Phoenix, Arizona’s sun-saturated capital, Phoenix, has long been a popular destination for its beautiful weather and outdoor adventure activities. Phoenix has something for everyone, with its luxurious spa, high-end resorts, and upbeat nightlife. Phoenix has something to offer whether you are a solo traveler, a family traveler, a group of friends, or a couple looking for a romantic vacation.
Phoenix also has a vast cultural selection that includes many museums, gardens, zoos, and theme parks in addition to many theatres. If Phoenix draws your attention, here’s a guide to the top attractions and popular Phoenix things to do to get you started. Use this list to assist you with your next and exciting experience in Phoenix.
Are you on your way to Phoenix at the last minute?
Top Accommodations in Phoenix, AZ
- Hampton Inn & Suites Phoenix Downtown
- Hotel Valley Ho
- Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Phoenix
- Renaissance Phoenix Downtown Hotel
- AC Hotel by Marriott Phoenix Downtown
Phoenix Top Experience & Tours
- Hot Air Balloon Flight with Champagne in Phoenix – with a glass of bubbly in hand, gently glide over Arizona’s scenic beauty on this epic hot air balloon flight. When you land, you’ll toast to an unforgettable journey. Phoenix is yours on this adventure.
- Grand Canyon Tour with Stops in Sedona and Oak Creek from Phoenix – a scenic day trip from Phoenix to the Grand Canyon that includes stops in Sedona and Oak Creek. This Arizona experience will take you through the state’s most iconic landscapes in a day.
- Guided Self-Drive ATV/UTV Tour in Phoenix – If you want to drive while exploring Phoenix, book an ATV or UTV tour! Follow guided instructions as you drive through different areas in Phoenix.
- Phoenix Zoo: One Day General Admission Ticket – With a general admission ticket, you can see a variety of exotic animals a daylong visit to the Phoenix Zoo. This attraction is recommended for wildlife fans of all ages.
- Half-Day ATV Tour of Box Canyon and Pinal Mountains – get excited. Dive into Arizona’s natural beauty with a half-day ATV tour of Box Canyon and the Pinal Mountains.
Top Things to Do in Phoenix
1. The Musical Instrument Museum at Phoenix
The Phoenix museum was inaugurated in 2010 in Phoenix and is today the most extensive collection of musical artifacts in the world. The museum has over 15,000 artifacts from over 200 countries, offering a diverse and extensive view of global musical culture. Renting a mazda au Phoenix is a suitable and convenient way to reach the museum. Renting a Toyota at Phoenix allows you to choose not a price car option, as traveling in a premium car will be more pleasant and a better alternative.
Why This Place?
Facilitators and lovers of music will discover something of their taste in this museum. The museum is designed to include many interactive facilities and holds various events, making it a suitable choice for both children and adults of all ages. In the Musical Instrument Museum, visitors can explore the instruments, and meet the sounds, or listen to concerts given in the museum’s theater.
The various educational programs also make the museum more fun. The museum also includes a variety of activities for children, such as playing instruments, singing, and dancing – all of which make the visit a compelling family experience.
Nearby Accommodations
JW Marriott Phoenix Desert Ridge Resort & Spa is located near the museum, where vacationers can lodge for more extended periods.
2. The Desert Botanical Garden in Phoenix
As already mentioned, the Desert Botanical Garden is one of the Phoenix Point of Pride and stretches over 140 acres, including nearly 50,000 plants and 379 buildings that represent endangered species . It is one of the most popular places to see in Phoenix city and offers a unique experience for all visitors. The garden is best visited not only for the flowers but also for the events that make it memorable.
Reasons to Visit
The Desert Botanical Garden is one of the top spots that need to be visited in Phoenix city. This large garden is worth a visit not only because of the various desert flowers to explore but also because of the meaningful events.
What else can be done?
