26 things to do in Phoenix: hikes, history and museums

From hikes to historic sites, you will certainly find no shortage of things to do in Phoenix.


If you want clear sky, it is probably time to book a trip to Phoenix. Nicknamed "The Valley of the Sun", the city is experimenting on3,870 hours of sun Each year, securing its place as one of the sunniest metropolitan areas in the world. You also don't have to travel far to reach the number one on this list. Yuma, Arizona, located just three hours from Phoenix, obtained first place. And ifTons of sun It's not exactly your idea for a while, don't worry. There is a lot ofThings to do in Phoenix This does not imply spending time outside. Below, we will guide you through some of the most popular attractions in the city. Whether you are looking for something fun, something weird or something to do with children, we've been covered.

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Things to do in Phoenix, Arizona

Consult the list below before booking your trip. We have done research on the best of what Phoenix has to offer so that you don't have to do it!

Desert botanical garden

desert botanical garden - things to do in phoenix
Shutterstock / Blainet

The Phoenix Desert Botanical Garden is one of the most famous attractions in all of Arizona. Exhausting over 140 acres, it contains more than 50,000 plants exposed, including 485 rare and threatened species.

In addition to its exhibitions, the garden offers practical and educational workshops for children and adults. These specialized classes are designed to help individuals pursue active interest in their environment. Family walks and activities are also offered all year round. Other on -site attractions include a garden store and a full -service restaurant.

The garden also grants access to the Loop of Loop of Sonora's nature, which offers a fantastic view of the surrounding mountains. The trail operates as an exhibition, bordered by desert plants on which the native population formerly counted for food, drugs and building materials. Hikers will also meet cultural examples of Tohono O'odham, Western Apache and Hispanic households during the trek.

Do not forget to check the butterfly pavilion before leaving. The outdoor structure of 3200 square feet contains thousands of butterflies so that visitors can interact. It also contains a characteristic of water, garden plantations and a nursery space which deserves to be verified.

Address: 1201 N. Galvin Parkway, Phoenix, Az

Phoenix Art Museum

phoenix art museum
Shutterstock / Bondrocketimages

If you are looking to get out of the sun, look no further than the Phoenix Art Museum. In addition to its interior controlled by the climate, the museum presents more than 20,000 works, making it the largest art museum in the southwest of the United States.

Its nine collection areas are home to historical objects, contemporary pieces and photographs, as well as works of art representing American, Latin, Asian, European and native cultures.

The museum also organizes a series of events throughout the year. Conferences, workshops, films and performances help provide a more immersive and practical environment for visitors lying around in the museum.

Address: 1625 North Central Avenue, Phoenix, Az

South Mountain Park and Preserve

south mountain par and preserve in phoenix
Shutterstock / Ansdrone

South Mountain Park contains more than 16,000 acres, making it one of the largest municipal manifolds in the country. Once inside you will find three mountain chains, the Ma Ha Tauk, Gila and Guadalupe, and more than 50 miles ofHiking trails, horse riding and mountain biking.

Keep an eye on a "rock art" during your trek. The area houses thousands of petroglyphs left by the ancient peoples Hohokam.

Dobbins Lookout is another popular destination in the park. At 2,330 feet, it remains the highest point in the area available for the public. Visitors can hike at the top or go by car for a panoramic view released from the valley.

There is also a hidden attraction below. Located in the foothills of South Mountain Park is Mystery Castle, a sprawling structure of 18 rooms and three floors. The house was built byBoyce Luther Gulley In the 1930s, which had moved to Phoenix after receiving a diagnosis of tuberculosis. Her daughter,Mary Lou Gulley, inherited the property after his death and continued to "share" the house by giving guided tours of the castle until its adoption in 2010.

Address: 10919 S. Central avenue, Phoenix, Arizona

Amusement park of the enchanted island

enchanted island amusement park
Shutterstock / Gregory E. Clifford

The enchanted island's amusement park has a little bit of something for everyone, children's carousels with boost-chocs, thrilling walks, and more. There is also an entire section dedicated to toddlers, so parents traveling with small children do not have to worry about lacking things to do. If it is really hot, you can always start in the splash area, which has been specially designed with this age group in mind.

Rest assured, there are also a lot of activities for adults. The amusement park of the Enchanted Island contains 7.5 acres of picturesque navigable lanes, with adventures of pedalos available for those interested in spending time on the water. Although the park is filled with new rides and equipment, the attraction dates back to 1935, when the construction initially started.

