Undoubtedly one of the most magnificent travel destinations in the Southwest, the “Valley of the Sun” is the perfect getaway for travelers looking for an idyllic combination of vibrant local landscapes, incredible cultural opportunities and one of the most impressive food scenes in the region.
Filled with outstanding local resorts, amazing outdoor activities and unique boutique shops around every corner, Phoenix is the picture-perfect combination of urban excitement and stunning dessert scenery that is guaranteed to take your breath away.
The capital of Arizona, this one-of-a-kind city offers incredible opportunities for a broad range of travelers and is an idyllic getaway destination all year round. Read on through our Phoenix travel guide to discover our tips and tricks for navigating the city.
Time Zone
Mountain Daylight Time
Language
English
Currency
American Dollar
How to Get to Phoenix
While Phoenix is well known for being in the middle of a sprawling desert, it is also an ever-expanding metropolis designed to make travel both to and throughout the city as easy as possible. Whether you’re flying in from across the country or enjoying a bit of a road trip, there are so many ways to start your travel experience off right.
Driving In
If you’ve decided to pack up your bags and drive into Phoenix, you’re in luck. Not only is Phoenix exceptionally well connected to several large highways, but the city has also been set up in a neatly organized grid, making it unbelievably straightforward to navigate for locals and visitors alike. If you’re driving down from the Las Vegas area, then the US 93 will get you there in just over four hours.
However, if you’re looking for a more scenic experience, then you may want to consider the drive from Flagstaff that uses not only US Route 93 but also the I-40 East, State Route 89A, State Route 179 and Interstate 17. Here, travelers can explore fascinating and beautiful spots such as the Grand Canyon, Prescott National Forrest and even Montezuma Castle.
Keep in mind, that there’s no reason you need to own a car to enjoy a bit of a road trip. AAA offers exceptional car rental discounts through Hertz to help take your adventure to the next level.
Flying In
For travelers making their way to Phoenix from longer distances, the Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport will be the most popular hub in the region. This world-class airport is not only a base for Southwest Airlines but also a major destination for American Airlines, United and Frontier.
PHX has two major operating terminals filled with fantastic boutique and convenience shopping and incredible dining options, such as SanTan Brewing and Matt’s Big Breakfast.
While this airport consistently ranks as one of the top 15 busiest airports in the world, travelers often find the layout exceptionally easy to navigate, ensuring a stress-free start to their dream getaway.
By Rail/Train
If you’re looking for a more nostalgic journey to this iconic Southwest city, then you may want to consider taking a train to any of the three stations within Phoenix, including one in PHX and another conveniently located in the middle of Downtown.
Getting around Phoenix
While Phoenix may be one of the busiest urban settings in the Southwest, the grid system it was built on has also helped to make it one of the most accessible and most straightforward to navigate. Luckily, there are several ways to explore the city and see every incredible site imaginable.
A Drive Through Phoenix
One of the easiest ways to travel around this captivating destination is with a car. The road grid system is only ever interrupted by mountains and numerous parking opportunities are spread throughout the city, making it stress-free and super simple to make your way around quickly.
Of course, if you’re planning on making the most of the incredible desert landscape surrounding Phoenix, then having access to a vehicle will be key. There are tons of attractions spread out around the city that you really shouldn’t miss and a car is the best way to guarantee you’re able to make it out.
Make the Most of Mass Transit
Another great way to visit several of the city’s stunning spots is to take advantage of its incredible mass transit. The Valley Metro Bus serves several main traffic points throughout Phoenix and is a relatively inexpensive way to get around. The Metro Light Rail also offers one 26-mile line from Phoenix to Tempe and Mesa that includes stops at major hubs such as the Phoenix Art Museum, Chase Field and the Heard Museum.
Going Out for a Walk
If you’re planning on staying within city limits, then walking will be the perfect way for you to explore the city. In fact, Phoenix is one of the state’s most pedestrian-friendly cities, allowing travelers to really see and immerse themselves in the city’s unbelievable local vibes and cultural hotspots that might otherwise be missed.
Best time to visit Phoenix
Phoenix is an incredible destination, bringing in visitors from around the world no matter what time of year. However, while this desert city doesn’t have distinct seasonal changes to consider, there are some differences you may want to make note of when it comes time to decide when to plan your Phoenix adventure.
Fall, Winter and Spring
While most of the US will be busy fighting off freezing temperatures and snow-filled roadways, the city of Phoenix experiences some of the best weather of the year between November and April.
