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Thinking about visiting Phoenix? The Valley of the Sun is one of the most iconic travel destinations in the Southwest region of the United States and a must-visit spot in Arizona. Brimming with beautiful culture, stunning mountains, and spectacular sandy deserts with many things to see, including gorgeous desert animals.

Many people often overlook Phoenix, asking themselves if it's worth it to come here. However, after just being here for a short time, they'll almost always fall in love. There's a certain ambiance to the city that gives visitors a new perspective on the West and desert living.

UPDATE: 2023/11/17 12:12 EST BY NOAH STAATS

The Crown Jewel Of AZ: Everything To Consider Doing In Phoenix

This article has been refreshed with four new things to do in Phoenix, Arizona, including checking out the nearby city of Scottsdale.

Things To Do

Phoenix city offers luxury resorts, cultural and historical attractions, an incredible dining scene, and endless opportunities for outdoorsy travelers. Phoenix has everything one would need to have an unforgettable vacation experience, no matter their interests and age.

Here is the complete travel guide to Phoenix.

1 Do Some Shopping On High Street

Flight of beer in Phoenix, Arizona
Shutterstock
Flight of beer in Phoenix, Arizona

High Street is the perfect choice for those after an upscale shopping afternoon or evening while in Phoenix. Here, people can enjoy lit-up streets filled with food, comedy clubs, shopping, and residential buildings, all with a community feel.

High Street has long been a local hot spot, with many new places to eat and drink opening by the year. From sunglasses, clothing, and cocktails galore, this shopping area is a must-do in the Grand Canyon State!

  • Address: 5415 E High St, Phoenix, AZ 85054
  • Hours: Open daily between 11 AM to 12-2 AM

2 Walk Through The Ever Charming Kierland Commons

People have food and drinks at Four Seasons, Scottsdale
Image credit: Four Seasons Image Library
People have food and drinks at Four Seasons, Scottsdale

The next idea for people in the Phoenix, Arizona, area is to check out Kierland Commons. With half the shopping district in Scottsdale and the other in Phoenix, this is a fun way to jump the city line, all without driving or taking a bus. Kierland Commons boasts many stores, including luxury brands like Chanel, and plenty of trendy restaurants and bars.

There are also quite a few interior design stores in Kierland, making it a one-stop shop for all things home, garden, and fashion.

  • Address: 15205 N Kierland Blvd Suite 150, Scottsdale, AZ 85254
  • Hours: Open daily from 10 AM to 8 PM (closes at six on Sundays)

3 Heritage & Science Park/Historic Heritage Square

Westin Kierland Resort and Spa Golf Course in Scottsdale, Arizona
Shutterstock
Westin Kierland Resort and Spa Golf Course in Scottsdale, Arizona

Another destination worth exploring in the Phoenix area is the Heritage & Science Park/Historic Heritage Square. This is a long-time cultural hub in the city, offering tourists a glimpse into the history of the city and Arizona State as a whole.

The Square dates back to the late 1800s, as well as buildings boasting old-school design and interior intact. The area is between East Monroe, East Washington, North 5th, and North 7th Streets in the downtown corridor of Phoenix.

  • Address: 113 N 6th St, Phoenix, AZ 85004
  • Hours: Wednesday through Sunday from 10 AM to 4 PM (12-4 Sundays)

Traffic may be intense during the Monday-Friday work week at 7/8 AM and then 5/6 PM.

4 The Fairmont Scottsdale Princess

Old Town Scottsdale sign
Jeremy Alford via Unsplash 
Old Town Sign, Scottsdale, Arizona, USA

For those wanting to get festive and fancy in Phoenix, heading up to Scottsdale and visiting the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess is a must. This is one of the many luxury resorts in the area, offering food, entertainment, spas, pools, and shopping.

