Goodyear, Arizona wasn’t on my radar at first—but sometimes the best places are the ones that don’t try too hard to impress you. Tucked just west of Phoenix, this city surprised me with its mix of desert peace and hometown energy. I didn’t come here chasing bucket list landmarks—I came to slow down, eat well, and explore without pressure. And Goodyear delivered. I remember thinking, "It’s easy to like a place that feels lived-in and real."
Best Things to Do in Goodyear, AZ
Cheering Under Desert Skies at Goodyear Ballpark
There’s something timeless about catching a spring training game under the Arizona sun. At Goodyear Ballpark, the vibe was laid-back and festive—families in team gear, the smell of popcorn and sunscreen, kids chasing mascots. I found my seat behind third base and thought, "This is how baseball was meant to feel—up close, unfiltered, and a little sunburned."
The stadium isn’t flashy, but that’s the charm. It’s just baseball, cold drinks, and the buzz of hopeful fans watching players chase their big league moment.
After the game, I grabbed a bratwurst and kettle chips from one of the food stands—simple and salty and perfect. I sat back in the bleachers, beer in hand, and let the sunset wrap around the outfield like a closing curtain.
Goodyear Ballpark At a Glance
- Drive Time from Downtown Goodyear: ~5 minutes south
- Vibe: Family-friendly, classic, cheerful
- Highlights: Spring training (Cleveland Guardians, Cincinnati Reds), community events
- Best Time to Visit: February–March for spring training
- Cost: ~$10–30 depending on seats
- Hours: Game times vary; gates open ~90 minutes prior
- Address: 1933 S Ballpark Way, Goodyear, AZ 85338
Hiking Into Stillness at Estrella Mountain Regional Park
Estrella Mountain Regional Park gave me what I didn’t know I needed—silence, space, and that dry desert breeze that makes your thoughts feel clearer. The trails were wide and sunlit, framed by saguaros and distant peaks. I chose the Baseline Trail, not too steep, just long enough to feel like I’d earned my solitude. I remember pausing halfway and thinking, "There’s a kind of peace here that doesn’t ask questions—it just lets you be."
The views stretched for miles, and even with the Arizona heat rising, I felt grounded in a way I rarely do at home.
After the hike, I headed to Grounds Control Craft Coffee & Beer. I ordered an iced honey lavender latte and a buttery breakfast burrito with green chile. Sitting on the patio, boots dusty, sun still warm on my arms—it was the kind of morning I’d do all over again.
Estrella Mountain Regional Park At a Glance
- Drive Time from Goodyear Ballpark: ~15 minutes southeast
- Vibe: Expansive, meditative, rugged
- Highlights: Hiking, biking, horseback trails, scenic desert views
- Best Time to Visit: Early mornings in fall through spring
- Cost: $7 per vehicle daily fee
- Hours: 6 a.m. – 8 p.m. daily
- Address: 14805 W Vineyard Ave, Goodyear, AZ 85338
Hunting for Stories at the Brass Armadillo
Stepping into the Brass Armadillo was like opening a time capsule the size of a warehouse. Aisles upon aisles of vintage oddities—faded Coca-Cola signs, 1940s dresses, comic books, war medals, Pyrex, Elvis vinyls—you name it, it’s probably here. I wandered for over an hour, completely absorbed, touching the past with my fingertips. I remember holding an old rotary phone and thinking, "Someone once whispered secrets into this."
The space buzzed with that low murmur of people discovering forgotten treasures. It didn’t matter if you bought anything—just being there was a trip through memory.
Afterward, I stopped at Haymaker Restaurant Co., just down the road. I ordered their cowboy burger stacked with smoked bacon and crispy onions, plus a side of sweet potato tots. It was hearty, nostalgic, and exactly the kind of meal that fit the mood of the morning.
Brass Armadillo Antique Mall At a Glance
- Drive Time from Estrella Mountain Park: ~20 minutes north
- Vibe: Eclectic, nostalgic, endlessly curious
- Highlights: Vintage goods, collectibles, local dealer booths
- Best Time to Visit: Mid-morning or weekdays for fewer crowds
- Cost: Free to browse
- Hours: 9 a.m. – 9 p.m. daily
- Address: 13277 W McDowell Rd, Goodyear, AZ 85395
Uncovering Ancient Stories at The Bible Museum
When I stepped into The Bible Museum, I wasn’t sure what to expect—but what I found was quiet depth and incredible detail. From centuries-old manuscripts to displays on biblical archaeology, the space was reverent without being overwhelming. I moved slowly through the exhibits, reading inscriptions, marveling at the craftsmanship of ancient texts. I remember standing before a 400-year-old Torah scroll and thinking, "This isn’t just history—it’s devotion preserved."
