We all know that the fun and games don’t stop after the last ball has been hit at the ballpark. We’ve rounded up a list of the best Arizona hot spots around each Spring Training facility for you to enjoy post baseball food and drinks.
Camelback Ranch Stadium: Glendale – Chicago White Sox, Los Angeles Dodgers
An entire entertainment district waits at Westgate. Lying next to the University of Phoenix Stadium, which is home to the Arizona Cardinals, and the Gila River Arena, which is home to the Phoenix Coyotes, there are a slew of dining and entertainment choices. Housing twenty-one restaurants, this outdoor district is sure to please everyone in your group. Try Crave, the brand new waffle sandwich creation shop for something different, or Fractured Prune to create your own custom doughnut. For some Irish food try Mcfadden’s, and for an endless choice of beers, choose Yardhouse. There’s also a Buffalo Wild Wings, Johnny Rockets, and even more. Westgate also has a variety of shops and a movie theatre.
Goodyear Ballpark: Goodyear – Cincinnati Reds, Cleveland Indians
If you want to keep watching more games after yours is over, head over to Majerle’s Sports Grill for a tasty selection of sandwiches, pizzas, burgers, and appetizers. Many items on the menu are named after Phoenix Suns players and some items have even been featured on The Food Network. Innovative cocktails and nightly specials make this an Arizona spot you can’t miss.
Hohokam Stadium: Mesa – Oakland Athletics
About five minutes away is a small place serving up New Mexican food. The Blue Adobe Grill is a small A-frame building with a blue roof whose specialty is Sante Fe cuisine. Try some stacked enchiladas or chile rellenos all with the delicious spice of New Mexican hatch green chile. Also nearby is Mesa Riverview, an outdoor destination filled with many chain restaurants, shops, and entertainment.
Maryvale Stadium: Phoenix – Milwaukee Brewers
Since most dining options close to the stadium are fast food chains you might want to take a little drive to more variety. Southeast of the stadium is bustling downtown Phoenix which comes alive at nighttime. Find your way to CityScape, two blocks full of dining, shopping, entertainment, and urban vibes. Right next to US Airways Center, Chase Field, and the Phoenix Convention Center, there’s plenty to do and see downtown. Concerts, museums, and shows are constantly happening and this is the perfect place to experience Phoenix. Copper Blues offers up live music and over 50 beers on tap. Lustre Rooftop Garden is a trendy bar that boasts city views. For an always happening Phoenix favorite, try the Arrogant Butcher, or drink while you bowl over at Lucky Strike. Choices are endless in this downtown hub.
Peoria Sports Complex: Peoria – San Diego Padres, Seattle Mariners
Just west of the complex along 83rd Avenue lay a string of restaurants. Hit up some traditional sports spots like Hooters and Tilted Kilt, or grab a steak at Texas Roadhouse or Osaka. For some barbeque try Famous Dave’s, or for some family style Italian food, head over to Buca Di Beppo. P.F. Chang’s, Elephant Bar, and Red Robin also join the group.
Salt River Fields at Talking Stick: Scottsdale – Arizona Diamondbacks, Colorado Rockies
Just across the freeway from the Salt River Fields, is Talking Stick Resort & Casino. The resort hosts a variety of choices for fine dining, casual dining, buffet style, and even areas available for private dining or events. There are also multiple lounges, each with a different atmosphere. Concerts and events are often happening in one of their three venues, and the casino is always alive as well. Try your swing over at Top Golf and enjoy many different food and drink options while you do. Talking Stick Resort has everything you need in one spot for before and after the game. Not feeling a casino? Drop into the staple Ventura Grill just off of Via de Ventura and the Loop 101.
Scottsdale Stadium: Old Town Scottsdale – San Francisco Giants
Old Town Scottsdale is filled with an endless variety of restaurants, bars, shops, and clubs. Scottsdale Stadium sits in the backyard of it all, and access is footsteps away. For a hyperactive atmosphere visit the infamous RnR or for a copious amount of beers and TV’s, visit Cold Beers & Cheeseburgers just up the street. Before the game, try the always-popular Breakfast Club, or cross the street to Montauk, a brand new luxury restaurant and lounge. For an upscale meal, try Bandera, or The Mission, serving Latin cuisine. Everything is walking distance and there’s hidden gems around every corner. Take a walk up Scottsdale Road to discover it all.
Sloan Park: Mesa – Chicago Cubs
March is the perfect time of year to visit Tempe Marketplace. Just on the other side of the freeway, this outdoor mall is walking distance from the stadium. Close to Arizona State University, Tempe Marketplace is always alive and exciting. As an outdoor mall, spring makes the perfect time of year to visit and explore. Enjoy one of many beers at the Thirsty Lion Pub & Grill, cut into a juicy steak at The Keg, or sip some sake at Kabuki. The dining choices are varied and sprinkled throughout an array of shops, there’s plenty to enjoy here.
Surprise Stadium: Surprise – Kansas City Royals, Texas Rangers
Travel up to Bell Road to find multiple chain restaurants. Also along the road is a small, locally owned French inspired bistro, Amuse Bouche. A unique spot near the stadium offering up salads and sandwiches, the bistro has an intimate setting and friendly atmosphere. For a less intimate experience visit the Irish Wolfhound Restaurant & Pub. With traditional Irish selections, and a casual environment, this pub makes for the perfect spot on game day.
Tempe Diablo Stadium: Tempe – The Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim
Closest to the stadium is the Phoenix Marriott Tempe at the Buttes. Set amidst the beautiful desert landscape, the hotel holds one of the finest restaurants in Tempe. Top of the Rock is a contemporary American restaurant with some amazing views of the city below. Travel a little further east, and try a fantastic neighborhood bar. Locally owned, Boulder’s on Broadway boasts great food, 30 draft handles, and 70+ bottles of craft beers.
-Suzanne Koch
