15 Best Things to do in Phoenix, Arizona

Planning a trip to Phoenix, Arizona? You’ve found the experts!

With its stunning desert landscapes, vibrant culture, and endless sunshine, Phoenix is so much more than just a stopover—it’s a destination worth exploring. We’ve spent plenty of time in Arizona’s capital, and each visit leaves us with new adventures, whether it’s hiking through the Sonoran Desert, diving into Scottsdale’s thriving food scene, or catching a legendary sunset over Camelback Mountain. 

From outdoor thrills to unique cultural experiences, Phoenix has something for everyone. So, whether it’s your first time here or you’re looking for new things to do, we’ve got you covered with the absolute best experiences this city has to offer!

Phoenix at a Glance

Phoenix is a desert city that surprises a lot of first-time visitors. It’s part outdoor adventure hub, part laid-back urban escape, and knowing a few local tips will make your trip a whole lot smoother.

Important tip: Phoenix heat can be no joke – pack sunscreen, hats, and breathable clothing. Staying hydrated out there is key! 

Visit in the off-season or shoulder season: Wandering around outdoors in the direct heat of Arizona can be dangerous if you’re not prepared or hydrated. We love to visit in October or November for prime outdoor temps. 

Rent a Car: Phoenix has public transportation available, like the Light Rail, which is super helpful when traveling to and from the airport. After that, though, we highly recommend just renting a car to get around. Sights are spread out, and you’ll enjoy the freedom of exploring on your own! 

Bring plenty of water and dress appropriately when adventuring outdoors: It’s best to wear lightweight clothing, hats, and UV-blocking sunglasses when doing any outdoor activities in and around Phoenix. Plan to bring at least a liter of water per hour when out hiking in the desert to stay hydrated! 

How I would spend 3 days in Phoenix

Phoenix is a city that blends rugged desert beauty with a surprisingly vibrant urban vibe. From thrilling desert adventures to a laid-back art scene, it’s got plenty to keep you busy. Based on several trips we’ve taken, this is how we’d spend three days in Phoenix to get the most out of it! 

Day 1: Start your day with an ATV ride through the desert, then grab some lunch in the colorful, muraled neighborhood of Roosevelt Row. Explore Central Avenue and Downtown before heading out on this guided sunset hike and enjoying dinner at Joyride Taco House. 

Day 2: Begin day 2 on the water with this rafting trip on the Salt River. On your way back to Phoenix, stop in Scottsdale for lunch at Original ChopShop before wandering Old Town Scottsdale, Desert Botanical Gardens, and Papago Park. 

Day 3: Venture out to the granddaddy of all canyons with this private Grand Canyon and Sedona tour. It’s a long final day, but it’s well worth it, especially when you wrap things up with a cozy, casual meal at Cornish Pasty Co.

Want the full plan? Check out our 3-day Phoenix itinerary here!

Things to do in Phoenix, Arizona

1. See the desert from a hot air balloon at sunrise

Waking up before dawn isn’t usually a priority for a vacation, but this hot air balloon ride over the Sonoran Desert is totally worth it! Floating 5,000 feet (1,524 meters) above Phoenix as the sun rises is something you have to experience at least once.

The adventure starts at Deer Valley Airport, where you’ll meet your pilot and crew. They will walk you through the setup process, and before you know it, you’re climbing into the basket ready to take off! 

As the balloon lifts off, you’ll see the world below slowly shrink, and suddenly, you’re gliding weightlessly over the desert. 

Then the sun starts to rise, lighting up the valley in gold as the saguaros cast long shadows across the desert. The sky shifts into soft oranges and pinks, and from above, you can take in Camelback Mountain, the Phoenix skyline, and the desert stretching out endlessly in every direction.

The ride lasts about an hour, but it’s the kind of experience that tends to stick with you long after it’s over. Once you land, you’re welcomed back on solid ground with a toast and a gourmet breakfast set up at linen-covered tables right in the desert. It’s a pretty surreal way to start the day!

