Phoenix, Arizona is a metropolis located in the heart of Sonoran Desert. It is quite large and comprised of many towns all offering many activities, restaurants and lodging. In this list, I share places where I have been and which I recommend most. I hope to make your visit to the Phoenix area a bit easier.
Map
Sections
3
Food
Places to Visit
Lodging
Food
Places I have visited in the Phoenix area and my review
The restaurant itself isn't much to look at. However, botht the food and the service was excellent. I would go again.
RAYOOG CAFE, Gilbert
This is a fun (and pretty) place to grab a bite to eat
Las Sendas Golf Club - Club House (Mesa)
It was okay.
SUNNYSIDE BREAKFAST LOUNGE, Mesa
Regular American fare for Bfast (and lunch)
WHAT'S CRACKIN CAFE, Mesa
Not only is the gelato the most delicious, the presentation is also a feast for the eyes.
FROST A GELATO SHOPPE, Phoenix
This is one of the 3 restaurants at The Farm (see places below for more info). It is really cute and serves delicious fares (farm to table). A favorite when I am in Phoenix.
MORNING GLORY CAFE, Phoenix
This is the second of 3 restaurants at the Farm. This one serves lunches in picnic baskets. You can then eat at a table or bring a blanket. It's a favorite spot of mine for sure.
THE FARM KITCHEN, Phoenix
A dinner only restaurant in a beautiful local which serves delicious and beautiful food (farm to table style). This is the 3rd restaurant on The Farm (see below in Places to Visit for more info.)
QUIESSENCE, Phoenix
Places to Visit
Places I have visited and my reviews
I think this is a place to see. It's quite quaint and it is free to see.
Cosanti
This is a beautiful zoo. My children enjoyed it a lot.
Phoenix Zoo
My kids loved it when we went.
Pioneer Arizona Living History Museum
I absolutely love this place. The pizza is amazing (the chef is Sicilian and knows his sourdough). I love the atmosphere and the oil is also amazing.
Queen Creek Olive Mill
This is a wonderful regional park if you want to enjoy the desert lanscape
Cave Creek Regional Park
It would be really fun to do with young children if you don't mind crowds. I am glad I went.
Desert Farm Lights
It's cute but I would not go again. The garden is next to a lot of fun activities though (as in, in the same place): games, mini golf, food, etc. It's a bit too busy for my taste but it would be a great place for families.
Queen Creek Botanical Gardens
The best used book store I have ever been to. It's HUGE and has a LOT of books. A marvelous find for the book lover.
The Book Gallery - Phoenix
The best plant store ever. First, it's quite and beautiful. Second, the staff is uh-mazing, seriously. Third, there is an outdoor oasis where one can sit and enjoy the beauty AND enjoy a tea, coffee, and/or pastry from the coffee bar.
Pueblo Life (Plant Store) - Phoenix
A farm in the middle of the city lush and inviting. It is a beautiful spot with 3 restaurants, a place for events, a farm, gardens, and a store. It does close during the Summer months.
The Farm at South Mountain - Phoenix
Lodging
Airbnbs & Hotels and my reviews.
A lovely guest house. It was quiet, quite attractive, and the owner allowed a one night rental. It was also cheaper than any hotels/motels in the area.
Guesthouse in Queen Creek
This is a fancy resort in the Phoenix area. They do offer deep discount during the summer months.
SANCTUARY CAMELBACK MOUNTAIN (Paradise Valley, AZ)