phoenix travel & tour

THE 10 BEST Phoenix Tours & Excursions

Phoenix tours.

• Cultural Tours
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• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
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• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Morning Hot Air Balloon Flight Over Phoenix

2. Sunrise Hot Air Balloon Ride in Phoenix with Breakfast

3. Guided Arizona Desert Tour by UTV

4. Grand Canyon with Sedona and Oak Creek Canyon Van Tour

5. Guided Arizona Desert Tour by ATV

6. 1.5 Hour Stretch Limo Golf Cart Tour, Ultimate Old Town Exploration

7. Discover Phoenix! City Tour

8. Phoenix History, Mystery and Ghost Hunting Tour

9. Small Group or Private Sedona and Native American Ruins Day Tour

10. Apache Trail and Dolly Steamboat Van Tour

11. 3 Cities & Nature Tour. Shop, Art, History, Food. Scottsdale, Phoenix, & Tempe.

12. Downtown Phoenix Food Tour

13. Small-Group or Private Grand Canyon with Sedona Tour from Phoenix

14. 2.5 Hour FAT Tire E-Bike Tour – Scottsdale Greenbelt Adventure

15. Phoenix Murders and Mysteries Ghost Tour

16. Self-Guided Centipede Desert UTV Rental

17. Stunning Sunrise or Sunset Guided Hiking Adventure in the Sonoran Desert

18. Sedona Day Trip from Phoenix

19. 3-Hour ATV and Shooting Combo

20. Sunrise Sonoran Desert Hot Air Balloon Ride from Phoenix

21. 2 Hour Scottsdale Segway Tours - Ultimate Old Town Exploration

22. 3 Hour Guided TomCar ATV Tour in Sonoran Desert

23. Outdoor Escape Room in Phoenix - Downtown

24. Small Group Antelope Canyon Day Trip from Phoenix

25. Pedal Bar Crawl of Old Town Scottsdale

26. Camelback E-Bike & Hike Tour - 2.5 Hours

27. Epic Camelback Mountain Guided Hiking Adventure in Phoenix, Arizona

28. Small Group Apache Trail Day Tour with Dolly Steamboat from Phoenix

29. Custom Grand Canyon Day Trip

30. Self-Guided Centipede Desert ATV Rental

What travelers are saying.

• Stacy H 1 contribution 0 5.0 of 5 bubbles Sam was great! Sam was great! Patient, funny, knowledgeable, great energy. Highly recommend! Great trails. Good equipment. I'm not a novice and a as a little worried we'd be going to slow and dragging it on but it was perfect for any skill level. Read more Review of: Centipede Tour - Guided Arizona Desert Tour by ATV Written April 28, 2024 This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
• Jessica S 1 contribution 0 5.0 of 5 bubbles Tour of views Very informative of old town. Beautiful view and tons of great photo opportunities. Tour guides gives area suggestions to check out and places to check out. Read more Review of: 1.5 Hour Stretch Limo Golf Cart Tour, Ultimate Old Town Exploration Written April 29, 2024 This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.

• Morning Hot Air Balloon Flight Over Phoenix
• Grand Canyon with Sedona and Oak Creek Canyon Van Tour
• 1.5 Hour Stretch Limo Golf Cart Tour, Ultimate Old Town Exploration
• Centipede Tour - Guided Arizona Desert Tour by UTV
• Centipede Tour - Guided Arizona Desert Tour by ATV
• Adobe Mountain Desert Railroad Park
• Arizona Outdoor Fun
• Mad Desert Trekking
• Western Destinations Canyon Creek Ranch - Tours
• Arizona "ING" Tours
• Arizona Scenic Tours - Day Tours
• Westwind Air Service
• 2 Fly Us Hot Air Balloon Rides - Private Flights
• Equinox Hot Air Balloon Rides
• Spirit of Arizona Tours
• Vaughan's Southwest Tours - Day Tours
• Firebird Balloons
• Stoneman Climbing Company
• Mild to Wild Rafting and Jeep Tours
• Desert Wolf Tours

Phoenix   Travel Guide

Courtesy of tonda | Getty Images

Why Go To Phoenix

Referred to as "LA without the Pacific," Phoenix combines high-end shopping, a flourishing restaurant scene and resort life in the Sonoran Desert. Instead of golden beaches and palm trees, you'll encounter vibrant red mountains and cacti-lined boulevards. Phoenix's setting is so attractive that the one-time ranch town has morphed into the fifth most populated city in the U.S. And with the development of palatial resorts , hundreds of golf courses , a burgeoning bar scene and attractive room rates, you'll see why this city has become a popular refuge for snowbirds, families and 20-somethings alike.

While world-renowned spas and shopping centers draw elite clientele with money to spare, "The Valley of the Sun," also lures adventurous travelers with its unique desert landscape and numerous hiking trails. Spring, winter and fall visitors spend most of their time outdoors, soaking in the rays on the links, on the mountains, on the tennis courts or in the pools. The diversity of the suburbs (Scottsdale, Mesa, Tempe and Glendale to name a few) means there's an assortment of hotels and activities for every budget. What's more, Phoenix is a convenient jumping-off point for some of the best Arizona tours , including exciting all-terrain vehicle rides through the desert. Phoenix may not have the glitz and the seaside boardwalk of Los Angeles , but you'll find yourself hardly wanting those elements when you relax poolside before your afternoon hike or massage.

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• # 19 in Best Places to Visit in Arizona

Best of Phoenix

Best hotels in phoenix.

• # 1 in The Canyon Suites at The Phoenician, a Luxury Collection Resort, Scottsdale
• # 2 in Four Seasons Resort Scottsdale at Troon North
• # 3 in Fairmont Scottsdale Princess

Best Things to Do in Phoenix

• # 1 in Desert Botanical Garden
• # 2 in Camelback Mountain
• # 3 in Musical Instrument Museum

Popular Tours

Guided Arizona Desert Tour by ATV

(1125 reviews)

from $ 107.74

Small-Group or Private Grand Canyon with Sedona Tour from Phoenix

(1933 reviews)

from $ 235.00

Morning Hot Air Balloon Flight Over Phoenix

(1714 reviews)

from $ 236.52

Phoenix Travel Tips

Best months to visit.

