Phoenix 2026: Complete Tourist Locality Guide to Arizona's Valley of the Sun
Welcome to Phoenix, Arizona's sprawling desert metropolis where over 300 days of sunshine a year create the perfect backdrop for outdoor adventures, cultural exploration, and urban discovery. As the nation's fifth-largest city, Phoenix offers a unique blend of ancient Sonoran Desert landscapes, innovative cuisine, world-class resorts, and exciting new attractions opening throughout 2026.
Whether you're hiking iconic red-rock peaks at sunrise, exploring Native American heritage, teeing off at championship golf courses, or experiencing the vibrant arts scene in Roosevelt Row, Phoenix delivers an authentic Southwest experience unlike anywhere else. This comprehensive guide reveals everything you need to know about visiting Phoenix in 2026, from must-see attractions to emerging neighborhoods, dining hotspots to outdoor adventures.
Table of Contents
- Best Times to Visit Phoenix
- Top Phoenix Neighborhoods & Districts
- Must-See Attractions & Landmarks
- Outdoor Adventures & Hiking
- New Attractions Opening in 2025-2026
- Cultural Experiences & Museums
- Dining & Culinary Scene
- Where to Stay
- Getting Around Phoenix
- Day Trips from Phoenix
- Budget Travel Tips
- Safety & Practical Information
Best Times to Visit Phoenix in 2026
Winter (December-February) is arguably one of the best times to visit Phoenix, with relatively cool temperatures providing excellent conditions for hiking and other outdoor activities, with holiday celebrations as a bonus. Mornings and nights are chilly, but most days you're met with sunshine, bright blue skies and 60-70°F (15-21°C) temperatures.
Spring (March-May) brings perfect weather and major events. In February, the WM Phoenix Open, Scottsdale's signature PGA Tour event known as "The Greatest Show on Grass," attracts golf fans and partiers alike, rolling right into Major League Baseball's Cactus League spring training, which runs mid-February through the end of March. Spring is a particularly good time to visit the Desert Botanical Garden, as the plants come to life and bloom in an array of colors.
Summer (June-August) challenges visitors with intense heat, requiring strategic planning. The Summer months can be brutally hot so make sure you stay hydrated and plan plenty of indoor activities. Smart travelers schedule outdoor adventures for early morning hours and save afternoon time for air-conditioned museums, resort pools, and indoor entertainment.
Fall (September-November) offers cooling temperatures and fewer crowds, with comfortable weather returning as peak season approaches. This shoulder season provides excellent value on accommodations while maintaining pleasant exploration conditions.
Pro tip: If your travel dates to Phoenix are flexible, consider scheduling your trip around the first Friday of the month to check out First Friday, a monthly art walk in downtown Phoenix's Roosevelt Row.
Top Phoenix Neighborhoods & Districts to Explore
Downtown Phoenix
Begin your introduction to the Valley of the Sun with a visit to downtown Phoenix, home to some of the city's top attractions, including the Phoenix Art Museum, The Square PHX and the Heard Museum. The downtown core pulses with energy during sports events, concerts, and First Friday celebrations.
On game days, downtown Phoenix swells with sports fans who overflow into restaurants and bars near the stadiums. The light rail stops right outside Chase Field, home of the MLB's Arizona Diamondbacks and just a few steps away from Footprint Center, the home of the NBA's Phoenix Suns, the WNBA's Phoenix Mercury and the IFL's Arizona Rattlers.
Downtown is one of the best places to stay in Phoenix for families, near the Arizona Science Center, the Children's Museum of Phoenix and other kid-friendly attractions, plus casual dining and spots for a daily ice cream fix.
Roosevelt Row Arts District
Phoenix's creative heartbeat thrives in Roosevelt Row. The Roosevelt Arts District is a vibrant, walkable neighborhood of Phoenix that's the heart of the city's creative scene, with galleries, performance venues, studios, and amazing, colorful street art.
Visit the Roosevelt Arts District on the First Friday of the month from 6pm to 10pm when the area hosts one of the country's largest self-guided art walks, and local galleries open their doors to the public. This self-guided night stroll fills several blocks with art displays, live music, food trucks and vendors.
Walking between restaurants and venues downtown is a creative experience of its own, with large-scale murals and mid-century architecture on view in all directions.
