If you’re planning on visiting Phoenix, Arizona, then you’ll be pleased to know that there’s a lot to do and see.
From natural places to hike and camp, to historic sights, to cool modern attractions—there’s no shortage of stuff to do in ‘the valley of the sun.’
So in this post, you’re going to learn about 6 of the best places to visit in Phoenix.
Obviously, these 6 items just barely scratch the surface. But if it’s an adventure you want—well, these places are definite ‘must see’ items for anyone getting ready for a trip to Arizona.
Let’s break it down and get into it.
1. Taliesin West
Taliesin West is basically the preserved desert laboratory of Frank Lloyd Wright.
It’s not only a UNESCO World Heritage Site, but also a National Historic Landmark.
It possesses a kind of ‘prehistoric grandeur’ that you really have to experience to understand.
You can buy tickets online, and visit for tours.
2. The Desert Botanical Garden
The Desert Botanical Garden in Phoenix, Arizona, is a beautiful and complicated blend of art and nature.
It’s basically a 140 acre complex that’s dotted with art installations, all centered around extensive trails that wind their way through a garden the likes of which you’ve likely never experienced before.
It’s pure desert beaty, to the highest degree!
Note: Interested in smoking some medical cannabis while hiking the trails? Consider checking out one of Arizona’s legal dispensary locations.
3. The Heard Museum
The Heard Museum is basically a museum devoted to preserving and displaying the art and culture of the Indian people of the Southwest. They have vast displays of things like pottery, textiles, basketwork, jewelry, kachina dolls, etc.
It’s a cultural center for important Native American art, as well as a great place for families to not only enjoy this art—but to also learn about and appreciate Native American history.
It’s certainly worth a visit if you’re going to be in Phoenix!
4. The Desert Hiking Trails
There are all kinds of hiking trails to visit in and around Phoenix—and all of them can open you up to desert wonders the likes of which you’ll never forget.
Arizona is one of the most unique and beautiful states in the lower 48—so hiking around and checking out at least a bit of this local scenery on foot is most definitely recommended.
Need some ideas to help you decide which trails would be best to visit? Check out this list to plan your hiking itinerary.
5. Old Town Scottsdale
So, Old Town Scottsdale is actually about 19 miles outside of Phoenix.
But don’t let this short drive deter you from visiting one of the most interesting places that Arizona has to offer.
Old Town Scottsdale is basically exactly what it sounds like—an old fashioned, traditionally-styled historic town that boasts a bunch of shops, galleries, restaurants, bars, and more.
This is the perfect place to just park your car and walk around, enjoying the sights and sounds of a truly historic Arizona landmark location.
Interested in staying? There are also a range of hotels to choose from—and you can even make a weekend out of it.
There’s definitely plenty to do—and you certainly won’t get bored.
6. Phoenix Art Museum
If you’re looking to experience a truly eclectic, yet classical collection of world renown artwork during your stay in Phoenix, then you really can’t skip out on the Phoenix Art Museum.
It features a permanent collection of art that ranges from European Renaissance pieces, to pieces from the Baroque period, to pieces depicting the Far East—and even a collection based on the American West.
It was founded in 1959, and is now one of the leading art museums in the American Southwest. It’s truly an experience to behold if you enjoy art and are looking for amazing things to see and experience while visiting Phoenix.
Conclusion
Hopefully, this list has inspired you to get out and see some of the sights in Phoenix, Arizona.
There’s certainly a lot to see.
Phoenix is one of America’s more interesting cities—not just because the city itself has a lot to offer, but because the state (Arizona) is probably the best known example of that Southwestern countryside and the unique flora, fauna, and landscapes that exist there.
If you’ve never visited before, you’ll be hard-pressed not to be immediately impressed.