1. Overview: Explore the best attractions in Phoenix, Arizona, from museums to natural parks, ensuring an unforgettable travel experience. 2. Activities: Discover the top activities that showcase the vibrant cultural life and stunning desert scenery. 3. FAQs: Get essential travel tips and information for a smooth visit.
Phoenix is one of Arizona’s best cities – there’s no doubting that. Phoenix has bustling city life, art galleries galore, and some world-class museums and day trip opportunities, including the chance to head out into the Sonoran Desert. The contrast between desert surroundings and vibrant city culture is a tourist dream. And if you are looking for things to do in Phoenix, just know you won’t be disappointed. This city has incredible entertainment, from the Phoenix nightlife scene to its potential road-tripping day trips through desert scenery and beyond.
Best Things to Do in Phoenix
This guide will introduce you to the very best things to do in Phoenix, Arizona. As the capital of its state, there’s just so much to do and see in Phoenix. You should take in as much inspiration as possible before settling on a single itinerary. In the region called ‘Valley of the Sun’, Phoenix is known for its desert setting and year-round sunshine. Get ready for some serious Phoenix itinerary inspiration.
Planning Your Trip To Phoenix Right Now?
Below are some of the top tours in Phoenix. Don’t forget to plan ahead when visiting Arizona!
- Morning Hot Air Balloon Flight Over Phoenix (Most Popular)
- Centipede Tour – Guided Arizona Desert Tour by ATV (Do Not Miss)
- Salt River Kayaking Trip (Likely to Sell Out)
- Small-Group or Private Grand Canyon with Sedona Tour from Phoenix (Best Deal)
- Half Day Phoenix Brew Tour (Top Fan Favorite)
1. Arizona Capitol Museum
The Arizona Capitol Museum is one of the most popular things to do in Arizona, and if you enjoy political history, it is an absolute must. This Arizona Museum is set in the state capitol building and it is entirely free to visit. On set days – Monday to Friday between 9 am and 5 pm – you can tour the museum to learn more about Arizona and its state heritage. As far as free attractions go, the museum is pretty impressive, and it’s nice to say that you’ve ticked off visiting the State Capitol Building.
The US government’s history is always fascinating to learn about, and Arizona has some particularly gripping tales. As an extra bonus, this is also a top indoor attraction in Phoenix, meaning you can escape from the heat while staying entertained.
2. Phoenix Art Museum
It is nice to wander through areas of street art and enjoy smaller art galleries, but when it comes to world-class museums, large-scale art museums just offer a different experience altogether. Phoenix Art Museum is the largest art museum in the southwestern US. It is a staggering collection of international pieces, including more than 20,000 artifacts. Phoenix Art Museum is mesmerizing, and you should allow at least a few hours to scratch its collection’s surface.
If you are an art enthusiast, Phoenix Art Museum is a definite highlight for your trip to the Arizona capital. But even art newbies will appreciate the variety of the collection and the regular special events that the museum holds. Keep an eye out for the schedule online, as you can attend special events ranging from workshops to film screenings and lectures.
3. Legoland Discovery Center Arizona
Who doesn’t love Legoland? This attraction in Phoenix is heavily catered towards children. Still, we are sure some parents will be happy that they can attend as well. The Legoland Discovery Center has a massive indoor play area with two rides. Children can play and create in ten different Lego build zones. In contrast, older children can enjoy screenings at the 4D cinema and even Lego factory tours. The whole experience is super niche and one of the top family-friendly things to do in Phoenix.
Traveling to Phoenix with young children can be daunting in summer when the weather is notoriously hot. The Legoland Discovery Center is an ideal midday solution for your itinerary. Spend the hottest part of the day in Legoland with air-conditioning, then head out for some other sightseeing during cooler times. Grab your tickets here.
4. Children’s Museum of Phoenix
If family-friendly things to do in Phoenix are what you are after, the Children’s Museum of Phoenix is your next best option. This museum offers entertainment for children aged 0 to 10 years of age, and it has special rooms designed to prompt engagement and enhance development. Fun and creative, the Children’s Museum is one of the top three rated in the US. If you want to escape the heat with an indoor attraction while providing your child with educational fun, the Children’s Museum of Phoenix is ideal. The museum has over 48,000 square feet of space and 300 play areas, so you have tons to explore together.
