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If You’re Visiting Me, We’re Going Here (Phoenix & Surrounding Cities)
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items Arizona has so much more to offer than most people realize, and I love that there's always something to explore. From desert landscapes and scenic hiking trails to museums, historic towns, and some of the most incredible natural wonders in the countr...
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Outdoors
Museums
Outdoors (if you don't mind the drive)
Outdoors
One of my favorite things about Phoenix is how diverse the scenery is. Between the desert landscapes, red rock formations, mountain trails, and beautiful lakes, there's no shortage of places to get outside and explore. These are the spots I'd recomme...
My top recommendation for anyone who wants to experience the Sonoran Desert without going on a strenuous hike. The towering saguaros, distinctive desert plants, and beautiful walking trails make it worth visiting, especially around sunset.
Desert Botanical Garden (Phoenix)
This is one of my favorite recommendations for an easy outdoor stop with classic Arizona scenery. The red rock formations are beautiful, and the short walk to Hole-in-the-Rock offers a great view of the Valley. Plus, if you're going to the Desert Bot...
Papago Park & Hole in the Rock (Phoenix)
If you want panoramic views of Phoenix, this is the spot. You can drive up to the overlook instead of hiking all the way, making it a great option for sunset or for visitors who want the views without breaking a sweat.
Dobbins Lookout (South Phoenix)
Museums
If you want to learn more about history, art, culture, and natural environment, these are the museums I'd put on your itinerary. They're also great options for escaping the summer heat while still experiencing something memorable.
I'd recommend this to anyone interested in Indigenous art, history, and cultures of the American Southwest. Its exhibits offer a meaningful perspective on the Native peoples and artistic traditions that are central to Arizona's history.
Heard Museum (Central Phoenix)
Even if you're not a musician, I highly recommend stopping here to learn about instruments from around the world. The museum gives patrons the ability to listen to them through the museum's interactive audio system.
Musical Instrument Museum (North Phoenix)
An interactive museum that's especially good for families or curious visitors. It features hands-on exhibits and immersive science experiences for most ages.
Arizona Science Center (Downtown Phoenix)
Outdoors (if you don't mind the drive)
Some of Arizona's most incredible scenery is a few hours (or more) from Phoenix, but I think it's absolutely worth exploring beyond the Valley. These are the destinations I'd recommend if you're up for a day trip, a weekend getaway, or a longer road ...
If you're visiting Arizona for the first time, this is the big one. The scale of the canyon is difficult to appreciate until you see it in person, and even a few hours spent visiting the overlooks makes for an unforgettable experience.
Grand Canyon National Park (Northern Arizona)
Sedona is one of my first recommendations for anyone wanting a scenic Arizona getaway. The red rock formations are stunning, and you can spend your time hiking, browsing art galleries, exploring local shops, or enjoying the stunning surrounding scene...
Red Rock State Park (Sedona, AZ)
The enormous sandstone buttes and wide-open desert views are some of the most iconic scenery in the American Southwest. It's a longer road trip, but an incredible choice for visitors who want a truly memorable landscape and a chance to learn about Na...
Monument Valley (Northern Arizona)
If you want to see the classic Arizona landscape filled with towering saguaros, this is the place. The park has scenic drives, hiking trails, and beautiful desert sunsets, with separate districts on either side of Tucson.
Saguaro National Park (Tucson, AZ)