by Jason Keil | photography by Brian Mecinas
Once glutted with national chain restaurants and big-box retailers, the Peoria Eighty-Three Entertainment District, or P83, has expanded to include apartments and local restaurants like Postino and Blanco Cocina + Cantina. Peoria’s City Council rebranded the area – named for its location along 83rd Avenue near Peoria Sports Complex – in 2010 as part of its economic development strategy. The district has evolved into a great spot to spend a sunny day during spring training.
3 PLACES TO EAT
Revolu Taqueria
Game out early? Visit this street food-inspired restaurant for craft cocktails, chicken taquitos and $4 tacos during happy hour from 2-6 p.m. Monday through Friday or $3 all day on Tuesdays.
15703 N. 83rd Ave.
623-878-0215, revolutaqueria.com
The Social on 83rd
Grab brunch between 8 a.m. and 2 p.m. before a weekend game. The menu features avocado toast, a country-fried New York strip and a brunch board with mini pancakes, French toast, pastry, bacon, sausage and fresh fruit.
8350 W. Paradise Ln.
623-486-4343, thesocialaz.us
The Moon Saloon
If you hail from the Windy City, or are just looking to kick back a few pints after the game, this Chicago-themed bar offers cold beer, big burgers and great bar food. Don’t forget some cash, as prices go up slightly for credit card transactions.
16554 N. 83rd Ave.
623-773-2424, themoonsaloon.com
3 THINGS TO DO
Skunk Creek Trailhead
If you have binoculars for the baseball game, they’ll also come in handy for spotting birds at one of the overlooks along this multi-use, partially paved trail that runs along the titular body of water and through nearby Rio Vista Community Park.
15091 N. 83rd Ave.
It’s All In the Game
If you want to check your swing after seeing the best players in the league at the plate, head to this facility near Peoria Sports Complex and step inside the batting cages. Its staff of coaches and athletes also offer lessons if you want to take your hitting skills out of the park.
7797 W. Paradise Ln.
623-979-4263, itsallinthegame.com
Arizona Riders
If hiking or biking Skunk Creek Trail isn’t for you, why not ride it on horseback? Beginners and families can enjoy a gentle 45- to 60-minute ride, while those looking to improve can enjoy a lesson.
15125 N. 83rd Ave.
602-403-9560,
OVERNIGHT OPTION
Cibola Vista Resort and Spa
Head north to end your day with a refreshing swim in the mammoth 375,000-gallon Lagoon Pool or unwind in the expansive hot tub. Then pamper yourself with a Day of Tranquility spa package the following morning.
27501 N. Lake Pleasant Pkwy.
877-688-9889, cibolavista.com
PHOTO OP!
“First Mitt” by George Lundeen
The bronze statue of a boy with a baseball mitt at Peoria Sports Complex perfectly captures why baseball is America’s pastime.