The Children’s Museum of Phoenix is in the city’s downtown area. If you stay centrally, it is easily accessible on foot or by public transport – exactly what you need with children in tow.
5. Butterfly Wonderland
Butterfly Wonderland is located just outside of Phoenix, in the major city of Scottsdale. It is a breeze to reach by car, taking just 25 minutes from Phoenix city center. This beautiful attraction is a massive indoor rainforest habitat that holds some serious aesthetic allure. You wander along little trails in a huge conservatory-style building, with extra attractions along the way like aquarium and reptilian exhibits. The main draw is the butterflies though. Butterfly Wonderland lives up to its name, and you can spot hundreds and hundreds of butterflies in the huge enclosure.
This butterfly park is the largest in the country, so get ready to be really wowed by the variety of specimens and the scale of the enclosure. Walking through the butterfly enclosure is a genuinely special experience, whether you are visiting as a family or just as adults. Once you are done, you can visit the gift shop and café. We’d recommend combining Butterfly Wonderland with a few other Scottsdale attractions too, like Scottsdale Old Town.
6. Hot Air Balloon Ride
Hot air balloon rides are easily one of the most exciting things to do in Phoenix. There isn’t much dreamier than floating through the clouds at a slow pace, and if you haven’t hot air ballooned before, know that the experience is almost hypnotic. You barely realize you are rising, and the movement is incredibly smooth. And, of course, you get the best views possible – especially considering that Phoenix is surrounded by striking desert scenery.
You can find tons of hot air balloon experiences in Phoenix. The most popular experience is a sunrise hot air balloon ride with breakfast included once you hit the ground again. Sometimes, these packages also include a luxury champagne breakfast. To treat yourself, a hot air balloon ride above Phoenix is the perfect way to splurge on your visit to Arizona. It is one of the most fun things to do in Phoenix and definitely has a novel allure.
7. Phoenix Mountains Preserve
The Phoenix Mountains Preserve is where to head for your insight into Arizona’s desert landscape. This reserve offers typical southwestern experiences, with spiky cacti and mountain biking tracks, making it a favorite for outdoor enthusiasts. You can choose some mountains for summit hikes, and everything is well signposted and marked. The Phoenix Mountains Reserve has some stunning viewpoints, too.
The reserve is just a 15-minute drive outside of Phoenix city center, which is practically unheard of when you think of major cities and their closest ‘wild spaces’. The convenience of visiting the Phoenix Mountains Reserve makes it an impressive addition to your itinerary, even if you are rushing to cram in a short visit.
8. Paradise Valley
Paradise Valley is a town just 25 minutes outside of Phoenix city center by car, or just under 2 hours on public transport. It is famous for its luxury golf courses, so any golf enthusiasts should note it down as a must when planning their Phoenix itinerary. The three main golf courses are Paradise Valley Country Club, the Short Course at Mountain Shadows, and Camelback Golf Club. You can make bookings online for each course separately, ensuring you have a spot secured.
The town is the best place to visit if you love golf. You can book lessons or just book a slot for a laidback game. The scenery from these courses is stunning, as you are just in the wake of Camelback and Mummy Mountain.
9. Taliesin West
Taliesin West is a more unusual attraction in Phoenix but is momentous nonetheless. The museum was the winter home of Frank Lloyd Wright, a famed architect, designer, educator, and writer. There isn’t much Frank Lloyd Wright couldn’t do, and his legacy lives on with guided tours of his old home. Taliesin West also serves as the headquarters for the Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation.
The Taliesin Institute attracts students and scholars to study at Taliesin West through a program created by the Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation to educate future architects, designers, and thought leaders on organic architecture principles. The program takes place at the two Taliesin properties: Taliesin in Spring Green, Wis., and Taliesin West in Scottsdale, Ariz.
Walking the exhibits is a brilliant way to appreciate Frank Lloyd Wright’s impact on the architectural and design industry. It is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site and likened to a ‘desert laboratory’ on its official website.
