phoenix arizona tourist attractions

Phoenix   Travel Guide

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20 Best Things to Do in Phoenix, Arizona

Begin your introduction to the Valley of the Sun with a visit to downtown Phoenix, home to some of the city's top attractions, including the Phoenix Art Museum , Heritage Square and the Heard Museum . Travelers on the hunt for a more laid-back

• All Things To Do

Desert Botanical Garden Desert Botanical Garden

U.S. News Insider Tip:  Springtime is a particularly colorful season to visit the Desert Botanical Garden. Visitors who arrive mid-February through mid-June will see an abundance of blooming cactus just begging for attention. – Jill Schildhouse

The desert may seem like the last place you'd expect to find flora. Yet the Desert Botanical Garden is home to thousands of species of cacti, trees and flowers from all around the world. The garden's brightly colored plants sharply contrast the Sonoran Desert's cinnamon-red buttes, and numerous hiking trails – like the Plants and People of the Sonoran Desert and the Harriet K. Maxwell Desert Wildflower Loop trails – allow you to experience the region's natural wonders the way early settlers once did. The Desert Botanical Garden also hosts numerous events, including culinary demonstrations and outdoor concert series.

Camelback Mountain Camelback Mountain free

As one of the highest peaks in Phoenix, Camelback Mountain is among the most scenic hiking spots in the city. Soaring more 2,700 feet in elevation, Camelback's summit offers spectacular views of Phoenix and Scottsdale and can be reached from the 2.5-mile (incredibly steep) out-and-back Echo Canyon Trail. If you're looking for a slightly easier trek, the 2.6-mile out-and-back Cholla Trail on the east side of the mountain offers a more gradual incline, at least until you near the summit. You can also try one of the several beginner-friendly trails that circle Camelback's base, such as the Bobby's Rock Trail. Hiking Camelback Mountain is best attempted earlier in the morning or later in the afternoon when the desert heat is bearable (in fact, it's closed from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on days with excessive heat warnings). But no matter when you decide to climb, make sure you have plenty of water and sunscreen. For a unique perspective of the mountain, consider a sunrise hot air balloon ride (one of the best Arizona tours ).

Recent travelers who scaled the mountain said the arduous journey is well worth the incredible views, though they do warn this experience is not for the faint of heart. Reviewers also suggested bringing your camera, as the views at the summit and along the way are photo-worthy. Visitors also warn that you should be prepared to share the trails with lots of other hikers.

Musical Instrument Museum Musical Instrument Museum

U.S. News Insider Tip: When hunger strikes, visit the on-site Café Allegro, which tantalizes customers' taste buds with a seasonal menu showcasing local produce, regional dishes and cuisines from around the world. There are plenty of vegan, vegetarian and kid-friendly options, too. – Jill Schildhouse

The Musical Instrument Museum, located about 20 miles north of downtown Phoenix, invites visitors to check out its collection of more than 8,000 instruments from around the world. Travelers will find instruments, concert footage, clothing of renowned musicians and more. Visitors can even see how instruments are preserved and restored in the Conservation Lab before actually playing instruments in the Experience Gallery. Many parents said their children especially enjoyed experimenting with the instruments in the Experience and Encore galleries (the latter of which is geared toward kids who are prekindergarten to second grade), advising future visitors to make it the last stop in the museum because the kids will not want to leave.

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Heard Museum Heard Museum

If you're a history buff or an art aficionado (or both), take advantage of the spectacular exhibits – and air conditioning – housed in the Heard Museum. According to many, the Heard Museum is one of the country's finest Native American museums and offers a comprehensible introduction to Arizona's original residents. With the help of pre-Colombian to contemporary art and a variety of traditional artifacts, the Heard Museum conveys the life and culture of Native Americans in the Southwest. 

Recent visitors recommend setting aside at least half a day to see the exhibits housed here. Many also praised the docents and suggested joining a free tour to get the most out of your time here. You'll also want to take a spin through the gift shop, according to reviewers.

Phoenix Art Museum Phoenix Art Museum

Housed within a notable example of Modernist architecture (it was partially designed by Frank Lloyd Wright) is the largest art museum in the Southwest United States (with more than 20,000 works of art, some of them dating as far back as the Renaissance). From Diego Rivera to Frederic Remington, Georgia O'Keeffe to Frida Kahlo, the Phoenix Art Museum's permanent collection caters to a wide variety of tastes, and often welcomes top-notch traveling exhibits. Be sure to check out the popular Thorne Miniature Rooms, and if you're traveling with kids, take advantage of the museum's youth-oriented activities; you can pick up a guide for navigating the museum with kids (which includes a scavenger hunt) at the front desk.

Recent visitors praised the museum's size and layout, and its ability to appeal to a variety of age groups. Reviewers also offered kudos for the on-site restaurant and gift shop, and say this is a great place to beat the heat on hot summer days. Those without a taste for modern art may not enjoy their visit as much; despite its diverse collections, expect to see a lot of more recent artworks. If you'd like a little guidance navigating the museum's collection, consider signing up for one of its docent-led public tours, which are offered every day that the museum is open.

South Mountain Park South Mountain Park free

Arizona offers a seemingly endless array of outdoor experiences. And Phoenix's South Mountain Park is no exception. The park, which spans more than 16,000 acres and is one of the country’s largest municipally managed parks, boasts three mountain ranges and more than 50 miles of trails. Hikers should consider the Dobbins Lookout summit, which is accessible by major hiking trails and Summit Road. Standing at 2,330 feet, the lookout provides panoramic valley views. If your feet need a break, the park's trails are also open to horseback riding and mountain biking. Along with its hiking trails, the park is also home to an education center that interpretive exhibits. From the center, you can embark on the Judith Tunnell Accessible Trail, which comprises two barrier-free, half-mile loops. Mystery Castle is another must-see. This 18-room home was built in 1945 by Boyce Gulley for his daughter Mary Lou. It's open for tours between October and May.

Recent visitors loved the scenic trails at South Mountain Park. The views and plant life were popular. Some travelers also praised the beautiful drives. Note that the roads are very popular with cyclists – drivers should prepare to share the road and keep an eye out for two-wheeled transport.

Papago Park Papago Park free

Home to the Desert Botanical Garden and the Phoenix Zoo , Papago Park is popular with locals and visitors alike thanks to its proximity to downtown Phoenix (less than 10 miles east) and its massive red butte formations. There are options for all activity levels, from the west side trails to the east side trails to the popular Hole-in-the-Rock trail . Dogs are welcome, too.

Before it was a park, this land served many purposes. It was a reservation for Indigenous tribes, a fish hatchery during the Great Depression, a prisoner-of-war camp during World War II and a veterans affairs hospital.

Hole in the Rock Hole in the Rock free

Papago Park features several hikes – perhaps the most distinctive is Hole in the Rock. Nestled in and among the red butte formations of the park, this short but spectacular hike (it is only 0.3 miles out and back) features a dramatic endpoint. After hiking up 200 feet of steps, visitors arrive at a lookout onto nearby lagoons and the more distant city. Historians believe the Hohokam civilization, which was present in this area, may have used the rock formation to track the position of the sun through a hole in the top of the rock.

Recent visitors raved about the views from the hike’s summit. Many recommended timing your visit to appreciate a beautiful Arizona sunset. Several noted that the hike is busy with visitors, but well-appointed. There are public restrooms, picnic areas and a nearby parking lot. What's more, the trail is just a half-mile from the Phoenix Zoo .

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Phoenix Zoo Phoenix Zoo

The Phoenix Zoo is a great place to enjoy nature without your little ones dying of boredom. There are four trails that wind through the numerous habitats populated by more than 3,000 animals living east of downtown Phoenix. The zoo houses a variety of animals, including cheetahs, monkeys, Asian elephants, three-toed box turtles and Mexican gray wolves. Take younger tots to the Red Barn petting zoo or to the giraffe encounter where they can get some face time with the animals. When their little legs start to tire, consider the 25-minute narrated safari cruiser tour, which only costs a few extra dollars and provides a good orientation of the zoo.

Recent visitors (especially those with kids in tow) had fun at the zoo, and praised the clean grounds and abundant activities. However, some travelers were disappointed with the added costs for activities, as well as the high admission price overall. Those who visited in the hot summer months warned that some of the animals may not be as active/visible due to the heat. However, if you visit in the summer you'll be able to take advantage of the zoo's water features (it's home to multiple splash pads).

Taliesin West Taliesin West

U.S. News Insider Tip:  While the audio tour is nice, taking a guided tour with a passionate docent reveals more intimate stories about Frank Lloyd Wright and provides exclusive access to his private living spaces. These tickets often sell out in advance, so plan ahead. – Jill Schildhouse

Renowned American architect Frank Lloyd Wright loved the Sonoran Desert, and he used these nearly 500 acres at the base of the McDowell Mountains as his winter home and school. With the help of his art and architecture students, Wright constructed apartments, studios and theaters using local materials to help the camp blend with its natural surroundings. This National Historic Landmark and UNESCO World Heritage Site is still used as an educational space for budding artists and architects. What's more, it's considered one of the top things to do in Arizona .

Tee off at one of Phoenix's golf courses Tee off at one of Phoenix's golf courses

Despite its desert surroundings, Phoenix is emerging as a premier golf destination. In fact, the Valley of the Sun is home to nearly 200 courses with difficulty levels ranging from beginner to expert.

Finding the right course may be a feat in itself, thanks to all of the options. For an authentic Phoenician golf experience, follow in the footsteps of movie stars and politicians and head to the Arizona Biltmore Golf Club. Constructed in 1928 and known as "the granddaddy" of Phoenix country clubs, the Arizona Biltmore is home to two 18-hole PGA Championship courses, as well as a driving range, a putting green, a pro shop and a full-service restaurant. Because of its reputation, you'll want to reserve tee times well in advance, plus, you should plan your tee time for early morning or later in the evening to avoid the Arizona heat. The club is part of the Arizona Biltmore Resort in downtown Phoenix. Reserve your tee times online at the course's website . Prices and availability may vary.

Indulge in a spa treatment Indulge in a spa treatment

U.S. News Insider Tip: The world-renowned Sisley-Paris Spa resides within Well & Being Spa at the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess — there are only three U.S. locations and this is the largest. These ultra-luxe European-style facial treatments and body rituals are a highly sensorial experience. – Jill Schildhouse

If hiking or golf isn't really your cup of tea, consider a day spent wrapped in seaweed or soaking in mud. Alongside its luscious green golf courses, Phoenix is also known for its outstanding day and resort spas , which are often set among jaw-dropping desert scenes. When winter strikes or everyday life becomes too overwhelming, many weary travelers head to the Valley of the Sun for hot rock massages and salt scrubs. And since many spas incorporate botanicals sourced from the Sonoran Desert (like prickly pear and cactus flower) into their treatments, a visit to the spa can be as educational as it is restorative. 

Arizona Science Center Arizona Science Center

Seek refuge from the broiling Phoenix weather in the Arizona Science Center, one of the top things to do in Arizona . Here, interactive displays teach kids about everything from electricity to weather patterns to outer space. Other topics covered across the center's four levels of exhibits include sound, gravity and psychology, among others. An Imax theater also offers family-friendly, educational entertainment.

Recent visitors were pleased with the activities offered here, especially the temporary exhibits. However, some felt the tickets were pricey, especially for families. Reviewers also suggested purchasing your tickets online in advance to avoid having to wait in long admission lines. 

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Pueblo Grande Museum Pueblo Grande Museum

History and archaeology buffs should put a trip to Pueblo Grande, a National Historic Landmark and the largest preserved archaeological site within Phoenix, at the top of their list of things to do. This site features the ruins of an ancient Hohokam village, which was occupied for more than 1,000 years until around A.D. 1450. Walk among what's left of houses, storage facilities, play areas and cemeteries on a short, accessible trail. You can also view artifacts found during the site's excavation at the small on-site museum.

Recent visitors called this site a "hidden gem" and praised the well-maintained grounds, as well as the small museum. Reviewers recommend setting aside at least an hour to enjoy the attraction, though some reported spending more than two hours here. Though there are a few interactive exhibits in the museum for children, most said this attraction is best enjoyed by adults.

Children's Museum of Phoenix Children's Museum of Phoenix

Boasting more than 300 play experiences across three floors, the Children's Museum of Phoenix is a hit with kids. Spanning more than 48,000 square feet, the museum offers a range of exhibits suitable for infants and kids up to age 10. Exhibits include a miniature grocery store, a noodle "forest" made from suspended pool noodles, a climbing structure and a fort-building area, among other activities.

Recent visitors loved the museum, saying it was a great place for kids to burn off energy. Many families said they spent several hours here thanks to the variety of exhibits. Others appreciated the museum's efforts to cater to infants and toddlers with designated spaces. Some reviewers said it was the best children's museum they'd ever been to.

Heritage Square Heritage Square free

Visitors to Arizona may not associate the southwest with Victorian-era history and architecture. Heritage Square will change that. Located downtown, this walkable area dates back to the 1800s. Fans of delicate Queen Anne architecture will enjoy the restored Rosson House Museum, which features period decor, while others will delight in the tasty restaurants and attractive views in the area. Note that the 1895 Rosson House Museum is accessible exclusively by guided tour. Tours visit all areas of the home, including several bedrooms, a nursery, a bathroom and a doctor's office (the home's original owner was a doctor who occasionally saw patients at the house).

Recent visitors enjoyed this trip back in time, praising the historic preservation of Heritage Square and the many eateries. Many were intrigued by the history of the square, but some noted that it could be easily seen in a short period of time. Consider adding a stop at the Arizona Science Center as the two attractions sit within walking distance of each other.

Butterfly Wonderland Butterfly Wonderland

U.S. News Insider Tip:  Want to increase the chances of having butterflies land on you? Wear brightly colored clothing – reds, yellows and oranges are more likely to attract them. Just don't reach out for them or handle them in any way, as they are fragile. – Jill Schildhouse

Unbeknownst to most visitors and even some locals, there's a rainforest in the Scottsdale desert – and it's home to the largest butterfly conservatory in the United States. Here, visitors will find some of the only humid terrain in the state (around 80% humidity and 80 degrees year-round), making this enclosure the perfect habitat for thousands of butterflies across up to 70 different species. Before entering the conservatory, visitors begin with a viewing of "Flight of the Butterflies" in the 3D theater to gain a better appreciation for a monarch butterfly's intense annual migration. Next, stop by the Butterfly Emergence Gallery, where live chrysalis morph into beautiful butterflies right before your eyes. Once inside the conservatory, be sure to look at all the foliage high and low, because the magical butterflies flit about everywhere.

Wrigley Mansion Wrigley Mansion

Back in 1932, chewing gum magnate William Wrigley Jr. designed the Wrigley Mansion as a winter getaway home and a 50th anniversary gift to his wife. Set atop a hill overlooking 360-degree views of the entire Phoenix Valley, this property is a stunning mixture of Spanish, California Monterey and Mediterranean architectural styles. Today, it's been lovingly restored into a premier fine dining and special event venue. Docent-led tours of the mansion, which take about 45 minutes to an hour, cost $20 per person; advance reservations are recommended. Between the grand staircase, the Switchboard Room and the hand-painted ceiling, you'll definitely feel as though you've stepped back in time.

In 2021, the property became the much-anticipated site of James Beard Award-winning chef Christopher Gross' latest concept, Christopher's at Wrigley Mansion. The all-glass space features an eight-course tasting menu (think: wagyu carpaccio, foie gras soup and scallops with caviar) with optional wine pairings. For a less grand, but equally delicious experience, enjoy small plates (such as escargot, smoked salmon BLT and Moroccan lamb sausage with couscous) and cocktails on the patio, overlooking the city (especially impressive near sunset). Another on-site restaurant, Geordie's by Chef David Brito, is the ideal spot to enjoy a special Sunday brunch or live jazz with dinner. Wine enthusiasts will be impressed by the Wrigley Mansion's wine program, which has earned the "Best of Award of Excellence" from Wine Spectator magazine for multiple consecutive years.

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McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park free

In the heart of Scottsdale lies the 30-acre McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park. Part municipal park, part railway museum and part kid-friendly fun zone, this unique site brings together a functional railroad, carousel, shops and even quintessential park space. There are a variety of activities offered here, from traditional playgrounds to an enormous model railroad building – not to mention frequent special events like a holiday lights display and summer concert series.

Recent visitors enjoyed their time at the park. Many noted it was a family-friendly destination, and budget-friendly to boot. Often some attraction or area is closed on a given day, but most travelers found that there were still enough activities available to happily pass a few hours. This attraction appealed to everyone from solo adult travelers to families visiting town.

Chase Field Chase Field

Watching the Arizona Diamondbacks play at Chase Field is a worthwhile experience, even if you aren't a die-hard baseball fan, according to recent visitors. Reviewers appreciated the kid-friendly atmosphere, air conditioning and retractable roof, and the park's unique amenities, including the lifeguard-staffed pool and hot tub that sits 415 feet from home plate. Even if you aren't in town for a game, you can still see the ballpark on a tour, which are available three times a day Monday through Saturday throughout the year. Tours, which last 75 minutes, visit the press interview room, the 20th Anniversary Experience (which features artifacts and memorabilia), the dugout and more. Note: The tour does not go on to the field. After, grab a bite to eat or a cold one at the Four Peaks Draft Room.

Chase Field is located one block south of the Arizona Science Center in the downtown area. Tours cost approximately $14 for adults, $12 for seniors and $10 for children 12 and younger. Tours are offered at 9:30 a.m., 11 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. Monday through Saturday. For more information, check out Chase Field's official website .

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60 Best & Fun Things To Do In Phoenix (Arizona)

By: Author Jerric Chong

Posted on Published: July 3, 2020  - Last updated: October 16, 2023

Being one of the most beautiful places in America , Phoenix is a charming capital city of Arizona.

Throughout the year, it boasts beaming sun and delightfully warm temperatures, and its expanses of dry desert are among the reasons it is so well-loved.

If you’re traveling to this city, you’d be hard-pressed to narrow down all the points of interest into a concise list.

There are so many places to see, so how are you meant to pick where to go?

To help you out, here is our travel guide for the 60 best and fun things to do in Phoenix, Arizona!

Table of Contents

1. Phoenix Zoo

Gregory E. Clifford / Shutterstock

The Phoenix Zoo in Arizona’s Papago Park is a fantastic place to head to if you’re an animal lover, or if you’re coming with kids.

The well-maintained grounds are home to many different animals, located across four trails on 125 acres.

With all there is to do, it’s no wonder it’s among the city’s top 10 tourist locations!

Animals such as Asian elephants, Komodo dragons, baboons, giraffes, Galápagos tortoises, and Sumatran tigers all prowl enclosures and exhibits.

Visitors have the chance to engage in more up-close fun with animals through the Red Barn petting zoo, and they can enjoy a narrated safari tour if they like!

Other spots of note in the zoo are the 4D theater, the carousel ride, eateries, picnic spots, and a gift shop.

Expect to spend $24.95 for adult admission and $14.95 for child admission (with free entrance for kids aged two and below).

Some attractions will require additional prices.

Buy tickets in advance for a discount!

Address:  455 N Galvin Pkwy, Phoenix, AZ 85008, United States

2. Arizona Science Center

Robert Byrd / Shutterstock

The Arizona Science Center is a public science museum and is widely considered the greatest in the state, so the fact that it’s in Phoenix – and right close to Heritage Park – makes it a great source of excitement for tourists!

It is a very hands-on science center that spans four floors.

Exhibits are often provided in interactive manners, demonstrating friction, gravity, the solar system, biology, weather, magnetism, electricity, aviation IT, and much more!

Children will love the learning hub, designed to be kid-friendly, and there’s a lot they can pick up and discover in the center.

Not coming with kids? Don’t fret!

Check out the special Science With a Twist program hosted by the center that provides science programming, drinks, dancing, and a great time for those over 21 only!

And, of course, many exhibits have no age limit – the planetarium is up to world-class standards, and you’re never too old to learn about any aspect of science, either.

Regardless, there’s no doubt that a trip to the science center is among the things to do in downtown Phoenix that isn’t to be missed.

Address:  600 E Washington St, Phoenix, AZ 85004, United States

3. Castles N’ Coasters

Castles N’ Coasters

Phoenix may not be necessarily known for having the top theme parks in the country, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t some fun points of interest that match that description!

In the northwestern part of the city lies Castles N’ Coasters , packed with enough exciting rides and spots to fill a whole day of time!

A number of great rides are available.

Water rides, like the log flume Splashdown, add a rush with a blast.

Roller coasters, like the Desert Storm packed with loop-de-loops, will send your heart racing.

The XD Dark Ride gets adrenaline rushing with fearful zombies in a horror-themed fiesta.

The Patriot offers a less extreme ride that still gets you going.

And of course, there’s much more than just that to do – a swinging Viking ship, bumper boats and cars, go-karts, a giant arcade, a drop tower, and even miniature golf!

Address:  9445 N Metro Pkwy E, Phoenix, AZ 85051, United States

4. Desert Botanical Garden

Chris Curtis / Shutterstock

Few people take a trip to the desert with the goal of finding flowers, plants, and other flora.

With just how hot Arizona and its deserts get, you might think the very idea is quite strange!

But the Desert Botanical Garden offers all of that and more in a little oasis in the middle of the harsh Sonoran Desert.

The Desert Botanical Garden is packed with a shocking 50,000 species of flora, ranging from flowers to trees to cacti, and they come from all around the world to brighten a visitor’s day with vibrant colors.

A garden shop, eatery, and many tours add to the appeal.

Apart from just being one of the best and prettiest tourist attractions in Phoenix, the Desert Botanical Garden also occasionally hosts events, including outdoor concerts and even demonstrations of a culinary variety.

The gardens are open from 8 in the morning to 8 at night from October to April, and from 7 in the morning to 8 at night from May to September.

Expect to pay $24.95 per adult to enter, and $12.95 per child (while children aged 2 and younger enter for free).

Address:  1201 N Galvin Pkwy, Phoenix, AZ 85008, United States

5. Hall of Flame Fire Museum

Jack / flickr

The Hall of Flame Fire Museum has a pretty fun name, so it’s no wonder that it’s among the cool places to check out in Phoenix, Arizona.

The fascinating museum is dedicated to showing firefighters in all their glory, ranging from notable advancements in modern firefighting, the history of technology in the field, and all sorts of information dating back centuries to 1725.

Most visitors to this museum find that the restored fire trucks are the Hall of Flame Fire Museum’s best offerings.

These fire trucks are rich in history, with some fire carriages from 1865 that were horse-drawn all the way up to 2950s Type 700 firetrucks with rigid frames.

These vehicles aren’t all American, either, as the museum showcases some from across the globe!

Another much-loved section is the antique fire helmet collection, salvaged from a wide range of eras in history and many nations.

There is also the National Firefighting Hall of Heroes that celebrates and lists all the firefighters who bravely passed away while working in service since the year 1800.

They’re available to view through a computer database, but they’re also listed beautifully on the wall.

A special section is dedicated to firefighters who passed away on 9/11.

Address:  6101 E Van Buren St, Phoenix, AZ 85008, United States

6. The Musical Instrument Museum

Paul R. Jones / Shutterstock

One of the most fun things to do in Phoenix is to visit the MIM, known also as the Musical Instrument Museum .

It’s not just a spot individual to Phoenix, Arizona – it’s a one-and-only attraction!

This is the only musical instrument museum on the planet, and it displayed over 15,000 instruments, exhibits, and artifacts.

Visitors to this special museum in Phoenix will get to enjoy lots of activities.

They can observe each instrument, which is showcased in modern, high-tech display cases complete with video and audio features.

This means you can genuinely hear how the instruments originally sounded!

Some of the collected instruments include great famous ones, such as instruments of John Lennon, Elvis Presley, Taylor Swift, Carlos Santana, Johnny Cash, and more.

For a more historical twist, you can also view music instruments of folk, ethnic, or tribal variety and listen to their music in their original, authentic contexts!

The most notable instruments to remember to check out are the Steinwig piano, which is the first Steinway instrument ever assembled, the incredible 11-foot octobass that plays tones so low humans can’t detect it, and virtually everything in the Experience Gallery, where you get to play instruments yourself!

Address:  4725 E Mayo Blvd, Phoenix, AZ 85050, United States

7. Taliesin West

EQRoy / Shutterstock

Taliesin West was once the school and winter home of Frank Lloyd Wright.

Built at the bottom of the majestic McDowell Mountains, these 600 acres of land were chosen purely due to Wright’s love of the Sonoran Desert.

The camp’s natural appearance, from its studios to its apartments and from its theaters to its amenities, used local materials and the aid of art and architecture students to blend in with the environment around and near it.

Taliesin West’s status as a National Historic Landmark is part of what makes it such a great visit for guests to Phoenix.

Its architectural aesthetic makes it a fun gem to explore in the middle of what, at first, appears to be stretches of monotonous Phoenix dessert.

Special events are often held, including concerts and art shows, to further brighten up the site.

Tours and guides are available to further explain the location’s intricacies and Wright’s life.

Tours range from one to three hours and focus on different aspects of Taliesin West.

There is also, of course, a gift shop to explore.

Do note that visitors can’t enter the property without booking a tour, and some tours need a prior reservation!

Address:  12621 N Frank Lloyd Wright Blvd, Scottsdale, AZ 85259, United States

8. Old Town Scottsdale

CrackerClips Stock Media / Shutterstock

The town of Scottsdale was once a real town in the 1920s, but just because it no longer exists as it once did doesn’t mean you can’t experience it in a way while you’re in Phoenix, Arizona today!

Old Town Scottsdale is the oldest part of the suburb and still lives on within the original site of the town, but is currently a bustling neighborhood full of activities.

There’s no end to options for guests in Old Town Scottsdale.

There are art galleries, design stores, boutiques, restaurants, bars, and nightclubs to peruse and enjoy.

In the summer, a farmers’ market is set up on Saturdays.

For history and culture enthusiasts, Western Spirit: Scottsdale’s Museum of the West is a great place to visit, showcasing historical facts and art from the 19 Western American states.

There are also plenty of events showcasing the Native American heritage of Scottsdale, traditions of the West, and contemporary local art.

Not sure where to begin in one of the best of the Phoenix attractions you can enjoy?

Start on Main Street to check out the indie shops and work your way from there!

