Catlin Court: Glendale’s Own Mini Greenwich Village
Tucked away off historic Grand Avenue, Catlin Court offers a funky artistic vibe reminiscent of New York City’s Greenwich Village. This pedestrian-friendly courtyard contains a cluster of intimate shops, galleries, and eateries that showcase Glendale’s artsy side. Walk under the brightly painted archway off 58th Drive to enter a world exploding with artistic expression. Local artists sell their latest works inside colorful boutiques like whimsical gift shop For Goodness Snake and Torch Gallery, which displays an eclectic mix of art in all mediums. Hunt for vintage treasures and retro decor at Antique Sugar. After shopping, relax at one of Catlin Court’s cozy cafes. Sip on a frothy cappuccino at quirky coffee shop The Coffee Rush or indulge in a wood-fired pizza at Myke’s Pizza that’s been perfected after 60 years. For fine French cuisine in an elegant bistro setting, make reservations at Tres Leches Cafe.
Insider Tip: Catlin Court closes to traffic in the evenings on Fridays and Saturdays. Stroll from shop to shop during these special Art Walk evenings that celebrate Glendale’s creative community.
Address: 5817 W Palmaire Ave, Glendale, AZ 85301
Phone: 480-210-6200
Thunderbird Conservation Park: Escape to the Desert
Trade the bustling city streets for the tranquility of the Sonoran Desert at Thunderbird Conservation Park. Spanning 1,915 acres, this protected area contains miles of hiking trails that wind through cactus forests, past granite boulders, and alongside a lush wetland habitat. Three different loop trails range from easy .6 mile walks to moderate 1.3 mile hikes, making the park accessible to all ages. The Saguaro Loop passes by hundreds of towering saguaro cacti that are silhouetted against the mountains. Along the Yucca Loop, fragrant blooms of desert marigolds and Mexican gold poppies add vibrant color during spring. Pack a picnic to enjoy after your hike at one of the ramadas. Keep your eyes peeled for native birds and wildlife including roadrunners, quail, jackrabbits, and mule deer. Unique desert plants like prickly pears, barrel cacti, and palo verde trees provide shade. As the park closes at sunset, stick around to watch the sky transform brilliant shades of orange and fuschia. With panoramic views across Phoenix’s northern mountains, it’s easy to feel worlds away from the big city.
Insider Tip: Connect your group to nature with a private desert ecology tour led by experts at Desert Ecology Tours. Their team will drive you into remote parts of Sonoran Desert parks while sharing fascinating details about the desert ecosystem.
Address: 19201 N 15th Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85027
Phone: 480-210-6200
Glendale Arizona Historical Society Museum: Journey Into the Past
Step back in time at the Glendale Arizona Historical Society Museum, an acclaimed museum filled with intriguing artifacts, photographs, clothing, and other treasures from Glendale’s early years. Interactive exhibits and murals depicting Glendale’s history transport you to pivotal moments that shaped the city over the decades. See Native American baskets dating back before Glendale’s founding in 1892. Marvel at an original sheepherder’s wagon and a rare copper noddle mold used by early settlers. Other highlights include a circa-1920s soda fountain, vintage clothing displays, and dioramas showcasing life in the farming communities that dotted Glendale’s outskirts. Stroll through the adjacent Sahuaro Ranch to experience this well-preserved homestead where prominent early families like the Bartletts resided. Walking paths wind through original orchards, gardens, and farmland hugging the banks of the once-flowing Acequia river. Don’t miss the Territorial-style ranch house filled with period furnishings.
Insider Tip: Time your visit to attend one of the museum’s Living History events. Costumed reenactors and hands-on activities immerse you in life during different time periods. The Dia De Los Muertos, Civil War Days, and Victorian Christmas events are especially lively.
Address: 7313 N 58th Ave, Glendale, AZ 85301
Phone: 480-210-6200
Historic Downtown Glendale: Where Old Meets New
In downtown Glendale’s tree-lined brick pedestrian avenues, the city’s past meets its future. Get your bearings at the new Ironwood Square then make your way down 58th and 59th Avenues to uncover historic gems nestled amidst modern shops and dining hot spots. At the corner of 58th and Glendale Avenues rises the stately Beaux Arts Glen Ilah Hotel built in 1897. For decades, settlers and salesmen lodged at this prominent hotel. Continue north to peruse historic photographs at S 143 Gallery chronicling life in old Glendale. Venture inside the historic Alexia’s Antique Galleries where nine dealers sell rare collectibles in a Victorian-style home. Nearby, kids will marvel at the elaborate Lionel model train displays at I Like Trains. Cross the railroad tracks to Sugahrush for decadent cupcakes baked from scratch.
Insider Tip: Every Friday evening from October through May, Glendale hosts Glitters & Glow Block Party featuring live music, food trucks, yard games, craft vendors, and festive lights strung across the streetscape. It’s the perfect atmosphere to experience downtown’s laidback, family-friendly vibe.
