21 Best Things To Do in Phoenix, Arizona
Phoenix, Arizona offers a vibrant mix of outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and family-friendly attractions that make it a standout destination in the Southwest. From hiking scenic desert trails to exploring world-class museums, there’s something for everyone in this sun-soaked city.
You’ll find Phoenix is the perfect blend of urban excitement and natural beauty, with activities ranging from botanical garden visits to thrilling water parks that help you beat the Arizona heat. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a returning traveler, these 21 attractions showcase the best of what Arizona’s capital has to offer throughout the year.
Visit the Desert Botanical Garden
The Desert Botanical Garden is a must-see attraction in Phoenix. You’ll find it nestled in Papago Park, showcasing over 50,000 desert plants from around the world.
As you walk through the garden’s five thematic trails, you can learn about desert ecosystems and plant adaptation. The garden spans 140 acres, giving you plenty to explore during your visit.
The spectacular desert wildflowers bloom in spring, creating a colorful display. But don’t worry if you visit in other seasons—there’s always something beautiful to see.
You might catch one of the garden’s special events, like Las Noches de las Luminarias during the holidays or seasonal art installations. These add extra magic to your experience.
Take your time walking the paths and stopping at the various exhibits. You’ll discover how people have used desert plants for food, medicine, and shelter throughout history.
Remember to bring water, sunscreen, and a hat, especially during warmer months. Early morning or late afternoon visits offer more comfortable temperatures and beautiful lighting for photos.
Hike Camelback Mountain
Camelback Mountain is one of Phoenix’s most iconic natural landmarks. You can choose between two challenging trails to reach the summit – Echo Canyon or Cholla.
Both trails offer amazing views of Phoenix and the surrounding valley. The hike is pretty tough, so bring plenty of water and wear good shoes.
The mountain got its name because it looks like a kneeling camel. It rises about 2,700 feet above sea level and stands out in the Phoenix skyline.
The best time for hiking is early morning, especially during warmer months. You’ll avoid the heat and get to watch the sunrise over the desert.
The trails can get busy on weekends, so a weekday visit might give you more space to enjoy the experience. Remember to stay on marked paths to protect the desert ecosystem.
When you reach the top, take time to soak in the 360-degree views. You’ll see why this is considered one of the best outdoor activities in Phoenix!
Explore the Musical Instrument Museum
The Musical Instrument Museum in Phoenix is a must-visit attraction for music lovers. With over 8,000 instruments from around the world, it’s the largest museum of its kind in the world.
When you enter, you’ll receive special headphones that automatically play music as you approach different exhibits. This creates a truly immersive experience as you explore instruments from nearly 200 countries.
The museum features special exhibits dedicated to famous musicians. You can see instruments played by Elvis Presley, John Lennon, Taylor Swift, and many other music icons.
Kids love the Experience Gallery where you can touch and play instruments yourself. From banging drums to strumming harps, it’s hands-on fun for visitors of all ages.
Plan to spend at least 2-3 hours here to fully enjoy the collection. The museum also has a nice café and gift shop where you can grab lunch or take home a musical souvenir.
The Musical Instrument Museum often hosts live performances in its theater, so check their schedule before your visit. You might catch a concert while you’re there!
Wander through the Phoenix Art Museum
The Phoenix Art Museum is a must-visit spot for art lovers in the city. With over 20,000 works spanning across different time periods and cultures, you’ll find something that catches your eye no matter what your taste is.
When you enter the museum, you’ll be greeted by a stunning modern building with plenty of natural light. The museum houses impressive collections of American, Asian, European, Latin American, and Western American art.
Don’t miss the contemporary art section, which features thought-provoking pieces from artists around the world. The fashion design gallery is another highlight, showcasing incredible clothing designs throughout history.
If you’re visiting with kids, check out the interactive PhxArtKids Gallery. This space makes art fun and accessible for the little ones in your group.
The museum often hosts special exhibitions, so check their website before you go. You might catch a unique show that’s only there for a limited time.
Plan to spend at least a couple hours exploring the museum. It’s a perfect indoor activity for those hot Phoenix days when you need a break from the sun.