The volunteer staff were warm and eager to share stories, and the whole experience felt personal and well loved, like walking through a curated collection of someone’s lifelong passion.
Afterward, I visited Enroute Coffee and Tea House nearby and had a chai latte with oat milk and a warm cinnamon scone. It was quiet there too, a good place to reflect after a morning spent wandering through faith and time.
The Bible Museum At a Glance
- Drive Time from Brass Armadillo: ~10 minutes east
- Vibe: Thoughtful, scholarly, peaceful
- Highlights: Ancient manuscripts, historical artifacts, volunteer-led tours
- Best Time to Visit: Weekdays for quiet visits and guided attention
- Cost: Free admission
- Hours: Mon–Fri, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. (closed weekends)
- Address: 2000 N Litchfield Rd, Goodyear, AZ 85395
Unwinding Over Pints at Saddle Mountain Brewing Company
By late afternoon, I found myself craving something local—and Saddle Mountain Brewing Company delivered in spades. The space had that no-frills Arizona comfort: warm wood, wide tables, and the friendly buzz of conversation. I tried the Taildragger IPA, bold and citrusy, and sat back thinking, "This is what a good brewery should feel like—casual, creative, and full of personality."
The staff clearly cared about what they poured, and I found myself chatting with a bartender about the World War II airplane decor and aviation-themed beer names. It wasn’t just beer—it was storytelling in a pint glass.
I ordered their brisket grilled cheese with chipotle aioli and a side of beer-battered fries. It was smoky, melty, and exactly the kind of indulgent, end-of-day meal that pairs with local brews and low lighting.
Saddle Mountain Brewing Company At a Glance
- Drive Time from The Bible Museum: ~12 minutes southwest
- Vibe: Laid-back, flavorful, proudly local
- Highlights: Craft beer, aviation theme, brisket dishes, casual dining
- Best Time to Visit: Late afternoon or happy hour
- Cost: Moderate; entrées $12–18, beer flights ~$10
- Hours: Tues–Sun, 11 a.m. – 9 p.m.; closed Mondays
- Address: 15651 W Roosevelt St, Goodyear, AZ 85338
Starting the Day Right at Black Bear Diner
Black Bear Diner gave me exactly what I needed before a long morning of exploring—comfort food, quick service, and bottomless coffee. The inside felt like a cozy lodge, all wood beams and bear-themed charm. I slid into a booth and thought, "Some mornings call for pancakes and zero apologies."
I ordered the California bacon scramble with avocado, cheddar, and green onions—plus a short stack of sweet cream pancakes on the side. It was hearty and satisfying in the way only diner breakfasts know how to be.
There’s something soothing about starting your day somewhere that feels like it’s been serving the same locals for decades. Black Bear Diner didn’t just feed me—it reminded me that good food and kind service still matter.
Black Bear Diner At a Glance
- Drive Time from Saddle Mountain Brewing Co.: ~10 minutes southeast
- Vibe: Cozy, classic, family-friendly
- Highlights: Big breakfasts, generous portions, casual charm
- Best Time to Visit: Morning or weekday brunch hours
- Cost: $10–15 per meal
- Hours: Daily, 6 a.m. – 10 p.m.
- Address: 980 N Dysart Rd, Goodyear, AZ 85338
Goodyear Grows on You
Goodyear might not shout for your attention, but if you listen closely, it has plenty to say. It gave me sunshine and stillness, but also stories—from museum relics to beer flights, desert trails to minor league games. Each stop reminded me that travel doesn’t have to be flashy to be meaningful.
By the time I left, I realized Goodyear is the kind of place that rewards curiosity. It’s a city where you can wander at your own pace, eat like a local, and leave with a heart just a little fuller than when you arrived.
Jump to a Spot...
- • Cheering Under Desert Skies at Goodyear Ballpark
- • Hiking Into Stillness at Estrella Mountain Regional Park
- • Hunting for Stories at the Brass Armadillo
- • Uncovering Ancient Stories at The Bible Museum
- • Unwinding Over Pints at Saddle Mountain Brewing Company
- • Starting the Day Right at Black Bear Diner