Address: 1202 W. Encanto Blvd., Phoenix, Az

Read this then: 28 fun things to do in Salt Lake City.

Museum of Music Instruments

musical instrument museum in phoenix
Shutterstock / Paul R. Jones

The Phoenix Music Instruments Museum contains more than 8,000 musical instruments in more than 200 world countries. Its founder,Bob Ulrich, was determined to refocus conversations surrounding musical history to include instruments of all cultures, not only those inherited from classic Western traditions.

Visits to the museum are intended to be sensory in nature. With the help of interactive media at the cutting edge of technology, guests will have the opportunity to observe these instruments, to hear what they sound and to see them played in their original context.

In addition to the many concerts and musical programs organized throughout the year, the Museum of Music Instruments also hosts children's programs and professional development workshops to help educators improve their musical program.

Address: 4725 E. Mayo Blvd., Phoenix, Az

Fauna world zoo

Wildlife World Zoo in Phoenix
Shutterstock / You touch Pix d'Eutoch

Phoenix's Wildlife Worldlife World contains the largest collection of exotic and threatened animals in Arizona. In addition to the main zoo, the property contains an aquarium and safari park, where visitors can spot animals, including white alligators, baboons, monster fish, etc.

In total, the zoo contains 600 animals, although it offers much more than that. Access to roller coaster, zip lines, daily shows and a children's zoo is all included in the admission price. The other popular advantages include the baby animal crèche, the giraffe feeding station and other wildlife encounters.

Address: 16501 W Northern avenue, Litchfield Park, Az

The Chauve-Souris Cave Phoenix

phoenix bat cave
Twitter / @Thingstodoinphx

It is perhaps not the most obvious stop to spray in the route, but it is one of the most interesting attractions in the city. Each year, thousands of Mexican bats migrate from Phoenix to Mexico. The trip, which takes place between May and October, starts at an abandoned storm drain, which the inhabitants have nicknamed the cave of the Bat Phoenix.

Arrive just before the twilight for the best chances of seeing bats. It is at this moment that they are the most likely to emerge, swirl, gas and dive after insects. You can also scan the area for panels providing more information on these incredible creatures, an addition provided by the Arizona game and fish service.

Address: Intersection of 40th rue and Route Camelback

Arizona Science Center

arizona science center in phoenix
Twitter / @AzScienceCenter

Arizona Science Center has definitely obtained first place on the best things to do in Phoenix with children. Considered a primary educational destination, the center contains a series of permanent exhibitions surrounding the science of theft, physics and nature forces. There is also a planetarium and a theater available to show films in 2D or 3D format.

Make sure to consult the schedule before visiting. Although the permanent programs in the center are well worth admission, it also hosts a series of rotating exhibitions which can appeal to a certain person in your group. The events also take place at the center throughout the year, from STEM programs to engineering fairs, and more.

Address: 600 East Washington Street, Phoenix, Az

Downtown Phoenix

downtown phoenix
Shutterstock / Sean Pavone

Walking in downtown Phoenix is ​​a great way to familiarize yourself with the city. With more than 200 bars and restaurants, 45 cafes and 10 places of live music, you will certainly not miss any things to do.

There are also tons of events at any time. Concerts, karaoke and historical visits are always available, so it cannot hurt to do some research before you venture. You will also find some of the most popular attractions in the city located in the city center, including Arizona Science Center, Children's Museum of Phoenix and ASU Mercado.

While downtown Phoenix is ​​considered one of the most accessible parts on foot in the city, some prefer to cycle or use the tram to move.

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The Pueblo Grande Museum

replicated ancient structure at the pueblo grande museum in phoenix
Shutterstock / Steve Cukrov

The Pueblo Grande Museum was created for the first time in 1929, having been active for more than 90 years. The main attraction revolves around its archaeological park, which presents a short path surrounding the remains of the ball zone and the prehistoric platform of Hohokam. The region would have been settled some time before 500 AD and abandoned around 1450 for reasons which are still unknown.

Other museum attractions include a variety of native plants, replicated housing without appointments and an interpretative agricultural garden that grows cotton, corn, beans, squash and amaranth.

There are also three galleries where visitors can know more about the Hohokam people and their relationship with the surrounding environment. One of these exhibitions was specially designed with children in mind, using practical and interactive exhibitions to detail the archaeological process.

