Top 10 Places to Visit While You’re On a Trip to Phoenix

As the capital of Arizona, there’s no question that Phoenix has something for everyone, no matter their interests. Not sure what to do in Phoenix? No worries. We’ve put together a list of the top 10 places to go in and around the city.

1. CityScape

1 E. Washington St. Ste. 300 Phoenix, AZ

Combining entertainment, shopping, and cuisine, CityScape is a fantastic location for family and friends of all ages to spend some time together. This destination covers just two city blocks but has everything you could want to do in a day in downtown Phoenix.

2. Papago Park

625 N Galvin Pkwy, Phoenix, AZ

Covering 1,496 acres between Phoenix and Tempe, Papago Park is a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts that are looking to participate in fun outdoor activities, such as mountain biking and scenic hiking. It includes Hunt’s Tomb, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. You’re guaranteed a great Instagram picture in Papago Park.

3. Civic Space Park

424 N Central Ave, Phoenix, AZ

This sustainable park opened in 2009 and offers an outdoor space within the urban landscape. It is a great place to have a seat and enjoy the outdoors on a sunny day. Check out the landmark sculpture by Janet Echelman while you’re there; you literally can’t miss it.

 4. Changing Hands Bookstore

300 W Camelback Rd, Phoenix, AZ

Looking for somewhere to go with the book lover in your life? Look no further than Changing Hands Bookstore. This bookstore is the oldest and largest independent bookstores in Phoenix. They’ve also got a bar attached that hosts a book club!

5. FilmBar

815 N. 2nd St. Phoenix, AZ

What better way to spend an evening than catching a film at a bar in Phoenix while having a cocktail or two? This award-winning spot has everything you need for a night out; atmosphere, alcohol, and movies. Showing films from various genres, this is the perfect date night spot.

6. Desert Botanical Garden

1201 N. Galvin Pkwy, Phoenix, AZ

Who said the desert can’t have lush greenery? You’ll be pleasantly surprised to see that the desert isn’t just tumbleweeds and rattlesnakes. Take a trip to the Desert Botanical Garden and see for yourself the blooming cacti and horticulture that the Sonoran Desert has to offer.

7. South Mountain Park and Preserve

10409 S Central Ave, Phoenix, AZ

Encompassing over 16,000 acres of land within its borders, South Mountain Park and Preserve is one of the most visited outdoor areas in Phoenix. Feel free to hike, bike, run or walk the 51 miles of trails throughout the area and enjoy the desert scenery and outdoor activities.

8. Phoenix Art Museum

1625 N Central Ave, Phoenix, AZ

With art spanning from the Renaissance period to present day, there is a collection for everyone at the Phoenix Art Museum. This museum is also the largest for visual art in the Southwest. Be sure to check out the Yayoi Kusama exhibit while it lasts!

9. Camelback Mountain

5700 N. Echo Canyon, Phoenix, AZ

If you want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city for a few hours without actually going too far, head over to Camelback Mountain for a hike. Located just 20 minutes outside of downtown Phoenix, the mountain provides plenty of outdoor activities while taking in the incredible scenery.

10. Heard Museum

2301 N. Central Ave, Phoenix, AZ

Founded in 1929, the Heard Museum’s internationally-acclaimed collections showcase Native American arts and cultures from the country’s past and present. The rich history provided in the museum will educate me on Phoenix’s landscape and those who have inhabited it for hundreds of years.