitalized downtown while its art scene grows more renowned.
▶ Downtown Gilbert, known by the locals as the Heritage District, is a collection of more than 30 restaurants in a vibrant space.
▶ Riparian Preserve at Water Ranch covers 110 acres and houses approximately 298 species of birds.
Cactus Yards offers an experience like few others. Guests can play like a professional at one of its eight ballfields modeled after legendary major league fields: Ebbets Field, Sportsman’s Park, Dbacks Field, Wrigley Field, Yankee Stadium, Angel Stadium, Fenway Park and the Polo Grounds. The facility is also home to a fieldhouse and batting cages, where sluggers can grab some batting practice.
This lovely new park features four multiuse fields, a fitness course, a kids’ playground and a lake with plenty more to come. When construction is complete, Desert Sky Park has the potential to incorporate 16 multi-use fields including a Championship Field with integrated shade and seating, a sensory playground, plaza areas and a trailhead.
This multifaceted park offers post-tension concrete basketball courts with sports surfacing and striping as well as reinforced rims and backboard. Another amenity includes 16 competition-ready pickleball courts; made up of 15 standard dimension courts and one allaccessible showcase court. Lighting is designed to Class II standards for tournament play and have push button controls allowing for two courts to be lit at one time. The park also houses six competition-ready lit sand volleyball courts.
Glenn Schlottman
Work: 480-503-6913 Cell: 480-417-8334 glenn.schlottman@gilbertaz.gov discovergilbert.com
THIS SPORTS MECCA, KNOWN AS THE SPORTS & ENTERTAINMENT DISTRICT, IS HOME TO THE UPCOMING 2023 SUPER BOWL, 2024 MEN’S FINAL FOUR AND ANNUAL FIESTA BOWL, WHERE CHAMPIONS ARE CROWNED
Scan to discover more of what Visit Glendale offers sports planners at SportsPlanningGuide.com
“The Visit Glendale team has been instrumental in assisting the Arizona Sports & Entertainment Commission in pursuing our mission to bring sporting events to the state, assist in promoting existing events, and support youth and amateur sports programs. Most notably, the guidance and support we received on the hotel block selection and implementation plan for the Section 7 Basketball Team Camp were second-tonone; we could not have done our job without them.”
— Nikki Balich, Executive Director, The Arizona Sports & Entertainment Commission
With 16 hotels and growing Glendale offers nearly 1,900 room nights including on-trend, boutique-style properties. Glendale is located 20 minutes from Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport and offers nonstop service to more than 117 domestic cities and 23 international destinations.
The “District of Fun” is a premier entertainment destination for live events, business, concerts, sporting events, celebrations, and a $6 million Bellagio-inspired dancing water feature.
Delivering a world-class experience for fans, event organizers and participants. The stadium offers an innovative approach to sports facility design by incorporating the first retractable natural grass playing field in North America. It is also the first completely retractable roof to operate at an incline. The stadium’s exterior skin of shimmering metal panels reflects the shifting desert light.
Camelback Ranch - Glendale Spring training, sporting events
Home of the Los Angeles Dodgers and Chicago White Sox, this spring training facility offers 10,000 stadium-seats and 3,000 lawn seats. The 141-acre campus has 118,000 square feet of clubhouse space with four major league and eight minor league practice fields.
This state-of-the-art multipurpose facility hosts national and international charttopping recording artists and a variety of sporting events. The arena features two separate concourses on two seating levels, providing guests with non-restricted views of the action. The arena features an intimate seating bowl with modern amenities and anchors Westgate Entertainment District.
Sarah Cunningham National Sales Manager 623-930-2957
scunningham@VisitGlendale.com www.VisitGlendale.com
DISCOVER ARIZONA’S PLAYGROUND AND HAVE THE TIME OF
Scan to discover more of what Go Lake Havasu offers sports planners at SportsPlanningGuide.com
Lake Havasu City is perfectly centered within easy driving from Southern California, Las Vegas and Phoenix to make it the ideal host for regional tournaments.
With more than 300 days of sunshine a year and a unique mix of tranquil waters, rugged mountains and a slew of fun, it’s difficult to stay inside when you are in Lake Havasu City. This is the perfect place for hikers, bikers, boating enthusiasts, anglers, golfers, shoppers and lovers of fine food. Book your vacation escape to Lake Havasu City and Play Like You Mean It®.
▶
Lake Havasu City is located on the beautiful Colorado River. From fun and adventure on the channel near the London Bridge to the quiet inlets like Teal Cove, the lake is spacious enough for everyone who wants to spend time on the water.