  • Address: 7575 E Princess Dr, Scottsdale, AZ 85255

5 Hike In Papago Park

A cactus with landscapes in Phoenix, Arizona, in the background
Photo by Austin Schultz on Unsplash
A cactus with landscapes in Phoenix, Arizona, in the background

One of the best things to do in Phoenix is to visit Papago Park. Here, visitors to the area can hike through rocky terrain, getting some of the best views in the city. This public area allows visitors and residents to enjoy the desert sun together, making it a more authentic experience in the valley.

  • Address: 625 N Galvin Pkwy, Phoenix, AZ 85008
  • Hours: Open daily from 5 AM to 11 PM

6 Explore The Desert Botanical Garden

Desert Botanical Garden, Phoenix, United States
Photo by Nichole Granja on Unsplash
Desert Botanical Garden, Phoenix, United States

Situated in Papago Park, the Desert Botanical Garden covers 140 acres and is home to several plants from different corners of the planet. At this garden, vacationers can spot hummingbirds in the special gardens dedicated to attracting them. Spring brings the beautiful plant to life, making it a great time to explore the garden.

  • Address: 1201 N Galvin Pkwy, Phoenix, AZ 85008
  • Hours: Open daily from 8 AM to 8 PM
  • Tickets: $16.95 per guest

7 The Japanese Friendship Garden Of Phoenix

Phoenix downtown, an hour away from Wickenburg, AZ
Image by David Mark from Pixabay
Phoenix downtown, an hour away from Wickenburg, AZ

One of the best spots in Phoenix is The Japanese Friendship Garden. This peaceful location is smack-dab in downtown Phoenix, providing an escape from the hustle and bustle. One of the standout features of this garden is that it's a joint project of the sister cities Phoenix and Himeji.

There is also a tearoom and a store, so there are opportunities to browse and bring something back home!

  • Address: 1125 N 3rd Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85003
  • Hours: Tuesday through Sunday from 9 AM to 4 PM
  • Tickets: $10 for adults, $8 for seniors, $7 for students

8 Check Out The Heard Museum

Phoenix, AZ, USA
Photo by Nader Abushhab on Unsplash
Phoenix, AZ, USA

Another place to hit up while in Phoenix is the Heard Museum. This location is a private, not-for-profit museum dedicated to Native American art and the progression of their community in the state/world.

The Heard Museum has a sense of pride and power, often keeping people the entire day. Between the displays, seasonal shows, and outdoor spaces, the Heard Museum is one of the better spots to spend an afternoon in the city.

  • Address: 2301 N Central Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85004
  • Hours: Open daily from 10 AM to 4 PM
  • Tickets: $22.50 per guest

9 Catch A Game At Chase Field

Large mountain behind sprawling city
Photo by Chris Tingom on Unsplash
Camelback Mountain, Phoenix, Arizona

Another unique outdoor experience in Phoenix, Arizona, is the famous Chase Field. Here, people can watch Major League Baseball throughout the year in one of Arizona's premier fields.

The property features a retractable roof and is home to the Arizona Diamondbacks.

  • Address: 401 E Jefferson St, Phoenix, AZ 85004

10 Unleash Your Wild Side At The Phoenix Zoo

A Rare Peek Of Golden-hour Sunlight On A Cloudy Day In Papago Park To Phoenix, Arizona
Photo by Tim Chow on Unsplash
A Rare Peek Of Golden-hour Sunlight On A Cloudy Day In Papago Park To Phoenix, Arizona

Of all the things to do in Phoenix, visiting the zoo is ideal for families. At the Phoenix Zoo, visitors can experience the largest privately owned, non-profit zoo in the United States, as well as a favorite among Arizona residents.

The property opened in 1962 and has since become a staple of animal conservation for the state. It's also worth noting that this zoo sits in Papago Park, so people can experience both on the same day!

  • Address: 455 N Galvin Pkwy, Phoenix, AZ 85008
  • Hours: Open daily from 9 AM to 4 PM
  • Tickets: $37.95 for adults and $27.95 for children.

