Discover how Tempe’s dynamic venues and welcoming spirit make it the perfect destination for athletes and fans alike
Sports and inclusivity converge in a limitless playground in this picturesque city www.SportsPlanningGuide.com
n behalf of our unrivaled Arizona tourism industry, we’re excited to be in consideration to host your next sports event.
Our expertise in hosting combines with our world-famous hospitality to help make it as easy as possible to choose Arizona. After experiencing our envious year-round weather, spectacular resorts and countless restaurants, activities and attractions, we’re confident you’ll be glad you did!
From the wonders of Tribal cultural experiences to the culinary mastery of Southern Arizona to the pine trees and winter snow of Northern Arizona –and so much more in between – we can’t wait to share it all with your guests!
Best of all, 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.
Journey through Tribal Lands to connect to the cultural history of what is now Arizona. Visit communities, who have lived in reciprocity with canyonlands and river valleys since time immemorial and who still thrive today. Hire a Native American guide to experience these spectacular places, such as the Navajo Nation in northeastern Arizona.
Food is central to how we share time together, welcome travelers and even celebrate accomplishments and holidays. When it comes to Mexican food, Tucson in Southern Arizona proudly claims the title of “America’s Best.” From sizzling street food to family-owned gems hidden in colorful barrios, Tucson’s food scene is a melting pot of passion and heritage that celebrates the entire delicious spectrum of Mexican cuisine.
And yes there’s even lush pine tree forests, spectacular outdoor recreation opportunities and even fluffy snow during the colder months in Arizona, as a quick visit to the Colorado Plateau and the San Francisco Peaks that frame Flagstaff will reveal.
Wherever your events across our beautiful state may take you, we welcome you to explore Arizona and hope you’re exhilarated by what you discover. Enjoy!
Lisa Urias Visit Arizona
Nestled near the Tonto National Forest and surrounded by picturesque bodies of water, Mesa, Arizona, is the ideal destination for sporting events and activities. As the 37th largest city in the United States, Mesa offers an inclusive environment for people of all abilities to stay and play. The East Valley has a proud history of hosting numerous sporting events that scale from youth to professional and everything in between.
Branded as “City Limitless” and nationally recognized for their designation on becoming the first Autism Certified City, Mesa’s work towards inclusivity and accessibility provides limitless growth and limitless sports potential for residents and visitors.
For decades, Mesa City Park facilities like Gene Autry Baseball Complex, Red Mountain Soccer Complex and Hohokam Stadium (Spring Training home of the Oakland
A’s) have been household names and sought-after venues for organizations hosting various events. Mesa’s world-class family sports complex, Arizona Athletic Grounds, boasts an impressive number of courts, fields, diamonds, and indoor space (19 basketball courts, 57 volleyball courts, 24 turfed fields, 8 diamonds, 12 sand volleyball courts, 22 futsal courts, a 2,500-capacity stadium and 41 pickleball courts to be exact) putting Mesa on the radar for new major market sports clients from around the nation. Mesa refused to be a “one trick pony”.
The City of Mesa and Mesa Parks and Recreation continued to find value in building community facilities that also serve to host large scale tournaments by expanding Red Mountain Soccer Complex to be comprised of a staggering 16 flat
natural grass fields (6 fields prior to expansion), expanding Red Mountain Softball Complex to showcase 4 additional softball diamonds (now 8 total) and the brand new facility at Monterey Park adding 4 additional softball/youth diamonds and 4 pickleball courts.
Mesa’s extraordinary sport venues continue to give athletes, fans, and families more to look forward to in the world of athletics. 2023 ushered the opening of Lehi Sports Park (5 lighted flat fields, streaming capabilities, vendor hook ups, bathrooms and gated parking), Gene Autry Tennis Center’s expansion (16 lighted tennis courts, 13 pickleball courts and 4 sand volleyball courts).
Building on the momentum of a booming downtown district packed full of local restaurants, coffee shops, boutiques, and a legit pub crawl scene, Mesa has found the perfect balance of becoming a rejuvenated trendythrowback with big league accommodations.