Whether you’re celebrating something special or just want an unforgettable start to your day, floating over the Sonoran Desert at sunrise is pure magic!

2. Take a day trip to the Grand Canyon

Arizona’s landscapes are legendary, that’s why you can’t miss this full-day Grand Canyon and Sedona tour! With towering cacti and deep canyon vistas, this trip packed in the best of the Southwest—without the stress of driving or planning.

Our guide, Jordan, set the tone with smooth driving and just the right mix of history and fun facts, making the ride fly by. Cruising through the Sonoran Desert, we watched the landscape transform from saguaro-dotted plains to pine-covered peaks near Flagstaff.

First up was Sedona! We pulled over at Bell Rock for photos before getting free time to browse shops and grab a coffee. The red rock views were unreal but just a warm-up for what was next—the Grand Canyon!

No photo or filter can prepare you for seeing it in person. We visited three viewpoints, each somehow more incredible than the last. Walking along the rim, stopping at El Tovar Lodge, and taking it all in felt surreal. We also had time for lunch near the canyon’s edge (at our own expense), which gave us a chance to soak up the views while refueling.

As we drove through Oak Creek Canyon, the sunset painted Sedona’s red rocks in a fiery glow, making for an unforgettable grand finale to the day. 

This was hands-down our favorite tour from Phoenix! Whether you want a small-group or private tour, this is the best way to see Arizona’s most iconic sights.

3. Tackle an iconic climb up Camelback Mountain

This hike is a butt-kicker in the best possible way. Climbing to the top of Camelback Mountain is one of the most challenging things you can do in Phoenix, but the payoff? Absolutely worth it! With sweeping views of the entire city and the Sonoran Desert stretching for miles, this guided hike feels like a true desert adventure.

You will meet your guide right at the trailhead, which makes things super easy. The trail itself is rated strenuous, and that’s no exaggeration. There are steep inclines, loose rocks, and even a few sections where you’ll be scrambling up using your hands. But your guide will keep things safe and encouraging the whole way, offering tips on pacing, checking in often, and even pointing out desert plants and hidden rock formations you may completely miss on your own.

The climb gains about 1,300 feet (396 meters) in elevation, and at the summit (2,707 feet/825 meters), you’re rewarded with an unreal 360-degree view over Phoenix and the surrounding desert. Take your time soaking it all in; the early morning light over the city is incredible.

Backpacks, snacks, and plenty of water are included, which keeps things stress-free. We’d definitely recommend this hike for active travelers or anyone who wants a real physical challenge paired with unforgettable views.

If you’re up for something adventurous and don’t mind breaking a serious sweat, this Camelback guided hike is a Phoenix must-do. Just be ready, it’s a climb you won’t forget!

4. Visit the Desert Botanical Garden

The most impressive display of desert growth you can find in Phoenix is at the Desert Botanical Garden, located on the eastern side of Papago Park. Beautifully maintained, full of weekly events, and lit-up nighttime tours keep this place a well-loved destination for locals and visitors. 

Walking along the garden paths and loops, you’ll find giant displays of cacti collections, succulents, and blooms of every color thriving in the intense Arizona sun. There are five themed trails with more than 50,000 plants to check out. You’ll also often stumble upon hosted events like kids’ camps, sunrise yoga, and meditations.  

While mornings are super special here, my favorite time to visit is at dusk in the summer, as the garden completely transforms. Lighted displays line the pathways and plants, creating a totally different experience. Evenings bring a more party-like feel, with themed music and seasonal cocktails.

Admission starts at about $19 USD, and make sure you reserve tickets in advance to avoid waiting in busy lines! 

5. Explore Papago Park

Papago Park is a playground for outdoor adventure and history, known for its striking red sandstone buttes. It’s right in the middle of the city, making it an accessible place to escape into the Sonoran Desert. This is where you will find the Phoenix Zoo, the scenic Papago Golf Course, the Desert Botanical Garden, the Arizona Heritage Center, and multiple hiking trails. 