Walk the local trails or go to the Center for Desert Living Trail, an area with various beautiful flowers, or go to the Sonoran Desert Nature Loop Trail overlooking the mountains. Moreover, participate in hands-on activities, visit educative boot camps, or attend a nice dinner called Dinner on the Desert and experience what it’s like to dine in the desert at a fancy hotel.
Hotel Recommendation
Hotel Valley Ho is one of the places to consider as it is the highest-ranked accommodation near the garden.
3. Visit Papago Park: A Gem Close to Downtown Phoenix
Papago Park Is an Exceptional Treasure near Downtown Phoenix Stroll around the vast area — which totals more than 1,200 acres – just around the corner from downtown Phoenix, and you will be astonished by the numerous choices for leisure and relaxation at Papago Park. It is the place to go for anyone who wants to relax in nature without losing the city’s comfort.
Why Visit Papago Park
Visit Papago Park if you desire to unwind in a nature-friendly environment close to the city. The ideal location offers a diverse range of outdoor fun that will appeal to people of all ages and tastes.
What To Do
The park features a variety of activities for every interest. These include historical sites and vegetation categories, a museum, zoo, and other natural beauty. Archery, hiking on the trails of different complexity, biking, picnicking, fishing, and photography are all options. Nearby Accommodations
Nearby Accommodation
To locate the site quickly and simply, book a place at Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Phoenix Airport, AZ. It’s an exciting adventure that should not be skipped or replaced with another. Feel free to go.
4. Wrigley Mansion: Elegance Overlooked
Wrigley Mansion is a restaurant and sightseeing option, housed in an Italian-style mansion built in 1929 in Phoenix. In addition to hosting a restaurant, the mansion operates guided tours throughout the building and provides venues. The mansion is an architectural treasure with breathtaking views and is one of the best destinations for a date.
Why Go There
The Wrigley Mansion is a Phoenix culinary landmark and a visual feast for the eyes. Treating your spouse to a high-quality food and a history lesson is a great way to spend a date’s afternoon.
What is There to Do
The dinner at the mansion offers several gourmet fare and wine combinations. Take a mansion tour and learn individual stories and perhaps some others. The mansion’s vast garden with panoramic views and the richly appointed mansion is a great setting for a date dinner.
Where to Stay
An overnighter at the Arizona Biltmore, Arizona Biltmore, A Waldorf Astoria Resort, a luxurious hotel near the Wrigley Mansion, will round up the mansion’s Gatsby-style facilities.
5. Children’s Museum of Phoenix: A Wonderland for Kids
As an extensive learning environment with more than 300 hands-on exhibits, the Children’s Museum of Phoenix is perfect for children of all age groups.
Why Visit
When it comes to a fun day out with children, the Children’s Museum of Phoenix is an excellent option with a vast array of vividly active fun and learning experiences.
Activities with Children
Children may take part in a variety of active activities such as mazes, climbing the enormous castle tower, and several crafty exercises such as rock painting and gardening. Through play, the museum explores the young visitors’ learning and imagination and encourages creativity.
Recommended Nearby Stay
Convenient and comfortable accommodation is available at the Renaissance Phoenix Downtown Hotel.
6. Adventures at Castles N’ Coasters
Weighing in at 10 acres, the Castles N’ Coasters amusement park offers an assortment of activities. It’s an excellent location to let off steam with family, friends, or a special someone.
Why You Should Visit
The amusement park is complete with everything from daredevil roller coasters and wet flumes to go-kart tracks and a vast video game parlour, making it an excellent place to create memorable experiences.
Explore and Enjoy
You will have a blast on the roller coasters and wet games, duel it out in miniature golf, or chill out in splash parks. Enjoy a variety of activities.
Stay Nearby
The Hyatt Place Phoenix-North is just a few blocks away, providing easy access to lodging.
7. Phoenix Zoo: A Family Adventure
First opened in 1962, the Phoenix Zoo is one of the largest privately owned and non-profit zoos in the country. Covering 125acres, it houses over 1400 animals and is a great family destination.