For your sports planning needs please reach out to Lance Fite, Vice President of Sports via email: lance@visitmesa.com
• Lehi Sports Park – 5 flat field multi-use sports facility (new 2023)
• Red Mountain Soccer Complex – 16 flat grass fields
• Red Mountain Baseball Complex – 3 full-size baseball diamonds, 8 youth baseball/softball fields
• Gene Autry Baseball Complex – 3 full-size baseball diamonds
• Monterrey Park – 4 full-size softball diamonds, 4 pickleball courts
• Gene Autry Tennis and Pickleball Complex- 16 lighted tennis courts, 13 lighted pickleball courts and 4 sand volleyball courts
• Riverview Baseball Fields (at Sloan Park) – 4 full-size grass baseball fields
• Eastmark Sports Complex – 4 full-size baseball fields
• Skyline Softball Complex - 4 full-size softball fields
• Quail Run Baseball Complex - 4 youth baseball fields
• Sloan Park – Spring Training home stadium for the Chicago Cubs
• Hohokam Stadium – Spring Training home stadium for the Oakland A’s
• Legacy Sports Park – 19 basketball courts- 24 turfed flat fields- 5 grass fields- 2,500-person stadium field- 41 pickleball courts- 12 sand volleyball courts- 57 volleyball courts- 22 futsal courts- 40,000 sq ft conference space, indoor golf simulators, 600-person sports bar, 85 game arcade, 15,000 sq ft strength and conditioning facility, 8 baseball/softball fields, obstacle course, gymnastics/ cheer/dance studio.
• Kino Aquatics Center – 75-meter Olympic size swimming pool with moveable bulkhead
• Skyline Aquatics Center – 75-meter Olympic size swimming pool with moveable bulkhead
• Horseshoe Park and Equestrian Center – 2 fully covered arenas with nearly 3400 seats, 2 additional uncovered arenas with 250 additional seats.
• Las Sendas Golf Course, Mesa Country Club, Dobson Ranch Golf Course, Longbow Golf Club, Augusta Ranch Golf Club and many more.
From high-stakes competitions to vibrant community events, discover how Tempe’s dynamic venues and welcoming spirit make it the perfect destination for athletes and fans alike
TTempe is a vibrant, urban destination, located in the heart of the Phoenix metropolitan area, and just minutes from Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport.
By hosting high-level competition — from IRONMAN to Cactus League Spring Training — our convenient location and sunny skies create a winning game plan for your next tournament. We’re geared up to select the perfect venues, work with city services and find accommodations for your next sporting event.
With breathtaking desert landscapes and an everevolving urban skyline, 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, Tempe is ideal for all types of visiting athletes.
Home to a diverse portfolio of events, ranging from youth amateur competitions and professional sports to concerts and festivals, Tempe is an active community that celebrates
hosting opportunities to gather, connect and compete. Notable events and groups that have selected Tempe as their host city include, the National Veterans Wheelchair Games, National Gay Flag Football, Dive into Diversity, Legends Masters Championships, and Team USA Paradragons.
The City of Tempe and Tempe Tourism’s commitment to growth and inclusivity aims to welcome all. We celebrate authenticity and uniqueness and believe in the power of providing spaces and opportunities for all communities.
Throughout the year, Tempe invites visitors to experience the spirit of the city off the court. The roster of things to do include:
Boat, kayak or stand up paddleboarding at Tempe Town Lake; attend an outdoor festival or event, including Oktoberfest and Innings Festival; the Sonoran Desert invites you to hike and bike the many paths and trails in and around town and pay a visit to the Desert Botanical Garden.
Catch an ASU Sun Devils game, match or meet (football, basketball, volleyball, tennis, swimming, etc.); get up-close and personal to Major League Baseball at a Cactus League Spring Training game at Tempe Diablo Stadium; or check out the NBA G League’s Valley Suns at Mullett Arena.