My favorite thing to do here after visiting the Desert Botanical Garden is to hike the Hole in the Rock Trail. It’s not much of a workout at just 0.3 miles (0.5 km) long, but the view is just so dang gorgeous. The natural hole in the rock formation frames a view of the city skyline of Phoenix, making it a great place for photos, especially at sunset. 

The park is also a great place to picnic and just relax between busy days of exploring the rest of Phoenix. With several picnic tables, barbecue grills, and space to spread out, it’s a popular spot for families and anyone wanting a chill day with desert views. 

6. Take a day trip to Sedona and see Native American Ruins

Trying to see Sedona and Montezuma Castle in one day on your own means long driving hours, confusing maps, and the stress of planning. That’s why booking this all-in-one guided tour lets you experience the best of Red Rock Country without the hassle.

The first stop is Montezuma Castle National Monument, where you’ll get an up-close look at ancient Sinagua dwellings built into limestone cliffs. Standing beneath this five-story, 20-room structure, it’s impossible not to be amazed by how Native Americans thrived here centuries ago!

Next, you’ll roll into Sedona, stopping first at the Chapel of the Holy Cross, an architectural marvel built into the red rock formations. You’ll also get to take in stunning views at Bell Rock and Airport Mesa Overlook. 

With plenty of free time in Uptown Sedona, you’re free to explore art galleries, boutiques, and cafés. You can even take your pick of psychic readings—because why not? Uptown Sedona has a ton of shops dedicated to unique souvenirs, so this is definitely the time to pick up little gifts and mementos. 

By the time you head back to Phoenix, you’ll be in awe of everything you’ve seen. If you want a hassle-free way to experience Sedona’s beauty, this tour is a must. Whether you prefer a small group or a private tour, this experience is worth it—but don’t wait too long; this one fills up fast!

7. Get your adrenaline pumping on an ATV tour of the desert

Arizona’s heat and rough terrain can make the Sonoran Desert exhausting to hike. That’s why we ditched the walking trails and booked this guided ATV tour, where we covered more ground, took in epic views, and had an absolute blast doing it! 

Our guide, Donn, was fantastic! He made sure everyone was comfortable with the ATVs, giving us a solid rundown on how to handle the trails. Once we were geared up with helmets, goggles, and masks, it was time to hit the dirt. 

The ride took us deep into the desert, past towering saguaro cacti, rugged canyons, and dry riverbeds shaped by flash floods. Donn kept things fun and informative, pointing out local plant life and sharing stories about the Native Americans who once farmed this unforgiving landscape. 

Along the way, we kept an eye out for coyotes, deer, and even the occasional bobcat. At one point, a red-tailed hawk even soared right over our heads, circling effortlessly before diving toward the desert floor in search of prey.

For the best experience, we’d highly recommend an early tour—the morning views were unbeatable, and the cooler temps made the ride a lot more comfortable. Whether you’re an experienced rider or a total beginner, buckle up and get ready to kick up some dust!

8. Spend a few hours at Topgolf

Topgolf is a great activity if you’re visiting Phoenix as a couple or small group. Think golf meets bowling, and that’s Topgolf! Even if you’re pretty terrible at golf, you can still have a great time here.

Topgolf is a multilevel driving range where each group gets a bay, similar to a bowling lane. Here, you can play various games by driving the golf balls into the massive netted area, and each ball is chipped so you can see what targets you hit or how far it went.

It’s not all golf either. There are other games inside, like billiards or an Xbox, or you can go up to the rooftop terrace to see Phoenix sprawling below. The vibe at Topgolf is upbeat and lively, with good music and often a live DJ. We always like to order a few appetizers and cocktails and kick back for a few hours!