Why Visit the Phoenix Zoo
Experience wildlife from around the world with fun and interactive educational displays. The zoo facilities include a farm, carousel, and 4-D theater for a truly memorable visit.
Activities at the Zoo
Animal exhibits, events, guided eco-shuttle tours, camel rides, giraffe and stingray feeding, and more, 4-D movies.
Nearby Accommodation
Stay at the Tempe Mission Palms Hotel for easy access to the zoo.
8. Roosevelt Row: The Heart of Phoenix’s Arts District
Roosevelt Row is considered to be downtown Phoenix’s arts district where a walkable area where one can find galleries and eateries, bars, and boutique shops. Most of the goods sold here represent unique local souvenirs as can be found at Phoenix General or MADE Art Boutique.
Try giant pancakes at Matt’s Big Breakfast or tacos at Taco Chelo. Treat yourself to a crafted cold beer at Arizona Wilderness Brewing Co. or a rooftop cocktail at From The Rooftop. Don’t miss the street art along 1 1/2 Street, which has Instagram-worthy colorful murals by Phoenix artists. It is easy to see why this local joint is one of Phoenix’s gems of street art.
9. Old Town Scottsdale: A Paradisel for Arts and Entertainment
Old Town Scottsdale represents a young people”s place that is full of art galleries, shop, and eateries – namely, a mix of culture and entertainment. Therefore, it is perfectly suitable for both adolescents and those who remain young at heart.
Particularly, it is an outstanding place to shop at Scottsdale Fashion Square, enjoy an eclectic selection of dining establishments, and wander through the historical district while learning about the local history and culture. This striking combination of modern comfort and historical sophistication is undoubtedly the top place to visit while enjoying Scottsdale.
Accommodation: Sonesta Suites Scottsdale Gainey Ranch
10. Exploring Phoenix Art Museum
Phoenix Art Museum, established in 1959, is a prime location for a display. Its collection covers art from the Renaissance until now.
Why Visit
With over 18,000 works exhibited in the museum, it is a fantastic place for anyone who enjoys art. Walking through the galleries will feel like traveling through space and time as you see items from Japan, China, Europe, and various mark-made regions of America.
Activities and Events
Milwaukee Art Museum mostly offers regular exhibitions, though it sometimes maintains educational programs, cultural festivals, and live exhibitions that can enhance your experience.
What to Do
Spend quality time at the Phoenix Art Museum while spending time exploring art from different parts of the world and periods. Listening to lectures, watching art films, and participating in workshops is available.
Hotel Recommendation
While in Phoenix, do reside at the Westin Phoenix Downtown It is conveniently located close to the museum.
11. South Mountain Park and Preserve
As reported by the sources, South Mountain Park and Preserve is considered the country’s largest urban park and preserve.
What’s There to Enjoy
This spacious park covers approximately 16,000 acres and is a nice change to a daily routine. People have much time to stay outdoors and explore the wilderness. It is a perfect destination for individuals, who learn from nature while enjoying outdoor activities.
Discover one of the Country’s Grandest Parks
South Mountain Park and Preserve is a fantastic destination for fans of hiking and mountain biking. The park has different in complexity trails and something to offer people with any level of preparation. However, it is critical to be prepared and pack enough gear for all your journeys. The park also has unique opportunities for horseback riding.
Highland Suggested Hotel
GreenTree Inn & Suites Phoenix Sky Harbor is one of the closest accommodations to South Mountain Park and Preserve in Phoenix.
12. Japanese Friendship Garden of Phoenix
Japanese Friendship Garden of Phoenix, located in the city, and also known as Rohō-en, a calm garden oasis with a conventional tea house.
Why Visit
If you’re looking for a bit of Japan in Phoenix, this marvelous garden is one of the city’s must-visit sites. The wonderful panorama pair with the actual Japanese tea house temperament creates an extraordinary environment for the whole family or a date with a loved one.
