Things to do in Phoenix

THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Phoenix

Things to Do in Phoenix

Check out must-see sights and activities:
Desert Botanical Garden, Musical Instrument Museum, Historic Sites, Nature and Wildlife Tours. For personalised recommendations, try our AI trip-planning product.
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From quick jaunts to full-day outings.

Top Attractions in Phoenix

These rankings are informed by Tripadvisor data—we consider traveller reviews, ratings, number of page views, and user location.

Botanical garden showcasing native cacti and succulents set against picturesque Sonoran desert backdrops. Features diverse wildlife, a butterfly pavilion, and sunset views.
This attraction description was created by AI, using information and phrases commonly found in reviews users submitted to Tripadvisor. Tripadvisor did not create and is not responsible for this description. Please read full traveller reviews for more details and information. If you believe something in this AI-generated description is inaccurate, please share your feedback.

Interactive music museum with over 7,000 global instruments, multimedia exhibits, and a chance to play music in the experience gallery.
This attraction description was created by AI, using information and phrases commonly found in reviews users submitted to Tripadvisor. Tripadvisor did not create and is not responsible for this description. Please read full traveller reviews for more details and information. If you believe something in this AI-generated description is inaccurate, please share your feedback.

Challenging trail with steep inclines and rocky terrain, requiring physical fitness and careful footing. Notable for panoramic views and opportunities for bouldering and scrambling.
This attraction description was created by AI, using information and phrases commonly found in reviews users submitted to Tripadvisor. Tripadvisor did not create and is not responsible for this description. Please read full traveller reviews for more details and information. If you believe something in this AI-generated description is inaccurate, please share your feedback.

Easy-to-navigate hiking trails leading to unique rock formations and panoramic views, with nearby trails for those seeking quieter paths.
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Museum with a focus on Native American art and history, featuring exhibits on indigenous culture, a courtyard cafe, and authentic crafts in the gift shop.
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Desert oasis with tranquil ponds and scenic trails leading to the Hole in the Rock; ideal for hiking, picnics, and photography amidst a botanical backdrop.
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Indoor ballpark featuring variety in dining, comfortable seating with clear views, unique amenities like a pool, and engaging tours. Ideal for a relaxed game day.
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Historic mansion showcasing original furnishings, art, and gardens, inviting exploration post-tour. Notable for its sunset dinners and player piano, amidst a backdrop of engaging family history.
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Other Top Attractions around Phoenix




