The office, as we once knew it, is now a virtual place that allows you to get the job done from wherever you are. For many workers punching a clock off-site, remote status has its perks—especially when you can change your scenery with a “workation” and stay in Chandler, Arizona where you can enjoy the near-perfect weather, the great outdoors, wine and dine, get in a work out, and, of course, plug-in when work calls.

A Dose of Nature

Mild temps signal it’s time to take a break from business and decompress in nature. For a much needed dose of fresh air, visit Veterans Oasis Park, a mix of park land, lake, and wetlands area with 4.5 miles of trails to hike, bike or stroll in between running the world.

The outdoors also is a great place to socialize and network with colleagues during a round of golf at San Marcos Golf Course, Arizona’s first grass course. The public 18-hole, par-72 course sports wide fairways lined with dense shade trees and towering palms.

Collaborative spaces

You can join a virtual meeting or finish a presentation—even if you aren’t staying at a hotel—at many co-working spaces in Chandler. Once considered the “go to” spot for gig workers, they now welcome everyone from solo entrepreneurs to high-level executives. Services include drop-in and membership options, desk space, Wi-Fi, conference facilities, professional printing and mail services. In Chandler, check out Workpliciti in the Price Corridor and Workuity near the Loops 101 and 202 San Tan interchange.

And don’t forget to show your #ChandlerAZ pride during Zoom calls by downloading your favorite local spot with a custom screen background.

Lively Food Scene

The Chandler restaurant scene has exploded in the last few years with a range of dining spots to satisfy diverse palates craving everything from local flavors, to ethnic specialties, to classic American fare.

For a taste of home, American Way Smokehouse in Merchant Square Antique Marketplace serves hand-crafted nostalgia for breakfast and lunch with a focus on house-smoked meats, flatbreads, sandwiches, salads, fresh breads and locally grown produce in a vintage-inspired setting with collectibles and old-timey sodas for sale.

For a taste of culture (French culture, that is)—and a special night on the town—book a table at Cuisine Wine & Bistro, an upscale bistro owned by classically-trained chef Fabrice Buschtetz and his wife, Mairead. Feast on escargot, filet mignon and duck leg confit while sipping on a vintage from the restaurant’s selection of premium wines from around the world.

Happiest of Hours

While many of Arizona’s favorite beers are made here in Chandler, raise a glass to a fresh work perspective at one of the many signature happy hours offered  at Chandler watering holes. One popular HH destination is Sandbar Mexican Grill, a beach-themed cantina with an expansive patio, world-class beers and tequilas, south-of-the-border bites and live entertainment. Happy hour runs from 3 to 7 p.m., Monday to Friday (reverse 9 p.m to close), with $3 domestic beers, $4 well drinks/house margs, $5 wines and craft beers, and food specials such as $2 tacos on Tuesdays.

For a different spin on happy hour, try the Pacific Rim hospitality on tap at Roy’s Restaurant in west Chandler. Sip on Hawaiian martinis and mai tais, or enjoy Asian wines and beer while sampling bar bites of lobster pot stickers, Wagyu beef sliders, and blistered shishito peppers. Happy hour runs from 4 to 7 p.m. every day and features $3 craft beers, $5 well drinks, $7 cocktails, sake and select wine.

Fit for the Road Less Traveled

A workation is the perfect opportunity to revise your fitness routine and try something new.

At Tough Lotus, you can hang from bungee cords attached to the ceiling in aerial fitness classes that include aerial yoga, aerial ballet, cardio swing and tough tone. Pay as you go or purchase discounted multiple class packages.

If you’re looking for a robust workout, a vigorous cycle class at FLO Yoga & Cycle is just the ticket. Featuring energetic Emcees, the heart-pumping indoor cycling classes combine an intense cardio workout with high-energy music and lights for an intense and fun workout. Pricing ranges from drop-in class rates, class bundles or membership options for unlimited classes.