Harkins Norterra BackLot: Ultimate Social Entertainment Destination in Phoenix

This vibrant entertainment destination in north Phoenix offers everything a group could want for an unforgettable meetup experience. Whether you're looking to enjoy thrilling interactive games, catch a major sports event on a massive cinema-sized screen, or relax over great food and drinks, BackLot seamlessly combines socializing with high-tech fun. Its spacious, Hollywood backlot-inspired setting gives groups plenty of room to gather, play, and celebrate together. The variety of activities means there’s something for everyone — from competitive bowling to immersive virtual reality — making it the perfect gathering spot for friends and families alike. Also, the presence of private event spaces enhances its appeal for groups that want some exclusivity alongside lively atmosphere. Overall, Harkins BackLot caters expertly to social groups searching for a multi-dimensional venue that fosters shared fun and connection in an energetic, unique environment.

This destination houses 12 state-of-the-art Spark® bowling lanes which elevate traditional bowling with augmented reality effects and neon-bright visuals, creating a fresh and exhilarating experience beyond classic cosmic bowling. For those seeking arcade excitement, the venue offers a massive collection of video and redemption games, including fan favorites like “Guardians of the Galaxy,” “Space Invaders Frenzy,” and “Hot Wheels: King of the Road.” Notably, the “Krazy Darts” experience modernizes darts with towering interactive screens that challenge players to pop balloons, topple ducks, and even take out zombies, blending skill and fun in a visually spectacular way. Additionally, virtual reality enthusiasts can immerse themselves in games like “Godzilla Kaiju Wars VR,” providing a thrilling, futuristic form of entertainment that’s sure to spark lively competition or cooperative play within groups. These varied offerings position BackLot as a premier spot for active, engaging entertainment that appeals to all ages and interests.

The venue boasts the BackLot Arena, home to Arizona’s largest cinema-sized sports screen complemented by over 60 high-definition televisions scattered throughout the space. This setup ensures every seat provides an excellent view, so your group can watch live sports events — whether football, basketball, soccer, or more — in dynamic, crystal-clear quality. The atmosphere is electric, with a stadium-like feeling that energizes fans and encourages shared excitement during games. Moreover, the venue includes a fully stocked bar and indoor-outdoor patio options, making it easy to enjoy refreshments and socialize during the action. This combination of impressive audiovisual technology and social convenience makes BackLot a top choice for groups wanting to rally behind their favorite teams, celebrate wins, and enjoy the camaraderie that sports viewing naturally inspires.

The full-service restaurant and bar provide a lively culinary experience designed to complement the entertainment attractions. Its menu offers a variety of crowd-pleasing dishes alongside a thoughtfully curated selection of beverages, including specialty cocktails available at the bar. Groups can comfortably gather around expansive tables, enjoying meals together in a casual but stylish atmosphere inspired by classic Hollywood glamour. The bar area serves as a nightlife hub within the venue, suitable for post-game or late-evening relaxation. Whether you want to fuel up before bowling, grab a bite between gaming sessions, or unwind after watching a big game, the seamless integration of food and entertainment spaces delivers convenience and variety, ensuring everyone in the party finds something to enjoy.

Beyond its publicly accessible entertainment options, BackLot features private event spaces that cater specifically to groups seeking exclusivity and customized experiences. These spaces are thoughtfully designed to accommodate celebratory occasions, corporate gatherings, or friend reunions, blending the venue’s vibrant energy with more intimate settings as needed. Coupled with the broad selection of activities — from bowling alleys to arcades and VR — these private areas allow organizers to tailor the event to their group’s preferences, ensuring an engaging and memorable occasion. Professional and flexible event support ensures smooth planning, while the innovative environment elevates gatherings by offering meaningful, shared entertainment opportunities. This versatility makes BackLot a standout destination when planning an event that balances fun, interaction, and privacy.

Located at The Shops at Norterra in north Phoenix, the venue is easy to find and accessible for residents throughout the metro area and suburbs alike. Its operating hours are extensive and friendly to various schedules, from midday through late night on weekends, accommodating lunchtime meetups, afternoon escapes, and late-night socializing. The ample parking at The Shops at Norterra adds convenience for groups arriving in multiple vehicles. Additionally, the venue's spacious design provides ample seating and circulation space, minimizing crowding and enhancing comfort for larger groups. Reservations and special offers further ease planning for meetups, creating a stress-free experience. The thoughtful combination of location, hours, and amenities ensures that BackLot meets the logistical needs of group coordinators seamlessly.

Modeled after iconic Hollywood backlots where movies are made, the venue's aesthetic immerses visitors in the glamour of cinematic production, blending nostalgia with cutting-edge entertainment technology. The themed décor engages visitors visually and emotionally, encouraging playful interaction framed by an environment full of character and style. This cinematic motif is integrated throughout—from the design of the bowling lanes to the layout of arcade and VR areas—crafting an immersive backdrop that stimulates imagination and conversation. This unique environment fosters a sense of occasion for meetups, making time spent at BackLot feel special rather than ordinary. The ambience supports social energy, amplifies excitement, and encourages guests to create memorable moments together.

To attract and reward visitors, especially groups exploring the venue for the first time, BackLot periodically offers promotions such as discounts on bowling, food, drinks (excluding alcohol), and selected games like Krazy Darts. For example, a recent offer included a 25% discount on key attractions plus bonus credits on game card purchases. Such deals reduce the cost barrier for group entertainment, enhancing affordability without sacrificing quality of experience. They also encourage longer visits, giving groups the opportunity to sample multiple activities during a single outing. Staying updated on seasonal promotions can help groups add value to their visits, making BackLot not only fun but also financially sensible for outings of friends or family.

Unlike a standard movie theater, a bowling alley, or a simple arcade, BackLot combines multiple entertainment dimensions into one cohesive, innovative space. It is not just a place to watch a movie or play a game but a comprehensive social hub where everyone in a group can find something engaging and exciting. The integration of a massive sports viewing arena, immersive VR, a full-service restaurant and bar, as well as themed interactive gaming distinguishes it from other venues that offer only one or two of these elements. Additionally, the level of technology and thematic design brings a quality and sophistication rarely seen in family entertainment centers or bars. Thus, BackLot provides a superior option for meetups that seek variety, excitement, and a stylish atmosphere all in one place.

By offering extensive entertainment choices, a unique thematic environment, robust sports viewing options, and fully equipped hospitality spaces, Harkins Norterra BackLot establishes itself as a premier destination for groups looking to create dynamic and memorable social experiences. Whether organizing casual hangouts, lively celebrations, or game-day gatherings, this venue promises an engaging, comfortable, and fun-filled environment that elevates every meetup occasion.