Things To Do
in Glendale
Glendale, AZ is a dynamic Phoenix suburb known for its sports venues, historic districts, and diverse dining scene. The city blends Old Town charm with modern entertainment at Westgate and nearby shops, while desert landscapes frame day trips into the Sonoran Desert. Its Armenian community adds a distinct cultural flavor, reflected in neighborhood bakeries, markets, and eateries.
With temperate winters and hot summers, Glendale serves as a gateway to year-round outdoor adventures in the Valley of the Sun.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely stroll through the picturesque Brand Boulevard, lined with charming shops and cafes. Stop by the Glendale Historical Society for a glimpse into the city's rich past and its cultural heritage. Grab a fresh pastry and coffee from a local bakery to fuel your exploration.
After lunch at a quaint eatery, visit the historic Alex Theatre, an architectural gem offering guided tours that delve into its glamorous history. Spend some time at the Glendale Galleria, where you can shop for both unique finds and popular brands. Don't miss the nearby Americana at Brand, an outdoor shopping and entertainment complex that features a beautiful fountain show.
As the sun sets, enjoy a delightful dinner at one of the many restaurants at the Americana, offering a range of cuisines from classic American to Mediterranean. After dinner, catch a movie at the state-of-the-art AMC theater or relax in the park with live music performances. Wind down your day with a sweet treat from a local ice cream shop.
Begin your day with an invigorating hike in Griffith Park, one of the largest urban parks in North America. The trails offer stunning views of the Hollywood sign and the city skyline, making it a perfect spot for photography enthusiasts. Pack a light breakfast to enjoy at one of the scenic overlooks amidst the natural beauty.
Post-hike, visit the Griffith Observatory to learn about the cosmos and enjoy interactive exhibits. Take a moment to marvel at the observatory's stunning architecture and sweeping views of the Los Angeles basin. For lunch, picnic in the park or dine at nearby eateries that serve delicious sandwiches and salads.
As dusk approaches, catch a celestial show at the Griffith Observatory's planetarium, where you can explore the wonders of the universe. Alternatively, enjoy a quiet walk back through the park while the city lights begin to twinkle. Finish your day with a relaxing dinner at a restaurant in nearby Los Feliz, known for its trendy atmosphere and diverse menu.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-6 |
| 🛏️Hotel per night | $100-180 |
| 🚆Public transit day pass | $6-8 |
| 🛍️Groceries for a week | $40-80 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Vibrant cultural mix and diverse dining options
- Proximity to desert landscapes and year-round outdoor activities
- Very hot summers require heat precautions
- Traffic and parking can be challenging in peak times, especially near Westgate and stadium events
Places to Visit in Glendale
Visit one of these nice places.
Colorful storefronts, vintage signage, and tree-lined streets provide classic urban desert photography opportunities, especially during golden hour.
Wide desert panoramas and rugged rock textures ideal for wide-angle landscape shots.
Iconic desert silhouettes with cityscape backdrops—sunrise and sunset provide dramatic lighting.
Neon lights, architecture, and lively street scenes perfect for long-exposure photography.
Colorful murals and sculptures in a family-friendly setting for portrait and detail shots.
Food in Glendale
Glendale Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Grilled beef served on warm tortillas with cilantro, onions, and salsa; widely available at neighborhood taquerias and food trucks.
Must-Try!
A frybread-based dish topped with beans, meat, cheese, and veggies; a Southwest staple found at several local eateries and food trucks.
Skewered grilled meats served with soft Armenian flatbread, often accompanied by grilled vegetables and sauces.
Classic sweet pastries featuring pistachio, honey, and flaky pastry; readily available at bakeries and Middle Eastern markets.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market in downtown Glendale offering fresh produce, local cheeses, breads, and prepared foods; great for sampling street-style snacks and desserts.
Seasonal food trucks and street-food kiosks around Westgate Entertainment District offering tacos, shawarma, baklava, and mezze plates.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A firm handshake and polite eye contact are common in business and casual settings. English is the primary language, but Spanish and Armenian communities add linguistic variety in daily life.
Be mindful in places of worship and culturally significant sites; dress modestly when visiting religious or community centers.
Tipping norms align with national practice; tipping is appreciated for good service in hospitality and food service.
Safety
Tipping in Glendale
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, 15–20% of the pre-tax bill is standard; for delivery and small table services, 15–20% is typical. Taxis and rideshares commonly expect similar tips.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; digital wallets (Apple Pay, Google Pay) are common. Cash is still welcome, especially at markets and small vendors.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Expect extreme heat (often 100–115°F). Hydrate well, schedule outdoor activities in the early morning or late evening, and seek shade or air-conditioned venues for comfort.
Afternoon thunderstorms are common; watch for flash floods in washes and low-lying areas. Carry a light rain layer and check daily forecast before outdoor plans.
Mild days with chilly nights. Perfect for hiking and outdoor photography; pack a warm layer for evenings.
Pleasant temperatures and blooming desert flora; great for outdoor markets, hikes, and cultural events.
Comfortable temperatures and clear skies; ideal for city walks, photography, and outdoor dining.
Glendale at Night
Hiking in Glendale
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Iconic desert hike with city views; moderate to strenuous ascent suitable for experienced hikers.
Central Phoenix hike with a steady climb and rewarding skyline vistas.
Extensive network of trails through rugged desert terrain; suitable for day hikes and wildlife viewing.
Airports
How to reach Glendale by plane.
Major international gateway; roughly 20–25 minutes by car from central Glendale, depending on traffic.
Smaller regional airport serving several carriers; ~30–45 minutes from Glendale by car.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A sizable Armenian population with cultural centers, bakeries, and shops in Glendale.
A significant segment of residents with diverse cultural influences and Spanish-language services.
A broad base of families, professionals, and retirees in suburban neighborhoods.
A growing presence with varied cuisines and cultural offerings.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Arizona Cardinals play at State Farm Stadium in Glendale; game days offer food stalls, tailgating, and a distinctive stadium atmosphere.
Nearby arenas host basketball games and events; college teams from ASU and local schools contribute to the sports scene.
Desert courses around Glendale and the greater Phoenix area provide year-round golfing with scenic mountain backdrops.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Glendale.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Glendale offers numerous vegetarian-friendly options across cuisines; look for falafel, mezze plates, veggie burritos, hummus bowls, and salads. Ask for dairy-free substitutions and clarify if broths or sauces contain meat stock.