10. Grand Canyon
Arizona is nicknamed the Grand Canyon state, and visiting the Grand Canyon is obviously one of the best things to do in Arizona – if not the US. The Phoenix to Sedona drive is routinely tackled as a day-long road trip, taking you past the Montezuma Castle National Monument and numerous roadside attractions. While the total drive is 3.5 hours one way, you’ll be well-entertained with lots of potential stop-off points to break up the driving. If you rent a car with multiple drivers on the insurance, it is a highly feasible, albeit ambitious, day trip from Phoenix.
At the Grand Canyon, you can enjoy one of the rim hikes, check out the best viewpoints, and visit the visitor center. It is an iconic attraction for a reason. If you have a spare day in your itinerary, we suggest carving out time for an all-day visit. You need at least a few hours at the Grand Canyon, so we’d set off as early as possible to maximize your time there. If you don’t want to rent a car, you can jump on this all-day tour.
11. Phoenix Raceway
The Phoenix Raceway is a fabulous place to visit if there’s an event. The racetrack has a seating capacity for up to 65,000 people, and if you are lucky, your visit to Phoenix will coincide with one of the car races. It is exhilarating if you’ve never seen a car race before. Keep an eye on the schedule to catch some exhilarating ‘event’ experiences in Phoenix. You can even splurge on tickets with pit access for a more exclusive experience.
The Phoenix Raceway is just 30 minutes away by car, making it a reasonably convenient distance from the city center. Be sure to book tickets as far in advance as possible, as the races are super popular and quickly sell out.
12. Goldfield Ghost Town
Goldfield Ghost Town is a dive into Wild West-style history. You are immersed in a reconstructed 1890s town full of actors, tours, and lingering heritage with a gold mine that you can enter. Goldfield Ghost Town allows you to embrace history in Phoenix and keeps you engaged with so much action – including Old West gunfights. This attraction includes a history museum onsite for anyone wanting a more traditional history sightseeing experience but presents history in an engaging, radical way.
Goldfield Ghost Town is just 50 minutes from Phoenix city center by car, making it easy to fit into your visit. You’ll just need to organize a car rental, and we’d suggest allowing half a day or a full day to fully appreciate this impressive attraction. As a National Historic Landmark, Goldfield Ghost Town is exceptional and deserves a substantial amount of your time. You can also jump on this day tour if you want to save a little time.
13. Sonoran Desert
The Sonoran Desert is a vast area, and many attractions are already located in this desert region – even Phoenix itself is classed as located within the Sonoran Desert. To have a ‘real’ desert experience, you might wish to embark on a guided day trip to see the area’s highlights and get more remote. Taking a specific Sonoran tour can help you understand the region better, learning about its importance in Native American history, culture, and wildlife.
14. Sahuaro Ranch Park
Sahuaro Ranch Park is an absolute gem of an attraction in Phoenix. The old ranch has historic grounds that have been protected and transformed into play areas and relaxing green spaces. Children can enjoy the playpark, while adults can wander the rose gardens and spot the peacocks that strut throughout the property in bold blue. The ranch park is a brilliant all-rounder for a fun place to visit in Phoenix, and it is hard not to love, with its historical element adding more excitement than your standard park experience.
15. Arizona Heritage Center
The Arizona Heritage Center provides a bite-sized taste of Phoenix’s and Arizona’s story. The museum covers everything about the 5 Cs and how they shaped the development of Phoenix as we know it. The Cs include copper, citrus, cattle, climate, and cotton, which contributed to the Phoenix economy’s boom. The Heritage Center offers a short, sweet, and simple introduction to Phoenix’s history without overwhelming exhibits, making it perfect for a quick visit. Plus, it is located right next to Papago Park, allowing for refreshments, hiking, and other attractions afterward.
16. Arizona Diamondbacks
If you are looking for fun during your visit to Phoenix, locals and visitors alike love heading down to Chase Field to see the Arizona Diamondbacks. This iconic baseball team plays in Major League Baseball, and seeing a game is one of the best things to do in Phoenix. The baseball season runs from late March to early October, providing the chance to catch a Diamondbacks game during your visit.
Watching any sporting event is a brilliant way to engage in the local culture, and Phoenix and the Diamondbacks offer that experience brilliantly. Don’t miss the opportunity to check out a game while in town.