Address: 4619 E. Washington Street, Phoenix, Arizona

Butterfly Wonderland

butterfly wonderland in phoenix
Shutterstock / Tina M Watts

The country of the butterfly wonders is located near Scottsdale and contains more than 70 different species of butterflies. The artificial tropical paradise actually represents one of the largest conservatories of butterflies in North America.

In addition to butterflies, the attraction also houses some Koi fish, tiny tropical pinsons and some chickens. There is also an exhibition of reptiles where customers can get closer and personal with reptiles and amphibians who naturally coexist with butterflies in the tropical forest.

Other essential stations to check before going to cover edible insects, tropical fish, bees and arthropods. Oh, and there is also a 3D theater that is worth checking!

Address: 9500 E. Via de Ventura Scottsdale, Az

Curious nature

things to do in phoenix - visit the curious nature shop
Twitter / @motifapts_phx

If you like your explorations of nature grouped together with the strange and unusual, this next stop is for you. Located in the city center of Phoenix, this emporium of finesse science and natural history offers everything, taxidermia of ethical origin, skulls and bones, exotic plants, collectibles, etc.

People interested in knowing more about what they mean by "ethical origin" can be assured knowing that all taxidermia frames died of natural death, and none have been hunted or killed for the sport. All the artists and suppliers with whom they strictly work with animals that have naturally expired in a farm or in nature. Likewise, most of the bones and skulls found in the store are by-products from the agricultural industry or cultural practices.

Address: 5032 N. Central avenue, Phoenix, Az

Tempe Town Lake

tempe town lake near phoenix
Shutterstock / Digital Masters Imaging

Tempe Town Lake is the second plusPopular public attraction throughout Arizona (Unsurprisingly, the Grand Canyon ranks like the main attraction of the city). The section of two miles was created by jumping part of the dry river and adding water.

Today, the lake offers a variety of recreational activities as well as trails where people can walk, jogging and cycling. Whereasswimming is not an option due to water quality, there are many opportunities for kayaking, paddleboarding, rowing, walking and fishing.

Annual concerts, picnics and festivals such as the Lights Boat Parade of Tempe Fantasy, the Festival des Manches and the Aloha Festival also take place in the region.

Address: 550 E. Tempe Town Lake, Tempe, AZ 85281

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Old Town Scottsdale

old town scottsdale
Shutterstock / Crackerclips Stock Media

Located less than 30 minutes from Phoenix, the old town of Scottsdale offers many historical contributions to explore. The self -guided excursions will present you some of the oldest buildings in the city, the Little Red Schoolhouse, built in 1909 at the Forgeron store which opened its doors in 1910 ..

The other places that deserve to be spotted include speakeasies and hidden spas. Seriously, don't jump on the latter - Scottsdale containsMore destination spas per capita than everywhere else in the country. Once you are done there, you can visit one of the many museums, taps or shopping centers in the region.

You can venture by car or use the cart to get around. There is no costs to roll and the loop takes you to some of the most popular areas in the city.

Phoenix Zoo

cheetah at the the phoenix zoo
Shutterstock / Abdellmmoez Esleem

The Wildlife World Zoo is not the only one in town. The Phoenix zoo has welcomed more than 42 million visitors since its originally opening in 1962. Today, it remains one of the largest non-profit zoos in the United States, with more than 3000 animals of nearly 400 different species.

The zoo is also widely considered for its conservation efforts. In addition to research and work in the field, organizational scientists help to raise and raise native species that they will release later in nature. The zoo also participates in conservation projects that take place in the world.

In addition to animal meetings and presentations, the zoo offers a series of activities, including carousel walks, splash areas and agricultural areas. Education programs and visits are also available all year round.

Address: 455 North Galvin Parkwayphoenix, Az

Legoland discovery center

Legoland Discovery Center in Phoenix
Twitter / @ldcarizona

One of our favorite places to bring children. Seriously, make sure you bring children - you will not be allowed to enter without a few small ones!

Once inside you will find a Lego replica of the most infamous monuments of Arizona, creative workshops, rides, a space to meet your favorite Lego characters, as well as a 4D cinema.

Check the calendar to see if there are special events underway during the period of your visit. There is also a coffee on site when you start lacking steam. And, of course, a gift shop for all those who want to bring back to the Souvenirs.

Address: 5000 S. Arizona Mills Circle, Ste. 135 Tempe, Az

Papago Park

Papago Park - things to do in phoenix
Shutterstock / Gregory E. Clifford

Papago Park is one of the most popular outdoor attractions near Phoenix. Known for its Rouge Frove Training, the park contains several hiking trails which vary in difficulty. The hole path in the wall is probably the most famous, thanks to an intriguing rock formation formerly used by the ancient Hohokam civilization to follow the position of the sun.

