Coming in December rates are going to be inflated on any course you play out here. There are a number of top courses in the area to choose from...
Troon North- fairly close to where you are staying and always a good choice. $$$
We Ko Pa- Would be a pretty good drive from where you're at but it would be worth it. $$
Gold Canyon Dinosaur Mountain- Great course, probably an hour drive from old town area though. $$
Boulders- Closer to you and a great course as well. $$$
Whirlwind- Troon run course, 30 minute drive from there and a step below these others. But a very solid option. $
As far as casinos go, Talking Stick is the only one worth going to. It is by far the nicest one here.
Catch a Cardinals game if you're here when they are playing, stadium is something to see.
Old town is the place to go out, it's pricey but a very good time with a ton of talent out there.
Camelback Mountain is the most popular hike in that area, always has a ton of people, but it's still a good time.
Don't waste your time on a Suns game, they stink and nobody shows up unless a big name is in town (Lebron).