What’s on your to-do list for 2019? For many of us, the new year offers us a chance to open ourselves up to new adventures. Here at Phoenix Fray, we’re all about showing you the best Phoenix has to offer. That’s why we’ve made this list of quintessential Phoenix activities to start your new year off right. The following list includes new, old, and classic activities that all Phoenix locals should do. Check out our list to start 2019 with a bang in the Valley of the Sun.

Take a Trip to the Churchill

Downtown Phoenix has seen a resurgence in recent years. Still, it always felt like it was missing a flagship attraction. That all changed when the Churchill opened last September. The Churchill is Phoenix’s first and only marketplace made of shipping containers. Located on First and Garfield, the massive marketplace is made of 19 repurposed shipping containers and encompasses over 14,000 square feet. Once inside, you’ll be greeted by a large courtyard and 10 locally owned bars, restaurants, and shops. With offerings ranging from cocktail bars to healthy eateries, the Churchill has quickly become one of Phoenix’s must-see attractions.

FrayLife Tip: Check out the full list of Churchill businesses in advance to plan your trip.

Spend a Night at Talking Stick

Photo Credit: Raquel Baranow [CC BY-SA 4.0 (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0)], from Wikimedia Commons

Phoenix is no stranger to luxury resorts. But no resort is as synonymous with Phoenix as Talking Stick Resort and Casino. From stamping its name on the Suns arena to its Vegas-style light display, it’s almost impossible to ignore it. After closing for six weeks last August due to monsoon flood damage, Talking Stick is back stronger than ever. It has table games, concerts, fine dining, and even a rooftop dance club for a fun night out. Don’t forget to hit the range at Topgolf. This driving range and entertainment center is located right across the street from the resort.

Hike Tom’s Thumb

You know you’re a Phoenician when your Instagram feed is flooded with pictures of hikes. By now, everyone and their mom has already hiked Camelback Mountain. The same goes for the ever-popular Piestewa Peak. Are you looking for a challenge? Take a hike of Tom’s Thumb instead. This strenuous 11-mile trek takes you on an adventure through the McDowell Mountains. After a 2,500-foot climb, you’ll find some seriously pretty views of the Valley. Just don’t forget an extra water bottle.

Go to a Phoenix Rising Game

Let’s be real: Arizona sports are a bummer. If you’re a lifelong Arizona sports fan, you’ve experienced your fair share of heartache. Arizona sports always seem to let us down (except, of course, for the legendary 2001 D-backs). Tired of 40-point blowouts at Suns games? Trying to forget about another ninth-inning collapse at Chase Field? Why not head to a Phoenix Rising game? This upstart soccer franchise took the Valley by storm when Didier Drogba and company arrived in early 2017. The Rising attract a fun, raucous crowd at the Phoenix Rising FC Soccer Complex, located right off the I-10 and 101. Did we mention they have dollar beer night? The Rising games can easily wash away the stench of our miserable sports franchises, at least for the evening.

Join a Sports League

It’s time to get in on the action. Phoenix Fray attracts thousands of local athletes to participate in fun recreational leagues year round. Are you looking to get your competitive juices flowing? You won’t want to miss flag football or sand volleyball. Want something a little more low-key? You can try your hand at kickball or dodgeball. Of course, there’s always cornhole and Skee-Ball leagues for those who enjoy sipping beer while competing. Whether you’re a former athlete or first-timer, there are leagues for everyone in 2019. Check out our Phx Fray Leagues for more information.

Want more #FrayLife approved activities? Check out 4 of the Most Fun Events in Phoenix You CANNOT Miss in 2019

View More Articles By John Kuells

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