Entertainment and food visions may immediately emerge when you think of a night out in Chandler, Arizona.
Whether planning a romantic evening, exploring with family, or entertaining guests from out of town, this combination promises the perfect blend of art, community, and cuisine. Here’s how to turn a regular night out into an elevated cultural and culinary journey in Chandler.
Since opening its doors in 1989, the Center has hosted thousands of live performances and exhibitions, serving as a dynamic venue for arts education, community involvement, and world-class entertainment.
🎶 What You Can Expect for Things to Do in Chandler:
- Live Music: From jazz and classical to indie, pop, and global music, the lineup is always fresh and engaging.
- Theater Productions: Enjoy everything from Broadway-style plays to edgy modern dramas and children’s performances.
- Dance Performances: Experience ballet, contemporary, and cultural dance presentations.
- Comedy Shows & Speakers: National comedians and inspirational speakers often grace the stage.
- Art Exhibits: The Vision Gallery and art installations showcase local and regional artists.
- Youth & Family Programs: Kid-friendly shows and educational outreach programs ensure something for every age.
Whether attending a symphony, laughing through a stand-up comedy set, or being moved by a thought-provoking play, the Center connects you to the heart of Chandler’s diverse and creative spirit.
🍜 Things to Do in Chandler : Authentic Chinese Cuisine Just Minutes Away
After an inspiring performance, there’s no better way to round off your evening than with a delicious meal—and Phoenix Palace delivers on all fronts. Located at 2075 N Dobson Rd, just a 5-minute drive from the arts center, this beloved dining spot offers some of Chandler’s most authentic Chinese food.
The restaurant is celebrated for its daily dim sum, flavorful stir-fried dishes, and various Cantonese and Sichuan specialties. The setting is elegant yet welcoming, perfect for everything from casual dinners to celebratory meals.
🥢 Highlights of the Phoenix Palace Menu:
- Dim Sum: A daily favorite—steamed dumplings, buns, and savory pastries prepared fresh.
- Peking Duck: Crispy-skinned and tender, served traditionally with pancakes, hoisins, and scallions.
- Salt & Pepper Shrimp: A must-try, lightly battered and tossed in a spicy, garlicky mix.
- Lobster in XO Sauce: A luxurious dish full of umami and spice.
- Vegetarian Options: Dishes like Eggplant in Garlic Sauce and Tofu with Mixed Vegetables.
- Gluten-Free Options: Available on request—ask your server.
The staff is known for their attentive service and deep knowledge of the menu, making your dining experience smooth and satisfying from start to finish.
🧭 The Perfect Pairing: Accessibility & Atmosphere For Things to Do in Chandler
Distance Between Venues: Just 1.5 miles (around a 5-minute drive)
Parking: Both locations offer convenient parking options
Pro Tip: Make a dinner reservation at Phoenix Palace before or after your performance, especially on weekends or show nights.
Sample Evening Itinerary:
- 5:00 PM: Arrive in downtown Chandler and enjoy a pre-show stroll
- 6:00 PM or 7:00 PM: Attend your selected performance at Chandler Center for the Arts
- 8:30 PM or 9:00 PM: Head to Phoenix Palace for dinner and unwind with dim sum and tea
With their proximity and matching ambiance, these two venues complement each other beautifully, offering mental and physical nourishment.
👨👩👧👦 Who Is This Evening Perfect For?
🎉 Couples:
This cultural and culinary pairing is unbeatable if you’re looking for romantic things to do in Chandler. Share a moment over art and end the night with flavorful food and conversation.
🎭 Art & Food Lovers:
The Chandler Center and Phoenix Palace deliver a unique blend of inspiration and indulgence for those who enjoy exploring new art forms and global cuisines.
👨👩👧👦 Families:
Both venues offer family-friendly experiences. Kids can enjoy interactive performances or youth plays at the Center, followed by sharable dim sum dishes and kid-friendly fare at Phoenix Palace.
🧳 Visitors & Tourists: Things to Do in Chandler
Are you exploring Chandler for the first time? Skip the national chains and immerse yourself in the local scene with these two community gems.
💬 What Locals Are Saying
“We love going to Chandler Center for the Arts for their music nights, and Phoenix Palace is our go-to afterward. The Peking duck is incredible!”
– Google Review
“This is our favorite date night combo—watch something soulful at the Center, then grab late dinner at Phoenix Palace. Art and food—it doesn’t get better in Chandler.”
– Yelp Reviewer
“Chandler Center for the Arts always has something going on, and you can never go wrong with dim sum from Phoenix Palace afterward.”
– TripAdvisor Contributor
✅ Plan Your Night in Chandler Today
🎟️ Chandler Center for the Arts
📍 250 N Arizona Ave, Chandler, AZ 85225
🍽️ Phoenix Palace Chinese Restaurant
📍 2075 N Dobson Rd, Chandler, AZ 85224
🌐 phoenixpalacechandler.com
✨ Final Thoughts: Things to Do in Chandler
Whether you’re a long-time Chandler resident or just passing through, pairing an event at Chandler Center for the Arts with a meal at Phoenix Palace is one of the best things to do in Chandler. It’s more than dinner and a show—a celebration of flavor, creativity, and community.
So next time you want to step out of the ordinary, let culture meet cuisine in the most memorable way possible.