Things to Do in Peoria Arizona
Surrounded by the scenic landscape of the Sonoran Desert, the greater Peoria area is recognized for its abundance of outdoor recreational opportunities and diverse attractions.
The Challenger Space Center—recognized as one of the five biggest in the U.S.—offers exciting space-based opportunities within a modern learning environment. Schools, families, senior citizens, corporate groups and other visitors are invited to participate in a variety of space-related activities, such as simulated space flight missions, stargazing, space camps, informational lectures, telescope classes, space storytelling and more.
Recreation enthusiasts flock to Lake Pleasant in Peoria. The lake is one of the most scenic water recreational areas in Arizona. The 23,662-acre Lake Pleasant Regional Park offers around 10,000 acres of water perfect for an assortment of activities, such as waterskiing, jet-skiing, sailing, fishing and boating. In addition, Lake Pleasant is equipped with more than 140 developed campgrounds designed to accommodate both RV and tent camping. Hiking trails, wildlife viewing, picnic areas and breathtaking views complete the Lake Pleasant experience. Don’t forget to bring cameras to capture the wildlife, desert plants and outstanding vistas.
The Turf Soaring School introduces thousands of people annually to the unique adventure of glider flight. A sailplane is towed up into the sky, where, upon release, a certified instructor demonstrates several basic flying techniques. After the quick tutorial, the prepared rider is given the opportunity to take control and experience first-hand the unmatched feeling of personal flight. Lessons are also offered to obtain a private glider pilot’s license.
Peoria residents and visitors are also afforded the convenience of multiple shopping and dining destinations within the community. Finding the perfect meal or everyday essentials for home or work could not be easier.
Arrowhead Entertainment District offers an eclectic lineup of dining. The area has one of the highest concentrations of restaurants in the region. On the west side of 83rd Avenue and south of Bell Road is Arrowhead Fountain Center, where you’ll find more than 20 restaurants that span every ethnicity, style and price range. One of Arrowhead Fountain Center’s most unique restaurants is SKYE, which presents gourmet dining, nightclub entertainment and dancing in a sophisticated contemporary setting. For a south of the border experience, try the Salty Señorita, which has entertainment such as playing volleyball outside, as well as live music.
Park West, located on Northern Avenue just west of the Loop 101, offers more than 50 specialty retailers, a variety of restaurants including Fleming’s Steakhouse and frequent special events. Its open-air design includes two beautiful parks and outdoor fireplaces. Shoppers can relax by the tree-lined streets and beautifully designed reflecting pools and architecture.
In Northern Peoria at 99th Avenue and Happy Valley Road, you will find new retail shopping and restaurants at the Lake Pleasant Towne Center and Lake Pleasant Pavilion. The area is abundant in national stores such as Kohl’s, Target, Best Buy, Sports Chalet, Marshalls, Ross and Pier One, and restaurants include Paradise Bakery, Rubios, El Pollo Loco and more.
Arrowhead Crossing and Arrowhead Towne Center, located east of Loop 101 and Bell Road, offer a mix of popular retailers, boutiques and restaurants. You will find more than 200 shops and restaurants featuring any ethnicity, style and price range for the food you desire.
Interspersed throughout Peoria is a collection of shops, boutiques, many auto dealerships, restaurants, banks, food stores and service providers. If you need it—Peoria has it! Check out the membership directory in the back of this publication for names, addresses and phone numbers.
ACCOMMODATIONS
With nearly 500 rooms available, visitors have no shortage of lodging facilities to choose from in Peoria. Casual motels to luxurious resorts and everything in between provide accommodations to suit the taste of nearly any traveler. Please call the Peoria Chamber for referrals to meet your needs or go to www.peoriachamber.com.
The newest resort in Peoria is Cibola Vista. This luxury vacation ownership resort and hotel is located on the north end of the city, near Lake Pleasant, with ample opportunities to waterski, race boats, fish and have a fun day in the sun. Cibola Vista has highly upscale lodging, two pools and a full-service spa.
Wigwam Resort has 463 acres, 331 resort suites and casitas, multiple pools, 54 holes of championship golf and restaurants. Located just 10 minutes from Peoria and 25 minutes from Sky Harbor Airport, the Wigwam has received multiple recognition awards and is the holder of the prestigious AAA 4-Diamond Award.
For more information on Peoria attractions and accommodations, visit the Peoria Chamber of Commerce Web site at www.peoriachamber.com or call the Peoria Chamber at 1-800-580-2645.