What to Do
Japanese Friendship Garden of Phoenix might be a good spot for a pleasant day with loved ones or friends, so ensure to bring your phone or digital camera. You should take part in a Tai Chi class, master how to make a proper Ikebana-the Japanese art of flower arrangement, brush up on the Japanese dialect, partake in a Japanese tea ceremony, and join a tour of the garden. For a low price, you may also attempt to learn the skill of Kendo.
Hotel Recommendation
The Hilton Garden Inn Phoenix Downtown could be a good hotel option near the garden.
13. Visit the Orpheum Theater in Phoenix
This theater has become a well-known and cherished meeting ground since opening its doors in 1929. This location comfortably accommodates over 1,300 visitors.
Why Visit
Orpheum Theater is an excellent choice for rainy or cold days, as well as an attractive opportunity to appreciate professional performances. It is a thrilling and cultural environment suitable for families, solo visitors, and dates with friends or lovers.
What to Do
Explore the wide range of shows at the Orpheum Theater and prepare to be enthralled. This facility has some high-status performances covering ballets, operas, Broadway musicals, and theatrical dramas. The proximity of its location to downtown Phoenix also places you nearby some of the city’s best shopping districts and local restaurants.
Hotel Recommendation
The Kimpton Hotel Palomar Phoenix Cityscape would be a good hotel near.
14. Arizona Science Center
The Arizona Science Center is located in downtown Phoenix, Arizona, and houses more than 350 exhibits. It is one of the most popular destinations that attract thousands of visitors every year.
Reason to Visit
The facility offers an affordable destination for professionals to have quality time during their spare time. The Science Center has a collection of handy exhibitions, a theater, a planetarium, and numerous opportunities for everyone to learn or practice. The activity area is suitable for bringing children to experience vast learning opportunities.
Things to Do
There is guided exploration to help visitors understand the various exhibitions, or they can bid their exploration. There are gallery performances in the planetarium, which offer a status and the art of art, while the theater host fun and tough film journeys for all. The center features additional programs such as children’s section rental, plant trips, and film screenings and art and public help.
Hotel Recommendation
The Sheraton Phoenix Downtown is the closest hotel to the Science Center offering outstanding services and an easy-to-go destination.
15. Encanto Park in Phoenix
Encanto Park is a wildlife park located in Phoenix with numerous recreational activities, including the theme park and boathouse.
Reasons to Visit
Central Phoenix Park is the most visited place in Arizona and offers a one-stop location for an ideal day’s fun. The park offers a broad range of schtick for all ages and excellent playgrounds for children. Also, the park’s urban infrastructure includes a pool, fitness hall, lease parking, golf hall, and more.
What to Do
The place offers a range of propositions for visitors. These include fishing, swimming/boating, golf, amusement park trips, and team-building facilities. The joy and play park offer games such as softball / volleyball, basketball, tennis, pickleball, and more.
Hotel Recommendation
The closest hotel is Grand Canyon University Hotel, which is relatively close and offers a seropositive place to stay.
16. Heritage Square in Phoenix
A unique complex, Heritage Square, is one of the major historical attractions in Phoenix, featuring preserved houses and museums dedicated to history and science.
What to see
If people want to experience the 19th century, they should definitely visit Heritage Square. Here, one is able to walk through history with the help of saved Victorian houses, exhibitions, and much else. In general, loving history is a must-visit since one will learn about the whole life of Phoenix.
What to do
One is able to explore the square and visit such sites as the Rosson House Museum, a Victorian house, and representative of the city. Also, there are guided tours, engaging events, local products to buy, and exhibits with historical things to watch. A significant number of restaurants and cafes inside the square will gladly accept people they accompany.
Where to stay
To visit Heritage Square properly, Hilton Garden Inn Phoenix Midtown will provide the full package with the quality service.
