When asking yourself about something to do near me in Scottsdale with a group of friends or family, consider
Ancala Country Club
Why Ancala Country Club is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Ancala Country Club, located in the scenic McDowell Mountains of Scottsdale, Arizona, offers an upscale and family-friendly retreat that blends natural beauty with premier sporting and social amenities. With its spectacular 18-hole, par-72 championship golf course designed by Pete Dye, Ancala provides golf enthusiasts of all skill levels a challenging yet breathtaking setting. Beyond golf, members and guests can enjoy lighted tennis courts, a heated swimming pool, a modern fitness center, and spacious practice facilities including a driving range and putting green. The club fosters a welcoming community atmosphere with numerous social and competitive events year-round, accommodating families, executives, and seasonal visitors alike. Dining options at the clubhouse, such as The Overlook Kitchen & Bar, offer stunning course views paired with quality culinary experiences. Situated within an exclusive guard-gated community spanning 850 acres of the Sonoran Desert, Ancala not only provides recreational activities but also scenic desert and mountain views, complementing its tranquil setting. Its strategic location offers easy access to Scottsdale’s upscale shopping, restaurants, spas, and healthcare facilities. Ancala Country Club embodies a harmonious blend of luxury lifestyle, competitive sports, and relaxed social gatherings, making it an excellent venue for meeting up with friends and enjoying a memorable experience in one of Arizona’s finest private clubs.
Here's what people think of Ancala Country Club
As of recent, Ancala Country Club holds a 4.5-star rating based on 300 reviews.
User reviews consistently highlight Ancala Country Club's excellent golf course design by Pete Dye, commending the challenging layout and pristine condition, which caters well to both casual and serious golfers. Positive reviews often mention the friendly and attentive staff who enhance the welcoming atmosphere of the club. The quality of food and the inviting ambiance of the clubhouse bar area also receive strong praise, contributing to a well-rounded leisure experience. Members appreciate the variety of amenities including well-maintained tennis courts, a swimming pool, and a fully equipped fitness center, which support an active lifestyle within a serene desert environment. On the other hand, some negative feedback points to occasional issues with wait times or service speed during busy periods, and a few mention membership cost as a consideration, reflecting the upscale nature of the club. Despite these minor critiques, the overall consensus remains highly favorable. The mixture of luxury amenities, scenic beauty, social events, and top-tier sporting facilities creates a balanced environment appreciated by most reviewers. Thus, Ancala Country Club successfully maintains its reputation as a premier destination in Scottsdale, well-regarded for providing a comprehensive and enjoyable country club experience.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Christopher J Hearn
Superb private country club facility nestled beneath the McDowell Mountain s in upper North Scottsdale. Exquisite member facility, including golf proshop, restaurant, fitness center, tennis/pickleball courts and various other private amenities for the community of Ancala. Excellent golf practice facilities, including driving range and various chipping and putting greens. The driving is grass and artificial turf mats, depending on the day of the week your there. Electric golf carts and guest service facilities with water bottles and ice machine. Course conditions were exceptional, manicured and pristine. Great track, attackable and playable, but demanding holes requiring golf shots. Only thing that was kind of interesting, or I guess unique was that the turn at hole 9 and completion at hole 18 did not bring you back to the clubhouse, but was nestled in the community. I was honored to be a guest of a prolific Ancala resident and Ancala Country Club member, Bob "Golfs Ironman" Kurtz @GolfsIronman. The last Wednesday of each month a member may have guest come to play at the private course. It was also my pleasure to apart of a special event on course with Bob "Golfs Ironman" Kurtz, the 2025 200 Holes for Charity - Left & Right Handed | Folds of Honor Marathon, where Bob played 200 holes of golf left and right handed on closed course at Ancala Country Club in one day. Started at 5:30am and ended at around 6:00pm. Wanted to thank the staff and team and Bob Kurtz at Ancala for allowing me the opportunity to be apart of this Charity event for charities through Ministries to Children, Inc. A 501(c)(3) charitable organization! Special shout out to the Head Golf Pro, John Cannon, for making me feel invited and apart of this valleys great private experience at Ancala Country Club!!!
Matthew Maronay
Absolutely beautiful courses in N. Scottsdale. Tough par 72, greens were a little fast but beautifully manicures course. Played there for a charity tournament, no idea on the cost but I'm guessing it's expensive!
Geoff Cook
I host Trivia at Ancala. Everyone, the managers, servers, and customers are always friendly, and helpful. I believe it is members only, so check before you visit!
