All eyes will be on Greater Phoenix this February as one of the country's most celebrated sporting events kicks off at State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Ariz. As the nation's fifth-largest city, Phoenix is no stranger to hosting events of all sizes. The features of Greater Phoenix that helped the region score the Big Game four times since 1996 are the same as those that make the destination a winner for savvy event planners: unique venues, immersive experiences, solid infrastructure, convenient transportation, and abundant accommodations. So, whether it's a corporate retreat or an annual convention, here are five things all planners should know about Phoenix.
1. Immersive Venues
In addition to the 900,000-square-foot Phoenix Convention Center, Greater Phoenix is home to dozens of immersive venues designed to entertain, inspire, and engage. A few that are distinctly Phoenix include the internationally acclaimed Heard Museum, which is dedicated to the advancement of American-Indian art, the 50-acre Desert Botanical Garden, and Taliesin West (Frank Lloyd Wright's winter home).
2. After Hours
Downtown Phoenix invites your clients to experience the innovation and culture that make the city shine. Local tastemakers pair Sonoran Desert inspiration with expert techniques to deliver sublime creations at more than 200 downtown bars and restaurants. Or spend some time exploring Roosevelt Row, the city's walkable art district dotted with galleries and boutiques, as well as colorful murals blanketing building walls.
3. Infrastructure & Downtown Investments
The City of Phoenix has invested more than $1.2 billion over a three-year period in Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport renovations and improvements, including a new eight-gate concourse for Southwest Airlines, modern updates to Terminal 3, and a 2.5-mile PHX Sky Train extension to the Rental Car Center (fall 2022). Additionally, Phoenix has spent $6.5 billion on recent downtown revitalization investments.
4. Outdoor Exploration
With more than 300 days of sunshine annually and an average temperature of 72 degrees, Greater Phoenix is perfect for adding outdoor adventure to your event. Located in the heart of the Sonoran Desert, your clients will marvel at the towering saguaro cactuses and breathtaking mountain ranges that provide an endless source of recreation opportunities. From sunrise hikes to team-building excursions, one of the world's most vibrant and unique deserts adds bucket-list-worthy experiences to your itinerary.
5. Accommodations
Hotels and resorts in Greater Phoenix have completed more than $600 million in renovations over the past five years. Since March 2020, the area has welcomed 35 new hotel properties with more than 4,339 rooms and there are even more on the horizon. Your clients are never far from the experiences and venues that make Greater Phoenix a winner with thousands of rooms available within the walkable downtown core and even more sprawling throughout the region.
The Visit Phoenix professionals working to ensure the Big Game's success are the same group that's ready to get to work for you. Find out how to make your next event in Greater Phoenix a super-size victory.
