What if you want your bachelor party to have the Las Vegas vibe, the Las Vegas climate, and the Las Vegas nightlife… but you don’t actually want to be in Las Vegas?
We understand.
Las Vegas is overblown and overdone, and, well, we’re over it. It’s expensive and overcrowded, and not the most original choice for a modern bachelor party.
But there is an alternative. A mere four and a half(ish) hours from The Strip is Phoenix. And it has everything even the pickiest of bachelors could want.
Here’s why it’s the ultimate destination for you and your crew.
Firstly, being in the desert brings certain advantages. In The Valley of the Sun, Phoenix serves up year-round sunshine and warmth, so it doesn’t matter when you book your bachelor party; Phoenix is open year-round.
Secondly, who doesn’t love getting a two-for-one deal? When you head to Phoenix, you don’t just get one city; Scottsdale is a mere 20 minutes away and is home to a massive party vibe and legendary desert pool parties.
The area is also a total mecca for golf and boasts over 200 golf courses, and outdoor enthusiasts can get into everything the Sonoran Desert has to offer.
So what are the best, legendary bachelor party ideas Phoenix groom crews will love? Here’s how we recommend you spend your time.
Every awesome bachelor party itinerary starts with some killer daytime activities.
For the absolute daredevils, get your adrenaline fix by jumping out of a plane over the desert. Skydive Phoenix offers tandem dives for as little as $229.
For those who want to take to the skies in a more sedate fashion, a helicopter from West Wind Tours will whisk you away on a tour of the Grand Canyon.
On firmer ground, you can always head into the wild and hike Camelback Mountain, or take a camping trip to Cave Creek Regional Park. If that’s not wild enough, grab an ATV from Stellar Adventures and explore the desert off-road.
If you’re less than enthralled with discovering the great outdoors, Phoenix’s city side has plenty to offer, too.
For scoping out the area, hire an e-bike or e-scooter from Rides n’ Motion, with stores in both Phoenix and Scottsdale. Or, go for something on the boozy side, with a ride from Arizona Brewery Tours.
We also think Cobra Arcade Bar is worth a visit. Check out all the retro arcade games and relive your teenage years — but now with the benefit of legal drinks.
For food, we recommend Binkley’s Restaurant, which offers an award-winning multi-course tasting menu. There’s also The Arrogant Butcher, serving up steak, seafood, burgers, salads, and more with sauces and sides.
When the sun goes down, night owls can party in the Phoenix entertainment district. Check out a comedy show at Stand Up Live or see what’s playing at The Van Buren.
The Killer Whale Sex Club isn’t quite what it sounds like. This quirky bar offers sumptuous cocktails, loud music, and lots of fun. The Whining Pig is another Phoenix hot spot with craft beers and a decent food menu.
If you’re not finished yet and feel the need to tear up the dancefloor, the Monarch Theatre offers the best in electronic music. Gentlemen’s clubs Sugar 44 and Bourbon Street Circus let you finish off the night in a classy but decidedly adult fashion.
Let’s move on to Scottsdale. Remember, Phoenix and Scottsdale are a stone’s throw from one another, so feel free to mix up activities in both locations to craft your perfect itinerary.
A Scottsdale bachelor party won’t be boring. This spot is hugely popular for party-goers thanks to its bustling Old Town entertainment district and awesome activities.
In Old Town Scottsdale, an Arizona party bike is the only way to get around. Grab a beer, pedal your way through town, and discover the entertainment district.
Octane Raceway has everything you need for a go-karting fix. Or, why not try something completely different and channel your inner acrobat at Trapeze U?
Scottsdale is also home to some of the hottest pool parties in Arizona, so slip on your suit, grab a cocktail, and party on down at Maya Dayclub, The W Hotel, or Hotel Valley Ho.
Each venue boasts luxurious accommodations and gorgeous pools that transform into wild parties once a week. Go one step further and rent a private cabana with bottle service.
The city’s choice of golf courses cannot be ignored. With over 200 courses, this is the place to go if the groom-to-be likes to sink a few holes.
Troon North Golf Club is one of the top spots, as is Whisper Rock Golf Club. Both offer exclusive golfing experiences and group packages. TPC Scottsdale likewise offers two courses set in stunning scenery. However, if all this sounds like too much effort, head to Topgolf for a virtual golfing experience.
First in your Scottsdale night of fun, you’re going to need some food. We love Fogo de Chão Brazilian Steakhouse, with its all-you-can-eat buffet, and The Mission Old Town for delicious Latin food and cocktails.
Over in The Canal Club, find Cuban flavors thanks to the Havana-inspired menu and drinks, as you relax in a more ambient setting. Citizen Public House will likewise provide an upmarket drinking and dining experience.
When you’re done eating, it’s time to descend on the Scottsdale night scene, good and proper.
First, head over for karaoke at Geisha A Go Go in old-town Scottsdale and show off your singing skills (or lack thereof).
The Pretty Please Lounge serves fine cocktails while the DJ spins tunes. You could also rent a private booth and purchase bottle service at the huge Riot House bar and club. These venues rock into the small hours, so settle in for the night.
If you’re not quite done partying even then, Le Girls Gentlemen’s Club boasts more than 50 ladies to entertain you and the crew, with private suites, VIP shows, and Champagne service all on offer. Mind your attire, though; this place has a dress code.
Phoenix is an excellent place for a bachelor party. Thanks to the abundance of outdoor desert activities, over 200 golf courses, a thriving night scene, and nearby Scottsdale with its legendary pool parties, bachelor parties of all shapes and sizes will find something they love here.
If you’re stuck for bachelor party ideas, ask the groom what he would like to do. Think about the groom’s interests and hobbies and plan a party around those. Bachelor parties don’t have to be centered around drinking and partying. Instead, find something that everyone can enjoy.
Scottsdale is popular with bachelor parties thanks to its amazing party scene. The city is home to many wild pool parties, clubs, gentlemen’s clubs, and bars and restaurants. Additionally, the area is a golfing mecca and features over 200 courses.
It is the best man’s responsibility to plan the bachelor party. However, it is not unusual for him to get some help and input from those attending, including the groom.
A bachelor party should be held a few weeks before the wedding. Never hold the bachelor party the night before the wedding, as this runs a significant risk of causing problems on the wedding day, should anything go wrong.
Sorting out your best buddy’s bachelor party is a big responsibility that shouldn’t be taken lightly. After all, you want to make it a night — or weekend — the groom-to-be will never forget. Our team at The Groom Club is dedicated to making it easier. From choosing the right bachelor party supplies, the perfect location, and the best activities, we’ll help you ensure the groom has the ride of his life.
