Top Things to Do in Phoenix

Phoenix, United States

About the City

Phoenix, United States: A Desert Metropolis Phoenix, a city with sizzling temperatures, stands out like an oasis in the heart of Arizona. With over 300 days of sunshine a year, you can bet your cactus-flavored ice cream that outdoor activities are a staple. Take a hot air balloon ride for an awe-inspiring perspective of the Sonoran Desert, or hike up Camelback Mountain for a panoramic view that'll knock your flip-flops off. And let's taco 'bout the food scene – it's as spicy as the weather with an authentic Mexican cuisine that'll tickle your taste buds silly. But beware, the heat isn't always your amigo. Summer feels like you're living on the surface of the sun, and air conditioning is more precious than gold. Rush hour traffic might make you feel like a gecko on a skillet, but that's the price you pay for dancing with this desert gem. Not a fan of the sweltering heat? Phoenix throws a curveball with its unexpected winter chill, so pack a sweater for those 'cold' 60-degree days. This city is a wild ride, with a climate that has more mood swings than a teenager and a charm that will steal your sunscreen-soaked heart.

Things to Do in Phoenix

Nibble on Cactus Candy

Food & Drink

Feeling adventurous? Take a bite of the desert with delicious cactus candy! This sweet treat is made from the prickly pear cactus and boasts a delectable chewiness with a fruity finish. It's like capt...

Bask in the Beauty of the Desert Botanical Garden

Outdoors

Step into a living tapestry of vibrant desert flora at Phoenix's Desert Botanical Garden. Home to over 50,000 plants, this garden immerses you in the Southwest’s incredible biodiversity. With trails w...

Attend a Junkyard Symphony Show

The Unexpected

Transform your perception of waste as you attend this vibrant, unconventional music show where 'junk' transforms into jazzy symphonies. Get ready for an auditory adventure where every shuffle and plun...

Unleash Your Inner Cowboy at a Ranch Visit

The Unexpected

Dust off your boots and channel your inner cowboy or cowgirl at an authentic Arizona ranch! Embrace the essence of the Wild West with experiences like cattle herding, horseback riding, and even learni...

Visit a Retro Drive-In Movie Theater

The Unexpected

Step into a blockbuster time machine at the classic West Wind Drive-In, where the latest silver screen hits merge with the warm nostalgia of yesteryear. Flip-flop back to cool nights under the desert ...

Explore an Ancient Petroglyph Site

The Unexpected

Journey back in time at the Hidden Valley Petroglyphs. They are an ancient narrative etched into stone by the Hohokam people hundreds of years ago. Imagine being an explorer of old, discovering art fr...

Rock Climbing at Pinnacle Peak

Outdoors

Calling all rock climbers! Pinnacle Peak offers rugged granite climbing routes that cater to a variety of skill levels. With trails offering upward challenges and rewarding views, you're sure to be ca...

Cycle Through the Canal Paths

Outdoors

Pedal your way through a different side of Phoenix by exploring its canal paths. These bikeways are a unique blend of urban convenience and natural beauty, providing easy rides with scenic backdrops. ...

Take a Sunrise Hike at Dobbins Lookout

Outdoors

Phoenix is renowned for its endless sunshine, but witnessing a sunrise from Dobbins Lookout is next-level magical. As you ascend the rugged trail, watch the horizon burst into colors, casting a breath...

Enjoy a Picnic at Encanto Park

Outdoors

For a charming escape within the city, head to Encanto Park—often touted as a 'Phoenix gem'. Spread your blanket out by the sparkling lagoon, and savor your favorite picnic snacks under shady trees. A...

Sip on Sonoran Craft Brews

Food & Drink

Phoenix's craft beer scene is hopping! Discover locally brewed gems, often featuring distinctive ingredients like agave or barrel-aged flavors that reflect the spirit of the Southwest. Each sip tells ...

Take Flight at Piestewa Peak

Sights

Lace up your hiking boots and hit the trails of Piestewa Peak for an exhilarating adventure! This spot offers a range of hikes, from quick jaunts to more challenging climbs with rewarding views of the...

Discover Cosanti Originals

Sights

Step into a world that merges art and architecture with Cosanti Originals, the residence and workspace of Italian-American architect Paolo Soleri. Imagine being surrounded by cosmic bells and unconven...

Stroll Through South Mountain Park and Preserve

Sights

Stomp your feet on the largest municipal park in the United States – South Mountain Park and Preserve. It’s a sprawling desert playground with over 16,000 acres and a variety of trails for all hiking ...

Journey Through the Hall of Flame Fire Museum

Sights

Ready to wrap yourself in history that’s rich with fire-fighting tales? The Hall of Flame Fire Museum will spark your interest with its collection of over 130 wheeled pieces of fire apparatus from 172...

Tour Taliesin West, Frank Lloyd Wright's Winter Home

Sights

Dive into the world of one of the most acclaimed architects with a visit to Taliesin West, Frank Lloyd Wright’s winter home and studio. This desert gem nestled in the foothills of the McDowell Mountai...

Sweeten Up with Lemon Scones

Food & Drink

Phoenix has a surprising love affair with scones, but not just any scones. These pastries come infused with a zesty lemon twist, offering bursts of citrusy freshness that complement their buttery crum...

Dive into Desert Honey

Food & Drink

Phoenix is buzzing with one of the sweetest local gems – cactus honey! This golden nectar is harvested from the delicate blossoms of desert plants and is perfect for adding a unique twist to your tea ...

Dig into Desert-Infused Chocolate

Food & Drink

Think you've tasted it all? Think again! Phoenix offers chocolate handcrafted with desert botanicals like mesquite, chiltepin pepper, and even cactus. These decadent delights combine silky cocoa with ...

Explore the Underground of a Famed Arizona Bunker

The Unexpected

Ever wanted to step into a world of Cold War clandestine operations right in the heart of Phoenix? Well, now you can! Hidden beneath the sands of the Valley lies a relic from a bygone era when world s...