Address: Main Street, Scottsdale, AZ 85251, United States

9. Camelback Mountain

Tim Roberts Photography / Shutterstock

Camelback Mountain , rising 2,700 feet above the ground, is among the most beautiful and most scenic site seeing and hiking spots in Phoenix.

Located in Echo Canyon Park, it offers free entry to all.

The mountain is a mystery to many geologists, as granite is set on the mountain head that dates back 1.5 billion years while the rest of the mountain is made from 30-million-year-old sandstone.

How that is possible, no experts know yet, but it makes this location all the more enticing.

There are a number of different trails to try.

The most popular is likely the Echo Canyon Trail, which spans 1.2 very steep miles up to the summit of Camelback Mountain.

While the view is breathtaking, the trek is notably difficult.

An easier climb is the Cholla Trail, which has an easier 1.5-mile climb that only gets steep as you approach the summit, but unlike the Echo Canyon Trail, the Cholla Trail has no facilities or amenities.

Neither of these climbs is for the faint of heart, though!

Need something less arduous?

There is also Bobby’s Rock Trail, which is great for beginners and essentially simply circles the mountain’s base.

There are also some other beginner-friendly trails to consider and inquire about!

The most opportune time to hike the mountain is in the early morning or late afternoon, as this is when the heat is less scorchingly difficult to manage in this Phoenix desert.

Address: Phoenix, AZ 85018, United States

10. Mesa Arts Center

Mesa Arts Center

The Mesa Arts Center first opened its doors in 2005.

It spans 212,755 square feet and boasts an impressive four different theaters, as well as fun spots like studios, galleries, and workshops, and even classrooms and offices.

You can expect many of the most loved performances to be held here.

The Sonoran Desert Chorale, the Metropolitan Youth Symphony, and other traveling performing arts groups put on performances regularly.

A number of scheduled performances involving orchestras, dramas, and more, in many different price ranges, so there’s something for everyone.

The Mesa Arts Center Store offers many special and rare items that make fantastic collectibles and gifts.

Address:  1 E Main St, Mesa, AZ 85201, United State

11. Goldfield Ghost Town

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Near the city of Phoenix is a fun little tourist destination you might be interested in adding to your list of attractions to visit.

Established in 1893, the town of Goldfield was founded on the eastern flank of the Valley of the Sun when prospectors found gold in the Superstition Mountains.

It was later abandoned when the gold vein ran dry.

These days, Goldfield Ghost Town is a reconstructed tourist town located in Phoenix, Arizona.

Crammed full of western buildings and talented re-enactors, the town gives visitors a chance to enjoy a taste of the Old West in its heyday via the various activities it offers.

If you’re not interested in checking out the tours the town offers, consider checking out the museum sticking around for a free gunfight show.

Or try saddling up and go horse riding for the complete cowboy experience!

Either way, the town promises itself to be a fun trip for the whole family.

Address:  4650 N Mammoth Mine Rd, Apache Junction, AZ 85119, United States

12. Arizona Museum of Natural History

Arizona Museum of Natural History

There’s no denying the amount of archeological history Phoenix is packing, so it only makes sense that one of the best Phoenix attractions in the location is the Arizona Museum of Natural History .

Located in the Phoenix Metropolitan Area, the museum was founded in 1977 in what was previously Mesa City Hall.

The Arizona Museum of Natural History is famous for its dinosaur exhibits – which shouldn’t come as a surprise, considering how Phoenix and its surrounding lands are a prime source of archeological discoveries.

Visitors can check out the museum’s multilevel Dinosaur Mountain, a Mesozoic Era exhibit that features a three-story waterfall!

Children will definitely appreciate being able to see and touch life-sized casts of the dinosaur skeletons, and budding archeologists have a chance to even try their hand at unearthing their own fossils and bones in the museum’s Paleo Dig Pit!

Also worth checking out are the various exhibits and galleries dedicated to ancient Mesoamerican cultures and history as well.

Address:  53 N Macdonald, Mesa, AZ 85201, United States

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13. Heard Museum

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With just how many amazing things you must see in Phoenix, it makes no sense for you to skip this incredible museum.

When it comes to Native American history and artifacts, the Heard Museum is one of the country’s top museums on the subject – and for a very good reason.

Located north of the city of Phoenix, the Heard Museum was founded in 1929 by Maie Bartlett Heard and her husband a few years after they had both acquired the La Ciudad Indian Ruin.

These days, visitors will find that it is full of award-winning exhibits featuring both pre-Colombian and modern Native American art and artifacts.

Visitors should put aside at least half a day to fully appreciate and explore the museum’s exhibits and galleries, before checking out the gift shop.

It’s best to join one of the free tours if you want to maximize your trip as well.

Address:  2301 N Central Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85004, United States

14. Pueblo Grande Museum and Cultural Park

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Don’t let the desert fool you – one of the best things Arizona has to offer is its view.

The state is packed full of amazing sights that will blow the mind, and you can see some of them in the Pueblo Grande Museum and Cultural Park .

This National Historic Landmark is home to the largest archaeological site in Phoenix – the preserved ruins of an ancient abandoned Hohokam village.

These days, visitors driving in from Phoenix will find the grounds of this small museum to be a well-maintained spot that is chock full of historical sites.

Visitors can wander down an interpretive trail that leads you through reconstructed and furnished buildings, giving modern tourists a chance to step back into the past.

Once it gets too hot, visitors can also duck into the museum to check out the recovered artifacts.

The museum is also home to many other activities, such as workshops, demonstrations, talks, markets, and even auctions!

Address:  4619 E Washington St, Phoenix, AZ 85034, United States

15. Roosevelt Row

Nagel Photography / Shutterstock

If you’re wandering through Arizona and looking for some fun to be had in downtown Phoenix, give Roosevelt Row a try.

This walkable arts district stretches from 7th Avenue to 16th Street and is famously known to be the home of the arts community in Phoenix.

Drop by to check out all the murals that adorn the buildings, or the various sculptures that decorate the pavements.

You can even enjoy the art in the form of geometric benches you can sit on!

This isn’t the only thing that’s available here, either – visitors can check out local artisanal wares at the open-air market, or enjoy the various performances that align the streets.

Either way, this part of Phoenix is just perfect for those looking to enjoy a fundamentally Bohemian vibe.

Address:  918 N 2nd St, Phoenix, AZ 85004, United States

16. Japanese Friendship Garden of Phoenix

Japanese Friendship Garden of Phoenix

For those asking what to see while visiting Arizona, you might want to consider this tea garden.

This 3.5-acre large tea garden is a Japanese-themed sea of tranquility in the otherwise busy city of Phoenix.

As the namesake implies, the Japanese Friendship Garden was established in 1987 to connect Phoenix with Himeji, its sister city.

Visitors to this calm oasis will find it filled with lush plants and koi fish decorating its handcrafted landscape – all designed by the Himeji architects.

If you’re looking for a genuine Japanese tea ceremony, this is also the place to go!

In addition to tea ceremonies, you can also check out the various tai chi and flower arrangement classes arranged by the garden, alongside craft workshops and summer jazz nights.

There are also plenty of other events that feature various Japanese dancers, artists, and food, giving visitors a chance to experience Japanese culture!

Address:  1125 N 3rd Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85003, United States

17. Tovrea Castle

A castle is the last thing you’d expect to find in a desert, but Arizona aims to surprise its visitors every time.

Located within easy reach of the Airport Gateway District of Phoenix, the Tovrea Castle was originally a high-end hotel built by Alessio Carraro and his son.

The hotel, unfortunately, never opened to the public.

It was sold to Ambrose Tovrea, who turned it into a private residence until the death of his widow in 1969, where it fell into ruin.

It has since been restored and is rarely opened to the public for the occasional tour.

As you can imagine, this makes it perfect if you’re looking for unique things to do in Phoenix!

This two-hour tour gives you access to the cactus garden, with its 5,000 plants, and a look into the 1930s palace.

It’s best to reserve a ticket in advance in advance since tours are only occasionally available every couple of months.

Address:  5025 E Van Buren St, Phoenix, AZ 85008, United States

18. Phoenix Mountains Preserve

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No travel guide to Arizona is complete without showing you one of the best places to visit – the Phoenix Mountains Preserve .

The preserve covers several locations including some of the most beautiful views you’ll find in the location and contains a plethora of things that are sure to attract any hiking buff.

Mountains like the Piestewa Peak and Lookout Mountain are both incredibly accessible locations that offer some of the best views you can find.

If you’re not interested in taking photos, then you might prefer trying out the Summit Trail.

It’s 1.2 miles long for a round trip and is the only way for visitors to make their way all the way to the top.

It’s not a trip to be taken lightly, however – the trail is a difficult climb.

Making your way to the summit tip is worthwhile, though, since it gives you a complete panorama view of Phoenix!

Address: 1431 E Dunlap Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85020, United States

19. Mystery Castle

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For those who are looking for something fun to do this weekend, try checking out the Mystery Castle .

It was built over the course of 15 years by Boyce Luther Gulley, who had first abandoned both his family and his job, before vanishing for three years.

After three years, he returned to Phoenix to build his castle.

When Gulley’s wife and daughter inherited the castle in 1945, they discovered it to be a strange building made out of both conventional materials like adobe and stone, and weirder materials like telephone poles, rail tracks, and automobile parts.

The whole thing is held together by a combination of cement, mortar, and goat’s milk.

These days, Mystery Castle and its various rooms and parapets are open to the public for tours that are led by Gully’s great-granddaughter.

Make sure to bring some cash, since the tickets can only be paid for in cash.

Address:  800 E Mineral Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85042, United States

20. Hole in the Rock

Considering Arizona’s beautiful and fascinating landscape, it should come as no surprise that one of the best things to do in Phoenix is to go checking out some of the geological wonders the desert has to offer.

Among those top attractions in Phoenix is the Hole in the Rock .

Located south of the Desert Botanical Garden in Papago Park, Hole in the Rock is a small sandstone hill that is covered in all sorts of openings.

The open ceiling and the space inside this strange hill were likely used by the ancient Hohokam culture as a calendar to mark the season – something you can walk into to explore yourself!

If that’s somehow not enough to convince you, then perhaps the beautiful view Phoenix itself during sunset may be something you would prefer!

The Desert Botanical Garden itself is also worth checking out as well!

Address:  625 N Galvin Pkwy, Phoenix, AZ 85008, United States

21. Orpheum Theater

Thomas Trompeter / Shutterstock

Built in 1929 in Phoenix, Arizona is the Spanish Baroque-style Orpheum Theatre .

It was originally a venue for silent cinema and still carries that history with it in the form of a playable Wurlitzer organ.

Visitors dropping by the building may even get to hear it in action every now and then!

These days, the Orpheum Theatre is the place to be in Phoenix for ballet, family shows, live music shows, podcast recordings, and Broadway musicals.

This makes the theatre perfect for those who need a fun night out – though you might find yourself wanting to visit the building itself just to admire its unusual appearance and history.

And it certainly has the former in spades.

The building itself is an opulent masterpiece featuring intricate moldings, Solomonic columns, and beautiful murals meant to evoke the view of the sky from a Spanish villa.

So if you would rather just explore the building, consider joining one of the tours available every other Tuesday!

Address:  203 W Adams St, Phoenix, AZ 85003, United States

22. Paolo Soleri’s Cosanti

Norman Walsh / flickr

Built in 1955 in Phoenix, Arizona, Cosanti was the studio and home of the architect Paolo Soleri – a student of Frank Llyod Wright up till his death in 2013.

These days, it is an unexpected entry into the list of Phoenix attractions available close to the city – and it’s easy to see why.

The design of these buildings was ahead of its time, combining both experimental earth-casting techniques with the architect’s own creativity to create unique, semi-buried buildings made of concrete.

Fans of Star Wars will likely be reminded of the houses on Tattooine!

The result is a complex that is full of sustainable elements, such as its south-facing apses.

It’s position halfway in the ground also provides the entire complex a natural form of insulation – impressive, given the time of its constructions.

Visitors can not only enjoy a guided tour of the place but can also buy one of Soleri’s signature ceramic and bronze bells as a souvenir!

Address:  6433 E Doubletree Ranch Rd, Paradise Valley, AZ 85253, United States

23. Rosson House Museum

Originally constructed for surgeon and physician Dr. Roland Rosson in 1895, the Rosson House Museum is a Queen Anne-styled Victorian house that is one of the earliest examples of non-adobe construction in Phoenix, Arizona.

These days, visiting it is a must do while you’re in Heritage Square in Phoenix.

Visitors will find this top destination to be a source of fun for any and all history buffs, thanks to the home being a time capsule preserving 18th-century furniture, wallpaper, woodwork, and even decorative art.

You might think there’s not much to know about this historical home and the time period it was built in, but the 60-minute tour led by knowledgeable guides will convince you otherwise!

And all that for only $9 per adult!

Address:  113 N 6th St, Phoenix, AZ 85004, United States

24. Lake Pleasant Regional Park

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For a fun sightseeing trip in Phoenix, Arizona, consider checking out Lake Pleasant Regional Park .

Originally dammed in 1927, Lake Pleasant is now a 10,000-acre reservoir that takes up about half of the Northwest Valley.

On hot days, you can find both tourists and locals from Phoenix alike cooling off in the waters of the dam.

You can rent out paddleboards and kayaks from a service on the south-east shore of the lake, or just laze about on tubes.

If you rather spend your time exploring, consider swimming in popular spots like Humbug Cove, Fireman’s Cove, and Coles Bay.

Nature lovers also take note – Lake Pleasant is also surrounded by a protected location full of scenic trails and native wildlife, both along its shores and in its water.

You can try hunting them down on hiking trails, or simply learn about them in the dam’s educational Visitor Center!

Address: 41835 N Castle Hot Springs Rd, Morristown, AZ 85342, United States

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25. Eisendrath House

Eisendrath House

You may not have expected this, but one of the best places to visit in Phoenix is a paradise built in response to antisemitism.

After being refused entry into an Arizona resort, wealthy Chicagoan Rose Eisendrath purchased 44 acres and constructed her own private desert oasis in Phoenix.

The home was a beautiful place to visit, featuring a citrus grove, a swimming pool in the desert, and a living space spanning an impressive 5,500 square feet.

After Eisendrath’s passing in 1936, the 1930s winter getaway changed hands several times and eventually fell into disrepair.

It has since been fully restored to its former glory – now as a center for water conservation studies.

Visitors to this beautiful place will find all sorts of conservation classes, exhibits, and galleries – all geared towards educating the public about the water crisis Phoenix is currently dealing with as the desert region’s population keeps growing.

There are also plenty of tours of this historic place as well!

Address:  1400 N College Ave, Tempe, AZ 85281, United States

26. Chase Field

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Looking for stuff to do while exploring Phoenix?

If you’re hoping to squeeze in some sports during your trip, then Chase Field might just be your best bet.

Located just a block away from the Arizona Science Center in Phoenix, the field is familiar to any baseball fan as the home of the Arizona Diamondbacks.

Even if you’re not a baseball fan, there’s still plenty to do here.

The retractable roof ensures that the field itself is safe from the desert sun and summer storms, and you can get some swimming in with the park’s pool and hot tub.

The latter two are just 415 feet away from the home plate!

Address:  401 E Jefferson St, Phoenix, AZ 85004, United States

27. Wrigley Mansion

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Wrigley is a name that most people will be familiar with, seeing that it is the name attached to the world-famous chewing gum brand.

As it turns out, William Wrigley Jr was not only a chewing gum industrialist, he was also the owner of the mansion overlooking the metropolis of Phoenix.

Visitors will find it appearing more Californian than Arizonian – possibly due to its incredible tile-work, featuring tiles that were originally crafted at Wrigley’s tile factory on Catalina Island .

Mules then transported the tiles across the hundred of miles separating the mansion and the Californian factory.

These days, it’s one of the many fun tourist attractions Phoenix has to offer and is one of the top fine dining and event venues in the vicinity.

If you’re not planning to have an upscale brunch or a wedding here, try joining one of the 45-minute tours that take you through the mansion.

Address:  2501 E Telawa Trail, Phoenix, AZ 85016, United States

28. Curious Nature

Curious Nature

As it turns out, the dry, hot deserts of Arizona are home to all sorts of cool things – though depending on your definition of what is cool and fun, you might disagree.

Still, it can’t be denied that this taxidermy and natural history emporium promises a fascinating and informative afternoon!

Located in an art district in Phoenix, Curious Nature is full of all sorts of strange nature-related things, from tanned bison scrotum to taxidermied ducklings and owl pellet dissection kits.

The menagerie of preserved and taxidermied animals aren’t limited to just desert creatures you’ll find in Phoenix either – like octopi in jars!

Aside from its collection of the deceased, you can find all sorts of other unorthodox knick-knacks here, from unusual jewelry and animal skulls to strange books and geodes.

Visitors can also join their classes, and learn about topics like taxidermy and how to preserve wet specimens!

Address:  5032 N Central Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85012, United States

29. Phoenix Symphony

brewbooks / flickr

Looking for some of the best entertainment available in Phoenix tonight?

If you’re the more classy sort, then Phoenix Symphony may just be up your alley.

Originally a part-time orchestra, the Symphony has since grown from its humble roots in 1947 to be a full-time symphony orchestra and the biggest performing arts organization in Arizona.

Armed with the goal of educating and inspiring, the Symphony offers all sorts of performances and shows – from chamber and classical, to family and pop programs.

They also offer a variety of musical events and educational programs, all aimed at encouraging and developing musical skills and participation in school-going children and the community at large.

Interested visitors should first check out their online calendar.

There, you’ll find the list and corresponding dates of all their upcoming performances, so you can be sure to catch their shows in time!

Address: 75 N 2nd St, Phoenix, AZ 85004, United States

30. Biltmore Fashion Park

Biltmore Fashion Park

Biltmore Fashion Park is an unexpected addition to the list of fun things to do in Phoenix, but it is still a good one with a fair bit of history.

During its establishment in 1963, this mall was the best place to spot all sorts of celebrities and A-listers visiting Phoenix, like John Wayne and Princess Grace.

Despite its age, the open-air mall never truly lost its status as an upscale place to visit in Phoenix – although it did become a nicer place to visit after the addition of some trees, lawns, and fountains in the 1990s.

Visitors here will find a shopper’s paradise, with brands like Ralph Lauren, L’Occitane, and Sephora sitting side by side – all within easy reach!

Address:  2502 E Camelback Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85016, United States

31. Arizona State Capitol Museum

The Arizona State Capitol Museum is yet another good place to head to if you’re in Phoenix.

After all, it’s a tourist spot for not just the city, but the whole state.

The State Capitol building here was built back in 1900 and used for its titular governmental purposes until the year 1974.

Now, the State Capitol Museum has been converted into a historical site that is completely free to enter.

It focuses on documenting and showcasing the rich history of the state, with multiple exhibits across an impressive 4 floors.

Some of the most loved exhibits in the museum are the very fun Arizona flag made from a whopping 113,998 pieces of Lego, specifically chosen in that number to represent the number of miles across the state.

There is also the amazing Arizona Takes Shape showcase, which exhibits the development of this state, from its presence as a mere territory to what it is currently.

Other spots to stop by near to these exhibits are the Wesley Bolin Plaza memorial monument as well as the monument for Capitol Mall.

The USS Arizona exhibit provides the history of its life at Pearl Harbor, and the Merci Train shows off all the gifts from France following the assistance granted to them for rebuilding purposes post-World War 2.

Address:  1700 W Washington St, Phoenix, AZ 85007, United States

32. McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park

McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park

Train enthusiasts will love the McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park , but you don’t have to be an aficionado for the rails to have fun at this interesting tourist spot.

The railroad park was built on a piece of land once part of a ranch owned by Fowler and Anne McCormick.

The McCormicks donated the land to Scottsdale in the 1960s, and it can be enjoyed these days as one of the top most fascinating Phoenix attractions.

Their stepson – Guy Stillman – constructed a full-fledged railroad (of a narrow gauge variety, for the train nerds out there!) and named it the Paradise and Pacific Railroad.

Eventually, the park used that as a theme and built all sorts of showcases and exhibits based on the rail theme.

The train also still runs right now, with a journey through tracks spanning over 1.1 kilometers.

If you’re not too keen on moving attractions, consider instead the Roald Amundsen Pullman Car, which has been used by famous individuals such as Harry Truman, Franklin Roosevelt, and Dwight Eisenhower since its creation in 1928.

There is also the Magma Arizona Railroad Engine #6, built in 1907, and the Charro Carousel, which dates back to 1950.

Address:  7301 E Indian Bend Rd, Scottsdale, AZ 85250, United States

33. Tempe Beach Park

Tempe Town Lake itself is a great recreational spot in Phoenix, Arizona, but it’s Tempe Beach Park that really takes the cake as the best the place has to offer.

Its expanse covers 25 acres along the south of the shore across from Papago Park, and it’s known for beautiful sunsets.

If you’re wondering what to do in this beach park, don’t work, for there are plenty of options.

Visitors to this park near Phoenix can rent water vehicles such as paddleboards, rowboats, kayaks, and pedal-boats to explore the water or rent scooters and bikes to make the most of the available trail, which spans five miles.

Kids will be able to enjoy an exciting splash playground.

Adults and others interested can also take a trip to the amphitheater, which often hosts shows and concerts, accommodating 5,000 people at a time.

Address:  80 W Rio Salado Pkwy, Tempe, AZ 85281, United States

34. MacAlpine’s Diner & Soda Fountain

MacAlpine’s Diner & Soda Fountain

One of the most loved eateries in Phoenix is MacAlpine’s Diner and Soda Fountain – and it’s also among the oldest that still stands in Phoenix.

The building started out as a pharmacy in the 1920s before adding a soda fountain in 1938 – and even then, it was a soda fountain and pharmacy until 1991 before becoming a diner!

If a diner can be fun and provide entertainment, MacAlpine’s certainly does just that.

Enjoy old-fashioned meals that still hold up now, with classics such as phosphates, egg creams, malts, and a whopping 99 different flavors of soda!

This includes basic cola and fruit flavors to more exotic and unusual offerings, like red velvet and bubblegum.

Address:  2303 N 7th St, Phoenix, AZ 85006, United States

35. Heritage Square

Mariusz S. Jurgielewicz / Shutterstock

Wonder what Phoenix, Arizona looked like years ago?

Head on down to Heritage Square in downtown Phoenix and you’ll get a pretty good idea – and it’s a fun destination for guests to the city, too.

Heritage Square allows you to feast your eyes on a rather delightful mix of old buildings, from businesses and residences dating all the way back to the era between 1881 and 1923.

This includes stunning sites like the Hughes-Stevens Duplex and the Forest Burgess Carriage House.

Among the old buildings, which are repurposed today, you’ll find restaurants, bars, museums, and shops.

36. Children’s Museum of Phoenix

Children’s Museum of Phoenix

The Children’s Museum of Phoenix is one of the absolute best among things to see and experience in this city, with all sorts of activities designed to occupy, educate, and entrance kids.

The museum spans three floors and a surprisingly 48,000 square feet, with all sorts of exhibits and 300 play experiences for children between the ages of infancy and ten years old.

Examples of some exciting exhibits are a noodle forest, a place for fort-building, a miniature market, a kiddie cafe, Pedal Power, the Schuff-Perini Climber, and BlockMania.

Guests are also welcome to bring their own food and eat at a designated dining space.

Admission into the museum is free for children below the age of 12 months, and for everyone else, it’s $12 per individual.

Address:  215 N 7th St, Phoenix, AZ 85034, United States

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37. i.d.e.a. Museum

Kirs10 at English Wikipedia / CC BY-SA

Yet another one of the most fun and kid-friendly attractions to visit in the city of Phoenix, Arizona, the i.d.e.a Museum is a great option for younger children.

It provides exciting play for young kids while making sure each activity is full of education regarding basic concepts, including those for practical, motor, and scientific skills.

Exhibits at this Phoenix museum are largely interactive, and some appeal directly to many different children, such as a showcase of cartoon monsters (delivered in a friendly, non-frightening way), plenty of hands-on bits and bobs, and a look into comic book characters of history.

Kids aged below one year old get to go in for free to the i.d.e.a Museum, while everyone else only needs to pay $8 per person for admission.

Address:  150 W Pepper Pl, Mesa, AZ 85201, United States

38. Her Secret Is Patience

Irwin Scott / flickr

The beautiful work of art known as “ Her Secret Is Patience ” is among the best public sculptures you’ll find in Phoenix, Arizona.

Its name is taken from a Ralph Waldo Emerson quote which you may have heard before: “Adopt the pace of nature; her secret is patience.”

The installation is shown off in the Phoenix Civic Space Park and was created by Janet Echelman.

It is an aerial artwork that reaches an imposing 145 feet in height, and even more shockingly, it’s suspended, so it exists 100 feet in the air away from land.

In the day, the structure moves, casting shadows in shapes.

At night, it is brightly lit, and its colors rotate seasonally.

What, exactly, is it made of? And how was it made?

Well, the cumulative result is thanks to a big team of planners, fabricators, engineers, lighting designers, and architects, working together with colored lights, galvanized steel, and polyester twine netting to shape this huge work of art.

Address: 424 N Central Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85004, United States

39. MacDonalds’ Ranch

For a good, old-fashioned fun time for the whole family, head over to McDonald’s’ Ranch near Phoenix, Arizona.

Essentially, the ranch offers programs and schedules where you get to ride through the harsh Phoenix desert or other places.

You’re taught how desert and wilderness survival works, including how to find water and food, how to tell which way is north and south, and of course, how horseriding works!

There are a variety of different tour lengths, and you get a lot of information and education for your time.

You also get to sort of bond with the horse you’re riding, which is always a great bonus!

Reserving a tour in advance is highly recommended so you get a time slot!

Address:  26540 N Scottsdale Rd, Scottsdale, AZ 85255, United States

40. Butterfly Wonderland

Rosemarie Mosteller / Shutterstock

If you’re looking for the top things to do in Phoenix for whimsical insect-lovers, look no further than Butterfly Wonderland .

Though it sounds like a fun butterfly amusement park, it’s actually much, much more than that: a tropical conservatory that features and helps more than just the beautiful insects in its title.

This interesting Phoenix, Arizona location has its main attraction: the Butterfly Pavilion, which is a huge indoor enclosure that features thousands upon thousands of butterflies that happily and freely fly about.