The best time to visit Phoenix is November through April, when you'll see blue skies with highs in the upper 60s, 70s and low 80s. But whenever you visit, keep in mind this desert city's seasons are hard to determine. The leaves don't change colors in fall, nor will flowers blossom in the spring. You will notice differences in temperature, however, particularly in the toasty summers when highs average above 100 degrees Fahrenheit. If you can bear this dry, formidable heat, you can take find great deals at luxury resorts .

Weather in Phoenix

Data sourced from the National Climatic Data Center

What You Need to Know

Day trips are key Phoenix is in the center of Arizona, which makes it a great home base for day trips to popular places like Sedona and the Grand Canyon . Signing up for one of the best Arizona tours is a great way to enjoy a day trip with the expert guidance of a local.

Cars do burn You'll be racing to your car to turn on the AC in the scorching summer. But keep in mind, if it's 110 degrees outside, your door handle is at a temperature well above that.

Be prepared to hike If you're planning to conquer Camelback Mountain , come prepared with sturdy hiking shoes, lots of water and plenty of sunscreen. The City of Phoenix offers helpful reminders on its website for those thinking of tackling this strenuous hike.

How to Save Money in Phoenix

Consider summer vacations The climate is difficult for most to handle, but you'll be amazed at the savings on hotel rooms , restaurants and even rental cars. Do as the Phoenicians do: Go outside only in the mornings and evenings, and choose a car with quality air conditioning.

Consider bringing your own supplies Resort life is already expensive, but petty rental fees for tennis rackets and golf clubs can bust your budget. Bring your own equipment. Bringing your own car isn't a bad idea either.

Consider where you shop Phoenix has some amazing shopping venues – indoors and outdoors. Various parts of town host different shops with different prices. Popular Scottsdale will be on the high-end.

What to Eat

With hundreds of restaurants serving cuisine from all over the world, Phoenix is a great destination for foodies. However, the city is best known for its Mexican eateries; sitting only a few hours north of the border, it's difficult to resist the enticing aromas that pour out of Phoenix's popular Mexican restaurants. Whether your taste buds are craving traditional breakfast burritos or Mexican sushi, you'll find it in the Valley of the Sun. If you're looking for an elevated take on traditional Mexican, you can't go wrong at  Barrio Cafe Gran Reserva , according to recent diners. For a more casual meal, try Joyride Taco House  or Tee Pee Mexican Food  – a family-owned eatery that's hosted visiting celebrities and politicians alike. Phoenix's numerous cowboy-style steakhouses are also not to be missed. These family-friendly eateries offer generous portions along with live entertainment in a Wild West atmosphere.

If you're looking for fine dining, you're also in luck – the area hosts many renowned restaurants that serve a variety of cuisines, including Tratto (Italian), FnB (farm-to-table) and  Kai (Native American), among many, many others. More than a few Phoenix-area chefs have earned James Beard awards. Some such chefs include Beau MacMillan, executive chef of elements  restaurant in Scottsdale; Chris Bianco, owner of Pizzeria Bianco ; and Vincent Guerithault, head chef and owner of Vincent on Camelback . 

Although you can find great dining throughout the city, many top-notch restaurants are located along the Camelback Corridor in Scottsdale. No matter which restaurant you choose, it's best to make reservations in advance – especially during the winter months – to avoid long waits. 

Phoenix is a relatively new and constantly expanding metropolis. Although crime rates are not excessively high, you should still take extra precautions. Make sure to always lock your car doors, and keep valuables hidden from plain sight. 

There's a reason why it's called the Valley of the Sun: The Phoenix Metropolitan Area sees more than 300 days of sunshine every year, and its desert climate means the air is hot and dry. Visitors unaccustomed to this type of weather often suffer from heat stroke and dehydration, the symptoms of which include nausea, fatigue, headache and dizziness. To avoid heat stroke, drink plenty of water and wear a hat to shade your face. If you're hiking or biking in the mountains, take regular breaks. You should also apply sunscreen on a regular basis to avoid getting burned. Always carry sunglasses, especially when you are driving around sunrise or sunset: Wearing them will help improve your visibility and prevent an accident.

The desert is home to some creepy-crawlies for whom you should keep an eye out, particularly rattlesnakes and scorpions. It's unlikely you'll encounter these creatures within the city — or that you'll have problems if you do — but it's still wise to be extra cautious when out on the trails. If you're bitten or stung, seek medical attention immediately.

Getting Around Phoenix

The best way to get around Phoenix is by car, especially as this ever-expanding metropolis rests neatly on a grid. A car is a necessity to reach the spread-out attractions , your hotel and restaurants – not to mention the Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX). A car will also come in handy if you're planning to take daytrips to nearby hot spots, such as Sedona . Plus, there are plenty of scenic drives within a short distance of downtown, such as Doobins Lookout and the Piestewa Freeway.

Walking outside for more than a few blocks is an easy way to be identified as a tourist. Smaller public shuttles, such as the Scottsdale Trolley and Downtown Area Shuttle, however, are useful to traverse those specific areas.

Phoenix's skyline is punctuated by mountains, golf courses and cacti.

Explore More of Phoenix

Things To Do

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# 1 in  Best Party Cities in the U.S.

# 2 in  Best Day Trips from Phoenix

# 3 in  Best Day Trips from Phoenix

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The Phoenix metropolitan area, known as the Valley of the Sun, is home to more than 4.2 million people and includes the cities of Scottsdale, Glendale, Tempe, and Mesa. The area's explosive growth over the last decade has made it one the largest metropolitan areas in the country.

Sunny days and comfortable temperatures are the rule November through April, making this time the most enjoyable and popular time of year to visit. Vacation resorts are plentiful throughout the valley and the most popular outdoor activities are golfing, hiking, hot air balloons and scenic day trips in to the nearby desert or to one of the nearby mountain towns.

Downtown Scottsdale has always been a entertainment and shopping center with a focus on art and things trendy, but now downtown Phoenix and the Biltmore area continue to offer more and more top rate restaurants, theaters, museums, shopping and sports venues. The well established suburb of Glendale has been re-energized with the new Arizona Cardinal's football stadium and the Phoenix Coyote's hockey arena. All the major professional sports leagues have Phoenix teams and in March every year Major League Baseball's growing Cactus League spring training is a huge draw for visitors and locals alike.

