Orlando. New York City. San Diego. Maui. When it comes to U.S. vacation destinations, some cities are more obvious choices than others. Phoenix, Arizona, may not be one of them, but the truth is, this Southwest city has a lot to offer in terms of scenery, culture, history, entertainment and more. If you’re wondering what to do in Phoenix check out these top 10 reasons why Phoenix is a good place to visit.
Istock/©Anton Foltin
1. Stunning Scenery
If you’re not from the Southwest, or even if you are, the desert scenery that lies just outside of the city limits is unparalleled to anything you’ve likely ever seen before. From the looming mountains that form a perimeter around the city to the purple and red sunrises and sunsets to the vast expanse of red desert adorned with towering cacti, there’s a sight to behold at every turn. If you want to treat your loved ones to a trip riddled with photographic moments, head to Phoenix. You won’t be disappointed.
Suggested activity: sunset hot air balloon ride over Phoenix
2. Ideal Climate
Located in a desert valley, Phoenix boasts perfect temperatures nearly year-round. While it’s true that the summer months can be blistering hot — ranging from 90 degrees on a cool day to 110+ at the height of summer, if you plan your vacation just right, you may be greeted by a cool 80 degrees and sunshine. Unlike Florida or Portland vacations, you can almost always know what to expect from your trip to Phoenix, enabling you to pack light and smart for all the things to do in Phoenix.
3. Culturally Diverse Cuisine
When most people think of culturally diverse locations, they think of San Francisco, New York City or Miami. Yet the Southwest cities are becoming hotspots for cuisine inspired from all corners of the globe. If your family is more food-driven than anything else, and if your idea of the perfect vacation is one that lets you can sample good eats from Mexico, Italy, China, Japan, Greece and all around the U.S., there’s no need to schedule a tour of the world. Simply pack your bags, load your vehicle and head to Phoenix. Your taste buds will delight in this diverse desert city.
Where to eat:
- Clever Koi
- Fry Bread House
- Lom Wong
4. Outdoor Adventure
With mountains and cliffs, hiking trails and rivers and everything in between just a short distance away, Phoenix's outdoor activities are great for adrenaline junkies and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Gear up with water and sunscreen and head to Camelback Mountain to take in views of the city from 2,704 feet high. Rent an ATV or dirt bike for the day to cut through the Sonoran Desert. Go whitewater rafting on the Colorado River, or take in the views from high above by scheduling a hot air balloon tour. If you like slower-paced sports, or if you have little ones to accommodate, consider an activity that’s much mellower, such as golf, baseball, hockey or football. There are so many things to do in Phoenix, name the activity, and you can find it.
Suggested activities:
5. Rest and Relaxation
If your dream vacation is one that involves nothing but lounging around poolside, enjoying 90-minute massages and splurging on that facial you’ve been putting off for a decade, Phoenix has you covered. Phoenix caters largely to the wealthy and retired, meaning there are plenty of resort-spa combos to stay at. If you are neither wealthy nor retired, but you want to treat yourself to some much-needed R & R, you can still find affordable and innovative ways to renew your mind, body and spirit.
Where to get spa treatments:
- Tierra Luna Spa at Arizona Biltmore, A Waldorf Astoria Resort
- Revive Spa at JW Marriott Phoenix Desert Ridge Resort & Spa
- Alvadora Spa at Royal Palms Resort and Spa
6. Convenience
Let’s face it — while vacations are supposed to be fun and carefree, they often end up being stressful and chaotic, largely because you’re out of your element. While Phoenix will be new to you, it’s actually one of the easiest cities to explore. If you don’t feel like renting a car, don’t worry. Book a stay in a downtown location to be within walking, biking or trolleying distance of everything the city has to offer, including dining, shopping and entertainment. As for the location itself, Phoenix is a good place to visit being just a few hours driving or flying distance from other major U.S. cities, including San Diego, Los Angeles, Las Vegas and Albuquerque.
Where to stay:
7. Excellent Shopping
If you’re being honest with yourself, half the fun of vacationing is treating yourself in a way you wouldn’t do at home. In addition to eating out nightly when your rule is normally once a week, you may wish to splurge on a new outfit, a pair of shoes, jewelry or authentic pottery. Phoenix boasts a host of boutiques that range in style from quirky to upscale. Pick up a unique piece of artwork to showcase over your mantel, invest in authentic Native American pottery or buy yourself that Ralph Lauren scarf you wouldn’t look twice at while at home.
8. Arts and Culture
Phoenix offers a variety of museums, art galleries and exhibits that will satisfy the learner in just about everyone, regardless of age, interests or taste. The Heard Museum takes a deep dive into the history of the region’s Hispanic and Aboriginal culture, while Commemorative Air Force-Airbase Arizona shows the evolution of the aircraft from WWI to present day. The I.D.E.A. Museum lets little ones get hands-on with science, art and technology, while the Arizona Museum of Natural History takes a walk through time, beginning billions of years ago and ending in present day.
Suggested attractions:
- Heritage Square
- Phoenix Art Museum
- S'edav Va'aki Museum (formerly the Pueblo Grande Museum)
9. Exciting Attractions
The most enticing attraction near Phoenix is, of course, the Grand Canyon, which should be a must-see on your to-do list. In between exploring the South Rim and truly appreciating this world wonder, head over to Jerome, a ghost-town-turned-attraction. Hike to Devil’s Bridge, drive to Horseshoe Bend or take a walk through Antelope Canyon, one of many great day trips from Phoenix. For every attraction you check off your list, you’ll find there’s one more to add.
Suggested activities:
- Gull-day guided trip to the Grand Canyon
- Sedona with Jerome and Montezuma Castle one-day van tour
- Small group Antelope Canyon day trip
10. Family Fun
All of the reasons to visit Phoenix on this list add up to one thing: Family fun. However, as if great weather, outdoor adventure, spectacular food, a variety of shopping opportunities and more are not enough allure, check out the kids activities in Phoenix. Those include Six Flags Hurricane Harbor Phoenix water park, Enchanted Island Amusement Park, iFly Phoenix and OdySea Aquarium, among others.
Are you convinced? Let AAA help turn your dream vacation into a reality. AAA members can take advantage of AAA vacation planning services today by visiting AAA.com/tripcanvas and reviewing our Phoenix travel guide or talking to a AAA Travel Agent.