Some lucky visitors who get there at the right time even get to see some of these vibrant and pretty insects break free from a chrysalis.

But there’s much more to be seen here, too!

Butterfly Wonderland features a sideshow of poisonous critters from the desert, like scorpions and spiders.

There is also a freshwater aquarium called OdySea in the Desert, a honey bee showcase, an exhibit of reptiles, and a 3D theater!

Address:  9500 East Vía de Ventura F100, Scottsdale, AZ 85256, United States

41. Superstition Mountain Museum

Ritu Manoj Jethani / Shutterstock

With a name like Superstition Mountain Museum , you’d think that this attraction would be on the top of the list of activities to do, especially given how close it is to Goldfield Ghost Town!

Strangely enough, it’s not a particularly famous location, though it does deserve to be.

The Superstition Mountain Museum primarily contains information about the mysterious Lost Dutchman Mine, which no one has been able to locate since the passing away of the Dutchman.

Many have studied maps drawn by the Dutchman himself and have even gone on expeditions across Phoenix to find it, but none have succeeded.

While you’re at the museum, don’t forget to check out Apacheland, which is right behind it and was once used to film many different movies!

Address:  4087 N Apache Trail, Apache Junction, AZ 85119, United States

42. Anthem Veterans Memorial

Anthem Veterans Memorial

One of the more somber Phoenix attractions and a top option for the patriotic, the Anthem Veterans Memorial is only visible in its complete glory once a year – and for only one minute a year, at that!

At 11:11 on the 11th of November, all five pillars of this beautiful memorial will align at the exact angle to form a shadow in the shape of America’s seal.

The five pillars are representative of an arm of the military of the United States.

Within the Circle of Honor on the Phoenix, Arizona monument, you can read the many names of the brave men and women who have served their country.

The closed circle of the Circle of Honor is a representation of an unbreakable border.

The pavers on the Circle of Honor, made from brick, are colored in red, while the pillars are white, and the sky above is blue to symbolize the colors of the American flag.

How exactly did this structure come to be?

Well, it was created with something known as a fixed azimuth, which is essentially a horizontal angle noted down at the correct time, according to Jim Martin, the chief engineer behind the memorial.

The monument itself can thank Renee Palmer-Jones for its lovely design!

It is also a copyrighted work, meaning it cannot be reproduced anywhere else.

Address:  41703 N Gavilan Peak Pkwy, Phoenix, AZ 85086, United States

43. Phoenix Fan Fusion

Gage Skidmore / flickr

It’s not exactly a tourist “location”, but Phoenix Fan Fusion is among the most fun and exciting things you can check out if you’re at this Arizona city at the right time.

Originally called the Phoenix Comic Fest, this comic convention is definitely at the peak of the list of what to do for pop culture nerds!

This event saw its beginnings back in 2002 when it was just a small gathering held at the Ahwatukee branch of the Best Western Hotel.

Now, it needs a whole convention center and brings in famous guests and speakers and over 100,000 fans per year!

Address:  100 N 3rd St, Phoenix, AZ 85004, United States

44. South Mountain Park and Preserve

antsdrone / Shutterstock

Looking for some fun sightseeing options in Phoenix, Arizona?

The South Mountain Park and Preserve is a great urban park to do the trick, and it’s officially considered a Phoenix Point of Pride while being among America’s largest parks of its kind.

South Mountain Park and Preserve first began being plotted back in the 1920s, and it now has more than 16,000 acres to its name, consisting of 60 trails and plenty of stunning desert panoramas to take in.

There are a few options for things to check out in the preserve.

You can bike, ride a horse, or hike through the trails, head out on one of Ponderosa Stables’ Wild West horseback tours, check out some petroglyphs, keep an eye out for chuckwallas, gaze at the elephant trees, or even head to the South Mountain Environmental Education Center.

And yes, there is a lot more to do besides that, as well!

Address:  10919 S Central Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85042, United States

45. World Championship Hoop Dance Contest

Paul B. Moore / Shutterstock

The World Championship Hoop Dance Contest is an extremely fascinating event that is basically the top competition of its kind across the globe.

Audience members get to see an interesting form of art where dancers use hoops in order to make various symbols, backed by upbeat and thematic music.

Judgment is made based on creativity, speed, rhythm, showmanship, and precision.

The competition lasts for two days and has five different age categories.

Those under five and over 40 are on the far end of each spectrum.

More importantly, the World Championship Hoop Dance Contest honors traditions from Native Americans and First Nation Canadian tribes.

In those cultures, these hoop dances are big parts of healing ceremonies.

Sure, it’s not technically something you can consider among the places to visit in Phoenix, as it’s an event that happens in February at the famous Heard Museum, but that’s no reason it shouldn’t be on this list!

Address: 2301 N Central Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85004, United States

46. Tempe Town Lake

We briefly mentioned the Tempe Town Lake before this, and now it’s time to bring it up again!

The two-mile lake is located in the middle of the Phoenix Metropolitan Area, formed as a result of the damming of the Salt River.

Its waters now flow in from the Colorado River, and the lake has been around since the 1990s.

This Phoenix, Arizona spot is one of the most beautiful places to see, especially within such arid desert.

There are lots of fun ways to circle the five-mile circumference of the Tempe Town Lake.

The road is paved for all manners of travelers, and you can walk, jog, cycle, or skate your way through – or, perhaps, you could sign up for a segway tour!

Address: 620 North Mill Avenue, Tempe, AZ 85281, United States

47. Governor Hunt Tomb

The bright white pyramid in the middle of Papago Park in Phoenix stands out rather significantly, and it’s a bit confusing as to why it’s there.

The truth isn’t too odd, though – it’s the final resting place of George W. P Hunt, the first governor of Arizona.

He was in office from 1912 to 1933 and was nicknamed Old Walrus.

He was widely known as a “good man”, as he supported equality for women and women’s suffrage, and he is said to have had a very good heart.

Of course, as someone from that era, Hunt was a freemason.

This is likely why he decided that his final resting place would be this luxuriously white-tiled pyramid, true to the symbol of the freemasons.

His wife, his parents-in-law, and his sister-in-law are also buried here.

The Governor Hunt Tomb is a true sight to behold and requires only a short walk up Phoenix’s Papago Park.

It’s undoubtedly one of the best of this city’s places to visit, especially for history buffs!

48. Penske Racing Museum

Penske Racing Museum

For fans of cars and the fun, competitive sport of racing, the Penske Racing Museum of Phoenix, Arizona is nothing short of a must see.

The museum is centered on the beautiful and rich history of Penske Racing’s automobile racing dynasty, with a huge collection of memorabilia, trophies, and even cars to show off.

Penske Racing has been a player in the field for more than four decades, and they’ve won 300 major races.

It’s no surprise that they’re not just the most famous racing dynasty in Phoenix but in the entire world!

You can find the Penske Racing Museum at the Scottsdale 101 Auto Collection.

Address:  7125 E Chauncey Ln, Phoenix, AZ 85054, United States

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49. Enchanted Island Amusement Park

If you’re looking for something exciting to do in Phoenix, Arizona this weekend, you might not consider that some of your best options may be amusement parks!

The Enchanted Island Amusement Park , located in the middle of Encanto Park, is a small and simple theme park that has a decent selection of things that a family can enjoy.

The Enchanted Island Amusement Park is not a big park and only has 9 rides, not including a C.P. Huntington train and a carousel, and a small but reasonable number of snack and game stalls.

In the summer, there is a splash zone, too, and there are pedal-boats that you can hop onto in order to view the rest of Encanto Park.

Most importantly, admission to Phoenix’s Enchanted Island Amusement Park is completely free!

Address:  1202 W Encanto Blvd, Phoenix, AZ 85007, United States

50. Bondurant High Performance Driving School

Bondurant High Performance Driving School

The Bondurant High Performance Driving School is an interesting spot when it comes to educational activities in Phoenix, Arizona.

If you’re willing to spend the cash, you’ll be able to learn about Grand Prix Racing techniques or even simple defensive driving.

It can be odd to think about a school specifically for driving, but since its conception in the year 1990, the Bondurant High Performance Driving School has received nothing but impeccable praise.

The school was opened by Bob Bondurant and now contains over 200 different vehicles that are all race-ready.

Those who get a chance to try out their racing skills at the Bondurant High Performance Driving School will be able to rush around a 1.6-mile track.

For those who prefer a slower pace, they can tour the facility, which spans 60 acres and meet multiple world-class teachers.

Sure, it’s unorthodox, but it’s undoubtedly one of the most fun things to do around Phoenix!

Address:  20000 S. Maricopa Rd., Gate #3, Chandler, AZ 85226, United States

51. Talking Stick Resort

Talking Stick Resort

Arizona has a history of being a winter getaway for the rich, and Talking Stick Resort owes its existence to that history.

Located on the border of the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Reservation, the resort is a luxurious escape only a short drive away from the city of Phoenix.

The resort itself combines a luxury hotel, two golf courses, and a massive casino filled with over 50 table games and hundreds of slot machines.

And that’s before considering the complex’s 650-seater showroom and Grand Ballroom, the latter already an impressive event venue in its own right.

Guests to this hotel will have the entrance privilege to an entertainment schedule that includes celebrity names like Foreigner and Jay Leno.

Though if that’s not quite your cup of tea, the 14th floor is home to one of the best open-air spas in the vicinity, where the height gives you an incredible view of the surrounding valley.

At the very least, consider dropping by the hotel lobby to check out a cultural center and exhibition dedicated to the Pima and Maricopa peoples’ heritage.

The incredible exhibition pieces alone will certainly be worth the trip!

Address:  9800 Talking Stick Way, Scottsdale, AZ 85256, United States

52. Scottsdale Fashion Square

Phoenix is a fun city to be in – but considering its location in the desert, it should come as no surprise that it gets incredibly hot.

So why not beat the heat by ducking into a shopping mall that happens to be one of the city’s many tourist attractions?

With three floors and over 255 tenants, Scottsdale Fashion Square makes its name in Phoenix as the largest shopping mall in Arizona.

Despite its age, the shopping mall hasn’t remained stagnant in its design.

The last 60 years have seen it undergo several expansions and renovations, allowing it to keep up with the times in both size and design.

Shopaholics will be pleased to find mid-level entry brands like H&M, Zara, and Gap sitting comfortably next to premium brands like Burberry, Gucci, and Jimmy Choo.

There’s also food outlets and a movie theatre here to check out if you just want to enjoy a casual afternoon outing!

Address:  7014 E Camelback Rd, Scottsdale, AZ 85251, United States

53. Navajo Code Talkers Tribute

Jon Kraft / Shutterstock

It only makes sense for history aficionados sightseeing in Arizona to visit this Native American tribute to the tribal members who were responsible for the United State’s successful wartime communication.

While both World Wars saw the contributive efforts of many Native American tribal members, the encryption specialists are well known now as the Navajo Code Talkers.

Dedicated to the Code Talkers and their invaluable service, the Navajo Code Talkers Tribute is a giant sculpture of a young boy in traditional grab situated prominently in midtown Phoenix.

In the sculpture’s hand is a flute – a traditional Navajo communication symbol of peace.

Designed and sculpted by Vietnam War veteran Doug Hyde, the sculpture is a quiet reminder of the sacrifices made by Native peoples during the World Wars.

It’s certainly worth a stop at Phoenix to see, especially if you wish to understand history a little better.

Address: 22 E Thomas Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85012, United States

54. Desert Ridge Marketplace

jessica.kirsh / Shutterstock

Arizona is undoubtedly full of beautiful sights, but its desert landscapes can get unbearably hot – especially during summer afternoons.

So it only makes sense to try ducking out of the blazing midday heat into someplace cool and shady – like the Desert Ridge Marketplace !

Filled with shady palm trees, this outdoor mall doesn’t just offer all sorts of stores – it also offers all sorts of entertainment and dining options for everyone.

After a shopping spree, visitors can check out the 18-screen cinema, or dine in at one of the 30-plus options available at the shopping mall.

If you drop by on a weekend, you may be able to enjoy one of the many street performances in the general location!

Still looking for more fun?

The place is home to a bustling nightlife too, with live comedy shows, band performances, and nightly DJ sets.

All you have to do is just drop on by to enjoy yourself!

Address:  21001 N Tatum Blvd, Phoenix, AZ 85050, United States

55. Phoenix Art Museum

BondRocketImages / Shutterstock

Located in downtown Phoenix is the Phoenix Art Museum – a world-class establishment best known for its dedication to the preservation and exhibition of both classical and contemporary art.

The art museum traces its history back to 1912, just after Arizona joined the fledgling United States.

At the time, the Phoenix Art Museum was a community art collection.

It has grown since then, and finally saw inauguration in 1959 as a proper museum and is now renowned for its art collections.

The real star of its collections, however, is their Latin American cache containing works, decorative pieces, and furniture from artists like Diego Rivera and Frida Kahlo.

That’s not to say that this will be a dreary visit for families, however – the museum plays hosts to some high-quality temporary exhibitions, some of which are interactive.

Families can also enjoy the Thorne Miniature Rooms, which are meticulously period-accurate rooms scaled down to 1:12 their original size.

Regardless of your age, it is certainly a feast for the eyes!

Address:  1625 N Central Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85004, United States

56. FilmBar

Sean Davis / flickr

There aren’t a lot of art-house theatres anymore, so it’s easy to see why FilmBar is on top of the list of things to see while in Phoenix.

So if you happen to be traveling through Arizona and are close to Phoenix, consider dropping by the coolest art house theatre in the city to watch all sorts of indie films on your list of activities!

Here, film buffs can munch on a tamale or some popcorn while watching documentaries and indie films.

Or join in one of the venue’s Sing-A-Long event nights – the perfect chance for wannabe singers to belt along to all sorts of famous musicals!

Address:  815 N 2nd St, Phoenix, AZ 85004, United States

57. Phoenix Bat Cave

On the hunt for some fun points of interest in Arizona?

The Phoenix Bat Cave may just be the answer you seek.

Despite its name, the cave is not an actual, natural cave.

Rather, it is a flood control tunnel that is regularly taken over by 10,000 to 20,000 Mexican Free-Tailed bats in need of a temporary home.

Visitors dropping by during the months of May to October will find this bat “cave” to be a resting point for bats migrating south to Mexico.

Arriving at dusk is ideal, as it is when these bats fly out and fill out the sky as they feed on bugs and insects.

It is certainly a sight to behold, especially considering how close it is to Phoenix!

For the most part, the bats are seemingly unafraid of humans – so do watch out for some near misses as they swoop right past you!

Just make sure to keep quiet while watching these spectacular creatures in action, and to follow the instructions laid out on signboards in the vicinity.

You wouldn’t want to disturb their echolocation, after all!

Address:  3698-3694 E Colter St, Phoenix, AZ 85018, United States

58. Taste It Tours

Taste It Tours

A must do while in Phoenix is certainly the Taste It Tours .

This food-based tour takes its participants on a gastronomical adventure through the city, where you will be introduced to a memorable experience – some of the greatest culinary hotspots in the local food scene!

The tours are owned and run by a local named Jessica Combest, who is more than happy to show visitors why this city is considered a food mecca in Arizona.

Tour participants will be taken to 4 or 5 different hidden gems spread throughout Scottsdale and Phoenix, where they get to experience what the neighborhood culinary experience is like.

Food may be the highlight of this tour, but it isn’t the only one either.

Participants will also get a chance to see and learn about the rich heritage and beautiful architecture the city has to hold.

All in all, this tour promises to provide foodies a culinary experience they won’t forget!

Address:  4400 N Scottsdale Rd #11, Scottsdale, AZ 85251, United States

59. The Hive

If you’re exploring Arizona this weekend and are taking an obligatory stop in Phoenix, why not make it a fun stay?

Located in central Phoenix is The Hive – a special collective that aims to bring both purveyors of the arts (both visual and performing) and enterprising entrepreneurs under a single roof.

This is the place to go in Phoenix if you’re on the hunt for the interesting, the handmade, or even just the artisanal.

Independent businesses like The Bee’s Knees offer a dizzying selection of vintage clothes, while Wasted Ink Zine Distro offers both rotating exhibitions, art galleries, and magazines from across the globe.

When you’re done checking out the incredible amount of DIY and handmade merchandise on sale, why not get yourself some coffee from Buzz Beans?

Either way, The Hive promises its visitors a wonderful cultural experience!

Address:  2222 N 16th St, Phoenix, AZ 85006, United States

60. Pioneer Living History Museum

Pioneer Living History Museum

Considering just how much history Arizona has bleeding out of its landscape, it should come as no surprise that one of the best things to do in Phoenix is to visit its many museums.

Young fans of the Old West in particular will find the kid-friendly Pioneer Living History Museum to be an especially fun experience – and it isn’t hard to see why!

Located in North Phoenix, the outdoor museum is a slightly kitschy replica of an Old West pioneering town, scaled down for children.

Children will get a chance to live out an exciting version of what it must have been like to live in a pioneering frontier town that sprawls out across a massive 90 acres!

Address:  3901 W Pioneer Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85086, United States

Start Planning Your Trip To Phoenix

Now that you’ve seen our list of all the tourist attractions and places to go in Phoenix, Arizona, hopefully, you’ve got some of the best vacation spots !

Whether you’re going today, tonight, tomorrow, this week, this weekend, or next weekend, you can bet your bottom dollar that you’ll never run out of what to do in Phoenix.

All you have to do is plan your trip and pick the spots that are best for you!

19 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Phoenix, AZ

Written by Lana Law Updated Dec 25, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Author Lana Law has spent many winters in Arizona and Phoenix is one of her favorite cities.

Phoenix's warm, dry climate attracts sun lovers and those looking to escape the snow and cold during the winter months. The city offers abundant arts and cultural attractions, historic neighborhoods, as well as shopping, dining, and an outstanding selection of resorts and hotels .

Many people come here simply to enjoy the outdoors. Golfing is one of the top things to do in Phoenix, but you'll also find opportunities for hiking, biking, camping , and climbing.

If you are spending more than just a few days here, you may want to consider doing some day trips from Phoenix to nearby towns and tourist attractions. Within easy reach are communities like Sedona, Prescott, and Jerome. If you're up for a big day, you can even do a trip to the Grand Canyon.

The Phoenix Metropolitan Area, which includes the cities of Phoenix, Mesa, and Scottsdale, is spread out and covers a large area. Plan your sightseeing in advance to save time with our list of the best things to do in Phoenix.

See also: Where to Stay in Phoenix

1. Desert Botanical Garden

2. musical instrument museum, 3. taliesin west, 4. hiking trails around phoenix, 5. heard museum, 6. old town scottsdale, 7. south mountain park, 8. hall of flame fire museum, 9. papago park, 10. phoenix art museum, 11. phoenix zoo, 12. odysea aquarium, 13. arizona science center, 14. arizona state capitol museum, 15. north mountain & shaw butte, 16. phoenix children's museum, 17. phoenix symphony, 18. enjoy the rides at castles n' coasters, 19. pueblo grande museum, where to stay in phoenix for sightseeing, tips and tours: how to make the most of your visit to phoenix, map of attractions & things to do in phoenix, az.

Located in Papago Park, the Desert Botanical Garden is a beautiful complex that combines art and nature. Art installations dot the gardens , adding another dimension to this beautiful space.

The 140-acre complex is home to tens of thousands of plants and displays examples of vegetation from deserts around the world. This is also a good place to spot hummingbirds and butterflies, with designated gardens designed to attract these creatures.

Extensive trails wind their way around the property, and you should plan on spending a significant amount of time walking. Spring is a particularly good time to visit, as the plants come to life and bloom in an array of colors.

Address: 1201 North Galvin Parkway, Phoenix, Arizona

The Musical Instruments Museum is one of the largest of its kind in the world , with a collection of more than 8,000 instruments from almost 200 countries.

Housed in a spectacular building are five permanent galleries, including the Geographic Gallery; the Artists Gallery; the Mechanical Music Gallery; the STEM Gallery; and the Experience Gallery, where you can play some of the instruments. You can also see master craftsmen at work restoring instruments in the Conservation Lab.

The museum hosts special traveling exhibits and has a variety of Signature Events, showcasing instruments and live music from countries around the world. Catch a concert in the facility's 300-seat theater.

Address: 4725 E. Mayo Boulevard, Phoenix, Arizona

Located in Scottsdale, Taliesin West was the winter home of the celebrated architect Frank Lloyd Wright . Situated in the foothills of the McDowell Mountains, this property is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and also the international headquarters of the Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation.

Even if you have only the smallest interest in architecture, this is a worthwhile addition to your Phoenix itinerary. The tours offer detailed information on the architecture and Wright's life.

The buildings here were constructed out of native materials, such as rubblestone and redwood, and built entirely by Wright and his apprentices from 1937 to 1959.

Address: 12345 North Taliesin Drive, Scottsdale, Arizona

Looking for something to do outdoors? A walk through the desert is always a pleasant way to spend a morning or a day, and Phoenix offers a full range of hiking trails for all levels of hikers.

At one extreme are the trails for the adventurous hiker, like the hike up Camelback Mountain , and at the other end of the spectrum are short, easy trails, perfect for birders and nature lovers. You'll find some of these at Papago Park or the Lost Dog Wash Trailhead .

Somewhere in between these are Mormon Trail and Pinnacle Peak , which offer a bit of a challenge and elevation, along with beautiful views.

For a more comprehensive look, see our list of the top hikes in the Phoenix area to plan your outing.

The renowned Heard Museum in Phoenix, dating from 1929, is devoted to the art and culture of the Indian peoples of the Southwest . The Heard is noted for its amazing displays of basketwork, pottery, jewelry, textiles, and a large collection of kachina dolls.

The museum's exhibit galleries and outdoor courtyards feature traditional and contemporary Native American art. This is a great place for families to learn about native history and see traditional arts.

Outside, you can wander through the outdoor sculpture garden or take a garden tour of the museum. The museum also has a very pleasant outdoor café with courtyard seating and a menu that changes regularly and features special dishes to complement the featured exhibit.

Address: 2301 North Central Avenue, Phoenix, Arizona

For fun and quirky, one of the best places to visit around Phoenix is Old Town Scottsdale. Unique shops housed in buildings with Western-style covered walkways sell a variety of trinkets and other goods, primarily aimed at tourists.

Just up the street from the kitschy shops are some of the city's finest galleries featuring spectacular work by famous artists. Downtown Scottsdale is a fun place to see and be seen.

Old Town also has a good selection of restaurants, some with delightful patio seating, perfect for people-watching. The area is easily walkable and can be found at the intersection of East Main Street and North Scottsdale Road.

A fun way to tour the area and see the sites is on a two-hour Scottsdale Segway Tour . This will take you along the waterfront, past some of the historic sites, and through Old Town.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions & Things to Do in Scottsdale

South Mountain Park/Preserve in Phoenix is one of the largest city parks in the United States , covering over 16,000 acres of desert landscape. The miles of trails running through the park are ideal for hiking, horseback riding, and mountain biking . One of the most popular trails is the Mormon Trail.

Views out over the desert and beyond to the city are fabulous. If you are looking for things to do at night in Phoenix, come here after dark for an incredible look at the city lights.

The highest point in the park is Mount Suppoa at 2,690 feet, but the highest lookout, which can be reached by trail or road, is Dobbins Lookout at 2,330 feet.

Every fourth Sunday is Silent Sunday, where the park's main thoroughfare, Summit Road, is closed from 5am to 7pm to all motorized traffic. On these special days, the wide-open roadway is reserved for those human-powered activities, including walking, jogging, and cycling. On the first, second, and third Sundays, the same roadway is closed, but only to the one-mile marker.

Address: 10919 South Central Avenue, Phoenix, Arizona

The Hall of Flame Fire Museum is both a historical look at the profession and a tribute to firefighters who have been killed in the line of duty, or noted for their heroism.

On display at the museum are exhibits dating back to 1725, including old fire engines and some very curious types of fire extinguishers. While most of the focus is on the history of firefighting in America, you'll also see exhibits from Europe and Japan, offering a more international perspective on the profession.

The National Firefighting Hall of Heroes displays the names of those killed since 1981. There is also a memorial to the firefighters and police officers killed at the World Trade Center in 2001.

Address: 6101 East Van Buren Street, Phoenix, Arizona

Papago Park is a wonderful natural area in the southeast part of the city. If you're looking for activities and fun things to do in Phoenix, this park is a good place to start. Here you you can enjoy hiking along nature trails, scrambling up the red rocks that dominate the park, cycling the extensive routes, and even golfing.

This is a popular place to come for a walk, particularly in the morning before the heat of the day, and you'll see the citizens of Phoenix taking full advantage of this urban oasis.

Papago Park has a multitude of trails, but the two most popular are the Elliot Ramada and the Double Butte Loop trail . Both these trails take you up to the weird rock outcroppings that are a key feature of the park. You can sometimes see wildlife, primarily rabbits but occasionally bighorn sheep.

Also located in Papago Park are the Phoenix Zoo and the Desert Botanical Garden .

Address: 625 North Galvin Parkway, Phoenix, Arizona

The Phoenix Art Museum has a permanent collection covering the art of the European Renaissance and Baroque periods, the Far East, and the American West. The museum also presents modern and contemporary works, fashion design, live performances, and films.

The classically progressive look of its 203,000-square-foot building is a work of art in itself. Designed by New York architects Tod Williams/Billie Tsien & Associates in the mid-1990s and expanded by them in 2006, it integrates art and architecture with the southwestern landscape.

The museum's founding in 1959 and eventual development into one of the leading art museums in the American Southwest reflects the constant commitment from the community and mirrors the growth of Phoenix from a small desert town to the current metropolis it has become.

Address: 1625 North Central Avenue, Phoenix, Arizona

While the Phoenix Zoo is home to more than 3,000 animals, including numerous endangered species, it's especially well known for its Sumatran tigers and orangutans.

The four different trails leading through the facility are the Africa Trail, Tropics Trail, Arizona Trail, and Children's Trail. The zoo also offers children's programs and events, splash pads, and play areas, so pack your bathing suits and towels.

Animal encounters are a special part of any visit and truly a highlight at the Phoenix Zoo. The Monkey Village will have you snapping pictures as your kids walk through an open exhibit with monkeys swinging by.