Discover the Heard Museum
The Heard Museum offers a unique look at Native American art and culture in Phoenix. You’ll find amazing collections of pottery, jewelry, and traditional crafts from tribes across the Southwest.
When you visit, take time to explore the exhibit halls filled with historical artifacts and contemporary artwork. The museum showcases the talents of Native American artists both past and present.
One popular highlight is the katsina doll collection, featuring over 1,200 carved figures. These colorful dolls represent spiritual beings important to Hopi culture.
You can also enjoy live performances and demonstrations throughout the year. Artists often show their techniques in person, giving you a chance to see traditional crafts being made.
The museum shop offers authentic Native American artwork and jewelry for purchase. You can find one-of-a-kind pieces created by local artists to take home as souvenirs.
Plan to spend about two hours exploring the exhibits. The museum provides a peaceful break from the Arizona heat while teaching you about the rich cultural heritage of the Southwest.
Relax at the Japanese Friendship Garden
The Japanese Friendship Garden offers a peaceful escape from the bustling city life of Phoenix. This 3.5-acre oasis sits in the heart of downtown and features beautiful Japanese landscaping, koi ponds, and flowing streams.
As you wander along the winding paths, you’ll discover authentic Japanese design elements at every turn. The garden’s name “Ro Ho En” combines Japanese words for heron (ro), phoenix (ho), and garden (en), symbolizing the friendship between Phoenix and its sister city Himeji, Japan.
Take time to sit on a bench near the koi pond and watch the colorful fish swim beneath the surface. The sound of flowing water from the 12-foot waterfall creates a calming background noise perfect for relaxation.
The garden hosts tea ceremonies in the authentic tea house if you’d like to experience traditional Japanese culture. You might also spot various species of birds that have made this urban sanctuary their home.
Visit during different seasons to see how the garden transforms throughout the year. Spring brings beautiful blooming plants, while fall offers its own distinct charm with changing colors.
Catch a game at Chase Field
Chase Field is home to the Arizona Diamondbacks baseball team and a must-visit spot in Phoenix. The stadium features a retractable roof that keeps fans comfortable even during the hot summer months.
You can enjoy America’s favorite pastime while munching on unique ballpark foods. The stadium offers everything from traditional hot dogs to more exotic options like churro dogs and loaded tater tots.
Even if you’re not a huge baseball fan, the atmosphere at Chase Field is electric and fun for everyone. The stadium hosts special theme nights, fireworks, and family-friendly activities throughout the season.
Ticket prices are reasonable, with options to fit most budgets. You can find seats starting at around $20 for upper deck views or splurge on premium seats closer to the action.
The stadium is conveniently located in downtown Phoenix, making it easy to access via public transportation or car. You can combine your game day with visits to nearby restaurants and attractions for a full day of fun.
Don’t forget to check out the massive center field video board and the swimming pool beyond the right field fence – a unique feature you won’t find at many other ballparks!
Stroll through Heritage Square
Step back in time at Heritage Square, a charming historic area in downtown Phoenix. This square is home to the city’s oldest buildings, which date back to the Victorian era.
You’ll find beautiful old homes like the Rosson House Museum. This museum offers guided tours, letting you see how people lived in Phoenix during the late 1800s.
The square has more than just houses. You can visit restaurants, a coffee shop, and even a pizzeria housed in historic buildings. Each place keeps its old-time charm while serving modern treats.
Walking through the square is free, though museum tours cost a small fee. The beautiful gardens and peaceful setting make this a nice break from the busy city.
Heritage Square often hosts special events and festivals throughout the year. Check their calendar before your visit to see what might be happening.
This is a great spot for photos too. The Victorian architecture creates a perfect backdrop for memorable vacation pictures.
Enjoy the Phoenix Zoo
The Phoenix Zoo is a must-visit attraction in Arizona’s capital city. With over 3,000 animals representing 400 species, you’ll find plenty to explore across the 125-acre property.
You can spend hours watching fascinating creatures from around the world. The zoo is divided into four main trails: Africa, Tropics, Arizona, and Children’s trails.
Don’t miss the Monkey Village where you can walk through an open exhibit with squirrel monkeys. It’s one of the only places in the U.S. where you can get this close to these playful animals.
