The Footprint Center, located in the heart of downtown Phoenix, stands as a dynamic hub for live entertainment, professional sports, and large-scale events. Its central location makes it a natural gathering point for fans, tourists, and locals alike, especially those looking to enjoy everything downtown Phoenix has to offer.
From NBA and WNBA games to concerts by chart-topping artists, the Footprint Center consistently delivers standout moments that energize the city. But just beyond the arena doors lies a broader experience: vibrant cocktail lounges, acclaimed dining, cultural hotspots, and historical sites—all contributing to Phoenix’s growing reputation as a destination for immersive nightlife and local culture.
Headline Events at the Footprint Center
Phoenix Suns Home Games
The Phoenix Suns bring basketball fans from across Arizona to the Footprint Center for high-energy, high-stakes matchups. With a passionate fanbase and a team stacked with talent, game nights transform downtown into a celebration of sport, complete with pre-game buzz and after-hours excitement.
Major Concerts and Touring Shows
Global recording artists regularly headline at the Footprint Center, thanks to its modern acoustics and high-capacity layout. From pop superstars to classic rock legends, the venue’s entertainment calendar remains packed year-round.
Phoenix Mercury Games
As one of the top teams in the WNBA, the Phoenix Mercury bring competitive women’s basketball to the spotlight. Games are community-focused, inclusive, and family-friendly—an important fixture in Phoenix’s sports culture.
Touring Events & Entertainment Shows
Beyond sports and music, the venue also features a rotating roster of large-scale events—think stand-up comedy specials, Cirque du Soleil, WWE wrestling, and Disney on Ice. These events offer something for every age and interest.
Top Local Attractions Near the Footprint Center
Exploring the area around the Footprint Center reveals a curated mix of local attractions, craft cocktail destinations, and cultural landmarks that elevate any downtown outing.
Barter & Shake’s Award-Winning Cocktail Experiences
Barter & Shake’s unique cocktail concepts have become must-visit destinations in downtown Phoenix. Each location tells a story through décor, atmosphere, and world-class mixology:
- UnderTow transports guests into the belly of an 1860s spice-trading ship.
- Century Grand reimagines the golden age of travel with immersive train car lounges.
- Platform 18 offers vintage railcar escapism with a Prohibition-era twist.
- Sunny’s Lounge and Grey Hen Rx deliver innovation, elegance, and intimacy with narrative-rich menus and sophisticated design.
These cocktail bars go beyond traditional nightlife. They’re immersive, theatrical, and built for memory-making.
Roosevelt Row Arts District
A short walk or light rail ride from the arena, Roosevelt Row is Phoenix’s most vibrant creative district. Public art murals, local galleries, coffee shops, and indie boutiques make it ideal for daytime exploration or an early evening stroll.
Arizona Science Center & Heritage Square
For a dose of daytime culture, the Arizona Science Center offers hands-on exhibits and IMAX screenings. Nearby, Heritage Square showcases Victorian-era architecture and houses the Rosson House Museum—perfect for those who appreciate local history.
Dining & Sports Double-Header at Chase Field
Just a few blocks away is Chase Field, home of the Arizona Diamondbacks. With the Footprint Center and Chase Field in close proximity, Phoenix is one of the few downtowns where fans can catch both an NBA and MLB game in one day—making it a haven for sports enthusiasts.
How to Get Around Downtown Phoenix
Navigating downtown is simple. The Valley Metro Light Rail system connects most major attractions, and many venues are walkable from hotels and bars. Ride-shares, bike rentals, and scooter stations offer added convenience for getting from the Footprint Center to other local destinations.