Another encounter that will generate squeals of delight is the Red Barn. It's a petting zoo with goats, sheep, and horses all happy to engage with little people. Other experiences include the gentle giraffe encounter, Stingray Bay encounter, and the ever-popular camel rides.

If you've had enough of the animals, take a ride on the Endangered Animals carousel, where each animal is unique.

Address: 455 North Galvin Parkway, Phoenix, Arizona

Although it may seem odd to find a giant aquarium in the middle of the parched desert, somehow it all comes together in an enjoyable maritime learning experience. The OdySea Aquarium at 200,000 square feet is the largest of its kind in the Southwest and a wonderful place to step out of the arid environment into a water-based world.

The concept is that you are a raindrop falling from the sky into freshwater and then you make your way through streams and rivers before finding your way to the ocean. Over 70 exhibits, many of them interactive, line the pathway from start to finish.

Just follow the pathway through the facility, around each corner, and on each level, you'll find new and interesting exhibits along with three different touch pools including the world's only Russian Sturgeon exhibit. Over 6,000 aquatic animals exist here, ranging from penguins through to sharks, stingrays, otters, and octopuses. The Odysea even has a sloth, along with tropical birds.

Educational shows take place throughout the facility, one of the most unique being the Voyager a presentation making you feel you are in a submarine. For an additional fee, you can experience the SeaTREK® indoor, underwater helmet diving, where you descend into a pool filled with fish in a special diving suit or have an animal interaction with the penguins.

Although it may sound strange to highlight Odysea's restrooms, be sure you check them out for the glass ceiling above the sinks, complete with sharks and other aquatic creatures casually swimming by.

Address: 9500 E Via De Ventura, Scottsdale, Arizona

The Arizona Science Center has hundreds of interactive exhibits in seven galleries, each with a unique theme. Also on-site are an IMAX theater and a 200-seat planetarium . This is the perfect thing for families to do in Phoenix, especially on a day when the weather doesn't cooperate.

The Science Center holds six signature events throughout the year, including Weird Science Halloween; Science with a Twist; and Snow Week, where Science Park hill becomes a mountain of white, covered with 75 tons of real snow.

Address: 600 East Washington Street, Phoenix, Arizona

Set among beautiful gardens is the old State Capitol, built in 1900, which was the seat of government until 1974. The imposing state building is now a free museum focusing on the history of Arizona.

The exhibits are spread over four floors, and one of the must-see displays is the unique Arizona flag, made of 113,998 Lego bricks. Each Lego brick represents one mile in the state.

Other notable highlights include the Arizona Takes Shape exhibit, showcasing the state's development, from when it was a territory through to the present day, along with the USS Arizona exhibit.

For a thought-provoking experience, be sure to check out the Capitol Mall and Wesley Bolin Plaza memorial monuments.

Address: 1700 West Washington Street, Phoenix, Arizona

North Mountain Preserve is a popular recreational area with all kinds of hiking trails . North Mountain stands at an elevation of 2,104 feet, and Shaw Butte, the tallest mountain in the preserve, stands at 2,149 feet. Together these mountains are a landmark feature in Phoenix.

The more advanced hiking trails in the preserve lead to the summit, but easier hikes offer access to all levels of abilities. This is a lovely way to experience the local flora and fauna, with many plant species, including saguaro cactus.

Be sure to stop in at the North Mountain Visitors Center to get the latest updates on the trails, learn about the local history, get some insight on the flora and fauna, and top up your water bottles.

Address: 12950 North 7th Street, Phoenix, Arizona

The Phoenix Children's Museum opened in 2008 and has been going strong ever since. Today it's one of the city's most popular family attractions. The 14 galleries full of fun and interesting displays are designed to engage growing minds.

Some of the galleries include the Noodle Forest, Blockmania, Pedal Power, and the Texture Café, among others. Attentive staff, called Playologists, are always on hand to help.

The Phoenix Children's Museum is just around the corner from the Arizona Science Center in downtown Phoenix; combining trips to both is easily accomplished.

Address: 215 N. 7th Street, Phoenix, Arizona

The Phoenix Symphony , led by the talented conductor Matthew Kasper, performs classical, pop, chamber, and family programs throughout the year. As Arizona's only full-time symphony orchestra, this is a staple in Phoenix's cultural scene. If you're looking for a night out while in town, check their online calendar for a list of upcoming performances.

Be sure to note the performance venues. The Phoenix Symphony performs at five different locations: Symphony Hall, Mesa Arts Center, Pinnacle Presbyterian Church, Orpheum Church, and ASU Gammage.

Address: 75 North 2nd Street, Phoenix, Arizona

A great outing that everyone in the family can agree on is Castles-N-Coasters . The 10-acre park is a mix of roller coasters, mini golf, water rides, bumper boats, bumper cars, go-carts, and arcades. No matter your age, you'll be sure to find something that gets your heart racing.

The most intense ride is the double-looped Desert Storm roller coaster. A little less frightening but still a thrill is the Skydiver, where you free-fall from 120 feet in the air. For something a bit different, head into the completely crazy Stranger Stuff Fun House. If the Phoenix heat is starting to wear you down, head on over to the Splashdown log flume water ride.

If you still have energy, wander on over to the Indy Carts, and race against your friends, or take in a nutty game of mini golf. If after that you still want to keep going, head to the bumper cars or the Sea Dragon ride, or the XD Dark Ride; the list goes on and on.

Address: 9445 North Metro Parkway East, Phoenix, Arizona

Phoenix, with its non-stop highways and modern infrastructure, may leave you pining for something historical. A stop at the Pueblo Grande Museum is the solution. Here, you'll find the well-preserved ruins of a Hohokam village dating from 500 BCE.

Tour the site along a two-thirds-of-a-mile trail and discover the remains of this once-thriving settlement, including irrigation canals, a ballcourt, and replicas of the homes these ancient people used to live in.

The museum has done a good job of providing information on the former inhabitants using display panels strategically located throughout the site. Be sure to climb to the main lookout for a bird's-eye view of the entire site.

The Pueblo Grande Museum is located in the southern part of Phoenix near the airport.

Phoenix has a vibrant downtown with many tourist attractions, and this is one of the best places to stay if you're interested in sightseeing. Another option is to stay in downtown Scottsdale, near Old Town. Below are a number of highly rated hotels in convenient locations.

Luxury Hotels:

• One of the new luxury hotel options in downtown Phoenix is the Kimpton Hotel Palomar , located at the new CityScape development. This contemporary hotel features large rooms and suites and a beautiful rooftop pool.
• For hip and sophisticated, look to the Found:Re Phoenix . Located in the heart of Phoenix near numerous attractions, this boutique hotel offers 104 unique rooms featuring industrial-chic décor.
• For a quaint, luxury experience in the desert, you can't beat the comfort and hospitality of the Four Seasons Scottsdale at Troon North . In the foothills of Pinnacle Peak and next to the Troon North Golf Club, this is the perfect place for a relaxing escape.
• Another Scottsdale option is the ultra-cool, mid-century modern Hotel Valley Ho . This unique restored hotel, once the haunt of Hollywood celebrities, maintains a 1950s theme, from the music to the décor. Walking distance to Old Town Scottsdale, the location here is hard to beat, with shopping, dining, and numerous things to do in the vicinity.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• A consistently good choice in downtown Phoenix is the Hilton Garden Inn . Housed in a restored 1932 Art Deco building, the hotel offers modern, comfortable rooms and is within easy walking distance of the Convention Center.
• In the heart of the city center, the Renaissance Phoenix Downtown Hotel is an upper-end mid-range option with a heated rooftop pool.
• The Fairfield Inn and Suites Phoenix Midtown is within walking distance of the Heard Museum and the Phoenix Art Museum and offers free parking, unlike many downtown hotels.

Budget Hotels:

• Budget-minded travelers can find some deals in the city, although prices can vary depending on what is going on in Phoenix during your stay. Near downtown is the Comfort Inn West Phoenix at 27th Ave And I-10. This hotel provides decent rooms and good prices, and breakfast is included.

Sightseeing Tour:

• See the sights in four hours with this Half-Day Phoenix Highlights Tour . This tour will take you to the State Capitol, Old Town Scottsdale, Camelback Mountain, South Mountain Park, and more. The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation, a guide, and free time to explore on your own.

Day Trip to Sedona and the Grand Canyon:

• One of the greatest attractions in Arizona and America is just a day trip away from Phoenix. If you haven't seen the Grand Canyon, taking a tour from Phoenix should be on your to-do list. The Small-Group Deluxe Grand Canyon Day Trip offers the perfect opportunity to see some of the incredible Arizona landscape. This tour includes transportation in a luxury van to the Grand Canyon, including a stop in the picturesque town of Willams along famous Route 66.
• If flying over the Grand Canyon is on your wish list, the Grand Canyon Helicopter and Ground Tour from Phoenix is a must-do. This tour offers a scenic drive to the Grand Canyon and includes a 45-minute helicopter ride over the canyon.

Day Trip to Tombstone:

• For a glimpse of the Old West, take a Day Trip to Tombstone and San Xavier Mission , where you can see this historic town, including the OK corral, and stop at the beautiful mission at San Xavier de Bac.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

Day Trip Destinations: If you only have time for one trip outside of Phoenix, consider heading out to see the red rocks and top sites of Sedona , just two hours away. Here, you can hit some of the top hiking trails or ride the mountain biking trails .

Explore the Best of Arizona: To get you started planning your trip, see our list of top attractions and places to visit in Arizona . If you know you want to get active and see some of the state's most beautiful scenery, have a look at our recommendations for the best hiking trails in Arizona . Campers looking for ideas should browse through our list of top campgrounds in Arizona . Other recommended hot spots that may not be on your radar but should be, include Prescott and Flagstaff .

More on Arizona

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The 20 best attractions in Phoenix

One of the best attractions in Phoenix is the Phoenix zoo: home to 3,000 animals, it first opened in 1962

The hundreds of beautiful sunny days per year certainly lend a hand when exploring the best attractions in Phoenix. From the nationally acclaimed Phoenix Zoo (the largest privately owned, non-profit zoo in the country) to Camelback Mountain, which gets its name from its shape when seen from a distance, you'll notice that some of the best things to do in town involve the outdoors—and why not? When in Phoenix, you'll want to revel in the weather as much as possible.

Lovers of the indoors, worry not: we've got you covered (no pun intended). Our list of top attractions includes a bunch of must-see restaurants and bars, outstanding in both décor and offerings. 

And, yes, at the top of our ranking is a hotel —but not just any hotel. The Phoenician is stunning, has been visited by Presidents and shares property with the Jokake Inn, a private home from the 1900s that is now used for special events. That is surely attractive now isn't it?

RECOMMENDED: Full guide to the best   things to do in Phoenix

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Best attractions in Phoenix

1.  Phoenician Hotel

• Monterey Arcadia

One of the first luxury resorts in town, the Phoenician is a gem that has been visited by past Presidents, famous performers and professional athletes. It boasts spectacular views, both casual and fine dining culinary delights and incredibly comfortable room. The space has undergone a major transformation recently that has added a slew of new amenities to the destination. Attention to detail is what makes this resort special. While on the property, see the Jokake Inn, a private home from the 1900s now used for special events. Don’t miss out on the meditation and yoga classes on offer.

Photograph: Courtesy Yelp/ The Phoenician

2.  Musical Instrument Museum

• Paradise Valley

The Musical Instruments Museums displays over 6,000 objects and is the world’s only global instrument museum, representing 200 of the world’s countries and territories. An award-winning Smithsonian Affiliate, it uses state-of-the-art technology to allow guests to see the instruments, hear their sounds and watch them being played in their original contexts. Founded in 2010 by Robert Ulrich, the CEO emeritus of Target Corporations, the venue displays many instruments on loan from current musicians. Expect contraptions used by John Lennon, Carlos Santana and Taylor Swift.

Photograph: Courtesy Yelp/ Ed U.

3.  T. Cook's

• Camlback Corridor

T. Cook’s, an iconic Mediterranean restaurant, is the centerpiece of the Royal Palms Resort and Spa. The resort was once a 65-acre private property owned by Delos Cooke, a New York-based financier who moved to Phoenix with his wife in need of warmer weather. The restaurant is warm and inviting, making guests feel immediately at home, yet very sophisticated at the same time and serving exceptional food. Established in 1997, the restaurant’s offerings are made with plenty of fresh ingredients imported from Spain, France and Northern Italy.  

Photograph: Courtesy Yelp/ Rochelle M.

4.  Doughbird

• Camelback East

Doughbird is a new concept restaurant created by Arizona restauranteur Sam Fox. Its menu includes a variety of homemade pizzas prepared in wood-burning ovens. Located in a 5500-square foot bright and open space, the creative culinary mashup serves classic comfort foods and a thought-out drink menu. Patrons can try over a dozen pizzas adorned with creative toppings—think Brussels sprouts, charred corn and shishito peppers. Or order one (or all) of the four slow-roasted rotisserie options with unique sauces, like chipotle barbeque or jalapeño pesto. The gluten free pizza is excellent and the dessert is definitely worth the calories.

5.  Roaring Fork

Roaring Fork is known for its flavorful cuisine, cooked in wood fire and an open flame grill. Created over two decades ago by Guy and Larry Restaurants Inc., it is still owned by the duo (Guy Villavaso is from Arizona). Given its excellent happy hour deals and overall low price point, the space is always packed. With choice like the Huckleberry frozen margarita and the guava mojito, the drink menu is uniquely exciting.

Photograph: Courtesy Yelp/ Dan F.

6.  Butterfly Wonderland

Leave the Arizona desert behind when you walk into the largest indoor butterfly pavilion in the U.S. Thousands of floaty creatures from all over the world take over the conservatory, which boasts rainforest temperatures, flowing waterfalls, tropical plants and a large Koi pond. Guests may also visit the emergence gallery, home to butterflies in various states of life—many even undergoing metamorphosis. Also stop by the fresh quarter aquariums on premise, filled with exotic fish a honeybee colony.

Photograph: Courtesy Yelp/ Ann G.

7.  McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park

• Resort Corridor

About a million people visit the 30-acre McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park each year. The perfect destination for a day spent with young kids, visitors have fun aboard the vintage Allan Herschell carousel and the mini train with three steam locomotives, two diesel and one electric engine. Go see the 10,000-square-foot model railroad building where trains zip by and don’t miss the museum, which houses the Roald Amundsen Pullman car, best known for being used by every president from Herbert Hoover through Dwight Eisenhower.

Photograph: Courtesy Yelp/ Bekah S.

8.  Phoenix Zoo

• Minnesota Court

The Phoenix Zoo first opened its gates in 1962. Founded by Robert E. Maytag, the grandson of the founder of the Maytag appliance company, it’s the largest privately owned, non-profit zoo in the United States and is home to over 3,000 animals. Get close to nature with interactive exhibits like the monkey village, where you can walk into an open area filled with squirrel monkeys that scamper through bushes and trees just inches away. Ride on a camel if you dare or take a guided tour.

9.  Desert Botanical Garden

Founded in 1939, the Desert Botanical Garden boasts the world's biggest outdoor desert plant collection. A beautiful place to discover desert flora and fauna, it was created to protect, research and conserve the various organisms. Visitors can check out five thematic trails featuring towering cacti, alluring succulents and colorful wildflowers. Wildlife abounds in the garden, from the butterfly exhibit hosted yearly to hummingbirds and the occasional snake slithering by.

10.  Camelback Mountain

• Cinco Soles

Camelback Mountain is smack in the middle of Phoenix, Scottsdale and Paradise Valley, within the Camelback Mountain Echo Canyon recreation area. The mountain owes its name to its silhouette, which looks like a camel’s back when seen from a distance. Visiting hikers have two options, a challenging trail and an easier, yet longer, one. Opt for the steep Echo Canyon trail, the front side of the 2,704-feet mountain, or the Cholla trail, which winds around the area. Just don’t forget to brings lots of water with you.

11.  Roosevelt Row

Downtown Phoenix boasts an artsy district known as Roosevelt Row that is walkable and is known for its art galleries, award-winning restaurants and live music events. Hundreds of people turn out for the aptly named “First Friday” self-guided art walk on the first Friday of every month. Galleries, restaurants, bookstores and shops are all open from 6 to 11pm and artists and street performers turn out to entertain the crowds.

12.  OdySea Aquarium

Check out the relatively new OdySea Aquarium, the largest aquarium in the Southwest, home to over 30,000 animals, 50 exhibits and an aquatic presentation that involves guests sit in a theater and rotating around an enormous tank filled with sharks, sea turtles, seals and sea lions. See African penguins swim in a water tank, watch the otters get fed, walk through the “Great Barrier Reef” tunnel filled with ocean life and take the kids to touch starfish in an open pool of water.

Photograph: Courtesy CC/Flickr/ Raquel Baranow

13.  AZ/88

One of the hippest restaurants in town, AZ88 offers a patio, restaurant area and bar that attract a fashionable and trendy crowd. Known for its excellent drinks, the eatery also serves fresh food in generous portions. Make sure to order the St. Petersburg potatoes, house chips topped with Scottish smoked salmon, sour cream, radish, cream cheese, onion and cucumber.  

Photograph: Courtesy Yelp/ Ken F. </em<

14.  Heard Museum

A visit to Phoenix is not complete without a day spent learning about the city’s history at the Heard Museum. Founded in 1929, the venue hosts over 200,000 visitors a year and is dedicated to the advancement of American Indian art. There are 11 exhibit galleries that showcase Hopi katsina dolls, Navajo and Zuni jewelry, Navajo textiles and Southwestern ceramics from pre-history to the present. Go see the outdoor courtyards, which feature traditional and contemporary American Indian art.

15.  Taliesin West

• Greater Phoenix

Taliesin West, located in the foothills of the McDowell Mountains, was originally Frank Lloyd Wright’s winter home, studio and architectural campus. Wright and his students created theaters, apartments and studios with the goal to utilize and maximize the natural surroundings of the Sonoran Desert. When visiting this National Historic Landmark, guests will walk into buildings made of rock and sand. There are a few guided tours to choose from, each focusing on different aspects of the location.

16.  Western Spirit: Scottsdale’s Museum of the West

The spirit of the Wild West comes to life at Scottsdale Museum for the West. The museum honors the men and women who built 19 states of the American West with hard work and vision. It showcases historical artifacts, such as saddles, guns and poker chips, as well as paintings and sculptures. Go see the sculpture garden and notice how the heating and air conditioning systems are used to preserve the environment.

Photograph: Courtesy Yelp/ Gregory P.

17.  The Phoenix Art Museum

The Phoenix Art Museum is home to more than 18,000 works of art from all around the globe. The permanent exhibits include paintings, fashion pieces, sculptures and photographs. Make sure to visit the Thorne miniature rooms, which are tiny replicas of rooms from different time periods. The European section boasts works of art by Rodin, Delacroix, Courbet and Monet, while the American section showcases pieces by Picasso and Cocteau, to name just a few. Eat at the museum restaurant, Palette, where both the service and food are excellent. 

18.  Deseo

• Desert Ridge

Located in the luxurious Westin Kierland Resort is the Nuevo Latino restaurant Deseo. It’s where the connoisseurs go for the ceviche and caipirinhas. The menu is filled with delicious dishes that combine flavors from Mexico, Central and South America and the Caribbean. Tapas are a big draw, as are the muddled drinks, which are creative, flavorful and can be made sans alcohol as well.

Photograph: Courtesy Yelp/ Pepper T.

19.  The Horny Toad

• Desert View

The Wild West is alive and kicking at The Horny Toad restaurant, the oldest original restaurant in Cave Creek, Arizona. Owned by the same family for over 40 years, it is where diners dig into BBQ beef ribs, fried chicken and fries. Drink a sarsaparilla root beer while sitting on the covered outdoor patio or enjoy one of the many dining rooms. While the clientele is often made of tourists, plenty cowboys and bikers also permeate the premise, which, of course, makes the entire experience that much more authentic.

Photograph: Courtesy Yelp/ Gloria E.

20.  Chase Field

• Sports and fitness

Do take a tour, but don’t even think of stepping on the carefully guarded grass at Chase Field, home to the Major League Arizona Diamondbacks. The stadium is best known for its retractable roof, which allows for the games to be air conditioned during the hot summer months. Oh, and if fans aren’t cool enough, they can take a dip in the right field pool.

Getting hungry?

The 20 best restaurants in Phoenix

What makes the best restaurants in Phoenix truly great is their scope: from ethnic treasures to James Beard award-winning spots, hole-in-the-wall family joints and fancy hotel eateries, the capital of Arizona is home to a food scene that is, to put it simply, very underrated. 

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Phoenix Attractions: 25 of the Most Popular Spots to Visit

Updated: October 27, 2022

Phoenix attractions range from the beautiful outdoor Desert Botanical Garden to the incredible Musical Instrument Museum.

The city is also known for the incredible murals in and around the Roosevelt Arts District and Chase Field, which is the home to the Arizona Diamondbacks baseball team. 

Some of the other highlights on our list of the top 25 attractions to see include the family-friendly Phoenix Zoo, the incomparable Heard Museum, the awe-inspiring heights and views from both Papago Park and South Mountain, and much more.

For car buffs, you'll want to check out the Penske Racing Museum.

Read on for more details about each one including tips on what to expect from each one during your stay in the Valley of the Sun.

Disclaimer: I receive a small commission from some of the links on this page.

1. Desert Botanical Garden

The Desert Botanical Garden is one of my favorite outdoor Phoenix attractions during any season of the year.

This garden encompasses more than 140 acres of land (with more than 55 under cultivation) and includes more than 50,000 plants, many of which are rare or endangered. Along with the plants, you can often see rabbits, lizards, and many different types of birds.

It is perfect for everyone and you could easily spend a whole day here and not see everything.

It is especially wonderful to come in the evening to watch the sunset over the valley. The botanical garden includes 5 major walking paths, 2 restaurants, a library and a gift shop.

>> More about visiting this outdoor gem

2. The Heard Museum

The Heard Museum is an internationally known and respected museum focusing on everything related to Native American peoples.

The museum has been newly renovated and has distinct exhibits for each of the different tribes and cultures.

This allows you to travel through them and see the similarities and difference between the cultures.

It is quite incredible to see how some tribes, who were only miles away from each other, have such different art and belief systems.

With over 21,000 square feet, this museum is able to have both permanent exhibits, and traveling exhibits from other museums, and from artists that you would not be able to see anywhere else.

If you are looking to take a break as you walk through the Heard, they have a café, an outdoor courtyard, and museum shops. You are welcome to enter the gift shop, café, or the stores even if you do not purchase a ticket to the Heard Museum.

>> Learn more about this wonderful Phoenix gem

3. Roosevelt Row Murals

Located in the hip and fun Roosevelt Row Art District, you will find an amazing collection of murals. These murals are primarily produced by local artists.

Many focus on cultural and political statements about what is happening to this area, the city, and the world.

Something that we love about this area is that many of the murals are painted over by the artists, so you can often find something new and different whenever you go there.

The most famous area is the 1 1/2 Street murals which have a whole block full of murals from many different artists.

It makes it very easy to see a lot of them, and different styles, all in one small area. Also, something else we love is that there are so many murals around this area since they are hidden behind houses, in alleys, and behind buildings.

The nice thing is that you can still see them and take photos no matter where the murals are in this district.

In case you are hungry or thirsty, there are lots of great restaurants and bars around this area too. It's one of my favorite Phoenix Attractions.

4. Camelback Mountain

If you like hiking, then this Phoenix attraction is a perfect place to go out and see everything this beautiful desert has to offer.

There are two trails on Camelback Mountain, with Cholla being one and the other being Echo Canyon. The mountain tops out at about 2,700 feet so it is not going to take you a long time to get to the summit.

However, they are both difficult climbs, so you'll want to be prepared before you head out on them.

If you want to tackle them, they are very much worth it since the summit offers 360-degree views and can see from miles.

We suggest you bring a water bottle, some food, and a good hat since the temperatures in the appropriately named Valley of the Sun can get quite hot.

Camelback Mountain is about 20 minutes from downtown Phoenix, so it is easy to get there no matter where you are at in the city.

Note: Parking is only allowed from sunrise to sunset, so you'll want to plan accordingly.

5. Phoenix Art Museum

This is a must visit for art lovers of all types.

With over 20,000 pieces of art, from all over the world, you will be sure to find many pieces that will enthrall and enchant you.

There are 9 areas, ranging from Latin American, to Asian, to European and pretty much everything in-between. These include photography, paintings, sculptures, and other types of art.

Both first time visitors and those returning for a second or third time will love their traveling exhibitions.

Some of our favorites have included ones on Japanese bowl and ceramics, Ansel Adams' exhibit on how he made his prints, and "Sweet Land of Funk" which is based on the Funk style of art.

Trust us, there is always something new and fun! It's another of the Phoenix attractions that you do not want to miss!

6. Phoenix Zoo

As the song says, "It's all happening at the zoo" and they are right about that as this is one of the best family-friendly Phoenix attractions.

It is almost impossible to explain how much there is to do at here, so we've collected just a small glimpse of your choices.

You can check out the African area which has lions, rhinos, and tigers just to name a few. The Tropics Trail has orangutans, jaguars, elephants and more.

The Arizona Trail has local species like bobcats, parrots, javelinas (they are really ugly but fun to see!) and other creatures.

Last but not least, there is the Children's Trail which lets the little ones get up-close and personal with animals like emus, an ocelot, and my favorite, the golden lion tamarins.

We really love that kids of all ages can check out the petting zoo to really get the feel of the zoo. There are tours, events, a restaurant and a gift shop.

There is also the "Cruise the Zoo" tour where you can drive your car through the zoo to see it in a very different way. It is a fun way to see the animals while keeping nice and cool if it is too hot outside.

>>   F ind out more about the Phoenix Zoo

7. Phoenix Attractions: Papago Park

If you want to get outside, and into a bit of nature, then Papago Park is the place for you.

It is very close to downtown Phoenix and easy to get to anytime of the day. One of the things that we love is that most the trails are very easy, and they don't take a lot of effort to get up or go down them.

You can get great views all around and you'll be enthralled by the massive buttes that jut up from the ground as you hike through the park.

If you want to do something more than just hike at the park, there is an archery range, a lake where you can go fishing, the Papago Park golf course and many other activities.

