Need a sunny West Valley getaway with fun, food, and fast cars? Head to Avondale! Located just west of Phoenix, Avondale offers desert trails, family attractions, and NASCAR thrills. Whether you're catching a race, hiking desert landscapes, or sampling Southwest flavors, Avondale makes a vibrant base for exploring metro Phoenix.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Avondale is during the fall, winter, and spring (October–April). With sunny skies and mild temps, it's ideal for hiking, patio dining, and attending events. Summers are hot but great for indoor activities and fewer crowds.
How to Get There
- If you are traveling by car: Avondale is located off I-10, about 20–30 minutes west of downtown Phoenix.
- By Air: Fly into Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX), about 25 minutes away by car.
- By Bus/Light Rail: Valley Metro buses serve Avondale, and nearby Park & Ride lots connect to Phoenix's transit network.
Where to Stay
- Home2 Suites by Hilton – Modern, pet-friendly suites with kitchenettes and a pool, great for families or extended stays.
- Hilton Garden Inn Avondale – Conveniently located near I-10, with an outdoor pool and on-site restaurant.
- My Place Hotel – Avondale – Clean and affordable option with kitchenettes and close proximity to restaurants and shops.
Top Attractions
⮕ Catch High-Speed Action at Phoenix International Raceway
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What is the Phoenix International Raceway?
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Where is the raceway located?
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When did the Phoenix International Raceway open?
- The raceway first opened in 1964.
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What major events are hosted at the raceway?
- The track hosts two weekends of NASCAR races every year.
- It is one of only thirteen raceways on the NASCAR schedule to hold more than one NASCAR race weekend annually.
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What other racing series have taken place at the raceway?
- The raceway has also hosted events such as:
- The WeatherTech SportsCar Championship
- The USAC (United States Auto Club)
- The IndyCar Series
- The CART (Championship Auto Racing Teams)
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What are some key features of the raceway?
- The track features lights around the raceway for night races.
- The grandstand can accommodate approximately 51,000 spectators.
Address: Phoenix International Raceway
, 7602 S Avondale Blvd, Avondale, AZ 85323, Phone: 623-463-5400
⮕ Watch the Latest Blockbusters at Harkins Theatres
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What is Harkins Theatres?
- Harkins Theatres is a movie theater chain that has been owned and operated by the Harkins family since its founding.
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Who founded Harkins Theatres?
- The business was founded in 1933 by Dwight “Red” Harkins.
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How large is Harkins Theatres today?
- It is the fifth largest movie theater business in all of North America.
- The company operates thirty-four theatres across five states.
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How long has Harkins Theatres been in business?
- The company has a history spanning over eighty years.
- It remains one of the leading entertainment companies in the southwest region of the United States.
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What is the history of the first Harkins Theatre?
- In 1933, Red Harkins opened his first theater, The State Theatre, in Tempe, Arizona.
- He was only eighteen years old at the time, making him possibly the youngest theater owner and operator in the world.
Address: Harkins Theatres, 10250 W McDowell Rd, Avondale, AZ 85392, Phone: 623-478-9411
⮕ Sip Craft Beer with a Retro Twist at 8-Bit Aleworks
© 8-Bit Aleworks
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What is 8-Bit Aleworks?
- 8-Bit Aleworks is a craft microbrewery in Avondale, Arizona with a fun retro gaming theme.
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Who founded 8-Bit Aleworks?
- The brewery was founded by Krystina and Ryan Whitten.
- They opened the production-style facility in 2015.
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Where is 8-Bit Aleworks located?
- The brewery is located within an industrial complex in Avondale, Arizona.
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What makes 8-Bit Aleworks unique?
- The brewery focuses on creating refreshing and unique craft beers in small batches.
- It offers a themed experience inspired by retro video games.
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What can visitors expect at the tasting room?
- The tasting room has seating for 46 people.
- Guests can enjoy classic gaming systems, including Super Nintendo, NES, tabletop games, and arcade cabinets.
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What is the atmosphere like?
- The tasting room has a fun and relaxing atmosphere that enhances the experience.
- Excellent service pairs well with the high-quality craft beer at this small brewery.
Address: 8-Bit Aleworks, 1050 N Fairway Dr, AZ, AZ 85323, Phone: 623-925-1650
⮕ Train Like a Pro at American Sports Centers
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What is the American Sports Centers in Avondale?
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What facilities does the American Sports Centers offer?
- The center features 4,000 square feet of multi-purpose space.
- It includes two indoor soccer fields, four basketball courts, and six volleyball courts.
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What programs are available during the week?
