The Phoenix metro area is huge, with many options for spending off time. Only a few of the local features follow, generally closer to base.

The Peoria Center for the Performing Arts is the home base for Theater Works, a nationally regarded local acting company.

Glendale Antiquing is a popular shopping activity for locals and tourists - Glendale is a noted antique center, with a number of local shops and experts.

Glendale also hosts the Glendale Chocolate Affaire, a great excuse to ... a local chocolate event featuring chocolates and chocolate covered or dipped fruits, breads, meats (yes, meats), and any other excuse... delicacy the local chocolatiers can think of. This festival is held in February, and is not only a draw for chocolate lovers, but wine lovers and romance lovers - romance authors and enthusiasts have a section of the Affaire to themselves, with panels, horse drawn carriages, and signings. There is also a family and children's track, with kid activities.

Glendale Glitters is a holiday season event (from the day after Thanksgiving to mid-January) in historic downtown Glendale where the city is lit up with festive decoration and holiday-related and wintery events, like the Winter Wonderland Snowfield, with guaranteed snow, horse carriage rides, and festival activities.

The West Valley Arts Council, based in Surprise, is a fine and performing arts promotional organization and venue for dance, drama, orchestra, children's' theater, summer camps, an apprenticeship program for permanent public art, and various arts education programs.

The Phoenix Art Museum presents static and performing arts from around the world.