12 Best Things to Do in Phoenix, Arizona

The best things to do in Phoenix, Arizona, include hiking the otherworldly landscapes of Camelback Mountain and relaxing in award-winning spas. As the fifth-largest city in the US, Phoenix is famous for its year-round warm weather and endless sunshine.

Phoenix is Arizona’s bustling capital city. It’s home to over 1.65 million people. With over 300 days of sunshine a year and winter highs exceeding 70°F, the city spreads out over the warm Sonoran Desert.

It’s home to Native American cultural sites, beautiful spas, and a blend of urban charm and rural beauty. Just outside of the city are endless nature trails and places to camp out and look up at the stars.

We analyzed Google reviews, local insights, and personal favorites to curate our list. Below are the 12 best things to do in Phoenix, Arizona.

Highlights at a Glance

Luxury Hotel in Phoenix: Renaissance Phoenix Downtown is a stylish hotel with a rooftop pool, a gym, and a saloon-style restaurant, just a short walk from Talking Stick Resort Arena and the convention center.
Mid-range Hotel in Phoenix: Sonder at McKinley offers modern, apartment-style stays with kitchens, free WiFi, and an outdoor pool, less than a kilometer from Copper Square and the convention center.
Budget Hotel in Phoenix: Sonder at Hance Park offers air-conditioned apartments with kitchens, free WiFi, and an outdoor pool, located near downtown Phoenix and major attractions.

See the Phoenix Zoo
Get a Spa Treatment
Visit the S’edav Va’aki Museum

Swipe and Vote: See What Travelers Recommend

If you had to prove to your friends that Phoenix is actually awesome, which one of these would you drag them to first?

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Best Things to Do in Phoenix, Arizona Climb up Camelback Mountain Paradise Valley street

🏞️ Camelback Mountain 1/5

Most Beautiful Gardens in the US Desert Botanical Garden Phoenix Arizona © Jacki Adobe Stock 525727195 - From World-Class Museums to Desert Hikes, This City Has More To Offer Than Just the Heat

🌵 Desert Botanical Garden 2/5

Best Things to Do in Phoenix, Arizona Get a Spa Treatment

Phoenix is home to several award-winning spas, such as Miraval Arizona. It’s one of the top ten spas in the US, according to Condé Nast Traveler’s Readers’ Choice Awards. This epic spa caters

💆‍♀️ Award-Winning Spas 3/5

Best Things to Do in Phoenix, Arizona Visit the S'edav Va'aki Museum

🏺 S'edav Va'aki Museum 4/5

Best Things to Do in Phoenix, Arizona See the Phoenix Zoo Mexican Wolves

🦁 Phoenix Zoo 5/5

Results

🏞️ Camelback Mountain

3 4

🌵 Desert Botanical Garden

3 4

💆‍♀️ Award-Winning Spas

3 4

🏺 S'edav Va'aki Museum

3 4

🦁 Phoenix Zoo

3 4

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See the Phoenix Zoo

The Phoenix Zoo is a wonderful place to spend the day and learn about the natural world. It features four spacious trails that take you through different habitats, including African Savannahs and tropical rainforests.

You’ll see wildlife such as lions, wolves, orangutans, and giraffes. Throughout the zoo are animal-inspired art programs such as Art on the Wild Side. After enjoying the art, take a backstage zoo tour and get the chance to touch wild animals such as tortoises and stingrays.

If you’re at the zoo in March, check out the Zoobilation fundraiser. This epic event mixes dancing, great food, and fun zoo activities throughout the night.

Discounted Admission & Free Parking: The Phoenix Zoo offers discounts for military, seniors, and groups. Parking is free, but it fills up fast on weekends—arrive early to secure a spot.
Camelback Trading Post Café: For a quick bite, I liked the Camelback Trading Post near the entrance. Their sandwiches and salads are fresh, and it’s a good stop before exploring.
Nighttime Events: If you visit in winter, check out ZooLights. This seasonal event transforms the zoo with thousands of lights and synchronized music. Tickets sell out quickly, so buy in advance.

Get a Spa Treatment

Phoenix is home to several award-winning spas, such as Miraval Arizona. It’s one of the top ten spas in the US, according to Condé Nast Traveler’s Readers’ Choice Awards. This epic spa caters to your entire stay for rest and rejuvenation.

You can find epic spas throughout the city, in all-inclusive resorts and historical buildings downtown. Destinations such as Aji Spa feature desert-inspired treatments such as prickly pear red clay treatments.

Book your spa experiences early and shop around for what you need. Some include detoxing activities while others specialize in relaxation and good times under the sun.

Joya Spa Day Pass: If you don’t want a full treatment, Omni Scottsdale Resort’s Joya Spa offers a day pass (about $75) for access to their rooftop pool, steam rooms, and relaxation lounges. Arrive early to enjoy the Moroccan-inspired amenities.
Well & Being Spa Rooftop Pool: The spa at the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess has a rooftop pool with a waterfall and private cabanas. Book a treatment to gain access or call ahead to check for day-pass availability.
Desert Botanical Garden + Spa Combo: Pair a morning at the Desert Botanical Garden ($24.95 entry) with an afternoon treatment at Aji Spa, just a 20-minute drive away. The contrast between nature and relaxation makes for a perfect day.

