Your Guide to Phoenix, Arizona

Phoenix is the heart of the Valley of the Sun. It is the fifth-largest metro area in the US, but this city does not enthusiastically embrace the hustle and bustle of its counterparts. Instead, sunshine and saguaro cacti rule supreme, setting the scene for an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise.

Hikers, bikers, golfers, and kayakers can find adventure anywhere in the Valley, from the White Tank Mountains on the west to the Salt River on the east. Moreover, poolside is rarely a bad place to be in Phoenix, especially as your Instagram feed fills up with images from the colder regions. Remember, every time a Phoenix local comments, “At least it’s a dry heat,” enjoy a sip of your margarita!

The pink-streaked sunsets will leave you in awe, so take the time to savor them before diving into Phoenix’s buzzing nightlife. And, please, don’t forget to hydrate!

Duration of Your Stay in Phoenix

For your first trip, you can cover a lot of ground in three days. If time permits, adding a fourth or even a fifth day for a road trip to the breathtaking hiking trails in Sedona or the charming food scene in Tucson could enhance your overall experience.

When is the Best Time to Visit Phoenix?

Let’s get the obvious part out of the way: summers are extremely hot in Phoenix, averaging 110°F (43°C). It’s advisable to avoid the peak heat by visiting between late October to early May while packing layers as winter afternoons can end up being quite warm.

Luxury seekers can find compelling reasons to visit during the summer, as many resorts and spas offer significant discounts due to the slower season. Meanwhile, golf enthusiasts can score discounted tee times at some of the best courses in the West Coast; nevertheless, it’s wise to book the earliest slots to avoid the extreme afternoon heat.

Unlike many places in the US, Phoenix is at its best in winter, with sunny skies and pleasant temperatures hovering between 60-70°F (15-21°C). Major events, such as the WM Phoenix Open in February, attract visitors from all over the country. If your goal is to be in the middle of the action, timing your visit accordingly is crucial.

Getting to and Navigating Phoenix

Phoenix spans a vast suburban area, so budgeting for a rental car is essential, especially if you plan to explore various attractions around the city. Upon landing at Sky Harbor International, securing a rental car is relatively easy.

While there are walkable areas like Old Town Scottsdale and downtown Phoenix, many parts of the Greater Phoenix area are best navigated by car. In fact, studies have shown that Phoenix ranks low in walkability compared to other major cities.

If choosing not to rent a car, rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are readily available and cover most areas in the city.

Top Activities in Phoenix

Spending time outdoors is imperative when visiting. Hiking and golfing rank among the most popular activities, allowing you to immerse yourself in Arizona’s natural beauty. For instance, Camelback Mountain offers challenging trails paired with breathtaking views, making it an optimal choice for those seeking adventure.

Should you wish for something less strenuous, a visit to the Desert Botanical Garden is highly recommended. This beautiful garden features over 50,000 plants, including rare and endangered species. You can stroll along flat trails while enjoying scenic views. Consider dining at Gertrude’s, nestled within the garden, to cap off your visit with a delightful meal. Remember to plan ahead, as this popular spot often requires reservations.

Experience Culture in Phoenix

If you have flexible travel dates, consider visiting during the first Friday of the month for a unique art walk in downtown Phoenix’s Roosevelt Row. This self-guided stroll showcases local art, live music, and various food options. Moreover, many bars and restaurants lining the street provide opportunities to unwind with delicious beverages and local cuisine.

The vibrant nightlife in Old Town Scottsdale offers a plethora of dining and entertainment options, making it the perfect place to cap off an eventful day.

Budgeting for Your Phoenix Trip

Phoenix presents a range of accommodation costs, making it accessible for various budgets. Here’s a general breakdown:

• Basic room for two, off-peak: $120-170 per night

• Basic room for two, peak weekend: $215-290 per night

• High-end hotel room, off-peak: $200-350 per night

• High-end hotel room, peak weekend: $400-1,100 per night

• Daily resort fees: $50-55

• Airbnb: $100-130 per night

• Coffee: $3-6

• Sandwich: $12-15

• Dinner for two: $60-100 (or more)

• Beer: $6-9

• Cocktail: $13-16

• Sunscreen, travel size: $5

• Bottled water: $2-4