Things to Do in Phoenix, AZ - Phoenix Attractions
Things to Do in Phoenix
Popular things to do
Book these experiences for a close-up look at Phoenix.
Top Attractions in Phoenix
Speciality Museums
Desert Ridge
Speciality Museums • Art Museums
Encanto
Mountains
Camelback East
Arenas & Stadiums
Central City
Children's Museums
Central City
Nature & Wildlife Areas • Hiking Trails
Camelback East
*Likely to sell out: Based on Viator’s booking data and information from the provider from the past 30 days, it seems likely this experience will sell out through Viator, a Tripadvisor company.
What travelers are saying
- Celeste RSan Antonio, TX52 contributionsI wasn't sure how a Desert Botanical Garden was going to be but I was pleasantly surprised. This garden has a nice selection of regional plants that grow in this rough area. They use their space well and have trails woven all around. They have some shade and benches for resting. Glad I went right when it opened so I could explore before it got too hot.
There are water refill stations all throughout the Garden. This actually made the trip for me. I didn't have to return to a specific area to refill my water. In 90+ dry heat, that made all the difference. I was able to stay on the trails and explore more of the area.
Parking was great and easy.
Staff was friendly
Water refills were easy
Easily worth 2-3 hoursWritten May 30, 2023This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. - Celeste RSan Antonio, TX52 contributionsI thought I could tour this museum in the three hours prior to going to the airport. I arrived when the museum opened and spent the first two hours just on the first floor! This is a highly interactive museum and you will need more than 3 hours. I will have to go back. I love music and the instruments. This collection didn't disappoint in any area. You are given a headset when you start your tour which makes the museum nicely quiet. There was a kids class going on during my visit so that helped liven up the first floor. I would love to catch a concert here on my next visit.
Parking was abundant. Museum was easy to get to.
Food smelled good through I didn't have time to partake.
Gift shop had lots of items from what I could see as I was running out the door with zero minutes to spare.Written May 30, 2023This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. - Celeste RSan Antonio, TX52 contributionsThe Heard Museum has a wonderful collection of Indigenous artifacts and a stunning art collection. From the statue gallery out front to the rotating exhibits, everything is well curated. I hadn't planned a trip to the museum prior to my Phoenix trip but I was pleasantly surprised with museum and staff. I'll start with the staff first, I arrived at a not-busy time so I was able to get a ticket quickly. I walked to the museum so I had a backpack which is not allowed. They had lockers available for me and graciously had one open and waiting for me as soon as I walked up. Once inside the museum a gentleman talked to me a bit about how the museum flowed and suggested I take the tour that was starting in 5 minutes. Great suggestion, the docent was very knowledgeable and walked us through the Home part of the exhibits.
I learned a lot about the local tribes, way of life. I enjoyed the Art exhibits throughout. I was educated and appalled at the Boarding School exhibit. The traveling exhibit during my visit was about Native Hawaiian surfing and art.
Things I generally add to reviews:
Parking lot was decent size. I think on a busy weekend, it might get crowded
Restaurant onsite was good. It was too hot for coffee so I skipped the coffee shop
Museum shop is a stunning collection of art and jewelry. Definitely worth a stop.
Bonus: They have a well developed app that you can use as you walk through the exhibits to get more information. I was pleasantly surprised at the content within the app.Written May 30, 2023This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. - DevyoungSan Diego, CA155 contributionsGreat way to get outside!
We did the Chollas Trail. The 1st 1/2 is fairly straightforward - some steeper parts and a bit rocky at times, but mostly a trail that is easy to follow. The 2nd half becomes much more technical - much rockies with a less distinguished trail. At times some people use their hands to help get up. About 1/2 the people who "knew" wore gloves.
Took about 1 hour to get uo (with pictures, etc...) and about 45 minutes to get down. 2 hours in total with pics, etc at the top.
Also - easy to get ubers to/from. Very convenient from Scottsdale.Written May 10, 2023This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. - GoHawksAnkenyIowaAnkeny, IA525 contributionsWe’re there for 2 games. we parked in recommended space on diamondback website for parking outside the stadium for $20. As we drove up I saw other spots for $20-25. I wouldn’t park in the parking garage as you will be stuck in traffic after the game.
Lots of food options in the stadium. Go check out the swimming pool and hot tub in center field. Park employees were very personable. It was nice the roof was closed and temperature was very reasonable.Written May 30, 2023This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. - Jamie4 contributionsFirst piece of advice for people who haven't been yet.
DON'T go on a Saturday night.
The place is beautiful but sadly you don't go there to take in the views and relax. Too many people bring loud kids who go around yelling. Then as soon as it gets to blue hour, people start showing up with their car windows open blaring their music. Seems to be a big hangout for teenagers and adults wanting to show off their sound systems.