Lake Pleasant north of town along with the Salt River and Verde River reservoir system east and northeast of Phoenix provides scenic mountain lakes very popular for power boating, water skiing and fishing. Several Reservation casinos, greyhound tracks and horse tracks are available both in town and on the outskirts of town.

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Adventuring Dreamers

What to do in Phoenix: The Ultimate 5-Day Phoenix Itinerary

Visiting Phoenix, but not sure what to do while you’re in town? No worries, I got you. This 2-5 day Phoenix itinerary outlines all the best things to do in Phoenix from breakfast to after-dinner drinks, and everything in between.

Known for its golf courses, shopping, hiking, and resorts, Phoenix has become one of the top U.S. travel destinations in the country. Completely surrounded by mountains, showing off beautiful weather (almost) year-round, and stuffed to the brim with entertainment, fine dining, and fun things to do, it’s no wonder you’re looking to build your Phoenix itinerary.

I moved to Phoenix when I was 19 and I spent 9 years exploring every nook and cranny in this town. Despite being famous for it, Phoenix is so much more than golf courses and shopping. We’ve got some crazy hikes, amazingly talented local artists, cool-ass museums, and so much more. So, if you’re ready to plan your Phoenix itinerary like a local, read on my friend.

About this Phoenix Itinerary

In this Phoenix Itinerary, I go over everything you need to know to plan your trip to the Valley of the Sun. I’ll help you decide which time of year to visit, where to stay, and what to do while you’re here. 

This guide was written with the idea that you are staying in Phoenix for up to 5 days. That means that every day’s schedule both begins and ends in Phoenix. This Phoenix itinerary will guide you through the main attractions in town, and it also includes two day trips, one to Sedona and one to Tombstone. If you’re planning a 5-day trip to Phoenix and don’t want to dip out to some of the other cool towns in AZ, or if you want to swap out an activity from the schedule, I’ve also included a few extra fun activities at the end of the guide that you can mix and match with. 

A quick note: The Phoenix Metropolitan Area includes a number of different cities. So, when I say “Phoenix itinerary,” I’m also including places like Scottsdale, Tempe, and North Phoenix.

How to use this Phoenix Itinerary for 2-5 Days of Travel

If you only have 24 hours in Phoenix, click here to read my 24-hours in Phoenix Itinerary where I’ve included the absolute must-dos in town. But if you’re planning a longer stay, you can customize the itinerary below to fit any length of time from a weekend trip all the way up to 5 days in the valley. Each day scheduled below is written to stand alone or work as a consecutive schedule, so you can mix and match with the things that sound interesting to you. Luckily, Phoenix was created with a great freeway system so it is super easy to get around to different parts of the valley in very little time. This means you can feel free to swap any of the below dates and mix and match itineraries to your heart’s content.

Best time of year to visit Phoenix

Unless you’ve been living under a rock your whole life, you’ve probably heard that Phoenix can get pretty hot. In fact, as I’m writing this, it is currently 105° outside. BUT, I am publishing this post in the summer, which is not when I recommend you come to visit. 

The best time of year to visit Phoenix is any month from the beginning of October through the end of April, although I highly recommend the spring or fall when the weather is in the high-seventies to low-eighties.

Phoenix is also beautiful to visit in the winter. We don’t get snow, but you can hang out with the palm trees and gorgeous weather in the perfect 72°.

Where to stay in Phoenix

Thanks to our many freeways, Phoenix is a pretty easy place to get around. Not to mention almost the entire valley is built on a grid system, so it’s almost impossible to get lost. In fact, when I first moved to Phoenix in 2013, I’d recently broken my iPhone and had to learn how to get around without a GPS or smartphone to help me out, and I rarely ran into any problems— even downtown!

What this means for you is that it doesn’t matter so much where you stay. We’re going to explore the whole valley anyway. So, instead of picking a hotel based on location and convenience, pick a part of town that matches your vibe. Here are just a few examples to help you find the right location for you:

Known for its luxury and resort, Scottsdale is a desert oasis hidden under the McDowell Mountains. If you’re looking to feel pampered and relaxed, as well as just a stone’s throw away from boutique shopping and art galleries, Scottsdale is the place for you. Here are a few of the 5-star resorts available to book in Scottsdale:

The Phoenician

The Hyatt Regency

Fairmont Scottsdale Princess

The Westin Kierland Resort and Spa

Downtown Phoenix

If you’re looking for true city vibes, Downtown Phoenix is your place. Here, bars, theaters, museums, and sports arenas are sprinkled between high-rise buildings. Here are just a few of your options for staying in Downtown Phoenix:

Hyatt Regency Phoenix

Kimpton Hotel Palomar Phoenix

The Westin Phoenix Downtown

The Clarendon Hotel and Spa

Home to the Sun Devils, Tempe is where Arizona State University has sat since 1885. You may have heard of ASU’s reputation as a party school, and, for better or worse, the university has rubbed off on its hometown. If you’re looking for some nightlife in town, Mill Avenue in Tempe is probably where you’re going to end up. Here are a few hotels you might want to check out:

Canopy by Hilton Tempe Downtown

Tempe Mission Palms

Marriott Phoenix Resort Tempe at the Buttes

Graduate Tempe

North Phoenix

North Phoenix is the perfect place to stay if you’re looking to get away from the crowds and get in on some gorgeous views. Further away from the hustle and bustle of the city, North Phoenix is on the edge of the desert and surrounded by the Phoenix Mountains. Here are a few options for staying in North Phoenix:

Hilton Garden Inn North Phoenix

Courtyard by Marriott North Phoenix

Drury Inn and Suites North Phoenix

Hilton Phoenix Tapatio Cliffs Resort

Not really what you’re looking for? Click here to browse other hotels in the Phoenix area!

Prefer more intimate housing? Click here to check out private vacation rentals in town.

How to get around during your trip to Phoenix

Unlike other big cities like New York or Los Angeles, Phoenix does not have the most intricate metro system. In order to get the most out of your trip, I highly recommend renting a car while you’re in town, especially if you decide to do one of the day trips I recommend below. 