Must-visit spots: The Churchill (a courtyard housing multiple bars and food stands), Arizona Wilderness brewery, Greenwood Brewing.
Old Town Scottsdale
Just beyond Phoenix proper lies Old Town Scottsdale, a premier destination for upscale dining, art galleries, and nightlife. Old Town Scottsdale features unique shops housed in buildings with Western-style covered walkways selling a variety of trinkets and other goods, with some of the city's finest galleries featuring spectacular work by famous artists just up the street from the kitschy shops.
Old Town also has a good selection of restaurants, some with delightful patio seating, perfect for people-watching, and the area is easily walkable at the intersection of East Main Street and North Scottsdale Road.
When you want to take your night up another notch, Old Town Scottsdale is the place to go with access to luxury dining, countless bars and clubs, and – if you're lucky – a Sonoran hot dog cart waiting on the sidewalk at night's end.
Biltmore Area & Uptown
The Biltmore Area's upscale hotels and high-fashion shopping make it one of the best places to stay in Phoenix for couples, with unique Phoenix architecture in the century-old Arizona Biltmore hotel, inspired by Frank Lloyd Wright. Here, you're near Piestewa Peak Park for energetic hikes and amazing views across the Phoenix Valley.
This sophisticated neighborhood balances luxury resort experiences with accessible outdoor recreation, making it ideal for travelers seeking both pampering and adventure.
Papago Park Area
Just minutes from downtown is iconic Papago Park, home to red rock buttes looped with trails, scenic views from the intriguing rock formation atop Hole-in-the-Rock Trail and two of the city's top attractions: Desert Botanical Garden and Phoenix Zoo.
This neighborhood offers concentrated tourist attractions within easy reach, perfect for families and first-time visitors who want to maximize their Phoenix experience without excessive driving.
North Scottsdale & Desert View
The North Scottsdale and Desert View neighborhoods are two of the best places to stay in Phoenix for first-timers, near the Sonoran Desert and Desert Botanical Garden, with more than 20 golf courses, including TPC Scottsdale, home of the Phoenix Open.
These upscale areas showcase Phoenix's resort culture at its finest, with luxury accommodations, spa facilities, and championship golf dominating the landscape.
Must-See Attractions & Landmarks
Desert Botanical Garden ⭐ TOP PICK
The Desert Botanical Garden is one of the top Phoenix attractions with over 50,000 plant displays that showcase the most fascinating cacti, flowers, succulents, and trees of the desert. The 140-acre complex is home to tens of thousands of plants and displays examples of vegetation from deserts around the world.
This is also a good place to spot hummingbirds and butterflies, with designated gardens designed to attract these creatures, and extensive trails wind their way around the property.
Visit timing: It's quite peaceful if you go early in the day on weekends or on weekdays. Spring blooms create spectacular color displays.
Location: 1201 North Galvin Parkway, Phoenix
Why it matters: This attraction perfectly encapsulates Phoenix's unique desert ecosystem, offering education and beauty in equal measure.
Musical Instrument Museum
Touring the Musical Instrument Museum is one of the more unique things to do in Phoenix, featuring a collection of over 15,000 instruments that allows you to admire and listen to interesting instruments from every corner of the world, throughout all periods of history.
The Musical Instruments Museum is one of the largest of its kind in the world, with a collection of more than 8,000 instruments from almost 200 countries, and the layout of the museum is incredibly engaging – you do not have to be a musician to enjoy this place.
The Musical Instrument Museum (MIM) tunes you into thousands of instrument sounds with a headset that syncs seamlessly as you move through its galleries, and hosts more than 200 international acts at MIM Music Theater.
Location: 2301 North Central Avenue, Phoenix
Experience: Interactive headsets automatically play corresponding music as you approach each display – a technological marvel that enhances the museum experience immeasurably.
Heard Museum
The Heard Museum is among downtown Phoenix's top attractions, offering profound insights into Native American culture. Visit the internationally renowned Heard Museum for an in-depth look at Native American history.
The museum showcases traditional artworks, contemporary creations, live events, and world-class collections that honor the indigenous peoples of the Southwest. For travelers seeking cultural depth and authentic understanding of the region's original inhabitants, the Heard Museum delivers an essential educational experience.
Pro tip: If you're short on time, go self-guided (bring your headphones to enjoy audio narratives) and start with "HOME: Native People in the Southwest".