*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 travellers are saying

  • Kim In Roc
    Rochester, NY49 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Lovely spot to enjoy the sunshine and learn about the Sonoran Desert! The butterfly and orchid exhibits were very nice. A beautiful place to spend an afternoon.
    Written March 22, 2025
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Kaosma
    14 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    We stopped by randomly and wasn't sure what to expect. It was a surprisingly good time. We spent 2 hours at the museum and only left because it was closing. The headset that automatically plays as you walk through really make the experience immersive. I typically do not like museums and found this one fascinating.
    Written March 22, 2025
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • CanuckAlberta
    Alberta738 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    I am an older guy but in pretty good shape and I found Camelback challenging. We started at Echo Canyon trailhead and did the entire route over to the Cholla trailhead. If you want to hike the entire trail I would recommend this direction as the Echo Canyon is tougher with much more scrambling so you might as well get the toughest part over with first. There is less scrambling as you descend down the Cholla trail. At the top the view is amazing and a just reward for your effort. If you are looking for the way to the summit with the least effort I would recommend approaching from Cholla trailhead, hike to the summit, and then retrace your steps back to Cholla. That being said Cholla only offers on street parking along Invergordon Rd and the trail head is not that well marked. There is a restroom, bike racks, and water at the Cholla trailhead as well. I am glad I did the hike but would caution anyone who is not in great shape, does not have proper hiking shoes, or cannot tolerate heat to maybe look for an alternative.
    Written February 19, 2025
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • LAC
    97 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    It's a relatively easy walk, not even much of a climb, and you get to check out the views from the hole. It really isn't that high, as the pictures might have you believe. 10-15 walk from the parking lot.
    Written February 1, 2025
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • jonberman1
    Houston, TX26 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Museum focusing on Native American exhibits. My visit was very unique, as I had never before been to or even heard of a full museum which specializes in this area. The exhibit on boarding schools was moving and effective. The buildings themselves are also gorgeous.
    Written February 14, 2025
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Mida H
    53 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    Make sure you are on the correct side of the park if you’re looking for the hole in the rock. This East Coast girl had never been to the west. It was an easy hike, clean and a beautiful place.
    Written November 23, 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • GastroEclectico
    Phoenix, AZ1,728 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    Every few years we make it a point to visit the Holiday Extravaganza at the Phoenix Zoological gardens known as ‘Zoo Lights’… a fabulous menagerie of lights, sounds, counterfeit lit animals and reptiles and many an artificial something or other set alight and sparkling - things that crawl, slither, creep, fly, swing and attract one’s attention either in a subtle or ubiquitous manner or in an extraordinarily, fantastic and unequaled phantasmagorical in your face means. This place can be one of the most fascinating places to visit in the Valley of the Sun, especially when taking a two-year-old or any Youngster on his or her first ecological, nature rendering, visually stimulating and young mind-bending excursion – not to mention a youngsters’ view of the light show in their mind seeming psychedelicish. One takes the whole worldview from a different perspective, that of learning things for the first time and trying to comprehend it – or pure amazement. Even for adults this fantasia will be awesome. It’s hard to imagine that in many ways we have Maytag washer sales to thank for this wonderful Zoo in Phoenix. Way back in 1961, Robert E. Maytag, the grandson of the Maytag Founder got some folks together with the suggestion of a zoo in Phoenix – 63 years later a fantastic Zoo and Zoo Lights! Phoenix is proud. We have our flagship zoo for research, entertainment and ecology, and then some. This is a most fascinating place to visit. Zoo Lights is an opportune time, but anytime of the year it is just fabulous. Kudos patrons, staff, management and donors!
    Written February 17, 2025
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • nader p
    Edmonton, Canada236 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Everything was working and clean! If you are going to an event here bring your own water bottle as everything is very expensive!
    Written September 19, 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Peter K
    Hurricane, UT882 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    We took the 2 pm tour on 1/8/25 which apparently starts slightly after 2 pm per the docent. There were about 14 people on the tour. The docent did a very good job, telling the history of the mansion, the Wrigley family and the Hormel family. The tour lasted about 1 our, after which you can explore the rooms you previously visited or have some wine at the wine bar (opens at 3 pm).
    Valet parking is included in your ticket, but the Valets don't show up until 2:30 pm, so you leave your car in the valet area and your keys with the hostess and they park it after they arrive. You can also park in the lower lot (self parking) and walk up to the mansion. The steps and walk up are very steep.
    The tour was $25 pp and the docent will accept tips but they are not required.
    We thought it was a very good tour.
    Written January 13, 2025
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • phvi2617
    Anaheim, CA752 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    This is a very nice art museum featuring a wide variety of works. In addition to many interesting contemporary pieces, it has a great collection of American art as well as a decent collection of European works. Unfortunately the Asian art gallery was undergoing renovations, but I really enjoyed the small but interesting exhibition on surrealist Philip C. Curtis. Admission is a little pricey for an institution of its size, but the Phoenix Art Museum is still worth a visit.
    Written February 16, 2025
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Tweety
    Phoenix, AZ2 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    HELPFUL TIPS: bring a fanny pack to hold your wallet, phone, inhaler all that stuff you may need because bags are not allowed in the climbing structure, you can leave your bags in their crates but they allow fanny packs up inside as long as they're around the waist, they have an awesome 3s and under room but it is exactly that, a THREES AND UNDER, your 7 year old child will not be allowed in there so if you have another adult with you they can take them into the art room just across the way, if its just you, your toddler and an older child you’re gonna have to skip that room because they wont be allowed in, don't forget to visit their garden area the kids get to make sand castles and water flowers, theres also a firetruck out there. Its located inside the restaurant on the second floor.
    Written January 17, 2025
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Shanise Y
    Phoenix, AZ1 contribution
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    South Mountain Park is a must-visit if you’re in Phoenix! It offers breathtaking views of the city and has a variety of hiking trails for all levels. We hiked up to Dobbins Lookout, and the panoramic view from the top was absolutely stunning. The trails are well-maintained, and there are plenty of spots to stop and take in the scenery.

    If you go, make sure to bring plenty of water, especially during warmer months. The sunset views from the park are also incredible! Whether you’re into hiking, biking, or just enjoying nature, this place is perfect. Highly recommended!
    Written March 9, 2025
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
When to Visit
  • January
    13 ºC
    Coldest month
    3 days of rain
    Very busy
    Busiest month
  • February
    15 ºC
    3 days of rain
    Very busy
  • March
    18 ºC
    3 days of rain
    Very busy
  • April
    23 ºC
    1 day of rain
    Moderately busy
  • May
    28 ºC
    1 day of rain
    Less busy
  • June
    33 ºC
    1 day of rain
    Less busy
    Least busy month
  • July
    35 ºC
    Hottest month
    4 days of rain
    Less busy
  • August
    34 ºC
    6 days of rain
    Wettest month
    Less busy
  • September
    31 ºC
    3 days of rain
    Moderately busy
  • October
    24 ºC
    2 days of rain
    Very busy
  • November
    17 ºC
    2 days of rain
    Moderately busy
  • December
    13 ºC
    3 days of rain
    Moderately busy
The above attraction descriptions were created by AI, using information and phrases commonly found in reviews users submitted to Tripadvisor. Tripadvisor did not create and is not responsible for any of the above attraction descriptions. Please read full traveller reviews for more details and information.
Reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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