Things To Do
Downtown Gilbert
Downtown Gilbert has many dining options, live entertainment, local shopping, plus a vibrant nightlife. Downtown Gilbert is home to Joe's BBQ, which will be served at the wedding reception.
Desert Botanical Garden
The Sonoran Desert features a plant palette that is unique from anywhere else in the world. The Desert Botanical Gardens is a "living museum" that is home to over 50,000 plants comprised of over 4,000 species that highlights the beauty and diversity of the Sonoran Desert!
Downtown Chandler
Breweries, Restaurants & Shops
Downtown Chandler Fine Art & Wine Festival
4th Annual Downtown Chandler Fine Art & Wine Festival Features paintings, bronzes, glass, stone, copper, clay sculptures, photography and jewelry. February 14th, 15th, 16th Hours 10am-5pm Admission $5 Free Parking
Hiking
The valley has a lot to offer when it comes to hiking. South Mountain, Camelback Mountain, The Superstition Mountains, and The San Tan Mountains are all in close proximity to Phoenix.
Canyon Lake
Less than an hour drive from Phoenix, Canyon Lake offers a peaceful haven from the sprawling city. You'll find stunning views of canyon walls, desert plants, and lots of wildlife. Keep an eye out for big horned sheep! You can cast a line, take a ride on the Dolly Steamboat, or just enjoy a scenic picnic!
Tumbleweed Park Recreation Center
Tumbleweed Park features exciting playgrounds, walking trails, athletic fields, volleyball courts, and will host Allison and Kevin's wedding reception! There is plenty of room for kids to run around and is home of the world famous Ostrich Festival! The indoor recreation center offers a fitness center, basketball courts, walking track, and other amenities.
Mill Avenue
Mill Ave is the first named street in Tempe. It gets its name from the historic Hayden Flower Mill which still stands today. The mill was built in 1874 by Charles C Hayden. Prior to its construction, Tempe was an unknown agricultural town founded by wheat farmers. The mill helped transform Tempe's economy as it attracted mill workers, blacksmiths, merchants, and more. Today Mill Ave serves as a hub for Tempe's economy, government, and nightlife. By day it is home to a number of restaurants, storefronts, and City Hall. By night it has helped Arizona State University earn its # 1 party school ranking in America.
Saguaro Lake
Similar to Canyon Lake, Saguaro lake offers fishing, recreation, and scenic views. The Butcher Jones Recreation Area is a great place for a picnic.
Golf
Phoenix is a destination for golf in the wintertime, though green fees can be steep in February. There is no short supply of courses in the Phoenix area, but Ocotillo Golf Club is an exquisite 27 hole course located 2 miles from Tumbleweed park that is characterized by it's number of man made lakes. A more affordable option is the City of Tempe's Ken McCdonald golf course. Arrangements could also be made with Jim Krupitzer to play "The Big Wick" at Wickenburg Ranch.
Wickenburg Ranch
Home to Jim and Shannon Krupitzer (father and mother of the groom), Wickenburg Ranch features 27 holes of Golf, a community swimming pool, hot tub, pickleball courts, friendly neighbors, and a "casita" reserved for only the most favorite relatives. Wickenburg Ranch is an hour and a half drive from Tempe, Arizona. Those wishing to claim a spot in the Casita/ Guest room/neighbors' guest rooms should contact Jim and Shannon.