The zoo offers special encounters if you want to feed giraffes or get up close with stingrays. These experiences do cost extra but create unforgettable memories.
For families with young children, the splash pad area provides a fun way to cool off during hot days. The carousel and camel rides are also big hits with kids.
Plan to visit in the morning when animals are most active and temperatures are cooler. The zoo is open 365 days a year, making it easy to fit into your Phoenix itinerary.
Take a Desert Jeep Tour
Jeep tours through the Sonoran Desert give you an exciting way to explore Phoenix’s natural beauty. These guided adventures take you off-road to places regular cars can’t reach.
Your tour guide will share interesting facts about desert plants, wildlife, and local history along the way. You might spot cactus wrens, roadrunners, or even coyotes during your journey.
Many tour companies offer different options based on what you want to see. Some focus on desert geology while others highlight Native American history or mining stories.
People love sunrise and sunset tours because of the amazing colors that light up the desert sky. The changing light creates beautiful photo opportunities.
Remember to bring water, sunscreen, and a hat regardless of when you go. Desert temperatures can change quickly, so dressing in layers is also a good idea.
Most tours last between 2-4 hours, giving you plenty of time to experience the desert without getting too tired. Some companies even include refreshments or meals as part of your adventure.
Attend a show at ASU Gammage
ASU Gammage is one of Phoenix’s best entertainment venues. This stunning theater hosts Broadway shows, musical performances, and other cultural events throughout the year.
The building itself is impressive, designed by famous architect Frank Lloyd Wright. Its unique circular design makes it a landmark in the Phoenix area.
You can catch hit Broadway shows like “Hamilton,” “Wicked,” and “The Lion King” when they tour through Phoenix. The theater’s excellent acoustics make every performance sound amazing.
Getting tickets early is a good idea, especially for popular shows. The venue is located on Arizona State University’s campus in Tempe, making it easy to reach from Phoenix.
Before the show, you can grab dinner at one of the many restaurants nearby. Many theater-goers make an entire evening out of their Gammage experience.
Parking is available on-site, but it fills up quickly. You might want to arrive early or use the park-and-ride shuttle service for bigger shows.
Visit the Rosson House Museum
The Rosson House Museum is a stunning piece of Phoenix history located in the heart of Heritage Square. This Victorian-era home was built in 1895 and offers a glimpse into life during the late 19th century.
When you visit, you’ll get to tour the beautifully restored rooms filled with period-appropriate furniture and decorations. The knowledgeable guides will share interesting stories about the Rosson family and early Phoenix life.
The museum is open for guided tours several days a week. It’s best to check their website for current hours and admission prices before your visit.
After exploring the house, you can wander around Heritage Square and see other historic buildings in the area. There are also several restaurants nearby if you work up an appetite during your tour.
This is a perfect activity for history buffs or anyone interested in architecture. The house features amazing woodwork and details that showcase the craftsmanship of the era.
Plan to spend about an hour here to fully enjoy the tour and surrounding area. It’s a wonderful way to connect with Phoenix’s past while enjoying its present.
Explore Papago Park
Papago Park is a true gem in Phoenix. This 1,500-acre desert park offers plenty of outdoor fun for everyone.
The park’s famous red sandstone formations make it a photographer’s dream spot. Hole-in-the-Rock is the most popular formation, with a large opening that frames amazing city views.
You can explore miles of hiking and biking trails that wind through the desert landscape. These paths are suitable for all skill levels, so don’t worry if you’re a beginner.
Bring your fishing rod to one of the park’s lagoons. They’re stocked with fish and provide a peaceful setting for a relaxing afternoon.
The Desert Botanical Garden is located within the park boundaries. Here you can see thousands of desert plants and learn about the unique ecosystem.
Phoenix Zoo is also part of Papago Park. It’s home to over 3,000 animals and makes for a great family outing.
Pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the many ramadas with beautiful desert views. The park has plenty of shaded areas perfect for a break from your adventures.
Check out Roosevelt Row Arts District
Roosevelt Row, or “RoRo” as locals call it, is Phoenix’s vibrant arts district. You’ll find it in downtown Phoenix, packed with colorful murals, art galleries, and unique shops.