17. Alvadora Spa at Royal Palms Hotel
Evidently, my first attraction to the Alvadora Spa is the hotel’s splendid Mediterranean styling, claiming it to be Phoenix’s luxurious wellness getaway. I believe there are myriad luxurious spa destinations in Phoenix, and the Alvadora Spa is one of the most famous and visited. It would be the perfect spot for some personal peace and health that is lavishly equipped to soothe you to the core.
Personalized Experience
The luxurious forest offers tailored spa package facilities the way you want it, ensuring the experience is intimate and according to what some people might be proud to have around them.
Things to Do
The services include the whole body services, a facial sauna, fingernail processes, and a yoga class; Along with the jacuzzi sauna, workout rooms, and swimming, options would be sufficient relaxation for any sauna guest.
Hotel Recommendation
I can conveniently stay at Royal Palms Resort & Spa by Hyatt, a short walk from the sauna.
18. Pueblo Grande Museum in Phoenix
Placed close to Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, Pueblo Grande Museum is an archaeological treasure. It offers exterior sites and ruins that showcase the pre-Columbian past of this part of Arizona, including ancient irrigation canals and a platform mound of other features.
Why Visit
If you are fascinated with the age-old history of Native American civilizations that you can learn more about in Phoenix, Pueblo Grande Museum is a must-visit location. The area where the museum is found was once occupied by thriving indigenous societies.
What to Do
The considered museum is at the top of the list of things to do without spending money in Phoenix. Go to the exterior Pueblo Grande Museum trails to see the adobe compounds, pit houses, agriculture garden, platform mounds, and ball court. Furthermore, while not fully free of charge, entering the museum exterior also lets you visit the museum’s galleries and attend its exhibits. You can count on guided walking and audio tours. Lastly, the venue features a gift shop offering authentic Native American crafts, artwork, and jewelry.
Where to Stay
While there are many accommodation options nearby, Phoenix Marriott Resort Tempe at The Buttes promises an excellent arrangement and comfortable stay.
19. Tovrea Castle in Phoenix
The Tovrea Castle, also known as the “wedding cake house”, is a place of interests of historical heritage and great importance for the uniqueness of Phoenix.
Why You Should Visit
Tovrea Castle can offer you not only incredible views of the local landscapes but also offers the touristic opportunities for people of all ages and interests. It is possible to take a guided tour through the castle and see the diversity of cacti – the nearby garden contains thousands of fashionable plants. Additionally, you can enjoy the night visit to the castle- at night, it is illuminated and looks like a piece of fairyland.
What to Do
Apart from the iconic tour through the castle and admiring the view, you can also take as many photos as possible in that spectacular location. Visiting the garden you will be able to both take aesthetic pleasure and learn about the type and kinds of diverse cacti and succulent plants.Tit Is also possible to see the castle at night, which radiates its light on the surrounding roads, creating a gloomy but enchanting picture.
Hotel Recommendation
It is recommended to stay at Post 1429 Phoenix Tempe ASU which is quite close to this monument of history and mystery.
20. The Heard Museum – Phoenix
In 1929 the privately-owned institution focused on preserving and advancing American Indian art was founded. The museum’s first building was designed by an architect who was a student of the founding couple, the museum’s initial benefactors.
Why Visit
The Heard Museum in Phoenix is definitely one of the must-visit venues in the city. The museum provides an amazing opportunity to experience the diverse range of exhibits and festivals for people of all ages. Furthermore, the museum has its own gift shop and a small cafe.
What to Do
Take an interesting and enlightening tour around the museum and its diverse exhibitions. In addition to the exhibitions inside the building, the museum is surrounded by a beautiful sculpture garden that offers stunning views for photographers. Visitors can also engage in basket weaving, explore a collection of Native dolls during a procession, or experience a yoga session in the museum hall.
Hotel Recommendation
The Fairfield Inn & Suites Phoenix Midtown is highly recommended.