The area also contains seven acres of stored fishing lagoons and easy access to several nearby attractions, including the Phoenix zoo, the Papago golf course and the Desert Botanical Garden.

Address: 625 n Galvin Pkwy, Phoenix, Az

Goldfield Ghost Town

goldfield ghost town near phoenix
Shutterstock / Nick Fox

Goldfield Ghost Town is located on the historic path of Apache and was formerly celebrated for its gold extraction operations. Today, visitors can have an overview of what life was once here thanks to costume performers and replicated buildings without appointment.

Other attractions include Goldfield Historic Museum, Golden Panoramic Activities, Staged Rifles, Tir Gallery, Returning Aventures told and guided tours of Apache Trail. There is even a living room and a steakhouse on site where you can enjoy food and drinks before going home.

Address: 4650 n mammoth mine rd, apache junction, az

Camelback mountain

things to do in phoenix - camelback mountain
Shutterstock / Noah Densmore

Camelback Mountain is one of the most amazing outdoor attractions in Phoenix. Located just 20 minutes apart from the city limits, it offers some of the best hikes in the region. The two best known routes are a little difficult, so you should not try to try the trek with anyone who is not ready to take up the challenge.

Cholla Trail and Echo Canyon Trail are extremely stiff and rocky, but it's worth it for the 360 ​​views that you will appreciate from the summit. Current hands are available to help individuals climb to the top. Hikers should also prepare for exposed rocks and hand climbing sections. In total, these excursions take approximately two to three hours.

Of course, there are many other ways to enjoy the mountain without sweating. There are many restaurants, patios and swimming pools dispersed in the area that offer superb views and other incredible experiences.

Address: 4925 E. McDonald Drive, Paradise Valley, AZ 85253

Taliesin West House

taliesin west house
Shutterstock / Leong Kit

The Taliesin West House has already served as a winter house and desert laboratory to the famous American architect,Frank Lloyd Wright. The structure is nestled in the foothills of the McDowell mountain desert, about 20 minutes outside Phoenix.

The house, which is now preserved by the Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation, was created for the first time in 1937 by Wright and his apprentices. Having taken great care to integrate the structure into the desert landscape, the team was able to use local materials to enlarge and modify the space.

Over the years, an editorial studio, a dining room, a workshop, private housing and three theaters have been added to the property. Wright used a series of bridges, terraces, swimming pools and gardens to connect buildings. He also designed all interior furniture and decorations, which were almost entirely on site by his apprentices.

Today, the structure is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a national historic monument. Guided tours are available all year round to explore the house, indoors and outside. Reading clubs, projections and wellness programs are also organized on the property throughout the year.

Address: 12621 n Frank Lloyd Wright Blvd, Scottsdale, Az

Arcosanti of Paolo Soleri

visit the arcosanti in phoenix
Shutterstock / DBSOCAL

If you have not yet obtained your architectural solution, be sure to make your next stop. The site was launched byPaolo Soleri, who had originally come to the region to study under Wright as apprentices.

Although it was originally a workshop where Soleri would create pots, trays and lighting for sale at local galleries, the area was quickly dedicated to architectural tests. Finally, these efforts lead to the construction of the experimental city, Arcosanti.

Today, the community has attracted around 70 full -time residents. Individuals are all attached to the principle of arcology, the merger of architecture and ecology. Guided tours are available to give visitors a better idea of ​​how people coexist. Workshops, conferences and private events also take place on the property. And, hey, if you are really ambitious, you can evenspend the night!

Address: 13555 S Cross L Road, Mayer, Az

Museum

Heard Museum in Phoenix
Shutterstock / Eqroy

Founded in 1929, the Heard Museum has become internationally recognized, the most celebrated to focus on American Indian culture and contemporary art. Its permanent collections range from ancestral artefacts to more modern paintings, jewelry, etc.

Outside, you will find a series of courses with different landscapes, characteristics of water and sculptures. This also includes an amphitheater where music and dance performance generally takes place. Visitors will also benefit from possibilities to participate in various practical activities, from the weaving of pearls to the baskets of APACHE burden and other forms of portable art.