Set amid the scenic Lake Havasu City desert backdrop, this USA BMX-sanctioned nonprofit race track is a perfect place for bikers to strut their stuff. Feel the excitement of BMX racing as riders whip around the track and fly through the air to conquer jumps along the way. This non-motorized sport connects with all ages and has an open enrollment encouraging riders, young and old, to join in on the fun or watch from the stands.
One of the top five largest skateparks in the U.S. and the largest multi-use skatepark in the Southwest at 40,000 square feet, Tinnell is dedicated to local fallen soldier and BMX rider Patrick Tinnell, along with Colin Sasseen, who lost his life skating in his front yard. This multiuse skatepark is a Street League Skateboarding-
certified facility and is also open to BMX and scooters. Its street course design is inspired by Street League Skateboarding’s skate plaza-style course skated by professional skateboarders at the 2013 X Games in Brazil.
Cypress has beautiful lake views and plenty of space to enjoy soccer, baseball, playtime or just lying on the sprawling grass and taking in the sun and sights. This soccer tournamentfriendly park hosts the only regulation 73-yardwide soccer field in the city and other varioussized soccer fields as well.
Jackie Leatherman, Director of Experiences
o. 928-453-3444 x 132 c. 928-486-2665 jackie@golakehavasu.com www.golakehavasu.com
Scan to discover more of what Visit Mesa offers sports planners at SportsPlanningGuide.com
“Arizona Disabled Sports values its long-standing relationship with Visit Mesa and its support of initiatives that enhance the quality of life for individuals with intellectual, physical, or visual impairments. We look forward to opportunities to bring national adaptive sports competitions to Mesa.”
— Rhonda Carlson, Executive Director, Arizona Disabled Sports
Mesa, Arizona is sports central in the Southwest. Home to Chicago Cubs and Oakland A’s spring training baseball, the city has some of the state’s most in-demand sports facilities with even more under construction. The newest venue to call Mesa home is Bell Bank Park, powered by Legacy Sports USA – the largest complex of its kind in the country. Not to be missed is Mesa’s aquatic centers, boasting fast pools where legends come to compete.
▶ Enjoy Route 88’s scenic desert wilderness, history and folklore from the Superstition Mountains and its Lost Dutchman Mine, Goldfield Ghost Town and more.
Bell Bank Park powered by Legacy Sports Soccer, E-gaming
Bell Bank Park powered by Legacy Sports is a $300M, 320-acre multi-use family sport and entertainment complex of outdoor and indoor team athletic facilities. The park features 25 turfed flat fields, a 5,000-person stadium field, 41 pickle ball courts, 20 basketball courts, 22 futsal courts, 57 indoor volleyball courts, 12 sand volleyball courts, 8 softball/baseball diamonds, 5 golf simulators, state-of-the-art training and wellness centers, nutrition professionals and a wide selection of dining options. Legacy Sports Park will also feature a 40,000 sq foot multi-purpose arena, an indoor gaming/arcade center and an outdoor amphitheater.
Located in northeast Mesa, Red Mountain
features six professionally-groomed soccer fields. A $30 million expansion of the complex, to be completed in 2024, will add 10 new regulationsize fields, four of which will be for youth baseball/softball, expanded parking and more.
Gene Autry Sports Complex features a total of three professionally-groomed baseball fields (full-size 90-foot bases), batting tunnels and an eight-pack covered pitching station. There is a 47-acre park area nearby that includes playground equipment, four lighted sand volleyball courts, a tennis center and ramadas.
Lance Fite, Director, Sports Sales 480-682-3650
Lance@VisitMesa.com www.visitmesa.com/sports-planner/
Scan to discover more of what
Visit Phoenix offers sports planners at SportsPlanningGuide.com
“Running events annually in Downtown Phoenix since 2009 has given us a chance to really appreciate the diversity of experiences and wide array of resources available to help make our events enjoyable and keep our guests coming back year after year.”
— Bryan Kelley, President, Festival Sports
Whether you’re up for hiking to stunning mountain views, strolling among the Desert Botanical Garden’s collection of 50,000 desert plants or hunting down murals in the arts district, there are endless sights to take in between games in Phoenix. As the urban heart of the Southwest, this city is also home to innovative restaurant concepts and lively nightlife.
The Heard Museum celebrates cultures and art of American Indians of the Southwest.
Immerse yourself at the Desert Botanical Garden, a 50-acre desert garden in Papago Park showcasing an incredible variety of flora, from towering saguaros to delicate blooms.
Reach 11 is an ideal complex for all athletes to play, regardless of skill level. This massive venue features 18 lighted soccer fields (17 grass and one artificial turf playing surface). The facility also boasts two traditional grass baseball fields and two accessible rubberized baseball fields, which are perfect for athletes comfortable playing in any environment.