21. Mystery Castle in Phoenix
This creation is a Phoenix Point of Pride and was built in the 1930s at the base of South Mountain Park. In short, any people should take this trip.
Reasons to Go
Mystery Castle is known all over the world primarily because of the history of its creation, which is a loving father’s heart: he wanted to give his daughter a castle. The castle itself attracts attention with its design and decor.
Activities
It is recommended to go to the Mystery Castle and, of course, take a guided tour. You can walk around all the rooms, learn history and take photos. Once you captured a lot of pictures with your beloved ones, it will be accurate to speed them up with an online image resizer. You can adjust colors, and the castle will look even more delightful.
Where to Stay
For those planning to explore this historic site, TheThe best option for staying if you are going to walk around Mystery Castle is The Camby, Autograph Collection, which combines luxury and services.
22. Biltmore Fashion Park in Phoenix
Biltmore Fashion Park is a high-end shopping center that includes departmental stores, retail outlets, luxury fine dining, and fast food outlets.
Why visit
If shopping happens to be the highlight of your day, then the park should be a must-visit in telling you about what happened. Spending the day with a friend may seem more of fantasy than fiction in the park.
Activities
Clothes, accessories, gift items, bags, jewelry, and even furniture among others are just some of the items shopped at the venue. After shopping, you could relax and savor the delightful dishes and cocktails provided in the park’s numerous restaurants and bars.
Hotel Recommendation: AC Hotel Phoenix Biltmore
23. Hall of Flame Fire Museum in Phoenix
The Hall of Flame Fire Museum was established in 1961 and is the biggest museum in the world committed to firefighting. It has an enormous and overwhelmingly fascinating display of firefighting equipment from various parts of the globe and periods.
Why Should You Come Here?
Take your children to the Hall of Flame Fire Museum for an electrifying learning experience. The museum’s sistership displays a collection of firefighting equipment from various eras and places.
What Can You Do Here?
There are four primary galleries at Houston’s Museum, and there is something for everybody, child and adult. Moreover, its regularly updated Hall of Heroes commemorates fallen firefighters. The museum provides the children with several activities, including storytime and the summer junior firefighters’ programme, teaching the children the fundamentals of firefighting.
Hotel Recommendation: MOXY Phoenix Tempe/ASU Area
24. Herberger Theater Center in Phoenix
The Herberger Theater Center has long been one of the leading venues for performing arts, while also making a significant contribution to the development and upbringing of the arts community.
Reasons to go
If you are a fan of the acting and performing arts and are attracted to unique live performances, be sure to visit the Herberger Theater Center in Phoenix. The theater is one of the city’s most notable and presents its original programs that differ in their diversity.
What to do
One of the most exciting places that never stop broadcasting live performances is the Herberger Theater Center. Here, in addition to concerts, such as theater productions, dancing recitals, musicals, comedies, you can often see the screening of classics: “Charlotte’s Web,” “Sweeney Todd,” and “A Christmas Carol.” It’s high time to enjoy your favorite productions.
Hotel Recommendation: Hampton Inn Phoenix-Midtown-Downtown
25. Dreamy Draw Recreation Area in Phoenix
Dreamy Draw Recreation Area is a huge public park that combines a rocky desert and scenes that seem to dream outside.
Why You Should Visit
When it comes to some of the best activities to do in Phoenix’s boundless parks, one of them must be Dreamy Draw Recreation Area. When hiking is your thing, various trails of the park offer different sophistication with great sights.
What to Do
Dreamy Draw Recreation Area trails have awe-inspiring peaks where the landscape blossoms beautifully. Don’t forget to bring your camera because you are going to make some cute wildlife pictures of the area hosting the native kit fox and jackrabbits. You can bring your picnic basket and eat in the picnic areas that provide thrilling views of nature at the park.
Hotel Recommendation: Pointe Hilton Tapatio Cliffs Resort
