Glendale, Arizona

Things to Do

Glendale offers a variety of attractions and activities for residents and visitors to enjoy:

– State Farm Stadium: Home to the NFL’s Arizona Cardinals and host to major events such as the Super Bowl and the NCAA Final Four, this state-of-the-art stadium is a must-see for sports fans.
– Gila River Arena: This indoor arena is the home of the NHL’s Arizona Coyotes and also hosts concerts and other entertainment events.
– Westgate Entertainment District: A popular shopping, dining, and entertainment destination, Westgate features numerous restaurants, bars, and retailers, as well as a movie theater and a variety of special events throughout the year.
– Historic Downtown Glendale: This charming area offers unique shops, antique stores, and local restaurants, as well as the Glendale Visitor Center and the Glendale Public Library.

Attractions and Points of Interest

Some notable attractions and points of interest in Glendale include:

– Sahuaro Ranch Park: This historic park features preserved ranch buildings, a rose garden, and picnic areas, as well as opportunities for birdwatching and photography.
– Cerreta Candy Company: A family-owned candy factory offering tours, a gift shop, and sweet treats for visitors to enjoy.
– Thunderbird Conservation Park: A 1,185-acre park featuring hiking, horseback riding, and picnicking opportunities, as well as stunning views of the surrounding desert landscape.

Places to Stay

Glendale offers various accommodation options for visitors, including hotels, motels, and vacation rentals. Some popular hotels in the area include the Renaissance Phoenix Glendale Hotel & Spa and the Staybridge Suites Phoenix-Glendale.

For more information on Glendale’s attractions, services, and events, please visit the city’s official website.

Government Structure

Glendale operates under a council-manager form of government. The City Council consists of a mayor and six councilmembers, who are elected to four-year terms. The City Manager, appointed by the City Council, is responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operations of the city and implementing policies set by the council. Key departments within the city government include Public Safety, Economic Development, Public Works, and Parks and Recreation.

For more information about Glendale’s government structure and services, visit https://www.glendaleaz.com/government/ 

Clubs and Organizations

Glendale is home to numerous clubs and organizations that cater to a wide range of interests, such as:

– Glendale Rotary Club: A community service organization that supports local projects and initiatives, as well as international humanitarian efforts.
– Glendale Chamber of Commerce: An organization that promotes and supports local businesses, fosters economic development, and provides networking opportunities for its members.
– Glendale Women’s Club: A social and philanthropic organization that aims to enrich the community through volunteer efforts and financial support.

Golf Courses

Golf enthusiasts can enjoy several golf courses in and around Glendale, including:

– Arrowhead Country Club: A private 18-hole golf course designed by Arnold Palmer and Ed Seay, featuring beautiful landscaping and challenging play for golfers of all skill levels.
– Glen Lakes Municipal Golf Course: A public 9-hole golf course offering affordable rates and a relaxed atmosphere for golfers of all ages and abilities.
– The Legend at Arrowhead: An 18-hole public golf course designed by Arnold Palmer, featuring stunning mountain views and a challenging layout.

Hiking

Glendale and the surrounding areas offer numerous hiking opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts:

– Thunderbird Conservation Park: As mentioned earlier, this park offers over 15 miles of multi-use trails for hiking, horseback riding, and mountain biking. Trails range from easy to moderate in difficulty and provide stunning views of the desert landscape.
– White Tank Mountain Regional Park: Located about 20 miles west of Glendale, this park features over 30 miles of trails for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. The park is known for its scenic waterfall trail and ancient petroglyphs.

Quality of Life

Glendale offers its residents a high quality of life with a mix of suburban charm and urban amenities. The city has a diverse range of neighborhoods, offering housing options suitable for various budgets and preferences. Residents have access to quality healthcare, education, and employment opportunities, as well as numerous recreational activities and cultural attractions.

Transportation

Glendale is served by Valley Metro, which provides public transportation services in the Phoenix metropolitan area. Bus routes connect Glendale to neighboring cities, including Phoenix, Peoria, and Sun City. While there is currently no light rail or commuter train service in Glendale, the city is actively exploring options for expanding public transit options to better serve its residents and visitors.

For more information on Valley Metro’s services, visit https://www.valleymetro.org/.