The Ultimate 5-Day Phoenix Itinerary

Finally, let’s get into the good stuff…

This Phoenix itinerary is built to be completely customizable. If you don’t like one of the activity options, feel free to swap it out with one of the bonus activities listed at the end of this article! The same thing goes if you’d rather not take a day trip to Sedona or Tombstone. If that’s the case, feel free to fill those days with some of the bonus activities as well. 

Phoenix Itinerary Day 1: Arrive in Phoenix

Arrive in Phoenix → Pick up rental car → Lunch at Green New American Vegetarian → Check in to hotel or vacation rental Restaurant → Desert Botanical Gardens → (Optional) Evening Hike at Papago Park Butte Loop → Dinner in Downtown Tempe → Nightlife on Mill Avenue

Arrive and Get Settled

Welcome to Phoenix, the Valley of the Sun! We’ve got a busy 5 days ahead of us, so we’re going to start off a little slow today. 

After your plane hits the tarmac and you’ve gathered your belongings from the luggage carousel, go ahead and pick up your rental car. Depending on what time your plane has landed, it may be too early to check in at your hotel or vacation rental. If that’s the case, I recommend enjoying lunch at Green New American Vegetarian before you drop off your bags. There is a location in downtown Phoenix as well as in Tempe, so you can pick whichever option is closer to where you’re staying.

Now that you’ve got a full belly to curb the jet lag, go ahead and check in to your room. At this point, you’ve got a choice. You can either drop off your bags and head back out, or you can flop onto your bed for a few hours and recuperate from your travels. Seriously, no judgment if you choose the second option.

Our first adventure— Desert Botanical Gardens

If you chose to get right into it, it’s time for our first adventure. We’re going to head to East Phoenix where the Desert Botanical Garden sits right in between Scottsdale and Tempe. The garden is a gorgeous park blossoming with hundreds of desert plants. There are plenty of trails to wander around and immerse yourself in the desert beauty. If you come in spring, you’re in for an extra special treat as many of the plants will be in full bloom. 

You’ll need about two hours to explore the park.

Optional Evening Hike: Papago Park Butte Loop

Phoenix is a hub for hiking. And it’s no wonder since it’s completely surrounded by desert mountains. There are more than 230 hikes around town, so if hiking is your thing, you’ll have plenty of opportunities while you’re here. While the Desert Botanical Garden does have a few trails to wander, they’re more meant for wandering than for hiking. If you’re looking for a bit more exercise, I recommend checking out Papago Park Butte Loop . It’s right next door to the Botanical Garden and is an easy hike that will only take you about 45 minutes to complete. While there isn’t much of an incline on this trail, the hike is well worth it for the strange rock formations that line the path.

Dinner and Nightlife in Downtown Tempe

After you’re done exploring the desert, you’re just a hop, skip, and jump away from Mill Avenue in Downtown Tempe. This is a great place to get dinner since there are a plethora of options. I recommend trying some authentic Mexican cuisine at Loco Patron . After dinner, it’s time to party like a Phoenician. Mill Avenue is right next door to the state university, so you know the bars and entertainment are going to be top-notch. You can even join the Arizona P a rty Bike on a pub crawl, or create your own personal crawl by exploring the many bars and clubs dotted along the main street. 

Phoenix Itinerary Day 2: Let’s Get Cultured!

Sunrise hot air balloon ride → (Optional) Dixie Loop Trail hike → Breakfast at Eggstacy → The MIM (and/or) The Heard Museum → See a play at Phoenix Theater Company → After-show drinks at Highball Cocktails Speakeasy

Cross off a bucket-list experience first thing in the morning— Sunrise hot air balloon ride

Rise and shine, starshine! I hope you didn’t party too hard last night because we’ve got an early morning today. Hopefully, you’ve shaken off the rest of your jet lag by now because it’s time for adventure. We’re going to start day 2 with one of the coolest experiences you can do in Phoenix: a sunrise hot air balloon ride. Rainbow Ryders is here to help you fulfill a one-of-a-kind bucket list experience by taking you up to 3,000 feet in the air just after sunrise. See the Sonoran Desert vistas from a bird’s eye view that most people never get to see and conclude your flight with a celebratory toast and a commemorative flight certificate. 

The flight on the balloon is about an hour, and the full experience takes about three hours. 

Optional Morning Hike: Dixie Mountain Loop Trail

For all my hikers out there, I got you. If you’re one of those people who love the outdoors, I am including an optional hike every day in this Phoenix itinerary. If you’re not a hiker, no worries. Feel free to skip these activities and move on to the next, or simply fill in the space with one of the optional activities from the end of this article. 

Dixie Mountain Loop Trail is a moderate trail in North Phoenix. In many areas, the hills of the desert block out the view from the city, giving off the effect that you’re completely lost in nature. It’s a great place to get in touch with the desert and appreciate Arizona’s wide, blue skies.

The full loop takes about two hours to complete, or you can just go part way and turn around to match whatever time frame you’re working with.

Breakfast at Eggstacy

We’re staying in the general area of North Phoenix this morning, which is great because that means you can grab breakfast at one of my favorite restaurants, Eggstacy at Norterra . My roommate (who’s a total foodie and a professionally trained chef) introduced me to this gem of a breakfast joint. Here, the food is fresh and the portions are huge. And I mean, huge . My favorite dish is the berry crepes which come with three ginormous crepes stuffed with blackberries, blueberries, and strawberries.

Fair warning, this is a popular local place and on weekends the wait times can run long.

Let’s Get Cultured! A choice of two museums 

We’ve got two fantastic museum options, depending on your interests. If you’ve got the time, I highly recommend visiting both. Each museum takes about 2-4 hours, so it’s possible to squeeze both museums in one day if you skip breakfast and the optional hike. If that doesn’t feel like an option to you, pick your fav. 

Option A: The Musical Instrument Museum

If you have any interest in music at all, as in, if you like to listen to music, play music, sing music, etc., then visiting the Musical Instrument Museum (MIM) is a must while you’re in Phoenix. This is the only global instrument museum in the world, which is pretty darn special. The MIIM’s curated collection is enough to keep anyone immersed in the museum for hours. 