17. Penske Racing Museum
Penske Racing Museum houses more than a dozen Penske team cars, making it worth a visit for car racing enthusiasts. It is entirely free to enter, allowing you an up-close view of actual race cars that have retired to be admired and polished. The museum also features a wealth of memorabilia, including trophies and awards, celebrating the racing heritage in Phoenix. Getting close to cars like Lamborghinis and Aston Martins adds a real wow factor, even for non-car fans.
Reaching the museum is an easy drive to North Phoenix, taking about 30 minutes from the city center or just over 2 hours by public transport.
18. Rosson House Museum at Heritage Square
Rosson House Museum at Heritage Square is a stunning local history museum with a striking exterior. The Victorian home dates back to 1895 and boasts a dramatic gold roof with turrets that stand out in the Phoenix suburbs. The house preserves the history and lifestyle of early colonizers in Phoenix, showcasing their living conditions. The museum offers regular tours of around 60 minutes, giving visitors a closer look at the house’s interior and offering insights into Phoenix’s history.
Guided tours are required, as independent exploration is not permitted – this ensures you get a richer experience with a knowledgeable guide. The museum is slightly off the primary tourist radar but is most definitely worth the visit.
19. Papago Park
Visiting Papago Park is an absolute top-tier addition to your must-do list in Phoenix. The park spans 1,500 acres and offers numerous attractions, including the Phoenix Zoo, red rock formations, scenic hiking trails, and the classic Hole in the Rock attraction. The park’s proximity to the city center makes it bizarre yet beautiful, and you should take full advantage of it.
Papago Park is free to enter and open daily. Be sure to carve out time to visit because it contains many attractions for you to explore.
20. Lake Pleasant Regional Park
Lake Pleasant Regional Park is a beautiful place to cool off in the Valley of the Sun. It is a hotspot for fishing, swimming, and boating – a haven for avoiding the heat of Phoenix city center. You pay a single entrance fee per vehicle and can easily spend a whole day at Lake Pleasant. If you plan on swimming, visit a designated swimming area. There are popular swim beaches in summer, so expect to share the fun with locals.
Driving to Lake Pleasant takes around 45 minutes from central Phoenix. This drive is well worth it; being inland, Phoenix offers freshwater beaches in a summer setting. As a side note, you can pass the Pioneer Arizona Living History Museum on your way, so consider combining both attractions.
21. Pueblo Grande Museum
Pueblo Grande Museum is now officially named the S’edav Va’aki Museum. It is an open-air museum that preserves the Hohokam people’s former home. This pre-Columbian site contains remains of a village and irrigation canals, marking Phoenix’s largest preserved archaeological site. The archaeological site itself dates back over 1,500 years, showcasing the ingenuity of early humanity.
S’edav Va’aki Museum boasts three galleries and a theatre, ensuring a wealth of information and historical immersion. The archaeological site can be accessed easily from the museum via a short trail. Here, you can view a mix of ruins and replicated houses that provide insight into how the Hohokam people lived. Unsurprisingly, it is listed as a National Historic Landmark.
22. Mystery Castle
The story of Mystery Castle is the most wholesome in Phoenix. A father built the castle for his daughter, which comprises 18 rooms and 13 fireplaces built from stone – the ultimate castle for a father’s princess. The princess, Mary Lou Gulley, passed away in 2010, after decades of giving tours of her father’s magical creation, living in the castle full-time.
The Mystery Castle Foundation continues to operate the castle as a tourist attraction in her and her father’s memory. It is a touching Phoenix attraction and a must-visit for anyone who loves a wholesome story. Note that the castle was undergoing repairs after extensive vandalism in 2022. Be sure to ring ahead to confirm opening times and construction status.
23. Old Town Scottsdale
Scottsdale is a city just east of Phoenix, with the beautiful Old Town Scottsdale neighborhood at its center. This is one of the best day trips from Phoenix, requiring only 30 minutes by car or 1.5 hours by public transport. This area is drenched in history, entirely pedestrian-friendly, and full of museums and beautiful independent restaurants and shops. Old Town Scottsdale is where to take a deep breath and reconnect with a quieter pace of life in Arizona.
