Discover the Top 10 Year-Round Attractions in Glendale, Arizona That Locals Love

Key Takeaways:

• Glendale, Arizona, offers a mix of outdoor adventures, live entertainment, and cultural experiences that can be enjoyed in any season.
• From scenic hiking trails and historic landmarks to major sporting events and shopping districts, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant city.
• Whether you’re a sports fan, a nature enthusiast, or a festival-goer, Glendale has plenty of activities that make it an exciting destination year-round.

Table of Contents

1. Explore Thunderbird Conservation Park
2. Visit the State Farm Stadium for a Game or Concert
3. Stroll Through Historic Downtown Glendale
4. Experience the Glendale Glitters Festival
5. Discover Wildlife at the Wildlife World Zoo and Aquarium
6. Shop and Dine at Westgate Entertainment District
7. Hike the White Tank Mountain Regional Park Trails
8. Explore the Cerreta Candy Company Factory
9. Catch a Spring Training Baseball Game
10. Visit the Arizona Doll and Toy Museum

Located just outside Phoenix, Glendale, Arizona, is a dynamic city known for its mix of outdoor recreation, sports, shopping, and cultural attractions. Originally founded as a farming town in the late 1800s, Glendale has grown into a hotspot for adventure seekers, sports fans, and festival lovers. With a warm desert climate, this city offers plenty of activities that can be enjoyed year-round, making it a great destination for locals and tourists alike.

People love Glendale for its stunning mountain views, thriving entertainment scene, and rich history. Whether you’re hiking through the scenic desert landscapes, catching a Cardinals football game, or exploring the historic downtown, there’s always something happening in this city. If you’re planning a visit, here are ten exciting activities that you can enjoy in Glendale any time of the year.

1. Explore Thunderbird Conservation Park

If you love hiking and scenic views, Thunderbird Conservation Park is a must-visit destination in Glendale. This 1,185-acre park is home to multiple trails that range from easy walks to challenging climbs, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding desert. The Cholla Loop Trail is a popular choice for those looking to experience a moderate hike with rewarding panoramic views at the top. Wildlife enthusiasts can also spot roadrunners, jackrabbits, and various birds native to the area.

Aside from hiking, the park provides excellent spots for picnicking and nature photography. Early mornings and evenings are the best times to visit, as the Arizona sun can be intense during midday hours. Whether you’re looking for a solo nature escape or a fun group hike, Thunderbird Conservation Park is one of Glendale’s best year-round outdoor attractions.

2. Visit the State Farm Stadium for a Game or Concert

Sports fans and music lovers alike will enjoy a visit to State Farm Stadium, home of the Arizona Cardinals and one of the top event venues in the state. Whether you’re catching an NFL game, a high-energy concert, or a major sporting event like the Super Bowl or Fiesta Bowl, the stadium offers an unforgettable experience. With its retractable roof and massive seating capacity, it hosts some of the biggest entertainment events in Arizona year-round.

Even if you’re not attending a game, you can take a behind-the-scenes stadium tour, where you’ll learn about the stadium’s unique architecture and get an up-close look at the locker rooms and field. The surrounding area also offers plenty of dining and entertainment options, making it easy to turn a stadium visit into a full-day experience.

3. Stroll Through Historic Downtown Glendale

For a charming mix of history, shopping, and dining, take a walk through Historic Downtown Glendale. This area is known for its well-preserved historic buildings, unique antique shops, and locally owned cafés. Catlin Court and Old Towne are two popular districts where visitors can explore vintage boutiques, handcrafted goods, and hidden gems that give Glendale its unique character.

Throughout the year, Downtown Glendale hosts seasonal events and street festivals that bring the community together. Whether you’re sipping coffee at a cozy café, browsing rare collectibles, or attending a holiday market, this district is a wonderful way to experience the city’s rich culture.

4. Experience the Glendale Glitters Festival

Every winter, Glendale Glitters transforms the city into a dazzling wonderland with over 1.6 million twinkling lights illuminating the streets. This award-winning holiday festival kicks off in late November and continues through January, featuring live entertainment, food trucks, and family-friendly activities. The event takes place in Murphy Park, where visitors can enjoy festive displays, horse-drawn carriage rides, and even an ice-skating rink.

Even if you’re visiting outside the holiday season, the city hosts several other festivals throughout the year, including the Chocolate Affaire and Glendale Folk & Heritage Festival. These events highlight local artisans, musicians, and food vendors, making Glendale a great city for those who love community celebrations.

5. Discover Wildlife at the Wildlife World Zoo and Aquarium

Animal lovers will have a blast at the Wildlife World Zoo, Aquarium & Safari Park, home to Arizona’s largest collection of exotic animals. Located just outside Glendale, this massive zoo features over 600 species, including white tigers, rhinos, and giraffes. The zoo’s interactive exhibits allow visitors to feed stingrays, walk through an aviary, and get up close with some of the world’s most fascinating creatures.

The adjoining aquarium features marine life such as sharks, sea turtles, and tropical fish, providing a break from the desert scenery. With daily animal shows, rides, and educational experiences, the Wildlife World Zoo and Aquarium is a fantastic place to visit year-round for all ages.