11 Children’s Museum Of Phoenix

Sunset in Phoenix City, Arizona
Image by João Francisco from Pixabay 
Sunset in Phoenix City, Arizona

At the Children's Museum, travelers can explore a museum with more than 300 interactive play areas for kids aged 10 and under. This is the perfect spot to spend a few hours with the kids, all within a safe, air-conditioned space.

Most people spend 2–3 hours here, as it's a fairly large complex.

  • Address: 215 N 7th St, Phoenix, AZ 85034
  • Hours: Open daily from 9 AM to 4 PM
  • Tickets: $17.00

12 Visit The Musical Instrument Museum

Panoramic view of Phoenix, Arizona
Shutterstock
Panoramic view of Phoenix, Arizona

Boasting an incredible collection of over 6,800 musical instruments from different parts of the world, The Musical Instrument Museum is one of the top five best and the only global musical instruments in the world.

Time spent at this well-curated museum will be thrilling, as it allows vacationers to learn about different musical instruments and watch them being played. It offers an unforgettable cultural experience while giving the tourist a great music lesson at the same time.

  • Address: 4725 E Mayo Blvd, Phoenix, AZ 85050
  • Hours: Open daily from 9 AM to 5 PM
  • Tickets: $20 per guest

13 Have Fun At Taliesin West

Hiking trail in Phoenix, Arizona
Photo by Mason Mulcahy on Unsplash
Rocky section in a hiking trail in Phoenix, Arizona 

There is a fascinating history to catch at Taliesin West, a former winter home of Frank Lloyd, one of the world's most celebrated architects. It was Frank's home from 1937 until he passed away in 1959. The facility is located on the foothills of the McDowell Mountains, just outside Scottsdale, and is open to tourism.

This place is worth exploring, even for vacationers with the slightest interest in architecture. Vacationers visiting the site must experience at least one guided tour, and there are numerous options to choose from, depending on one's interests and time.

  • Address: 12621 N Frank Lloyd Wright Blvd, Scottsdale, AZ 85259
  • Hours: Open daily from 10 AM to 5 PM

14 Explore Arizona’s Amazing Wine Culture

Phoenix, Arizona
Photo by Rylan Hill on Unsplash
Phoenix, Arizona

Arizona is home to two large award-winning wine regions and is reachable in less than three hours from the capital. Vacationers can go wine tasting in these two regions and have a taste of the locally crafted drinks.

Eating and drinking plenty of water is important, which travelers can do in some of the tasting rooms. Some of the best wineries to explore include LDV Winery, Aridus Vineyards, and Salvatore Vineyards.

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While the city has a vast desert landscape, there is more to it than that. With several fun outdoor adventures and cultural, dining, and arts scenes, Phoenix guarantees a beautiful trip for all travelers.

Plus, several hotels and resorts cover various budgets that vacationers can choose from. Exploring Arizona's capital is definitely worth it.

15 Best Time To Visit Phoenix, Arizona

Phoenix, AZ, USA
PJ Gal-Szabo on Unsplash
Phoenix, AZ, USA

For a perfect blend of good weather and incredible outdoor opportunities, visit in winter or spring. This is typically between March and May and from December to February. During these times, the temperature is warm enough, and the bloom in the city's adorable desert landscape creates a spectacular sight.

Since sunny days are always present in Phoenix, vacationers should come prepared and pack sunscreen.

The city’s peak tourist season is between December and February (winter) and March through May (spring). These months are the most common time to travel because they coincide with the rainiest and coldest months everywhere else in the country, making the city a perfect choice for many tourists trying to escape the cold. Being the busiest months, travelers can expect higher prices in hotels, flights, restaurants, and even excursions. Plus, there will be road traffic, long queues, and higher fees to access local activities.

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18 Scenic Drives Near Phoenix, Arizona
Ready to explore Arizona by road? These scenic drives near Phoenix show you the right way.

If you are trying to visit Phoenix on a budget, visit in summer. It gives vacationers an incredible chance to experience the city’s extreme temperatures, which can be harsh but beautiful to experience.