There are misters, and it’s shaded, so even on a hot day, you can have a relaxing afternoon. It’s also really popular in the evening. I’d recommend making reservations, as it’s quite popular. There are three locations in the greater Phoenix area: Topgolf Scottsdale, Topgolf Gilbert, and Topgolf Glendale, but the Scottsdale location is the most central.

9. Visit the Museums

What better way to escape the Phoenix heat than to spend it indoors exploring museums focused on local culture, art, and music? There are several to choose from, and they all vary in interest, exhibits, and interactive experiences.  

• Musical Instrument Museum – At the Musical Instrument Museum, you can explore the largest museum of its kind in the world, featuring a global collection of more than 15,000 instruments from nearly 200 countries. You can even play instruments from around the world in its Experience Gallery, and the museum also features celebrity and historic instruments, rotating exhibitions, and live music events. General admission can be purchased online or at the door for about $20 USD.

• Heard Museum – The Heard Museum is a premier museum for Native American art and culture, offering a deeper look into Indigenous communities across Arizona and the Southwest. It’s a really beautiful museum altogether! Tickets are about $26 USD and are available online ahead of time or in person at the entrance.

• Phoenix Art Museum – The Phoenix Art Museum is the largest art museum in the American Southwest, featuring a wide range of modern, contemporary, and classic works. It’s one of my personal favorite art museums! Tickets are about $25 USD and can be booked in advance online or picked up at the door.

• Children’s Museum of Phoenix – The Children’s Museum of Phoenix is an award-winning interactive museum and is perfect for families, with hands-on play and learning exhibits designed especially for younger children. Admission is about $19 USD, and it’s worth booking ahead online for popular time slots and holidays.

10. Raft along the Salt River

The sun in Phoenix can be relentless, and there’s no better way to escape the heat than by floating down the Lower Salt River. But this isn’t just any lazy river ride—this half-day rafting tour takes you through the heart of the Tonto National Forest, where towering saguaros line the shores and wild horses roam freely.

This adventure is perfect for families since it’s beginner-friendly and only deals with Class 1 rapids, so it’s more about enjoying the scenery and having fun on the water than anything too intense.

The river alternates between calm stretches where you can soak in the scenery and swift sections that keep things exciting. One moment, you’re lazily drifting along, watching wild horses run along the shore and spotting fish dart beneath the raft. Next, you’re paddling hard as the current picks up and navigating through rapids!

And, yes, swimming is encouraged in some of the calmer spots, so dress accordingly and be ready to get wet! The entire journey takes a little over two hours before wrapping up. Shuttles are waiting to bring you back to the starting point.

You will love drifting along quiet sections and then paddling hard through the rapids. It’s truly the perfect mix of relaxation and adventure, with just enough challenge to keep things exciting!

If you want to experience the wild beauty of Phoenix from a whole new perspective, this is it. And don’t just take our word for it—read the 5-star reviews here!

Related Read: If you need some help planning an epic Phoenix trip, read our 3-day itinerary, which covers all the must-sees, hidden gems, and best places to eat!

11. Explore Scottsdale on a Segway

Scottsdale is packed with history, art, and stunning desert views, but exploring it on foot in the Arizona heat? No thanks! Gliding through town on this small-group Segway tour with a refreshing breeze was the best way to take in the sights, and best of all, it happens at sunset!

We kicked things off with a quick lesson from our guides, Austin and Jake, who made sure everyone felt comfortable on their Segways before we took off. Both were fantastic! They kept the group engaged, made sure we were safe, and shared fun facts along the way.

Cruising through Old Town, we zipped past the Rusty Spur Saloon, a historic watering hole that’s been serving up drinks since the Wild West days. We rolled by the Old Adobe Mission, admired the fountains and sculptures at the Scottsdale Civic Center, and took in the modern art near the Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art. 

The ride also gave us stunning views of Camelback Mountain, its rugged peaks silhouetted against the orange and pink sunset. We took a quick break at the Scottsdale Waterfront, where the unexpected mix of desert scenery and city skyline made for the perfect photo op. After stretching our legs, we hopped back on our Segways, ready for more adventure.