6. Shop and Dine at Westgate Entertainment District

For a lively mix of shopping, dining, and entertainment, Westgate Entertainment District is the go-to destination in Glendale. This bustling outdoor complex features a variety of restaurants, from casual eateries to upscale dining, as well as trendy shops and boutiques. Whether you’re grabbing a bite before a concert at State Farm Stadium or exploring the vibrant nightlife scene, Westgate offers something for everyone.

Beyond shopping and dining, Westgate hosts live music performances, seasonal events, and family-friendly activities throughout the year. The outdoor fountains and open spaces make it a great place to relax and people-watch, while movie theaters and escape rooms add to the fun. Whether you’re looking for a date night spot or a place to hang out with friends, Westgate is always buzzing with activity.

7. Hike the White Tank Mountain Regional Park Trails

For outdoor enthusiasts looking for a more rugged adventure, White Tank Mountain Regional Park offers some of the best hiking trails near Glendale. Covering over 30,000 acres, this park features dozens of trails that range from easy walks to challenging climbs with stunning desert views. One of the most popular hikes is the Waterfall Trail, which leads to a seasonal waterfall after rainfall, making it a unique experience in the Arizona desert.

The park is also a great spot for mountain biking, horseback riding, and stargazing at night. With plenty of picnic areas and scenic viewpoints, it’s an excellent place for a day trip away from the city. Whether you’re looking for a short nature walk or a challenging hike, White Tank Mountain Regional Park is a must-visit destination.

8. Explore the Cerreta Candy Company Factory

For a sweet adventure, visit the Cerreta Candy Company, a family-owned chocolate and candy factory in Glendale. This local favorite offers guided tours where visitors can see how chocolates and caramel treats are made, from start to finish. The best part? You can sample freshly made sweets and even create your own custom chocolates during special workshops.

The factory store is packed with handmade treats, making it the perfect place to pick up souvenirs or gifts for friends and family. Whether you’re a chocoholic or just love seeing how things are made, the Cerreta Candy Company is a fun and delicious stop any time of year.

9. Catch a Spring Training Baseball Game

Glendale is a Spring Training hotspot, hosting Major League Baseball teams during the Cactus League season. Each spring, Camelback Ranch becomes the training ground for the Los Angeles Dodgers and Chicago White Sox, drawing baseball fans from all over the country. Watching a game here offers an up-close and personal experience with players in a relaxed setting before the regular MLB season begins.

Beyond the games, Camelback Ranch provides opportunities for autographs, player meet-and-greets, and behind-the-scenes stadium tours. Even if you visit outside of Spring Training season, the ballpark is still worth a visit for baseball fans looking to soak in some sports history.

10. Visit the Arizona Doll and Toy Museum

For a unique and nostalgic experience, stop by the Arizona Doll and Toy Museum, which showcases an extensive collection of dolls and vintage toys from different eras. Located in Historic Downtown Glendale, this museum is filled with rare and antique dolls, including those dating back to the 1800s. The carefully curated exhibits highlight different styles of dolls, from classic porcelain figures to modern collectibles.

Kids and adults alike will enjoy exploring the detailed dollhouses and displays of classic toys from past decades. The museum often hosts special events and workshops, making it an interactive and educational experience for visitors. Whether you’re a collector or just curious about childhood treasures of the past, this museum is a charming hidden gem.

What to Do if You Have Kids?

Glendale is packed with family-friendly activities that make it a great destination for kids. Hurricane Harbor Phoenix, a massive water park, offers thrilling water slides, lazy rivers, and splash areas for all ages. If your kids love animals, the Wildlife World Zoo & Aquarium is a fantastic place to see exotic animals up close. For a more hands-on experience, take them to the Children’s Museum of Phoenix, just a short drive away, where they can engage in interactive exhibits and creative play areas.

For outdoor fun, Thunderbird Conservation Park has easy trails that are great for younger hikers. Many local parks also feature playgrounds, picnic areas, and sports fields, ensuring there’s plenty of space for kids to burn off energy. No matter your child’s interests, Glendale has something exciting to offer year-round.

Where Can I Find Free Events in Glendale Arizona Taking Place This Weekend?

If you’re looking for free events in Glendale this weekend, check out PlanMyWeekend.ai. This tool helps you find concerts, farmers’ markets, cultural festivals, and outdoor activities happening nearby—all without spending a dime. Whether you’re looking for something family-friendly or a fun night out, PlanMyWeekend.ai makes it easy to explore what’s happening in your city.

Glendale’s parks and public spaces also host seasonal events, from outdoor movie nights to holiday parades. Simply enter your location on the website to discover the best free activities taking place this weekend.

Final Thoughts

Glendale, Arizona, is a year-round destination filled with outdoor adventures, sports, entertainment, and cultural experiences. Whether you’re hiking in Thunderbird Conservation Park, catching a game at State Farm Stadium, or exploring the historic downtown, there’s something for everyone.

From shopping at Westgate Entertainment District to experiencing Spring Training baseball, Glendale offers a perfect mix of excitement and relaxation. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or an extended stay, this vibrant Arizona city will keep you entertained in every season. Start planning your trip today and discover all the amazing things Glendale has to offer!