They even have an award-winning café, Café Allegro, which is where we’ll be having lunch today. The café has an ever-changing menu of global cuisine, and always offers vegan and vegetarian options. 

I recommend spending about 3-4 hours at the museum, including time for lunch. 

Option B: The Heard Museum

The most prominent museum for Native American art and culture, The Heard Museum is a very important stop on your Phoenix adventure. The museum teaches about different Native American cultures and displays art from contemporary artists. 

The Heard Museum also has its own café, The Courtyard Café , where they serve classic southwestern dishes. This is a great option for lunch if you choose to visit the Heard Museum instead of the MIM.

I recommend spending about 2-3 hours at the museum, including time for lunch. 

Get entertained by local actors at the Phoenix Theater Company

If you’ve chosen to visit The Heard Museum, you’ve already made your way to downtown Phoenix. However, if you’re still up north, at this point you’ll make your way downtown. 

One of my favorite things to do in Phoenix is to see a play at the Phoenix Theater Company. From hilarious to heartwarming, the Phoenix Theater always puts on a great show. Not to mention, it’s a historical monument. It was founded over a hundred years ago, and inside its theater is where Stephen Spielberg hosted his first film screening when he was 17. Click here to see the current season and what’s showing while you’re in town.

The theater has its own restaurant which opens at 5 pm and stops serving 40 minutes before showtime. The ArtBar+Bistro serves light salads and sandwiches. I personally haven’t eaten here, but the atmosphere looks delightful. Since the theater is downtown, there are plenty of other options for dinner nearby as well. I recommend trying the fully vegan restaurant, The Coronado , which is only a five-minute drive from the theater.

Optional nighttime activity: Jump back in time to the 1920s by visiting a speakeasy

I’ve listed this activity as optional because you probably had a late night last night, you got up early this morning, and (spoiler alert!) you’re going to get up early again tomorrow. It’s possible that by the time the show at the Phoenix Theater Company wraps up you’ll be ready for bed. If that’s the case, off with you! Go get your beauty sleep and no one will judge you for not staying up. However, if you are a night owl like me (at least when I’m on vacation), then I’ve got one more activity in store for you today and it’s gonna be the cat’s pajamas!

Drift back in time to the days of prohibition. We’re going to a speakeasy, baby! No, you don’t need to don a flapper dress and a cigarette holder to enter, and there is no password, but Highball Cocktails’ elegant, dimly-lit lounge will make you feel as though you’ve been whisked away into the 1920s.

Phoenix Itinerary Day 3: Day Trip to Sedona

Drive to Sedona →  Red Rocks Jeep Tour → (Optional) Hike Devil’s Bridge → Lunch in Uptown → Shopping, exploring, and dinner in Uptown Sedona → Drive back to Phoenix

Sedona is famous for her ethereal red rock formations, as well as for being a spiritual vortex. This town is one of my favorite places in Arizona, and a must-do for anyone who loves nature, hiking, or shopping.

Drive to Sedona

Sedona is about a two-hour drive from Phoenix. There’s a lot to do there and we’ve only got a day, so I recommend getting an early start. Since we’ll want to make the most of our time, I don’t recommend stopping for a big breakfast. Instead, take a few snacks you can eat on the road, or have some leftovers from yesterday. 

Adventurous Jeep Tour on the Red Rocks

The desert of Sedona is unlike anything you will see anywhere else, and Pink Jeep Tours will get you up close and personal with the wilderness. On their most popular tour, the Broken Arrow Tour , you’ll ride along in a pink Jeep Wrangler and climb over steep red rock mountains as a guide takes you deep into the backcountry that is untouched by any other explorers. 

Plan for about two hours for this adventure.

Optional Hike: The Devil’s Bridge

If you’ve only got a day in Sedona and can only do one hike, Devil’s Bridge will always be the one that I recommend. You’ve probably seen pictures of this huge natural archway bending over a red rock mountainous backdrop. The landscape is beautiful and the hike is satisfying. It’s about a four-mile, moderately difficult hike that takes about an hour and forty minutes, and you’ll leave with some of the coolest travel photos ever.

Since we didn’t stop for a full breakfast this morning, if you’ve chosen to go on this hike, you might get hungry before we get back into town. If you’re like me and turn into a total bear if you go longer than three hours between eating, then I recommend you pack a lunch to eat on the trail, or at the very least some snacks. Otherwise, I’ve suggested a few exquisite restaurants in town for lunch below.

Lunch in Uptown

Sedona’s downtown district is called Uptown, and it’s the host to a bunch of cute boutiques, restaurants, tourist shops, and new age shops. It does get a little touristy here, but it’s still one of my favorite places in the state to hang out. However, I recommend not coming on a Sunday as the place will be overflowing with people.

For lunch, I recommend ChocolaTree Organic Eatery . Their menu is super inclusive, offering plenty of vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options, and their produce is all organic and almost exclusively local!

Explore Sedona’s Downtown District 

If you’re someone who loves to shop for souvenirs while on vacation, don’t worry. I’ve got you covered. I’ve scheduled three opportunities for shopping— today in Sedona, tomorrow in Tombstone, and later on in the week in Scottsdale. Some of my favorite shops in Uptown Sedona include Sedona Fudge Company , Gypsy Jenny’s , and Sedona Crystal Vortex . 

I also recommend visiting Tlaquepaque, an outdoor mall area with even more art galleries, restaurants, and eccentric shops to visit. Across the street from Tlaquepaque is The Center for the New Age . This is my favorite new age shop anywhere in the world. They have a wide collection of crystals, books, and music.

At many of the Uptown shops, you can book a reading with a psychic or get your aura photographed. I highly recommend you do that while in town since it’s such a fun and enlightening experience.

Dinner in Uptown and driving back down the hill

Why is traveling so great if not for experiencing cultures and food? Luckily, Sedona has no shortage of restaurants to choose from. For dinner, I recommend Oaxaca Restaurant . Their rooftop patio seating showcases views that are out of this world.

After dinner, it’s time to head back down the mountain into Phoenix and enjoy a great night’s sleep.

For more options and alternate itineraries for a day in Sedona, click here to read an entire blog I wrote titled The Perfect Day Trip To Sedona .

