Glendale vs. Scottsdale: Which Benefits Most from BCS Tourism?

SCOTTSDALE - Glendale is getting ready for college football's biggest game, the BCS National Championship at University of Phoenix stadium.

The game kicks off Monday night, but the festivities are already underway. Thousands of fans from both teams, the Oregon Ducks and the Auburn Tigers, are descending on the valley.

Even though the game is in Glendale, the hub of the pre-game action is happening in Scottsdale.

At the Scottsdale Waterfront, there is a giant replica field. There are musical acts, food vendors, and other activities.

Many fans chose to stay in Scottsdale because of all the resorts and nightlife. So it's a tale of two cities -- the city hosting the game, and what appears to be the city hosting the fans.

The game is expected to bring in an estimated $420 million to the local economy. So which one is truly reaping the economic benefits of the big game? Where are fans spending their cash?

Glendale spent millions of dollars building Westgate City Center to attract big events like this, but somehow, still can't drum up the reputation as the valley's hot spot.

The party has started in Scottsdale, and that's where the main event is, at least on Friday night. The restaurants and bars are staying busy.

Across town at Westgate, the party may not be as crazy and the crowds may be thinner, but that didn't stop some fans.

FOX 10's Andrew Hasbun has more.

Weekend Bowl Events

Bud Light Fiesta
Through Jan. 9, 11am - 9pm
Scottsdale Waterfront
7025 E. Via Soleri Dr.
Scottsdale, AZ 85251
Free admission
For tickets & event listings, go to www.budlightfiesta.com

College Football's Biggest Party
Jan. 10, 12:30pm - 5:30pm
Glendale Youth Sports Complex
1 Cardinals Drive,
Glendale, AZ 85305
For tickets and more information, go to www.fiestabowl.org

BCS National Championship Tailgate Party
Jan. 10, 12pm - 6:30pm
Westgate City Center
Waterdance Plaza
Loop 101 & Glendale Ave.
Glendale, AZ
www.westgatecitycenter.com