Find the Best Things to Do in Glendale
By Patricia Escarcega
Phoenix, Scottsdale, and Tucson Local Expert
About Glendale
Photo courtesy of Glendale Convention and Visitors Bureau
Glendale is the fourth largest city in Arizona, nestled in the northwestern quadrant of the Phoenix Metro area. Over the years, Glendale has transitioned from anonymous Phoenix suburb to thriving mini-metropolis, home to professional sports teams and one of the city's best antique-shopping districts. Old Town Glendale is home to the Caitlin Court Shopping District, featuring dozens of specialty shops, cafes, restaurants, and antique stores. On the western edge of Glendale, the Westgate City Center is a thriving mixed-used urban development featuring shops, restaurants, a movie theatre, University of Phoenix Stadium (home of the Arizona Cardinals), and Jobing.com arena (home of the Phoenix Coyotes). Whether you come to stroll Glendale's charming historic downtown, or get a taste of the city's enormous growth in recent years, this Phoenix neighborhood more than stands on its own.
See & Do
Cerreta Candy Company is Arizona's homegrown candy company. The Cerreta family has been producing fine chocolates, caramels, and other confections for over 40 years in their Glendale facility. Take a free guided tour and watch the magic of candy being made.
Eat
Located on Glendale Avenue just east of the downtown city square, La Perla stands as one of the oldest Mexican food restaurants in the Phoenix area. The humble adobe building and dank interior belie the savory hot plates coming out of the swinging kitchen doors. Be warned that it can get loud on the weekends, when the strolling mariachis are making their rounds.
Party
This mega shopping and entertainment complex is located at the western edge of the Glendale city limits, but it's worth the drive just to see the neon lit up at night. Westgate is home to numerous clubs, bars, and restaurants, including The Shout House, a piano bar with shows every weekend.
Shop
Antique Stores. Downtown Glendale is home to dozens of antique shops, making this one of the best places for discovering vintage treasures. The two-story Mad Hatter is one of the largest antique stores in the area, featuring dozens of vendor stalls selling everything from handmade dolls to vintage cookware.
Shopping: Caitlin Court. Don't leave Glendale without first taking a stroll through Caitlin Court. This small shopping district, located in downtown Glendale, is the epitome of charm. Historic cottage-style homes have been converted into cafes, boutiques, and specialty shops, making for an idyllic afternoon of browsing.