Things to do / Travel Guide
Cultural events can be found in most of the big cities of southern Arizona, but the region's heart is clearly in its Old West heritage. So take in a classical music concert or head for one the many bars and clubs while you're relaxing in Phoenix or Tucson, but don't miss the fun of a Wild West stunt show either.
Entertainment around Phoenix and Scottsdale
Phoenix's downtown area, called Copper Square, is the place to head for entertainment. The Square's 90 blocks are crammed with theatres, museums, restaurants, and nightclubs. This is where you'll find Symphony Hall for classical music concerts, opera, and ballet and the Orpheum Theatre for Broadway musicals. The Dodge Theatre and the Herberger Theatre Center are two popular venues for contemporary singing artists, comedians, and lunchtime theatre productions. These theaters bring in all the big name bands and artists, from Lynyrd Skynyrd, to Ben Harper, to Melissa Etheridge.
If after a full day of hiking and touring you have the time and energy for only one nightclub, the buzz is to head for nearby Scottsdale and the metropolitan area's number one night spot: The Buzz. This labyrinth of bars and dance floors hosts a renowned all-night dance-a-thon happening. After you strut your stuff you can chill out in the club's walk-in humidor.
A trendier crowd dances the night away at the Shaker Room above the Martini Ranch. Wear black, and not jeans, if you want to get past the bouncer. This place is more chic than its downstairs cousin with lots of martinis and live DJs.
Entertainment around Tucson
You can catch classical music concerts and theatre and dance performances at one of the theatres located on the University of Arizona campus. Or you can head to the Tucson Convention Center's Music Hall, where Ballet Arizona, the Tucson Symphony, and Arizona Opera Company perform.
Tucson's nightlife is mainly centered in two places: the Downtown Arts District, which has several nightclubs to choose from, and the University of Arizona campus, which has an ample supply of bars and clubs to keep students and visitors happy. For something different, head a few blocks north of downtown and check out El Mariachi, where you'll be serenaded by the renowned International Mariachi America. The band performs at the supper club, which serves Mexican food on Wednesday through Sunday - it's wise to book a reservation ahead of time.
Once used as a movie studio where Western-film stars such as John Wayne, Jimmy Stewart, Gene Autry, and Ronald Reagan walked down the dusty streets, Old Tucson Studios is now a theme park that recreates life in the Old West. A fire in 1997 destroyed most of the old Hollywood sets, but the reconstructed site still has plenty to offer, including saloon musicals, blazing gunfights (staged by stunt performers), and studio tours. You can also take a guided ride down the desert trails where many a Hollywood star rode off into the sunset. If you get hungry and thirsty, there are several restaurants and saloons that will take care of you in Western style. They are open daily during the day, prices are about $15 per person.
Rawhide at Wild Horse Pass
The “Wild West” comes alive at Arizona's largest western-themed attraction, which is located in the scenic Sonoran Desert, outside of Phoenix. If you can make it past the gunfights and stunt shows put on by the Rawhide Roughriders, there are also calmer activities to enjoy, such as a stagecoach ride through the desert, burro rides for the kids, and live country music. Or you can test your marksmanship at the shooting gallery and your cowboy skills on the mechanical bull.
If anyone in your party gets too rambunctious, take advantage of “Arrest-a-Guest,” where Rawhide's sheriff will throw the young scoundrels behind bars. If they're lucky, they'll convince Rawhide's judge of their innocence so that they can enjoy a Sundown Cookout before everyone heads home.
|
|
|