Best Things to Do in Phoenix

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If you’re planning a trip to Arizona, Phoenix is more than just a desert city—it’s a hub of outdoor adventure, cultural experiences, incredible food, and plenty of sunshine. Don’t get me wrong–it’s a great place to go and relax in the sunshine. But you’ll also find plenty of fun things to do in Phoenix if you’re looking to explore a bit.

I’m currently in the process of planning a long weekend in Phoenix. We’re heading out with a couple other families who are wanting to do a variety of things while there. One of the things we’re doing is attending a concert–which is so much fun to do in another city. It’s also a fun reason to plan a trip. I’m filling the rest of our time with a nice mix of exploring, eating and relaxing at one of the amazing family resorts there.

Whether you’re exploring solo, on a couples’ getaway, or bringing the whole family along, Phoenix has something for everyone. Here’s a guide to some of the best things to do in Phoenix, with a spotlight on family-friendly fun.

Explore the Great Outdoors

Phoenix’s desert setting makes it a dream for hikers and outdoor lovers.

• Camelback Mountain – One of the most iconic hikes in the city. It’s challenging, but the views from the top are worth it. If you’re looking for something a little less strenuous, Echo Canyon and Cholla Trail offer options for different skill levels.
• Papago Park – Home to the famous Hole-in-the-Rock formation, Papago is perfect for an easy hike or picnic. Plus, it’s right next to the Phoenix Zoo and Desert Botanical Garden.
• South Mountain Park and Preserve – With more than 50 miles of trails, this is one of the largest municipal parks in the country. You can hike, bike, or even drive to Dobbins Lookout for sweeping views of the city.

Dive Into Phoenix’s Culture

• Heard Museum – A must-visit for anyone interested in Native American art and history. The exhibits are beautifully curated and give a deeper understanding of the Southwest.
• Roosevelt Row – If you’re into street art, unique galleries, and a buzzing food scene, this arts district is the place to be. The First Friday art walk is especially lively.
• Musical Instrument Museum – This hidden gem showcases instruments from around the world, and you can even try your hand at playing some of them.

Treat Yourself to Phoenix’s Food Scene

Phoenix’s dining scene is booming with everything from upscale dining to incredible tacos. You can book a food tour or choose from an assortment of popular restaurants.

• Taco Guild – A 19th-century church turned taco restaurant—worth visiting for both the atmosphere and the food.
• Pizzeria Bianco – Famous for wood-fired pizzas and a must for foodies.
• Local Coffee Shops – Don’t miss Cartel Roasting Co or Lux Central for a caffeine fix.

Family-Friendly Things to Do in Phoenix

Traveling with kids? Phoenix makes it easy to keep them entertained.

• Phoenix Zoo – A classic family stop with over 3,000 animals, a splash pad, and fun kid-friendly exhibits.
• Children’s Museum of Phoenix – Packed with interactive exhibits and play spaces that are both fun and educational.
• Arizona Science Center – Perfect for curious minds, with hands-on exhibits, a planetarium, and an IMAX theater.
• Butterfly Wonderland – Located in nearby Scottsdale, this indoor rainforest is home to thousands of butterflies and is always a hit with kids.
• Top Golf – Technically located in Scottsdale or Glendale, but Top Golf is a fun family outing for golf or competition enthusiasts.

Relax and Recharge

After a busy day of exploring, unwind the Phoenix way.

• Resort Pools & Spas – Many of the area’s resorts have world-class pools (with lazy rivers and cabanas) and spas perfect for some desert relaxation. Even if you’re not staying in one of the amazing family resorts in Phoenix, you can still get a resort pass to use the facilities. See below for my favorite family hotels.
• Desert Botanical Garden – Stroll through trails filled with desert plants, cacti, and seasonal displays, like the magical Las Noches de las Luminarias in the winter.

Where to Stay in Phoenix — Best Hotels & Resorts

Phoenix offers a wide variety of lodging options, from sprawling spa resorts to boutique hotels tucked into desert landscapes. Below are some of the standouts in different categories.

Top Luxury & Boutique Hotels

These are great if you want to splurge a little or appreciate architecture, service, and amenities:

• Arizona Biltmore, LXR Hotels & Resorts
  A desert icon, partly designed under the influence of Frank Lloyd Wright style. Multiple pools, golf courses, a full-service spa, beautiful architecture, lush grounds. A stylish escape with elegance.
• The Global Ambassador
  For a more modern, boutique-luxury vibe. It’s located where Camelback Mountain, Scottsdale, and Paradise Valley converge. Clean design, several restaurant options, artistic and cosmopolitan feel.
• Royal Palms Resort & Spa
  Vintage Spanish Colonial charm, beautifully landscaped grounds, romantic palms, fountains. If you want something with character and a relaxing resort feel, this is a strong choice.
• Westin Kierland Resort & Spa
  Upscale, with a large resort footprint. Golf, lovely pool areas, spa, pretty surroundings. It works well if you want resort amenities + proximity to things to do.

Family-Friendly Resorts & Hotels

For families especially, these hotels make the stay easier and more fun for everyone—from kids to parents:

• Arizona Grand Resort & Spa
  Probably one of the best picks for families. It has a large water park, slides, a lazy river, young-kid-friendly water features, and suite-style rooms or rooms with extra space.
• Hilton Phoenix Tapatio Cliffs Resort
  A resort with 7 outdoor pools, water-park access, good for families who want plenty of swimming and outdoor relaxing.
• Hilton Phoenix Resort at the Peak
  This one offers a water park, lazy river, multiple pools, spacious rooms (many suites), good food, and activities. Nice balance between kid-friendly fun and comfortable accommodations for adults.
• The Wigwam Resort
  Historic, large property, with multiple pools, slides, spacious grounds. Good if you want a resort atmosphere where kids can run around, and also some calm space for adults.

And for even more ideas, check out my other popular post where I discuss the best family-friendly resorts in Phoenix.

Downtown & Convenient Location Choices

If you’re more interested in staying close to museums, restaurants, nightlife, or business/airport access, these are good bets:

• Sheraton Phoenix Downtown
  Big, convention-style hotel. Very central to Phoenix’s downtown area, which makes getting to cultural spots and dining easy.
• Cambria Hotel Downtown Phoenix Convention Center
  A more boutique/modern choice in downtown setting. Good if you want to be in the thick of it.

Tips for Picking a Hotel

Here are a few things to think about when you choose:

• Pool / Water-Amenities: In Phoenix heat, a good pool (or multiple pools) or water park access is often a game changer.
• Room Size & Suit-Style Rooms: If traveling with kids or more than 2, suite-style or multiple rooms help.
• Location vs Car Rental: Some of the resort-style hotels are a bit outside of downtown proper. If you don’t want to drive much, prioritize being closer to things you want to see.
• Kid Services & Extras: Kids’ clubs, early check-in, kid-friendly dining options, etc., make a big difference.
• Vacation Timing: In summer, rates can fluctuate a lot; resorts may have seasonal deals. Fall through spring tends to be more pleasant weather-wise.

Final Thoughts

Phoenix is a city that blends outdoor adventure, cultural richness, and family fun in a way that few destinations can. Whether you’re hiking a desert trail, wandering through world-class museums, or enjoying a lazy day at the pool, you’ll find plenty of memorable things to do in Phoenix.

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