Tucked away in Arizona’s stunning Sonoran Desert, Goodyear is more than just a Phoenix suburb—it’s a sun-drenched playground with wide-open skies, rugged mountain views, and surprises around every cactus.
Whether you’re a sports fanatic, outdoor enthusiast, or just looking for a chill desert escape, this city delivers big time.
From spring training baseball to scenic desert hikes and mouthwatering Southwestern eats, we’re revealing the absolute best things to do in Goodyear, Arizona.
Get ready to explore secret trails, cheer on future MLB stars, and soak up that golden Arizona sunshine. Let’s hit the ground running!
1. Goodyear Ballpark – Best Overall for Sports Fans & Family Fun
Calling all baseball lovers! Goodyear Ballpark is where future MLB legends sharpen their skills during spring training.
Home to both the Cleveland Guardians and Cincinnati Reds, this state-of-the-art stadium offers an intimate, fan-friendly experience you won’t get at massive big-league parks.
The vibe here is pure Arizona—sunny skies, affordable tickets ($15-$30!), and the chance to snag autographs from rising stars. Even if you’re not a die-hard fan, the energy is contagious.
Grab a classic ballpark hot dog (they’ve got vegan options too!), kick back on the grassy berm, and enjoy America’s favorite pastime with the Estrella Mountains as your backdrop.
Pro tip: Arrive early for the Best Seats in the House promotion—sometimes you can upgrade to premium spots for just a few bucks!
2. Estrella Mountain Regional Park – Best for Hiking & Desert Views
Want to experience the real Arizona wilderness? Estrella Mountain Regional Park is your golden ticket. With over 20,000 acres of pristine Sonoran Desert, this place is a hiker’s paradise.
The Gadsden Trail (5.5 miles round-trip) serves up jaw-dropping valley views, while the shorter Butterfly Trail is perfect for families.
Mountain bikers, bring your wheels—the competitive track here hosts regional races. And photographers? Sunrise turns the desert into a pink-and-gold masterpiece.
Just remember your water (it’s the desert, folks!) and keep an eye out for roadrunners zipping between the saguaros.
3. Goodyear Community Park – Best for Families & Budget-Friendly Fun
Where do locals go for free, low-key fun? Goodyear Community Park delivers with its massive playground, splash pad (a lifesaver in summer!), and shaded picnic areas.
The walking paths wind through lush landscaping—rare for the desert—and there’s even a fishing pond stocked with catfish.
Weekends often bring food truck gatherings and outdoor concerts under the stars. Pack a lunch, bring the kids’ scooters, and enjoy small-town Arizona at its best.
4. Palm Valley Golf Club – Best for Golfers & Scenic Greens
Fairway fanatics, rejoice! Palm Valley Golf Club offers 36 holes of championship golf with postcard-worthy mountain views.
The Lakes Course challenges precision players with water hazards, while the Palms Course keeps things friendly for beginners.
Non-golfers can still enjoy the sunset views from the patio at The Grill, where the prickly pear lemonade is a must-try.
Twilight rates (after 2 PM) make this a steal for budget-conscious players.
5. Wild Horse Pass Motorsports Park – Best for Adrenaline Junkies
Got a need for speed? Wild Horse Pass Motorsports Park lets you test your limits with drag racing, drifting events, and even a road course for amateur drivers.
Check their calendar for “Test & Tune” nights—where anyone can race their own car down the quarter-mile strip.
Even spectators get a thrill watching nitro-fueled dragsters hit 300+ mph. Earplugs recommended!
6. Goodyear Farmers Market – Best for Foodies & Local Flavors
Every Saturday morning, the Goodyear Farmers Market transforms the Civic Square into a food lover’s paradise.
Think just-picked dates, locally roasted coffee, and homemade tamales wrapped in corn husks.
Vegans rave about the jackfruit tacos, while honey fans stock up on wildflower varieties.
Chat with the farmers—many are third-generation Arizona growers with stories as rich as their produce.
7. Tres Rios Wetlands – Best for Birdwatching & Kayaking
A hidden oasis just 20 minutes from Goodyear, Tres Rios Wetlands is where the desert meets the water.
Kayak through quiet marshes teeming with herons, or hike the 3-mile Overbank Trail for glimpses of beavers and bobcats.
Spring brings migratory birds by the thousands—binoculars are a must. It’s the perfect escape when you need a break from the desert heat.
8. Goodyear Recreation Campus – Best for Active Families
This 52-acre wonderland has something for every age: skate park, splash pad, batting cages, and even a fishing lake.
The FitPod outdoor gym lets you pump iron with mountain views, while the dog park ensures Fido gets exercise too.
Check their schedule for free outdoor movie nights—nothing beats watching a film under the stars with the Estrella Mountains twinkling in the distance.
9. Litchfield Park Historical Society – Best for History Buffs
Just a quick drive away, this charming museum reveals how Goodyear’s agricultural roots shaped modern Arizona.
See vintage photos of cotton farms (the city’s namesake!), and learn how WWII pilots trained here.
The heritage rose garden out back smells heavenly in spring. A quiet, fascinating stop between adventures.
10. Coldwater Golf Club – Best for Budget-Friendly Golf
Another gem for golfers, Coldwater offers affordable rates without skimping on desert beauty.
The 18-hole course winds around natural washes, with the signature 14th hole requiring a precise shot over water.
Afternoon specials often include $35 rounds with cart—a steal for well-maintained Arizona golf.
11. Skyline Regional Park – Best for Panoramic Hikes
For 360-degree desert vistas, hike Skyline’s 7-mile loop. The higher you climb, the more breathtaking the views of the Phoenix Valley.
Dawn and dusk are prime times to spot desert wildlife like javelinas.
Pro tip: The first Saturday of each month offers guided night hikes—a magical way to experience the desert after dark.
12. The Park at Palm Valley – Best for Concerts & Community Events
This sprawling green space hosts Goodyear’s biggest events, from summer jazz festivals to holiday light displays.
The interactive splash pad (with giant bucket dumps!) keeps kids cool, while adults lounge under misting trees.
Check their calendar—you might catch a free outdoor yoga class or a classic car show under the palms.
Final Thoughts
From big-league baseball thrills to secret desert trails, Goodyear, Arizona, packs a punch far beyond its size.
Whether you’re here for a weekend or a season, these 12 unforgettable experiences prove this desert city is anything but ordinary.
So what’s first on your list? Lace up those hiking boots, grab your sunscreen, and dive into the best things to do in Goodyear, Arizona! The adventure starts now—which spot will you explore first?