Phoenix Itinerary Day 4: Day Trip to Tombstone

Drive to Tombstone → (Optional) Hike of your choice → Shopping on Allen Street → Lunch at Big Nose Kate’s → Take an Old-Timey photo → Watch the O.K. Corral gunfight reenactment → Take a tour inside a silver mine → Dinner at the Longhorn Restaurant → Ghost tour → Drive back to Phoenix

Mornin’, partner. Once again, we’re about to do some time traveling, and this time, we’re going to the Old West. Yee-haw!

Tombstone is the “Town Too Tough To Die” and so it’s been for almost two hundred years. When you arrive, you’ll feel as though you’ve been transported back to the 1800s with the original historic buildings on Allen Street still standing, and gun fights reenacted throughout the day. 

Drive to Tombstone

If you’re not an early bird, you’re going to hate me when I say it, but it’s another early morning today. Tombstone is about a three-hour drive south of Phoenix and we want to make the most of our day, so, as the saying goes, the early bird catches the worm! Again, I recommend taking breakfast on the road to save you a bit of time this morning.

Optional Hike

I’m going to be honest with you, I’ve never hiked in Tombstone. But, I know how important hiking is to some of you and I want to make sure you have options. So, I found this list of hikes near Tombstone that you can pick from if hiking every day is a must for you.

Shopping on Allen Street

Preserved to look just as it did in the 1880s, Allen Street appears to be frozen in time. No traffic is allowed to drive down the street, and as you stroll on foot, you’ll pass real cowboys, spurs and all. The street is dotted with vintage clothing, antique, souvenir, and ice cream shops.

Lunch at Big Nose Kate’s

Enjoy Southwestern and Mexican dishes while listening to live country bands play at Big Nose Kate’s Saloon . The restaurant is named after gunslinger Doc Holiday’s girlfriend and lady of the night, Katherine Haroney, who was nicknamed, Big Nose Kate.

Dress Up and Take an Old-Timey Photo

After lunch, head over to Lady L’s Creations to dress up in authentic Old Western clothing and take a sepia-colored photo to keep as a unique souvenir. 

Watch the O.K. Corral Gunfight Reenactment

In 1881, gunfire burst the eardrums of all those standing on Fremont Street. In just 24 seconds, 30 shots were fired and Tombstone became a place of legend. Now, actors reenact the famous gunfight between outlaws and lawmen four times a day. Just make sure you get your tickets a few hours in advance !

Tour Inside a Real Silver Mine— Goodenough Silver Mine Tour

This 45-minute tour will take you 100 feet below the surface inside a historical mine from the 1880s. Deep underground, you’ll be able to watch demonstrations of how silver was mined by hand and candlelight in the 1880s.

Dinner at the Longhorn Restaurant

The Longhorn Restaurant is the oldest continually operating restaurant in Tombstone. The building used to be the Bucket of Blood Saloon and is where Tombstone Marshall Virgil Earp was shot in an attempted murder in the 1880s. Now they serve American food and classy cocktails.

Get Spooked on a Ghost Tour

Like any town from the Old West, Tombstone has its history of violence and shootouts, which means, of course, the town is now haunted. It may even be one of the most haunted towns in the West. Get friendly with the spirits of Tombstone on a tour from Ghost City Tours where they will show you the most haunted spooks in town.

Drive back to Phoenix

It’s a long drive back. You’re going to get back late. You’re probably exhausted. We’ve had four full, fun days of adventuring and exploring and tomorrow is the last day in town! Luckily, tomorrow you also get to sleep in.

Phoenix Itinerary Day 5: Last Day in Phoenix!

Breakfast at Butterfield’s Pancake House → Hike Camelback Mountain → Lunch in Old Town Scottsdale → Explore and shop in Old Town Scottsdale → Enjoy a relaxing massage → Fly home

Our time here has come and gone so fast. I hope you’ve had a great time in Phoenix. It’s one of my favorite cities in the world. If you’re staying in town for longer, check out the list of additional activities I have at the bottom of this article. Otherwise, enjoy your last day in the Valley of the Sun!

Breakfast at Butterfield’s Pancake House

It’s our last day on vacation, so we’re going to indulge. Butterfield’s Pancake House has been voted as the best breakfast joint in Scottsdale by over 1,200 reviews on Tripadvisor . They’ve been in business for over 40 years, so you know they know how to make a pancake. Better fuel up, because this time the hike is not optional— it’s the main activity!

Hike the Famous Camelback Mountain

Phoenix may have over 230 hikes around the valley, but as far as anyone is concerned, Camelback Mountain is the crown jewel. There are two hikes on this mountain, one on either side, and they meet in the middle. So, if you’re really ambitious and think you can handle it, you can even hike up and over the mountain and come back down the other side.

The two hike options here are Cholla Trail and Echo Canyon . Both hikes are steep and rocky, but Echo Canyon is the more brutal out of the two. Cholla Trail will give you more desert views while Echo Canyon feels like a StairMaster except you’re outside. In the end, it doesn’t matter which one you pick, though, because the view at the top is absolutely phenomenal.

Both hikes take about 2-3 hours.

Lunch in Old Town Scottsdale

By this time, I’ll bet you’ve worked off your pancakes and are starving. Hiking Camelback will do that to a person. Just a few minutes away from the trailhead at Camelback is the historic Old Town Scottsdale district. This area is lined with restaurants to match any tastebud’s desires. I recommend trying Olive & Ivy , a restaurant and bar that serves Californian-Mediterranean dishes.

Wander around Old Town

In addition to having an abundance of restaurants, Old Town Scottsdale is also a great place to wander. This historic area is where settlement in Scottsdale began in 1888, and now it’s home to restaurants, boutiques, art galleries, and tourist shops. 

Feel free to wander into an open art gallery and admire a local artist’s work, or even buy tickets to an immersive event at Lighthouse Ar t Space . I saw the Van Gogh Exhibit there and it was stunning. 

Relax and unwind with a massage at Running Water Spa at the Scottsdale C a melback Resort . It’s been a long week and you absolutely deserve to end your Phoenix vacation with a little self-care. 

