When asking yourself about something to do near me in Phoenix with a group of friends or family, consider
Encanto 18
Why Encanto 18 is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Encanto 18 Golf Course, located in Phoenix's historic district, is a distinguished 18-hole championship course built in 1935 and designed by William P. Bell. As the third oldest golf course in Arizona, it offers a classic golfing experience with wide, level fairways and limited hazards, making it ideal for golfers of all ages and skill levels. The course provides spectacular views of Downtown Phoenix, enhancing the ambiance for social gatherings and casual outings. Encanto 18 features extensive amenities including a driving range, practice greens, and a full-service golf shop offering apparel, shoes, clubs, rental equipment, golf bags, and accessories suitable for men, women, and juniors. The on-site Encanto Tavern restaurant allows visitors to unwind and enjoy a meal, making it an excellent place to meet friends, share stories about the game, and relax after playing. Its convenient location on 15th Avenue south of Thomas Road and the welcoming environment make it a popular spot for both locals and visitors looking for a memorable round of golf in Phoenix.
Here's what people think of Encanto 18
As of recent, Encanto 18 holds a 4.4-star rating based on 624 reviews.
User reviews of Encanto 18 Golf Course generally praise the course for being enjoyable and well-suited for average golfers, with many appreciating the wide open design and fair challenge it offers. Positive feedback highlights the course's fun playing experience, reasonable difficulty especially on some short par 4s, and the quality of the greens despite recent aeration. Reviewers also commend the scenic views and the pleasant atmosphere that make it an inviting place for casual rounds. However, some negative comments mention a lack of customer service, suggesting that while the course conditions are good, the support and hospitality from staff could improve. Additionally, the greens are noted to be less lush at times, affecting playability. Overall, despite these minor issues, the reviews conclude that Encanto 18 remains a charming and accessible golf destination in Phoenix, valued for its history, setting, and suitability for a relaxing round with friends or family.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Christopher J Hearn
Best condition I've ever played at there! They are really shaping this wonderful municipal golf course up, especially when they host a lot of local mid-range events there. Great track, good practice facility with grass range. Pace of play very well with the course being stacked with play. Keep up the great work, Encanto 18. I will be back soon!!!
James heath
For a city course this is worth 5 stars... Of course in the great state of Arizona and city of Phoenix so many better courses but for what it is, this place deserves it!! Guys in the pro shop are all over it and very friendly, good sized bar Large putting green always in great shape and rolling true Driving range is all you need Golf course layout overall you'll have room to miss, but OB is in play around the perimeter and it'll sneak up with firm conditions, water hazards also are here and there, we'll placed bunkers in the fairways and around the greens, some greens do have quite a bit of undulation... Cart girl paid attention when players/playing which is always good and drink prices ain't bad
John Broadis
For mid-July the course was in very good condition. The fairways weren't full of divots, and the greens were nice. They had a cart girl. Staff was welcoming. The bar staff was great.
Maji Majidi
Gem of a golf course right in the city. They keep it in great shape year round. The greens are more challenging than they look. The bunkers are on the harder side and you can actually putt out of them. The beverage cart is stocked and frequent. Pace of play is good it's great for kids and it's a course that you can definitely score well on.
Pra M
I used play Encanto few years ago (around 2019-2022) and it's sad seeing the state of the course now (2025). 1. First off, there is no starter on the starting hole, so there is no organization/funneling the players into cohesive grouping. What this lead to when I played couple of weeks ago are the following groupings - 4 some, then 1 player, then another 4 some, then a 3 some...talk about stupidity and inefficiency. 2. The course has not been maintained at all. So there is gravel where there should be a cart path, mud where there should be grass, greens that are higher than the fairway (I swear I thought I was putting on the fairway sometimes) AND poorly maintained fairways that are damaged/blended in with the rough that it was just not a fun experience to play. It's not like the course is going through major renovations, it looks like the easiest/cheapest solution was picked to fix the many problems. I understand this is a city course so the budget maybe tight, but I don't see that with other city courses (although I heard Cave Creek is now a war zone - not sure if they are going through renovations). Anyway, I can't recommend this course at all. It's a shell of what it used to be.
