A beginner's guide to Phoenix, Arizona

Phoenix sits at the core of the Valley of the Sun. As the fifth-largest metro area in the US, it opts for a more relaxed vibe than its bustling counterparts. Here, sunshine and saguaro cacti take center stage, creating a haven for outdoor lovers.

Adventure awaits hikers, bikers, golfers, and kayakers throughout the Valley, from the White Tank Mountains in the west to the Salt River in the east. There's hardly a bad spot to lounge by the pool in Phoenix, especially when your Instagram feed highlights a bomb cyclone elsewhere. (Enjoy a sip of your margarita every time a local quips, “At least it’s a dry heat!”)

The stunning pink-hued sunsets will leave you breathless, so take a moment to appreciate them before plunging into Phoenix’s vibrant nightlife.

And remember, staying hydrated is key.

Here’s everything you need to know for your inaugural visit to Phoenix.

How long should I stay in Phoenix?

For your first visit, three days will allow you to see a lot. Consider extending to four or five days if you want to take a road trip to the hiking trails in Sedona, explore the ponderosa pines in Flagstaff, or enjoy the often-overlooked culinary scene in Tucson.

A Caucasian male golfer prepares to drive on a stunning desert golf course in Phoenix, Arizona.

Phoenix is a top-notch golfing destination, home to the annual WM Phoenix Open © ImagineGolf / Getty Images

When is the best time to visit Phoenix?

Let’s address the obvious: summers in Phoenix are scorching. We're talking about temperatures reaching 110°F (43°C) or even higher on a typical summer day. While air conditioning keeps indoors comfortable, it can be perilously hot for those wanting to enjoy the great outdoors. To escape the worst heat, plan your visit between late October and early May, and remember to bring layers! Even winter afternoons can have you shedding your jacket.

For those seeking luxury, summer can be a compelling time to visit the Valley. Many resorts and spas offer significant discounts during their slower season, allowing you to enjoy premium accommodations at 20-40% off normal rates, along with added perks. Golf enthusiasts can also find deeply discounted tee times at some of the most stunning courses on the West Coast, but aim for the earliest slots to avoid the heat of the day.

Unlike much of the US, Phoenix shines in winter. Mornings and evenings can be cool, but most days feature sunshine, clear blue skies, and temperatures between 60-70°F (15-21°C). In February, the WM Phoenix Open, known as “The Greatest Show on Grass,” draws golf fans and party-goers from all over the country. This event coincides with Major League Baseball’s Cactus League spring training, running from mid-February to the end of March. If you want to be in the heart of the action, this is the ideal time to visit the Valley. For budget travelers, securing flights and accommodations early is wise, or consider shifting your trip to January or April.

Getting to and navigating around Phoenix

Phoenix is a vast suburban landscape, so plan to rent a car if you want to explore different areas. You can pick one up at Sky Harbor International, the main airport in Phoenix. There's also the smaller Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport on the eastern edge of the Valley, but it mainly serves Allegiant and Sun Country Airlines.

Outside of Old Town Scottsdale and downtown Phoenix, walkable areas are quite limited in Greater Phoenix. A 2016 study by George Washington University even ranked the city 29th out of 30 major American cities for walkability. (Take that, Orlando!)

If you opt out of a rental car and plan to stay in one area, rideshare services like Uber and Lyft will meet your needs just fine.

For more details on transportation options, check out The best ways to get around Phoenix

Two mountain bikers navigate a desert trail near Phoenix, Arizona

Phoenix offers a wealth of outdoor activities that let you experience the stunning Sonoran Desert © Shutterstock / Ray Redstone

Must-See Attractions in Phoenix

Spending time outside is essential. (Unless, of course, it’s blistering hot.) Hiking and golfing top the list of outdoor activities, but since I tend to be more of a grass destroyer than a ball striker, let's focus on hiking.

Camelback Mountain boasts the most popular hiking trail in the Valley for good reason: the breathtaking desert vistas at the summit are truly unforgettable, and it's conveniently located near Scottsdale, Arcadia, and Paradise Valley. (Plus, a fantastic post-hike brunch is just a short drive away!) However, be aware that there are only two trails here, and they are not ideal for beginners. For a broader selection of trails with equally stunning views, check out Dreamy Draw Recreation Area in uptown Phoenix and South Mountain Park & Preserve located south of downtown.

If you embark on a hike at Dreamy Draw, treat yourself afterward to the “Burrata Tomata” pizza at Base Pizzeria: featuring fresh burrata, cherry tomatoes, basil, roasted garlic, and EVOO. It’s a heavenly delight for your palate.

If you choose South Mountain, don’t forget to reapply your sunscreen and visit The Farm at South Mountain for an unforgettable farm-to-table dining experience. In addition to their delightful breakfast spot, Morning Glory Café, the Farm Kitchen provides picnic basket lunches that you can enjoy beneath the pecan trees or on the lawn while playing lawn games. It’s BYOB—bring your own blanket! For a more intimate atmosphere, secure a reservation for dinner under the stars at Quiessence. Note that all three restaurants have limited hours from June to August, so plan accordingly.

If you prefer to soak in the beauty of the Sonoran Desert without working up a sweat, you’ll adore the Desert Botanical Garden. Located just down the street from Phoenix Zoo, this garden showcases over 50,000 plants, including nearly 550 rare and endangered species. Stop by the on-site café for a refreshing prickly pear iced tea as you stroll along two miles (3.2km) of easy trails. When it’s time for dinner, enjoy the sunset from the patio at Gertrude’s, which is nestled in the garden. The Desert Botanical Garden is a local favorite, so be sure to book your tickets ahead of time.

Explore more highlights with All the best things to do in Phoenix

Nighttime traffic flows around Bob Parks' Bronze Horse Fountain in the lively 5th Avenue Shopping district of Old Town Scottsdale.

Old Town Scottsdale stands out as one of the premier nightlife spots in Phoenix © Shutterstock / kenelamb photographics

My top pick for things to do in Phoenix

If your travel plans are flexible, try to time your visit with the first Friday of the month. This way, you can experience First Friday, a vibrant monthly art walk in downtown Phoenix’s Roosevelt Row. This self-guided evening stroll transforms several blocks with art exhibits, live music, food trucks, and local vendors. When you need a break, stop by one of the numerous bars and restaurants along the way. I particularly enjoy Arizona Wilderness and Greenwood Brewing for their delicious local brews and inviting patios. Don’t miss The Churchill either; this shaded courtyard features multiple bars, food stands, and unique shops. Grab a pint, challenge friends to corn hole while waiting for your meal, or head up to the balcony for stunning city views. Bonus: it’s dog-friendly!

If you prefer cocktail bars, hop on the nearby Valley Metro light rail for a quick five-minute ride to three of Phoenix's trendiest spots: Little Rituals (a sparkling gem!), Bitter & Twisted (dark and moody), and Valley Bar (gritty and sometimes a bit sweaty). The ambiance is a bonus; the cocktails are the main event.

Downtown Phoenix offers a lively, laid-back atmosphere. But if you’re looking to elevate your night out, head to Old Town Scottsdale. Here, you’ll find upscale dining, a plethora of bars and clubs, and – if you’re fortunate – a Sonoran hot dog cart to satisfy your late-night cravings.

Keep your spending in check with 18 free (and cheap) things to do in and around Phoenix, Arizona