Brittney Jackson
This was the wedding place of my dreams! The price is so affordable for Scottsdale, being cheaper than in my home town of Florence! Amy makes everything so easy and is very hands on, but gives you the space to enjoy yourself. She takes care of the tiny details so you don’t have to worry about anything! The food was also so delicious and stayed warm throughout the reception. 20/10 would recommend to those looking to have a nice, beautiful wedding!
Kevin Kay
Have your wedding here. Seriously. There are multiple options depending on your guest count, the food is incredible, the portions are huge, and the venue is stunning. And the best part? Amy. Amy is absolutely amazing. She took care of everything for us (super helpful as we were from out of town), gave us access to the entire club (changing rooms, restaurant area), and was super flexible as details changed leading up to our wedding day. She was even able to get us our food tasting back in Colorado! Everyone had a blast and we couldn't have asked for a better day.
How to reach Ancala Country Club
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Why Ancala Country Club may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Ancala Country Club with your friends? Because it offers an upscale yet welcoming setting where memorable moments unfold naturally amid stunning natural beauty. Nestled in the foothills of the McDowell Mountains, Ancala Country Club’s blend of luxurious amenities and family-friendly ambiance invites groups seeking an exceptional day out or leisurely retreat. From a fiercely praised championship golf course to pristine pools and lighted tennis courts, every feature is designed to accommodate socializing, friendly competition, and relaxation. Whether you're looking to bond over a round of golf, savor delicious cuisine while enjoying scenic views, or dive into invigorating fitness activities together, Ancala provides an inspiring backdrop. Its spacious outdoor patios and inviting clubhouse create ideal gathering spots for celebrations or casual meetups. Moreover, the club’s attentive service and event calendar foster a vibrant community atmosphere, making it both an impressive venue to entertain guests and a comfortable, inclusive space to strengthen friendships. Hosting a gathering at Ancala means enveloping your group in the best of Scottsdale’s Sonoran Desert lifestyle, where fun, activity, and camaraderie go hand-in-hand.
What activities can your group enjoy together at Ancala Country Club? The centerpiece is an 18-hole, par-72 championship golf course designed by Perry Dye, known for its challenging yet picturesque layout. With undulating greens, strategically placed bunkers, and water hazards, the course caters to seasoned players and enthusiastic amateurs alike. It offers five distinct sets of tees, allowing the group to tailor the difficulty to everyone’s skill level and making it perfect for mixed-ability groups. Practicing at Ancala’s driving range or putting greens adds to the golf experience. Beyond the fairways, lighted hard-surface tennis courts allow extended play well into the evening, enabling pairs or teams to rally and compete under the desert sky. The large heated swimming pool offers a refreshing escape and enough space for casual splashing or relaxed swimming sessions. Adjacent fitness facilities are equipped with state-of-the-art Cybex cardio and strength training equipment, ideal for those wanting to maintain their wellness routines or even try group fitness activities together. Ancala's array of activities ensures that every member of your group finds something fun and engaging, making it a truly versatile destination.
Why is Ancala Country Club the perfect place for group meetups? Its design centers on providing spaces that accommodate and encourage social interaction while maintaining privacy and comfort. The recently enhanced clubhouse features new dining areas and an inviting outdoor patio with panoramic views of the golf course and surrounding desert landscape. This creates an ideal setting where groups can relax after activities or enjoy meals in a casual yet elegant atmosphere. With menu offerings that cater to diverse tastes, your party can savor locally inspired cuisine alongside crafted beverages, enhancing the overall experience. Ancala’s social calendar, which features a range of competitive tournaments and community events throughout the year, further enhances the opportunity to connect and engage with others. For family-focused gatherings, the club is especially welcoming, fostering a safe and friendly environment for guests of all ages. Its location within a gated community prized for security and scenic beauty adds peace of mind and exclusivity. Together, these factors make Ancala a comprehensive venue where groups can bond, celebrate, and create lasting memories.
How does Ancala Country Club’s setting enhance your group experience? The club is uniquely situated in the Sonoran Desert’s serene foothills, offering awe-inspiring views of the McDowell and Camelback Mountains that transform every meetup into a sensory delight. This spectacular natural backdrop invites outdoor dining, leisurely walks, or quiet contemplation alongside the vibrantly landscaped golf course and impeccably maintained grounds. The desert’s warm climate allows year-round enjoyment of outdoor amenities such as the pool, tennis courts, and patio spaces. Additionally, Ancala's proximity to Scottsdale’s upscale shopping, dining, and cultural offerings means your meetup can effortlessly include excursions outside the club for a fuller day out. The combination of exclusivity, natural beauty, and easy accessibility makes Ancala an unparalleled place to gather with friends or family, blending relaxation and adventure in a single, elegant destination.
