The Fiesta Bowl happens every year at State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona.
While Glendale offers plenty of great options for lodging, entertainment and food, it is the 20.4 miles in between Sky Harbor Airport and State Farm Stadium that offers so much for out of town visitors.
Where to stay
Arizona offers a bevy of fantastic hotels, but if you are looking for luxury, you’ll be looking in the Phoenix, Paradise Valley, Scottsdale area, which can take you a little further away from the stadium, but puts you in the center of nightlife in Arizona. If you want to be a little closer to the Scottsdale area, there is another hotel row which gives you access to Old Town and all it has to offer.
Of course, closest to the Stadium offers a nice array of options, with four within walking distance of State Farm Stadium, and the Westgate Entertainment District, that offers all the dining and entertainment needed for a great Fiesta Bowl weekend.
What to do
Speaking of what it has to offer, Arizona offers the best golf in the country, and in the Glendale, Phoenix and Scottsdale area you can throw a stone and hit 10 courses.
The best part, you have options at all price points.
Want something expensive and impressive, check out Arizona Biltmore Golf Club, offering two courses to choose from.
Something more in the mid price points, Grand Canyon University has great golf at a more reasonable price.
Looking to shoot a quick nine on a public course, Palo Verde Golf Course or Encanto 9-Hole golf course could be an option.
Of course the best thing to do in Arizona is take advantage of the amazing hiking, where Piestewa Peak Trails offers some of the best hiking options in the valley and quite frankly the southwest.
Piestewa Peak offers all levels of trails, with some for beginners and some for those who are feeling a little more adventurous.
The key, make sure even in the winter you are hydrated and bring plenty of water for the trail. Make a day of it, bring a lunch, and enjoy the beautiful desert scenery.
Where to eat
Finally, if you are in Arizona for the Fiesta Bowl, but looking for a nice night out, make sure you check out Steak 44 or Ocean 44. They are fantastic group dining or if you are looking for something more intimate, but they will cost you.
Looking for something uniquely Arizona, checkout Bacanora in downtown Phoenix.
If you are wanting somewhere to pre-game and enjoy some delicious food and drinks before the game, Zipps Sports Grill, where there won’t be a colder beer found in the desert.
Enjoy the trip, enjoy the weather and enjoy a great week in Arizona.