We hate to see you go, but we love to watch you leave. Just kidding. But, seriously, Phoenix is a place that means a lot to me, so I hope you enjoyed your trip here. Hopefully, you got a lot of good ideas from this Phoenix itinerary and found a lot of value in it.

Additional Activities for the Phoenix Itinerary

This Phoenix itinerary is built to be completely customizable, so I’ve included a list of additional activities you can swap out for any in the above itinerary that might not excite you. Also, if you’re staying for more than 5 days, use these extra activities as inspiration to help you plan the itineraries for the rest of your time in town.

• Japanese Friendship Garden
• Goldfield Ghost Town
• Guided UTV Tour of the Sonoran Desert
• Phoenix Art Museum
• Wonderspaces
• Ballet Under the Stars
• Taliesin West

Was this itinerary useful? Check out some of our others here:

• The Perfect Day Trip To Sedona— How To Maximize Your Time
• How to Spend 24-Hours in Phoenix (The Ultimate One-Day Phoenix Itinerary)
• Perfect Day Trip to Portland, Maine: The Best 1-Day Itinerary

Additional Resources:

Booking a trip to arizona.

Here are a few helpful services:

Booking.com | Find a comfy place to lay your head after a full day of adventuring.

Vrbo | If you’re looking for a more homey vibe, these rental homes might do the trick.

Expedia | Whether you’re looking for some wheels or a flight, you can find a way to get to your destination here.

Get Your Guide | Find local attractions and tours and book tickets to your excursions.

TSA | If you’re flying, check out the TSA page to make sure that you pack to TSA regulations.

Arizona Travel Guides :

Only staying in Pheonix for a day? Check out my 24-hours in Phoenix Itinerary .

Visiting Sedona? You might want to check out my Day Trip to Sedona Guide to help jumpstart your itinerary.

Need help figuring out what to pack? Here is my Arizona Packing List Essentials for Every Time Of Year Packing Guide.

Click Here to see more from the Adventuring Dreamers Resources.

Looking for more hikes in the Phoenix area? Check out these 9 Hidden, Little-Known Hikes in Phoenix .

Interested in spending more time in sedona i highly recommend checking out amitabha stupa and peace park , one of my favorite sedona hidden treasures. , are you visiting phoenix with your significant other here are 17 date ideas in phoenix that are great for locals or visitors., you might also enjoy:.

9 Hidden Little Known Hikes in Phoenix (And What I Think of the Most Popular One)

Guide to the Top 27 Things To Do in Arizona in April 2024 (By an Expert)

New York Itinerary 4 Days: The PERFECT Guide (From a Local)

The 5 Most Beautiful Lighthouses in Portland, Maine

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Phoenix Mystery Castle reopens Oct. 7. Here are 5 things you need to know before visiting

Corrections & Clarifications: A previous version of this article misspelled Boyce Luther Gulley's last name.

Arizona has always been a place where people come to find new opportunities. Some came to find gold, others to buy land and some to leave a past life and start anew. Thus, it’s become home to some of the most eclectic places, towns and people in the country.

The Mystery Castle, situated at the foothills of South Mountain Park and Preserve in Phoenix, certainly fits that narrative.

A castle in the desert may seem unlikely in modern times, but this one was built in the 1930s by Boyce Luther Gulley for his daughter Mary Lou Gulley. And it has become a popular tourist attraction to curious people looking for a fun day out.

Want to know more? We've got you covered. The Mystery Castle reopens Oct. 7 after its summer closure. Here are five things you need to know before visiting. 

A castle made of recycled materials

The Mystery Castle was made with an assortment of building materials like recycled car parts and plow discs. It was also constructed with traditional building supplies like stone and cement. Gulley made sure to follow the contour of the mountain to create the structure's unique shape and to save money by not having to dig into the ground.

The castle was for his daughter

According to mymysterycastle.com  Gulley got the idea to build a castle in the desert from his daughter Mary Lou. The castle’s website notes that Gulley recalled memories of him and his daughter building sand castles on the beach together in Seattle. Mary Lou said, “Please, Daddy, build me a big and strong castle someday that I can live in.”

After learning he had tuberculosis, Gulley moved from Seattle to the Phoenix area and began construction while Mary Lou and her mother stayed in Seattle.  

It was actually a home

Mary Lou and her mother moved in shortly after Gulley died in 1945. Mary Lou called the 8,000-square-foot Mystery Castle home until she passed away in 2010.

The Mystery Castle is right in Phoenix

No need to search the open desert or any backcountry roads to find this castle. The Mystery Castle is 9 miles south of downtown Phoenix at 800 E. Mineral Road.

Mystery Castle is open for tours

Tours are offered 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Thursdays-Sundays from October through May. Admission is $10, $5 for ages 5-12.  Payment is by cash or check only. For more information, call 602-268-1581 or visit  mymysterycastle.com . 

You can connect with Arizona Republic Culture and Outdoors Reporter Shanti Lerner through email at [email protected]   or you can also follow her on  Twitter . 

Support local journalism  like this story by  subscribing  today.

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Ultimate guide to Rolling Stones 2024 at State Farm Stadium in Glendale: Tickets, parking

T he Rolling Stones will be getting their ya-ya’s out again at State Farm Stadium in Glendale when the Hackney Diamonds Tour hits metro Phoenix on Tuesday, May 7, a day the city has proclaimed shall temporarily be known as Ruby Tuesday .

This is the Stones’ third time at State Farm Stadium, where they last played in 2019 on their final tour with Charlie Watts, who left this world on Aug. 24, 2021.

The Hackney Diamond Tour is in support of their first album of original material in nearly 20 years, which topped the Billboard album charts in late October while leading many critics to proclaim it their best work since “Tattoo You” in 1981 (and whether you agree with that or not, it’s certainly a strong contender for the title).

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Glendale is the third stop on the Rolling Stones 2024 tour. Here’s everything you need to know before you go.

When is the Rolling Stones 2024 State Farm Stadium concert?

The Rolling Stones will play State Farm Stadium in Glendale on Tuesday, May 7.

What time does the Rolling Stones concert start?

Here's the timetable:

• Parking lots open at 4 p.m.
• Plaza opens at 5 p.m.
• Doors open at 6 p.m.
• Concert starts at 8 p.m.

