Desert Ridge Marketplace in Phoenix, Arizona has such a bright and energetic atmosphere that I really enjoyed when I visited with someone. I noticed a lot of teenagers walking around, and the whole place feels lively in a way that teenagers would love. The outdoor areas, the open walkways, and the spots to sit or take pictures don't cost anything at all, which makes it easy to have fun there without needing a plan. I didn't realize how much there was to enjoy until I walked around and saw how welcoming and upbeat the whole marketplace feels. It surprised me how comfortable it was to just be there without feeling rushed or overwhelmed by the crowds. Even though it's a shopping and entertainment center, it gives teenagers a great place to hang out, take photos, listen to music, or just be creative while exploring the different areas. I only visited Desert Ridge Marketplace one time in my life before making this review, but it ended up being one of the most enjoyable and youthful places I've been to in a long time. I never doubted that the experience would turn out the way I hoped it would. I've lived for 24 years, but in the summer of 2024 I learned that I'm still physically and mentally 18 years old, and that my prefrontal cortex is more developed than the average 25‑year‑old's. Maybe that's why I connect so much with places that feel playful, social, and full of energy. I would highly recommend that teenagers go to this marketplace because it gives them a fun, open space to enjoy themselves, walk around, and feel creative. I loved the decision that was made with the variety of store they have there. I also loved the service there. read more

Every now and then, it's nice to stroll through the Desert Ridge Marketplace or stop by a restaurant or store. I occasionally go with my wife, a family member, or a friend (or some combination). I sometimes go on my own. Earlier this week, I met a friend for lunch at a restaurant in The District and then walked around and went into a few stores. There's something for everyone and plenty to see and do. The Desert Ridge Marketplace is known for some great restaurants. While they have less in terms of fine dining, there are many great casual or upscale casual restaurants, national chains, and local chains. There are also some good fast casual restaurants to go. Some of my favorites include Islands, Tikka Shack, The Keg, Cafe Zupas, Fly Bye, and Flower Child. You can then grab some treats to go at ITSUGAR or Cold Stone Creamery. There are also plenty of shops from casual ones to nicer casual. You'll need to head to nearby Scottsdale Quarter or Kierland for the upscale shops. My wife and I frequent Barnes & Nobles, Bath & Body Works, Five Below, Kohls, Target, and DSW the most. Find happy hours and other specials for restaurants and stores at https://shopdesertridge.com/directory/sales-promotions. Entertainment options at the Desert Ridge Marketplace include the AMC movie theatre, As You Wish pottery painting, games and music at the Backyard and Copper Blues, games at Dave & Buster's, and comedy at the Desert Ridge Improv. There are also a bunch of specialty and fitness stores. You can also find events at https://shopdesertridge.com/event including Trivia Tuesday and music at Backyard, Christmas Angel Tree, and 12 Days of Snowfall just to name a few. The Desert Ridge Marketplace has a children's play area, corn hole (two sets!), EV charging stations, a fireplace, LED screens, live music (often on Friday and Saturday nights), a splash pad, wifi, and sip & strolls. The area is also dog-friendly with plenty of places to walk your furry friends. The hours at stores and restaurants differ greatly, and there is no widely advertised set of hours for the area. There is plenty of free parking around Desert Ridge. You can read more about the Kierland Commons at https://shopdesertridge.com including a place you can sign up to be on their mailing list and get offers and opportunities to sign up for giveaways. There is also a mall map on there along with a listing of activities and experiences with events. read more

Desert Ridge Marketplace (DRM) is a charming entertainment district located in, you guessed it, Desert Ridge. You'll find restaurants, bars, retailers, comedy clubs, movie theaters, and more. It's a great area to stroll around and have some fun. Beyond the shopping, dining, and entertainment options, there are a few things that stand out to me about DRM. First, they host events periodically. Think things like holiday pop-ups, Lunar New Year celebrations, and many family-friendly events. Second, it's beautiful at night. There are lights that make quite the impression. There are plenty of seats and benches where you can hang out. There's an outdoor fireplace that's functional depending on the time of the year. There are tiki torches. You get the picture. Third, when you're within the district, you can drink alcoholic beverages. I've always been a fan of being able to do that in the States, which isn't common. There are a ton of great restaurants and bars to choose from, and I'm lucky to have it within walking distance from my place. read more

Desert Ridge Marketplace - November 2025 - Shopping Centers Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

This was my Pre-Mother's day stroll through the Desert Ridge Marketplace. The kids were having a blast over by the dancing water fountains. It was a bubble mania day with bubble machines, and a big soap dispenser showering the kids. Hope they didn't eat any soap! This open air Marketplace is a great shopping opportunity for the entire family. Plenty of parking, restaurants and things to see and do, WiFi in some of the larger businesses. read more

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Pretty spacious and tons of shops restaurants book stores movies seating areas & splash pads. Super cute outdoor mall to enjoy w family and friends. So many shops,I def got a lot of steps in by walking around read more

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I visited on a Thursday for their summer block party. I thoroughly enjoyed myself. On the mainstae, there were various performers, even a salsa dance lesson! There were multiple vendors for kiddos and adults. Desert Ridge Marketplace is the home of retailers and restaurants. Great venue to window shop! Accessible parking and entrances. read more

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Turning into Desert ridge is a total nightmare there needs to be a better way to get into this area. Getting here was backed up onto the loop 101 read more

