Top Attractions in Phoenix

1. Desert Botanical Garden

Explore thousands of desert plant species in a stunning natural setting.

Great trails and seasonal events like art installations and live music.

2. Camelback Mountain

Popular hiking destination with incredible city views from the summit.

Choose between Echo Canyon or Cholla Trail for different skill levels.

3. Heard Museum

Celebrates Native American culture and art, with a strong focus on the Southwest.

Home to powerful exhibits and traditional crafts.

4. Papago Park

Easy hiking, scenic views, and the famous Hole-in-the-Rock formation.

Also home to the Phoenix Zoo and Desert Botanical Garden.

5. Phoenix Art Museum

Diverse collection of classic and contemporary works.

Family-friendly, with rotating exhibitions and fashion installations.

6. Roosevelt Row Arts District (RoRo)

Downtown hotspot for murals, street art, indie galleries, and trendy cafes.

Check out First Fridays art walk for local culture and music.

7. South Mountain Park and Preserve

One of the largest municipal parks in the U.S.

Great for hiking, biking, and catching a desert sunset.

8. Arizona Science Center

Hands-on science exhibits, a planetarium, and live demonstrations.

Ideal for families and curious minds of all ages.

9. Chase Field

Home of the Arizona Diamondbacks.

Catch a game or take a behind-the-scenes stadium tour.

10. Musical Instrument Museum (MIM)

Unique museum featuring instruments from around the world.

Interactive displays and live music performances.

Where to Eat in Phoenix

1. Pizzeria Bianco – Nationally-acclaimed wood-fired pizza spot in Heritage Square.

2. Matt’s Big Breakfast – Classic comfort food and hearty breakfast fare downtown.

3. The Mission – Upscale Latin cuisine with great ambiance in Old Town Scottsdale.

4. Little Miss BBQ – Smoked meats and southern sides served until sold out. Go early!

5. The Breadfruit & Rum Bar – Sustainable Jamaican dishes and craft cocktails.

6. Cibo – Cozy Italian restaurant in a restored bungalow serving pizza and pasta.

7. Barrio Café – Inventive Mexican cuisine with bold flavors and famous street murals outside.

8. Welcome Diner – Retro vibes, fried chicken, and vegan-friendly Southern comfort.

9. Glai Baan – Thai street food served in a charming bungalow. A hidden gem.

10. Chula Seafood – Fresh seafood and poke bowls brought in from the West Coast daily.

Best Shopping Areas

– Biltmore Fashion Park – Open-air mall with luxury shops and fine dining.

– Scottsdale Fashion Square – Arizona’s largest shopping mall with designer and high-end brands.

– Melrose District – Eclectic shops, vintage stores, and antique finds.

– Desert Ridge Marketplace – Family-friendly shopping and entertainment complex.

– Uptown Plaza – Mid-century styled boutique shopping center with great dining options.

Getting Around Phoenix

– Rent a car – Recommended due to the city’s wide layout and hot weather.

– Valley Metro Light Rail – Connects downtown Phoenix, Tempe, and Mesa affordably.

– Valley Metro Bus System – Covers most neighborhoods and suburbs.

– Uber and Lyft – Widely available across the metro area.

– Biking and Scooters – Best used in cooler months or downtown areas like Roosevelt Row.

Best Time to Visit

– Spring (March–May) – Ideal weather with blooming desert landscapes and festivals.

– Fall (October–November) – Cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.

– Winter (December–February) – Perfect for hiking and outdoor events, especially for snowbirds.