You will see lots of hikers, runners, and mountain bikers here as it is such a popular place and so easily accessible for all.

This is also where you will find three other great Phoenix attractions here: Phoenix Zoo, the Hole in the Rock , and Desert Botanical Garden.

The park is open from sunrise to sunset, but you can hike the trails from 5 a.m. to 11 p.m. These hours may change depending on the season, so you'll want to check ahead.  

8. Musical Instrument Museum

Simply stated, there is no other museum like this anywhere else in the whole world.

As one of the top Phoenix attractions, it has basically every type of musical instrument from around the globe that you can imagine!

Not only do they have musical instruments, they have memorabilia from musicians too. Some of these pieces include Elvis Presley's actual military uniform, masks from different parts of Africa, full outfits from Asia, and so much more than we can even being to tell you about here!

The beauty of this museum is that are instruments from 5,000 BC and continuing up until today and they are constantly having new exhibits and shows.

There is also a special kid's room where they can play music and explore what different instruments sound like as they become musicians of the world.

There is a very cute gift shop, where all the pieces for sale are specially made by the artists and certified, to support them.

There is also a restaurant in case you are hungry and an outdoor area to eat at or just relax.

>>   Learn more about the amazing Musical Instrument Museum

9. Butterfly Wonderland: Rainforest Experience

The name seems to say it all, but there is so much more here than just butterflies.

Like the name states, you truly will experience being in the rainforest when you walk into this massive greenhouse.

The Butterfly Wonderland is home to over 70 different species of butterflies and in total there are many thousands of them flying around you!

Not only are there butterflies, but there is a Koi fishpond, a few cute chickens, and a bunch of sleepy tree frogs just hanging out.

There is a short movie explaining the life of the butterfly if you want to learn more about the butterflies after or before walking around the area. It is very educational and fun.

There is the Rainforest Reptile Exhibit, which lets you get up close and personal with these slithering beauties (don't worry they are behind glass so you are safe), a totally fun honey bee exhibit where you can see them work constantly making honey, and so much more.

If you get hungry, there is an "Edible Insect Station" where you can actually eat chocolate covered ants, scorpion lollypops, and other "delicious" things.

As for us, we tend to prefer normal food, so we tend to go the "normal" café that is located on the grounds.

>> More about visiting this Scottsdale gem

>> More things to do on the Arizona Boardwalk

10. Heritage Square

Most people think of Phoenix as being new and hip, which it is. That being stated, if you want to travel back in time, to the late 1800s, then Heritage Square is the place for you.

You can just walk around the area, but if you really want to experience the olden days, you'll want to go to the visitor center, check out the displays, and then buy tickets to the Phoenix attractions all around the square.

There are galleries to view so you can experience what it was like living in this area back in the day, tours of the Rosson House, and The Bungalow, where you can eat some snacks and buy some memorabilia.

They also have traveling exhibits and a few restaurants if you need a break after walking around and seeing the neighborhood.

Now, I've left the best for last as you'll definitely want to go into the Rosson House. This almost 3,000 square foot mansion is amazing and perfectly preserved.

Also, if you are into a bit of the supernatural, you just might be able to go to their "Seances and Spiritualists" tour depending on the day and date of your visit. WOOOOOOO!!!!! SPOOKY!!!!!

11. McCormick - Stillman Railroad Park

"CHOO CHOO AND ALL ABOARD!!!!" is what you'll be saying when you visit this fun and one of a kind place.

This is one of our favorite Phoenix attractions because it is fun not only for kids, but for kids of all ages (like us). You can learn just about everything regarding trains in this old-time train park.

After that, make sure to grab a train at Stillman Station and cruise around the park. You can also ride a carousel where you can go around and around and check out loads of displays including ones where they show how to build a model railroad.

Something that we love is that you can visit this park for free anytime you want. You will have to pay for the train ride, and the carousel, but that is only if you want to take one.

So, if you just want to hang out, go ahead and do that.

If you want a bite to eat, head over to "Hartley's General Store" and grab some ice cream, a hot dog, or something else that looks good. 

12. South Mountain

If you are looking for a little privacy in the outdoors of the Valley of the Sun, then South Mountain is the place for you!

With over 16,000 acres of land, this park is one of the largest in the whole United States of America. There are three main mountain peaks and loads of trails for walking, running, mountain biking, horseback riding, and more.

Cresting at 2,300 feet, Dobbins Peak is the highest part of the park where the public is allowed because of safety reasons (you are not allowed to climb any higher).

We love Dobbins Peak since we can walk up to it, but if we are feeling lazy, we can also drive up it on the appropriately named Summit Road.

You will get an amazing view of the whole valley when you are up here, and it is absolutely worth the time to go there especially if you want to see a magical sunset.

Hours are usually from 5 a.m. to 7 p.m. but sometimes extend out to 11 pm, so you'll want to plan accordingly and check the schedules.

13. OdySea Aquarium

There are some Phoenix attractions that just are impossible to describe and OdySea Aquarium is one of them.

This massive aquarium is unlike any that we've seen anywhere on our travels around the globe. It houses more than 10 exhibition areas, ranging from oceans and lakes all over the world, and each one is spectacular.

Some of these include the Deep Ocean exhibit where you take an escalator down UNDER the sea and walk through a glass tunnel as if you were actually there.

Another favorite is the Bizarre & Beautiful. I won't even try to explain that, but you can just imagine what might be there.

We love that they have special programs like the "The Penguin Encounter" where you can  pet a bunch of cute furry friends in their habitat.

Trust us, touching them is totally different because their feathers are so soft, and they are so happy for you to do that to them!

Another favorite is the "Shark Tour" where you get to walk around a pool full of sharks and see them up close (don't worry, you won't touch them and they won't touch you!).

As mentioned above, this is just a bit of what is here, since it is impossible to go "in-depth" on everything that the OdySea Aquarium has without running out of space on the page!

>> Learn more about what you'll experience at the aquarium here

14. Taliesin West

Taliesin West was designed by the famous architect Frank Lloyd Wright in 1937 and is an UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The house was incredibly advanced for its time and it was his winter home to escape the brutal Wisconsin winters. It was specially made to contour with Arizona's landscape and formations.

It was built with local desert rocks, with wood laid on top of that, and then covered with concrete.

The colors, the angles of the building, and the glass covered main areas are so amazing and majestic compared to almost any other buildings anywhere in Arizona..

Not only was this a home for Wright and his wife, but is has now become a teaching center, home to a cabaret studio, outdoor music pavilion, and so much more inside and outside the house that are spectacular in design and artistic elegance.

Note : You cannot buy public tickets individually. The only way to visit Taliesin West is to go on the guided tours that last 1 to 3 hours.

We suggest booking them in advance as they are very popular and sell out quickly.

15. Western Spirit: Scottsdale Museum of the West

This is one of the premiere Phoenix attractions and is entirely dedicated to all art and culture from the Western United States of America.

Not only is this a museum, but it is also an educational center so visitors can learn about the different cultures, peoples, art styles, and how the west came to be up to until today.

It houses 8 exhibit areas, a a gift shop and restaurant, and a 135-seat multimedia auditorium.

Some of the art includes paintings by Georgia O'Keeffe, Will James' Cowboy Artist and Author, pottery art created by the Hopi Native People and much more.

The museum is usually open every day of the week except Monday. It also is closed during most holidays.

16. Chase Field

This impressive baseball park will amaze you when you go for a tour. It opened in 1998, which was the first day of the Arizona Diamondbacks becoming a Major League Baseball team.

It also became the first stadium to have a retractable roof since it can get incredibly hot in Phoenix or there can be a monsoon which will flood the field in just a few minutes.

You can learn about all of this, and more like the dbTV which is one of the largest high-definition TVs in the world, the D-Backs pool in right field, and other information about this gorgeous stadium.

Chase Field is home to the MLB Arizona Diamondbacks baseball team. It is always a great experience to watch a game there since the weather is perfect underneath their retractable roof.

As well as the Arizona Diamondbacks playing their home game there, there are also other sporting events and concerts. Some of the bands that have played here include Billy Joel, Kenney Chesney, and others.

Fun fact : The massive roof takes only 4.5 minutes to open or close and costs just 2 or 3 dollars because it was built to glide perfectly.

17. Phoenix Attractions: Arizona Science Center

Located in the heart of downtown, The Arizona Science Center has almost 400 permanent exhibits that allow you to get up close and fully interact with them.

Some of these include fun ones such as Solarville, where you can learn all about solar energy.

One of our favorites is the Forces of Nature. This is where you are in a fully immersive studio where storms are all around you by screens, a moving platform beneath you, and you can hear and feel the wind.

There are also traveling exhibits and many different demonstrations and programs while you visit here.

This center is very spacious since it is over 40,000 square feet, has a massive planetarium, an IMAX theater, a gift shop and a restaurant if you get hungry or thirsty.

Every time we go, we always learn something new and are amazed at how incredible science can be and what it can do in our lives.

18. Children's Museum of Phoenix

If you have kiddies, with ages starting from a few days to 10 years old, this is a must visit for you and them.

This museum is ranked as one of the top three children's museums in the USA. They are proud of that and that they want your kids to touch everything you can here.

Their whole point is to help kids feel secure and to learn, enjoy, and experience things for the first, or depending if you've been here before, the 2nd, 3rd, 4th, or 100th time! 

Something we love about this museum is that not only do they have over 40,000 square feet for your kids to play in, they have over 300 play experiences that your kid can experience on 3 different floors.

They also have fun programs and classes that will help expand your child's mind such as yoga, music, how to become an artist, and so many more that you will never run out of things to do, or learn, no matter how many times you visit with your little ones!

Also, if you are a kid at heart, there will definitely be fun things for you to do also, so don't be afraid to experience all that the Children's Museum has to offer you and your family.

19. Pueblo Grande Museum Archeological Park

Unlike many museums that want you to stay back and not interact with the exhibits, this one is set specifically to encourage you to do just that.

It is set both indoors and outdoors since they want you to experience what life would have been back in the years of 450 AD to 1450 AD.

This museum holds 4 different areas with the first being the indoor exhibit dedicated to the Hohokam people.

There are pieces of artwork, blueprints for the massive canal systems they built, and other amazing structures like the Big House where they studied the sky using astronomy.

The other main sections of the museum are outside and allow you to walk around, and sometimes inside, places such as The Adobe Compound, The Pit Houses, the Desert Oasis, and our personal favorite, The Ball Court.

It really is amazing to see what the Hohokam people's lives would have been like and experience a bit of their culture even in today's world.

If you bring your little ones along, there is a special hands-on children's gallery called, "Dig It!" And, trust me, they will dig it. If that isn't enough, they also have changing exhibits so you can always see something new.

20. Penske Racing Museum

Drop the flag and away we go to one of the fastest Phoenix attractions!

This museum is going to get your heart pumping as you'll want to race away with one of the many gorgeous cars on exhibit here. Even though the cars totally "rev our engines," we also love that this museum is so much more than just them.

It has many of the awards and trophies that Penske racing team has won, including 17 Indianapolis 500 championships!

Some of the cars on display include a replica of that 1963 Pontiac Catalina that Roger Penske drove to win the 1963 Riverside 250.

All that speed usually tires us out, so we need to take a moment to grab a bit to eat at the Penske Racing Museum pit stop called the Turn 4 Café on the 2nd floor.

Feel free to eat or drink whatever you want as you overlook the test track and check out the sites. There is also a store if you want to take home some toys or books.

You can even buy hand-signed shirts and memorabilia from people who have driven for the Penske Racing Team!

21. Tovrea Castle at Carraro Heights

If you've never heard of Tovrea Castle, you shouldn't be surprised as many locals have no idea this incredible, and strange, structure even exists near Phoenix.

This castle was originally going to be a casino, but then became a home, and finally was bought by the Phoenix parks system. It has over 5,000 cacti, and over 100 different varieties, all around the castle and the 44-acre area surrounding it.  

Originally constructed in 1928, the castle was built in a three-story style that resembled a wedding cake (we told you it was strange) and is made of pine wood and stucco.

It had fallen into disrepair and that is why the park system took it over as they knew it was too special of a building to let die.

Now it has been fully restored and is the majestic residence it was back when it was first built.

Note: Tours are limited, and it is incredibly difficult to buy tickets. There is a lottery system and you must apply FAR in advance of your trip.

So, if you can't get tickets, you should be able to drive by loop 202 near Van Buren and 52nd Street even just to see it from the road since it is so magnificent.

22. Castles n' Coasters

Since we are on the subject of castles, Castles N' Coasters is one of our favorite Phoenix attractions whenever we want to get out in the sun and have some fun!

This is the perfect place for kids, and kids of all ages, since there is so much to see and do. Just a sample of your choices include a mini golf course ranging from 4 - 18 holes, over 150 arcade and pinball games, 20 rides and attractions, bumper cars, and loads more to experience.

Now, since we talked about the castles, we have to talk about the coasters, and this is where it really gets fun.

One of our favorites is the Desert Storm which takes you on not just one, but two loops, as you ride around it. Another is the Splashdown, which you can guess what happens to you on that ride.

If you really want to test your fear of heights, you can try the Sky Diver where you are dropped from way up in the sky and start falling instantly.

Once you get your feet back on the ground, and your legs stop shaking, you might to grab a bite to eat or a drink.

Since they have 5 food and drink bars, you are going to find a place to sit no matter where in the park you are at that time.

23. Japanese Friendship Garden of Phoenix

You might not think that you can find peace, serenity, and calm in the middle of downtown Phoenix, but this is the perfect place for that.

The city of Phoenix, and the city of Himeji in Japan, are sister cities and wanted to share a piece of Japan here to show their love for each other. The garden was built in 1996 and has only become more beautiful and enjoyable since then.

If you just want to get away for a bit, this is a perfect place for that as walking around the garden, and the lake, will give you that peace of mind on your busy trip.

There is so much to do beyond just relaxing in this beautiful garden. Some of the choices included in a stop at this relaxing garden are taking part in one of the tea ceremonies, moving slowly in a tai-chi class in the afternoon, or even an Ikebana Japanese floral arrangement class.

We love all three of these as it takes us away from the hustle and bustle of the city. There are many more, so you'll want to check the schedule and plan ahead.

You can also take guided tours if you want to learn more about this garden from a trained docent.

24. SMoCA: Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art

Known as SMoCA by locals, this museum opened in 1999 and has been flourishing ever since.

When you first see the building, you'll be amazed by the beauty and artistry of its exterior. Then when you enter, you'll be able to visit the 4 exhibit areas that include the museum's permanent collection and the traveling exhibits that are changing throughout the year.

So, no matter how many times you visit, you will see something new among the most contemporary art from around the globe.

Speaking of something new, we love that this museum is home to the always enjoyable "Knight Rise " by the famous artist, James Turrell. His work seems to be very simple, but it is the simplicity and grace which makes it so special and unique.

It is a permanent piece that allows you to see the sky through a large hole above you.

Because of the way it is designed, it almost looks like the sky is falling towards you. There are also colored lights in the walls that give you have a different perspective compared to the sky's the natural colors.

It really is something to behold and we like to just relax and spend some time sitting under it and watching the world, or sky, go by.

Another reason we love "Knight Rise" is that it is free for anyone to visit during museum hours.

25. Kid Friendly Phoenix Attractions

There are so many kid friendly Phoenix attractions that you will, and your little ones, will be hard pressed to figure out which one(s) they will want to do!

Jill and I think that The Valley is one of the best vacation spots for parents and their kids. This is because there are many museums, parks, fun places to hike and climb, and loads of other things to do and explore.

Some of our favorites include the OdySea Aquarium, Butterfly Wonderland, Castle N' Coasters, the Musical Instrument Museum which has a specific area just for kids to play music, the Phoenix Zoo, and last but not least, the Children's Museum of Phoenix.

However, these are just a sample, check out below to find out about them and so many more!

>>   Learn more about all the kid friendly attractions in Phoenix

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34 Best Things To Do In Phoenix In 2024 (By A Local)

Written By: ThePlanetD Team

United States

Updated On: February 11, 2024

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.

Table of Contents

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. We could spend all day listing  fun facts  about this unique Arizonan destination. 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, 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-con, 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 – precisely 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 really 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 really 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 snail-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 book 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 is your stereotypical southwestern experience, with spiky cacti and the odd rattlesnake to be wary of – all explorable via a network of hiking trails and mountain biking tracks. 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 most major cities and their closest ‘wild spaces’. We love how close Phoenix is to its desert areas of natural beauty, and you can see how impressive this is when planning a visit to the Phoenix Mountains Reserve. The mountain park and preserve is super convenient to visit from Phoenix city center, even if you are rushing to cram a short itinerary.

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. We’d suggest renting a car to enjoy the valley. The town is famous for its luxury golf courses, so any golf enthusiasts should note it down as an absolute must when it comes to 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 separate course. Each has its own rules and regulations, but you are guaranteed to bag a spot for at least one if you book within adequate time.

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 is stunning from these courses, 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 doubles up as the headquarters for the Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation.

The Taliesin Institutet 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 the principles of organic architecture. 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 better appreciate Frank Lloyd Wright’s impact on the architectural and design industry. It is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site and is 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 almost-roadside attractions. And 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 which we think is really worth it.

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 for something a little more exciting and an ‘event’ experience 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, a reasonably convenient distance from the city center. Try to book tickets as far as possible in advance, as the races are super popular, and quickly book out.

12. Goldfield Ghost Town

Goldfield Ghost Town is somewhere to be thrust into Wild West-style history. You are immersed in a reconstructed 1890s town full of actors, tours, and lingering heritage with a gold mine you can enter. Goldfield Ghost Town is the best spot to embrace history in Phoenix, and it is easy to stay engaged with so much action – including Old West gunfights. A history museum is onsite for anyone who wants a more traditional history sightseeing experience. Still, as a whole, it tackles history in a more engaging, radical way.

Goldfield Ghost Town is just 50 minutes from Phoenix city center by car. It is easily squeezed into a Phoenix itinerary. You’ll just need to organize a car rental. 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 chunk of 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 of the attractions we’ve covered or will cover are already in the desert region – even Phoenix itself is classed as located within the Sonoran Desert. To have a ‘real’ desert experience, you may wish to embark on a guided day trip to see the region’s highlights and get much more remote. Taking a  specific Sonoran tour  can help you understand the area much better. For instance, learning about the desert’s 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 equipment, while adults can wander the rose gardens and spot the peacocks that strut throughout the property in bold blue. There are also tons of sports facilities. The ranch park is a brilliant all-rounder if you want a fun place to visit in Phoenix. It is hard not to love, and its historical element adds a bit more excitement than your standard park experience.

15. Arizona Heritage Center

The Arizona Heritage Center is a bitesize taste of Phoenix’s and Arizona’s story. The museum covers everything about the 5 Cs and how they influenced the development of Phoenix as we now know it. The Cs include copper, citrus, cattle, climate, and cotton, and are the root of what boomed the Phoenix economy. The Heritage Center strips back all the twists and turns of the story of Phoenix and gives you a short, sweet, and simple introduction. If you want to learn about the city’s history without dreary, drawn-out exhibits, the Arizona Heritage Center is the perfect historical snapshot. Plus, it is located right next to Papago Park, so you can head there immediately for refreshments, hiking, and different attractions.

16. Arizona Diamondbacks

If you are looking for just plain fun when visiting Phoenix, locals and visitors alike love heading down to Chase Field to see the Arizona Diamondbacks. The 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, meaning if you visit in this period, there’s a chance that your visit coincides with a Diamondbacks game.

Watching any sporting game is a brilliant way to get that ‘event’ experience and also embrace an influential culture within the city you’re visiting. Phoenix and the Diamondbacks are no different. Watching a game is one of the most fun things to do in Phoenix.

17. Penske Racing Museum

Penske Racing Museum houses more than a dozen Penske team cars. For anyone passionate about car racing, this little museum is more than worth a visit. Entirely free to enter, you can get up close to actual race cars who have deservedly retired from action to spend the rest of their lives admired and well-polished. There’s also a wealth of memorabilia, including trophies and awards. The whole museum is just an homage to the racing heritage in Phoenix. And, of course, getting close to cars like Lamborghinis and Aston Martins is terrific. The vintage race cars are brightly colored and have that real wow factor, even for non-car enthusiasts.

Reaching the museum is an easy drive to North Phoenix. Allow 30 minutes to drive to the museum from Phoenix 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 really striking exterior. The Victorian home dates back to 1895 and has a dramatic gold roof with turrets, certainly standing out in the Phoenix suburbs. The house museum preserves the history and lifestyle of early colonizers in Phoenix, showcasing what life within the home would have been like for these Phoenix families. The museum runs regular tours of around 60 minutes to let visitors take a closer look at the house’s interior and provide you with more insight into Phoenix’s history.

You’ll have to book a guided tour, as independent exploration is not permitted – this is a positive, as you’ll get way more from the experience with a guide. The museum is slightly off the primary tourist radar but most definitely worth the visit.

19. Papago Park

Visiting Papago Park is an absolute top-tier addition to your must-do things to do in Phoenix. The park covers 1,500 acres in a spectacular inner-city greenspace area. You’ll find everything from Phoenix Zoo to red rock formations, scenic hiking trails, and the classic Hole in the Rock attraction. It is equally bizarre and beautiful that Papago Park is so close to the city center, and regardless of which you think it is, you should take full advantage of it.

Papago Park is free to enter and opens daily. You should carve out a time to visit, mainly because it contains so many attractions Phoenix has to offer.

20. Lake Pleasant Regional Park

The 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, and basically a haven for avoiding overheating in 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. Two swim beaches are available, which are very popular in summer amongst local residents. The park opens extremely early: 5 a.m. from May to October and 6 a.m. from November to April.

To reach Lake Pleasant, it is a 45-minute drive from central Phoenix. It is well worth the drive, though, and since Phoenix is an inland city, you’ll appreciate the promise of freshwater beaches. As a quick side note, you’ll pass the Pioneer Arizona Living History Museum on your way, so consider combining the two attractions.

21. Pueblo Grande Museum

Pueblo Grande Museum is now officially named the S’edav Va’aki Museum. It is an open-air museum dedicated to preserving the Hohokam people’s former home. The pre-Columbian site contains the remains of a village and irrigation canals, marking Phoenix’s largest preserved archaeological site. The archaeological site itself dates back over 1,500 years, and it is an incredible feat of both early humanity and archaeological preservation. It is astounding to view the site, and the history of the Hohokam people – also known as the Ancestral Sonoran Desert People – is fascinating to learn about.

S’edav Va’aki Museum has three galleries and a theatre, promising a wealth of information and historical immersion. The archaeological site is then accessed from the S’edav Va’aki Museum as an adjoining onsite attraction, accessible via a short trail. At the actual site, you can view a mixture of ruins and replicated houses to get 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, but it is far more than the treehouse-style construction you are likely imagining. The Mystery Castle has a grand total of 18 rooms and 13 fireplaces, and it is built out of stone – the ultimate castle for a father’s princess.

The princess in question, Mary Lou Gulley, eventually passed away in 2010 after decades of giving tours of her father’s magical creation and living in the castle full-time. However, the Mystery Castle Foundation continues to run 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.

It is worth noting that the castle was undergoing repairs following extensive vandalism in 2022. You can ring ahead to confirm opening times and construction status.

23. Old Town Scottsdale

Scottsdale is a city just east of Phoenix, and right in its center is the beautiful Old Town Scottsdale neighborhood. This is one of the best day trips from Phoenix and only takes 30 minutes to reach by car or 1.5 hours by public transport. It is absolutely drenched in history, and the old town is entirely pedestrian-friendly and full of museums and beautiful independent restaurants and shops. Next to chaotic inner-city Phoenix, Old Town Scottsdale is just where to go 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 just walk between them. It is worth noting that the ‘quiet pace of life’ also switches up in the evenings when the Old Town becomes a hub of nightlife.

24. Tempe Town Lake

Tempe Town Lake is serene. There’s no denying it. The massive reservoir is set in the nearby city of Tempe. It 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 kick back and relax outside the hecticness of Phoenix city center. It is especially popular during sunset and sunrise when the pink sky looks stunning against the city skyline and Mill Avenue Bridge.

Tempe Town Lake is just 20 minutes away from Phoenix by car, so it is a short journey. You can also take two buses and the rail service in just over an hour if you don’t drive or won’t be driving in Phoenix. It is an easy place to reach if you just want some time in nature after spending a while in the busy city.

25. Camelback Mountain

Camelback Mountain is one of the most scenic places near Phoenix. If you can hack an early morning start, you should make a 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 2-3 hours to complete, with Echo Canyon Trail involving more ‘rock climbing’ in its ascent and relying on handrails. At the summit, you are rewarded with 360-degree views of Phoenix and its surrounding views.

Camelback Mountain is a challenging feat and not a hike for beginners. You should feel comfortable with steep climbs and strenuous ascents over exposed rock surfaces. It is convenient to reach from Phoenix, though, taking just 20 minutes by car to reach the trailhead. If you like outdoor adventures, Camelback Mountain is 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 highly impactful museum in Phoenix. The museum shows fire engines and history dating from 1725 to 1969 – a substantial period. Knowing this firefighter history in Phoenix is essential, primarily as many firefighters are known as local heroes. It also gets you up to speed on how firefighting technology has changed rapidly over the years. And you can take advantage of fire safety training and programs. The museum runs an adult version, which includes planning and preparation, while children get more age-appropriate fire safety training.

The Hall of Flame Museum is just 20 minutes from the city center by car. It is next to Papago Park, so it is easily combined with a visit to the Desert Botanical Garden or Hole in the Wall. Who knows, maybe you’ll pick up lifesaving skills?

27. Heard Museum

Heard Museum is an art museum entirely dedicated to preserving Native American art. The museum does not just focus on one tribe’s art and heritage, instead aiming to preserve all of the tribes’ artwork and heritage in the US. The beautiful collection is massively important for the preservation of culture and history. If you want to embrace and support indigenous history and endeavors while visiting Phoenix, then the Heard Museum is a brilliant place to start. You can learn about Native American history and admire all the varied artifacts on show.

There are guided tours that you can take around the Heard Museum. After you’ve enjoyed browsing the artifacts and learned more about America’s Native American heritage, there’s a café onsite. You can sit down and grab some refreshments before heading off for your next activity. Heard Museum is a really high-quality and insightful addition to the best things to do in Phoenix.