Experience a live performance at ASU Gammage or Tempe Center for the Arts; take in various works at the Tempe Festival of the Arts (spring and fall), one of the longest-running juried arts festivals in the state. In addition, a roster of stages — from concert venues and nightclubs to comedy spots and even a piano bar will keep you entertained. This city is buzzing after sunset, making it a popular destination for team outings, reunions and entertainment for a wide variety of groups.
Tempe is known for its craft breweries and globally inspired dining scene. From award-winning brews and globally inspired fare to innovative Southwestern cuisine, the culinary landscape is as diverse as those who call this city home.
In Tempe, retail therapy includes two major shopping hubs: Tempe Marketplace, an open-air experience known for great shopping at local and internationally known retailers and live music on Friday and Saturday evenings. Arizona Mills features a mile of outlets, shops and entertainment venues, including SEA LIFE Arizona Aquarium, LEGOLAND® Discovery Center Arizona and Arizona’s only 70mm IMAX screen.
To plan your next sporting event or tournament, please contact Luchie Javelosa, Senior Sports Sales Manager, at luchie@tempetourism.com.
• Tempe is 42 square miles
• Population of 185,000+ and a median age of 28 years old
• Home to Arizona State University, one of the largest public universities in the United States
• 4 miles f rom Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) and is the most walkable and bikeable city in the Valley
• 17,000+ businesses are in Tempe
• 330 days of sunshine with an average temperature of 87.3 degrees
• 100 percent score on the Human Rights Campaign Annual Municipal Equality Index since 2014
Tempe Sports Complex: 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 ADAaccessible courts in the state. The skate park features two bowls and multiple street style ramps, open to skaters of all experience levels.
Kiwanis Tennis Center: Home to 15 championship-level courts, each equipped with PlaySight video streaming technology.
Mullett Arena: Open since 2022, this 5,000-seat multipurpose arena is home to the NBA G League’s Valley Suns, ASU Sun Devil Hockey, ASU Women’s Volleyball and ASU Men’s Wrestling.
Sun Devil Fitness Complex: This 234,000 square-foot, multi-purpose space can host both indoor and outdoor events. With five large gymnasiums, an Olympic size swimming pool and 6.5 acres of outdoor field space, this facility is designed to be a center of recreational and intramural sports, and overall physical wellness.
Tempe Diablo Stadium: Spring Training home to the Los Angeles Angels, this facility can accommodate a variety of events across five lighted soccer fields, two lighted softball fields, two lighted baseball practice fields and one lighted stadium.
For a complete list of Tempe facilities, please check out our Tempe Sports Facility Guide.
Sierra Vista, Arizona, is a hidden treasure for sports enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers alike. Located at the foot of the stunning Huachuca Mountains, the area offers a unique blend of breathtaking scenery and year-round activities and sports facilities for tournaments and events under the Arizona sun.
For an outdoors experience like no other, families can enjoy hikes, beautiful foliage in the Autumn months and a variety of plant and animal life at Ramsey Canyon Preserve. Its spring-fed stream and high canyon walls create a cool environment that gives a whole new meaning to what you can find in the desert. After spending some time in the preserve, make sure to stop by the Ramsey Canyon Inn to try an incredible slice of pie. Coronado National Memorial allows visitor to immerse themselves in the knowledge of the past with eight miles of trails through grasslands, mountains and oak forests, as well as a visit to explore Coronado Cave
The nearly 57,000-acre San Pedro Riparian Natural Conservation Area is sure to impress everyone with birding, picnicking, historic sites, fishing and more.
For more climate-controlled leisure, The Cove Aquatic Center offers an indoor aquatic facility with two enclosed tube slides, water pool with jets, sunning decks, diving pool and eight 25-yard lap lanes for competition or exercise. Amenities include locker rooms and concessions.
With tournament-ready turf and highefficiency LED lights, Domingo Paiz Sports Complex is perfect for soccer and softball tournaments. The soccer fields can be set up as two fields at 100 x 60 yards or as four fields at 60 x 45 yard. The two softball fields are 301 feet each. All fields at the complex are for youth and adults alike. It is primely located next to other sports complexes in the area that are dedicated to baseball and pickleball, including Stone Sports Complex and Patrick Arbenz Field.