Phoenix Art Museum
The Phoenix Art Museum is the largest art museum in the Southwest United States. It's approachable, with clear labels and a mix of contemporary, Western, fashion and photography that makes meandering around easy.
If you're traveling with kids, take advantage of the museum's youth-oriented activities; you can pick up a guide for navigating the museum with kids (which includes a scavenger hunt) at the front desk.
Location: 1625 North Central Avenue
Time needed: 2-3 hours for a thorough visit
S'edav Va'aki Museum (Pueblo Grande)
History and archaeology buffs should put a trip to S'edav Va'aki Museum, a National Historic Landmark and the largest preserved archaeological site within Phoenix, at the top of their list, featuring the ruins of an ancient Hohokam village, which was occupied for more than 1,000 years until around A.D. 1450.
This site tells the story of the Hohokam people, who created canals that fed a civilization for more than a thousand years. Walking among these ancient ruins provides tangible connection to the sophisticated irrigation engineers who thrived in this desert long before modern Phoenix existed.
Location: 4619 East Washington Street
Taliesin West
Frank Lloyd Wright's winter home and architectural laboratory stands as a testament to organic architecture principles. Travelers frequently mention Frank Lloyd Wright's Taliesin West as a must-visit site for those interested in architecture, offering a look into Wright's innovative design philosophies.
The site showcases how Wright integrated buildings with their desert surroundings, using local materials and responding to the harsh climate with innovative design solutions. Architecture enthusiasts consider this a pilgrimage site.
Phoenix Zoo
Since 1962, the Phoenix Zoo has inspired and motivated guests from across the world to care for the natural world, nestled on 125 acres. Visitors can experience the largest privately owned, non-profit zoo in the United States, a favorite among Arizona residents, and the property has since become a staple of animal conservation for the state.
Families particularly appreciate special seasonal events. Posts mention the ZooLights at the Phoenix Zoo and holiday events at the Desert Botanical Garden as must-see attractions during the holiday season.
Tickets: $37.95 for adults and $27.95 for children
Arizona Science Center
The area is home to the Arizona Science Center, featuring more than 350 hands-on exhibits. Three hours covers the core galleries, plus extra time if you add a Dorrance DOME Planetarium show or a traveling exhibit.
It's designed for families, but curious adults will find plenty to tinker with and learn. This makes it perfect for multi-generational travel groups where everyone from toddlers to grandparents can find engaging activities.
Children's Museum of Phoenix
The Phoenix Children's Museum opened in 2008 and has been going strong ever since, now one of the city's most popular family attractions. Interactive play areas allow children to explore through hands-on activities covering art, building, grocery shopping simulations, and dedicated toddler spaces.
Parents consistently praise this museum for keeping children engaged for hours while providing educational value disguised as pure fun.
Outdoor Adventures & Hiking
Phoenix's dramatic desert landscape offers urban hiking unlike anywhere else in America. Phoenix's warm, dry climate attracts sun lovers and those looking to escape the snow and cold during the winter months, and many people come here simply to enjoy the outdoors, with golfing, hiking, biking, camping, and climbing.
Camelback Mountain ⭐ ICONIC HIKE
Urban summit hikes at Camelback Mountain and Piestewa Peak are grinding natural stair steppers best tackled by experience hikers. Start your day off by leaving your hotel early in the morning and going on a sunrise hike at Camelback Mountain – park at the Echo Canyon Trailhead and hike the moderate-hard 2.5 mile trail for beautiful views overlooking the city with desert mountains surrounding it; this hike is steep in some areas and typically takes about two hours to complete.
Two trail options:
- Echo Canyon Trail: Steeper, more direct route with incredible views
- Cholla Trail: Slightly longer, somewhat less intense alternative
Essential tips: Camelback is one of the most popular urban hiking spots in Phoenix, so expect trail traffic and consider hiking on weekdays; during hot-weather months, hike in the early morning and drink plenty of water.
Why it's special: You're hiking within city limits with urban development visible below, yet feeling completely immersed in raw desert wilderness – this juxtaposition defines Phoenix's unique character.
South Mountain Park & Preserve
This, the largest municipal park in the world, is a popular hiking, biking and horseback riding trail area. Boasting 50 miles of trails through 16,000 acres of the Sonoran Desert, this municipal park is perfectly suited for outdoor adventure just minutes from the city.
