Westgate Entertainment District | Glendale

Westgate Entertainment District is a premier mixed-use development located in Glendale, Arizona, designed as a dynamic hub combining shopping, dining, entertainment, hospitality, and event spaces. Covering approximately 223 acres, Westgate is strategically positioned within Glendale’s Sports and Entertainment District, adjacent to major venues such as State Farm Stadium (home to the NFL’s Arizona Cardinals) and Desert Diamond Arena (home to the NHL’s Arizona Coyotes). This prime location makes Westgate a focal point for visitors attending sporting events, concerts, and other large-scale activities, drawing over 22 million visitors annually.

Layout and Design

Westgate is designed as an open-air, pedestrian-friendly district blending modern architecture with inviting outdoor spaces. Its layout encourages strolling through plazas, courtyards, and landscaped walkways, featuring fountains, art installations, and comfortable seating areas. A central feature is the WaterDance Plaza, which boasts a 60,000-gallon “dancing fountain” inspired by the famous Bellagio fountains in Las Vegas. This interactive water feature creates vibrant light and water displays synchronized to music, serving as a visual centerpiece and popular gathering spot.

Retail and Dining

The district offers a diverse selection of more than 20 retail, dining, and entertainment establishments that cater to a wide range of tastes and preferences. Retail options include specialty shops, candy stores like IT’SUGAR, and lifestyle boutiques. Dining options span casual to upscale, with popular venues such as Yard House, known for its extensive beer selection and American cuisine; Salt Tacos y Tequila, offering creative Mexican fare; Kabuki Japanese Restaurant, providing authentic Japanese dishes; Johnny Rockets, a classic American diner experience; and more.

Westgate also features AMC Westgate 20, the largest movie theater in Arizona, equipped with IMAX and 3D capabilities. This cinema attracts moviegoers with its state-of-the-art technology and premium viewing experiences, making it a key entertainment anchor within the district.

Entertainment and Events

Westgate hosts an active calendar of more than 250 events annually, transforming the district into a lively community space. Events include live music performances ranging from local bands to nationally recognized acts, car shows that showcase classic and exotic vehicles, fitness classes like yoga and Zumba held outdoors, and seasonal celebrations such as ice skating rinks during the winter months and holiday festivals.

The district’s vibrant nightlife includes multiple bars and lounges offering craft cocktails, live DJs, and social atmospheres. The combination of entertainment options makes Westgate a popular destination for both daytime visitors and nighttime crowds.

Hospitality and Accommodations

Supporting the influx of visitors to the Sports and Entertainment District, Westgate has developed a strong hospitality component. Since 2015, five hotels have been added to the area, including recognizable brands such as Home2 Suites by Hilton, Aloft Glendale, Marriott’s TownePlace Suites, Tru by Hilton, and Holiday Inn Express. These accommodations provide nearly 1,600 rooms collectively, offering convenient lodging options within walking distance of event venues and entertainment.

Plans are underway to expand hotel capacity further, with projections aiming to reach approximately 4,000 rooms in the coming years to support increasing tourism and events like the Super Bowl, college football championships, and major concerts.

Accessibility and Transportation

Westgate Entertainment District is highly accessible by car, located near the Loop 101 freeway and Glendale Avenue, facilitating easy access from across the Phoenix metropolitan area. The district provides extensive parking options, including structured garages and surface lots designed to accommodate large crowds during major events.

To ease internal movement within the Sports and Entertainment District, a free shuttle service known as the Westgate Circulator operates regularly, connecting visitors to key locations such as State Farm Stadium, Desert Diamond Arena, and parking areas. This service enhances visitor convenience and reduces traffic congestion during high-attendance events.

Community Impact and Economic Significance

Westgate Entertainment District plays a vital role in Glendale’s economy by generating significant tourism revenue and creating numerous jobs in retail, hospitality, and entertainment sectors. It serves as a year-round destination that sustains business beyond major sports events, fostering local economic stability and growth.

The district’s design and programming also promote community engagement by offering accessible public spaces for social gatherings, cultural events, and recreational activities. Westgate functions as both a local amenity and a regional attraction, enhancing Glendale’s profile as a vibrant sports and entertainment city.

Summary

Westgate Entertainment District stands as a comprehensive, modern mixed-use development blending retail, dining, entertainment, hospitality, and event spaces within Glendale’s Sports and Entertainment District. Its strategic location adjacent to major stadiums, combined with diverse amenities such as the dancing fountains, premium movie theater, extensive dining options, and multiple hotels, makes it a premier destination for visitors year-round. Through its dynamic events calendar, accessible transportation, and vibrant atmosphere, Westgate successfully integrates community life with large-scale entertainment, contributing substantially to the economic and cultural vitality of Glendale, Arizona.