This lighted complex, perfect for late night competition of any kind, features four soccer fields, six softball fields, four basketball courts, four volleyball courts (two asphalt and two sand). It is also home to eight tennis courts, three pickleball courts, and eight racquetball courts.
Bell Bank Park
Baseball, softball, basketball, soccer, football, lacrosse, volleyball, pickleball, futsal, eSports
This Mesa complex is the newest sports venue to open in Greater Phoenix, offering 320 acres for youth, adult, and amateur sports teams, as well as concerts and festivals. Whatever the sport, Bell Bank Park has almost 300 courts, fields and play surfaces ready, including baseball, basketball, soccer, football and even pickleball, futsal and eSports.
Chris Robertson 602-452-6221 crobertson@visitphoenix.com visitphoenix.com
Scan to discover more of what Experience Scottsdale offers sports planners at SportsPlanningGuide.com
“Experience Scottsdale is innovative and progressive. They recognize the value events bring to their community and their support for event producers is second to none. Their lodging options and facilities are some of the best in the country and everything is first class.”
— Baseball Event Organizer & Experience
Scottsdale Sports FAM Attendee Fort Collins, CO Scottsdale Stadium
Located in Maricopa County, Scottsdale, Arizona, has been called “The West’s Most Western Town.” Scottsdale is set in the heart of the Sonoran Desert, and its McDowell Sonoran Preserve is the largest urban preserve of its kind in the United States. Scottsdale also is home to the McDowell Mountains and in close proximity to the Tonto National Forest and the Salt River.
▶
Topgolf is a top-notch experience in Scottsdale, offering visitors the chance to play golf games in a relaxing, air-conditioned environment. Reserve a bay to play, eat, drink and have some fun.
These sports complexes contain bermuda grass fields which are all professionally groomed and regularly maintained. The Scottsdale Sports Complex features six international-sized fields (225’ x 360’, four lighted) and four regulation-sized fields (186’ x 300’, unlighted). The Bell Road Sports Complex, which opens in Spring of 2022, features six additional international-sized fields (225’ x 360’, five lighted).
With a large variety of entertainment and dining options, WestWorld is a great venue for hosting events of many kinds. The grounds cover 386 acres in close proximity to the McDowell Mountains and offer 300,000 square
feet of exhibit space. WestWorld is well known for its equestrian center, which has hosted hundreds of events over the years.
Baseball, events, festivals, trade shows
Built in 1955 and located in Old Town, Scottsdale Stadium is home to the San Francisco Giants during Cactus League Spring Training and hosts a wide variety of events year-round. The main Stadium capacity is 12,000 people, and the facility also is equipped to host weddings, conferences and family gatherings.
Erika Pumphrey 480-949-6297
epumphrey@experiencescottsdale.com www.meetinscottsdale.com
When it comes to top-notch facilities for sporting events of all kinds, Scottsdale’s definitely got game.
I n Scottsdale, we back up our out-standing sports facilities with year-round sunny skies, hotels and resorts in all price points, exciting off-the-field recreation options, great dining and nightlife, and a lush Sonoran Desert setting. Here are just a few of Scottsdale’s facilities that offer flexibility, comfort and top-notch amenities for tournaments, games, league play and practices.
• Tony Nelssen Equestrian Center (TNEC): 300,000 sq. ft. consisting of a central equidome flanked by two multi-purpose halls (117,000-sq.-ft. North Hall and 37,000-sq.-ft. South Hall). Seating capacity 3,400. Fully climate controlled. The TNEC’s flexible design and barrier-free, continuous space allows multiple events to take place simultaneously.
• The Fields: A 20-acre grass field split into two areas ideal for polo and other flat-field sports.
• Equestrian Arenas: 10 total with access to horse stalls.
Monterra: 17,000-sq.-ft. indoor/outdoor event facility.
• Full-size Stadium Field (lighted) with grandstand, bleacher and berm seating for 11,000
• Full-size Practice Field (unlighted)
• The Lodge multi-level outdoor event space for groups of all sizes
• The Fieldhouse , a 10,000-square-foot, s tate-of-the-art space with pre-function a rea and patio
• The Banyan Room, a 3,000-square-foot room with patio
• The Press Level, a versatile space for 20 to 120 people
SALT RIVER FIELDS AT
• Full-size Stadium Field (lighted) with stadium and berm seating for 12,000
•12 Practice Fields
•Numerous indoor/outdoor Multi-Use Spaces
(pictured)
• 6 International-size Fields (225’ x 360’; 6 lighted)
• 4 Regulation-size Fields (186’ x 300’; unlighted)
• 6 International-size Fields (225’ x 360’; 6 lighted)
For more information, please contact Erika Pumphrey, Senior National Sales Manager for Experience Scottsdale, at 480-949-6297 or epumphrey@experiencescottsdale.com
experiencescottsdale.com
Scan to discover more of what Explore Surprise, Arizona offers sports planners at SportsPlanningGuide.com
Located at the northwestern corner of the Valley of the Sun in Maricopa County, Surprise is one of the fastest-growing cities in the United States, and for good reason with its outstanding sports scene, restaurants, hotels and local activities. Route US 60 passes directly through the city, making travel by car a breeze. There’s also an international airport located in Phoenix, which is only about 40 minutes away.