The skyline views and Sonoran Desert flora aren't the park's only perks – keep a lookout for ancient petroglyphs carved into the rocks. If you'd rather drive than hike, hop on the 5.5-mile Summit Road up to Dobbins Lookout, the highest accessible point in the preserve.
Best for: Families and less experienced hikers who want desert scenery without extreme difficulty, plus photographers seeking sunset panoramas.
Papago Park
One of the best things to do in Phoenix is to visit Papago Park where visitors can hike through rocky terrain, getting some of the best views in the city, and this public area allows visitors and residents to enjoy the desert sun together, making it a more authentic experience in the valley.
Hole-in-the-Rock Trail: Enjoy breathtaking views from the top of this unusual rock formation in Phoenix's Papago Park after an easy 10-minute hike from the parking lot; drop by right before sunset for milder temperatures.
Choose Papago Park's easy Hole-in-the-Rock Trail for outstanding views – perfect for families with young children or visitors with mobility considerations.
Piestewa Peak
Urban summit hikes at Camelback Mountain and Piestewa Peak are grinding natural stair steppers best tackled by experience hikers, though other summits in Phoenix Mountains Preserve have the same inspiring metro views but without the steep elevation gains.
This peak offers a challenging workout with rewarding 360-degree views of the entire Valley. Local fitness enthusiasts treat this as their outdoor gym, creating a community atmosphere on the trails.
North Mountain Preserve
North Mountain Preserve is a popular recreational area with all kinds of hiking trails; North Mountain stands at an elevation of 2,104 feet, and Shaw Butte, the tallest mountain in the preserve, stands at 2,149 feet – together, these mountains are a landmark feature in Phoenix.
The more advanced hiking trails in the preserve lead to the summit, but easier hikes offer access to all levels of abilities, and this is a lovely way to experience the local flora and fauna, including saguaro cactus.
Be sure to stop in at the North Mountain Visitors Center to get the latest updates on the trails, learn about the local history, get some insight on the flora and fauna, and top up your water bottles.
Water Activities
Visitors can also find water activities on the Salt River and refreshing lakes surrounding the metro area. If you're not staying at a resort with a pool, head to the Lower Salt River for a leisurely tube float.
Summer tubing on the Salt River provides refreshing relief from intense heat while floating past stunning desert canyon walls. This quintessential Phoenix experience combines outdoor adventure with cooling water – the perfect summer compromise.
Golf
For outdoor adventures more buttoned-up, the metro area has more than 100 golf courses open year-round, many at destination resorts in Phoenix. Golfers are drawn to 100+ courses and the PGA Phoenix Open.
Top courses include TPC Scottsdale, Troon North Golf Club, and Grayhawk Golf Club. Half the MLB teams spend March getting in form at excellent stadiums that amp up the fan experience during Spring Training in Phoenix.
Budget consideration: Golf is not really an activity for budget travelers – if you plan to golf, make sure you allow a bigger travel budget for Phoenix; TPC Scottsdale prices start at $199.
New Attractions Opening in 2025-2026
Phoenix continues evolving as a major tourist destination with several exciting additions opening throughout 2025 and 2026:
VAI Resort (Opening 2025)
Set to phase open in 2025, VAI Resort promises to redefine the concept of a luxury hotel resort with an impressive 1,100 rooms, suites, and villas, 12 signature restaurants, a premium spa, a nightclub, theater, and curated retail; visitors will also be able to toast at the 130-foot-high Konos Sky Bar, find thrills at Mattel Adventure Park, and catch show-stopping entertainment at the 11,000-seater VAI Amphitheater.
This mega-resort represents Phoenix's ambition to compete with Las Vegas for convention and entertainment tourism, creating a self-contained destination within the destination.
Mattel Adventure Park (Opening 2025)
Arizona's first themed indoor/outdoor amusement park, Mattel Adventure Park, is slated to open in 2025, welcoming guests 365 days a year and bringing to life iconic Mattel toy franchises, immersing guests in both childhood nostalgia and epic thrills; two fully themed Hot Wheels roller coasters and a life-sized Barbie Beach House are among the highlights coming to the park.
Families with children will find this particularly appealing, as it provides year-round theme park experiences designed to withstand Phoenix's extreme summer heat through its indoor/outdoor hybrid design.