First Friday Art Walks are a must-see event here. On the first Friday of each month, the district comes alive with thousands of visitors exploring art exhibitions and street performances.
The area’s walls serve as canvases for local artists. You can spot impressive murals around every corner, making for perfect photo opportunities and an outdoor gallery experience.
Local boutiques and vintage shops offer one-of-a-kind items you won’t find elsewhere. Browse through handmade jewelry, clothing, and art pieces created by Arizona artists.
Food lovers will appreciate the diverse dining options. From food trucks to upscale restaurants, Roosevelt Row offers flavors to satisfy any craving.
The district also hosts markets and festivals throughout the year. These events showcase local talent and bring the community together in celebration of creativity.
Whether you’re an art enthusiast or just looking for a lively neighborhood to explore, Roosevelt Row offers a unique glimpse into Phoenix’s creative spirit.
Experience Butterfly Wonderland
Butterfly Wonderland in Scottsdale is one of the largest indoor butterfly pavilions in America. You’ll walk through a rainforest environment with thousands of butterflies flying freely around you.
The magic begins in the butterfly emergence gallery. Here you can witness butterflies hatching from their chrysalises and drying their wings before release into the main atrium.
Beyond butterflies, you’ll find other fascinating exhibits featuring honeybees, reptiles, and aquatic animals. The rainforest reptile exhibit showcases colorful frogs, lizards, and other creatures from tropical habitats.
Kids and adults alike will enjoy the 3D theater showing educational films about butterfly migration and life cycles. The gift shop offers butterfly-themed souvenirs to remember your visit.
Plan to spend about 1-2 hours exploring all the exhibits. The temperature inside stays tropical at around 80°F with high humidity to keep the butterflies happy, so dress comfortably.
For the perfect photo opportunity, wear bright colors! Butterflies are attracted to reds, oranges, and pinks, increasing your chances of having these delicate creatures land on you.
Enjoy South Mountain Park and Preserve
South Mountain Park and Preserve is one of the largest city parks in the United States. With over 16,000 acres of desert landscape, it’s a perfect escape from the busy city life.
You’ll find more than 50 miles of trails for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. The trails range from easy to challenging, making them suitable for all skill levels.
The park offers stunning views of Phoenix and the surrounding valley. Dobbins Lookout, the highest accessible point in the park, provides a spectacular panorama that’s especially beautiful at sunset.
Wildlife lovers will enjoy spotting desert creatures in their natural habitat. Keep your eyes open for roadrunners, coyotes, and various desert birds.
Don’t miss the ancient petroglyphs created by the Hohokam people hundreds of years ago. These rock carvings offer a glimpse into the area’s rich cultural history.
The park is open from 5 AM until 7 PM, giving you plenty of time to explore. Remember to bring water, wear sunscreen, and stick to marked trails during your visit.
Visit the Arizona Science Center
The Arizona Science Center is a must-visit attraction in downtown Phoenix. With over 300 interactive exhibits, it makes science fun and accessible for visitors of all ages.
You can explore different galleries covering topics like physics, biology, and astronomy. The center’s hands-on approach lets you conduct experiments and see scientific principles in action.
Don’t miss the Dorrance Planetarium where you can journey through space and watch stunning sky shows. The five-story giant-screen theater also offers immersive documentary experiences.
Kids especially love the “All About You” gallery that explores human biology. You can walk through a giant stomach or learn how your heart works through interactive displays.
The center regularly hosts special exhibitions that change throughout the year. Check their calendar before your visit to see what’s currently featured.
Plan to spend about 2-3 hours exploring the Science Center. It’s located in Heritage and Science Park, making it easy to combine with other downtown attractions.
Tickets are reasonably priced, and the center offers discounts for children, seniors, and military personnel. Consider purchasing tickets online to avoid lines during busy times.
Catch a performance at the Orpheum Theatre
The Orpheum Theatre is a dazzling historic venue in downtown Phoenix. Built in 1929, this beautifully restored Spanish Baroque-style theater offers a magical setting for entertainment.