What social and competitive events at Ancala keep your group connected? The club’s calendar features myriad social gatherings, golf tournaments, and tennis events designed to engage members and guests throughout the year. These include friendly competitions, charity tournaments, and seasonal celebrations that invite participation and enhance group camaraderie. Junior programs encourage families to involve younger members in sports and community activities, making Ancala ideal for multi-generational meetups. These events foster a spirited and supportive atmosphere where new friendships are built alongside longstanding ones. Moreover, regularly scheduled socials and dining experiences provide casual settings to mingle and enjoy the club’s hospitality. Ancala’s commitment to creating a dynamic social environment ensures that groups find consistent opportunities to gather, celebrate, and share exceptional experiences.
What amenities make Ancala suitable for families and mixed groups? Ancala Country Club prides itself on its family-friendly atmosphere while maintaining upscale offerings. The club’s heated swimming pool and fitness center welcome all ages seeking both relaxation and activity. Lighted tennis courts provide a playground for both casual fun and serious matches. The spacious grounds and community park within the adjacent residential area offer grassy play zones, picnic spots with grills, and basketball courts perfect for children and teens. Dining options span from casual to formal, accommodating diverse preferences and occasions. The safety and security of the gated community further consolidate Ancala’s family appeal. This inclusive environment supports multi-generational meetups where everyone—from grandparents to youngsters—can find amenities tailored to their interests and comfort, making Ancala a rare venue that balances luxury with warmth.
How does Ancala Country Club stand out in Scottsdale’s private club landscape? Recognized as one of Arizona’s finest private country clubs, Ancala has earned high praise for its impeccable service, comprehensive amenities, and serene location. Its clubhouse recently underwent a multi-million-dollar renovation, modernizing facilities to meet and exceed the needs of today’s discerning members. The Perry Dye-designed golf course is lauded for both its beauty and challenge, often described as a premier desert golf experience with speedily manicured greens and strategic layouts demanding precision. The club’s tennis and fitness facilities complement the golf offerings, creating a well-rounded athletic environment. Ancala balances exclusivity and comfort, emphasizing personalized service and community spirit within a private and safe setting. These qualities collectively make it not just a golf club, but a vibrant social hub ideal for exclusive group events, a status supported by its excellent 4.5-star rating from 300 reviews.
What dining experiences enhance a group visit at Ancala? The Overlook Kitchen & Bar, located within the clubhouse, serves as the culinary heart of Ancala Country Club, boasting stunning views of the golf course. This venue offers a range of dining options from casual lunches to more sophisticated dinners, creating a flexible space for any type of gathering. The menu features fresh, locally sourced ingredients and a blend of American and Southwestern cuisine, catering to various tastes within a group. The recently added outdoor patios provide an alfresco option perfect for socializing while savoring meals in the pleasant Scottsdale climate. Whether your event calls for a celebratory dinner, casual brunch, or evening cocktails, the dining facilities at Ancala enhance the overall meetup experience with quality food, attentive service, and beautiful ambience.
How accessible and convenient is Ancala Country Club for guests coming from different areas? Located within the guard-gated Ancala community in Scottsdale, the club benefits from both privacy and ease of access. It is strategically situated near the 101 freeway, which facilitates straightforward travel from Phoenix and surrounding areas. This accessibility makes it convenient for guests traveling from afar or locals seeking a quick getaway. The club’s parking and guest services are designed to accommodate groups efficiently, ensuring a smooth arrival and departure experience. Additionally, nearby Scottsdale attractions such as upscale malls, spas, and healthcare facilities can complement a meetup agenda if desired. This seamless blend of exclusivity, natural settings, and practical convenience underlines why Ancala is an excellent choice for group gatherings.
What is the overall atmosphere that guests and members experience at Ancala Country Club? The club is celebrated for its unmatched service, warm hospitality, and inviting yet refined atmosphere. Members consistently describe the staff as friendly, attentive, and dedicated to making every visit enjoyable. The blend of historic desert charm, modern amenities, and continuous enhancements keeps the environment fresh and exciting while preserving a sense of tradition and community. Whether you are setting up a casual afternoon tennis match or a formal group dinner, the ambience at Ancala supports connection, relaxation, and celebration. This combination of personalized attention and superb facilities creates a comfortable yet distinguished setting that enhances any gathering and leaves guests eager to return.