Pure Pickleball (Opening 2026)
Pure Pickleball — set to open in 2026 — will be one of the most extensive pickleball facilities in the world and home to the national governing body, USA Pickleball, hosting 28 oversized indoor courts and a first-of-its-kind Championship Court with a 500-seat stadium.
As pickleball explodes in popularity nationally, Phoenix positions itself as the sport's headquarters, attracting tournaments, training camps, and recreational players from around the globe.
The Rush Funplex (Opening 2026)
The Rush Funplex is all about family fun with thrilling rides, bowling, laser tag, go karts, bumper cars, foam pits, a rock-climbing wall, and classic arcade games; the 75,000 square-foot fully-indoor facility will offer affordable hourly and daily passes that include access to all attractions, with the first Valley location set to open in Goodyear in Q2 2026, and the second in Laveen in December 2026.
This addresses a gap in Phoenix's family entertainment options, providing affordable, air-conditioned fun during brutal summer months.
Cactus Surf Park (Opening 2025)
Set to open in 2025, Cactus Surf Park is designed with water conservation and efficiency top of mind, offering a surf lagoon, sand beach, kayak, canoe, and paddle board rentals, yoga classes, a standalone flow surf pool, cabanas, and family play areas; plus, the park will sponsor water safety and conservation education as part of its commitment to sustainability.
Bringing surf culture to the desert demonstrates Phoenix's innovative spirit and commitment to creating unique experiences despite geographical limitations.
International Dark Sky Discovery Center (Opening Fall 2025)
Development is underway at the International Dark Sky Discovery Center, a 22,000-square-foot science facility that will invite visitors to find inspiration in the night sky, providing a variety of educational activities and interactive experiences; the center, set to open fall 2025, will be home to the largest telescope in the Greater Phoenix area and will feature a Hyperspace Planetarium and Night Sky Experience Exhibit Hall.
The desert's clear, dark skies make Phoenix ideal for stargazing, and this center will showcase that natural advantage while educating visitors about astronomy and light pollution.
The Ritz-Carlton Paradise Valley, The Palmeraie
Nestled amid lush, oasis-like gardens overlooking Camelback Mountain, The Ritz-Carlton Paradise Valley, The Palmeraie is the definition of a modern luxury resort.
This new luxury addition elevates Phoenix's already impressive resort portfolio, offering another option for high-end travelers seeking desert elegance.
Cultural Experiences & Performing Arts
Theater & Performance Venues
Symphony Hall is home base for two of the city's top cultural draws — the Phoenix Symphony and Arizona Opera; visitors can also experience top shows at the Herberger Theater Center and Orpheum Theatre downtown and Phoenix Theater in midtown.
Venues like the Orpheum Theater put on musicals, dramas, and dance performances throughout the year; walking through Heard Museum is another of the top things to do in Phoenix.
Enjoy a ballet performance at the ornate Orpheum Theater or catch a concert at the state-of-the-art Comerica Theatre.
Phoenix's performing arts scene rivals cities twice its size, offering everything from Broadway touring productions to intimate indie performances, classical symphony concerts to cutting-edge contemporary dance.
Live Music Scene
Downtown Phoenix hosts concerts year-round at stadiums and intimate music venues that showcase national headliners.
Venues range from massive amphitheaters hosting major touring acts to dive bars featuring local indie bands. The Roosevelt Row area particularly buzzes with live music on First Friday events and weekend nights.
Dining & Culinary Scene
Phoenix has evolved into a serious culinary destination, earning national recognition for innovative chefs and unique Southwestern flavors.
Some of the country's most innovative restaurateurs hone their culinary creations and prowess in Arizona's capital, and the best-known restaurants in Phoenix have racked up regular plaudits from national newspapers and magazines and nominations from the James Beard Foundation.
Must-Try Restaurants
Pizzeria Bianco: A restaurant in downtown's Heritage Square is making history: Pizzeria Bianco (heralded as the best pizza in the nation) is James Beard Award winner. This legendary pizzeria draws lines around the block, and for good reason – simple ingredients transformed into transcendent pizza.
The Churchill: The Churchill is not to be missed – this shaded courtyard houses multiple bars, food stands and locally owned shops; settle in with a pint and play a round of corn hole while you wait for your food, or head to the balcony for city views; the cherry on top: it's dog-friendly.
