Honestly, Phoenix wasn’t next on my travel list until a friend shared their experience. The way they described it sounded fun and honestly, nothing like the Phoenix I had imagined. I didn’t expect the desert to feel so exhilarating, but it truly exceeded my expectations.
So, Sam, my longtime friend and I packed our bags and booked a flight to Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport. With a long bucket list of things to do in Phoenix, Arizona, we headed straight to our Airbnb in Arcadia, excited to see what the desert had in store for us.
Here is what all well did on our 2 Week trip, along with recommendations you can follow if you are going with family and kids-
Things to do in Phoenix Arizona for Nature lovers
- The majestic Desert Botanical Garden
To tick out the very first thing on our bucket list, we had to see what the desert was all about. It was my very first time seeing the desert up close. In my head the desert was all about nothingness. But to my surprise, it was full of life. Not to miss the towering saguaros, which are nothing like you have ever seen before.
- Hike Camelback Mountain at Sunrise
I was going to head of myself, not gonna lie, it was giving me a hard time. But getting to the top was surreal and relieving at the same time. The whole city is right beneath you, and no, you are not the only one doing it; you will find locals just casually taking a stroll.
- Kayak on the Salt River
The most unexpected views, and so unlike what you would imagine a hot desert to be. Calming waters and a small group of wild horses at the edge of the water. Get to experience nature without huge crowds.
- Check the Grand Canyon Off Your Bucket List
I mean, is there even a question of not visiting the iconic Grand Canyon? From the photos, postcards, and wallpapers to seeing it in real life was definitely an unforgettable moment. This will definitely make you appreciate nature at its vastness.
- Tour Taliesin West
Making a swift shift from the desert landscape to masterpiece architecture. Built by Frank Lloyd Wright as his winter home, studio, and architectural laboratory. With its open courtyards, the geometric lines of this building deserve all your attention.
Things to do in downtown Phoenix for a local experience
- Explore Roosevelt Row Arts District
Travel like a pro with these Things to do in downtown Phoenix. With recommendations from Sam, getting to have local experiences was super easy. I personally love all things artsy, and this street called out to me. You will find massive murals, indie shops, small galleries, and cozy cafés along the way.
- Get your artsy hats on at Phoenix Art Museum
Continuing to fuel my creativity with artistic expression. Not just one but multiple exhibits await you; it might be different each time. When I was there, I got to see contemporary installations and fashion exhibits.
- Get entertained attend a theater or performance night
To slow things down with our Things to do in downtown Phoenix list, we attend the Orpheum Theatre. This place had an old-world charm that transported us to another era.
- Grab a bite at Barrio Café
What do you say? Authentic Mexican food. Yes, I am here for it. A fulfilling meal full of flavours, unforgettable. We loved Enchiladas Suizas and Tacos Camarón. For Things to do in downtown Phoenix, food is what I personally look forward to.
- Hike Easy Trails at Papago Park
A fun, super easy, and beginner-friendly hike. We had to hike up to Hole-in-the-Rock, which took only about 10–15 minutes. The opening hour Trails is 5 AM. to 11 PM You can find yourself standing inside the natural rock opening and looking over the desert landscape. This has to be a top-tier experience in Things to do in downtown Phoenix.
Fun things to do with family in Phoenix if you are curious
- Know Native American history at the Heard Museum
If you want to know more about history and have informed conversations, then this should be on your list of Fun things to do with family in Phoenix. It is important to know a place in its entirety and this is it.
- Visit the Encanto Park
After a heart-touching tour of the Heard Museum. Head out to Encanto Park. This is a typical family outing and a relaxing experience in Fun Things to Do with family in Phoenix. A Big family park with a lagoon for boating, playgrounds, picnic spots, and even an Enchanted Island Amusement Park.
- OdySea Aquarium
If you are feeling the hot weather affecting your outdoor plans, then this place is next on the Fun things to do with family in Phoenix. An immersive aquarium, where you are surrounded by marine life and experiences.
- Great Arizona Puppet Theater
For some evening entertainment, here is another one on Fun Things to Do with family in Phoenix. It’s simple yet magical, making you appreciate the effort that goes into these shows.
- Ride the McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park
Let the childhood nostalgia take over you. Somethings you do to heal your inner child, and this definitely was that.
Kid-friendly things to do in Phoenix for keeping the young ones entertained
- Explore the Arizona Science Center
When it comes to Kid-friendly things to do in Phoenix, you will find a lot of fun options. Interactive exhibits, science experiments, and a lot of cool space, physics, and technology stuff.
- Splash & Play at Oasis Water Parks
You cannot miss out on a water park when you are thinking of things to do in Phoenix with kids. Places like Big Surf Waterpark have kid-friendly wave pools and lazy rivers, a perfect break from desert heat.
- Visit the Arizona Zoo
Any child or adult would want to be a part of these Kid-friendly things to do in Phoenix. Get you see animals like giraffes and peacocks. You can Book Tickets here.
- Children’s Museum of Phoenix
I did not expect to come across so many things to do in Phoenix with kids. This is a Play-based museum for kids that encourages creativity and imagination.
- Horseback riding to get all the energy back
If you and your kids love farm animals and horse riding, this activity on Kid-friendly things to do in Phoenix is a must. You can ride horses at MacDonald’s Ranch and spend a whole evening having fun.
Conclusion
This trip has impacted me in ways I never thought. I had low expectations, really, but with Sam alone, I was able to visit all the tourist spots and also see the local life and food. It’s a gorgeous mix between desert life and calm.
FAQs
- Things to do in Phoenix City?
Must do things in Phoenix City are- Hike Camelback Mountain, Kayak on the Salt River, Visit the Grand Canyon, and explore Roosevelt Row Arts District.
- What things to do in Phoenix, Arizona for adults?
Glow kayaking at Tempe Town Lake, Day trips to Sedona, and grab a bite at Barrio Café.
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