Restaurants and hotels offer the best deals at this time, making it a great option for travelers looking to avoid the hefty prices that come with visiting in winter and spring.

Summer is full of beautiful activities, including some of the most interesting sports.

For foodies, fall is an amazing time to explore Phoenix, thanks to the Arizona Restaurant Week that occurs in September. The festival sees more than 100 eateries participating, offering incredible menu items at reasonable prices.

  • Best time for good weather and outdoor adventures: Winter and spring
  • Best time for budget travelers: Summer
  • Best time for foodies: Fall

16 Best Ways To Get Around Phoenix

Phoenix, Arizona
PJ Gal Szabo on  Unsplash
Phoenix, Arizona

Renting a car is the best way to get around Phoenix, especially when planning to explore attractions located away from the city and on day trips. Phoenix consists of some of the most scenic drives that travelers would want to explore. The city is easy to navigate through, and there is plenty of parking.

Another option is using the bus. Operated by Valley Metro, Phoenix's buses mainly run along the main traffic routes, so it may not be convenient for travelers planning to explore most parts of the city. But it is a perfect option for vacationers on a budget.

  • Cost of a bus: $2 per ride, $ for a full-day pass

The Scottsdale Trolley is a great option for tourists getting around the downtown area of Old Town Scottsdale. The Downtown Area Shuttle (DASH) offers transportation services in downtown Phoenix, and the FLASH (Free Local Area Shuttle) in Tempe provides services in the area around the Arizona State University Area.

If you are planning to explore the incredible nightlife scene of Phoenix, then taxis are a perfect option for getting back to the hotel. The prices can be hefty, but they are an excellent choice if going out. Rideshare services, including Uber and Lyft, are a great alternative to taxis if traveling on a budget.

Biking around Phoenix is great, and while travelers can’t rely on it to get around the whole city, there are certain areas that it’s well suited for. The Roosevelt Row Arts District is one of the top places to explore on a bike.

  • Cost of renting a bike: $7 per hour

17 Best Neighborhoods In Phoenix For Tourists

Dowtown Phoenix, Arizona

Downtown Phoenix: Best Option For First-Timers

Downtown Phoenix gives incredible access to some of the best sights in the city, several reliable transportation options, restaurants, and a perfect nightlife experience.

There are plenty of choices for accommodation. Some of the best places to visit downtown Phoenix include the Children's Museum of Phoenix, the Arizona Science Center, and the Arizona Capitol Museum.

Old Town Scottsdale: Best option For A Romantic Getaway

This neighborhood features several open-air malls, vibrant nightlife, restaurants, and some of the most beautiful boutiques. Vacationers going on romantic getaways can explore the beautiful romantic trails at the famous Desert Botanical Garden, located a short drive away.

Other places to explore are the Scottsdale Civic Center and the Museum of Contemporary Art.

Encanto: Best For Families And Budget Travelers

Encanto offers several pocket-friendly accommodation options for vacationers, making it an excellent choice for budget travelers. It is one of the safest neighborhoods, boasting some of the friendliest locals. The area has incredibly spectacular surroundings, and visitors get to enjoy downtown views and historic homes.

Paradise Valley: Best For Families

Paradise Valley also gives incredible access to top-rated attractions in the city. Thanks to the scenic natural surroundings, the place is full of fun outdoor activities. Paradise Valley hosts some of the finest resorts, offering a wide range of pampering services.

18 Where To Eat In Phoenix

Phoenix, Arizona
Photo by Rebecca Lawrence on Unsplash
Phoenix, Arizona

Breakfast

The Original Breakfast House: This restaurant is a perfect choice for an American breakfast. Some of the items on the menu include bacon & potato omelet, hog heaven, Popeye, and El Paso, mostly starting at $16. The eatery’s pancakes are mostly prepared with lemon, giving them an incredibly delicious taste.