Roosevelt Row Breweries: Arizona Wilderness and Greenwood Brewing are two favorites for their tasty local beer and welcoming patio spaces.
Dining with a View
Wrigley Mansion is a 1931 fine-dining and special event venue offering unbeatable 360-degree views and award-winning cuisine & wine list.
Dining at this historic mansion provides both culinary excellence and sweeping valley vistas, combining Phoenix's history with contemporary sophistication.
Patio Dining Culture
Check out some of Phoenix's best tourist favorite eateries or take in the outdoors with these best restaurants with patios.
Phoenix's perfect winter weather makes patio dining practically mandatory. Restaurants design elaborate outdoor spaces with misters for summer heat management, creating comfortable al fresco experiences even in challenging conditions.
Culinary Diversity
Indulge in flavorful experiences that transcend borders – Phoenix's proximity to Mexico ensures authentic Mexican cuisine throughout the city, while the growing international population brings flavors from around the globe.
Sonoran hot dogs: Don't leave Phoenix without trying this regional specialty – a bacon-wrapped hot dog loaded with beans, onions, tomatoes, jalapeños, mustard, and mayo, typically sold from street carts late at night.
Where to Stay in Phoenix
Luxury Resort Experience
Hotels like the Arizona Biltmore, A Waldorf Astoria Resort, the Hilton Phoenix Resort at the Peak and the JW Marriott Phoenix Desert Ridge Resort & Spa all have top-rated pool complexes.
Lounging by your resort pool is a popular way to beat the heat in Phoenix. Phoenix's resort culture emphasizes elaborate pool complexes, spa facilities, championship golf, and fine dining – self-contained vacation experiences.
Arizona Biltmore: Note the unique Phoenix architecture in the century-old Arizona Biltmore hotel, inspired by Frank Lloyd Wright. This historic property combines architectural significance with modern luxury amenities.
Family-Friendly Options
For families, the Westin Kierland, located in a great area with a variety of amenities, is highly praised.
When the Arizona sun becomes unbearable, there are a variety of indoor attractions perfect for cooling off, including Scottsdale's Great Wolf Lodge, which houses a family-friendly indoor water park.
Boutique & Unique Stays
Some travelers have mentioned The Hermosa Inn and Andaz Scottsdale for a luxurious stay, while the Clarendon in Phoenix offers a more budget-friendly option with a great pool.
Also of interest in this area is the mid-century modern Hotel Valley Ho, an architectural gem with a long history of attracting celebrities.
Downtown Convenience
The yet-to-be named downtown Phoenix hotel plans to welcome guests by the end of 2026.
Staying downtown provides walkable access to attractions, restaurants, sports venues, and the light rail system, making it ideal for visitors without rental cars or those seeking urban energy.
Airport Proximity
For those needing convenient airport access, staying at the Aloft near the 44th and Washington station is recommended, providing easy transportation to the airport via the light rail.
Getting Around Phoenix in 2026
Phoenix is one spectacular suburban sprawl, so be sure to budget for a rental car if you are going to hop around town; grab yours upon touching down at Sky Harbor International, Phoenix's major airport.
It's super handy to have a car for exploring in and around Phoenix; check rental car prices online to find the best deal.
Valley Metro Light Rail
Visitors hop on the Valley Metro to head downtown for professional sports action. The light rail connects downtown Phoenix, Tempe, and Mesa, providing efficient transportation to major attractions, Arizona State University, sporting events, and Sky Harbor Airport.
Best for: Downtown visitors, sports fans, budget travelers, and anyone staying along the light rail corridor.
Rental Cars
Phoenix's sprawling geography makes rental cars practically essential for comprehensive exploration. The Phoenix Metropolitan Area, which includes the cities of Phoenix, Mesa, and Scottsdale, is spread out and covers a large area.
Pro tip: Book early for best rates, especially during peak season (February-March during Spring Training and the Phoenix Open).
Ride-Sharing Services
Uber and Lyft operate throughout the metro area, providing convenient alternatives to rental cars for downtown-focused itineraries or evening outings when you want to enjoy cocktails without driving.
Day Trips from Phoenix
Phoenix's central Arizona location makes it an excellent base for exploring surrounding natural wonders and charming towns.
If you are spending more than just a few days here, you may want to consider doing some day trips from Phoenix to nearby towns and tourist attractions; within easy reach are communities like Sedona, Prescott, and Jerome – if you're up for a big day, you can even do a trip to the Grand Canyon.