▶
White Tank Mountain Regional Park has hiking trails, camping, picnic areas and a nature center to enjoy the great outdoors. This well-maintained park has a playground along Mesquite Canyon Trail, which also provides a fair challenge for trail runners.
Surprise Stadium is a 10,500-seat baseball facility with grass surface and professional dimensions across 124 acres. Not only is this a top-notch stadium to host a major event, it’s the home to MLB Spring Training for the Kansas City Royals and Texas Rangers. Additionally, Surprise Stadium is home to Arizona Fall League’s Surprise Saguaros team, and was voted best Spring Training Facility in the Cactus League by USA Today. Located at the Surprise Recreation Campus, there are also 12 baseball fields, half of which are lighted, making it a great location to host major tournaments at any level.
Opened in 2007, Surprise Tennis & Racquet Complex is a USTA Outstanding Facility awardwinning facility. With 25 tennis courts, 17 of which are lighted, and a 2,500-seat stadium, the complex
excels with the quality and quantity to host major tournaments such as the pro CTCA Champions Series and the Fed Cup. In addition to the tennis courts, there are two full-sized indoor racquetball courts, as well as a room dedicated to table tennis.
Adjacent to the tennis and racquet complex is Surprise Pickleball Complex. Unlike many other pickleball facilities, membership and daily fees are not required to play here, making it an excellent spot to learn the game. This state-of-the-art facility hosts 16 outdoor pickleball courts, all of which are lighted and available from 6 AM to 10 PM.
Joe Bertoletti
joe.bertoletti@surpriseaz.gov ExploreSurprise.com / SurpriseStadium.com
Find your fun at Spring Training in Surprise and keep it going as you hike the beautiful Sonoran desert mountains, play one of our pristine golf courses, and enjoy the local dining flavors.
With blogs, itineraries, events and more, we’ll help you “Find Your Surprise” at ExploreSurprise.com
With breathtaking landscapes and a vibrant college town, Tempe is on the rise as one of the hottest destinations in the country. From outdoor attractions and sightseeing ventures to excellent retail and dining opportunities, this metropolitan area is ideal for a week-long getaway.
▶
Countless culinary choices cover a wide array of cuisines, from quick eats to fine dining.
▶ Tempe also has great shopping including the fabulous Tempe Marketplace, which features a sprawling 1.3 million square feet of retail space, 100 shops and restaurants and more than 300 events happening year-round.
Tempe Sports Complex
Multi-use, softball, soccer, pickleball, flag football, skating
Built in 2005, Tempe Sports Complex is a 60-acre multi-purpose facility for sports tournaments and recreational activities. The complex includes seven multi-use fields, four lighted softball fields, 8 lighted pickleball courts – including two of the first ADA-accessible courts in the state. The skate park features two bowls and multiple street style ramps, open to skaters of all experience levels.
Sun Devil Fitness
Multi-use, basketball, volleyball, racquetball, conference meeting space
The Sun Devil Fitness Complex is a 234,000 sq. ft. multi-purpose space that can host both indoor and outdoor events. The complex has five large gymnasiums, 11 racquetball courts, an Olympic size swimming pool, and 6.5 acres of outdoor field space. The facility is designed
Scan to discover more of what Tempe Tourism Office offers sports planners at SportsPlanningGuide.com
“Tempe is a vibrant urban destination for tournaments just minutes from PHX Sky Harbor airport. By hosting high-level competitions like IRONMAN® triathlons and Cactus League Spring Training our convenient location and sunny skies create a winning game plan.”
— Judy Stowers, Race Director IRONMAN Arizona
to be a center of recreational and intramural sports, and overall physical wellness.
Boating, kayaking, triathlon, running, beach volleyball,
Located in the heart of the Phoenix Metropolitan area, Tempe Town Lake provides a 2-mile recreational lake for both recreational and competition style activities such as kayaking, sailing, dragon boat racing, and triathlons.
