Getting There
Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) is one of the most convenient major airports in the country, sitting just 3-4 miles from downtown Phoenix and both Chase Field and Footprint Center. The fastest option into the city is a rideshare or taxi, running roughly $15-30 and taking about 10-15 minutes under normal traffic. For budget travelers, the free PHX Sky Train connects terminals to the 44th Street/Washington Valley Metro Rail station, where a $2 light rail fare gets you downtown in about 20-30 minutes total.
Getting Around
Valley Metro Rail is a practical option for sports fans staying downtown, with direct stops serving both Chase Field and Mortgage Matchup Center along its expanded network connecting Phoenix, Tempe, and Mesa. However, Phoenix is an expansive, car-dependent city and a rental car is strongly recommended if you plan to explore beyond downtown or venture to suburbs like Scottsdale or Tempe. Uber and Lyft are widely available throughout the metro, but budget for surge pricing of $50-80 around major games and events.
Where to Stay
Downtown Phoenix is the clear first choice for a sports-focused trip, putting you within walking distance of both Chase Field and Footprint Center, with hotel rates typically ranging from $120-250 per night depending on season and events. The Roosevelt Row arts district, just north of downtown, offers a walkable mix of bars and restaurants and slightly more boutique hotel options. Avoid booking in Scottsdale or the suburbs if you're attending multiple games, as getting back downtown at night via rideshare can be costly and slow during peak hours. Spring Training visitors should note that Cactus League games are spread across the wider metro, so a car is essential if that's part of your itinerary.
Sports Fan Notes
Downtown Phoenix is a legitimately compact sports hub: Chase Field and Footprint Center are fewer than five minutes apart on foot, making it realistic to catch a Diamondbacks afternoon game and a Suns or Mercury evening game on the same day. The Suns have one of the NBA's most passionate home crowds, and the arena atmosphere for a playoff run is among the best in the West. Baseball fans will want to note that the Diamondbacks play in one of MLB's most unique ballparks, a venue with a retractable roof that makes summer games viable in the intense Arizona heat. The broader metro also hosts the NFL's Arizona Cardinals at State Farm Stadium in Glendale and the NHL's Utah Hockey Club (formerly Arizona Coyotes) relocated, so the two downtown venues covered in this guide represent the core of a very walkable sports weekend.
Venues in Phoenix
Global Credit Union Arena
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get from PHX to downtown Phoenix?
The fastest option is a rideshare (Uber/Lyft) or taxi, costing roughly $15-30 and taking about 10-15 minutes. For a budget option, take the free PHX Sky Train from your terminal to the 44th Street/Washington station, then connect to Valley Metro Rail for $2 — the full trip takes about 20-30 minutes. Note that light rail runs 18-22 hours per day, so late-night arrivals after a game should plan on a rideshare.
What is the best neighborhood to stay in Phoenix for a sports trip?
Downtown Phoenix is the top pick, full stop. Both Chase Field and Footprint Center are located there, and the area is walkable between venues. Staying downtown also gives you easy access to the Roosevelt Row bar and restaurant scene for pre- and post-game. Avoid hotels in Scottsdale or Tempe unless you specifically plan to spend time there, as rideshares back to downtown after evening games get expensive fast.
Which sports teams play in Phoenix?
The Arizona Diamondbacks (MLB) play at Chase Field, and the Phoenix Suns (NBA) and Phoenix Mercury (WNBA) both play at Footprint Center. Since Chase Field and Footprint Center are less than a five-minute walk apart in downtown Phoenix, it is entirely feasible to attend a Diamondbacks afternoon game and a Suns or Mercury evening game on the same day — a genuinely rare multi-sport opportunity for visiting fans.
Is Phoenix a World Cup 2026 host city?
No, Phoenix is not hosting any 2026 FIFA World Cup matches. The nearest host city is Los Angeles, California, which is approximately a 6-hour drive west or a short flight from PHX.
How do I get from PHX to downtown Glendale?
The fastest and most practical option is rideshare (Uber or Lyft), which covers the roughly 15-mile trip in about 25 to 35 minutes and costs approximately $40 to $55. Renting a car at PHX is also a strong option if you plan to explore the broader metro. Valley Metro bus service is available for around $2 but requires transfers and takes close to 90 minutes, making it impractical on game days.
What is the best neighborhood to stay in Glendale for a sports trip?
Stay in the Westgate Entertainment District, which sits directly adjacent to State Farm Stadium. Numerous hotels are within easy walking distance of the stadium, and the district itself has bars, restaurants, and nightlife for pre- and post-game activity. It is the most walkable, sports-focused pocket of Glendale and eliminates the need for a rideshare on game day.
Which sports teams play in Glendale?
The Arizona Cardinals (NFL) play their home games at State Farm Stadium in Glendale. The Cardinals are one of the oldest franchises in the NFL, and their stadium also hosts major events including the Fiesta Bowl, college football playoffs, and occasional Super Bowls.
Sports cities near Phoenix
Close enough to pair with a Phoenix trip — or to catch a game on the drive in.