2017 Spring Training Guide: Mesa, Chandler, Gilbert

Ak-Chin Southern Dunes Golf Club - Mesa, Chandler, Gilbert Spring Training Golf Guide
Ak-Chin Southern Dunes Golf Club

Golf in the East Valley & South

Ak-Chin Southern Dunes Golf Club (Maricopa) This Troon-managed desert oasis is worth the 30-minute drive south of Phoenix on I-10. Fred Couples teamed with the Schmidt-Curley design team to create one of the area’s most intriguing layouts. Instead of a traditional target-style desert course, it plays more like a Scottish-style links—that is, without the rain. No real estate hugs the fairways, which means natural beauty as far as the eye can see. Ak-Chin also has weekend group and private lessons, as well as a novel dynamic pricing system. The rates change daily, based on demand, which can save you money in the end. akchinsoutherndunes.com; 480-367-8949.

Longbow Golf Club  (Mesa) This course is a 20-minute drive from Sloan Park and HoHoKam Stadium, so you can play 18 and make the first pitch in the same day. This course, consistently ranked as one of the top in the state, is ideal for a group of mixed level players. From novices to the skilled, golfers will enjoy the rolling and generous fairways. The undulations and deep bunkers will give you something to talk about in the picturesque outdoor patio at the clubhouse. longbowgolf.com; 480-807-5400.

Las Sendas Golf Club (Mesa) It will be tough to keep your eye on the ball at Las Sendas with views of the Phoenix skyline, Superstition and Red Mountains. This Robert Trent Jones course is also home to the Malaska Golf Academy. Mike Malaska, PGA golf instructor of the year, will get inside your head to help you figure out the how and the why of your game. lassendas.com; 480-396-4000

Joy Ride Taco House
Joy Ride Taco House

Bobby Q Roll up your sleeves for authentic barbeque brisket, jumbo Texas ribs, pulled pork and “smoasted” smoked and roasted chicken. A local favorite since 2005- bobbyqmesa.com

Arizona Brewery Tours Put away the car keys and sit back for a craft brewery tour and tasting of the area’s top beer makers. You’ll visit Arizona Wilderness Brewery and Mesa’s own Desert Eagle on Main Street, as well as the Beer Research Institute. azbrew.com

Joy Ride Taco House This place will make you smile (or is it the margaritas?). Joyride is an ideal spot to quench your thirst and tame your tummy on game day. The patio is the perfect place to dig into a bandit taco platter of chicken tinga, carne asada and carnitas. joyridetacohouse.com

The Orange Patch. Squeeze in some time for a tour and tasting at this citrus farm. orangepatch.com

Queen Creek Olive Mill This working olive orchard, mill and restaurant is a rare stateside treat. queencreekolivemill.com

Windmill Winery Step back in time with a glass of wine at this rural farm and winery. thewindmillwinery.com

Usery Mountain Regional Park & Nature Center Hike through the lower Sonoran Desert and marvel at the Wind Cave Trail and the hanging gardens.  maricopacountyparks.net/park-locator/usery-mountain-regional-park


2017 Arizona Spring Training Guide to Golf

Golf Directory and Mileage Chart

Central: Scottsdale, Phoenix, Tempe

West: Goodyear, Surprise, Peoria

East: Mesa, Chandler, Gilbert

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