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Phoenix, also known as “LA without the Pacific,” offers a unique blend of luxury shopping, a thriving restaurant scene, and a resort lifestyle amidst the beautiful Sonoran Desert. Unlike typical beachside destinations, here you’ll be greeted with striking red mountains and boulevards adorned with cacti. This once-ranching town has transformed into the fifth most populous city in the United States, thanks to its picturesque surroundings. The city’s allure is further enhanced by the presence of grand resorts, numerous golf courses, a growing bar scene, and affordable room rates. As a result, Phoenix has become a sought-after haven for snowbirds, families, and young adults alike.
“The Valley of the Sun” is a popular destination that attracts both wealthy guests seeking luxurious spas and shopping centers, as well as adventurous travelers enchanted by its unique desert landscape and numerous hiking trails. Visitors during spring, winter, and fall can enjoy spending most of their time outdoors, basking in the sunshine on golf courses, mountains, tennis courts, or by the poolside. The suburbs of Scottsdale, Mesa, Tempe, and Glendale offer a range of accommodations and activities to suit different budgets. Additionally, Phoenix serves as a convenient starting point for exciting Arizona tours, such as thrilling all-terrain vehicle rides through the desert. Although Phoenix may not boast the glamour and seaside charm of Los Angeles, you’ll find yourself content and relaxed, lounging by the poolside before embarking on an afternoon hike or indulging in a soothing massage.
Phoenix is a wonderful place to visit between November and April. During this time, the weather is pleasant with clear blue skies and temperatures ranging from the upper 60s to low 80s. However, it’s important to note that determining the seasons in this desert city can be tricky. Unlike other places, the leaves don’t change colors in the fall and flowers don’t blossom in the spring. Nevertheless, you will experience variations in temperature, especially during the hot summers when the average highs soar above 100 degrees Fahrenheit. If you can handle the intense heat, you’ll have the opportunity to find great deals at luxurious resorts.
Here are some of our favorite things to do while visiting Phoenix. Pick your favorite!
Escape from the scorching heat of Phoenix and find solace at the Arizona Science Center, an exciting destination in Arizona. It provides a wide range of engaging activities for children to learn about various subjects like electricity, weather …
Camelback Mountain, one of Phoenix’s tallest peaks, offers breathtaking views and is a popular hiking destination. With an elevation of over 2,700 feet, reaching the summit provides stunning panoramas of Phoenix and Scottsdale. The Echo Canyon Trail …
Visitors have found watching the Arizona Diamondbacks play at Chase Field to be a great experience, even for those who aren’t huge baseball fans. The park offers a kid-friendly atmosphere, cool air conditioning, and a retractable roof. It also has …
Children’s Museum of Phoenix The Children’s Museum of Phoenix is a favorite among kids with over 300 play experiences spread across three floors. It covers an expansive area of more than 48,000 square feet and features various exhibits designed for …
In the desert, it may be surprising to discover a wide variety of plants. The Desert Botanical Garden houses countless cacti, trees, and flowers from different parts of the world. These vibrant plants stand out against the cinnamon-red buttes of the …
For those who love history or appreciate art (or maybe both!), the Heard Museum is the perfect place to visit. Not only will you get to enjoy amazing exhibits, but you’ll also be able to escape the heat thanks to the air conditioning. Considered one …
Heritage Square in downtown Arizona offers a charming glimpse into Victorian-era history and architecture. This pedestrian-friendly district has a rich history dating back to the 1800s. One of its highlights is the beautifully restored Rosson House …
Papago Park offers various hiking trails, and one of the most unique ones is called Hole in the Rock. Situated amidst the red butte formations, this hike is relatively short but absolutely breathtaking. It’s just 0.3 miles roundtrip, and at the end, …
Nestled in the center of Scottsdale is the McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park, spanning 30 acres. It’s a special place that combines a municipal park, a railway museum, and a delightful spot for kids to have fun. You’ll discover many exciting things …
Venture just 20 miles north of downtown Phoenix, and you’ll discover the captivating Musical Instrument Museum. This remarkable place houses a vast collection of over 8,000 musical instruments from all corners of the globe. As you explore, be …
Papago Park, located less than 10 miles east of downtown Phoenix, is a beloved destination for both residents and tourists. This scenic park boasts the renowned Desert Botanical Garden and the Phoenix Zoo, attracting nature enthusiasts of all kinds. …
One of the largest art museums in the Southwest United States is housed in a remarkable Modernist building, which was partially designed by Frank Lloyd Wright. This museum showcases over 20,000 works of art, some of which date back to the …
Phoenix is becoming a top-notch golf destination, even though it’s located in a desert. The Valley of the Sun boasts around 200 golf courses, catering to players of all skill levels, from beginners to experts. When it comes to choosing the perfect …
If you’re not into hiking or golf, there’s another delightful way to spend your day: indulging in seaweed wraps or mud baths. Phoenix offers more than just beautiful green golf courses; it’s also famous for its fantastic day spas and luxurious …
If you’re looking for an exciting outdoor experience that won’t bore your little ones, the Phoenix Zoo is the perfect place to visit. Located east of downtown Phoenix, this zoo offers a range of habitats where over 3,000 animals reside. From …
Pueblo Grande is a must-visit for history and archaeology enthusiasts. It’s a National Historic Landmark and the biggest preserved archaeological site in Phoenix. The site showcases the remains of an ancient Hohokam village, which people lived in …
With its vast expanse of outdoor offerings, Arizona has something for everyone. One gem among many is South Mountain Park in Phoenix. This expansive park covers over 16,000 acres and is managed by the city. It boasts not just one, but three mountain …
Frank Lloyd Wright, a famous American architect, had a deep admiration for the Sonoran Desert. He chose an expansive area spanning almost 500 acres at the foot of the McDowell Mountains as his winter residence and school. Together with his students …