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Avondale is a city of about 90,000 people in the West Valley of metro Phoenix, about 17 miles west of downtown. It grew from a farming settlement and stage stop near the confluence of the Agua Fria and Gila rivers, incorporated in 1946, and expanded quickly in recent decades as new neighborhoods spread across former cotton and vegetable fields.
The city is best known for Phoenix Raceway, a one-mile oval at the southern edge of town that has hosted major NASCAR and IndyCar racing since the 1960s. Old Town Avondale along Western Avenue keeps the community's older character, with long-established Mexican-American businesses, murals and community events.
For outdoor time, the Base and Meridian Wildlife Area protects riverbottom habitat on the Gila River, while Friendship Park and Festival Fields offer sports, lawns and events. The Estrella Mountains, Litchfield Park and the attractions of downtown Phoenix are all a short drive away.
A one-mile oval at the foot of the Estrella Mountains that has hosted motor racing since 1964 and draws big crowds on NASCAR weekends. Renovations added modern grandstands and a fan zone in the infield. Buy tickets early for race weekends, bring sun protection and plan extra time for traffic.
The original commercial heart of Avondale along Western Avenue, with older storefronts, murals, Mexican restaurants, bakeries and small shops serving a long-established community. The city holds events and markets here through the cooler months. Visit at lunchtime and try a local taqueria or panaderia.
A state wildlife area along the Gila River at the southern edge of Avondale, named for the survey point from which much of Arizona was mapped. Its riverbottom woodland and wetlands attract herons, hawks and songbirds. Bring water and binoculars, and visit early in the morning when birds are most active.
One of Avondale's largest parks, with lighted sports fields, a playground, ramadas and walking paths. It is busy with youth soccer and baseball and a good place for a picnic on a mild winter day. Shaded ramadas can be reserved; in summer come in the early morning or evening.
A large city park near Avondale's civic center that hosts community festivals, concerts and holiday events, with sports fields, open lawns and a playground. Check the city calendar for festival dates. Outside of events it is a relaxed spot for a walk or for kids to play.
A large indoor sports complex with many basketball and volleyball courts that hosts regional tournaments and leagues throughout the year. Visitors often come for youth events. It is also a useful air-conditioned option for active families during the hot summer months.
An outdoor shopping center near I-10 and Avondale Boulevard with national stores, big-box retailers and a wide range of chain restaurants. It is a convenient stop for a meal and supplies before or after events at Phoenix Raceway, and stays lively in the evenings.
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Log in to add photosPhoto: Marine 69-71, Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0
Photo: Marine 69-71, Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0
Photo: Winston1085, Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 3.0
Photo: Don Ramey Logan, Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 3.0
Photo: Senior Airman Devante Williams, Wikimedia Commons, Public domain
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Photo: Marine 69-71, Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0
Photo: Marine 69-71, Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0
Photo: Marine 69-71, Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0
Photo: Marine 69-71, Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0
Photo: Marine 69-71, Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0
Photo: Marine 69-71, Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0
Photo: Marine 69-71, Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0