Sedona (2 hours north)
Scottsdale neighbors Phoenix and is just a short 25-minute car ride away, with popular Sedona being just 2 hours away. Sedona's red rock formations, New Age vibe, art galleries, and scenic hiking trails make it Arizona's most photographed destination.
Sedona, although a two-hour drive from Phoenix, was recommended for its scenic landscapes and outdoor tours like the Pink Jeep tours, providing adventurous yet non-extreme sports experiences.
Grand Canyon (3.5 hours north)
The Grand Canyon's South Rim is only about 3.5 hours away, making it a great day trip option from Phoenix. While ambitious, this day trip allows you to witness one of the world's natural wonders without changing hotels.
Reality check: This makes for a long day (7+ hours of driving plus time at the Canyon), so consider an overnight stay in Flagstaff or Williams to fully appreciate the experience.
Prescott
Day trips from Phoenix can land you in neighboring areas, such as Prescott and Sedona, in just a few hours. Prescott's cooler mountain climate, historic downtown Whiskey Row, and Victorian architecture provide charming contrast to Phoenix's desert modernity.
Scottsdale
Technically a separate city but immediately adjacent, Scottsdale is also a separate city, yet remains one of the top things to do in Phoenix as it is fewer than 12 miles away; take time for a massage on Resort Row, and visit Old Town Scottsdale for fine restaurants and boutiques.
Chandler
Shopaholics can also indulge in Chandler, which is a suburban city in the greater Phoenix community; aside from a large shopping center, this area also hosts the Chandler Center for the Arts.
Budget Travel Tips for Phoenix
Phoenix offers surprisingly affordable experiences compared to other major U.S. cities, though strategic planning maximizes your dollar.
Phoenix is definitely on the affordable end of the US' major metro areas, but it isn't exactly cheap anymore.
Timing Your Visit
If you want to be in the middle of the action, February-March is the perfect time to visit the Valley for the Phoenix Open and Spring Training; if you're a budget-minded traveler, pounce on flights and hotels as early as possible, or consider bumping your trip to January or April.
Summer (June-August) offers the lowest hotel rates due to extreme heat, but requires careful planning to avoid midday outdoor exposure.
Free & Affordable Activities
From checking out parks to wandering around hip neighborhoods, it's a breeze to discover free things to do in Phoenix; if you need new ideas, ask a local tour guide for some tips.
Free experiences:
- Hiking all mountain preserves (no entrance fees)
- First Friday art walk in Roosevelt Row
- Exploring downtown murals and public art
- Visiting Papago Park's Hole-in-the-Rock (park entry free)
- Walking through Old Town Scottsdale galleries
- Enjoying resort property grounds (even without staying there)
Phoenix Pass Deals
Get access to some of Greater Phoenix's best attractions for a discounted price. Get exclusive offers from restaurants, shops, and attractions straight to your mobile phone.
Investigate Visit Phoenix's official website for attraction bundle passes and seasonal promotions that reduce per-attraction costs.
Recommended Time in Phoenix
3-5 days is a good starting point for exploring Phoenix – it's a pretty big city with lots of different neighborhoods, plus there is SO MUCH nature to explore outside of the city center. Phoenix itself can be explored in one to three days depending on how much you want to pack in each day.
Safety & Practical Information
Outdoor Safety
During hot-weather months, hike in the early morning and drink plenty of water; see our outdoor safety tips page for more info before you head out.
Critical safety considerations:
- Hydration: Carry significantly more water than you think necessary – desert air deceives you about fluid loss
- Sun protection: High-SPF sunscreen, wide-brimmed hats, and sunglasses are non-negotiable
- Timing: Summer hiking should only occur before 10am or after 5pm
- Emergency preparedness: Cell service isn't guaranteed on all trails; tell someone your hiking plans
- Wildlife awareness: Rattlesnakes, scorpions, and Gila monsters exist but rarely cause problems if you watch where you step
Best Time to Visit Summary
Because Phoenix has a hot, arid, desert climate, the cooler months of November through March are the best months to visit – this is when you'll have cooler temperatures that are better for hiking and exploring outdoors.