You’ll be amazed by the stunning architecture featuring intricate details, gold leaf decorations, and a ceiling that resembles a starry night sky. The theater was carefully restored to its original glory in the 1990s after years of neglect.
Today, the Orpheum hosts Broadway shows, musical performances, comedy acts, and cultural events. You can check their website for upcoming performances during your visit.
The acoustics in this intimate theater are excellent, making it perfect for enjoying live performances. You’ll appreciate how even seats in the back provide good views of the stage.
Arriving early gives you time to admire the lobby’s ornate details and grand staircase. The theater is located at 203 W Adams Street, within walking distance of other downtown attractions.
Many visitors consider the Orpheum a hidden gem in Phoenix’s cultural scene. You might even want to take one of their guided tours to learn more about the building’s fascinating history.
Walk along the Salt River
The Salt River offers a peaceful escape from the city buzz. You can stroll along its banks and enjoy stunning desert landscapes just minutes from downtown Phoenix.
During your walk, you might spot wild horses roaming freely near the water. These majestic animals are a highlight for many visitors and make for amazing photo opportunities.
The river area has several easy trails that follow the waterway. Bring comfortable shoes and plenty of water, especially during hot months.
Morning visits provide cooler temperatures and better chances to see wildlife. You’ll likely encounter birds, small mammals, and possibly those famous wild horses during quieter hours.
Recreation areas like Butcher Jones and Blue Point offer access points with parking and basic facilities. Some spots have picnic tables where you can rest and enjoy the scenery.
Consider joining a guided nature walk to learn about the local ecosystem. Rangers and local guides often share interesting facts about the river’s history and importance to Arizona.
Try a hot air balloon ride
Phoenix offers amazing hot air balloon rides that let you see the city and desert from high up in the sky. You can float peacefully above the Sonoran Desert and enjoy breathtaking views of mountains, cactus forests, and wildlife.
Most balloon companies offer flights at sunrise when the air is calmest and the desert glows with morning light. Some also provide sunset rides that showcase Phoenix’s colorful evening skies.
Your balloon adventure typically lasts about three hours, though you’ll spend 60-90 minutes actually flying. Many tours include a light breakfast or champagne toast after landing to celebrate your flight.
The pilots are knowledgeable about the area and will point out interesting sights as you drift along. You might spot rabbits, coyotes, or deer running below your balloon.
The experience is gentle and smooth, so don’t worry if you’ve never been in a hot air balloon before. It’s appropriate for most ages and fitness levels.
Remember to bring your camera to capture the incredible desert landscape stretching to the horizon. This peaceful adventure offers a unique perspective of Phoenix you can’t get any other way.
Experience Old Town Scottsdale
Just a short drive from Phoenix, Old Town Scottsdale offers a unique blend of Western charm and modern attractions. You’ll find yourself surrounded by art galleries, boutique shops, and restaurants in this walkable district.
Start your visit by exploring the many art galleries showcasing Southwestern pieces. The area is famous for its Thursday night ArtWalk, where galleries stay open late and often serve refreshments.
Shopping enthusiasts will love the mix of stores selling everything from authentic Native American jewelry to trendy fashion. The historic buildings housing these shops add to the area’s distinctive character.
When hunger strikes, you have plenty of options from casual cafes to upscale restaurants. Many feature outdoor patios perfect for people-watching while you enjoy your meal.
Don’t miss the Scottsdale Museum of the West if you’re interested in learning about the region’s history. It houses an impressive collection of Western art and artifacts.
The area comes alive at night with numerous bars and entertainment venues. You can enjoy live music, craft cocktails, or even join a pub crawl to experience multiple spots in one evening.
Cultural Insights
Phoenix offers a rich cultural tapestry woven from Native American traditions, Mexican influences, and a thriving contemporary art scene. These diverse elements create a unique cultural landscape that visitors can explore through museums, festivals, and local neighborhoods.
Native American Heritage
The Phoenix area sits on traditional lands of the Hohokam people, who created elaborate canal systems over 1,000 years ago. These ancient waterways formed the foundation for modern Phoenix.
You can explore this rich heritage at the Heard Museum, which houses one of the finest collections of Native American art and artifacts in the country. The museum’s exhibits tell powerful stories of tribal communities through traditional and contemporary artwork.
