While not exactly known for its nightlife, there are plenty of things to do in Phoenix on a Friday night. This city has something for everyone, whether your style is laid back or sophisticated. So, grab a friend (or a sweetheart) and dive into the heart of Phoenix for a night to remember.
See Phoenix's city lights from Dobbins Point on South Mountain. South Mountain Park is part of the Phoenix Mountain Reserves and is located on South Central Avenue. While the park is also home to picnicking, hiking and trail riding during the day, Friday nights lend themselves to South Mountain's famous view. After entering the park, the road turns to the left and becomes Summit Road, a narrow, winding road that leads to the top of the mountain and a lookout area known as Dobbins Point.
South Mountain Park/Preserve
10919 S. Central Ave.
Phoenix, AZ 85042-8302
602-534-6324
phoenix.gov/parks
The nation's longest-running art walk, First Fridays take place on the first Friday of every month and combines galleries, studios and alternative art spaces set up on the city streets from Indian School Road to Buchanan Street and 12th Street to 17th Avenue. The details change from time to time, but the hub of the event, the Phoenix Art Museum, offers free maps and free shuttle service. Dress casually and prepare to enjoy art, music, cafes and the hum of downtown city life. This event is organized by Artlink.
Artlink
132 S. Central Ave.
Phoenix, AZ 85030
602-256-7539
artlinkphoenix.com
Phoenix is home to the Arizona Cardinals, the Arizona Diamondbacks, the Phoenix Suns, the Phoenix Coyotes, the Arizona Rattlers and the Phoenix Mercury, not to mention several college and league teams. Catch a game on a Friday night, or just hang out at a hotspot like the one below.
This upscale sports bar is owned by former Phoenix Suns star Dan Majerle and located across the street from the US Airways Center where the Suns play. Go after a game and you're likely to see a few Suns players, along with a crowd of fans. There are plenty of high-definition TVs to satisfy your sports craving, and menu items such as the flatiron steak sandwich and bacon & bleu pizza to satisfy your palette.
Majerle's Sports Grill
24 N. 2nd St.
Phoenix, AZ 85004
602-253-9004
majerles.com
Skip the big screen and see a live performance instead. With dozens of theaters in the city (from the historic Orpheum to the state-of-the-art Dodge theater to the whimsical Great Arizona Puppet Theater) you're sure to find something playing on a Friday night.