Typically, temperatures during this time stay between 65 and 75 degrees during this time, making it the perfect time to get out and explore everything the city offers. Several exciting annual events are also taking place at this time, including the Fiesta Bowl and the McDowell Mountain Music Festival.
However, as this is one of the most popular visiting periods, travelers must remember to make their reservations early. The “snowbird season” is when hotels and local restaurants will be their busiest, which could make finding accommodations a bit more of a hassle.
Summertime
Anyone planning a visit to Phoenix in the summer needs to keep in mind that 100-degree+ days are fairly normal for this incredible destination. In fact, Phoenix often records some of the hottest temperatures in the region between May and October. However, any true Southerner will tell you that the heat is quite bearable due to the significant lack of humidity. While you may initially scoff at the high temps, this dry heat can feel pretty pleasant.
Another massive bonus to visiting Phoenix in the warmer months will be the drop in crowds and prices. Many hotels offer incredible package deals during this time and you can even enjoy exciting events like the Arizona State Fair and the Tempe Town Lake Oktoberfest.
Things to do in Phoenix
One of the most exciting and eclectic cities in the Southwest, Phoenix has no shortage of things to do. Whether you’re hoping to learn about the city’s unbelievable history or want a sky-high view of the Sonoran Desert, this city has a little something for everyone.
Arizona Science Center
Located right in the center of picturesque Downtown Phoenix, the Arizona Science Center is an incredible museum bursting with a wide range of hands-on exhibits and interactive galleries. Their 5-story tall planetarium is certainly one of the most popular attractions, but with well over 300 exhibits, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
Phoenix Zoo
With over 125 acres of beautiful sprawling landscapes, the Phoenix Zoo is an outdoor adventure not to be missed. The zoo features over 3,000 beautiful animals and has been widely praised for its exceptional dedication to preservation.
Sea Life Aquarium
If you’re looking for an underwater experience that will help you create memories that will last a lifetime, then a visit to the Sea Life Aquarium is just the place. Bursting with over 5,000 fish and marine species, this world-class aquarium is hailed as one of the best in the country.
The Aquarium offers an extensive variety of exciting exhibits, including an interactive tide pool, an incredible ocean tank and even shark feeding opportunities for those guests looking for a bit more of an adrenaline rush.
Outdoor Activities in Phoenix
While Phoenix may be one of the most urban areas in the region, it hasn’t left its desert landscape in the dust. For many travelers making their way to this unique city, its incredible connection with nature is one of the major draws.
There are numerous exhilarating outdoor opportunities both throughout and around the city that will offer travelers a life-changing experience they’ll never be able to forget.
A Morning Balloon Flight
If you’ve ever dreamed of seeing one of the country’s most incredible views, then this is the perfect opportunity for you. Several extraordinary hot-air balloon flights offer breathtaking adventures soaring above the Sonoran Desert. With 360° views of some of the most picturesque vistas imaginable, this is the perfect way to start your Phoenix getaway.
Exploring Antelope Canyon
There is nothing quite like seeing a magnificent natural cathedral in person and that’s just what you’ll get when you take this AAA recommended tour of Antelope Canyon. The perfect combination of sand and stone, this incredible rock structure will leave you speechless.
A Visit to Montezuma
Without a doubt, Montezuma Castle is one of the Nation’s most unbelievable historic sites. A window into this region’s unique past, this stunning destination is dedicated to preserving Native American History and promoting the prosperity of this incredible natural landscape.
Where to Stay in Phoenix
Finding the right accommodations is the key to enjoying a dream vacation like you deserve. Luckily, Phoenix is filled with world-class hotels that will help you enjoy that picture-perfect getaway.
Renaissance Phoenix Downtown
- Address: 100 North 1st Street, Phoenix, AZ
- Rating: AAA Three Diamond
- Rates: $195+
- Parking: Valet Only
- Amenities: Three on-site restaurants and full bar
Newly designed and offering a more contemporary feel, this beautiful hotel is a comfortable and convenient destination for anyone visiting the city for business or pleasure. The hotel itself is centrally located, making it easy to reach many of the city’s most exciting attractions. They also offer a state-of-the-art fitness center and a beautiful outdoor pool to help you unwind after long days exploring the city.
The Camby, Autograph Collection
- Address: 2401 E Camelback Road, Phoenix, AZ
- Rating: AAA Four Diamond
- Rates: $195+
- Parking: Valet Only
- Amenities: 2 On-site Restaurants and Full Bar
A beautiful upscale property with one of the liveliest bar scenes in the area, the Camby is a world-class destination that will help take your vacation to new heights. Not only does it offer beautiful grounds to explore and an incredible rooftop pool, but this exquisite hotel also features sweeping views of the picturesque Piestawa Peak and Phoenix Mountains Preserve.
