Beyond the Backyard: A Guide to the Perfect East Valley Weekend
One of the most important questions I get from families thinking about moving to the East Valley isn’t about square footage or school ratings. It’s a question that’s simpler and, honestly, far more important. They lean in and ask, “But what do you do here on the weekends?”
It’s a brilliant question. Because a home isn’t just a place to sleep; it’s a home base for the life you want to live. They see the beautiful houses and hear about the great schools, but they want to know what life feels like on a Saturday morning. They want to picture their family’s future, and that future is painted in the colors of weekend adventures, farmers markets, and evenings spent exploring their community.
When we first moved here from Iowa and Tennessee, the sheer variety of lifestyles available was what made us fall in love with the area. It’s why we chose to raise our family here. On any given weekend, you can have a wholesome, suburban family adventure, a sophisticated foodie experience, or a rugged outdoor escape—all within a few miles of your front door. This isn’t just a place to live; it’s a place to live fully.
So, I thought it would be fun to put together a few of my favorite “Choose Your Own Adventure” weekend itineraries. Whether you’re a family new to town or a long-time resident looking for some fresh ideas, here’s a little taste of what makes life in the East Valley so special.
Quick Answer Summary
What are the best family-friendly weekend activities in the East Valley? The East Valley excels at family fun. A perfect family weekend could include visiting the Gilbert Farmers Market, playing at a large-scale community park like Mansel Carter Oasis Park, having a casual dinner at Joe’s Farm Grill, and spending a day at the world-class Phoenix Zoo.
What does a foodie weekend look like in the East Valley? The culinary scene is vibrant and growing. A foodie adventure might involve brunch at the famous Snooze, an A.M. Eatery, exploring the artisan community of Agritopia and Barnone, having a lively dinner at The Sicilian Butcher, and even taking a local cooking class.
What are the top outdoor activities for a weekend in the East Valley? With year-round sunshine, outdoor adventure is always an option. A classic outdoor weekend includes an iconic hike up Camelback Mountain for incredible views, a relaxing afternoon kayaking or paddleboarding on Tempe Town Lake, and exploring the unique desert landscape of the Salt River to spot wild horses.
Adventure #1: The Ultimate Family Weekend
This itinerary is designed for parents who want to create those core childhood memories. The goal is maximum fun, minimal stress, and a weekend that leaves everyone feeling happy and connected.
• Saturday Morning: The Gilbert Farmers Market. This is more than just a place to buy produce; it’s the heartbeat of the community on a Saturday morning. Start by grabbing a coffee for you and a pastry for the kids from one of the local bakers. The energy is infectious. It’s a fantastic opportunity to teach your kids about local agriculture and feel truly connected to the town you live in.
• Saturday Afternoon: Mansel Carter Oasis Park. This isn’t just a neighborhood park; it’s a destination. It features a massive, multi-level playground that will keep kids of all ages busy for hours, a splash pad that’s a lifesaver on warmer days, and a beautiful lake where you can fish or just watch the ducks. Pack a picnic and spread out a blanket on the huge grassy fields. It’s a place where kids can truly run free and burn off all that energy.
• Saturday Evening: Joe’s Farm Grill. After a long day of play, the last thing you want is a stuffy, formal dinner. Joe’s Farm Grill is the perfect solution. Set in a converted 1960s ranch house on a working farm, it’s the epitome of casual, high-quality dining. You order at the counter, so there’s no waiting for a check, and the picnic table seating means you don’t have to worry about your kids being a little loud. The food is incredibly fresh, with many ingredients grown right there at Agritopia. It’s a stress-free dinner that still feels like a special treat.
• Sunday: The Phoenix Zoo. A short drive from anywhere in the East Valley, the Phoenix Zoo is a world-class facility that offers a full day of adventure. The layout is fantastic, with shaded paths and engaging exhibits. It’s large enough to feel like a real exploration but manageable enough for a family with young children. It’s a perfect way to spend a beautiful Arizona Sunday, creating memories that will last long after the weekend is over.