Lunch

Cocina Madrigal: Offering an incredible mix of Mexican, Southwestern, and American cuisines, Cocina Madrigal is a perfect lunch option for vacationers. The menu includes Al Pastor and Oaxaca Shrimp. Tropical fish, Achiote Braised Chicken, wild mushroom enchiladas, and more.

Dinner

Rusconi's American Kitchen: Voted as one of the best restaurants, this restaurant doesn’t disappoint with an amazing dining experience. Dinner menu items include braised beef short ribs, roasted natural chicken, natural sea scallops, grilled sustainable salmon, and more.

Drinks

The Brill Line is a swanky car in Phoenix, serving cocktails, craft beers, wine, and tapas in an open-air concept structure. This is a fun spot for weekend outings and tends to be rowdier into the early hours. Menu items include Bee's Knees, Brill Old Fashioned, Freddy's Little Prick, Mojitos, Puff Puff Paloma, and more.

19 Where To Stay In Phoenix

Phoenix, Arizona
Photo by Eric Donzella on Unsplash
Phoenix, Arizona

Looking for a place to stay in Phoenix? There are many options at various price points.

22 Chelsea Place On The Park (Budget Option)

  • Address: Downtown Phoenix, Arizona
  • Amenities: City view, kitchen terrace/patio, outdoor dining area, air-conditioned, coffee machine, washing machine, tumble dryer, clothes dryer, and linens.

Travelers Inn (Budget Option)

  • Address: 5102 West Latham Street, Phoenix, AZ 85043
  • Amenities: Outdoor pool, Free Wi-Fi, Free parking, Business center, Wi-Fi available in all areas, Flat-screen TV

Hyatt Place Phoenix/Downtown (Mid-Tier Option)

  • Address: 150 West Adams Street, Phoenix, AZ 85007
  • Amenities: Fitness center, Restaurant, Bar/Lounge, Free Wi-Fi, Tea/coffee maker, Valet parking

Hilton Garden Inn Phoenix Airport North (Mid-Tier Option)

  • Address: 3838 East Van Buren Street, Phoenix, AZ 85008
  • Amenities: Outdoor pool, fitness center, restaurant, bar/lounge, free Wi-Fi, tea/coffee maker, coffee machine, free parking, airport shuttle, and business center.

Sheraton Phoenix Downtown (Luxury Option)

  • Address: 340 North 3rd Street, Phoenix, AZ 85004
  • Amenities: Outdoor pool, Fitness center, Restaurant, Bar/Lounge, Room service, Tea/coffee maker

Royal Palms Resort & Spa (Luxury Option)

  • Address: 5200 East Camelback Road, Phoenix, AZ 85018
  • Amenities: Outdoor pool, spa & wellness center, fitness center, restaurant, bar/lounge, room service, bicycle rental, free Wi-Fi, and tea/coffee maker.
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20 Tips For Visiting Phoenix, Arizona

Phoenix, Arizona
Gabriel Valdez on Unsplash
Phoenix, Arizona
  • Expect long, hot summers and mild winters. Boasting a vast desert landscape, Phoenix's climate is mostly arid, and summers are usually hot and long. Actually, the city's summer temperatures are the highest in the U.S., and winters are not as harsh as in other metropolitan cities.
  • There are several cultural sites in Phoenix. The city is known to have several cultural heritage sites. There are more than 22 Native American tribes in the state. Some of the tribal areas are found in Phoenix and are a perfect place to experience the beautiful cultures and customs of different people. It is important to observe the rules and customs guiding the cultures.
  • The best way to get around is by car. Renting a car is the best way to navigate the city as the public transportation system does not cover all the areas in the city.
  • Stay safe when exploring the areas around the Grand Canyon. Beware of thunderstorms and flash flooding. If visiting in summer, tourists must wear sunscreen, hats, and light clothing. Being mostly deserted, suffering dehydration is common, so travelers must ensure they have enough water when hiking.
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