Top 7 Things to Do in Phoenix, Arizona
Our favorite places for art, music, nature and sports.
Get to know the cosmopolitan side of Arizona in Phoenix where there is an activity for every interest. Here are the top seven things to do.
1. Taliesin West
Why go: Walk around architect Frank Lloyd Wright’s winter home where he spent time from 1937-59.
Tip: Tours book up fast, so reservations are strongly recommended for all tours.
2. Desert Botanic Gardens
Why go: Stop here to stroll the gardens. To see night-blooming plants, do an evening Flashlight Tour.
Tip: Bring your own flashlight or buy one at the Garden Shop and then hit the trails at your own pace.
3. Phoenix Art Museum
Why go: Home to the works of Ansel Adams, Frida Kahlo and Claude Monet, this is the largest fine art museum in the Southwest.
Tip: Don’t miss the Dorrance Sculpture Garden.
4. Camelback Mountain
Why go: Hike up 1,200 feet for fantastic views of the city and Phoenix Mountains Preserve.
Tip: Get started really early in the morning and bring sunscreen, lots of water and a hat to beat the heat.
5. Heard Museum
Why go: Discover engaging Native American stories and world-class collections.
Tip: Allow time to relax in the courtyard and coffee shop. The museum is a short distance from the light rail in downtown Phoenix.
6. Musical Instrument Museum
Why go: Create your own tour of the world and its people through the lens of music at this amazing museum.
Tip: Wear the museum’s headphones to get the most out of your experience. The audio accompanying each display plays automatically as you approach an exhibit.
7. Chase Field
Why go: Catch a game with the Arizona Diamondbacks in this facility that is air-conditioned when the roof is closed. Yes, the stadium’s roof is retractable!
Tip: Check the team’s website to find out if the roof will be closed. The state-of-the-art roof opens and closes in a little over four minutes.