28. Enchanted Island Amusement Park

The Enchanted Island Amusement Park is the most fun of all these things to do in Phoenix. The theme park is family-friendly to its core, offering many games and rides, including a carousel and splash pad. If you have young children accompanying you when you visit Phoenix, keep the Enchanted Island Amusement Park up your sleeve. There are also seasonal events, like Easter egg hunts, which are a sweet touch and very popular amongst children.

The park is just a 10-minute drive from Phoenix city center, or alternatively, 40 minutes by bus. It is easy to reach and provides really lighthearted, family-friendly fun. If that sounds like what you need, you can just turn up to buy entrance tickets – no online tickets required.

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 and things to do in Phoenix. The garden has a considerable 12-foot waterfall and a beautiful koi pond, and its abundant water features add to its serene atmosphere. As if that wasn’t enough, there’s also a teahouse and tea garden. You can walk through the Japanese Friendship Garden before heading for a soothing tea ritual experience.

The garden opens Tuesday to Sunday between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m., and it costs around $10 to enter. It is one of the most budget-friendly outdoor activities in Phoenix. And it is a breeze to get to, located in Downtown Phoenix. For a calming way to start your day, a walk in the Japanese Friendship Garden is a beautiful choice and one of the best things to do in Phoenix.

30. Arizona Science Center

The Arizona Science Center is a brilliant indoor attraction and thing to do in Phoenix. The entry price might seem steep at around $20 per person. However, once you see the number of exhibits you access for that price, it is clear that this is excellent value for money. You can easily spend three or four hours visiting the Arizona Science Center, and the multiple floors and categories of exhibits are really diverse. You can take in everything from a planetarium to an IMAX theater and attend demos or browse exhibits on lasers or even mummies.

The Arizona Science Center is an exciting Phoenix attraction for your itinerary; there’s no doubt that it ticks a lot of boxes when it comes to exhibit categories.

32. Musical Instrument Museum

The Musical Instrument Museum is a niche museum in Phoenix. This attraction has musical instruments from approximately 200 countries and has more than 6,800 individual instruments on show. If you love music or even just international culture, the Musical Instrument Museum is one of the best options when it comes to the world-class museums in Phoenix. It is actually frequently ranked as the top Phoenix attraction on TripAdvisor. And there are even specific instruments that you can try and play.

This museum is both engaging and interactive. The vast variety of instruments on display makes it a fascinating place to stop by, and adding a bit of music to your itinerary is a dreamy way to spice up your Phoenix trip. The Musical Instrument Museum is in North Phoenix, so you’ll catch a few buses or drive 30 minutes to reach this attraction.

31. Phoenix Bat Cave

The Phoenix Bat Cave is super cool. The natural phenomenon that this attraction gets its fame is the flock of bats that fly out en masse at dusk. People gather near a footpath and fencing to peer at the bats as they burst out. Over 5,000 Mexican free-tailed bats live under the tunnel – which is manmade rather than actually being a ‘cave’ cave. And you can enjoy the designated bat-watching area while snapping photos, just as long as you stay quiet enough to not distress them. The bats are protected, so don’t do anything to upset them unless you are happy to be met with official backlash from local authorities. Think of them as having celebrity status.

The Phoenix Bat Cave is located just outside of the city center, and it’s best to visit if you have a car. It is free to enjoy and one of the most unique things to do in Phoenix.

33. South Mountain Park and Preserve

South Mountain Park and Preserve is one of the top places to venture if you want some wild space. The park and preserve covers over 16,000 acres, and the dusty, rugged terrain is an aesthetic mix of desert meets mountainous scrubs. For cacti and mountain scenery – plus stunning views of the Phoenix skyline – you really can’t beat South Mountain Park and Preserve. Explore by going horseback riding with the Arizona Horse Company, by walking, or cycling. Either way, allow at least half a day to really get a taste of South Mountain.

For those with accessibility concerns, knowing there’s a road you can drive to reach a viewpoint directly is good. Dobbin’s Lookout is a beautiful place to drive to for sunrise or sunset, and it has expansive views over Phoenix. For easily accessible views, Dobbin’s Lookout is one of the prettiest things to do in Phoenix.

34. Desert Botanical Garden

What is not to love about a Desert Botanical Garden? This botanical garden spreads over 140 acres and has 50,000 plants on show – making it one of the best places to visit to taste the desert in inner-city Phoenix. The garden is connected by a network of beautiful little hiking trails. You can easily spend a couple of hours walking the Desert Botanical Garden’s grounds, and it is a lovely place to visit in the early morning before it gets too hot. It opens at 7 a.m. every day, so why not head down for a pre-breakfast walk and then treat yourself to food at the onsite restaurant or café?

Technically, the Desert Botanical Garden is part of Papago Park. But it is such an incredible place to visit that we had to include it as a standalone attraction. It is easily reached too, taking just 20 minutes 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. You want to ensure you get 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 and just 10 minutes away by car. Phoenix is connected directly to hundreds of global cities and is served by regular American Airlines, Delta Airlines, and Southwest Airlines flights.

If you are already in the US, consider reaching Phoenix by rail. While Phoenix is not on the Amtrak lines, it is on the Thruway Connecting Services. This means you can jump on Amtrak connections at Flagstaff or Maricopa, taking advantage of Las Vegas , San Diego, San Francisco, Chicago , and even New York routes. The options are almost endless. You can also purchase comfortable rail cabins for an extra luxury step– like a hotel on wheels.

Another option to get to Phoenix is, of course, by coach. Greyhound services are top-rated for getting to all major US cities, and Phoenix is no exception. Similarly, you can also choose to road trip to Phoenix if you have extra time. This is ideal if you want to maximize your sightseeing time. You can check out our complete guide on the ultimate Arizona road trip  here .

Where to Stay in Phoenix

Where to stay in Phoenix is a great question; many beautiful hotels and neighborhood choices exist. For your first visit to Phoenix, you should aim to stay in Downtown Phoenix or Midtown. This will provide you with the most accessible access to the main attractions in Phoenix.

Surestay Hotel By Western Phoenix Airport  is the most budget-friendly accommodation choice for a hotel that rates over 7.0 on Booking.com. It is a little further from the city center, but worth the location sacrifice if you want more comfortable budget accommodation.

Hampton Inn and Suites Phoenix Downtown  is a brilliant mid-range choice. It has everything from a fitness center to parking and is located conveniently in the heart of the downtown area.

This  luxury apartment  is the ideal luxurious base in Phoenix. You get the whole self-catered experience, with all the comforts of your own home, plus a brilliant location in Midtown Phoenix.

Where to Eat in Phoenix

You may not know it, but Arizona’s best-known food is the Apache trout. It is also superb for Mexican cuisine, especially chimichangas – a burrito-style dish. The list of dishes and drinks you should try is a serious challenge to complete, including Route 66 beer, Sonoran hot dogs, and fried bread. You should leave a huge chunk out of your itinerary just to factor in food and drink tasting.

Looking for the best places to eat in Phoenix? Check out our top recommendations.

Carolina’s Mexican Food: Tasty Mexican cuisine where you can try specials like chimichangas.

Fry Bread House : A much-loved restaurant serving dishes based on Native American fry bread.

Wrigley Mansion & Geordie’s : A mansion meets restaurant founded by William Wrigley JR.

Best Time to Visit Phoenix

The best time to visit Phoenix, Arizona, is a hot topic – no pun intended. Because of the intense heat in Phoenix, winter is the peak time to visit, with summer as the low season. This is the reverse of what most people expect peak seasons to look like. People who want to enjoy the desert, outdoor activities, or visiting places like the Wildlife World Zoo head to Phoenix from October to May. While June to September is when most people steer clear, it is ideal for those wanting to avoid the crowds and who prefer indoor (i.e., air-conditioned) attractions anyway.

We’d recommend May or September. These shoulder seasons are the closest you’ll get to a compromise and balance fewer crowds with pretty mild temperatures. It does depend on what things to do in Phoenix you are interested in.

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 have a wonderful time.

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 resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

• Allianz - Occasional Travelers.
• Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

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2 thoughts on “34 Best Things To Do In Phoenix In 2024 (By A Local)”

This guide provides an exciting overview of the best things to do in Phoenix, Arizona. Phoenix offers a diverse range of attractions for visitors to enjoy. From the stunning sunrise views at Piestewa Peak to exploring the rich political history at the Arizona Capitol Museum, there’s something for everyone.

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Welcome to Phoenix Born Radiant

For centuries, the Sonoran Desert has been a source of innovation and inspiration. It began with the Hohokam people, who created canals that fed a civilization for more than a thousand years. Today, it can be found throughout the nation’s fifth-largest city in a thriving community that elevates art, culture, cuisine and more to levels of greatness.

Now, it’s your turn.

Allow the mystique of one of the world’s lushest landscapes to lead you on a path to radiance. Push yourself to the top and take in sweeping views. Challenge your perceptions of culture by immersing yourself in something unfamiliar. Indulge in flavorful experiences that transcend borders. And discover what every innovator, explorer and dreamer has said about the Greater Phoenix experiences for centuries:

the desert made me do it.

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60 Things To Do in Phoenix, Arizona (Top Attractions by Locals!)

Explore Phoenix with our guide on 60 top attractions! From arts, outdoor adventures, to unique museums, there's endless fun for travelers in Arizona's vibrant city.

Phoenix, Arizona is one of the greatest cities in the Southwestern United States. You can find arts, culture, entertainment, and world-class dining in every neighborhood. The city encompasses a fusion of cultures with plenty of American Indian and Latinx touches.

Few cities in this part of the country are more iconic than Phoenix. Outside of the metro area, Phoenix also has fantastic places for outdoor recreation and nearby sites that are perfect for exploring the rugged beauty of Arizona.

There are plenty of iconic experiences to have in Phoenix. From catching a Suns game to dining at the Farm at South Mountain, it is impossible to be bored in this quintessential American city. Phoenix has an incredible culture and heritage that everyone should take the time to observe. From dining to viewing petroglyphs, heritage and history are plentiful in Phoenix.

Each neighborhood in historic Phoenix has something unique to offer. This list certainly isn’t exhaustive, but it should give a solid foundation for anyone looking to explore Phoenix. From sports to spas, Phoenix has something to offer everyone.

60 Top Attractions in Phoenix, Arizona

Our list is composed of nature, wildlife, and recreation spots, to name a few.  But let's start with my personal favorite, which is museums and zoos!

Museums, Exhibits, & Zoos

1. the phoenix art museum.

Credit:  Trip Advisor

📍Map It :  Phoenix Art Museum  |  Phone : +16022571880 |  Phoenix Art Museum Website

The Phoenix Art Museum is the largest of its kind in the Southwestern United States. There are a variety of galleries featuring Asian, European, and North & South American cultures.

The artwork here features modern and contemporary pieces, fashion, and photography. Since opening in  1959 , the museum has only expanded.

Today, it is not just a museum, the grounds also house a range of partner exhibits. Visitors are welcome to explore PhxArtKids Gallery and the Dorrance Sculpture Garden.

Aside from the museum’s standing galleries, the Phoenix Art Museum hosts a range of rotating galleries. Visitors can view a variety of changes and new exhibits each month. In the past, they have welcomed exhibitions such as desert photography, 1960’s fast fashion, still lifes, and Arizona landscapes.

2. The Children’s Museum of Phoenix

📍Map It :  Children’s Museum of Phoenix  |  Phone : +16022530501 |  Children’s Museum of Phoenix Website

The Children’s Museum of Phoenix is an exciting place for kids ages ten and below. It is one of Phoenix’s best family attractions. Not only does it cater to kids, but it also provides an enjoyable experience for their parents and guardians.

Kids can explore a range of hands-on fun while visiting the museum. Some top-rated activities include the Climber, Noodle Forest, and the building room at Building Big.

The museum is a place where children can learn through play. It is far more than a facility for them to build and climb. The interactive activities allow for children to engage their growing minds.

The Children’s Museum of Phoenix is also an exciting event venue. They enjoy hosting everything from kids’ parties to corporate events.

Related Read:   The Best Time to Visit Arizona

3. The Heard Museum

Credit:  Trip.com

📍Map It :  Heard Museum  |  Phone : +16022528840 |  Heard Museum Website

The Heard Museum is one of the nation's most significant American Indian artwork and culture exhibitions. It primarily showcases the American Indians native to Arizona and other Southwestern states.

The world-renowned attraction is an excellent place to support American Indian work. It is so popular that the museum even reported welcoming a total of  200,000  guests in 2021. See why it is so excellent for yourself when you visit Phoneix.

The Heard Museum features eleven different galleries showcasing a range of native artwork. Artwork aside, it is a gorgeous property with enough to do to spend an entire day. Visit the lush courtyards and the cantina for a slow lunch or cup of coffee between gallery hopping.

4. The Musical Instrument Museum

📍Map It :  Musical Instrument Museum  |  Phone : +14804786000 |  Musical Instrument Museum Website

Phoenix has plenty of unique attractions. The Musical Instrument Museum was rated the best museum in Phoenix. The museum takes visitors through various world cultures to demonstrate life through sound.

View intriguing instruments, listen to tunes from across the world, and enjoy multimedia experiences. There are plenty of galleries to keep anyone entertained. One of the best is the Experience Gallery. Here, touching the artwork is encouraged. Guests can strum a harp, play drums, and spend time making music with instruments from across the world.

The museum is also host to a range of music memorabilia. View instruments and pieces from artists and bands like Maroon 5, Carlos Santana, and more.

The Musically Instrument Museum Theater is an excellent place for live entertainment after you walk through the museum. The intimate, 300-seat audience welcomes a range of performances throughout the year.

Related Read:   15 Best Hiking Trails in Phoenix, AZ

5. Arizona’s Commemorative Air Force Wing Aviation Museum

📍Map It :  Arizona Commemorative Air Force Museum  |  Phone : +14809241940 |  Arizona Commemorative Air Force Museum Website

Journey outside of Phoenix to Mesa, Arizona for the Arizona Commemorative Airforce Wing Aviation Museum. It is the perfect attraction for aviation buffs and anyone interested in airplane or Air Force technology.

The museum features extensive displays of airplanes and aircraft technology. Some of the most exciting pieces include an operational B-17 aircraft, a B-17G, SNJ, F4 Phantom, and more.

Beyond planes, the museum has plenty of Air Force memorabilia. See historical uniforms, WWII and Vietnam War artifacts, medals, and photographs.

Although not in the city, the Arizona Commemorative Air Force Wing Aviation Museum is incredibly accessible. It is only fifteen miles from Downtown Phoenix and ten from the Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport.

6. The SEA LIFE Arizona Aquarium

Credit:  Viator

📍Map It :  SEALIFE Arizona Aquarium  |  Phone : +14805657072 |  SEA LIFE Arizona Aquarium Website

The SEA LIFE Arizona Aquarium is the perfect place to have an oceanic experience in a landlocked state like Arizona. It is immersive and fun for the whole family.

Some top exhibits in the SEA LIFE Arizona Aquarium include the Colorado River Adventure and Phoenix’s effect on the ocean. The Colorado River Adventure is a unique, hands-on experience.

Guests follow the path of the Colorado River from the Rocky Mountains to the Sea of Cortez. They can even control the flow of the interactive river exhibit.

Sometimes, it can be difficult for individuals in landlocked states to visualize their effect on sea life. The SEA LIFE Arizona Aquarium seeks to change that. Guests are encouraged to check out the exhibit on how landlocked desert states like Arizona can affect the sea, from the products they use to the vehicles they drive.

7. The Phoenix Zoo

📍Map It :  Phoenix Zoo  |  Phone : +16022863800 |  Phoenix Zoo Website

The Phoenix Zoo is an impressive showcase of animals from around the world. It also is a conservation area dedicated to preserving the life of rare animals in an environment amenable to their natural habitats.

Featuring over 3,000 animals, the Phoenix Zoo is an excellent place to spend a day. See creatures like Komono Dragons, giraffes, and tigers. The museum encourages safe, up-close animal encounters through viewing areas and overlooks.

The Phoenix Zoo is more than its animals. It also holds lush gardens, cafes, water features, and more. Families are especially encouraged to take up one of the ranger-led programs to learn about the care of animals.

Related Read:   10 Best Waterfalls Near Phoenix

8. The LEGOLAND Discovery Center

📍Map It :  LEGOLAND Discovery Center Arizona  |  Phone : +14805657072 |  LEGOLAND Discovery Center Arizona Website

The LEGOLAND Discovery Center is an interactive activity for young children and their families. The recommended age for the center is three through ten-year-old kids.

LEGOLAND is a world of creativity and play. Some of the features of the indoor recreation area include a LEGO playground, global and local landmarks constructed from LEGOs, and even a 4D cinema. It is an excellent place to spend the afternoon with LEGO-obsessed kids.

LEGOLAND is in Tempeh, Arizona, about ten miles from Downtown Phoenix.

9. Carnival of Illusion

📍Map It :  Carnival of Illusion  |  Phone : +14803597469 |  Carnival of Illusion Website

The Carnival of Illusion seeks to bring all of the joys of an old-school roadshow to life. The unique shows feature old-world magic in the heart of Phoenix and other locations across Arizona.

The Carnival of Illusion takes guests on an immersive experience through magic. With a theme of global magic, they put on a show featuring acts from across the world.

The Carnival of Illusion is the longest-running Arizona theater show in the state’s history. Get tickets and experience the magic for yourself.

10. The Arizona Science Center

📍Map It :  Arizona Science Center  |  Phone : +16027162000 |  Arizona Science Center Website

The Arizona Science Center is a world-renowned museum in the heart of picturesque Phoenix. The four-story building features a planetarium, hands-on exhibits, a 5-story “giant screen” theater, and more.

The  museum's mission  is to provide “exploration, education, and entertainment for all ages.” Exploring the science center allows guests an intimate experience in learning how the world works.

The building itself is also intriguing. Beyond the planetarium and viewing room, the museum is a maze of hallways, ramps, terraces, and exhibits. It is easy to get lost in the magnificence of it all. Spend a day exploring the museum.

Related Read:   18 BEST Water Parks in Phoenix

Nature & Wildlife

11. the desert botanical garden.

📍Map It :  Desert Botanical Garden  |  Phone : +14809411225 |  Desert Botanical Garden Website

There is no better place to showcase arid plants from worldwide deserts than in the arid climate of Phoenix, Arizona. The Desert Botanical Garden has a collection of over 50,000 desert plants.

Walk the gardens to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of desert flora. The garden has five different trails, each with a unique theme. The trails provide a chance to learn about conservation, the people of the Sonoran Desert, desert life, and wildflowers.

The gardens also host various events and seasonal exhibits. Visit throughout the year for an ever-changing experience. Take a guided or specialized tour, see a concert, or eat at one of the on-site restaurants.

12. Camelback Mountain

📍Map It :  Camelback Mountain  |  Visit Phoenix

Camelback Mountain is one of Phoenix’s most popular attractions. The hike, located twenty minutes outside of Downtown Phoenix, is one of the best in the area.

Hikers have the choice between two trails up the mountain. Both ascend for 1,420 feet before reaching the peak. Although the hike is strenuous, it is more than worth it. Hikers have panoramic views of Phoenix and the surrounding wildlife from the mountain’s peak.

Camelback Mountain is not an easy hike. Their two trails, Cholla and Echo Canyon, are rated “Extremely Difficult” on AllTrails. In some areas, you even have to rock climb. Be ready for the challenge and come with a level of experience. Each trail takes around two to three hours to complete.

13. Papago Park

📍Map It :  Papago Park  |  Visit Phoenix

Papago Park is an excellent place to go hiking, fishing, or biking. It also provides easy access to the Phoenix Zoo, Papago Golf Course, and Desert Botanical Garden.

The Hole in the Rock Trail is Papago’s most popular hike. The main attraction of the path is a large rock formation with a gaping hole in the center. Visitors are welcome to stand in the rock’s chamber. It is an excellent place for photography and panoramic views.

Another unique attraction in Papago Park is Governor Hunt’s Tomb. This burial place for Arizona’s first Governor, George W.P. Hunt, is a white pyramid atop a hill. Be respectful. To this day, this is Hunt’s final resting place.

14. Take a Petroglyph Hike

📍Map It :  Holbert Trailhead  |  AllTrails

Petroglyphs are ancient rock carvings created by Phoenix’s ancestral, American Indian tribes. There are plenty situated around Arizona. Hikers can follow various paths near Phoenix to see Petroglyphs. Some of them are over 7,000 years old.

One of the best hikes to see Petroglyphs can be found in the South Mountain Park and Preserve. Holbert Trail is the best within the park for Petroglyph sightings. It is a difficult hike , so come prepared.

Waterfall Trail is another popular place to see Petroglyphs. This trail is easier and more accessible for all skill levels compared to those in South Mountain Park and Preserve.

15. Paddle the Salt River

📍Map It :  Salt River  |  Visit Phoenix

The Salt River is an excellent place to see the desert come alive. Plenty of wildlife lives here, from wild Mustang horses to bald eagles. Take to the river and keep an eye out for animals.

Kayaking, canoeing, and stand-up paddle boarding are popular activities on the Salt River. Bring your own or rent one along the banks. 360 Adventures and REI Coop both rent boats and paddleboard gear.

There are many amazing things along the Salt River beyond the wildlife. Stunning rock formations jut out from the water. Red rocks and lush foliage also line the banks. The river shatters any misconception about the desert being a barren landscape.

16. See a Saguaro Cactus

The Saguaro Cactus is one of the most iconic plants in the American Southwest. No trip to Phoenix would be complete without witnessing the magnificent cactus up close. You don’t need to leave the city to see a Saguaro. Plenty grow in each neighborhood and city park.

Saguaros can reach over 50 feet tall and take extremely long to grow. It can take them between 150 to 200 years to reach maturity. It is illegal to damage them for this reason. Adult Saguaros are especially protected.

One of the best places to see Saguaro Cacti is in the Desert Botanical Garden (item 11 on this list). However, be on the lookout across Phoenix. You may see a Saguaro where you least expect to.

17. The Japanese Friendship Garden

📍Map It :  The Japanese Friendship Garden of Phoenix  |  Phone : +16022748700 |  The Japanese Friendship Garden of Phoenix Website

The 3.5-acre Japanese Friendship Garden is authentically laid out and close to downtown Phoenix. The grounds also host a Japanese tea house and tea garden. It is an incredibly peaceful place to sip a cup of tea and explore.

The garden is a meticulously designed setting. Over 1,500 tons of hand-arranged rocks, 50 varieties of plants, stone bridges, and intricate lanterns are present.

Water features within the garden add to the tranquility. There is a koi pond, babbling streams, and even a 12-foot waterfall. The Japanese Friendship Garden hosts year-round educational activities and events.

18. The South Mountain Park and Preserve

📍Map It :  The South Mountain Park and Preserve  |  Visit Phoenix

The 16,000 Acre South Mountain Park and Preserve is a stunning place near Phoenix to take a hike. There are over  58 miles  of trails for running, walking, biking, and even horseback riding.

Dobbins Lookout has one of the most spectacular views in the park. The 360-degree panoramic features downtown Phoenix and the surrounding nature. It is a stunning place for photography, a picnic, or simply enjoying the tranquility of the outdoors.

South Mountain also has an Environmental Education Center. Here, visitors are encouraged to learn all about the desert. Some points of interest are educational exhibits on plants, animals, conservation, and natural history.

19. The Besh-Ba-Gowah Archeological Park

📍Map It :  Besh-Ba-Gowah Park  |  Phone : +19284250320 |  The Besh-Ba-Gowah Archaeological Park Website

The Besh-Ba-Gowah Archeological Park is a stunning vista outside Phoenix in Globe, Arizona.

The Archeological Park features a range of things to do and see. Beyond stunning rockscapes, some of the structures in the park date back nearly  7,000 years  to the ancestral natives of the land.

The park encompasses the archeological site, the Salado Indians Museum, ethnobotanical gardens, and even scenes that the park reconstructed to depict life for the Salado Indians.

The ruins are one of the oldest landmarks in Arizona. Be sure to visit while on the way to Phoenix. Few places in the United States have such intact traces of ancient civilizations.

20. The Out of Africa Wildlife Park

📍Map It :  Out of Africa Wildlife Park  |  Phone : +19285672840 |  Out of Africa Wildlife Park Website

The Out of Africa Wildlife Park is an excellent place for an immersive experience with animals and nature. The Park is just 90 minutes North of Phoenix and 30 south of Sedona. It is an excellent day trip or overnight from either of these destinations.

There is plenty to look forward to in the Wildlife Park. Watch a tiger show, go zip-lining, and check out sloth encounters.

21. Ride a Hot Air Balloon

📍Map It :  Hot Air Expeditions  |  Phone : +14805026999 |  Hot Air Expeditions Website

Have you ever dreamt of riding hundreds of feet above the desert in a colorful hot air balloon? Phoenix is the perfect place to partake in this once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Hot Air Expeditions is one of many companies offering hot air balloon rides near Phoenix, Arizona. At the start of your tour, watch the balloon inflate and transform from a wilted pile of fabric into a giant plume of color.

After the inflation, your hot air balloon pilot steers over the Sonoran Desert. Witness wildlife in action from the sky and check out the gorgeous flora lining the desert floor.

Arts, Entertainment, & Nightlife

22. take a self-guided art walk along roosevelt row.

📍Map It :  First Friday Roosevelt Row

Roosevelt Row is a walkable part of town known for arts and culture. While in town, take a self-guided art walk along Roosevelt Row.

If you don’t want to go alone, join the First Friday Art Walk. On the first Friday of each month, a group of patrons take a leisurly stroll dwn Roosevelt Row.

There are plenty of galleries along Roosevelt Row. To see the artwork, all you need to do is turn a corner. There are murals and installations up and down Roosevelt Row for all to enjoy.

Local artwork is at the forefront in Downton Phoenix. The city commissions mural artists to take on otherwise drab building walls and make them unique. Roosevelt Row has a heavy concentration of these stunning displays. Walk through the district and find your favorite.

23. Watch Live Jazz at the Nash

📍Map It :  The Nash Jazz Club  |  Phone : +16027950464 |  The Nash Jazz Club Website

Phoenix was once a flourishing Jazz scene. Clubs used to line downtown, with music billowing onto the streets at all hours of the night. Today, the Nash is one of the last remaining jazz clubs in the city.