- On weekdays, the sports center hosts a variety of leagues, clinics, and classes for athletes of all ages.
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What events take place on weekends?
- During the weekends, the center holds special events, leagues, and tournaments throughout the year.
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What is the quality of the courts and equipment?
- All courts feature high-quality flooring and equipment, ensuring a top-tier experience for athletes.
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Are food and drinks available at the facility?
- Guests can visit Sidelines, the on-site restaurant, for grilled-to-order food.
- Sidelines also offers a selection of wine and beer on tap for visitors.
Address: American Sports Centers, 755 N 114th Ave, Avondale, AZ 85323, Phone: 623-792-5504
⮕ Bowl, Game, and Dine at Main Event Entertainment
© Main Event Entertainment
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What is Main Event Entertainment?
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What activities are available at Main Event?
- Main Event offers a variety of fun activities, including:
- Bowling
- Regulation billiards
- Laser tag
- Video games and arcade games
- Karaoke
- Miniature golf
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Does Main Event offer more adventurous activities?
- Yes! For those looking for more adventure, Main Event features:
- Gravity ropes
- Rock climbing
- Zip lining
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What kind of food is served at Main Event?
- Main Event features a full-service restaurant and sports bar with a wide selection of food and drinks.
- Guests can enjoy classic options like:
- Onion rings, wings, and pizza
- There are also more refined choices, such as:
- Teriyaki salmon
- Chicken primavera
- Seasonal fresh salads
Address: Main Event Entertainment, 10315 W. McDowell Rd, Avondale, AZ 85392, Phone: 623-936-5300
⮕ Picnic or Play at the Spacious Avondale Friendship Park
© Avondale Friendship Park
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What is Avondale Friendship Park?
- Avondale Friendship Park is a spacious outdoor park that offers a variety of recreational activities for friends and families.
- The park is free to enter and open to all visitors.
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What sports facilities are available at the park?
- The park features large expanses of grass for various outdoor games.
- Visitors can play soccer, baseball, and softball.
- There are also tennis and basketball courts available for public use.
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Are there walking or skating paths?
- Yes, the park has paved walking paths that are ideal for:
- Walking and jogging
- Rollerblading and skateboarding
- They are also great for infant strollers.
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What amenities are available for families?
- There are shaded children’s playgrounds for kids to enjoy.
- The park has restrooms and picnic areas for a comfortable visit.
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Is there an area for dogs?
- Yes, the park features an enclosed dog park where pets can play safely.
Address: Avondale Friendship Park, 12325 W. McDowell Road, Avondale, AZ 85392,
623-333-2400
Where to Eat
⮕ Taste Cajun Favorites at Flavors of Louisiana
© Flavors of Louisiana
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What is Flavors of Louisiana?
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Who founded Flavors of Louisiana?
- The restaurant was established by Jennifer Landry Goff.
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What type of cuisine does Flavors of Louisiana serve?
- The restaurant specializes in Cajun cuisine inspired by Jennifer’s family heritage.
- Her mother was from New Orleans and her father from White Castle, Louisiana.
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What are the two styles of Cajun cooking at Flavors of Louisiana?
- The restaurant highlights two Cajun styles of cooking:
- Country Cajun: Known for being spicy and flavorful, with sauces using a brown roux base.
- City Cajun: Uses tomato-based sauces and is known for being spicy hot.
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Where can guests try both Cajun styles?
- Thanks to Flavors of Louisiana, visitors in Arizona can enjoy both styles of authentic Cajun cuisine.
Address: Flavors of Louisiana, 13025 W. Rancho Santa Fe Blvd, Avondale, AZ 85392, Phone: 623-935-2357
⮕ Enjoy Authentic Mexican Cuisine at Fiesta Mexicana
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Who founded Fiesta Mexicana?
- Patricia and Martin moved from Jalisco, Mexico to the United States in the 1980s.
- After years of working in multiple businesses, they pursued the American Dream by opening their own Mexican restaurant.
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What inspired Patricia and Martin to open a restaurant?
- The couple wanted to share the authentic recipes of their family with others.
- They aimed to bring the flavors and traditions of Mexico to their community.
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How did Fiesta Mexicana grow?
- The restaurant quickly became popular and expanded into a chain spread across multiple states.
- With this expansion, more people were able to experience authentic Mexican cuisine.
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What is the goal of Fiesta Mexicana?
- The restaurant’s goal is to offer all guests “a small ‘rinconcito’ of Mexico”.
- They strive to create a space where customers can enjoy Mexican traditions, hospitality, and food.
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Where can visitors experience Fiesta Mexicana?