Address: 2301 North Central avenue Phoenix, Az

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Japanese friendship garden

japanese friendship garden in phoenix
Shutterstock / Isabel Eve

Another of the wide outdoor spaces in Phoenix, the Japanese friendship garden extends over three acres. The area also includes an authentic tea garden and tea house. Once inside, visitors will meet more than 50 varieties of plants and 1,500 tonnes of handpicked rocks, stone walkways and lanterns. There is also a 12 -foot cascade and a Koi pond with more than 300 colored fish to take.AE0FCC31AE342FD3A1346EBB1F342FCB

The idea of ​​the garden appeared for the first time in 1987 as a means of consolidating the link between the inhabitants of Phoenix and the residents of their sister city in Himeji, Japan. All the decorative characteristics housed in the garden, which is officially namedRohoen, are in fact gifts from the city of Himeji and its citizens.

Address: 1125 N. 3rd avenue, Phoenix, Az

Flame Temple Fire Museum

Hall of Flame Fire Museum in Phoenix
Twitter / @acollinsphoto

The Hall of Flame Fire Museum in Phoenix contains more than 130 wheeled pieces and 10,000 other objects, all linked to the fight against fires. Some pieces go back to 1725.

The museum was inspired by the personal collection of its founder,George F. Getz, Jr., who first became interested in the fire apparatus after his wife offered him a year of American Lafrance of 1924 for Christmas. With their two sons, the couple continued to collect similar objects from around the world.

Today, the collection includes everything, from motorized pieces to fire alarms, fire extinguishers, helmets, etc. There is also a "hero room" to pay tribute to the firefighters who died in the exercise of his functions and recognize those for certain acts of value.

Address: 6101 e van buren st, phoenix, az

Phoenix children's museum

children's museum of phoenix
Twitter / @childmuse

Recognized as one of the best of its kind throughout the country, the Children's Museum of Phoenix offers more than 48,000 feet of interactive space so that children exercise their imagination, their inspiration and their creativity.

Extending on its three floors, visitors will find more than 300 game experiences as well as special events surrounding music, yoga, mathematics and sciences.

The exhibitions are designed with certain ages in mind, so you don't have to worry about meeting your children to meet everything they are not old enough to manage. Baby areas are also integrated into each exhibition so that people with older children do not have to juggle their time between two exhibition spaces.

Although nursing is authorized throughout the museum, there is a nursing area dedicated to the third floor for those looking for a little more intimacy.

Address: 215 n 7th St, Phoenix, Az

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Penske Racing Museum

penske racing museum
Twitter / @penskemuseum

Phoenix may not be the country of Nascar, but it contains one of the best race teams in the country. The Penske Racing Museum was created to celebrate the history and influence of sport on the region. Today, his collection contains cars, trophies and racing memories that tell more than 50 years of experience in the race and 500 major victories.

Some of the most notable vehicles exposed include a replica of the Pontiac Catalina of 1963 whichRoger Penske led to the victory in the Riverside 250 of 1963. There are also a certain number of Indianapolis race winners of 500 miles, including the Ford of March 1985 whichDanny Sullivan led to the victory in the Indy 500 of this year.

Address: 7125 e Chauncey LN, Phoenix, Az

Wrap

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Faq

What is the main attraction in Arizona?

The Grand Canyon remains the main attraction in Arizona, although there are a few things in Phoenix that arrive in a second close. Tempe Town Lake is the second most visited public attraction in the state. The Mountains of Phoenix also bring millions of visitors each year, as well as its world class museums and areas dedicated to Amerindian heritage.

What is unique about Phoenix?

The city's climate remains one of its most unique aspects. Not only is the Greater Phoenix located in the Sonora desert, one of the wealthiest and most green desserts in North America, but it is also incredibly sunny, with about 3,870 hours of sun each year.

What are the best things to do in Phoenix with children?

Phoenix is ​​an ideal place to visit with children. In fact, it contains some of the most acclaimed attractions for small ones across the country. Some of our favorite places to visit include:

  • The Phoenix children's museum
  • Legoland discovery center
  • Tempe Town Lake
  • Amusement park of the enchanted island
  • The Museum of Music Instruments
  • The Zoo of the Wildlife World
  • Goldfield Ghost Town
  • Arizona Science Center

What are the things you can do in Phoenix with your grandparents?

Phoenix contains some of the most incredible landscapes in the country, but not all are accessible to people with reduced mobility. However, the city offers many activities to senior visitors.

  • The museum heard
  • South Mountain Park
  • The Pueblo Grande Museum
  • Old Town Scottsdale
  • The house of the West West
  • The Japanese Garden of Friendship
  • Papago Park

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