The Nash is an excellent place to watch old-school jazz bands perform. World-renowned jazz artists and bands rotate through the doors and perform for eager patrons. The Nash is an intimate setting. Low lights and a welcoming neon glow greet its visitors.

Settle in for a show at the Nash with a classic cocktail. When you’re here, you’re in for a treat.

24. See a Show at the Orpheum

📍Map It :  The Orpheum Theater Phoenix  |  Phone : +16022626225 |  Phoenix Convention Center Website

The Orpheum is a historic event venue in downtown Phoenix with a modern flare. The building underwent millions of dollars worth of renovation work in recent years.

Today, it is an opulent theater that hosts a variety of exciting shows including live musicals and old-fashioned cinema from Hollywood’s gilded age.

When you visit the Orpheum, you are there for more than a show. The venue is a spectacle in itself. With broadway performances and an audience that holds thousands, a show at the Orpheum is a uniquely Phoenix experience.

25. See one (or Many) of the Larger-Than-Life Mural Walls

The Larger-Than-Life Mural Walls are giant art pieces all over downtown Phoenix. If you take a walk through the city, your chance of seeing at least one is high.

The murals are stunning, but some are more  instagrammable  than others. The massive “Arizona” mural on Indian School Road is one of the best. It depicts life in the state through the hollowed-out letters that spell “Arizona.”

One of the places to find the biggest concentration of murals is on N. First Street in the Roosevelt Row Arts District. The 1 ½ Street Mural Project is home to a handful of murals painted by various artists.

26. Check out the Live Music Scene

📍Map It :  Yucca Tap Room  |  Phone : +14809674777 |  Yucca Tap Website

Phoenix is a popular live music and event destination. You can find some exciting venues and performances across the city at all times of the year. See everything from hard rock concerts to soothing blues performances in dive bars and concert halls.

There are plenty of unique places to go in Phoenix for live music. One of the most iconic is the Yucca Tap Room. The Yucca Tap Room has been open for nearly forty years and welcomed many performers over the decades.

Phoenix has an ever-growing crowd of young professionals moving into the city for work and culture. Some hotspots for live music they love include the Crescent Ballroom, the Valley Bar, and the Rebel Lounge.

27. The Yayoi Kusama Firefly Infinity Mirror Room

Credit:  The Guardian

📍Map It :  Phoenix Art Museum  |  Phone : +16022571880 |  Phoenix Art Museum Website

The Yayoi Kusama Firefly Infinity Mirror Room is one of the longtime installations of the Phoenix Art Museum (item 1 on this list). This room, in particular, is so unique that it needed to be a point of interest on its own.

The Infinity Mirror Room is by artist Yayoi Kasuma. This spectacular piece of art is a reflection of beauty and morbidity. Kasuma  describes  the piece as “you who are getting obliterated in a dancing swarm of fireflies.”

The art installation is wild, obscure, and gorgeous. Stand in the room and immerse yourself in the pockets of color and light among the darkness.

28. The Mystery Castle

📍Map It :  Mystery Castle  |  Mystery Castle Website

The Mystery Castle is a quirky destination near Phoenix. Visit the castle to escape the Arizona heat and spend some time walking around the rooms and quarters. It is listed on the Arizona Historic Register and even won the Pride of Phoenix Award. It is well worth the hour-long guided tour.

The castle is the product of a man willing to do anything for his child - even build a dream palace. When Bryce Gully’s daughter was young, she asked him to build her a castle. Gully took this whimsical childhood dream to the extreme and did just that.

Gully built the eighteen-room Mystery Castle for his daughter, Mary Lou, right before his death in 1945. Today, visitors can tour the intriguing grounds that he envisioned.

29. Go to a Summer Pool Party

📍Map It :  Hotel Adeline  |  Phone : +14802847700 |  Hotel Adeline Website

Arizona is sweltering in the summer. With temperatures reaching triple digits, the city needed to devise ways to improvise. Pool parties are now a mainstay in Phoenix. Don’t have a pool? Don’t worry. There are plenty across the metro area.

Various resorts and venues host pool parties with live DJs and other fun surprises every summer. From relaxation to raves, a pool party suits every interest.

Pool parties in Phoenix happen on a weekly and daily basis. One of the top rated is the Liquid Sunshine Pool Party. The Hotel Adeline hosts Liquid Sunshine. It features a live DJ, signature cocktails, a full bar, daybeds, and even bottle service.

30. Dance on Mill Avenue

📍Map It :  Mill Avenue  |  Tempe Tourism

Phoenix has plenty of exciting nightlife hotspots. The best place to go out at night is on Mill Avenue in Downtown Tempe. Mill Avenue is a vibrant hangout location for young adults. Enjoy happy hour, a meal, and go out on the town.

A heavy concentration of students from Arizona State University hang out here, making the crowd all the more lively. There are plenty of iconic bars and cubs on Mill Avenue. Mill Cue Club, Zuma, Fat Tuesday, and Rodeo Ranch are some of the best.

Sports, Recreation, & Gaming

31. catch a game at footprint center.

Credit:  Visit Phoenix

📍Map It :  Footprint Center  |  Phone : +16023792000 |  Footprint Center Website

Phoenix is a fantastic city for sports fans. Plenty of games happen year-round with local football, baseball, basketball, and soccer teams.

The best place to catch a basketball game is at the Footprint Center. The Footprint Center is the home of the famous Phoenix Suns, the Arizona Rattlers, and the Phoenix Mercury.

Phoenix opened the multi-purpose arena in 1992. It has since been named “Arena of the Year” by Pollstar, among other accolades.

32. Radford Racing School

📍Map It :  Radford Racing School  |  Phone : +14804037600 |  Radford Racing School Website

Ever dream of getting behind the wheel of a racecar? At the Radford Racking School, you have the chance. Come with a group or for individual lessons and learn to race like the world champions.

The Radford Racing Center is the largest racecar training center in North America. They have trained some of the most excellent racecar drivers of all time. You don’t have t be a pro to drive at Radford. They'll give you a day of lessons if you have a valid driver's license.

Not quite ready to drive a racecar? The Radford Racing School has a Kart track. Race your friends during this low-stakes event.

33. Tour a Sports Center

Beyond the famous Footprint Center (item 31 on this list), there are plenty of exciting sports centers in and around Phoenix. During the off-season, many offer private and group tours.

Be sure to catch a Diamond Backs or Cayotes game while you’re in town. If they’re not playing, tour the center that they call home. Stand in the heart of the stadium, witness empty stands, and visualize the field from an athlete's point of view.

34. Go Golfing

📍Map It :  Troon North Golf Club  |  Phone : +14805855300 |  Troon North Golf Club Website

There is no shortage of golf courses in and around Phoenix. In fact, there are nearly 200 courses for all skill levels. Choose between unique desert landscapes and lush, green courses. There are plenty of top-rated courses in the area.

Some of the best courses for those looking to put with a desert landscape behind them include Troon North, Boulders Golf Club, and We-Ko-Pa. The Wigwam Golf Club and the Raven Golf Club are the best traditionally landscaped courses. Wigwam even has 54 holes.

35. Bowl at Cham Pang Lanes

Credit:  AZ Central

📍Map It :  Cham Pang Lanes  |  Phone : +16029222235 |  Cham Pang Lanes Website

Bowling is a popular, leisurely sport in Phoenix. Take your friends to the lanes and enjoy a night of bowling with a twist at Cham Pang Lanes.

Cham Pang Lanes has all of the 1960s flare that comes with an old-school bowling alley and bar. It famously has plenty more to do than bowling. Indulge in chicken, champagne, old-fashioned games, and pool tables.

The atmosphere of Cham Pang Lanes is classy and nostalgic. Party underneath disco balls and go duckpin bowling.

Restaurants, Food, & Cocktails

36. play oldschool games at the cobra arcade bar.

📍Map It :  Cobra Arcade Bar  |  Phone : +16025955873 |  Cobra Arcade Bar Website

Arcade bars are retro hangouts that have been gradually gaining popularity across the nation. The Cobra Arcade Bar in Phoenix is more than a gaming destination. It is a full bar and a popular nightlife site.

Visit the Cobra Arcade Bar with a few quarters and dollar bills on hand. Play all the nostalgic games from the 20th century with a drink while here. It is a step back in time with a modern twist.

Patrons range from Phoenix’s new, young adult residents to Generation X members reminiscing on their childhood. Cobra it is growing in fame and has made a name for itself in the Phoenix bar scene.

37. Learn About the Art of the Cocktail at Bitter & Twisted Cocktail Parlour

📍Map It :  Bitter & Twisted Cocktail Parlour  |  Phone : +16023401924 |  Bitter & Twisted Cocktail Parlour Website

Bitter & Twisted Cocktail Palrour is a new-age drinkery with some of the best cocktails in the city.

It is the perfect place to go if you are still trying to figure out how you like your martini or what your favorite spirit may be. They have a range of classic and inventive drinks to suit every taste.

This cocktail bar is an unpretentious space with great beverages. Chill out in the lounge and sip to your heart's content.

38. Try Tex Mex Cuisine

📍Map It :  Analilila’s Riquezas  |  Analilila’s Riquezas Website

The midwest is the inventor of Tex Mex Cuisine. Texas may have been the first to craft this culinary genre, but Arizona claims to have perfected it. Who does it best is a contested debate.

No matter the winner of Tex Mex, it is undeniable that Phoenix has some outstanding restaurants that serve it. Find classics like tacos, margaritas, and new-age fusion foods like Mexican sushi around every block in Phoenix.

Eater  released a list of the essential Tex Mex restaurants in Phoenix in 2022. Some of their top picks include Analilia’s Riquezas, Ta’Carbon, and Testal Mexican Kitchen.

39. Visit an Independent Cafe

📍Map It :  Valley Coffee Company  |  Phone : +16027345550 |  Valley Coffee Company Website

Phoenix prides itself on being an excellent place to grab a cup of coffee. Some even call Phoenix the coffee capital of the midwest due to their skill in the barista craft.

There are plenty of fantastic locations across the city for an outstanding, hand-crafted espresso beverage or a pastry.

Valley Coffee Company is one of the best cafes in Phoenix. They are famous for “Arizona-grown” beans and delicious light bites. Patrons can grab and go or sit for a while.

Valley Coffee Company also has a full bar serving up wine and spirits. Try their espresso martini.

40. Indulge in a Rooftop Cocktail

📍Map It :  Different Pointe of View  |  Phone : +16028666350 |  Different Pointe of View Website

Rooftop bars are trendy across Phoenix. In the sweltering summer heat, there is nothing better to do than getting above the city once the sun begins to set.

Plenty of hotels and other buildings open up their rooftop by night. You can find everything from chill cocktail lounges to vibrant nightclubs.

Different Pointe of View atop the Pointe Hilton Tapatio Cliffs Resort is one of the best. This bar features sprawling views of the Greater Phoenix Area, craft cocktails, and an expansive wine list. No - it technically is not a rooftop; it is a high terrace. However, with stellar views and rooftop lounges, it deserves all of the notoriety that it receives.

The rooftop bar with some of the best views in Phoenix is From the Rooftop at the Cambria Downtown Phoenix Convention Center. The rooftop has a stunning cityscape view and phenomenal craft cocktails.

41. Chill on One of the Phoenix Restaurant Patios

📍Map It :  CIBO  |  Phone : +16024412697 |  CIBO Website

Plenty of great eateries around the city have extensive patios offering outdoor dining. Some are even dog-friendly.

One of the best restaurant patios in Phoenix is CIBO. CIBO is a chic restaurant with a stunning, tree-draped patio. It is a romantic setting that is perfect for date night.

Another great spot for eating outdoors is the Kai Restaurant at the Sheraton Grand at Wild Horse Pass. This lavish restaurant has an excellent view of the desert landscape. It is more than a restaurant - it is a dining experience. Kai Restaurant is the only Forbes Five-Star restaurant in Arizona and offers a world-class meals.

42. Go on a Food Tour

📍Map It :  Taste it Tours  |  Phone : +14802743569 |  Taste it Tours Website

Phoenix is a food lover's paradise. Take a food tour if you want to indulge in a complete culinary experience while you’re here.  Taste It Tours  offers one of the best in the city.

In Phoenix, food is far more than sampling various plates and cuisines. It is an immersive experience into world cultures, cooking, and the people who make it happen.

Taste it Tours offers food walking tours in downtown Phoenix that highlight how our food gets from farms across America to tables in the city. There are plenty of samples on the stroll. Come ready to learn about the food you’re eating and leave with a higher appreciation for dining.

43. Visit MacAlpine’s Soda Fountain

📍Map It :  MacAlpine’s Soda Fountain  |  Phone : +16022625545 |  MacAlpine’s Soda Fountain Website

Few places in the country still serve soda like MacAlpine’s Soda Fountain. The longtime Phoenix institution does it the old-fashioned way. The entire restaurant is like entering the year 1929 when the building first opened.

Expect 20th-century nostalgia from this Phoenix staple. Indulge in a classic soda or try out one of their famous floats. Most importantly, bask in the joy that comes from a place so steeped in history.

44. Try American Indian Cuisine

📍Map It :  Fry Bread House  |  Phone : +16023512345 |  Fry Bread House Website

American Indian cuisine has shifted over the centuries. Initially, it encompassed locally grown foods and wild game found in the country. Today, one of the most well-known staple foods in native cuisine is fry bread. Expand your knowledge of American Indian food by visiting an American Indian eatery in Phoenix.

One of the best is the Fry Bread House. Fry Bread house was named a James Beard winner in 2012 for being an American Classic restaurant. The restaurant’s owner is a part of the Tohono O’odham nation and is a phenomenal and inventive chef.

45. Hang out at Hanny’s

📍Map It :  Hanny’s  |  Phone : +16022522285 |  Hanny’s Website

Hanny’s is a chic 20th-century lounge and bar in downtown Phoenix. Visiting this quintessential Phoenix establishment should be on any cocktail lover’s Phoenix bucket list.

Part of the draw of Hanny’s comes from its history. This lounge was once a designer men’s clothing store. Brand names like Dior still hang from the walls, showcasing the history of the place.

46. Visit a Brewery

📍Map It :  SanTan Brewing Company  |  Phone : +14809178700 |  SanTan Brewing Company Website

Craft beer is trendy in Phoenix and the surrounding areas. It has been growing in popularity across the entire United States. Try out one (or a few) of Phoenix’s iconic breweries.

One of the best breweries in downtown Phoenix is SanTan Brewing Company. There are a handful of taprooms across the city. They even serve light bar bites.

Another excellent Phoenix brewery is Greenwood Brewing. Greenwood is a woman-owned business in the heart of the city with a fantastic range of brews.

47. Dine at the Farm at South Mountain

📍Map It :  The Farm at South Mountain  |  Phone : +16022766360 |  The Farm at South Mountain Website

In Phoenix, dining is all about quality over quantity. Phoenix restaurants choose the best local ingredients when sourcing their products for dishes. One of the best ways to truly enjoy the culinary scene of Phoenix is to eat locally and try out farm-to-table cuisine.

The quintessential farm-to-table destination in Phoenix is The Farm at South Mountain. The Farm at South Mountain’s mission is to produce sustainable, quality ingredients on site. Three different eateries are at the Farm at South Mountain; Morning Glory Cafe, The Farm Kitchen, and Quiessence. Each one is unique and offers plenty of locally grown indulgences.

Quiessence is the most high-end of the trio. It offers upscale dinner fare with fresh and bright ingredients. You can truly taste the land where the food came from with dishes featuring local produce and meats.

The intimate setting of Quiessence adds to the authenticity of the experience. Eating here is about more than the food - it is a lesson in how food should taste when done right. The ingredients are simple and unpretentious. The cloth draped settings with red brick clay features are simple yet perfectly elevate the environment.

The Farm at South Mountain’s more casual eatery, the Farm Kitchen, offers some of the best picnic food in the nation. Expect sandwiches, salads, and other light bites sourced from the rugged farmland.

While visiting the farm, stroll the gardens where your food is produced. The trails are gorgeous and filled with natural resources that make the Farm at South Mountain’s dining experience sublime.

Shopping & Spas

48. shop at a phoenix boutique.

📍Map It :  Bunky Boutique  |  Phone : +16022521323 |  Bunky Boutique Website

Phoenix is home to hundreds of unique boutiques across the city, selling everything from ceramics to clothing. Shopping local is an excellent way to support the community and get an individual, Phoenix-made item.

One of the best boutiques in Phoenix is the Bunky Boutique. Bunky Boutique sells a range of fashion unique to Phoenix. They also have handbags, jewelry, and other gifts.

Be sure to check out black-owned and native-owned businesses while you’re shopping. The Archwood Exchange and the Black Russian Label are fantastic places to start.

49. Shop at Biltmore Fashion Park

📍Map It :  Biltmore Fashion Park  |  Phone : +16029558400 |  Biltmore Fashion Park Website

Biltmore Fashion Park is an open-air lifestyle park with fine dining and designer shopping. It is also an expansive greenspace near downtown Phoenix.

Some of the most iconic stores to check out include Saks Fifth Avenue, Lululemon, and Hyde Park Jewelers. Plenty more shops are located here with something for everyone.

50. Relax at Kierland Commons

📍Map It :  Kierland Commons  |  Phone : +14803481577 |  Kierland Commons Website

Kierland Commons is a resort and spa in between Phoenix and Scottsdale. Indulge in one of their great spa treatments and stay at the resort.

Beyond world-class spa treatments, Kierland Commons has fantastic on-site shopping and dining. Some shops to look forward to include Athleta, Michael Kors, Coach, and plenty more.

Kierland Commons has plenty of exciting restaurants, bars, and business parks. There is so much to do here, you could spend an entire week in the commons without visiting nearby Phoenix or Scottsdale.

51. Shop at Arizona Center

📍Map It :  Arizona Center  |  Phone : +16022714000 |  Arizona Center Website

Arizona Center is in downtown Phoenix. It is home to fantastic shopping, dining, and open-air attractions such as parks and pathways.

The shopping here is great, but the Arizona Center is also an excellent event venue. Rent out the Grotto, a three-acre oasis of gardens, for weddings and other events.

52. Downtown Phoenix Farmers Market

📍Map It :  Downtown Phoenix Farmers Market  |  Phone : +16026256736 |  Downtown Phoenix Farmers Market Website

The farmers market is open daily in Phoenix year-round. From May through September, the hours are 7:30-11:30 am. They get pushed later into the day in October through April and are open from 8 am - 1 pm.

The local farmer's market features a range of food and items crafted and grown in the greater Phoenix area. Find an array of fresh produce, jams, pottery, and plenty more. Bring a basket and spend the morning supporting local businesses.

53. Get A Desert-Inspired Spa Treatment

📍Map It :  Joya Spa  |  Phone : +14806273020 |  Joya Spa Website

Phoenix is known for its spas. Plenty in and around the city offer unique, desert-inspired treatments using locally sourced products and outstanding masseuses.

One of the best desert-inspired spa treatments is at the Joya Spa. The signature massage at Joya features warming essential oils, the “Queen of the night” cactus flower, and Thai stretching. It is truly an indulgent experience.

Another desert-inspired spa treatment is the Sacred Prickly Pear Body Treatment at Aji Spa. This massage features prickly pear red clay used to detoxify the body and create an overall sensation of relaxation.

City Culture & Tours

54. visit downtown phoenix.

📍Map It :  Downtown Phoenix  |  Visit Phoenix

Downtown Phoenix is by far the most famous neighborhood in the city. It features a range of arts, nightlife, dining, and culture that locals and tourists love. Some of the city’s live music and the sporting scene also call downtown Phoenix home. The neighborhood truly has it all.

If you are looking to soak up the culture of Phoenix, there is no better place than downtown. Downtown Phoenix features over 200 restaurants with worldwide cuisines to try out.  Downtown is a food lover’s paradise with something to please everyone, from hip craft breweries to upscale fare.

After a meal, head up to one of downtown’s many rooftop lounges and bars (see item 40 on this list for more rooftop bar info).

55. Stroll the Warehouse District

📍Map It :  Warehouse District  |  Visit Phoenix

The industrial Warehouse District is an up-and-coming part of Phoenix. With more rugged buildings and a rustic cityscape, there is plenty to do here among the new-age scenery. The Warehouse district has a growing technology industry and attracts a lot of young professionals in this sector.

The warehouses once housing Arizona’s citrus and cotton production are now chic hangouts and apartment buildings. There are also some galleries, nightclubs, and restaurants among the establishments.

There is plenty to do in the Warehouse District from the famous First Friday Art Walk to checking out the sports and concert scene. Phoenix’s Diamondbacks play here at the Footprint Center (item 31 on this list).

56. Check Out Heritage Square

📍Map It :  Heritage Square Foundation  |  Visit Phoenix

Heritage Square is the original location of the city of Phoenix and has plenty of old-town charm. The rustic feel of the square is a testament to the 19th and 20th centuries. The famous site has many well-preserved points of interest from this period.

The Rosson House Museum is the centerpiece of Heritage Square. This restored victorian home once gave respite to some of the earliest settlers in Phoenix. The arid landscape isn’t always easy to live in, so the house indeed served as an oasis for its residents.

The Children’s Museum of Phoenix (item 2 on this list) is right across the street from Heritage Square and is an excellent place to take kids under ten.

57. Explore the Melrose District

Credit:  Wikimedia

📍Map It :  Melrose District  |  Visit Phoenix

The Melrose District is an expanse taking up one mile of Seventh Avenue in Downtown Phoenix. This micro-district is growing in popularity due to its cute antique shops, cocktail bars, and chic restaurant patios.

The Melrose District is home to one of the best glimpses into mid-century Phoenix. It is also nicknamed the “Gayborhood” of Phoenix due to its heavy concentration of LGBTQ+ residents. Plenty of pride flags fly in this district among various Gay Bars and queer-owned businesses.

Drag shows are top-rated in the Melrose District. Some popular places to see Drag Queens include the Rock, Boycott Bar, and Stacy’s.

The dining scene of Melrose is one of the best in the city, with chic boutique restaurants and fantastic outdoor eateries. Thunderbird Lounge, Restaurant Progress, and Belly are some of the best.

58. Tour the Desert By Jeep

📍Map It :  Off Road Jeep Adventures  |  Phone : +14804735015 |  Off Road Jeep Adventures Website

Touring the Desert by Jeep is a quintessential Southwestern experience. Take a day trip to Sedona and see the desert on one of their nationally renowned Pink Jeep Tours. The Pink Jeep Tours accompanies off-road adventurers along millions of years of desert history.

Off Road Jeep Adventures offer another popular Jeep tour near Phoenix. This company takes visitors through the Sonoran Desert in an open-air jeep. Riders go through landscapes ranging from the arid desert to the lush Tonto National Forest.

These experiences offer adventure-seeking individuals a tour through the desert led by expert guides. It is an excellent way to visualize the rugged beauty of Arizona. Experience the flora, fauna, and native history while trekking the desert.

59. Take a Phoenix Segway Tour

📍Map It :  Adventure Out West  |  Phone : +14803064801 |  Adventure Out West Website

Not into Jeep rides? Take a Segway through the Arizona wildlife. Adventure Out West offers visitors the chance to take this two-wheeled scooter through the desert. It is the perfect way to see the rugged ladscape in a non-strenuous way.

Mount your segway and follow expert guides through flora and fauna of the Sonoran Desert.

60. Take a Scenic Trip on the Verde Canyon Railroad

📍Map It :  Verde Canyon Railroad  |  Phone : +18002937245 |  Verde Canyon Railroad Website

The Verde Canyon Railroad is a historic rail system that picks up in Clarkdale, Arizona. Board the luxurious train in first-class cabins, open-air cars, and coach options.

So much of Arizona’s natural beauty is challenging to see. The railroad makes it accessible. Keep your eyes out the window to view a range of plants, flowers, wildlife, and rock formations in the desert.

The railroad runs from Clarksdale to Perkinsville. Travelers have the option of making it a round-trip experience.

Beyond the desert’s flora and fauna, watch for red rock canyon walls, ruins of the ancient Sinagua Native people, and gorgeous cliffsides. The train dips through canyons and tunnels. Immerse yourself in the Arizona wilderness during this safe and enjoyable ride.

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When planning your next trip, you're likely juggling a lot of decisions. Where to stay, what to pack, and, crucially, which airline to trust with your safety in the skies. If you're considering Silver Airways for your journey, you might be wondering just how safe it is. After all, flying can be nerve-wracking enough without worrying about the reliability of your chosen airline.

Is GoJet Airlines Safe? The Truth Behind Passenger Reviews and Safety Concerns

When you're planning your next trip and considering flying with GoJet Airlines, one question might pop into your mind: "Is GoJet Airlines safe?" It's a valid concern, especially in today's world where safety is paramount. Let's dive into what makes an airline safe and see how GoJet stacks up.

Is Endeavor Air Safe? Unveiling the Truth Behind Your Secure Journey

When you're planning your next trip and considering flying with Endeavor Air, it's natural to wonder about safety. After all, you want your journey to be as smooth and worry-free as possible. Safety is a top priority for any airline, but how does Endeavor Air stack up?

Is Trans States Airlines Safe? Unveiling the Truth Behind Pilot Training & Safety

When you're planning your next trip and considering flying with Trans States Airlines, it's natural to wonder about their safety record. After all, ensuring a safe journey is at the top of everyone's list. You're not alone in your curiosity, and the good news is, we've got the scoop for you.

Is Air Wisconsin Safe? Unveiling the Truth Behind Your Flight's Safety

When you're planning your next trip and considering flying with Air Wisconsin, safety is likely one of your top concerns. It's a big deal choosing an airline, especially with the myriad of options and opinions floating around.

Is Envoy Air Safe? Unveiling the Truth Behind Your Next Flight

When you're planning your next trip and considering flying with Envoy Air, it's natural to wonder about the airline's safety record. After all, your safety is paramount, and you want to ensure you're making the best choice for your travel.

Is Mesa Airlines Safe? Discover What Passengers Aren't Telling You

When you're planning your next trip and considering flying with Mesa Airlines, safety is likely at the top of your mind. It's a big world out there, and knowing you're in good hands while jetting off to your next adventure can make all the difference.