We love Old Town Scottsdale’s collection of attractions and how easily you can walk between them. Note, though, that the ‘quiet pace of life’ turns into a nightlife hub as the sun sets.
24. Tempe Town Lake
Tempe Town Lake is serene – there’s no denying it. This massive reservoir is set in the nearby city of Tempe and is famous as a community area of natural beauty within a residential neighborhood. You can take a leisurely walk around the perimeter or go fishing. Tempe Town Lake is a beautiful place to unwind outside the hustle of Phoenix city center. It is especially popular during sunset and sunrise when the pink sky is stunning against the city skyline and Mill Avenue Bridge.
Tempe Town Lake is just 20 minutes away from Phoenix by car, making it a short journey. If you won’t be driving in Phoenix, it is easy to take two buses and the rail service, reaching it in just over an hour. This spot is perfect for nature time after a jaunt in the busy city.
25. Camelback Mountain
Camelback Mountain is one of the most scenic places near Phoenix. If you can manage an early morning start, you should make the summit climb for sunrise. The peak gets its name from its camel hump appearance, but it is also famous for its beautiful views over the city. There are two trails to choose from if you want to reach the summit: the 2.5-mile Echo Canyon Trail or the 2.6-mile Cholla Trail. Both tracks take about 2-3 hours to complete, with the Echo Canyon Trail involving more ‘rock climbing’ in its ascent and relying on handrails for safer navigation. At the summit, you are rewarded with 360-degree views of Phoenix and its breathtaking surroundings.
Camelback Mountain is a challenge and not recommended for beginners. Ensure you are comfortable with steep climbs and strenuous ascents over exposed rock surfaces. It’s conveniently reachable from Phoenix, taking just 20 minutes by car to reach the trailhead. If outdoor adventures excite you, Camelback Mountain stands out as one of the best things to do in Phoenix.
26. Hall of Flame Fire Museum
The Hall of Flame Fire Museum is another niche but impactful museum in Phoenix. It displays fire engines and history from 1725 to 1969 – a substantial period. Understanding this firefighter history in Phoenix is essential, especially since many firefighters are local heroes. You’ll discover how firefighting technology has evolved over the years and benefit from fire safety training programs aimed at adults and children.
The Hall of Flame Museum is just 20 minutes from the city center by car, making it easy to combine with visits to Papago Park or the Desert Botanical Garden. A visit might even arm you with lifesaving skills.
27. Heard Museum
Heard Museum is an art museum dedicated to preserving Native American art. The museum does not limit itself to one tribe’s art and heritage, instead aiming to preserve all tribes’ artwork and legacy in the US. This collection is incredibly important for the preservation of culture and history. If you want to embrace and support indigenous history while in Phoenix, the Heard Museum is a brilliant place to start. Here you can learn about Native American history and admire all the varied artifacts.”
Guided tours are available, enhancing your understanding of the artifacts and the depth of America’s Native American heritage. There’s also a café onsite for refreshments after your visit, making Heard Museum a high-quality and insightful addition to your Phoenix itinerary.
28. Enchanted Island Amusement Park
The Enchanted Island Amusement Park is one of the most fun things to do in Phoenix. The theme park is family-friendly and offers many games and rides, including a carousel and splash pad. If you have young children with you during your visit to Phoenix, keep the Enchanted Island Amusement Park in mind. Seasonal events provide extra charm, like Easter egg hunts that are especially popular with the kids.
The park is just a 10-minute drive from Phoenix city center, or alternatively, 40 minutes by bus. It is easy to access and provides lighthearted, family-friendly fun. You can simply turn up to buy entrance tickets – no online purchase needed.
29. Japanese Friendship Garden
The Japanese Friendship Garden is small but mighty. Covering just 3.5 acres, this traditional Japanese garden is one of the most cultural outdoor spaces in Phoenix. The garden features a stunning 12-foot waterfall and a beautiful koi pond, enhancing its serene atmosphere. There’s a teahouse and tea garden where you can partake in a soothing tea ritual experience.