Named after Keith Hampton, who was a prominent veteran and coach of the community, this field is home to local youth football organizations and open to the public every morning. The field has everything for football games and track and field tournaments alike, including an RGB color-changing light system. Other amenities include concession stands, bathrooms and bleachers with the capacity to seat 1,600 people.
“The relationship between our local leagues and the city has become extremely reciprocal with the leagues communicating their needs to hold tournaments and with the city communicating to the leagues about how they support. The city has been proactive with updating our local facilities.”
— Berlynda Shaaf, AZ Little League District 8 Treasurer and Community Volunteer
CITY OF SIERRA VISTA
John Healy (520) 515-4999
sports@sierravistaaz.gov www.sierravistaaz.gov/ourcity/departments/sports
Cyr Field is located on the west side of Sierra Vista and is solely for soccer use. The west field is an NCAA full-size field at 110 x 70 yards and the center and east fields are both 105 x 70 yards. The center and east fields can also turn into four fields at 70 x 45 yards. Amenities at this facility include bathrooms, playgrounds located on both sides of the fields, two ramadas and a variety of walking paths.
There’s so much to see and experience in Winslow, Arizona, with natural beauty being a cornerstone of sports and leisure. When it comes to sports and staying active, McHood Park and Clear Creak Reservoir have everything from kayaking through a deep rock waterway to hiking and rock climbing. For more outdoor adventure, Homolovi State Park has guided tours, including learning about petroglyphs and the ancestral Hopi village at this spiritually living site, along with events like stargazing.
Enjoy a stay at the historic La Posada hotel, gardens, gallery and museum, where many famous individuals like Albert Einstein, Amelia Earhart and Franklin D. Roosevelt were guests. La Posada embodies the visions of both Mary Elizabeth Jane Colter, the hotel’s renowned architect, and Allan Affeldt, its current owner who restored the famous protected site into its current state.
MCHOOD PARK
Rock Climbing, Paddleboarding, Hiking, Outdoor Sports and Rec
Enjoy a wide range of outdoor activities at McHood Park. Grab your canoe, or rent one on-site, to follow the creek along Clear Creek Canyon, a magnificent deep rock waterway. This location is one of Northern Arizona’s best kept secrets that has been enjoyed by locals for over one hundred years. Along with fishing, swimming and other water sports and leisure, enjoy a hike or bike ride. On-site picnicking and camping are also available and is first-come, first-serve. When you drive into the park there is a kiosk on your right-hand side where you can purchase a camping pass.
“Stand at the corner of history and harmony in Winslow, Arizona — where every journey is a step toward discovery, and every sunset is yet, another reminder of the natural beauty that surrounds us in Northeast Arizona.”
— Bob Hall CEO, Winslow Chamber of Commerce
WINSLOW CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Bob Hall
(928) 289-2434
bhall@winslowaz.gov www.visitwinslow.com
Prescott, Arizona, is a captivating destination that blends outdoor adventure with cultural and recreational attractions, making it an ideal spot for visitors of all ages. Nestled among the scenic landscapes of central Arizona, the 50,000-person town offers a variety of exciting experiences, from breathtaking natural parks to family-friendly indoor activities.
One of the standout attractions is Watson Lake Park, just a 13-minute drive from downtown Prescott. Surrounded by stunning granite boulders, this shimmering blue lake is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy kayaking, fishing, boating, and hiking on the park’s 380 acres. With amenities like campsites, picnic areas, and trails like the popular Peavine Trail, Watson Lake is the perfect retreat from the desert heat. Pets are also welcome, making it a family-friendly escape.
For wildlife lovers, Heritage Park Zoo offers a unique and educational experience. Located near Willow Lake, this ten-acre sanctuary is home to a variety of animals housed in large, naturally landscaped enclosures. The zoo also features interactive exhibits like the Tarantula Grotto, providing an upclose look at some of its most interesting residents.
