Things to do in Phoenix

Phoenix, the capital city of Arizona, is known for its year-round sun and warm temperatures. It offers a unique blend of natural beauty, rich Native American history, vibrant arts scenes, and modern urban attractions. The city is surrounded by stunning desert landscapes and mountain ranges, making it a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts and culture seekers alike.

Phoenix's neighborhoods range from historic districts to bustling downtown areas, each offering distinct experiences. Visitors can explore Native American heritage, enjoy world-class museums, relax in beautiful parks, or indulge in diverse culinary delights.

Desert Botanical Garden

The Desert Botanical Garden showcases a stunning collection of desert plants from around the world, with a focus on the Sonoran Desert. Visitors can explore themed trails, seasonal exhibits, and educational programs that highlight the beauty and importance of desert ecosystems.

The garden is a peaceful oasis in the city, offering opportunities for photography, guided tours, and special events such as butterfly exhibits and night-time garden walks.

Heard Museum

The Heard Museum is renowned for its extensive collection of Native American art and artifacts, particularly those of the Southwest tribes. It offers exhibits on traditional and contemporary Native American culture, including pottery, jewelry, textiles, and paintings.

The museum also hosts cultural events, performances, and educational programs that provide deeper insight into Native American heritage and contemporary issues.

Phoenix Art Museum

The Phoenix Art Museum is the largest art museum in the southwestern United States, featuring a diverse collection of American, Asian, European, Latin American, Western American, modern and contemporary art.

The museum offers rotating exhibitions, film screenings, and educational programs, making it a cultural hub for art lovers in Phoenix.

Camelback Mountain

Camelback Mountain is a popular hiking destination offering challenging trails and panoramic views of the Phoenix metropolitan area. The mountain's distinctive shape resembles a camel's hump, making it a recognizable landmark.

Hiking to the summit provides rewarding vistas and a chance to experience the Sonoran Desert landscape up close. It is recommended for experienced hikers due to its steep and rocky terrain.

South Mountain Park and Preserve

South Mountain Park and Preserve is one of the largest municipal parks in the United States, offering extensive hiking, biking, and horseback riding trails. The park features scenic overlooks, desert flora and fauna, and historic sites such as the Desert Classic Trail.

Visitors can enjoy outdoor activities, picnicking, and stunning sunset views over the city and surrounding desert.

Arizona Science Center

The Arizona Science Center provides interactive exhibits and hands-on activities focused on science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM). It features a planetarium, live demonstrations, and special exhibitions suitable for all ages.

The center aims to inspire curiosity and learning through engaging displays and educational programs.

Roosevelt Row Arts District

Roosevelt Row is a vibrant arts district in downtown Phoenix known for its colorful street art, galleries, and creative community. It hosts monthly art walks, live music, and cultural events that celebrate local artists and makers.

The area is also home to trendy cafes, restaurants, and boutique shops, making it a lively destination for visitors seeking an urban cultural experience.

Musical Instrument Museum

The Musical Instrument Museum (MIM) features a vast collection of musical instruments from around the world, showcasing the diversity of global music cultures. Visitors can see, hear, and learn about instruments through interactive exhibits and live performances.

MIM offers a unique experience for music lovers and families, highlighting the universal language of music across cultures.

Papago Park

Papago Park is a scenic desert park known for its distinctive red sandstone formations, hiking trails, and recreational facilities. It is home to attractions such as the Phoenix Zoo and the Desert Botanical Garden.

The park offers picnic areas, fishing lagoons, and easy trails suitable for families and casual hikers.

Phoenix Zoo

The Phoenix Zoo is one of the largest non-profit zoos in the United States, featuring over 1,400 animals including endangered species. It offers educational programs, interactive exhibits, and special events focused on wildlife conservation.

The zoo is a popular family destination with opportunities to see animals from around the world and participate in hands-on experiences.