While Phoenix, Arizona, may not seem like the obvious destination choice for tourists and travelers, facts and figures prove otherwise- 19.5 million people visited Phoenix in 2022, of which nearly 1 million were international travelers.
The majority of visitors to Phoenix opted for day or overnight visits.
The state has over 22 Native American Tribes, out of which several are located in Phoenix, making it a rich cultural hub. If you want to experience the culture and customs of different people, we recommend making a pit stop at some of these cultural sites.
However, along with its rich history, Phoenix offers an extensive natural landscape and several modern attractions that usually spread out into Scottsdale.
To discover all the top things to do in Phoenix and Scottsdale and the best trips and tricks to execute a fun-filled trip, continue reading!
The Best Times To Visit Phoenix and Scottsdale
Before diving into the top places to explore in Phoenix, it is important to note the best time to visit and explore this city, which will vary according to your requirements.
The best time to visit is usually around the winter or springtime, specifically from March to May or December to February. During these months, the city offers an enjoyable sunny weather experience that allows for unforgettable outdoor adventures. Don’t forget to pack some sunscreen to remain protected against harsh sunrays while you enjoy the outdoors!
However, because Phoenix offers comfortable sunny weather during these months as opposed to other cities with harsh rainstorms and cold, you can expect a price hike during these months.
Therefore, if you aim to explore Phoenix on a budget, it is recommended to visit during the summers when prices usually fall due to fewer visitors because of the intense weather. However, it is still enjoyable if you take the right precautions.
If you are a foodie who wants to get a taste of the Arizonan cuisine, you must visit in the Fall when the Arizona Restaurant Week takes place in September. This festival boasts over 100 eateries that offer mouth-watering dishes at reasonable prices.
The Top 3 Places and Activities To Check-Off in Phoenix and Scottsdale!
1. Take a Waltz Through the Kierland Commons!
If you want to execute an exhilarating shopping spree, Kierland Commons is the place to go. It is the perfect way to experience a shopping adventure, starting from Phoenix and going to Scottsdale.
The attractive feature of Kierland Commons is that it is a shopping district that offers different kinds of shops- including luxury brands like Chanel, interior design shops, and trendy bars and restaurants where you can take a break to cool off.
Moreover, when exploring the Kierland Commons, there will be no need to take the bus or car- it is the most enjoyable way to get your steps in.
The exact address of Kierland Commons is 15205 N Kierland Blvd Suite 150, Scottsdale, AZ 85254, and it is open from 10 AM to 8 PM, although it closes at 6 PM on Sunday.
2. Hike Across Phoenix and in Papago Park
If you want to see the best views in Phoenix, we recommend hiking through the rough terrain of Papago Park in the well-known Phoenix warmth, which will lead to the beautiful result of incredible views.
One of the most authentic experiences that both Phoenix and Scottsdale have to offer is the incredible hiking opportunities in the exotic deserts, and to avail the best experience, we recommend investing in experts to guide you, like the Wild Bunch Desert Guides.
Moreover, suppose you are a nature enthusiast and want to enjoy plants from around the world. In that case, the ‘Desert Botanical Garden’ within Papago Park is a must-see! This garden covers 180 acres of land and offers an exotic experience where, in certain parts, you can even witness Hummingbirds. The Desert Botanical Garden has a ticket price, so check out the updated prices before you go.
The exact address of Papago Park is 625 N Galvin Pkwy, Phoenix, AZ 85008, and it is open daily from 5 AM to 11 PM.
3. A Luxury Experience at the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess
If you want to get away from experiences that require sweat and effort and instead boast of luxury and prestige, we recommend stopping at Fairmont Scottsdale Princess Resort.
This resort has everything you need to unwind: a spa, entertainment, good food, pools, and shopping opportunities. Not only that, but the aesthetic of the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess will allow you to feel festive and fancy, so make sure to dress up!
The exact address of the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess is 7575 E Princess Dr, Scottsdale, AZ 85255.
Conclusion
Although there are many more adventures to embark on when you visit Phoenix, we have provided the perfect starter pack to experience Phoenix’s food, culture, nature, and shopping aspects on an overnight or day trip!
Moreover, if you plan on making a road trip to Phoenix, we recommend planning well to avoid letting exhaustion and inconveniences take away the fun!