- Guests can visit Fiesta Mexicana in Avondale to enjoy an authentic taste of Mexico.
Address: Fiesta Mexicana, 1733 N Dysart Rd, Avondale AZ, 85323, Phone: 623-535 5010
⮕ Savor Mediterranean Dishes at Zeta’s Grill
© Zeta's Grill
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What is Zeta's Grill?
- Zeta's Grill is a restaurant in Avondale that focuses on fresh, homemade Lebanese/Mediterranean cuisine.
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How long has Zeta’s Grill been in Avondale?
- The restaurant has been a part of the Avondale community for more than three years.
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What is the philosophy behind Zeta’s Grill?
- The people behind Zeta’s Grill believe in the importance of maintaining a balanced and healthy lifestyle.
- They strive to ensure that this starts with the fresh, high-quality food served at their restaurant.
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What kind of food does Zeta’s Grill serve?
- The menu includes a variety of homemade, never frozen, fresh Lebanese/Mediterranean dishes.
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What can guests expect on the menu?
- The menu features an array of options, including:
- Cold and hot entrees
- Fresh organic garden vegetables
- Appetizers
- A selection of Mediterranean desserts
Address: Zeta's Grill, 2935 N Dysart Rd, Avondale, AZ 85392, Phone: 623-547-4612
If you are traveling with kids:
⮕ Let Kids Climb, Jump, and Slide at Uptown Jungle Fun Park
© Anton Gvozdikov/stock.adobe.com
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What is Uptown Jungle?
- Uptown Jungle is an indoor fun park designed for children to enjoy exciting activities while staying active.
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What benefits does Uptown Jungle offer for kids?
- Children will have tons of fun while also engaging in exercise.
- They will enjoy social interactions with friends in a safe and engaging environment.
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What attractions are available at Uptown Jungle?
- Exciting attractions include:
- Climbing Walls
- Trampolines
- Spider Tower
- Obstacle Course
- Huge play structure with slides
- Ninja Course
- Mini Zip Line Adventure
- Ball Blaster Arena
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Are there any height or age restrictions?
- Yes, some games have height and age restrictions for safety purposes.
- Visitors can check the Uptown Jungle website for more details.
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Is Uptown Jungle available for birthday parties?
- Yes! The venue is ideal for children’s birthday parties.
- Inclusive packages are available for a hassle-free celebration.
Address: Uptown Jungle, 1725 N. Dysart Road, Avondale, AZ 85392, Phone: 623-526-0160
Must-see if you are a first-time visitor:
- Estrella Mountain Regional Park – Hike desert trails, bike rugged terrain, or enjoy a picnic with mountain views.
- Coldwater Golf Club – A scenic public course that’s perfect for a laid-back desert golf day.
- Avondale Civic Center Library & Amphitheater – Family-friendly space with events, performances, and community gatherings.
Where to Eat
- Flavors of Louisiana – Popular local gem for authentic Cajun and Creole cuisine.
- Cantina Gueros – Lively spot for street tacos, tequila cocktails, and weekend brunch.
- Native Grill & Wings – Casual chain known for wings, burgers, and sports on big screens.
If you are interested in local events:
- Avondale Goodyear Lakeside Music Fest (Spring) – Free outdoor music, food trucks, and family fun by the water.
- Avondale KidFest (April) – Educational exhibits, games, and hands-on activities for young kids and families.
- Autumn Nights (October) – Fall festival with live music, pumpkin patch, and seasonal treats in the civic center area.
If you are looking for unique day trips within 30 Minutes of Avondale, Arizona:
- Downtown Phoenix (25–30 min) – Explore museums, catch a Suns game, or dine in Roosevelt Row.
- Glendale (20–25 min) – Visit the Westgate Entertainment District or catch an NFL game at State Farm Stadium.
- Litchfield Park (15 min) – Stroll tree-lined streets, enjoy golf, or relax at The Wigwam resort spa.
- Goodyear (10–15 min) – Attend spring training baseball games or explore Goodyear Ballpark.
- South Mountain Park (30 min) – Hike or drive to one of the best panoramic views in metro Phoenix.
FAQ:
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Where is Avondale, Arizona located?
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How close is Avondale to Phoenix?
- Avondale is in close proximity to Phoenix and several other cities, making it an easily accessible destination.
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What does Avondale offer visitors?
- Despite being near a large city, Avondale has plenty to offer on its own.
- The town features attractions such as dining, parks, local history, and arts.
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Is there anything for car racing enthusiasts?
- Yes! Car racing fans may enjoy a visit to the Phoenix International Raceway.
Map:
Plan Your Trip
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