How to reach Encanto 18
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Why Encanto 18 may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Encanto 18 with your friends?
If you're looking for a perfect place to gather with your friends and enjoy an engaging, leisurely day, Encanto 18 Golf Course in Phoenix offers a compelling destination. With a solid rating of 4.4 from over 600 reviews, this historic golf course blends accessibility, scenic beauty, and comfortable amenities to create an ideal venue for socializing. The reason to rally your group here is not just about golf; it's about sharing an experience that is welcoming to all skill levels, from beginners to seasoned players. The course’s wide, level fairways and limited hazards ensure a relaxed round without the stress of overly difficult play, making it a venue where everyone can have fun without pressure. Moreover, Encanto’s central location in Phoenix’s historic district provides dramatic views of the downtown skyline, adding an aesthetic backdrop to the social gathering. Beyond the golf itself, the presence of a full-service pro shop, rental options, practice areas, and an inviting restaurant means your group can spend an entire day here comfortably, fitting golf with casual dining and quality time together. Encanto 18 strikes a balance between tradition and ease, offering a charming setting to connect with friends or family on the green or off it.
What activities can you enjoy at Encanto 18 that make it perfect for group meetups?
Encanto 18’s primary attraction is its 18-hole championship golf course, designed to accommodate players of all ages and skill levels. The course features wide, flat fairways making the game more enjoyable and less intimidating for beginners and average players, which is particularly important for groups where skill levels vary. The course is framed by impressive palm trees and native foliage, complemented by stunning views of downtown Phoenix. This combination of natural and urban scenery enhances the atmosphere, making each round more memorable and giving your group plenty to admire between shots. For those looking to polish their skills together, Encanto offers a dedicated practice area with a driving range, putting greens, and a short game zone, allowing your group to warm up or compete in friendly contests before taking on the course. The availability of golf lessons also provides an option to learn and improve as a group, guided by professional instruction. Finally, the Encanto Tavern restaurant on-site offers a perfect spot for post-game relaxation or casual dining, enabling your group to share stories and refreshments in a welcoming environment. This versatility ensures that everyone in your group, whether playing golf or cheering from the sidelines, will have a meaningful and enjoyable day.
How does Encanto 18’s history and ambiance contribute to the group experience?
Encanto 18 is more than just a golf course; it’s a piece of Phoenix’s golfing heritage, established in 1935 and recognized as the third oldest golf course in Arizona. This historical significance adds depth to your meetup, providing a narrative backdrop that can spark conversations and enrich your group's visit. The classic design by architect William P. Bell preserves a sense of tradition while remaining approachable for contemporary equipment and playing styles. Walking or riding through a course that has welcomed golf enthusiasts for nearly a century creates a unique ambiance where history and modern recreation blend seamlessly. Moreover, the course’s location in the city’s historic district means you are surrounded by architectural and cultural landmarks, making your gathering not only about sport but also about experiencing a part of Phoenix's identity. The park-like setting adjacent to municipal open spaces and the plentiful shade trees offer natural beauty and respite from the desert sun, causing your group to feel relaxed and engaged in a refreshing environment. This mix of history, beauty, and tradition makes Encanto 18 a special place to rally your friends or family for a day filled with both activity and connection.
Why is Encanto 18 suitable for groups with varying levels of golf experience?
Encanto 18 excels in being a player-friendly and inclusive course that welcomes a broad spectrum of golf abilities, making it an excellent choice for groups composed of novices, intermediate players, and even some more experienced golfers. The course is designed with wide, flat fairways and relatively few hazards, reducing frustration and encouraging a smooth pace of play. This design philosophy allows beginners to feel comfortable trying shots without undue pressure, while average players can enjoy strategic challenges without being overwhelmed. The variety of tee boxes further allows players to select distances matching their comfort and skill level, ranging from championship tees at around 6,400 yards down to forward tees designed to accommodate less experienced golfers, especially women or seniors. Equipment rentals and a well-equipped pro shop enhance convenience, meaning your group can come prepared or pick up what they need onsite without hassle. Rentals cover everything from clubs to carts, and pull carts are also available for those preferring to walk. This adaptability ensures no one in your group feels left out and everyone can engage with the game in a way that suits them, making the meetup more inclusive and enjoyable.