Shopping

Glendale offers a variety of shopping options, from large malls to unique boutiques:

– Arrowhead Towne Center: A regional shopping mall featuring over 180 stores, including major retailers such as Dillard’s, JCPenney, and Macy’s, as well as a variety of dining options and a movie theater.
– Tanger Outlets Westgate: An outdoor shopping center offering over 90 brand-name and designer outlet stores, as well as a variety of dining options.
– Historic Downtown Glendale: As mentioned earlier, this charming area is home to numerous unique shops, antique stores, and local restaurants.

Art and Culture

Glendale is home to several cultural attractions and events that showcase the city’s artistic community:

– Glendale Public Art Program: This program aims to enhance the city’s visual environment through the commissioning and installation of public art projects. The city’s collection includes sculptures, murals, and other artworks that can be found throughout Glendale.
– Glendale Chocolate Affaire: An annual event held in downtown Glendale, featuring chocolate vendors, live entertainment, and activities for the whole family.
– Glendale Glitters: A holiday tradition in downtown Glendale, featuring more than 1.6 million LED lights, holiday entertainment, and festive activities for all ages.

Climate

Glendale experiences a hot desert climate, characterized by hot summers, mild winters, and low humidity. Average summer temperatures can reach over 100°F, while winter temperatures typically range from the 40s to the 60s. Glendale receives minimal rainfall, averaging less than 10 inches per year, with the majority of precipitation occurring during the monsoon season from July to September.

Community Involvement

Glendale encourages community involvement through various programs and initiatives, such as:

– Neighborhood Services: This department oversees neighborhood associations, community events, and volunteer opportunities to help residents connect with their neighbors and have a positive impact on their community. For more information, visit https://www.glendaleaz.com/neighborhoods/
– Parks and Recreation: Glendale’s Parks and Recreation Department offers a wide range of programs, activities, and events for residents of all ages, including sports leagues, fitness classes, and special events. For more information, visit https://www.glendaleaz.com/parksandrecreation/

Sports and Recreation

In addition to professional sports teams and venues, Glendale offers numerous recreational facilities and activities for residents and visitors:

– Foothills Recreation & Aquatics Center: This facility features a fitness center, indoor track, gymnasium, and aquatic center with pools, water slides, and a lazy river.
– Rose Lane Aquatics Complex: An outdoor aquatic facility offering a pool, splash pad, water slides, and swimming lessons.
– Sahuaro Ranch Sports Complex: A multi-sport facility featuring soccer fields, softball fields, and sand volleyball courts.

Dining and Nightlife

Glendale’s dining scene offers a diverse range of options, from casual eateries to fine dining establishments. The Westgate Entertainment District, Historic Downtown Glendale, and Arrowhead Towne Center all feature a variety of restaurants, bars, and nightlife venues to suit a wide range of tastes and preferences.

Local Festivals and Events

Glendale hosts various festivals and events throughout the year that celebrate the city’s culture and community spirit:

– Glendale Jazz & Blues Festival: An annual event showcasing local and national jazz and blues musicians, as well as food vendors and art displays.
– Glendale Folk & Heritage Festival: A celebration of traditional folk music, storytelling, and crafts, held at the historic Sahuaro Ranch Park.
– Hometown Christmas Parade: An annual holiday event featuring floats, marching bands, and festive entertainment for the whole family.

Notable Residents

Some notable residents from Glendale include:

– Trent Franks, former U.S. Representative for Arizona’s 8th congressional district
– Paul LoDuca, former Major League Baseball catcher
– Jennie Garth, actress best known for her roles in “Beverly Hills, 90210” and “What I Like About You”

Sustainability and Environmental Initiatives

Glendale is committed to promoting sustainability and protecting the environment through various initiatives and programs:

– Glendale Green Living Program: This program encourages residents to adopt sustainable practices in their daily lives, such as recycling, conserving water and energy, and maintaining environmentally friendly landscapes.
– Water Conservation: The city offers resources and incentives to help residents save water, including free water audits, rebates for water-efficient devices, and educational workshops.
– Solar Energy: Glendale encourages the use of solar energy through its Solar Partnership Program, which provides technical assistance and financial incentives for residential and commercial solar installations.