When does State Farm Stadium open for concerts?

Doors open at 6 p.m. Fans are encouraged to show up as early as possible to avoid potential delays at the gates as you get closer to show time. The concert starts at 8 p.m. 

Motorists should expect congestion, especially during rush hour. Allow ample drive time and arrive no later than 6 p.m. to minimize the potential for delays.

Where is State Farm Stadium?

State Farm Stadium is off Loop 101 between Cardinals Way/Bethany Home Road and Glendale Avenue in the Glendale Sports and Entertainment District. 

The street address is 1 Cardinals Way, and typing "State Farm Stadium" into your phone will yield the same result, which may not be as helpful as you think.

In fact, fans are encouraged to avoid their favorite apps when approaching the stadium, as they do not take into account special road closures, traffic patterns and access routes allocated to specific carparks. Using these apps could result in a longer commute.

The stadium website encourages ticketholders to use the directions on the parking pass purchased at SeatGeek.com , as this accounts for road closures and event-specific diversions. 

State Farm Stadium parking map

This map will help as you get close.

How to get to State Farm Stadium for the Rolling Stones

The State Farm Stadium website offers these directions:

From the south:  Take Loop 101 north, exit at Bethany Home Road/Cardinals Way and turn right off the exit. State Farm Stadium is on the left.

From the north:  Take Loop 101 south, exit at Glendale Avenue and turn right onto Glendale Avenue. Make the first left onto 99th Avenue and left onto Maryland Avenue and continue over the bridge. State Farm Stadium is on the right.

From the East Valley using Interstate 10:  Follow I-10 west to Loop 101 north. Exit at Bethany Home Road/Cardinals Way and turn right off the exit. State Farm Stadium is on the left.

From the East Valley using surface streets:  Take Glendale Avenue west to 91st Avenue. Turn left onto 91st Avenue. State Farm Stadium is on the right.

From the West Valley using I-10:  Follow I-10 east to Loop 101 north. Exit at Bethany Home Road/Cardinals Way and turn right off the exit. State Farm Stadium is on the left.

From the West Valley using surface streets:  Take Glendale Avenue east to 95th Avenue. Turn right on 95th Avenue and follow it south. State Farm Stadium is on the left.

Rolling Stones 2024 tickets in Phoenix

Tickets are available through  SeatGeek , starting at $65.

Is State Farm Stadium air-conditioned?

Yes, State Farm Stadium is air-conditioned. 

Will the State Farm Stadium roof be open?

Most likely not.

Can I bring a seat cushion or blanket to State Farm Stadium?

Yes. One-piece foam seat cushions no larger than 18 inches without pockets, zippers or concealable areas are permitted.

Additional clothing, blankets, etc., are permitted if carried loosely or in an approved clear bag. Blankets should be carried over the shoulder to be screened more quickly.

State Farm Stadium security

Metal detector screening and a search of all bags and other items will take place at stadium gates. There are no provisions to store or safeguard prohibited bags. Guests will be asked to return prohibited items to their cars. 

State Farm Stadium water bottle policy

You can bring in one factory-sealed, non-frozen 500ml (16.9 ounce) bottle of plain water. Sports drinks and flavored water are not permitted.

Glass bottles, cans and vacuum bottles also are not allowed.

State Farm Stadium prohibited items

The following items are not permitted inside State Farm Stadium:

• Aerosol cans.
• Alcoholic beverages.
• Animals (except for documented service animals).
• Bags that do not meet NFL guidelines (must be clear and smaller than 12 by 12 by 6 inches).
• Banners or signs larger than 3 feet by 2 feet.
• Beverages other than one factory-sealed, non-frozen 500ml (16.9 ounce) bottle of plain water. Sports drinks and flavored water are not permitted.
• Beverage containers — glass bottles, cans and vacuum bottles.
• Cameras with professional lenses, tripods/monopods and iPads.
• Chewing tobacco.
• E-cigarettes/vaporizer pens.
• Clothing deemed obscene or indecent in a public setting.
• Coolers of any kind.
• Food (unless used for children younger than 2).
• Footballs and beach balls (inflated or deflated).
• Illegal drugs.
• Laptop computers.
• Laser pointers.
• Noisemakers of any kind (whistles, horns, bells, etc.).
• Poles or sticks of any kind, including selfie sticks and brooms.
• Seat cushions except those that are one piece and have no zippers, pockets or concealable areas.
• Golf carts, skateboards, rollerblades or hoverboards.
• Umbrellas larger than 12 inches in length.
• Unmanned aircraft systems (drones, etc.).
• Video cameras (single purpose).
• Weapons of any kind including, but not limited to, firearms and knives.
• Any item deemed inappropriate or hazardous by stadium security.

State Farm Stadium bag policy for concerts

The NFL clear bag policy is enforced for all events at State Farm Stadium. Fans are encouraged to bring no bags, but the following will be permitted:  

• Bags that are clear plastic, vinyl or PVC and do not exceed 12 by 12 by 6 inches. This includes clear backpacks, fanny packs and cinch bags.
• One-gallon clear plastic freezer bag (Ziploc or similar).
• Small clutch bags, with a maximum size of 4.5 inches by 6.5 inches, with or without a handle or strap, may be carried into the stadium along with one clear bag.
• Exceptions for medically necessary items will be made after inspection at a gate designated for this purpose.

Is State Farm Stadium a cashless venue?

Yes. Cash is not accepted at State Farm Stadium.

Lost and found at State Farm Stadium

Report lost items by filling out  the form at statefarmstadium.com . In the Item Description section, provide as much information as possible. If an item is turned in that matches your description, you will be contacted.

Rolling Stones 2024 tour at State Farm Stadium in Glendale

When: 8 p.m. Tuesday, May 7.

Where:  State Farm Stadium, 1 Cardinals Way, Glendale.

Admission:  $63 and up.

Details:  800-745-3000,  SeatGeek.com .

Reach the reporter at  [email protected]  or 602-444-4495. Follow him on X (formerly Twitter)  @EdMasley .

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This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Ultimate guide to Rolling Stones 2024 at State Farm Stadium in Glendale: Tickets, parking

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