The Arizona Biltmore, A Waldorf Astoria Resort
- Address: 2400 E Missouri Avenue, Phoenix, AZ
- Rating: AAA Four Diamond
- Rates: $465+
- Parking: On-site with fee and Valet
- Amenities: 5 On-site Restaurants and Full Bar
A widely renowned resort known for its luxurious accommodations, exclusive high-end hospitality and classical elegant ambiance, a stay in the Arizona Biltmore is like no other. This spectacular resort offers guests the opportunity to unwind in any of their seven magnificent pools set throughout their expansive grounds before heading to one of their award-winning restaurants and confectionaries.
Where to Eat in Phoenix
As a cultural hotspot of all things Southwest, you can rest assured that the food scene in Phoenix is quite simply one of the best. An undeniable cultural mecca, the city offers everything from over-the-top food trucks to sophisticated fine-dining restaurants taking the culinary world by storm. Here are a few of Phoenix's top dining destinations.
Kai
A luxury dining experience celebrating the wonders of Native American Cuisine, Kai offers a new look at indigenous dishes serving seasonally changing tasting menus showcasing beautiful local products and an exceptional ala-carte menu with meat, game and seafood selections you’ll fall in love with.
Cocina Chiwas
A trendy Tempe hotspot, this buzzing bistro offers a Chihuahuan-inspired menu that guests rave over. Filled with local and organic ingredients, Cocina Chiwas’s unique dishes approach classic Mexica flavors with innovation and creativity. Their heirloom blue corn empanadas filled with beef cheek barbacoa are certainly one of their most popular dishes, but make sure you save enough room for dessert.
Different Pointe of View
Located in the beautiful Hilton Phoenix Tapatio, this exquisite restaurant offers panoramic views of the valley from its spectacular mountaintop location. Start your evening off with a bang by enjoying a selection from Different Point of View’s award-winning wine list before biting into any of their mouth-watering New American-style dishes.
Top Photo Spots in Phoenix
With jaw-dropping mountain views, unbelievable natural landscapes and iconic indoor destinations, Phoenix is filled with Instagrammable photo spots that will take your breath away and help you make memories that will last a lifetime.
Desert Botanical Garden
If you’re looking for a romantic photo-op with towering cactuses and perfectly cultivated desert gardens, then you need to make your way to the Desert Botanical Gardens just off the North Galvin Parkway. While the majority of the garden’s plants are stunning succulents, the Harriet K. Maxwell Desert Wildflower Trail is in full bloom between March and May. What could be more beautiful than shots brimming with some of the region's most beloved flowers?
Papago Park
Travelers hoping to catch that perfect city view will not be disappointed when they visit Papago Park. The iconic Hole in the Rock formation provides the perfect frame for one of the most incredible cityscapes imaginable. The park also offers sensational lake and mountain views that will make the 16-minute drive from the city center more than worth it.
Roosevelt Row
A world-class arts district loaded with magnificent murals, stunning street art and numerous galleries filled with pieces from talented local artists, this is one of the best places for a photo shoot. Designed to be strolled through, the entire district is incredibly walkable, making it a great place to take your time and find that perfect shot.
Top Day Trips from Phoenix
While Phoenix is bursting with a plethora of fun activities and entertainment opportunities, getting out and enjoying the beauty of the surrounding area is a great way to enhance your upcoming getaway. Here are a few AAA day trip ideas that you can add to your trip plans.
A Trip to Tombstone
If you’re looking to take a step back in time, then a trip to Tombstone will be right up your alley. A town made famous by its role in Old Western history, Tombstone offers several unique attractions, including stagecoach and trolley tours, gunfight reenactments and even a zipline for guests who want a bird’s eye view of this iconic destination.
A Day in Sedona
Consistently considered one of the most beautiful locations in the entire US, a trip to Sedona guarantees travelers dramatic landscapes, towering rock formations and picturesque views as far as the eye can see.
Once you’ve had your fill of nature, you may want to stop by one of the numerous high-quality spas in the area before enjoying dinner at one of Sedona’s many top-of-the-line eateries. If you’d rather not adventure out on your own, this 10-hour AAA recommended tour of Sedona is a great way to explore the city's mystique.
The Grand Canyon
If you find yourself in Phoenix, a stop by the world-famous Grand Canyon is an absolute must. One of the country’s most spectacular natural sites, the Grand Canyon offers timeless beauty and a sense of vastness that will undoubtedly have an impact.