For more information on Glendale’s sustainability initiatives, visit https://www.glendaleaz.com/sustainability/

Horseback Riding

Glendale offers several opportunities for horseback riding, with nearby equestrian centers and trails suitable for riders of all skill levels. Some popular options include:

– Thunderbird Conservation Park: As mentioned earlier, this park offers multi-use trails suitable for horseback riding, providing stunning views of the desert landscape.
– Ponderosa Stables: Located near South Mountain Park, Ponderosa Stables offers guided trail rides for riders of all ages and skill levels.

Off-road Trips

The surrounding desert landscape provides numerous opportunities for off-road enthusiasts to explore:

– Lake Pleasant Regional Park: Located about 30 miles northwest of Glendale, this park features over 23,000 acres of desert and mountain terrain, as well as miles of off-road trails suitable for ATVs, UTVs, and dirt bikes.
– White Tank Mountain Regional Park: As mentioned earlier, this park features over 30 miles of trails for off-road adventures, including designated trails for off-highway vehicles (OHVs).

Ranching and Farming

Glendale’s agricultural roots are still present in the community today, with several working ranches and farms that offer educational and recreational opportunities for visitors:

– Sahuaro Ranch Park: As mentioned earlier, this historic park features preserved ranch buildings and offers a glimpse into Glendale’s agricultural history.
– Tolmachoff Farms: A family-owned farm offering seasonal produce, a petting zoo, and special events such as a pumpkin patch and Christmas tree farm.

Wildlife and Nature

Glendale and the surrounding areas are home to diverse flora and fauna, offering opportunities for wildlife viewing and nature exploration:

– Desert Botanical Garden: Located in nearby Phoenix, this garden showcases a wide variety of desert plants, including cacti, succulents, and wildflowers. The garden also hosts special events, workshops, and educational programs throughout the year.
– Wildlife World Zoo, Aquarium & Safari Park: Situated in nearby Litchfield Park, this venue features over 600 species of animals, including exotic wildlife, an aquarium, and a safari park with interactive exhibits and animal encounters.

Libraries

Glendale is served by the Glendale Public Library system, which operates three branches within the city:

– Main Library: The largest branch, offering a wide range of materials, services, and programs for all ages, including a dedicated children’s area and a teen zone.
– Foothills Branch Library: This branch features a variety of materials, services, and programs, as well as a community meeting room and outdoor reading patio.
– Velma Teague Branch Library: Located in historic downtown Glendale, this branch offers a variety of materials, services, and programs in a cozy, neighborhood setting.

For more information about Glendale Public Library, visit https://www.glendaleaz.com/library/

Senior Services

Glendale offers a variety of programs and services for older adults:

– Glendale Adult Center: This facility provides a wide range of activities, classes, and services for adults aged 50 and older, including fitness classes, educational workshops, and social events.
– Dial-A-Ride: A transportation service for seniors and individuals with disabilities, providing door-to-door transportation within the city and to select destinations in neighboring communities.

Youth Services

Glendale is committed to supporting its younger residents through various programs and initiatives:

– Glendale Youth Project: This program offers a variety of services and activities for youth aged 10-17, including after-school programs, summer camps, and leadership development opportunities.
– Glendale Teen Court: A peer-led program that allows first-time juvenile offenders to be judged and sentenced by a jury of their peers, providing an alternative to the traditional juvenile justice system.

Volunteer Opportunities

Glendale offers numerous opportunities for residents to give back to their community through volunteer service:

– Glendale Volunteer Program: This program connects residents with volunteer opportunities within city departments, including parks and recreation, public safety, and neighborhood services.
– Glendale Community Volunteer Program: This program connects residents with volunteer opportunities at local nonprofit organizations, schools, and community events.

For more information about volunteer opportunities in Glendale, visit https://www.glendaleaz.com/volunteer/

Bike and Walking Trails

Glendale is home to several bike and walking trails that provide residents and visitors with opportunities for outdoor recreation and exercise:

– Skunk Creek Linear Park: This park features a paved multi-use trail that connects to the New River Trail, offering a continuous path for walking, running, and biking.
– Grand Canal Linear Park: This park features a paved multi-use trail that follows the Grand Canal, providing a scenic route for walking, running, and biking.

In conclusion, Glendale is a vibrant city that offers a high quality of life for its residents and visitors. With a rich history, diverse economy, and numerous amenities and attractions, Glendale is an ideal destination for those seeking a thriving suburban community with easy access to the natural beauty of the surrounding desert landscape.