Tempe Beach Park has 25 acres of park space to accommodate beach volleyball, running events, music festivals and special events.
Luchie Javelosa 480-894-8158
luchie@tempetourism.com www.tempetourism.com
Go beyond the game.
No matter the score, everybody wins in Tempe. Centrally located, just minutes from Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport, Tempe is the perfect place to field your next sporting event.
Contact us to help make your event a success.
Our facilities, hotels, and post-game scene are unbeatable. You’ll experience all-star attractions, shopping, dining, and nightlife in an inclusive community that champions diversity.
From breathtaking Sonoran Desert views to the bustling and vibrant downtown area, Tucson gives travelers the best of both worlds. Resort hotels, spas and trendy restaurants are perfect for the urban explorer while the Sonoran Desert, Saguaro National Park and Catalina State Park allow for endless hikes.
▶
The Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum is dedicated to educating the public and conserving the Sonoran Desert Region. The 98-acre museum is made up of a zoo, aquarium, art gallery, botanical garden and more.
▶
Scan to discover more of what
Visit Tucson Sports offers sports planners at SportsPlanningGuide.com
“We are currently working on bringing two events to Tucson and Visit Tucson Sports has been a pleasure to work with. Their sports director, Luchie Javelosa, has done a wonderful job in educating us on the city, sports venues and hotels. We are looking forward to a long-term partnership with Visit Tucson Sports.”
SDLT, Compete Sports Diversity, CEO
The Pima Air and Space Museum holds around 400 historic aircraft and thousands of artifacts.
This multi-purpose sports venue provides facilities for both professional and amateur level sports, as well as cultural events. As the largest entertainment venue in Southern Arizona, the complex is equipped to host tournaments, concerts, fundraisers, training sessions and more. Being split into three main subsections allows the facilities to cater to far more than just baseball, which was its primary purpose when opening in 1997. The North Complex is composed of playgrounds, an event center, softball fields, and a basketball court while the South Complex includes accommodations for rugby, football, soccer, lacrosse, and field hockey.
Located in the heart of downtown Tucson, the Tucson Convention Center is comprised of
205,000 square feet of event space. Ballrooms, pre-function spaces, and exhibit halls are just some of the aspects available to make any event a success.
The Sporting Chance Center is home to tournaments, leagues, camps, clinics, open play and other programs devoted to youth health and fitness. The 40,000 square foot air-conditioned center features a state-of-the-art floating wood floor that can be configured with up to eight volleyball courts or five full basketball courts.
Nick Pazzi 520-770-2157
npazzi@visittucson.org www.visittucson.org/sports
Scan to discover more of what Visit Yuma offers sports planners at SportsPlanningGuide.com
“Yuma is a community that is excited about sport, tournaments, and recreation. We are proud of our beautiful new Pacific Avenue Athletic Complex that hosted the NJCAA DI Women’s Softball Championships in 2021 and 2022. It seems like every weekend Yuma parks are full of activity and tournaments.”
— Marcus Carney, Executive DirectorThe true Southwest awaits you in Yuma. Come immerse yourself in the city’s rich culture and heritage, which is rooted in centuries of history. Soak in Yuma’s blue skies and sun that shines 310 days a year — perfect for outdoor excursions. And with a variety of top-notch athletic facilities and a vibrant arts and culture scene, Yuma is an ideal spot to host your next event.
▶ Explore the city’s vibrant arts and culture scene, or hit up unique shopping and dining options in Yuma’s Historic Downtown.
▶
Don’t miss Yuma’s historical sites that are living legends, and take time to learn about how the native peoples came together at The Crossing
The Pacific Avenue Athletic Complex is a state-of-the-art facility that is uniquely positioned to help your tournament get in front of a tremendously viable demographic. This sprawling 50-acre, multi-sport facility is perfect for Youth or Adult Softball & Baseball Leagues & Tournaments. The PAAC offers 6 lighted softball fields which includes a Championship Field.
The Desert Hills Golf Course is the premier golfing facility in southwestern Arizona and southeastern California. The course is a par 72 championship course that features 6,800 yards of challenging topography and scenic views with an interesting mix of vegetation. The course is maintained at a top-notch level and has been the site of several professional
events including the Ben Hogan and Nike Tour Events. Rolling hills, palm trees, gorgeous valley views and big greens make it a favorite in the local area.
The City of Yuma Ray Kroc Sports Complex is a 26-acre, modern, multi-use sports and recreation center comprised of three components: Ray Kroc Sports Complex, Desert Sun Stadium, and the Clubhouse Building.
Leslie McClendon 928-318-6539
Leslie@VisitYuma.com www.visityuma.com