And don't even bother trying to use the restrooms.Written May 8, 2023This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. - Brian and Jenni... L1 contributionThis was a fun few minute walk to see a great view.. We went during the middle of the day, but I can only imagine how the view would be at Sunrise or SunsetWritten April 24, 2023This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- Paul SBurford, UK17 contributionsIf you’re in Phoenix and half a couple of free hours you could do a lot worse than visit the Hall of Flame! The artistry in many of the restorations is extraordinary and the engineering of some of the early pumps is incredible; I was fascinated by the coming together of excellent engineering and brilliant artwork and that’s before you get into the history of fire fighting. An excellent couple of hours well worth the trip regardless if you have any links to firefighting or not.Written May 29, 2023This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- FuntimestravelinArizona93 contributionsSuch a great place. Our grandson especially loved the bikes in the garden area but all aspects were great. The climbing maze when you arrive, the air tunnels that blew scarves, and my personal favorite, the car wash.Written March 24, 2023This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- wanderweggeistAnacortes, WA41 contributionsAn eclectic collection, with some high-quality works. The building itself is interesting, if the lay-out is a bit confusing. We focused on Western and desert works, given the location in the southwest.Written May 3, 2023This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- Northernprairiedog4Duluth, MN98 contributionsA can’t miss hike to the top. It’s a grind but worth it. My fit daughter and her old dad made the trek. We are experienced hikers having conquered hikes like Angels Landing but this one was tough in a different way. Straight up and constant bouldering. Caught it on a nice 55 degree morning. Tip: get to the parking lot by 8, we arrived a 7:45 and easily got into auxiliary lot for Echo Canyon. We finished the hike 1hr 42min after a nice break to take on the views of Scottsdale/ Phx. Amazing morning. *know what you are getting into, have proper shoes (ideally hiking boats or trail shoes w/grip), & plenty of water. Get after it and do a pace that works for you.Written March 30, 2023This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- JSWKingsfieldSeattle, WA209 contributionsThe area around the Hole In The Rock is a nice way to experience the desert topography without having to venture too far from civilization. The trail up to the Hole is maintained but fairly steep, the path is natural dirt w/many rocks, people with mobility issues may find it too challenging. Pleasant fishing ponds have covered areas which are good places to rest and picnic/hobnob with friends. Bathrooms are available here, as well as drinking fountains. Beautiful views from The Hole, very popular early in the morning and for sunset.
Nearby are the Phoenix Zoo and the Desert Botanical Garden, both of which are gems.Written March 18, 2023This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. - Abrianna C4 contributionsBeautiful views especially during sunrise and sunset. Lots of stairs and great for getting the heart pumping. May be lucky to see chuckwallas or ringtails. Bring plenty of water.Written May 22, 2023This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- beachnboat67Buffalo, NY269 contributionsVery nice large zoo. Plenty of animals, plenty of walking. We went in April and by the middle of the day most animals were seeking shade. As were the humans!!! Be sure to bring sunscreen and an insulated waterbottle!!Written April 20, 2023This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- Kathy MHuntley, IL263 contributionsEnjoyed an AMAZING evening of Pink Martini & symphony. Sound is excellent, seats a bit snug, but comfy, Pink Martini & China Forbes were (as usual) fabulous.Written April 7, 2023This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Frequently Asked Questions about Phoenix
- The top attractions to visit in Phoenix are:
- Musical Instrument Museum
- Desert Botanical Garden
- Camelback Mountain
- Heard Museum
- South Mountain Park
- The best outdoor activities in Phoenix according to Tripadvisor travelers are:
- Desert Botanical Garden
- Echo Canyon Trail and Recreation Area
- Camelback Mountain
- Phoenix Mountain Preserve
- South Mountain Park
- The best day trips from Phoenix according to Tripadvisor travelers are:
- Small-Group Deluxe Grand Canyon with Sedona Day Trip from Phoenix
- Grand Canyon with Sedona and Oak Creek Canyon Van Tour
- 3 Cities & Nature Tour. Shop, Art, History, Food. Scottsdale, Phoenix, & Tempe.
- Small Group Sedona Red Rock and Native American Ruins Day Tour
- Custom Grand Canyon Day Trip
- The most popular things to do in Phoenix with kids according to Tripadvisor travelers are:
- Western Destinations Canyon Creek Ranch - Tours
- Arizona Scenic Tours - Day Tours
- Westwind Air Service
- 2 Fly Us Hot Air Balloon Rides - Private Flights
- Equinox Hot Air Balloon Rides