Families looking for indoor fun can check out Get Air Trampoline Park, where kids and adults alike can jump into foam pits, play dodgeball, or test their skills on ninja obstacles. Meanwhile, rock climbing enthusiasts flock to Grip Stone Indoor Rock Climbing, which provides a full-body workout and fun for all skill levels.
PARK
Baseball, Softball, Soccer, Football, Roller Hockey, Pickleball
Pioneer Park is a versatile recreational hub offering facilities for baseball, softball, soccer, football, roller hockey, and pickleball. The expansive park features field rentals, a roller hockey rink, and dedicated pickleball courts, making it a go-to destination for sports enthusiasts. Beyond sports, Pioneer Park connects to Brownlow Trails, offering scenic paths for running and hiking. Family-friendly amenities include restrooms, picnic areas, and Kayla’s Hands Playground.
“Prescott’s recreation services and sports staff are fantastic. The staff is very organized, and the fields are exceptionally maintained. No one makes our job easier in terms of preparation and communication.”
— Rick Seifman, Softball Tournament Organizer
Michael Kelly (928) 777-1460 mike.kelly@presoctt-az.gov ExperiencePrescott.com
PARK
Baseball, Softball, Soccer, Football
One of the finest multi-use facilities in Prescott, this dynamic park provides space for baseball, softball, soccer, and football. With well-maintained fields and restrooms, it’s ideal for both casual play and organized events. A highlight is its proximity to the Heritage Park Zoo, creating an enticing blend of recreation and wildlife exploration. Children can enjoy the playground, while families can reserve fields for sports activities.
ROUGHRIDER PARK AND BILL VALLELY FIELD
Baseball, Softball
Situated next to Yavapai College, the park features spacious athletic fields, stadium seating for spectators, and convenient restroom facilities. Roughrider Park hosts both casual games and competitive events, offering a professional yet community-friendly environment. Its scenic setting, combined with top-notch amenities, makes it a popular spot for athletes and spectators alike, promoting a lively sports culture in Prescott.
The true Southwest awaits you in Yuma, Arizona. Immerse yourself in the city’s rich culture and heritage, and soak in blue skies and sun that shines 310 days a year—perfect for outdoor sports and excursions. With a variety of topnotch 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 legendary sites, such as the Colorado River State Historic Park, a former military outpost, and Yuma Territorial Prison State Historic Park, which is a must-see for ghost adventurers and history buffs.
The Colorado River State Historic Park is located on a portion of the grounds of the old U.S. Army Quartermaster Depot (QMD) established in 1864. This site is significant in the history of the Arizona Territory. The purpose of the Park is to protect its historic structures and interpret the diverse history of the site. Yuma Territorial Prison State Historic Park once held a variety of law violators, including the legendary stagecoach robber Pearl Hart. The Prison continued in operation for 33 years when, due to overcrowding, all inmates were moved to a new facility in Florence, Arizona.
Take time to learn about how the native peoples came together at The Crossing Yuma has multiple museums and historic sites dedicated to the Quechan and Cocopah people.
Softball, Baseball
Pacific Avenue Athletic Complex (PAAC) 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 and baseball leagues and tournaments. In total, PAAC offers six lighted softball fields which includes a Championship Field.
Golf
Desert Hills Golf Course is the premier golfing facility in southwestern Arizona and southeastern California. The course is a par-72 championship course featuring 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.
“Yuma’s Desert Spirit includes a passion for sport. An early morning round at one of our picturesque golf courses, kayaking on the gentle Colorado River or competing at the Pacific Avenue Athletic Complex, Yuma is home to competitive and exciting sport.”
— Marcus Carney, Executive Director
VISIT YUMA
Leslie McClendon (928) 318-6539
leslie@visityuma.com www.visityuma.com
Baseball, Soccer, Lacrosse and more
Outdoor Sports and Events
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. The complex itself has five baseball diamonds and 11 multipurpose fields. The 7,500-capacity Desert Sun Stadium has a grass field which was converted in 2015 from baseball to soccer and can host several other events like pro wrestling and concerts.
