10 Best Places to Visit in Phoenix, AZ

Warning: This guide may cause an irresistible urge to chase desert sunsets, hug a giant cactus (please don't), and fill your camera roll with the best places to visit in Phoenix—let the adventure begin!

The city of Phoenix, Arizona, is a unique place where the extraordinary Sonoran Desert landscape awaits you while you can enjoy the rich urban environment, full of diverse major attractions, outdoor adventures, and a little taste of Southwest culture.

Being the fifth-largest city in the United States, Phoenix enjoys sunshine almost every day of the year and is the ideal destination for scenic mountain trail hikes, exploring stunning botanical gardens, visiting top museums, and finally experiencing eclectic towns and neighborhoods with great restaurants and entertainment.

This guide will help you find the 10 coolest places to visit in Phoenix.

The panoramic view from the "hump" of this famous hiking spot, named after its appearance as a kneeling camel, is worth risking visitors' necks on the cliffs when taking the two precarious trails of Echo Canyon and Cholla. Hikers climb 1,200 feet in elevation to get to the peak, which offers a magnificent view of the city and the Phoenix Mountains Preserve.

Just a few minutes from the city center, you can see Papago Park, which is famous for its crisp red rock formations that can be explored by walking trails. Visitors are able to make the trek to the peak of the Hole-in-the-Rock Trail. It is also home to two major attractions: the Desert Botanical Garden and the Phoenix Zoo.

Address:

Camelback Mountain: 6131 E Cholla Ln, Paradise Valley, AZ 85253, USA

Papago Park: 625 N Galvin Pkwy, Phoenix, AZ 85008, USA

For those who are looking for entertainment, Andretti Indoor Karting & Games brings the excitement of high-speed electric Superkarts as they race on a multi-level track, along with more than 100 arcade games. For virtual reality experiences, Andretti features Hologate VR, Hyperdeck VR, racing simulators, and a laser tag arena. Those who wish to enjoy scrumptious meals can grab food from its restaurant while enjoying craft beers and cocktails of their choice.

Address:

6263 N 99th Ave, Glendale, AZ 85305, USA

With over 50 miles of trails throughout 16,000 acres of Sonoran Desert, this park is an excellent place for outdoor enthusiasts just outside the city. In addition to magnificent views of the skyline and the exotic plants that grow in the area, the park has more to offer. Look for ancient rock art. If hiking is not possible, take the drive on the 5.5-mile road up to Dobbins Lookout, which is the highest point you can reach in the park.

Address:

10919 S Central Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85042, USA

The Musical Instrument Museum (MIM) allows you to explore a variety of musical instruments and play the sounds of many different instruments using a headset that synchronizes with every movement. Make an incredible journey through the world of various cultural instruments and pop stars, then come back to the MIM Music Theater to listen to live performances taking place throughout the year with over 200 artists from around the world.

The Heard Museum takes a different approach by presenting an integrated experience of the traditions, art, and culture of 22 U.S. tribes using authentic arts and crafts, exhibitions, and other events like the World Championship Hoop Dance Contest.

Address:

Musical Instrument Museum: 4725 E Mayo Blvd, Phoenix, AZ 85050, USA

Heard Museum: 2301 N Central Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85004, USA

The garden consists of numerous paths spanning across its 50 acres, all showcasing various arid plants, from giant cacti to rare flowers. It's the perfect place for various seasonal events! The garden is home to Las Noches de las Luminarias in winter, where thousands of lights are used to decorate the area. The garden also organizes displays of artwork from artists from different disciplines.

Address:

1201 N Galvin Pkwy, Phoenix, AZ 85008, USA

As the largest fine arts museum in the Southwest, the Phoenix Art Museum showcases both modern art and amazing masterpieces. The permanent collections of this museum are complemented by temporary exhibits of artifacts from around the world. Want to see the permanent collections for free and get discounted entry to the temporary exhibits? Visit the museum on Wednesdays from 3 PM to 9 PM or on the second Sunday of the month from noon to 5 PM during special donation days for museum visitors.

Address:

1625 N Central Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85004, USA

Situated on 125 acres of stunning Papago Park, the Phoenix Zoo offers an incredible space for exploration and adventure. Hosting about 3,000 animals such as Bornean orangutans, Asian elephants, Sumatran tigers, Komodo dragons, and Masai giraffes, the zoo is unique to the Valley.

Address:

455 N Galvin Pkwy, Phoenix, AZ 85008, USA

Get ready for lots of laughter and enjoyment while seeing some of the best magicians from America's Got Talent, Penn & Teller: Fool Us, Masters of Illusion, and other famous shows. Carnival of Illusion is hosted at the Downtown Renaissance Phoenix Hotel and lasts for 90 minutes.

Address:

Renaissance Phoenix Downtown Hotel, 100 N 1st St, Phoenix, AZ 85004, USA

Roosevelt Row is the creative hub of the city, filled with galleries, murals, and regular art walks. This district is an important stop for visitors and community members along the First Friday self-guided art tour. Southwestern art has been combined with hip restaurants lining the streets in Old Town Scottsdale. The area is an ideal place to enjoy nightlife and shopping options in Greater Phoenix. If you are looking for a perfect souvenir, you will find a great selection of traditional items like cowboy hats and turquoise jewelry, alongside art galleries and trendy boutiques in the Fifth Avenue district.

Address:

Roosevelt Row: Roosevelt St, Phoenix, AZ 85004, USA

Old Town Scottsdale: Main St & N Scottsdale Rd, Scottsdale, AZ 85251, USA

This neighborhood is home to the Arizona Science Center, with its collection of over 350 interactive exhibits.

This 1-mile stretch on Seventh Avenue, between Indian School Road and Camelback Road, is home to some of the finest antique shops and restaurants, as well as beautiful patio cocktail lounges and dancing spots. The area is also referred to as "The Curve" due to its peculiar shape, unlike that of other parts of the city. This neighborhood also earned the name "gayborhood" because of its many gay bars and the rainbow flags proudly displayed.

Address:

Heritage Square: 113 N 6th St, Phoenix, AZ 85004, USA

Melrose District: 7th Ave between Indian School Rd & Camelback Rd, Phoenix, AZ, USA

Book your stay at Western Lodge Phoenix Airport/Downtown and enjoy comfortable accommodations with easy access to Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport and downtown Phoenix.