Phoenix, Arizona's vibrant capital, offers an incredible blend of desert adventures, world-class dining, and stunning natural beauty. Whether you're seeking outdoor thrills or cultural experiences, this desert metropolis has something for everyone. Here's your ultimate guide to the best things to do in Phoenix.
1. Hike Camelback Mountain
No visit to Phoenix is complete without conquering Camelback Mountain. This iconic landmark offers two challenging trails: Echo Canyon and Cholla. The Echo Canyon Trail is the more popular route, featuring steep inclines and rock scrambles that reward hikers with breathtaking 360-degree views of the Valley of the Sun.
Pro Tip:
Start your hike early morning (before 7 AM) to avoid the intense desert heat. Bring plenty of water, wear sunscreen, and allow 2-3 hours for the round trip.
2. Explore Desert Botanical Garden
Discover the beauty of desert flora at the Desert Botanical Garden in Papago Park. With over 50,000 plants, including rare desert species and stunning cacti, this 140-acre garden is a photographer's paradise. Don't miss the seasonal butterfly exhibit and the evening Electric Desert light shows.
The garden features several themed trails, including the Desert Discovery Loop Trail and the Plants & People of the Sonoran Desert Trail, offering insights into how desert communities have thrived for centuries.
3. Visit Taliesin West
Architecture enthusiasts will be mesmerized by Taliesin West, Frank Lloyd Wright's winter home and architectural laboratory. This UNESCO World Heritage Site showcases Wright's organic architecture philosophy, seamlessly blending structures with the desert landscape. Guided tours provide fascinating insights into Wright's vision and design principles.
4. Experience Old Town Scottsdale
Just minutes from downtown Phoenix, Old Town Scottsdale offers a perfect blend of Western heritage and modern sophistication. Browse over 80 art galleries, shop at boutique stores, and indulge in exceptional Southwest cuisine. The area comes alive on Thursday evenings during the Scottsdale ArtWalk.
Must-visit spots include the Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art, the Western Spirit: Scottsdale's Museum of the West, and the many authentic Mexican restaurants serving incredible tacos and margaritas.
5. Discover South Mountain Park
As one of the largest municipal parks in the United States, South Mountain Park and Preserve offers over 16,000 acres of desert wilderness. With more than 50 miles of trails, it's a haven for hikers, mountain bikers, and horseback riders. The Dobbins Lookout provides stunning sunset views over the entire valley.
6. Tour the Musical Instrument Museum
The Musical Instrument Museum (MIM) is a world-renowned institution featuring instruments from nearly 200 countries. Interactive exhibits allow visitors to see and hear thousands of instruments, from ancient artifacts to modern creations. The Artist Gallery showcases instruments played by legends like Elvis Presley and John Lennon.
7. Relax at Papago Park
Papago Park offers unique red sandstone formations and easy hiking trails perfect for families. Visit the iconic Hole-in-the-Rock formation for panoramic views, explore the Phoenix Zoo, or tour the adjacent Desert Botanical Garden. The park also features fishing lagoons and picnic areas.
8. Experience Roosevelt Row Arts District
Roosevelt Row is Phoenix's creative heart, featuring vibrant street art, independent galleries, and trendy cafes. First Fridays bring the community together with art walks, live music, and food trucks. This revitalized neighborhood showcases Phoenix's emerging cultural scene and innovative spirit.
9. Cool Off at Arizona Science Center
Perfect for families and science enthusiasts, the Arizona Science Center features over 300 hands-on exhibits. Explore everything from space exploration to human anatomy. The center also houses a planetarium and a giant-screen theater showing educational films.
10. Day Trip to Sedona
Just two hours north of Phoenix, Sedona offers stunning red rock formations and spiritual energy. Popular activities include hiking Cathedral Rock, visiting the Chapel of the Holy Cross, and browsing the uptown arts district. The scenic drive through Oak Creek Canyon is worth the trip alone.
Where to Stay in Phoenix
When visiting Phoenix, choose accommodations that put you close to the action. Boulevard Stays offers designer stays throughout the Phoenix metro area, providing the perfect home base for your desert adventures. Our properties feature modern amenities, local design touches, and easy access to hiking trails, dining, and cultural attractions.
Best Time to Visit Phoenix
The ideal time to visit Phoenix is from November to April when temperatures are mild and perfect for outdoor activities. Winter months (December-February) offer daytime temperatures in the 60s-70s°F, ideal for hiking and exploring. Spring brings wildflower blooms throughout the desert.
Summer (June-August) brings extreme heat with temperatures exceeding 110°F, but also lower hotel rates and fewer crowds. If visiting in summer, plan outdoor activities for early morning or evening hours.
Getting Around Phoenix
Phoenix is a sprawling city best explored by car. Rental cars are readily available at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport. The Valley Metro light rail connects downtown Phoenix to Tempe and Mesa, offering a convenient option for certain attractions. Ride-sharing services are widely available throughout the metro area.
Start Your Phoenix Adventure
Phoenix offers an unbeatable combination of outdoor adventure, cultural attractions, and Southwestern hospitality. From challenging mountain hikes to world-class museums and desert gardens, there's something for every traveler. Whether you're seeking adrenaline-pumping activities or peaceful desert contemplation, Phoenix delivers an unforgettable experience.
Ready to explore the Valley of the Sun? Book your Boulevard Stays stay and discover why Phoenix is one of America's fastest-growing travel destinations.