The whole experience was equal parts fun, interactive, and scenic—and it flew by! Whether you’re new to the area or just want to see Scottsdale from a unique perspective, this Segway tour is the perfect way to explore without breaking a sweat!

12. Take a stroll around Tempe Town Lake

One of the best ways to experience Phoenix’s urban side is with a walk around Tempe Town Lake, especially near the Mill Avenue Bridge. This is where the city really shows off its unique mix of desert landscape and modern skyline, with calm water reflecting the surrounding buildings and mountain silhouettes in the distance.

It’s especially beautiful at sunset when the sky turns shades of pink and orange, and locals gather along the waterfront to jog, bike, or just relax by the water. The Mill Avenue Bridge itself is a great photo spot, offering wide-open views of the lake with Camelback Mountain and the surrounding desert peaks in the background.

It’s a simple stop, but it captures that unexpected side of Phoenix that surprises a lot of first-time visitors. It’s an easy, scenic moment right in the heart of the city.

13. Taste your way through Roosevelt Row

We’re always excited about a good food tour, but this Phoenix walking food tour has an extra fun twist because it takes place in Roosevelt Row, one of the city’s most colorful and creative neighborhoods. So between bites, you’ll be wandering past murals, street art, and local landmarks, which makes the whole experience feel like part food tour, part neighborhood adventure!

And the tastings? They’re really generous! Over 3 hours, you’ll stop at local spots to try seven different bites, which can include a Sonoran taco, wood-fired artisan pizza, a steak and potato burger, duck fat fries, a mac and cheese ball, handmade gelato, and a secret dish. Honestly, we love that this tour doesn’t stick to one style of food, because it gives you a much better feel for how varied Phoenix’s food scene really is.

The tour starts at the “Welcome to Roosevelt Row” art installation, so you’re right in the action from the beginning. As you make your way through the neighborhood, your guide will share stories about the area’s history, its creative community, and the food spots that make it such a fun place to explore.

This is also a great option if you like tours that feel social without being overwhelming. The group is capped at 12 travelers, so it still feels personal, but there’s enough energy to make it fun. Plus, the route ends at FOUND Phoenix Hotel, which keeps you right in the downtown area if you want to continue exploring afterward.

Come hungry, wear comfortable shoes, and don’t make huge dinner plans straight after, because this is definitely more than a little nibble here and there. We’d also recommend contacting the tour operator ahead of time if you have any dietary requirements, since the menu can vary depending on availability.

14. Enjoy a sunrise or sunset guided hike (beginner-friendly!)

The Sonoran Desert in Phoenix is one of the hottest in the U.S., and unless you’re an expert at navigating the rugged terrain, heading out alone can be risky. That’s why opting for this private guided hiking adventure is a great way to enjoy the desert’s beauty without worrying about getting lost. And don’t worry, this hiking option is much easier than Camelback Mountain, as mentioned earlier!

You will meet your guide at the trailhead. They come fully prepared with backpacks, water, and even snacks for the trek. Even better? They will customize the entire hike to match your mileage, terrain, and skill level.

As you set off, your guide will share insights about the desert’s unique ecosystem, pointing out towering saguaros, hidden wildlife, and plants that have adapted to survive the extreme conditions. Did you know the Sonoran Desert could go over a year without rain?!

The real magic happens when you reach the mountain viewpoint. With 40 miles (64 kilometers) of Sonoran Desert stretching to the horizon, you’ll get to see the sun dip behind the mountains, turning the sky into a mix of deep oranges and purples. Have your camera ready, because these views are something else. 

Once you’re back to the trailhead, cold drinks will be waiting to greet you to wrap up an unforgettable adventure. This customized hiking tour is a safe and rewarding way to explore the desert—just check out all the 5-star reviews here to see why travelers rave about this hike!

