Let's face it: life is hard. Especially in the modern era! If you often find yourself wishing for simpler times, this road trip is for you. In the span of just 14 miles, you'll visit some of the best retro places in Arizona, including an old-school bowling alley, soda fountain, drive-in movie theater, and more. Even if you weren't yet born in the 50s, we've all felt nostalgic for the iconic decade at one point or another, and this trip lets you live (or relive) its magic.
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1. Châm Pang Lanes (Phoenix)
Our journey into the past begins at Châm Pang Lanes, a retro bowling alley and champagne bar in Phoenix.
Between the disco chandeliers and pinball machines, this unique destination will transport you back to simpler times.
Try your best to bowl a perfect 300, then chow down on some fried chicken and sip a tall glass of bubbly. It's the perfect way to spend a night on the town! Learn more on the Châm Pang Lanes website.
2. MacAlpine's Diner & Soda Fountain (Phoenix)
Located in a former pharmacy, MacAlpine's Diner & Soda Fountain has been a local institution since 1928.
Complete with vintage memorabilia and waitresses attired in poodle skirts, this old-fashioned soda fountain is a delicious blast from the past.
The menu features classic greasy spoon eats like banana splits, floats, and egg creams, and the diner also serves as an antique store. Learn more on the MacAlpine's Diner & Soda Fountain website.
3. 5 & Diner (Phoenix)
With three Arizona locations (two in Phoenix and one in Surprise), 5 & Diner keeps the spirit of the retro age alive.
Upon stepping inside and seeing the checkered floors and red vinyl barstools, you'll be hit with a wave of nostalgia almost immediately.
Just wait until you see what delicious eats are served up here daily!
Boasting all-day breakfast, the diner offers everything from mile-high pancakes and Belgian waffles to chicken-fried steak and big, juicy burgers.
For dessert, you can't go wrong with a traditional malt (whipped cream and cherry on top, please!) Learn more on the 5 & Diner website.
4. West Wind Glendale 9 Drive-In (Glendale)
We're capping off this retro road trip in the best way possible: with a drive-in movie. The last-remaining drive-in theater in Arizona, West Wind is a swap meet by day and an old-fashioned cinema by night. Showings include a mixture of first-run movies and classic films, and there's a snack bar where you can load up on popcorn, candy, soft drinks, and more. Learn more on the West Wind Drive-In website.
Would you take this road trip to the best retro places in Arizona? Tell us your thoughts in the comments! Don't forget to check out our previous article for another old-fashioned ice cream shop that harkens back to the 1950s.
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