The garden opens Tuesday to Sunday between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m., with an entry fee of around $10, making it one of the most budget-friendly outdoor activities in Phoenix. Positioned in Downtown Phoenix, it’s a breeze to get there. For a calming way to start your day, a walk in the Japanese Friendship Garden is a beautiful choice.
30. Arizona Science Center
The Arizona Science Center is a brilliant indoor attraction in Phoenix. The entry price might seem steep at around $20 per person. However, the number of exhibits you access for that price offers excellent value for money. You can easily spend three or four hours there, as the multiple floors and categories of exhibits are diverse. Explore everything from a planetarium to an IMAX theater and attend demos on topics ranging from lasers to mummies.
The Arizona Science Center is an exciting addition to your Phoenix itinerary; it undoubtedly ticks many boxes regarding engaging exhibits.
31. Musical Instrument Museum
The Musical Instrument Museum is a unique gem in Phoenix, housing instruments from approximately 200 countries and boasting more than 6,800 individual instruments. If you love music or international culture, this museum is one of the best options when exploring world-class attractions in Phoenix. It is consistently ranked as a top Phoenix attraction on TripAdvisor and features specific instruments you can try your hand at playing.
Both engaging and interactive, the vast variety of instruments on display makes it an enriching place to stop by. Adding music to your itinerary is a great way to broaden your Phoenix experience. The Musical Instrument Museum is in North Phoenix, so you’ll either need to catch a few buses or drive for about 30 minutes to reach this attraction.
32. Phoenix Bat Cave
The Phoenix Bat Cave is a fascinating natural phenomenon where visitors gather to watch a flock of bats fly out at dusk. People gather near a footpath and fencing to watch the bats as they burst forth. Over 5,000 Mexican free-tailed bats inhabit the manmade tunnel, providing a unique wildlife experience. Enjoy the designated bat-watching area while snapping photos, as long as you remain quiet to avoid stressing them out. These bats are protected, making it essential to respect the area.
Located just outside the city center, the Phoenix Bat Cave is most accessible if you have a car. The experience is free and certainly one of the most unique things to do in Phoenix.
33. South Mountain Park and Preserve
South Mountain Park and Preserve is a top destination for those seeking wild spaces. The park and preserve covers over 16,000 acres, with rugged terrain blending desert and mountainous scrubs, offering striking views. For those who enjoy cacti and mountain scenery – plus stunning views of the Phoenix skyline – South Mountain Park and Preserve is a must-visit. You can explore by horseback riding with the Arizona Horse Company, walking or biking. Allow at least half a day to get a taste of what this park offers.
If accessibility is a concern, know that there’s a road leading to Dobbin’s Lookout, a gorgeous viewpoint offering expansive views over Phoenix. For easily accessible views, Dobbin’s Lookout ranks among the prettiest things to do in Phoenix.
34. Desert Botanical Garden
What is not to love about a Desert Botanical Garden? This garden spans 140 acres, showcasing 50,000 plants, making it one of the finest places to visit to experience the desert in inner-city Phoenix. With a network of scenic hiking trails, you can easily spend a few hours walking the grounds. It’s a lovely place to visit early in the morning before the heat sets in. The garden opens at 7 a.m. every day, making it an ideal spot for a pre-breakfast walk, followed by a meal at the onsite restaurant or café.
Technically, the Desert Botanical Garden is part of Papago Park. However, it is such a fantastic attraction that we had to include it as a standalone point of interest. It is easily reached too, only taking 20 minutes to get there by public transport.
Things to Do in Phoenix: FAQs
As you can see, there are so many fun things to do in Phoenix. Before you plan your itinerary, though, check out these top FAQs on visiting Phoenix, Arizona, ensuring you gather all vital snippets of information that could make or break your trip.
How to Get to Phoenix
The easiest way to get to Phoenix for most visitors is to fly. Phoenix International Airport is exceptionally well-connected to Downtown Phoenix by public transport, only 10 minutes away by car. Phoenix has direct connections to hundreds of global cities and is served by frequent flights from American Airlines, Delta Airlines, and Southwest Airlines.