Annual events like the Heard Museum Guild Indian Fair & Market bring together artists from over 100 tribes. This colorful gathering features traditional dances, music, and handcrafted items.
Don’t miss Pueblo Grande Museum, an archaeological site preserving Hohokam ruins right in the heart of the city. You can walk through ancient structures and learn how these early engineers mastered desert living.
Influence of Mexican Culture
Mexican culture adds vibrant flavor to Phoenix’s identity through food, art, and celebrations. The historic barrios of South Phoenix and areas like Calle 16 showcase colorful murals depicting Mexican cultural themes.
You’ll find authentic Mexican cuisine throughout the city, from family-run taquerias to upscale restaurants putting modern spins on traditional dishes. Local favorites include Barrio Café and Carolina’s Mexican Food.
Cinco de Mayo and Día de los Muertos celebrations transform parts of the city with parades, music, and traditional foods. The Desert Botanical Garden hosts a spectacular Día de los Muertos event featuring ofrendas (altars) and nighttime illuminations.
The Musical Instrument Museum features a fascinating collection of Mexican instruments, showing how music crosses cultural boundaries.
Art Scene and Local Artists
Phoenix boasts a dynamic art scene centered in the Roosevelt Row Arts District. This walkable neighborhood features colorful murals, independent galleries, and monthly First Friday art walks that draw thousands of visitors.
Local artists draw inspiration from the desert landscape, cultural diversity, and urban experiences. You’ll find their work displayed in spaces like Modified Arts and the Phoenix Art Museum.
The Artlink First Friday tours provide easy access to dozens of galleries and studios. Many artists open their workspaces, letting you see their creative process firsthand.
Public art brightens the city with installations like the giant desert flower sculptures at Margaret T. Hance Park. The light rail system also features artistic elements at many stations, turning your commute into a cultural experience.
Exploring Natural Beauty
Phoenix offers incredible access to some of the Southwest’s most stunning natural landscapes. The city sits within the breathtaking Sonoran Desert, providing visitors with unique opportunities to experience rare plants, wildlife, and dramatic landscapes just minutes from downtown.
Sonoran Desert Ecosystem
The Sonoran Desert surrounding Phoenix is unlike any other desert ecosystem on Earth. It’s the wettest desert in North America, receiving about 10 inches of rainfall annually. This creates an environment where plants thrive in surprising abundance.
You’ll be amazed by the Desert Botanical Garden, which showcases over 50,000 desert plants along five thematic trails. The garden offers guided tours where you can learn about desert adaptation and conservation efforts.
For a more immersive experience, visit the McDowell Sonoran Preserve with over 30,500 acres of protected desert habitat. Here you can explore numerous trails that wind through pristine desert landscapes.
Unique Flora and Fauna
The Phoenix area is home to fascinating plant and animal species you won’t find elsewhere. The iconic saguaro cactus, which can grow up to 60 feet tall and live for 200 years, dots the landscape throughout the region.
Look for wildlife like roadrunners, coyotes, javelinas, and even the elusive Gila monster. Bird watchers will enjoy spotting over 350 species, including hawks, owls, and hummingbirds.
Spring brings spectacular wildflower blooms, transforming the desert into a colorful paradise. The best viewing spots include:
- Lost Dutchman State Park
- Usery Mountain Regional Park
- South Mountain Park and Preserve
Best Hiking Trails
Phoenix has some of the best urban hiking in America. There are over 200 miles of trails within city limits. Camelback Mountain offers challenging hikes with breathtaking views of the city. The Echo Canyon and Cholla trails are popular routes, but go early to avoid heat and crowds.
Piestewa Peak provides another excellent summit hike with panoramic vistas. The 1.2-mile trail gains 1,200 feet in elevation, making it a good workout.
For easier options, try South Mountain Park’s Desert Classic Trail or Papago Park’s Hole-in-the-Rock path. Both offer gentle terrain suitable for families and beginners.
Always bring plenty of water. You should have at least 1 liter per hour of hiking. Also, wear sun protection and hike early morning or evening during summer months to avoid dangerous heat.