A must see destination for arts and theater fans of all ages and the backbone for performing arts in Phoenix, Herberger Theater Center is home to plays, dance performances, an art gallery and even art education and outreach programs.

Parking and public transportation at the Herberger Theater Center
Visitors to the Herberger Theater Center should park in the Arizona Center Parking Garage at 400 North 5th street. Half price parking vouchers are available, but only through the box office. Taking the Valley Metro light rail? Get off at the 3rd Street and Washington stop and head a few blocks north. A number of Valley Metro bus routes also run nearby the facility.

Best and worst time to go to the Herberger Theater Center
Performances and plays happen year round, but the late summer and early fall (August / September) are less active. Schedule too busy to make a weekend show? Try partaking in a "Lunchtime Theater" event. Want to avoid groups of school kids? Go on a Friday or Saturday night. Tired of sweltering in the midday heat? Catch a Sunday afternoon matinee. The options are endless.

Admission to the Herberger Theater Center
Tickets vary in price depending on the show you're seeing and what time of day the show is playing. Evening performances range between $15 and $50 depending on where you want to sit.

Must see/do at the the Herberger Theater Center
Performing arts fans should see a play on one of the Herberger Theater Center's three stages. Groups looking to host a party or reception should visit the Art Gallery on site, and Bob's Spot which provides catering as well as breathtaking views of the Herberger Theater Center. Sculpture fans will want to stop by the Outdoor Spaces which feature a number of works from Arizona-based artist, John Waddell.

Other places to visit near the Herberger Theater Center
There is plenty of dining, entertainment and shopping nearby the Herberger Theater Center. Looking to catch a movie? Visit the AMC 24 Theater a few blocks away. Sports fans can catch a Suns or Diamondbacks game within walking distance. Hungry? Grab a bite to eat at Hannys or Desoto Central Market.

Insider tip for visitors to the Herberger Theater Center
Want to get your fill of the arts on a budget? Buy a ticket to Lunch Time Theater. It happens every Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday just after noon and features some of the hottest up-and-coming theater acts.

Author's bio: Chad Birt has lived in Phoenix for 9 years. He's a bike rider, bookworm and freelance writer.