Adventure #2: The Foodie Getaway
This adventure is for the couple or group of friends who plan their days around their meals. It’s a journey through the diverse and rapidly growing culinary scene of the East Valley.
• Saturday Morning: Brunch at Snooze, an A.M. Eatery. Snooze has a cult following for a reason. This is not your average breakfast spot. The menu is wildly creative, the energy is always buzzing, and the food is consistently spectacular. Yes, there will likely be a wait, but it’s part of the experience. Put your name on the list, grab a coffee, and wander through the charming shops of Downtown Gilbert. The pancake flights are a must-try, allowing you to sample a few of their decadent creations.
• Saturday Afternoon: Explore Agritopia & Barnone. Agritopia is one of the most unique communities in the country—a modern village built around a working organic farm. After brunch, take a walk through the farm itself, then visit Barnone. Housed in a beautifully repurposed Quonset hut, Barnone is a community of skilled artisans, including a craft brewery (12 West Brewing) and a winery (Garage-East). It’s a celebration of local craftsmanship and a fantastic place to spend an afternoon tasting and exploring.
• Saturday Evening: Dinner at The Sicilian Butcher. For a dinner that is both an event and a phenomenal meal, head to The Sicilian Butcher in Chandler. The atmosphere is electric—a bustling, modern space filled with conversation and energy. The concept is interactive and fun: build your own perfect pasta dish by choosing from a variety of craft meatballs, house-made pastas, and sauces. Or, for a truly impressive group experience, share one of their massive charcuterie boards. It’s a fantastic spot for a celebratory and delicious night out.
• Sunday: A Local Cooking Class. To truly immerse yourself in the local food scene, consider a hands-on cooking class. Places like Sweet Basil Gourmetware & Cooking School in nearby Scottsdale offer a variety of classes, from pasta making to regional cuisines. It’s a fun, engaging way to spend a Sunday, and you’ll leave with new skills to try in your own kitchen.
Adventure #3: The Outdoor Enthusiast’s Escape
This itinerary is for the person who moved to Arizona for the sunshine and the stunning desert landscapes. It’s about getting out, getting active, and soaking in the natural beauty that surrounds us.
• Saturday Morning: Hike Camelback Mountain. This is the quintessential Phoenix-area hike. It’s a challenging climb, but the reward is one of the most breathtaking 360-degree views of the entire valley. Reaching the summit feels like a true accomplishment and gives you an incredible perspective on the vastness of our metropolitan area. Be sure to go early to beat the heat and the crowds, and bring plenty of water.
• Saturday Afternoon: Kayak on Tempe Town Lake. After a strenuous morning hike, a relaxing afternoon on the water is the perfect way to recover. Tempe Town Lake is a beautiful urban oasis where you can rent kayaks, paddleboards, or pedal boats. Paddling on the lake with the modern architecture of Tempe on one side and the desert buttes on the other is a uniquely Arizona experience.
• Saturday Evening: O.H.S.O. Brewery in Gilbert. After an active day, there’s no better place to unwind than the massive, dog-friendly patio at O.H.S.O. It’s a favorite gathering spot for locals, and you’ll see hikers, bikers, and families all enjoying the relaxed atmosphere. They have a great menu of hearty food and an extensive list of their own craft beers. It’s the perfect casual end to an active day.
• Sunday: Explore the Salt River. A short drive northeast of Mesa lies one of the East Valley’s most unique natural treasures: the Salt River. Here, you can go for a scenic drive, have a picnic by the water, or simply watch for the area’s famous wild horses. In the warmer months, renting a tube and floating down the river is a classic Arizona pastime. It’s a world away from the suburbs, yet it’s right in our backyard.
This is just a small snapshot of what’s possible here. The best part about living in the East Valley is discovering your own perfect weekend, your own favorite spots, and your own traditions. If you’re thinking about making this vibrant community your home, I’d love to help you find the perfect home base for all your future adventures.
