Best Things to Do in Phoenix

Experience the Arizona desert at its finest at Desert Botanical Garden. Located in Papago Park, this 140-acre attraction showcases over 50,000 plants across beautifully maintained outdoor exhibits. Discover towering cacti, colorful wildflowers, and approximately 4,500 unique desert species, including hundreds of rare and endangered plants. Throughout the year, visitors can enjoy rotating exhibits, seasonal events, and engaging educational programs. Be sure to bring comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, water, and sun protection for your visit.

History enthusiasts will appreciate  Chandler Museum, a fascinating destination that explores Chandler's role in Arizona's development. Reopened in 2018, the 10,000-square-foot museum hosts up to eight special exhibits annually, highlighting local culture, history, and art. Best of all, admission is free, making it an easy and rewarding addition to any Phoenix itinerary.

Arizona Falls blends engineering, public art, and natural beauty into one memorable attraction. This hydroelectric facility features a stunning 20-foot waterfall flowing beside a pedestrian bridge. Visitors can relax near the scenic seating areas, enjoy solar-powered fans, and admire public art installations inspired by science and technology. Arizona Falls is also part of the Valley's extensive 80-mile canal pathway network.

For a quick outdoor adventure, visit Hole-in-the-Rock in Papago Park. This popular 0.3-mile trail leads to a distinctive sandstone formation believed to have been used by the prehistoric Hohokam civilization to track celestial events. After climbing approximately 200 steps, visitors are rewarded with beautiful panoramic views of downtown Phoenix, nearby lagoons, and the surrounding desert landscape.

The Musical Instrument Museum (MIM) offers a fascinating journey through global music and culture. Home to more than 7,500 instruments representing over 200 countries and territories, the museum showcases how music connects people worldwide. The Experience Gallery allows guests to play instruments firsthand, while special exhibits and live performances create an engaging and immersive visit.

A visit to Fry Bread House is a delicious way to experience Native American culinary traditions. Founded in 1992 by Cecelia Miller, this beloved establishment serves sweet and savory fry bread, famous fry bread tacos, and other authentic dishes. Today, the restaurant remains a cherished gathering place celebrating local heritage and flavors.

Located at the Phoenix Art Museum, the Firefly Infinity Mirror Room by Yayoi Kusama delivers an unforgettable immersive art experience. Officially titled You Who Are Getting Obliterated in the Dancing Swarm of Fireflies, the installation explores themes of infinity, self-reflection, and spirituality through mesmerizing lights and reflections. Its unique atmosphere makes it one of Phoenix's most remarkable art attractions.

The Heard Museum is internationally recognized for its dedication to Native American art and culture. Since 1929, it has built a collection of more than 40,000 pieces, including jewelry, pottery, textiles, beadwork, sculptures, and contemporary works. Visitors gain valuable insight into Indigenous history, creativity, and cultural traditions through thoughtfully curated exhibits.

As the nation's largest privately owned nonprofit zoo, Phoenix Zoo provides memorable wildlife experiences while supporting conservation efforts. Home to more than 3,000 animals representing over 400 species, the zoo features Arizona, Africa, Tropics, and Children's Trails. Guests can encounter elephants, giraffes, rhinos, cheetahs, and many native Arizona species along its extensive walking paths.

Families visiting Phoenix won't want to miss the Children's Museum of Phoenix. Spanning three levels and over 48,000 square feet, the museum features more than 300 interactive experiences designed to encourage creativity, exploration, and learning. The hands-on exhibits help support children's social, cognitive, physical, and emotional development through play.

Built in 1931 by William Wrigley Jr., Wrigley Mansion combines rich history with refined dining and stunning city views. Perched above the Biltmore neighborhood, the estate offers panoramic vistas of Phoenix and the surrounding desert. Guests can enjoy elegant dining experiences, seasonal menus, and award-winning wine selections in a truly historic setting.

The Phoenix Bat Cave offers one of the city's most unusual wildlife experiences. This storm drain serves as a seasonal home to between 10,000 and 20,000 Mexican Free-Tailed bats, with numbers often increasing before migration. At dusk, visitors can witness an impressive natural spectacle as thousands of bats emerge to hunt insects across the area.

Step back in time at MacAlpine's Soda Fountain, a nostalgic diner known for classic American comfort food, milkshakes, and sundaes. Much of its original character remains intact, from the vintage malt machine to the retro décor. The charming atmosphere captures the spirit of Phoenix's mid-century past.

Curious Nature is a one-of-a-kind destination for travelers interested in science, natural history, and unique collectibles. The shop features ethically sourced taxidermy, fossils, bones, exotic plants, and other fascinating specimens. Staff members are passionate about education and are always happy to share their knowledge with visitors.

Her Secret is Patience is a striking public art installation suspended above Civic Space Park. Created by Janet Echelman in 2009, the 145-foot sculpture reflects Phoenix's monsoon cloud formations through illuminated braided netting. The artwork transforms throughout the year with changing colors and movement, creating an ever-evolving visual experience.

Roosevelt Row, commonly known as RoRo, is the heart of downtown Phoenix's creative community. Filled with galleries, boutiques, restaurants, bars, murals, and public art, this walkable district invites visitors to explore at their own pace. Don't miss the famous First Friday Art Walk, one of the largest self-guided art events in the country.

Camelback Mountain is one of the most iconic hiking destinations in Arizona. Rising 2,704 feet above the Valley, it rewards adventurous hikers with spectacular views of Phoenix and the surrounding desert. Echo Canyon and Cholla Trails provide challenging routes featuring steep climbs, exposed rock, and unforgettable scenery. Visitors should come prepared with water and proper hiking gear for a safe experience.