What amenities and services at Encanto 18 support a comfortable and sociable meetup?
The range of amenities at Encanto 18 is extensive and thoughtfully tailored to enhance visitor comfort and enjoyment during group meetups. The golf facility offers all necessary services including a fully stocked pro shop with apparel, shoes, clubs, and accessories, ensuring your group members can gear up on site. For accessibility, the course provides wheelchair-friendly entrances and parking, making it easier for groups including members with mobility considerations. The availability of golf carts and pull carts caters to different preferences and endurance levels, supporting both energetic walkers and those who prefer a more relaxed pace. Practice facilities such as driving ranges and putting greens enable the group to warm up or engage in lighthearted competitions before or after your round. The on-site Encanto Tavern restaurant is a social hub where the group can converge for meals, snacks, or drinks, extending the experience beyond golf. Food and beverage amenities enhance bonding time, allowing participants to share highlights of their rounds or simply relax in a vibrant atmosphere. Collectively, these features not only facilitate smooth, stress-free play but also foster a convivial environment ideal for strengthening friendships and family ties.
How does the location and environment of Encanto 18 enhance the meetup experience?
Located in the heart of Phoenix’s historic district, Encanto 18 benefits enormously from its prime urban setting combined with natural beauty. Its proximity to downtown Phoenix offers dramatic city skyline views from across the course, providing a stunning visual contrast to the green fairways and palm-lined holes. This unique combination turns a simple golf outing into an aesthetically pleasing event, perfect for photography or casual sightseeing between shots. The surrounding neighborhood is historically rich, providing interesting walking opportunities or nearby attractions for group members who might want to explore before or after golfing. Additionally, the course’s flat terrain and open layout make it especially comfortable during the cooler months, offering a mild and pleasant climate that is ideal for outdoor group activities. As a municipal course, it remains affordable and accessible, encouraging spontaneous group plans and minimizing logistical concerns. The spaciousness of the grounds allows groups to feel a sense of privacy and freedom, fostering relaxed conversation and camaraderie away from overly crowded venues. Thus, Encanto 18’s combination of location, scenery, and environment creates an inviting, memorable atmosphere for hosting any group meetup.
What do visitors say about the pace, cost, and overall vibe of Encanto 18 that appeal to groups?
Visitor feedback illustrates that Encanto 18 is valued for its balance of affordability, ease of play, and social vibe that fits well with group dynamics. Many praise its low prices compared to private or resort courses, making it an economical option for those looking to enjoy a full 18-hole round without breaking the bank. The pace of play is generally described as relaxed, which is ideal for groups wanting to enjoy conversation and camaraderie without feeling rushed or pressured. While some note occasional slower play during busy times, the course’s overall design and management strive to maintain a friendly, community-focused atmosphere. The casual and inviting vibe encourages enjoyment over competitiveness, which can be very appealing for families or groups of friends seeking connection rather than tournament tension. The historic charm and friendly staff, including welcoming pro shop personnel, further contribute to a pleasant environment. Collectively, these factors make Encanto 18 a favorite local course that groups regard as a comfortable and enjoyable place to meet, play, and forge memories together.
Why is Encanto 18 ideal for hosting meetups beyond just golf?
While Encanto 18 shines as a golf venue, its amenities and atmosphere make it suitable for broader social gatherings and events. The presence of a restaurant on-site provides a natural meeting place for groups to dine or catch up before or after play, accommodating varying schedules and interests. The open green spaces and park-adjacent setting offer opportunities for casual outdoor activities such as picnics, walking, or watching others play, allowing group members who may not wish to golf still to participate in the meetup. The relative ease of access and ample parking ensure no one feels stressed arriving or leaving. Additionally, the course's friendly environment and flexible amenities support birthday parties, corporate outings, or casual celebrations where golf is part of a larger social agenda. Its historic character adds a distinctive element that can make events feel special and memorable. These features combine to make Encanto 18 not just a sports venue but a versatile location that enhances social connections and group bonding in a relaxed setting.