If you are already in the US, consider reaching Phoenix by rail. While Phoenix isn’t directly on the Amtrak lines, it connects with the Thruway Connecting Services. This means you can catch Amtrak connections at Flagstaff or Maricopa, linking to Las Vegas, San Diego, San Francisco, Chicago, and even New York routes. The options are nearly endless. Comfortable rail cabins are also available for an added touch of luxury, resembling a hotel on wheels.
Coaches are another option, with Greyhound services being reputable for linking all major US cities, including Phoenix. Additionally, consider a road trip to Phoenix if you have extra time; this allows you to maximize sightseeing. Check out our complete guide on the ultimate Arizona road trip here.
Where to Stay in Phoenix
Choosing where to stay in Phoenix is a great question, with many beautiful hotels and neighborhoods available. For first-time visitors, aim for Downtown Phoenix or Midtown for the highest accessibility to major attractions.
Budget:
Surestay Hotel By Western Phoenix Airport serves as the most budget-friendly accommodation option, rating above 7.0 on Booking.com. While located further from the city center, it offers comfortable budget accommodation worth the location sacrifice.
Mid-Range:
Hampton Inn and Suites Phoenix Downtown is an excellent mid-range choice that provides amenities like a fitness center and parking in a prime downtown location.
Luxury:
This luxury apartment is the perfect lavish base while in Phoenix. Enjoy a self-catered experience with all the comforts of home, combined with a fantastic location in Midtown Phoenix.
Where to Eat in Phoenix
You may not know it, but Arizona’s best-known food is the Apache trout. However, it also excels at Mexican cuisine, especially chimichangas – a burrito-style dish. The list of dishes and drinks you should try is extensive, including Route 66 beer, Sonoran hot dogs, and fry bread. Ensure you dedicate a significant portion of your itinerary to food and drink tasting.
Looking for top dining recommendations in Phoenix? Check out these highly-rated spots:
Carolina’s Mexican Food: Tasty Mexican cuisine with specials like chimichangas.
Fry Bread House: A beloved restaurant serving dishes based on Native American fry bread.
Wrigley Mansion & Geordie’s: A mansion-restaurant founded by William Wrigley JR.
Best Time to Visit Phoenix
The best time to visit Phoenix, Arizona, is often debated – no pun intended. Due to the intense heat, winter serves as the peak season, with summer being the low. This timing might differ from what many expect. People who want to enjoy the desert, outdoor activities, or visit places like the Wildlife World Zoo generally head to Phoenix from October to May. Meanwhile, June to September typically sees fewer visitors, making it ideal for those wanting to avoid crowds or prefer indoor (i.e., air-conditioned) attractions.
We’d recommend May or September as shoulder seasons that balance fewer crowds with milder temperatures, depending on the activities you want to engage in while in Phoenix.
As you can see, Phoenix is pretty special. The capital undoubtedly has some of the best things to do in Arizona. Whether you stop by the Desert Botanical Garden or the Musical Instrument Museum, you’ll enjoy every moment.
Are you traveling to see more of the US after? Here’s where to stay in San Francisco if you love boutique hotels and where to stay in San Diego. There are many fun things to do in Phoenix, but heading off on a road trip or a quick flight to other leading destinations is the perfect way to round off your US trip.
Plan your Next Trip To Arizona With these Resources
- Phoenix to Sedona Drive: What to See and Do on Your Day Trip
- 13 Best Hotels in Sedona, Arizona
- 10 Best Cities in Arizona To Visit
- 33 Best Things to Do in Arizona
- Arizona Road Trip – The Ultimate 10 Day Itinerary
Travel Planning Resources
Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these recommendations that we trust.
Your Flights: Start planning your trip by searching for the best flights on Skyscanner.
Your Hotel: Find competitive hotel prices with these two providers. For those in Europe, check Booking.com, and for everyone else, use TripAdvisor.
Apartment Rentals: Get the best deals on apartment rentals with VRBO.
Travel Insurance: Don’t leave home without it! Here’s what we recommend:
- Safety Wing – For occasional travelers.
- Medjet – For global air medical transport and travel security.
Your Activities: For walking tours, skip-the-line tickets, private guides, and more, we suggest Get Your Guide.
Need more help planning your trip? Check out our Resources Page, featuring great companies we trust when we travel.