Address: Historic downtown Glendale spans along 58th and 59th Avenues from Myrtle to Glen Ellyn
Phone: 480-210-6200
White Tank Mountain Regional Park: Rugged Trails with City Views
One of the best ways to experience Glendale’s iconic desert mountain scenery is at White Tank Mountain Regional Park. The park contains nearly 30,000 acres of rugged ridgelines, canyons, and trails with panoramic views of the valley below. Challenge yourself on the popular Waterfall Trail, a strenuous 4.2 mile hike that passes scenic natural pools and cascades fed by Mesquite Falls. Take photos atop Hoodoo Trail overlooking surreal rock formations. On the easy 1-mile Willow Canyon Loop, a perennial stream feeds lush cottonwoods and willow trees, attracting songbirds and butterflies. After your hike, stop by the White Tank Mountains Visitor Center designed to mimic a mining structure. Exhibits detail the park’s mining history and CCC contributions during the 1930s. Pick up trail maps and browse the gift shop stocked with regional foods, nature books, and souvenirs made by local artists.
Insider Tip: Extend your day of desert adventures with a private tour to the petroglyph sites inside White Tank Mountain Regional Park, normally restricted from public access. Archaeologists and tribal experts will decode the rock art left by ancient Hohokam people.
Address: 13025 N White Tank Mountain Rd, Waddell, AZ 85355
Phone: 480-210-6200
Westgate Entertainment District: Big City Fun in Glendale
When you’re seeking entertainment, dining, and nightlife—all in a walkable urban complex—look no further than the vibrant Westgate Entertainment District. Conveniently located near sports stadiums and shopping centers, Westgate offers a central hub where there’s always something happening. Catch a movie on IMAX’s massive four-story screen at Harkins Theatres or try your hand at bowling a strike at Lucky Strike. With 20+ dining options ranging from sushi to barbecue, you’ll find flavors to suit every palate. Sip local craft brews on the patio at Bottled Blonde or enjoy milkshakes and games at Cold Stone Creamery. When night falls, dance the night away at HYDE Lounge, Whiskey Rose Bar & Grill, or Calico Jack’s Mexican Cantina. On weekends, the entertainment district hosts free live music and events like yoga in the waterfront courtyard. Kids will love cooling off in the dancing fountains. With major sporting events and concerts at nearby State Farm Stadium, Westgate is also the perfect place for pre-game festivities.
Insider Tip: Stop by the Westgate Box Office to score last-minute tickets to sold-out concerts, Arizona Cardinals football games, and other local events at discounted prices.
Address: 6751 N Sunset Blvd, Glendale, AZ 85305
Phone: 480-210-6200
Glendale Chocolate Festival: A Sweet Celebration
What happens when you bring thousands of chocolate lovers together for the ultimate candy-filled celebration? You get the Glendale Chocolate Festival, three days of pure chocolate bliss every February. Indulge your sweet tooth as you sample exquisite chocolates, confections, ice creams, and baked goods from over 50 vendors. Sip on chocolate martinis and mochas while grooving to live music. Browse chocolate-themed arts and crafts from local artisans. Of course, the centerpiece is the towering Chocolate Fountain where you can dip strawberries, marshmallows, and rice krispy treats in flowing chocolate. Kids will love getting their faces painted and joining hands-on demonstrations by top pastry chefs and chocolatiers. Don’t miss the chance to meet food celebrities like Chef Duff Goldman of Ace of Cakes fame. With chocolate, music, and fun filling the streets of Historic downtown Glendale, this sweet festival is a sensory experience like no other.
Insider Tip: For the ultimate VIP experience, upgrade to the RSVP Chocolate Lovers Lounge on Friday and Saturday evenings. You’ll gain access to chocolate tastings, an open bar, and private restrooms while enjoying views of the entertainment stage.
Address: Historic Downtown Glendale
W Glendale Ave between 58th and 59th Avenues
Phone: 480-210-6200
Glendale Folk & Heritage Festival
Each February, downtown Glendale celebrates the city’s rich diversity during the annual Glendale Folk & Heritage Festival. This free event honors the traditions of Glendale’s many cultures through vibrant music, dance, arts, and food. Marvel at colorful costumes as Mexican dance troupes perform alongside Greek folk dancers, First Nations drummers, and Romanian violinists. Treat your taste buds to a world food bazaar dishing up authentic cuisine from Jamaica, Tibet, Greece, Mexico, Serbia and more. Hands-on workshops invite you to tryactivities like basket weaving, embroidery, and soap carving. As you stroll the juried arts and crafts show, shop handmade treasures from around the globe. Don’t miss the Folk Life demonstrations where you can watch time-honored skills like sheep shearing and tortilla making. With six stages and over 100 performers, you’ll find entertainment for all ages. Dance to pop tunes from headliners like Los Lobos then relax at the beer garden with local brews. At the Glendale Folk & Heritage Festival, it’s clear that our diversity makes us stronger.
Insider Tip: Time your visit for midday to catch Parada de Las Naciones, a lively parade celebrating the festival’s rich cultural heritage with vibrant floats and costumes. You’ll feel like you’re traveling the world all in one place!
Address: Historic Downtown Glendale W Glendale Ave between 58th & 59th Avenues
Phone: 480-210-6200
Plan Your Trip With Party Bus Glendale
As you can see, Glendale hides a treasure trove of distinctive attractions just waiting to be uncovered. From rejuvenating desert escapes to captivating museums to lively cultural festivals, Glendale offers memorable experiences for every interest. The best part? When you rent a party bus from Party Bus Glendale, getting to these amazing attractions is part of the fun. Our comfortable fleet with personalized service ensures effortless group transportation for your group across the state. Focus on creating special moments together while we handle the driving. For your next group outing in Glendale, make it a trip to remember. Call Party Bus Glendale at 480-210-6200 to book your party bus rental today. Our team is ready to help you uncover the magical hidden side of Glendale!