Sports are a huge part of American culture, with millions of people following major leagues like the NFL, NBA and MLB. Although Arizona is know for its stunning array of natural wonders such as the Grand Canyon, it also has a thriving sports scene with many people betting on their favourite teams and players throughout the year. With this in mind, let’s profile the best places to bet and watch sporting events near or in Arizona.
The Sports Scene in Arizona
People in Arizona have a love for sports, with teams like the Arizona Cardinals, Phoenix Suns, and Arizona Diamondbacks dominating the NFL, NBA, and MLB. There is also an appreciation for niche sports in Arizona, such as golf, MMA, NASCAR, rodeo, and pickleball. As Arizona has a very warm climate for many days in the year, sports fans can happily attend outdoor sporting events without having to worry about the rain with like-minded people. However, sports fans who haven’t snagged a ticket to a sporting event can also join in on the fun by placing free bets while streaming the game and having a cold drink in a fancy sports bar.
In terms of legalities in Arizona, retail sportsbooks are allowed to open at racing arenas or sports venues. Native American casinos in Arizona have been approved to operate retail sportsbooks, as the state lacks any commercial retail casinos. Online sportsbooks are also available, offering a wide range of sports wagers, including college games and bowl games. The only restriction is that Arizona bettors cannot place prop bets on college sports, regardless of the teams.
Best Places to Enjoy Sports Events and Betting in Arizona
Casino Arizona
Casino Arizona is a haven for sports fans, situated in Scottsdale. This venue stretches over 100,000 square feet with a huge catalogue of gaming options, including 1,400 slot machines, live blackjack, poker, and bingo. For sports enthusiasts, the CAZ Sports Bar features a sportsbook with multiple betting windows and kiosks, where you can place your bets confidently on your beloved teams amidst an electrifying environment that matches the intensity of the games you’re watching. You can also grab a bite to eat in Cholla Prime Steakhouse & Lounge, Eagles Buffet, Willows Restaurant, Salt River Café, or the Arizona Room Patio Grill, all situated within the casino establishment.
DraftKings Sportsbook at TPC Scottsdale
Located in Scottsdale, DraftKings Sportsbook at TPC Scottsdale extends over 13,000 square feet with 3,400 square feet of video walls, 32 betting kiosks, and 390 seats. Visitors can watch popular US sports on the big screen, such as NFL, NBA, and MLB games, as well as college football and golf. To have an even better experience, there’s also the possibility to get a drink at the bar or enjoy a hearty meal, all within a modern setting with cabanas and fire pits. The most popular food at DraftKings Sportsbook is the signature steak and fries, which has become a fan favourite for those looking for a satisfying meal while watching the game. For drinks, patrons often opt for the craft cocktails or the wide selection of local beers on tap.
Chase Field Stadium
Home of the Arizona Diamondbacks, Chase Field Stadium is the perfect place to watch major baseball games. Located in downtown Phoenix, Arizona, the field was opened in 1998 with its state of the art retractable roof. The venue also has merchandise stands where you can passionately show your love for a specific team. Although the stadium primarily hosts baseball matches, you can also engage with other sports here such as Supercross, Monster Truck racing, soccer and football.
State Field Stadium
State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona, is a world-class venue known for its interesting design, featuring a retractable roof and a rolling field that can be moved in and out of the stadium. It’s home to the Arizona Cardinals and hosts a variety of sports, including NFL games, college football, soccer, and even events like the Super Bowl. The stadium also serves as a hub for concerts, motorsports, and large-scale entertainment. Its seating capacity of 63,400 has made it an iconic landmark for both sports fans and event-goers in Arizona.
Final Thoughts
Ultimately, sports such as football, basketball, and baseball are popular in the US, attracting millions of spectators and bettors every year. This is particularly relevant in Arizona, which is home to many stadiums that host sports events as well as bars and restaurants where you can place sports bets in comfort. As the demand for sports grows in Arizona, it’s likely that there will be even more venues popping up in Arizona and in the rest of the U.S. for sports enthusiasts. So, if you ever find yourself in Arizona and are a fan of sports, why not check out one of these locations?