For travelers looking for a more in-depth experience, this private Grand Canyon day tour will provide you with a much more detailed look at the area’s rich and profound history and its impact on local culture and artistry.
Visiting Phoenix on a Budget
Traveling to a beautiful and beloved city like Phoenix can sometimes come with a pretty high price tag. However, that doesn’t have to mean you can’t keep your costs in check during your stay. Here are a few tips and tricks to help you stay within budget during your Phoenix getaway.
AAA Member Discounts
Did you know that AAA members are offered numerous benefits and discounts during their travels? Members can access many exclusive travel benefits, including lower-price attraction tickets, discounts on rental cars and even massive savings on accommodations with local hotel partners. When you travel with AAA, you know that you’ll be offered the best deals on the market.
Avoid the Busy Season
While you may think that travel prices stay the same no matter what time of year you decide to book, in a city like Phoenix this isn’t the case. Prices between November and May absolutely surge, which can make staying within budget much more difficult. If you’re looking to cut down on hotel costs, then booking your trip during the off-season is the best way to go. Not only will you find much lower travel costs, but you won’t have to worry about hefty crowds or wait times at your favorite destinations. Take advantage of the Trip Canvas Tool to find a hotel that fits your every need.
Make the Most of the Outdoors
The natural landscape around Phoenix is breathtaking and what’s even better is that visiting and exploring these stunning sites is often free. Phoenix offers a wide range of hiking and biking trails in and around the city with panoramic views of the mountains and dessert that you don’t want to miss.
Travel Tips for Phoenix
Experienced travelers and first-time Phoenix visitors alike need to take the time to plan for the picture-perfect getaway. Take a look at these tips that will help ensure you enjoy the Phoenix vacation of a lifetime.
Proper Planning
When it comes to visiting a new city, or even a destination you love, investing in some proper research can help ensure you enjoy a world-class trip rather than dealing with stressful and unexpected situations. Ensure you read up on local events and attractions to build an itinerary that will exceed your expectations.
Stay Hydrated
No matter what time of year you visit, Phoenix is hot and having to deal with dehydration is a surefire way to ruin your holiday. Make sure you strive to drink at least two liters of water a day and even more, if you’re planning on any high-intensity outdoor activities like hiking or biking. Bringing your own water bottles to fill up as you go is a great way to make sure you always have something to drink.
Save Room for Shopping
Between one-of-a-kind boutiques, out-of-this-world art galleries and a wide range of commercial opportunities, Phoenix is a shopping destination unlike any other. Luxury goods, unique pieces and fabulous finds are guaranteed to be around every corner, so make sure you save some room in your bags for anything you might come across during your stay.
Plan for Longer Lines
While the city of Phoenix has a much more laid-back and quiet sort of vibe, the airport is another story. PHX is one of the best-designed and easy-to-navigate airports in the country; getting into the airport itself can be a bit of a hassle.
As one of the busiest airports in the region, lines to get through ticketing and security can seem overwhelming. Make sure you leave yourself more than enough time to calmly make your way through these necessary steps without adding any extra and unnecessary stress.
What to Pack for Phoenix
No matter what time of year you decide to visit, there are a few travel essentials you’ll want to remember to bring with you for your stay. Here are a few of AAA’s most recommended packing must-haves that will help ensure you have everything you need before you leave.
Basic Items to Pack for Your Phoenix Getaway
No matter what your Phoenix itinerary has in store, there are certain items that every visitor will want to have with them during their holiday including:
- Comfortable Walking Shoes
- Backpack
- Sunscreen
- Sunglasses
- Hat
- Camera
- Travel Documents/ID/Health Insurance Card
- Medication
- Toiletries
- Entertainment for Travel
- Phone/Computer/Chargers
- Insect Repellent
- Exercise Clothing (If you’re planning to enjoy the numerous outdoor activities in the area)
- Light Clothing
- Light Jacket
- Swimsuit
Additional Items to Consider
There are so many adventures, cultural opportunities and entertainment venues in Phoenix that really should be taken advantage of during your stay. Here are a few additional items you may want to consider adding to your list:
- Clothes for a Night Out
- Insulated Water Bottle
- Sleep Mask (For travelers looking to sleep in)
- Luggage Scale
- Quick Dry Travel Towels
Plan Your Ultimate Phoenix Vacation with AAA
Book your Phoenix trip with a AAA agent today! Our travel agents make planning a trip easy, with access to vacation packages and a la carte planning options for every budget. Use your AAA membership to access exclusive travel benefits and use Trip Canvas for travel inspiration.