The UP-CLOSE Magic Experience! Downtown Phoenix

If you’re looking for a night of entertainment that’s interactive, fun, and a little bit mind-bending, the UP-CLOSE Magic Experience in downtown Phoenix might just be what you need. This show is designed for anyone who loves magic or just wants to see some impressive illusions performed right in front of their eyes. From the moment you step into the Renaissance Hotel to the final act, you’re in for a lively, engaging hour and a half packed with laughs, surprises, and awe.

What really makes this experience stand out is the fact that some of the best magicians from television and Vegas are on stage, performing mere inches away from the audience. Plus, the venue itself adds to the vibe—central, trendy, and with easy access to parking. We love the intimate setting, the chance to interact with performers, and the overall vibe of a night out that feels special but unpretentious.

Of course, no experience is perfect for everyone. One thing to keep in mind is that this is a relatively short show—about 90 minutes—so if you’re after a full evening’s entertainment or a more elaborate production, you might find this a little light. Also, the minimum age is 8, so it’s family-friendly but not suited for very young kids. This tour fits best for those looking for a relaxed, fun, and memorable night that feels personal and lively.

If you’re into magic, enjoy a good laugh, or are just in need of a unique night out in downtown Phoenix, this might be your ticket. Keep reading for a detailed look at what to expect and why it just might be the perfect addition to your Phoenix trip.

Key Points

• Highly rated: Consistently receiving a perfect 5.0 score from all 37 reviews, indicating strong satisfaction.
• Close-up magic: Performers work inches away from guests, making the experience personal and interactive.
• Location convenience: Located inside the trendy Renaissance Phoenix Downtown Hotel, with a discounted VIP valet parking option.
• Family friendly: Suitable for kids 8 and older, making it a good option for family outings or small groups.
• Affordable and popular: Priced at $70 per ticket, booked an average of 24 days in advance, showing good demand.
• Fun and professional: Reviews highlight talented performers and engaging hosts, making it a must-see for magic lovers and casual fans alike.

The Venue and Location: Downtown Phoenix’s Renaissance Hotel

The Renaissance Phoenix Downtown Hotel serves as a perfect setting for this magic show. It’s centrally located, making it easy to access whether you’re staying downtown or just visiting the city. The hotel also offers a discounted VIP valet parking rate of $13, which is actually a neat little magic trick on its own—saving you some cash and stress upon arrival.

The venue itself is described as excellent, with a lively atmosphere that suits the high-energy nature of the show. There’s a full bar and restaurant in the hotel lobby, so arriving early to grab a drink or bite is a good idea. The show starts about 30 minutes after you arrive, giving you a chance to settle in, mingle a bit, and get ready for the magic to unfold.

Why the location matters:

Having the show in a stylish downtown hotel means you avoid the hassle of venturing far out of the city center. It’s accessible via public transportation, and the intimate setting enhances the feeling of interaction—the magicians perform close enough to almost touch, which makes for an exciting visual and emotional experience.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

The entire experience runs for about 90 minutes, so plan your evening accordingly. The show is less about a series of long acts and more about a fast-paced, high-energy performance with lots of audience participation. The performers from prestigious shows like America’s Got Talent and Penn & Teller’s Fool Us are known for their professionalism and humor, which adds to the entertainment value.

The show begins with guests arriving at the hotel about 30 minutes prior to start time. During this time, you can enjoy the full bar and restaurant, settle in, and chat with fellow attendees. Once the curtain rises, the magic begins—performers work incredibly close to the audience, often just inches away, which amplifies both the amazement and the fun.

Throughout the performance, expect interactive magic and comedy. The magicians are praised for their hilarious approach and ability to involve the audience, which means you’ll likely be asked to participate in some trick or be a part of the show’s humor. The reviews emphasize that the performers are very talented and professional, which is key because close-up magic relies heavily on skill and timing.

Highlights from reviews:

• One reviewer calls the performers “very talented and no doubt very professional,” noting the venue as “excellent” and the hosts as “great.”
• Another mentions that “the magicians were hilarious and excellent,” and states that “the entire family had a wonderful time.”

