Surprise Stadium anchors a hub of family-friendly fun, from palate-pleasing restaurants to thrilling activities geared toward all ages.
As Major League Baseball fans know, Surprise Stadium is the Spring Training home of the Kansas City Royals and Texas Rangers, drawing big crowds in February and March. But the stadium doesn’t go dark after the last pitch is thrown. In fact, Surprise Stadium hosts a year-round calendar of youth sports tournaments, drawing families from around the country to explore Surprise. Surprise also hosts a variety of national tennis tournaments throughout the year at the award-winning Surprise Tennis & Racquet Complex. In town for a game, match or meet? Here’s where to stay, play and dine.
Where to Stay
Take your pick of several accommodations within a mile of the sports complex. At the Hilton Garden Inn, not only do guests enjoy free parking, free Wi-Fi, an on-site restaurant and a 24-hour snack shop, but kids will love splashing around in the heated pool.
You’ll also find a pool at Holiday Inn Express & Suites, as well as a full breakfast buffet (complimentary for kiddos) and roomy suites that comfortably fit the whole family.
Need more room? Look no further than Residence by Marriott. Designed for extended stays, the oversized guest rooms feature full kitchens, and the property offers a free hot breakfast, an on-site convenience store, dry cleaning services and daily housekeeping.
For a pet-friendly option that also includes free breakfast, check out the Hampton Inn & Suites Phoenix-Surprise. It’s only 3 miles from the sports complex and surrounded by tons of restaurants within walking distance.
Where to Eat
When it comes to dining, Surprise hits a grand slam. That’s because there are numerous locally-owned eateries that welcome families with a winning combination of spacious seating and delicious fare. Start the day off with a visit to Gathered Grounds, where baristas whip up yummy a.m. beverages like single-origin drip coffee, peanut butter and jam lattes and lavender cold brew chai teas.
For lunch, head to Oregano’s Pizza Bistro, which offers its famous Lunchbox Combo: two slices of cheesy Chicago-style pizza and a fresh salad.
Come dinner, there’s Bonfire Craft Kitchen and Tap House or State 48 Brewery. At Bonfire, everyone finds something to savor — whether it’s baby back ribs, beef brisket, a Buffalo hot chicken sandwich or one of its 11 burgers. State 48 invites guests to sample Arizona craft brews while indulging in wood-fired pizza and hot sandwiches sided by tots or fries.
Find a sweet conclusion to the day with a matcha cheesecake at Sumo Snow or grab a cocktail at The Toast Craft Kitchen & Cocktails.
Things to Do
Looking for things to do in Surprise between games? Unwind after an adrenaline-filled day of athletic activity by catching a flick at AMC Surprise Pointe. The cinema screens the latest blockbusters, including immersive experiences in its IMAX theater.
Or kick it up a notch at Uptown Alley, the city’s destination for one-stop entertainment. Think laser tag, arcade games, bowling and virtual reality experiences — and for adults, three bars serving specialty cocktails and craft beers.
For a one-stop shop of movies and endless entertainment, head to FatCats. Not only does it screen new-release movies in its theaters, it also has bowling, arcade games, glow golf and more.
Also near the stadium is Surprise Aquatic Center, which boasts water slides and zero-depth pools with water play features, and the Tennis & Racquet Complex, with kids and teen tennis, adult tennis and racquetball and pickleball courts.
Plan Your Itinerary
Make the most of your trip to Surprise by checking out the insider travel tips on our blog.