Visit the S’edav Va’aki Museum

The S’edav Va’aki Museum features several thousands of years of history in one building. You’ll see original Native American cultural artifacts, art, and clothes. You’ll also learn about the city’s rich history and culture that’s alive today.

Visit the museum and take a tour through the ancient town of S’edav Va’aki. People lived on the site from the 6th to the 15th century. You’ll see original artifacts from the town and learn about how the people lived in the desert landscape.

Walk through full-size replicas of buildings and experience interactive exhibits. Give yourself about two hours to see everything.

Admission & Free Days: Entry is around $13 for adults, but if you’re visiting on the first Sunday of the month, admission is free. Arrive early to avoid crowds.
Guided Tour Timing: The museum offers guided tours that dive deeper into the history of the Hohokam people. Check the schedule in advance, as tours aren’t offered daily.
Nearby Lunch Spot – The Bread and Honey House: Just a 10-minute drive away, this local café serves great chilaquiles and breakfast burritos. It’s a solid stop before or after your visit.

Walk Around Heritage Square

12 Haunted Houses in the US That Will Leave You Sleeping With the Lights On — © Kit Leong / Adobe Stock

Heritage Square is an old part of the city famous for its Victorian architecture and grand buildings. Start off at the Rosson House Museum. This former mansion was built in 1895 and is a great example of Queen Anne’s Victorian design.

You’ll see preserved artifacts from historical Phoenix, including furniture and clothes. You’ll also learn about how people turned this desert oasis into the fifth-largest city in the US.

After your tour through the mansion and grounds, you’re only a short walk from downtown. On your walk, check out the other great architectural gems nearby.

Rosson House Tour Times: Tours are guided-only and start on the hour from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM, Thursday through Sunday. Tickets are about $15, and it’s best to book ahead online.
Best Coffee Stop – Kähvi Coffee + Café: Just a 5-minute walk away, this stylish café inside The Churchill serves great lattes and Scandinavian pastries. It’s a good spot to relax after your tour.
Evening Dining – Pizzeria Bianco: One of the best pizza spots in the U.S. is right in Heritage Square. They don’t take reservations for small groups, so arrive early or expect a wait.

Climb up Camelback Mountain

Camelback Mountain is one of Phoenix’s most popular hikes. You’ll ascend almost 1,500 feet up the dry and rugged slopes of the mountain.

Along the way, you’ll see tons of wildlife and desert plants such as cacti and sagebrush. At the top, you’ll share the views with tons of locals and visitors.

The steep steps leading to the top will challenge even the best hikers. Bring tons of water and consider climbing in the early morning or winter to beat the heat.

Choose Your Trail Wisely: The Echo Canyon Trail is steeper and more technical, while Cholla Trail offers a slightly longer but more gradual ascent. Both are challenging—wear sturdy shoes and expect some scrambling.
Parking Fills Up Fast: The Echo Canyon lot is small and fills before sunrise on weekends. If full, try the Cholla Trailhead, but note there’s no parking at the trailhead itself—you’ll need to park along Invergordon Rd and walk in.
Post-Hike Brunch – The Henry: About a 10-minute drive away, this stylish café serves great cold brew and breakfast burritos. It’s a perfect reward after a tough climb.

See the Wrigley Mansion

The Wrigley Mansion was built in 1931 for the powerful businessman William Wrigley Jr., Wrigley who created Wrigley’s Chewing Gum. He built the mansion for his wife, Ada, on their 50th anniversary.

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Today, the mansion contains one of the area’s top restaurants, Geordie’s, and several private dining locations. You can book a private party in the elegant ballroom or pull up a table at Geordie’s.

The views from the mansion are spectacular. Stay for the sunset, and don’t miss a tour around the grounds.

Tour & Dining Combo: A mansion tour costs about $26, but you can skip the fee if you dine at Geordie’s or The Lounge. Reservations are recommended, especially for sunset dining.
Dress Code Applies: Geordie’s has a business casual dress code—no flip-flops, tank tops, or athletic wear. Dress accordingly if you plan to dine after your tour.
Best Sunset Views: The Lounge’s patio offers some of the best sunset views over Phoenix. Arrive early to grab a spot, as seating is first-come, first-served.

Watch a Game at Chase Field

Chase Field is home to the Arizona Diamondbacks baseball club. It was built in 1998 and has since become a popular destination for sports fans visiting the city.

Check out a live game and see the popular team on their home field. Enjoy the stadium with locals cheering on their team and try the stadium’s famous churro dogs.

If you love baseball, visit the team shop or take a tour. You’ll get to see backstage sights and learn about the team’s history.

Roof Status Matters: Chase Field has a retractable roof. If you prefer cooler temps, check the team’s website to see if the roof will be closed for your game.
Ballpark Tour Timing: Stadium tours run year-round but are only available on non-game days. Book online in advance to see the dugout, press box, and other behind-the-scenes areas.
Best Food – Churro Dog & More: The Churro Dog is a must-try, but also check out Lo-Lo’s Chicken & Waffles inside the stadium for Southern-style comfort food.