Is Compass Airlines Safe? Uncovering What Every Traveler Must Know

When you're planning your next trip and considering flying with Compass Airlines, it's natural to wonder about their safety record. After all, ensuring a safe journey is at the top of everyone's list. But diving into the world of airline safety can feel like navigating through a maze. Don't worry; we've got you covered.

Is Republic Airways Safe? Insights That Every Nervous Flyer Must Read

When you're planning your next trip and considering flying with Republic Airways, it's natural to wonder about their safety record. After all, ensuring you're in good hands while thousands of feet up in the air is pretty crucial. You're not alone in your concerns; it's a question on the minds of many travelers.

Is SkyWest Airlines Safe? Unveiling the Truth That Every Traveler Must Know

When planning your next trip, you might be wondering about the best airline options out there. Safety, no doubt, tops your list of concerns. You've probably heard of SkyWest Airlines, a major player in the regional airline sector. But the burning question remains: Is SkyWest Airlines safe?

Is Icelandair Safe? Discover Why Flyers Trust Their Journey With Us

When you're planning a trip that involves flying, safety naturally tops your list of concerns. And if Iceland's stunning landscapes are calling your name, you're probably considering Icelandair for your journey. But how safe is this airline, really?

Is Luxair Safe? Unveiling What Really Matters to Nervous Flyers

When planning your next trip, you're likely scrolling through countless options, wondering which airline will get you there safely and comfortably. Luxair, Luxembourg's flag carrier, often pops up as a top choice for European destinations. But in the sea of airlines, you might ask yourself, "Is Luxair safe?"

Is SpiceJet Safe? Uncovering the Truth Behind Passenger Reviews

When you're planning your next trip, safety is always at the top of your mind. And if you're considering flying with SpiceJet, you might be wondering just how safe it is. After all, flying can be daunting, and choosing the right airline is crucial for a worry-free journey.

Is El Al Safe? Debunking Myths & Unveiling the Truth for Nervous Flyers

When you're planning a trip, especially an international one, safety is likely at the top of your list. And if your travels are taking you to or from Israel, you've probably heard of El Al. It's Israel's national airline and has a reputation that precedes it. But what's behind the buzz? Is El Al really as safe as they say?

Is China Eastern Safe? Unveiling the Truth Behind Your Flight Fears

When you're planning a trip, especially one that spans continents, safety is likely at the top of your list. You've probably come across China Eastern Airlines in your search for flights, and it's natural to wonder about their safety record. After all, you're entrusting them with your most precious cargo - yourself and your loved ones.

Is China Southern Safe? Unveiling the Truth Behind Your Flight Concerns

When it comes to air travel, safety is always at the forefront of everyone's mind. You might be planning your next trip and wondering, "Is China Southern safe?" It's a valid question, especially when venturing far from home.

Is Malaysia Airlines Safe? Unveiling the Truth for Anxious Travelers

When you're planning your next adventure or business trip, the airline you choose is a big deal. You want comfort, good service, and most importantly, safety. Malaysia Airlines often pops up as a tempting option with its attractive routes and competitive prices. But there's that nagging question in the back of your mind: Is Malaysia Airlines safe?

Is Japan Airlines Safe? Unveiling the Truth for Anxious Flyers

When planning your next trip, safety is likely at the top of your list, especially when it comes to choosing an airline. You might be wondering, "Is Japan Airlines safe?" Well, you're in the right place to find out. Japan Airlines, known for its impeccable service, also prides itself on its safety record.

Is ANA Safe? Discover How They Ensure Your Peace of Mind in the Skies

When you're planning a trip, especially one that involves flying, safety is likely at the top of your mind. You might be wondering about All Nippon Airways, commonly known as ANA, and its safety record. Is it a reliable choice for your next journey?

Is Singapore Airlines Safe? Unveiling the Secrets Behind Their Flawless Safety Record

When you're jetting off to exotic locales or crucial business meetings, the last thing you want to worry about is your safety in the sky. That's where Singapore Airlines comes into play. Known for its impeccable service, it's natural to wonder about its safety record too.

Is Emirates Safe? Unveiling What Happy Travelers Really Think

When you're planning your next journey, safety is likely at the top of your list. You've probably heard a lot about Emirates, known for its luxurious experience, but how does it stack up in terms of safety? Let's dive into what makes an airline safe and see where Emirates lands.

Is LOT Safe? Unveiling the Truth Behind Your Flight's Safety

When you're planning a trip, the safety of the airline you choose is a top priority. You might've heard about LOT Polish Airlines and wondered, "Is LOT safe?" Well, you're not alone in asking. Safety concerns are valid, especially when it's about flying thousands of feet above the ground.

Is Aeromexico Safe? Unveiling What Every Traveler Needs to Know

When you're planning your next trip and considering flying with Aeromexico, safety might be at the top of your mind. It's natural to wonder about the safety records of airlines these days, especially with the amount of travel we all do. Aeromexico, as one of the leading carriers in Latin America, often comes under scrutiny.

Is Norwegian Safe? Discover Why Travelers Trust Its Skies

When you're planning your next adventure, safety is always at the top of your list. And if Norway's on your radar, you're probably wondering, "Is Norwegian safe?" Let's dive into what makes this Nordic country a destination worth considering from a safety perspective.

Is Allegiant Air Safe? Unveiling the Truth About Your Flight's Safety

When you're planning a trip, the safety of the airline you choose is a top priority. You've probably heard mixed reviews about budget airlines, and Allegiant Air often comes up in those conversations. It's natural to wonder, "Is Allegiant Air safe?"

Is Hawaiian Airlines Safe? Discover Why Flyers Trust This Paradise Airline

When you're planning a tropical getaway, the last thing you want to stress over is whether your flight will be a smooth sail or a turbulent ride. Enter Hawaiian Airlines, a name that's almost synonymous with the aloha spirit and island hopping. But beyond the lei greetings and in-flight POG juice, you're probably wondering, "Is Hawaiian Airlines safe?"

Is Frontier Airlines Safe? Unveiling the Truth Behind Your Flight Fears

When you're planning your next adventure or business trip, the airline you choose can make all the difference. You've probably heard about Frontier Airlines, known for its budget-friendly fares, but you might be wondering, "Is Frontier Airlines safe?" It's a valid question that deserves a closer look, especially in today's travel climate.

Is Spirit Airlines Safe? Unveiling the Truth Behind Your Flight Fears

When you're planning a trip and looking for budget-friendly options, Spirit Airlines often pops up as a tempting choice. But amidst the excitement of snagging a great deal, you might pause and wonder, "Is Spirit Airlines safe?" It's a valid question, especially when you're about to trust them with your most precious cargo—yourself!

Is JetBlue Safe? Uncovering the Truth Behind Their Safety Measures

When you're planning your next trip, the airline you choose is as crucial as your destination. You've probably heard a lot about JetBlue, known for its comfy seats and ample legroom, but how does it stack up in terms of safety? It's a question worth asking, especially in today's travel climate.

Is Alaska Airlines Safe? Discover Why Flyers Trust Their Journey With Them

When you're planning your next trip, safety is likely at the top of your list. You're not just looking for a smooth flight; you want peace of mind from takeoff to touchdown. That's where Alaska Airlines comes into play. It's a name you've probably heard tossed around when talking about reliable air travel, but how safe is it really?

Is Southwest Airlines Safe? Uncovering What Every Traveler Needs to Know

When you're planning your next trip, safety is always at the top of your mind. And if you're considering flying with Southwest Airlines, you might be wondering just how safe your journey will be. It's a valid concern, especially in today's world where travel safety has become more important than ever.

Is United Airlines Safe? Real Passengers Share Their Experiences

When you're planning your next trip, safety is probably at the top of your list, especially when it comes to choosing an airline. You've likely come across United Airlines, a major player in the aviation industry, and wondered, "Is United Airlines safe?" It's a valid question that deserves a closer look.

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Ultimate Guide: Top Places to Live Near Nashville for Every Lifestyle

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Ultimate Guide: Best Places to Live in New Mexico for Every Lifestyle

Thinking about making a move to New Mexico? You're in for a treat! With its rich culture, stunning landscapes, and sunny weather, it's no wonder you're considering it. But with so many awesome places to choose from, where should you start?

Ultimate Guide: Top Places to Live in New Hampshire for Every Lifestyle

Thinking about making a move to New Hampshire? You're in for a treat! From the stunning White Mountains to the serene lakes, there's a spot for everyone in this charming New England state. Whether you're after the hustle and bustle of city life or the peacefulness of the countryside, New Hampshire offers a unique blend of both.

Ultimate Guide: Best Places to Live in Delaware for Everyone [2024]

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Ultimate Guide: Top Places to Live in Massachusetts for Everyone

Thinking about making a move to Massachusetts? You're in for a treat. This state's got a little bit of everything, from bustling cities to quiet, quaint towns. Whether you're after top-notch schools, vibrant cultural scenes, or just some stunning nature, Massachusetts delivers.

Ultimate Guide: Best Places to Live in Minnesota for All Lifestyles

Thinking about making a move to Minnesota, or just curious about the best spots to call home in the Land of 10,000 Lakes? Well, you're in luck. Minnesota's not just about the cold and snow; it's packed with cities that boast great jobs, vibrant communities, and plenty of outdoor fun.

Ultimate Guide: Best Places to Live in Alaska for Everyone - From Retirees to Families

Thinking about making the big move to Alaska? You're in for a treat! It's not just about snow and sled dogs; Alaska's got some of the most stunning landscapes and tight-knit communities you'll find anywhere.

Ultimate Guide: Top Places to Live in West Virginia for Every Lifestyle

Thinking about calling West Virginia home? You're in for a treat. This place isn't just about stunning mountains and rivers; it's got some hidden gems where life feels just right. Whether you're after that small-town charm, vibrant city vibes, or a quiet spot surrounded by nature, West Virginia's got a spot for you.

Ultimate Guide: Best Places in Florida for Families - Live Happily Ever After

Thinking about moving your family to Florida? You're not alone! The Sunshine State is famous for its warm weather, beautiful beaches, and family-friendly communities. But with so many options, deciding where to plant your roots can be a bit overwhelming.

Ultimate Guide: Top Places in North Carolina for Retirees & More

North Carolina's got a charm that's hard to beat, especially if you're looking to enjoy your retirement to the fullest. From the cozy mountains to the sunny beaches, there's a spot for every retiree to call home.

Ultimate Guide: Best Affordable NJ Spots Near NYC for Every Lifestyle

Living close to NYC is a dream for many, but let's be real, it can get pricey. Good news, though! New Jersey offers some gems that won't break the bank and still keep you close to the Big Apple. Whether you're after the bustling streets or a quiet corner, there's a spot for you.

Ultimate Guide: Top Vermont Havens for Everyone - From Retirees to Young Families

Thinking about making a move to Vermont? You're not alone. This charming state, known for its stunning landscapes and cozy small towns, is a magnet for those seeking a quieter, more scenic life. With its mix of vibrant communities and peaceful countryside, Vermont offers the best of both worlds.

Ultimate Guide: Best Places to Live in Arkansas for Everyone (2024)

Thinking about making a move to the Natural State? You're in for a treat! Arkansas is known for its stunning natural beauty, friendly folks, and a cost of living that's hard to beat. Whether you're drawn to the hustle and bustle of city life or the peace and quiet of the countryside, Arkansas has got something for everyone.

Idaho's Top Living Spots: The Ultimate Guide for Everyone - From Retirees to Families

Thinking about moving to Idaho? You're not alone. With its stunning landscapes and friendly communities, it's no wonder more and more people are calling it home. But with so many great spots, it can be tough to decide where to plant your roots.

Ultimate Guide: Best Places to Live in Wyoming for Everyone

Thinking about making a move to Wyoming? You're in for a treat! This state's known for its wide-open spaces, stunning scenery, and a lifestyle that's both laid-back and adventurous. Whether you're drawn by the call of the wild or the promise of a peaceful, community-focused life, Wyoming's got a spot for you.

Ultimate Guide: Top Spots in South Carolina for Young Adults - Live, Work & Play

South Carolina's charm isn't just in its sweet tea and beaches. For young adults looking for a fresh start or a new scene, it's got some hidden gems that might just be your next home sweet home. From bustling cities to cozy coastal towns, there's a spot for every vibe and ambition.

Ultimate Guide: Best Places to Live in Washington State for Everyone

Thinking about making a move to the Evergreen State? You're in for a treat! Washington's got a bit of everything, from bustling city life to quiet, cozy towns. Whether you're after the techy vibes of Seattle or the serene landscapes of the Olympic Peninsula, there's a spot just for you.

Ultimate Guide: Top Places to Live in Montana for Everyone – From Retirees to Families

Thinking about calling Montana home? You're not alone. With its breathtaking landscapes and wide-open spaces, it's a place that calls to the heart of adventurers and peace-seekers alike. But with so many amazing spots, picking the best place to plant roots can feel overwhelming.

Ultimate Guide: Best Places to Live in Virginia for Every Lifestyle

Thinking about making a move to Virginia? You're in for a treat! This state's got everything from bustling cities to quiet, cozy towns. Whether you're after top-notch schools, job opportunities, or just a beautiful place to call home, Virginia's got you covered.

Ultimate Guide: Top Places to Live in North Carolina for Happiness, Weather & More

Thinking about making a move to North Carolina? You're in for a treat! From the bustling streets of Charlotte to the serene beaches of the Outer Banks, North Carolina's got a little something for everyone. Whether you're after the hustle and bustle of city life or the quiet charm of small-town living, you'll find your perfect spot here.

Ultimate Guide: The Best Places to Live in Georgia for Everyone—from Retirees to Families

Thinking about making a move to Georgia? You're not alone. With its warm climate, rich culture, and booming job market, it's no wonder people are flocking to the Peach State. But with so many great places to choose from, where do you even start?

Ultimate Guide: Best Places to Live in Florida for Every Lifestyle

Thinking about moving to Florida? You're not alone! The Sunshine State is a magnet for folks seeking sunshine, beaches, and that laid-back lifestyle. But with so many awesome spots, picking the best place to plant your roots can feel overwhelming.

Ultimate Guide: Best Places to Live in Indianapolis for Everyone

Thinking about moving to Indianapolis? Great choice! Indy's got a lot to offer, from vibrant neighborhoods to bustling city life. But with so many spots to choose from, finding the perfect place to call home can feel like looking for a needle in a haystack.

Ultimate Guide: Best Places to Live in Orlando for Families & More

Orlando's not just about theme parks and tourist spots; it's a fantastic place to plant roots, especially if you've got a family in tow. With its sunny weather, great schools, and endless activities, it's no wonder families flock here. But with so many neighborhoods, choosing where to live can feel like finding a needle in a haystack.

Ultimate Guide: Top Places in Oregon for Young Adults - Live, Play, Thrive

Oregon's got a vibe that's hard to beat, especially if you're a young adult looking for the perfect spot to plant your roots. With its mix of bustling cities, laid-back towns, and everything in between, there's a place for every taste and lifestyle.

Ultimate Guide: Top Places to Live in Columbus Ohio for Every Lifestyle

Looking for the perfect spot to call home in Columbus, Ohio? You're in luck! Columbus is a city brimming with charm, diverse communities, and endless opportunities. Whether you're all about the nightlife, a fan of quiet suburbs, or somewhere in between, there's a place just for you.

Ultimate Guide: Top Affordable Places in North Carolina for Everyone

Thinking about moving to North Carolina but worried about the cost? You're in luck! North Carolina's got some hidden gems where you can enjoy the good life without breaking the bank. From cozy mountain towns to vibrant cities, there's a spot for everyone.

Ultimate Guide: Top East Coast Havens for Everyone - From Retirees to Partygoers

Thinking about making a move to the East Coast? You're in for a treat! From bustling cities to quiet seaside towns, there's a spot for everyone. Whether you're dreaming of fresh seafood by the ocean or a fast-paced city vibe, we've got you covered.

Ultimate Guide: Top Places to Live in Brooklyn for Every Demographic

Brooklyn's got a vibe like nowhere else. It's where the cool kids hang and the artists create. But with so many neighborhoods, picking where to call home can feel like finding a needle in a haystack.

Ultimate Guide: Best Places to Live in San Antonio for All Lifestyles

San Antonio's got a vibe that's hard to beat, with its rich history, vibrant culture, and killer food scene. If you're thinking about making the move or just curious, you're in the right spot. Finding the perfect neighborhood in this sprawling city can be a bit like searching for a needle in a haystack—but a whole lot more fun.

Ultimate Guide: Best Places to Live in Kentucky for Everyone

Thinking about calling Kentucky home? You're onto something special. Known for its rolling hills, horse farms, and friendly communities, the Bluegrass State offers a unique blend of natural beauty and welcoming neighborhoods.

Ultimate Guide: Top Places to Live in Maryland for Everyone's Wish List

Thinking about moving to Maryland? You're in for a treat! This state's got a mix of everything - from bustling city vibes in Baltimore to the laid-back, scenic beauty of its coastal towns.

Ultimate Guide: Best Places to Live in Portland for Every Lifestyle

Thinking about making Portland your new home? You're in for a treat! This city's got a vibe like no other, with its quirky culture, amazing food, and stunning nature spots. But with so many cool neighborhoods, picking the perfect spot can be a bit of a head-scratcher.

Ultimate Guide: Top Austin Neighborhoods for Every Lifestyle & Budget

Thinking about making a move to Austin? You're not alone. This vibrant city has been pulling folks in with its unique charm, incredible music scene, and mouth-watering BBQ. But with so many cool neighborhoods, picking the right spot can feel like finding a needle in a haystack.

Ultimate Guide: Best Places to Live on East Coast for Everyone – From Retirees to Families

Dreaming about moving to the East Coast? You're not alone. With its charming towns, bustling cities, and stunning beaches, the East Coast offers a little something for everyone. Whether you're after the vibrant city life or a quiet seaside retreat, you'll find your perfect spot here.

Ultimate Guide: Top Places to Live in Washington DC for Every Lifestyle

So, you're thinking about moving to Washington, DC? Great choice! The city's not just about politics and monuments. It's got neighborhoods that'll make you wanna stay forever. From trendy spots buzzing with cafes and galleries to quiet, leafy streets perfect for Sunday strolls, DC's got a bit of everything.

Ultimate Guide: Best Affordable Places to Live in North Carolina for Every Lifestyle

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Ultimate Guide: Top Family-Friendly California Locales for Every Lifestyle

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Ultimate Guide: Top Places to Live in the Midwest for Every Lifestyle

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Ultimate Guide: Best Places to Live in Georgia for Every Lifestyle

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5 Awesome Adventures to Have in Phoenix Right Now

By horseback, Jet Ski, or hot air balloon.

For a two-hour core workout, let Fort McDowell Adventures guide you on horseback across the Verde River as you behold the Four Peaks and the Superstition Mountains.

2. Go (Way) Up

Because if you’re going to ascend a couple thousand feet anywhere, it’s tough to beat sweeping views of the cactus-studded Sonoran Desert and Phoenix Mountains. Book your trip with Rainbow Ryders .

3. Conquer Camelback Mountain

Wake up early and head for Cholla Trail (narrow, scenic) or Echo Canyon (steeper, shorter). Either path will reward you with a 360 degree panorama—and a workout .

4. Hit Downtown

Book the Kimpton Hotel Palomar , where you can settle in with a cocktail from the roof-top Eden Bar and then walk two blocks and order a beef Wellington for two at Wren & Wolf .

5. Find Water

Lake Pleasant Regional Park and its nearly 10,000-acre reservoir sit 45 minutes from downtown. Fish, scuba, Jet Ski, or just soak it all in at one of the lake’s floating restaurants: Scorpion Bay Grill and Dillon’s Bayou .

This article originally appears in the March/April 2024 issue of Men's Health.

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7 Small Towns To Retire Near Phoenix, Arizona

• Rio Verde is a peaceful haven for active retirees who love golf and nature, with a 55+ community and world-class golf courses.
• Wittmann offers a tranquil atmosphere, surrounded by natural beauty and outdoor activities, perfect for retirees seeking a laid-back lifestyle.
• Carefree, a suburb of Phoenix, is a small town with a vibrant community, beautiful desert landscape, and plenty of activities for all retirees.

Hearing the word American Southwest automatically takes travelers to Arizona, where they can experience the true Wild West, particularly in Wickenburg , which is only an hour away from the state capital. While Phoenix offers the best of everything, many retirees would love to live in a small town, where life is laid-back, and the outdoor activities are perfect for the elderly.

Fortunately, there are charming small towns near Phoenix that retirees can consider their permanent home and are less than an hour away from the state capital. These small towns have fewer than 8,000 residents and give retirees easy access to Phoenix. Here are some of the best seven towns to retire near Phoenix, Arizona.

10 Small Arizona Towns Perfect For Introverts

Distance from phoenix: 42.8 miles (51 minutes).

Offering a suburban rural mixed living, Rio Verde is one of the best small towns near Phoenix to retire in, especially because of its low crime rate, mild climate, and plenty of nature to commune with. The ultimate thing about it? It's a community for the elderly of at least 55+ and those who are under 19 years old are not allowed to be a permanent resident in Rio Verde!

For retirees who are into golf, Rio Verde is a fortress of golf, especially with its Rio Verde Country Club , which offers two world-class parkland-style golf courses.

• 2020 Decennial Population: 2,210
• Cost of Living Index: 113%
• Crime Rate Index: 13.8%

Distance from Phoenix: 46.7 miles (45 minutes)

Arizona is probably the best budget vacation destination for nature lovers , and Wittmann, apart from being a small-town charm with a laid-back atmosphere, is a great example of this; its location is surrounded by natural spaces and the town enjoys a tranquil location.

For those hoping to spend their golden years in a town like Wittman, this is also one of the many great small towns to retire in near Phoenix because of its strong housing market and quality healthcare.

Originally named Nadaburg , ( Nada , Spanish term for "nothing" and Burg, German term for "castle"), the town is also popular for its outdoor activities, such as off-roading, hiking, and sightseeing, because of its location right in the heart of Arizona's scenic desert landscape. Wittmann is also a short drive to beautiful tourist attractions, including Lake Pleasant Regional Park and Wildlife World Zoo, Aquarium & Safari Park .

• 2020 Decennial Population: 684
• Crime Rate Index: 20.8%

Distance from Phoenix: 35.5 miles (41 minutes)

Living in Carefree is as carefree as retirees would love to be. All types of retirees—active or not—will have their time of life in this small town of less than 4,000 residents. It's a suburb of Scottsdale and Phoenix, framed against the gorgeous landscape of the Sonoran Desert.

Arizona is filled with off-the-grid towns perfect for nature lovers , and Carefree doesn't disappoint in that category; retirees and visitors alike will love the life of flora and fauna at the Carefree Desert Gardens , the crowning jewel of the town, which is free to the public.

For retirees who love to just stroll around and shop, Carefree hosts the Friday Farmer's Market at the Sanderson Lincoln Pavilion. Dining, shopping, arts & crafts, and festivals are also vibrant in Carefree, including the Thunderbirds Carefree Spring Fine Art & Wine Festival .

• 2020 Decennial Population: 3,690
• Crime Rate Index: 25.7%

Thunderbirds Carefree Spring Fine Art & Wine Festival Admission Fees

The two-day Thunderbirds Carefree Spring Fine Art & Wine Festival happens annually in March at the Carefree Town Center.

This Might Be The Most Affordable Place To Live In Arizona

Distance from phoenix: 33.5 miles (38 minutes).

One of the most picturesque small towns in Arizona , Cave Creek is in the heart of the Sonoran Desert on the foothills of the Black Mountains with lots of outdoor activities, perfect for active retirees. With less than 5,000 residents, this small-town charm is popular for its spectacular horseback riding activity within the gorgeous Sonoran Desert that attracts travelers from around the world.

Cave Creek is one of the small Arizona towns perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and any retiree will love its gorgeous natural world and quality healthcare for its residents.

• 2020 Decennial Population: 4,892
• Crime Rate Index: 26.5%

Litchfield Park

Distance from phoenix: 20 miles (23 minutes).

Twenty miles west of Phoenix sits Litchfield Park , a historic town popular for its tourist attractions, including the Wildlife World Zoo, Aquarium & Safari Park , and its beautiful city parks that are hosts to many different events and festivals.

Offering incredible views of the Sonoran Desert, Litchfield Park is one of the best small towns to retire to near Phoenix because of its relaxed living, warm climate, fast job growth, and a high median value and strong appreciation rate in the housing market.

• 2020 Decennial Population: 6,847
• Crime Rate Index: 27.7%

Wildlife World Zoo, Aquarium & Safari Park Hours, Tickets, & Rental

Groups of 10 or more, military, AAA, and senior discounts are also offered at the Wildlife World Zoo, Aquarium & Safari Park. Those who pay via debit or credit cards will be charged a 4% fee.

Distance from Phoenix: 18.4 miles (30 minutes)

Tucked away in the heart of the Northwest Valley, Youngtown , despite its name, is the oldest planned retirement haven in the United States that restricted 16-year-olds from living in town, until it was repealed in 1999. With only a little more than 7,000 residents, Youngtown has a small-town vibe with a low crime rate and a growing and stable housing market .

Retirees will love Youngtown's laid-back atmosphere and its beautiful parks, where they can celebrate special occasions, have a picnic, barbecues, or simply stroll around. Youngtown is also home to senior communities, including Lifestream Senior Living and Ventura Winds Retirement Home —two of the top employers in town.

• 2020 Decennial Population: 7,056
• Crime Rate Index: 17.9%

7 Arizona Road Trips That All End At The Grand Canyon

Distance from phoenix: 12.5 miles (16 minutes).

A crowning jewel in the West Valley, Tolleson is one of the many lovely towns to retire near Phoenix because of its quality healthcare, fast-growing economy, and spectacular tourism. Located just south of Interstate 10 and other major highways, Tolleson's relaxed vibe and desert beauty are its fortress as a perfect place to retire.

The town is also near, Estrella Mountain Regional Park , which is is one of the many amazing stops on plenty of scenic drives near Phoenix through the beauty of the Sonoran Desert. With more than 300 days of sunshine each year, Tolleson is a perfect place to retire for any retirees seeking a permanent home with a warm climate.

• 2020 Decennial Population: 7,216
• Crime Rate Index: 37.7%

Estrella Mountain Regional Park Fees & Hours