Is Phoenix an entertaining city? This ranking didn't think so, but Tucson made the list
The study, conducted by sports betting news site Action Network, analyzed the 100 most populated cities in the U.S. based on the availability of entertainment businesses and activities like museums, arcades, theaters and casinos. The study also considered each city's social media presence by analyzing data such as Instagram hashtags.
Here's how metro Phoenix cities ranked on the list of entertaining cities and some cities that didn't make the list.
No other Arizona city made the top 10, but some metro Phoenix cities did show up lower on Action Network's ranking. Here's which cities made the list and their entertainment scores out of 10.
Phoenix: No. 31, with a score of 2.2
Scottsdale: No. 58, with a score of 1.36
Mesa: No. 64, with a score of 1.32
Chandler: No. 75, with a score of 1.08
Gilbert: No. 81, with a score of 0.93
Glendale: No. 92, with a score of 0.6
Many of these cities, Tucson included, made another recent ranking — the most boring cities in America. Gilbert, Chandler, Glendale, Tucson and Mesa all were included in that ranking from Solitaired.
While these studies may not think so, there are many other entertaining cities in Arizona. Here are some The Arizona Republic thinks should have made the list:
Flagstaff: Arizona Republic readers named the mountain town the Ultimate Arizona road trip destination. It has charmed visitors for generations for its mountain scenery and sense of nostalgia that draws people to its historic downtown and Route 66. The city also draws heat-weary Phoenix residents every summer who want to spend time outdoors in a cooler climate.
Bisbee: Republic travel reporter Michael Salerno recommended Bisbee as a great getaway for metro Phoenix residents. "Bisbee's charm and nostalgic appeal have made it a must-visit destination in the U.S.," he wrote. He noted that the city's famous steps, mining history and historic downtown also made it one of the five best places to visit in 2024, alongside far-flung cities in Bolivia and Greenland.
Tombstone: Tombstone was named one of the best downtowns in Arizona. Walking through Tombstone almost feels like you stepped through a time machine into the Wild West. You can learn about historic moments, sip a drink in a saloon or watch a gunfight.
Sedona: Sedona has long been a hotspot and popular destination for Arizonans and out-of-state tourists alike. Whether visiting for the incredibly scenic hiking options, are ready to hit Slide Rock, want to shop at Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village or any other reason, Sedona is definitely an entertaining Arizona city.
Jerome: Arizona travel expert and Republic contributor Roger Naylor says Jerome is the perfect day trip. "With a fairy tale setting, otherworldly views and an artistic vision, Jerome offers an easy escape from the mundane," he wrote. "The real world gets left far behind. This is a place that requires little effort, yet you feel like you're on vacation. It starts with a winding, curving scenic drive."
The Republic wants to know what you think are the most entertaining cities in Arizona. Fill out the poll below.
This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Is Phoenix an entertaining city? This ranking didn't think so
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