Temperature expectations:
- November-March: 60-75°F days, perfect outdoor weather
- April-May: 75-95°F, warming but still manageable
- June-September: 100-115°F, extreme heat requiring indoor midday activities
- October: 80-95°F, cooling down, excellent shoulder season
What to Pack
Winter visits: Layers for morning/evening chill, sunscreen, comfortable walking shoes, reusable water bottle, backpack for hiking
Summer visits: Lightest clothing possible, maximum sun protection, cooling towels, electrolyte supplements, indoor activity backup plans
Year-round essentials: Quality sunglasses, moisturizer (extreme dryness), lip balm, camera for spectacular landscapes
Why Phoenix Stands Out as a 2026 Destination
Phoenix offers something increasingly rare among major American cities: authentic character rooted in place. With over 300 days of sunshine a year, it's no wonder Phoenix is known for lifting spirits; both residents and visitors embrace the great weather year-round while taking part in outdoor adventures, from hiking and ATV desert rides to teeing off at world-class golf courses or strolling through the city's unique desert botanical garden.
As you explore this vast metropolis, the fifth-largest in the U.S., you'll feel the city's welcoming energy; Phoenix offers a rich tourism experience, blending historic cowboy culture and Mexican heritage with a vibrant modern scene, filled with creative attractions, dining hot spots, nightlife and professional sports.
The city doesn't try to be anywhere else. It embraces its desert reality, working with extreme climate rather than against it. The result? Resort pools as cultural institutions, sunset hikes as daily rituals, and patio dining eight months a year.
Phoenix rewards the adventurous spirit willing to rise early for sunrise hikes, the curious mind eager to understand ancient Hohokam engineering, the foodie seeking authentic Sonoran flavors, and the art lover discovering Roosevelt Row murals. It offers golf courses for traditionalists and pickleball facilities for trend-followers. World-class museums sit alongside quirky roadside attractions. Five-star resorts neighbor authentic Mexican taquerías.
What Makes 2026 Special
With major new attractions opening throughout 2025-2026, Phoenix positions itself for its next chapter as a premier American destination. An ever-evolving and expanding cityscape, Phoenix is looking to welcome several impressive attractions in the coming year; whether you're seeking adventure at a fun park, outdoor inspiration, or relaxation at a desert oasis, locals and out-of-towners alike will be adding these destinations to the top of their list.
VAI Resort, Mattel Adventure Park, Pure Pickleball, and multiple family entertainment complexes demonstrate Phoenix's commitment to diversifying its tourism appeal beyond traditional desert resort experiences.
Final Thoughts: Your Phoenix Experience
What does your Phoenix look like? Splashing in a resort pool with family? A serene hike through the Sonoran Desert? Maybe dinner and drinks on a downtown date night?
Phoenix accommodates every travel style. Luxury seekers find world-class resorts with championship golf and destination spas. Budget travelers discover free hiking, affordable Mexican food, and summer deals. Families enjoy interactive museums, the zoo, and resort pools. Solo adventurers tackle challenging summit hikes and explore art galleries. Foodies chase James Beard nominees and authentic street tacos. Culture enthusiasts immerse themselves in Native American heritage and contemporary art scenes.
This city is filled with history, delicious food, and exciting outdoor activities – there's really something for everyone to enjoy in Phoenix.
The Sonoran Desert's harsh beauty teaches resilience and adaptation. Phoenix embodies these lessons, creating a thriving metropolis where the mystique of one of the world's lushest landscapes leads you on a path to radiance – push yourself to the top and take in sweeping views, and indulge in flavorful experiences that transcend borders.
Come for the sunshine. Stay for the sunsets. Return for the soul-deep connection to desert landscapes unlike anywhere else on Earth.
Quick Phoenix 2026 Checklist
✅ Book accommodations early if visiting February-March (peak season)
✅ Rent a car for maximum exploration flexibility
✅ Download Visit Phoenix app for deals and attraction discounts
✅ Plan outdoor activities for early morning or evening
✅ Reserve Pizzeria Bianco well in advance
✅ Check First Friday dates if interested in Roosevelt Row art walk
✅ Pack serious sun protection regardless of season
✅ Stay hydrated – double your usual water intake
✅ Layer clothing for winter visits (mornings/evenings cool significantly)
✅ Allow time for spontaneity – Phoenix rewards wanderers
Phoenix awaits with open arms, blazing sunshine, and desert magic. Your Valley of the Sun adventure begins now.