Things to Do in El Mirage

The certified instructors at Go Stand Up Paddle propagate their passion for serenely skimming the waters during paddleboard lessons for first-time paddlers to aspiring paddleboard racers. The classes range in subject matter from basic skills to prodding aside herds of lake monsters to fitness—incorporating flexibility, cardio, and core-strength exercises into the low-impact, full-body sport. The teachers also lead parties to introduce groups to paddleboarding and help them to celebrate a special occasion, and Paddleboard Adventures, in which they supply the gear, know-how, and midday meal necessary to fuel paddlboarding excursions. Before setting onto the gentle body of water, athletes can rent a board or build their own out of popsicle sticks.

Lake Pleasant Watercraft Rentals’ staff helps its customers explore 10,000 acres of water surrounded by the rolling foothills of the Rocky Mountains. The company's three-person Yamaha jet skis speed across the water's surface, sending blasts of mist and churned water into the faces of tailgating pelicans. Nearby, 200 horsepower speedboats create rushes of adrenaline as they tow wakeboards, tubes, and water skis. Pontoon boats take up to 10 passengers on floating picnics and fishing trips, and tours let customers experience the lake without having to learn its fish community’s complicated traffic laws.

Tumbling balls and clattering pins echo across the gleaming hardwood alleys at Glenfair Lanes, where bowlers of all ages strap on multicolored kicks for group play. Fluorescent bulbs shine neon shades onto alleys until 1:30 a.m. every Friday and Saturday night during neon bowling, where orbiting disco balls, flashing lasers, and excessive Blade Runner quotes add flair to game play. Tournament bowlers can clink chalices of beer and soda to celebrate strikes, and pintsize players can fuel up for youth bowling sessions with saucy slices of pizza.