Phoenix United States

The Ultimate Guide to Travelling in Phoenix, Arizona

Phoenix, the capital city of Arizona, is a vibrant desert metropolis that offers a unique blend of Southwestern culture, outdoor recreation, and urban excitement. As a traveller, you’ll find plenty of things to do, see, and experience in this sun-kissed city. Here’s your comprehensive guide to exploring Phoenix like a pro!

Places to Go

1. South Mountain Park

  • Address: 10919 S Central Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85042
  • Phone: (602) 495-5458
  • Hours: 5am - 11pm
  • Admission: Free

Hike, bike, or drive to the top of South Mountain for breathtaking views of the city and surrounding landscape.

2. Desert Botanical Garden

  • Address: 1201 N Galvin Pkwy, Phoenix, AZ 85008
  • Phone: (480) 941-1225
  • Hours: 8am - 8pm
  • Admission: $24.95 adults, $12.95 children

Stroll through the beautiful gardens featuring over 50,000 plants and flowers.

3. Heard Museum

  • Address: 2301 N Central Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85004
  • Phone: (602) 252-8840
  • Hours: 9:30am - 5pm
  • Admission: $18 adults, $10 children

Learn about Native American art, culture, and history at this unique museum.

4. Heritage Square

  • Address: 113 N 6th St, Phoenix, AZ 85004
  • Phone: (602) 262-5024
  • Hours: 10am - 4pm
  • Admission: Free

Step back in time and explore the historic buildings and museums of Heritage Square.

5. Phoenix Zoo

  • Address: 455 N Galvin Pkwy, Phoenix, AZ 85008
  • Phone: (602) 273-1341
  • Hours: 9am - 5pm
  • Admission: $24.95 adults, $14.95 children

Get up close and personal with over 200 species of animals at the Phoenix Zoo.

Activities

1. Hot Air Expeditions

  • Address: 715 E Carefree Hwy, Phoenix, AZ 85085
  • Phone: (480) 502-6999
  • Hours: Varies
  • Cost: $225 - $425 per person

Take a hot air balloon ride over the Sonoran Desert for a bird’s-eye view of the landscape.

2. Papago Park

  • Address: 625 N Galvin Pkwy, Phoenix, AZ 85008
  • Phone: (602) 261-8318
  • Hours: 5am - 10pm
  • Admission: Free

Hike, bike, or horseback ride through the scenic trails of Papago Park.

3. Phoenix Art Museum

  • Address: 1625 N Central Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85004
  • Phone: (602) 257-1880
  • Hours: 10am - 5pm
  • Admission: $20 adults, $14 children

Explore the diverse art collections and exhibitions at the Phoenix Art Museum.

4. Roosevelt Row Arts District

  • Address: Roosevelt St between 7th Ave and 16th St, Phoenix, AZ 85004
  • Phone: (602) 262-6225
  • Hours: Varies
  • Admission: Free

Discover local art galleries, studios, and street art in this vibrant arts district.

5. Taliesin West

  • Address: 12621 N Frank Lloyd Wright Blvd, Scottsdale, AZ 85259
  • Phone: (480) 860-2700
  • Hours: 9am - 4pm
  • Admission: $35 - $75 per person

Tour the winter home and studio of famous architect Frank Lloyd Wright.

Where to Eat

1. Pizzeria Bianco

  • Address: 623 E Adams St, Phoenix, AZ 85004
  • Phone: (602) 258-8300
  • Hours: 11am - 10pm
  • Price Range: $15 - $30

Savor wood-fired pizzas and Italian-inspired dishes in a cozy atmosphere.

2. Barrio Café

  • Address: 2814 N 16th St, Phoenix, AZ 85006
  • Phone: (602) 636-0240
  • Hours: 11am - 10pm
  • Price Range: $15 - $30

Enjoy Mexican cuisine and vibrant atmosphere at this popular café.

3. The Original Farmer’s Market

  • Address: 721 N Central Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85004
  • Phone: (602) 236-6633
  • Hours: 7am - 2pm
  • Price Range: $10 - $20

Sample local produce, baked goods, and artisanal foods at this bustling market.