Hike Through the Desert Botanical Garden

The Desert Botanical Garden is a must-see destination for nature lovers. Did you know that deserts like the Sonoran surrounding Phoenix are hotspots for plant diversity?

You’ll learn about the hundreds of local species and their significance to the original Native American people who lived here. You’ll see towering cacti and check out rare plants that thrive in the harsh climate.

Throughout the year are events such as art shows and lectures. This year, enjoy the spectacular Light Bloom exhibition. This art show combines geometric displays lit up and inspired by the Sonoran biome.

Discounted Entry Days: Admission is around $24.95, but on the second Tuesday of each month, entry is free. Arrive early, as it gets busy.
Best Trail for Views: The Sonoran Desert Loop Trail offers the best views of iconic saguaros and the surrounding mountains. It’s a short, scenic walk with great photo spots.
Evening Experience – Light Bloom: This nighttime exhibit runs seasonally and requires a separate ticket. Book in advance, as weekends often sell out.

Go on a Food Tour of the City

Top Things to Do in Morrison Colorado Dine on Southwest Cuisine Mexican food — © M.studio / Adobe Stock

Food tours are a great way to see a city, and Phoenix is no exception. Try booking a tour with Arizona Food Tours. Choose between several tours, including Old Scottsdale samplers and the first-ever food tour in Arizona.

You’ll sample the city’s best-kept secrets and learn about its culinary legacy. The region’s cuisine blends Native American, Mexican, and American in a unique combination of flavors.

You’ll learn about the food history of the city and meet some of its biggest foodies. Book your experiences early and come hungry!

Best Tour for First-Timers: The Scottsdale Tasting Tour covers a mix of classic and hidden-gem spots. It runs about 3 hours and includes enough food for a full meal.
Dietary Restrictions? Ask First: Some tours accommodate vegetarians and gluten-free diets, but options can be limited. Call ahead to check before booking.
Evening Option – Progressive Dinner Tour: If you prefer a sit-down experience, the Progressive Dinner Tour offers multi-course meals at different upscale Scottsdale restaurants.

See Old Town Scottsdale

Old Town Scottsdale is just a short drive from downtown Phoenix, but feels like a world away. It was once a famous artist colony during the early 20th century.

You’ll walk through a thriving arts district full of wonderful galleries and private studios. See the works inspired by southern Arizona and meet the artists in person.

After exploring the art, check out the popular bars and restaurants. Walk through the town sampling food, visiting cafes, and taking in the beautiful architecture, including the Little Red Schoolhouse.

Thursday ArtWalk: Every Thursday from 7–9 PM, galleries stay open late for the Scottsdale ArtWalk, a free event where you can meet artists and enjoy live music.
Best Coffee Spot – Berdena’s: This cozy café serves some of the best honey lavender lattes in town. It’s a great stop before exploring the galleries.
Historic Stop – The Little Red Schoolhouse: This free-entry museum showcases Scottsdale’s early days and is a quick, worthwhile visit while strolling Old Town.

See the Arizona Science Center

The Arizona Science Center is a wonderful stop for anyone interested in science. This family-friendly destination features interactive exhibits that cover a variety of disciplines.

Learn about the dinosaurs of Antarctica or discover the secrets of our galaxy. Explore the wonders of life and take a virtual reality tour of the human brain.

Visit early and avoid mid-day crowds of students during the week. If you’re traveling with kids, this is the ultimate destination in Phoenix.

Discounted Admission: General entry is around $22.95, but visit on the first Friday of the month from 5–9 PM for free admission (excludes special exhibits).
Dorrance Planetarium Shows: The planetarium features rotating space shows for an extra fee. Check the schedule online and book ahead, as seats fill up fast.
Nearby Lunch – The Arrogant Butcher: Just a 10-minute walk away, this spot offers great burgers and sandwiches. It’s a solid choice for a meal after your visit.

Go Golfing

Golf courses are everywhere in Phoenix. It makes sense given the city is over 90° F for much of the year.

No matter what your skill level, you’ll find dozens of epic courses to try, from professionals-only greens to public hangouts. One of the best is Scottsdale’s Troon North Golf Club. You’ll golf next to beautiful desert mountains and enjoy over 36 holes and a practice course.

Visit the courses during the morning or winter to avoid the heat. Otherwise, bring plenty of water and sunscreen and enjoy the game under the sun.

Twilight Tee Time Deals: Many courses, including Troon North, offer discounted twilight rates after 2 PM. It’s a great way to play for less while avoiding peak heat.
Best Budget-Friendly Course – Papago Golf Club: Just 15 minutes from downtown, Papago offers affordable green fees and scenic desert views, making it a solid option for casual golfers.
Luxury Golf Experience – The Phoenician: This high-end resort course has stunning city views and a great 19th-hole lounge. Book early if visiting in peak season (January–April).