The show is designed for most audiences, though children need to be at least 8 years old to participate comfortably. This makes it suitable for family outings, date nights, or small groups of friends.

Pricing and Value

At $70 per person, this experience offers a lot of bang for the buck, especially considering the caliber of performers involved. When you think about ticket prices for similar magic shows in bigger cities or Las Vegas, this is quite reasonable. The intimate nature of the show, where performers are inches away from you, brings an added layer of excitement that larger, more impersonal productions often lack.

Given the positive reviews and the fact that tickets are typically booked about 24 days in advance, it’s clear this experience is in demand. The fact that cancellations are free up to 24 hours before the show also adds flexibility—something many travelers appreciate when planning trips or spontaneous nights out.

Is it worth it?

Absolutely, if you want a fun, engaging night with impressive magic and comedy in a relaxed setting. The experience is perfect for those who enjoy live performances, interactive entertainment, or just want to add a memorable story to their Phoenix visit.

Practical Tips for Your Visit

• Arrive early: Giving yourself 30 minutes before showtime will allow you to settle in, enjoy a drink, and avoid rushing.
• Parking: Take advantage of the discounted VIP valet parking at $13, but also check nearby public transportation options if you prefer.
• Age considerations: The minimum age is 8, so plan accordingly if you’re bringing children.
• Group bookings: The tour can accommodate groups of 6 or more—consider gathering friends for a fun night out.
• Duration: Keep the 90-minute duration in mind when planning your evening. No long commitments here, but enough time for a complete, lively show.
• Cost: Think of this as an entertainment investment—you’re paying for a high-quality, intimate magic show that’s generally regarded as worth the price.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This experience is best suited for magic enthusiasts and anyone seeking a lively, interactive form of entertainment. The show’s intimate setting and talented performers make it appealing for couples, small groups, or even families with children over 8. If you’re in the mood for something different from typical nightlife or dinner options, this show delivers fun and amazement in a relaxed environment.

It’s also an excellent choice if you’re celebrating a special occasion like a birthday or anniversary—you can add a touch of magic to your night out. However, if you’re after a full evening of entertainment or elaborate stage productions, you might find this a bit short, but for pure fun, this show hits the mark.

Final Thoughts

The UP-CLOSE Magic Experience in downtown Phoenix offers a lively, engaging, and genuinely impressive night out. The top-tier magicians, close-up performative style, and central location make it a worthwhile addition to your Phoenix itinerary. It’s a perfect pick for magic lovers, fun-seekers, or anyone wanting a memorable night that’s more personal and interactive than a typical show.

While it’s not a sprawling production, the intimacy and quality of the performances mean you’re unlikely to leave disappointed. The price aligns well with the experience, especially considering the professionalism and skill of the performers. Whether you’re visiting Phoenix for a weekend or just looking for something different on a weeknight, this show has enough charm and wonder to make it worth your time.

FAQs

Is there parking available at the venue?
Yes, the show is held inside the Renaissance Phoenix Downtown Hotel, which offers a discounted VIP valet parking rate of $13 downtown. There’s also nearby public transportation options if you prefer not to drive.

How long is the show?
The performance lasts approximately 90 minutes, making it a perfect-sized evening activity without feeling too long or too short.

Is the show suitable for children?
Yes, the minimum age is 8 years old, so it’s suitable for families with older kids, or anyone who enjoys interactive magic and comedy.

What’s included in the ticket?
Your ticket grants entry to the show, which features high-energy magic, comedy, and audience participation, plus the convenience of the location.

Can I cancel my ticket if my plans change?
Yes, full refunds are available if you cancel at least 24 hours before the show. Cancellations less than 24 hours in advance are not refunded.

Is this a good experience for small groups?
Absolutely, the show can accommodate groups of 6 or more, making it a fun outing with friends, family, or colleagues.

Overall, if you’re craving a night that combines magic, humor, and a cozy, interactive setting, this show in downtown Phoenix is likely to deliver—no tricks needed.