4. Durant’s

  • Address: 2611 N Central Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85004
  • Phone: (602) 264-5967
  • Hours: 11am - 10pm
  • Price Range: $20 - $40

Indulge in classic American comfort food and cocktails at this iconic restaurant.

5. The Kettle Black Kitchen & Pub

  • Address: 1 N 1st St, Phoenix, AZ 85004
  • Phone: (602) 258-0010
  • Hours: 11am - 10pm
  • Price Range: $15 - $30

Savor gastropub fare and craft beers in a lively atmosphere.

Where to Stay

1. The Camby, Autograph Collection

  • Address: 2525 N Central Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85004
  • Phone: (602) 258-6700
  • Rates: $150 - $300 per night

Enjoy luxurious accommodations and amenities at this boutique hotel.

2. Hotel Palomar Phoenix

  • Address: 2 E Jefferson St, Phoenix, AZ 85004
  • Phone: (602) 253-9000
  • Rates: $120 - $250 per night

Relax in stylish rooms and enjoy rooftop pool access at this modern hotel.

3. Hyatt Regency Phoenix

  • Address: 122 N 2nd St, Phoenix, AZ 85004
  • Phone: (602) 252-1234
  • Rates: $100 - $200 per night

Take advantage of comfortable rooms, outdoor pool, and downtown location at this convention hotel.

4. Aloft Phoenix Downtown

  • Address: 102 W Adams St, Phoenix, AZ 85003
  • Phone: (602) 258-1700
  • Rates: $80 - $180 per night

Unwind in trendy rooms and enjoy live music events at this hip hotel.

5. Airbnb Options

Explore a range of apartments, houses, and villas available for rent through Airbnb, offering flexibility and local charm.

Things to Know

1. Weather: Phoenix is known for its hot desert climate, with temperatures often reaching over 100°F (38°C) in summer. Be sure to stay hydrated and protected from the sun.

2. Transportation: Rent a car or use public transportation like buses and light rail to get around the city. Uber and Lyft are also widely available.

3. Safety: As with any city, be aware of your surroundings, especially at night. Avoid walking alone in isolated areas and keep valuables secure.

4. Native American Reservations: Phoenix is surrounded by Native American reservations. Be respectful of their lands, cultures, and traditions.

5. Festivals and Events: Phoenix hosts various festivals throughout the year, such as the Phoenix Festival of the Arts, Arizona Renaissance Festival, and Phoenix Pride. Check local event calendars for dates and details.

Transportation

1. Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX)

  • Address: 3400 E Sky Harbor Blvd, Phoenix, AZ 85034
  • Phone: (602) 273-3300

Fly into PHX and take a taxi, Uber, or Lyft to your destination.

2. Valley Metro Light Rail

  • Address: Various stations throughout Phoenix and surrounding cities
  • Phone: (602) 262-7433
  • Hours: 4am - 1am
  • Fares: $2 - $4 per ride

Use the light rail to connect to downtown, midtown, and other areas of the city.

3. Phoenix Bus System

  • Address: Various bus stops throughout Phoenix
  • Phone: (602) 262-7400
  • Hours: Varies by route
  • Fares: $2 - $4 per ride

Ride the bus to reach various neighborhoods and attractions.

Tips

1. Hydrate: Drink plenty of water to combat the desert heat.

2. Sun Protection: Wear sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the intense sun.

3. Explore Neighborhoods: Venture beyond downtown and explore unique neighborhoods like Roosevelt Row, Heritage Square, and Arcadia.

4. Try Local Cuisine: Sample Southwestern flavors at restaurants serving Mexican, Native American, and cowboy-inspired dishes.

5. Attend a Diamondbacks Game: Catch a baseball game at Chase Field, home of the Arizona Diamondbacks.

Additional Resources

1. VisitPhoenix.com: The official tourism website for Phoenix, offering guides, maps, and event calendars.

2. Phoenix.gov: The City of Phoenix’s official website, providing information on city services, attractions, and events.

3. ArizonaTourism.org: The Arizona Office of Tourism’s website, featuring statewide travel guides, itineraries, and insider tips.

With this comprehensive guide, you’re ready to embark on an unforgettable adventure in Phoenix, Arizona!