Desert Ridge Marketplace - Xmas tree - Shopping Centers Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

I don't get to stop by here often because it is a drive for me. But I do find myself at Desert Ridge Marketplace on occasions. I live closer to Tempe Marketplace which is a sister property that has a similar design. Desert Ridge Marketplace combines an outer area that has "Big Box" retailers like Target and Kohl's and a number of restaurants with a central area called "The District". The District is an outdoor mall that has a number of smaller shops, eateries and an AMC Theatre. It is located in the northern part of the Valley off the 101 freeway. The High Street district and Mayo Clinic Hospital are nearby. Desert Ridge Marketplace does a nice job with decorations during the holiday season. When I was shopping here for Christmas, they had a large tree set up at the center of the District area. When the weather is cooler, it is a nice place to walk around and shop. Parking is free and they have plenty of spots. But during the holiday season, it can get a little busy and parking can be a pain. They have some food options here that I enjoy that you won't find at the Tempe location. Desert Ridge has hosted a couple of fun outdoor events in the district area that I have attended in the past. read more

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I love going to DRM when I need to pick up an outfit really quick. There are lots of stores to shop at and plenty of good restaurants to choose from. read more

Literally the best place to see a show. Mark is the best server and so attentive! Food, drinks and atmosphere

One star because I can't give zero. Seriously. Get some security that enforces your code of conduct. Teenagers are absolutely ruining the want to even shop here. Stores are already short staffed and can't waste time babysitting unruly, disrespectful children. I don't even feel safe anymore. I don't know what your target demographic is, but it can't be teenagers stealing. read more

This place all the essentials near Mayo Clinic. Easy to get to and lots of parking. Depending on what stores you plan to shop, it can be long walk. read more

The best gym ever! The staff is always kind and friendly! Everything is super organized and clean.

my family and i went here for the first time today and given that it was a double whammy of a sunday afternoon and a holiday (st. patrick's day, to be specific), it was pretty damn crowded. aside from the crowds, we had a pretty decent experience shopping here. if you pop a gander at my previous reviews, you'll know that hot topic is one of my favorite places to shop. i was pleasantly surprised when i found a location here, right next door to spencer's (another one of my favorite places to shop)! there's plenty more stores as well to get your shopping fix. i haven't formed much of a solid opinion about desert ridge since this was my first time going here, but hopefully my future experiences will also reap positive benefits! read more

We live close by so we frequent this place. It's great because it has a lot of stores that we shop in and food options. There's always something for everyone! We love that we can take our dogs with us and just hang since it's open. read more

Great shopping and variety of stores but they have not planned for the future. It takes more than 20 minutes to get to an exit from anywhere that one parks especially on the holidays and weekends. Traffic needs to be directed and they need to create more spots so that shopping can be done with peace of mind. Right now, half the worry is how does one get out of there. There is so much empty space behind High Street and they need to develop it in a much better way. The new apartment's that they are building opposite to the first main entrance are going to create a traffic nightmare but nothing seems to be of any concern. Safety is more important than shopping. read more

I hadn't been here in years since I used to live in Phoenix. Seems like it has grown some and had some new additions. Parking is plentiful but does seem to be congested. The only thing I did not care for was the traffic getting in and out of here. read more

Gorgeous place to walk the dog and window shop. Lots of restaurant options and you can never go wrong with a book store!

Hadn't been here in a while and wow to the property owners keep up with the latest and greatest businesses. Restaurants and shops. We used to live nearby, but it was so fast-paced we moved to the outskirts. We still like to stay-ca here in the area and hang out here at Desert Ridge. They have something for everyone. Entertainment, plenty of eateries, shops for kids and adults. Many of my favorite stores here too. It was a real treat seeing all the new places new areas for the kiddos. Adults 21 and up can walk around with alcoholic beverages on the grounds now. Kinda cool! read more

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There is a LOT of variety but, the parking is "PARKING HELL" on Fri/Sat nights! So, unless you take an Uber or carpool where the driver can drop you off at the door forget it! read more

Such a great shopping local with tons of outdoor seating and it is dog friendly. There are great shops and restaurants surrounding the market place as well. The shops have everything from a Barns and Noble to a Sephora so you are pretty much guaranteed to find what you are looking for, if not in the marketplace, then in the shops surrounding it. There is also inexpensive food options alongside slightly higher-end dinning options. read more

I LOVE Kona grill, I've been going for years. I would recommend the macadamia chicken or the surf n turf! Jenna the manager, has a fantastic taste in style and is very professional and Crystal is amazing at her job as the general manager! read more

Although the grounds are well kept and the variety of stores is great, I would avoid Desert Ridge at all costs. I never see a security guard when I go, the music is always loud and chaotic, and there are now multiple reports coming from this place that it is not safe. I can say that a place this size needs to have better security. Especially around the bathrooms and where children play. If they up their security, I would be more comfortable going. read more

Nice and clean location I love Desert Ridge marketplace has been coming here for years tons of food lots of shops, great place to bring the family or a date 10 out of 10 would recommend!!!! read more

Desert Ridge Marketplace - Shopping Centers Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

I love this place! It's great for kids! My kids and I enjoy it here every season! Tons of fun in summer with splash pad and winter with cozy fireplace! It has a great energy here especially for a shopping center! read more