15. Enjoy a pedal bar crawl of Old Town Scottsdale

Bar hopping on foot gets old fast—long walks, crowded bars, and waiting forever for drinks. That’s why we ditched the usual night out and booked this party bike pub crawl, where we pedaled, sipped, and partied through Old Town Scottsdale.

We started at Party Bike HQ, where we stocked up on drinks (yes, you can bring your own!) and met our guide, Drew, who was an absolute blast! He kept the energy high, cranked up the music, and made sure we had the best time.

Our first stop was Rockbar Inc., a rock ‘n’ roll pub with specials just for us. After some drinks and flatbreads, we hopped back on the bike, pedaling through Old Town with the cool desert air and city lights setting the vibe.

Next was Boondocks Patio and Grill, with a massive patio, games, and an all-day happy hour just for party bike riders. Between giant Jenga, cornhole, and dangerously good drinks, “just one more round” could easily turn into an entire night!

We passed Old Town’s historic Western buildings and the buzzing waterfront and even caught glimpses of Camelback Mountain before our final stop at Pattie’s First Avenue Lounge. With great drinks, music, and a wild crowd, it was the perfect place to wrap up the night!

This wasn’t just a pub crawl—it was a party on wheels, and we loved every minute of it. Just read thousands of 5-star reviews here to see why this is Scottsdale’s best way to bar hop!

Related Read: Need more ideas for a visit to Scottsdale? Our list of all the best activities in Scottsdale will make sure you don’t miss out!

Where to Stay in Phoenix, Arizona

Phoenix is a dynamic city with a wide range of accommodations to suit every traveler’s needs. Whether you’re seeking a luxurious desert retreat, a stylish mid-range stay, or a budget-friendly option, there’s no shortage of great places to stay in this sun-soaked destination.

To make your search easier, we’ve put together a list of the best places to stay in Phoenix so you can spend less time planning and more time enjoying this incredible city!

Luxury – $$$

Nestled at the base of Camelback Mountain, Royal Palms Resort and Spa, part of Hyatt, is a 5-star luxury retreat that blends Mediterranean elegance with Arizona’s natural beauty. This historic resort features charming casitas and villas, a serene pool, and lush courtyards perfect for relaxation. Guests can enjoy award-winning dining at T. Cook’s or unwind with a spa treatment at Alvadora Spa.

Prices vary depending on the season and room type but typically range from $300–$800 per night. Check all the options and book this luxury stay on Booking.com.

Mid-range – $$

The Found Re Phoenix is a stylish and artsy mid-range hotel in downtown Phoenix, offering a unique and modern stay. Located in the Roosevelt Row Arts District, it’s within walking distance of the city’s best restaurants, bars, and cultural attractions. The hotel features spacious, industrial-chic rooms with artistic decor, a rooftop pool with city views, a fitness center, and an on-site restaurant, Match Market & Bar, serving creative dishes and craft cocktails.

Prices range from around $150–$250 per night. Check availability for your travel dates on Booking.com.

Budget – $

For budget-friendly accommodation in Phoenix, Best Western North Phoenix Hotel is a solid choice! Conveniently located near major attractions, this comfortable hotel offers spacious rooms with free Wi-Fi, a flat-screen TV, and a mini-fridge. Guests can relax in the outdoor pool, work out in the fitness center, and enjoy a complimentary breakfast each morning. With its affordable rates and convenient location, it’s a great option for travelers looking to save without sacrificing comfort.

Rooms start at around $100 per night. Visit Booking.com to make your reservation!

For more options, see all of Phoenix’s hotels listed here!

Thanks for reading!

Phoenix is one of my favorite cities in the US! It’s always sunny, full of unique art, cafes, restaurants, and shops that are all so charming. You’ll need more than just a few days to experience it all, but this list of the top activities will give you a taste of Phoenix!

Before you go, check out our other USA blogs. We’ve been all over the country and have created guides to help you plan your next getaway. Here are a few related blogs that you might like!

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