Desert Botanical Garden’s 140-acre Sonoran Desert sanctuary housing 50,000+ plants across 4,000 taxa—79 rare/endangered species creating five thematic trails through towering saguaro cacti, brilliant wildflowers (February-June peak blooming), and desert adaptations unique to this ecosystem. Camelback Mountain’s iconic “kneeling camel” silhouette challenging hikers via Echo Canyon’s steep 2.5-mile trail gaining 1,200 feet elevation to 2,700-foot summit panoramas over Phoenix Mountains Preserve and valley sprawl. Heard Museum preserving 22 regional American Indian tribes’ traditions through immersive exhibits, authentic art collections, World Championship Hoop Dance Contest, and powerful boarding school histories showcasing Southwest indigenous peoples’ stories from early history to contemporary culture. Year-round sunshine enabling outdoor adventures across Papago Park’s red sandstone buttes, while vibrant nightlife and cultural offerings blend desert recreation with urban sophistication. Sonoran Desert’s unique flora and fauna creating living laboratories where ancient Native American heritage meets contemporary desert city innovation beneath Arizona’s legendary endless blue skies and dramatic mountain backdrops.
The destination guide
Phoenix
City in United States, North AmericaUpdated
- Overall7/10
- Best forFamilies, Adventure seekers
- PeakJan–Apr
- CurrencyUSD
Camelback’s 1,200-foot climb earns you the valley. But the Heard Museum might be Phoenix’s most underrated half-day.
Travel guides for Phoenix
Itineraries & day trips (1)
Things to do (2)
Where to stay (1)
Destination stories (1)
More guides featuring Phoenix (29)
At a glance
Currency$ USDCode: USD
Time zoneMountain Standard Time
Languages
- English
Setting
- Sonoran Desert city
- Mountain parks
- Saguaro cacti
- Canal waterways
Known for
- Desert Landscapes
- Outdoor Adventure
- Luxury Resorts
- Golf.
Population1.7M1,680,992 residents
VisaDocuments: For domestic U.S. air travel, travelers age 18 and older must present a REAL ID-compliant driver's license or another TSA-accepted ID such as a valid passport
How Phoenix scores
7/10OverallGood
Weather9/10
Value for money7/10
Food & cuisine7/10
Culture & arts8/10
Cultural experience6/10
Nature & outdoors8/10
Adventure7/10
Nightlife6/10
Shopping7/10
Family friendly7/10
Romance6/10
Editorial scores on a 10-point scale, weighed against destinations of the same kind.
Travel safety snapshot
Overall68/100Moderate rating
Women travellers70/100
LGBTQ+ travellers75/100
Theft65/100
Medical care82/100
Physical harm70/100
Political freedom85/100
SafePlace indicators use their source 100-point scale; higher is more favourable. Planning context, not a live travel advisory — check official government guidance before you go.
When to go
Best months to visit: January, February, March, April, May, October, November and December.
- January: 7.8 to 18.9 degrees Celsius, 7 millimetres of rain, best-time score 5 out of 5.
- February: 9.2 to 20.7 degrees Celsius, 5.2 millimetres of rain, best-time score 5 out of 5.
- March: 12.1 to 25.1 degrees Celsius, 6 millimetres of rain, best-time score 5 out of 5.
- April: 14.6 to 27.4 degrees Celsius, best-time score 5 out of 5.
- May: 21.5 to 33.4 degrees Celsius, 1.4 millimetres of rain, best-time score 4 out of 5.
- June: 25.4 to 38.9 degrees Celsius, best-time score 2 out of 5.
- July: 30 to 39.9 degrees Celsius, 1.9 millimetres of rain, best-time score 2 out of 5.
- August: 29.4 to 39.4 degrees Celsius, 1.1 millimetres of rain, best-time score 2 out of 5.
- September: 25.4 to 36.6 degrees Celsius, 4 millimetres of rain, best-time score 3 out of 5.
- October: 19.4 to 32.4 degrees Celsius, 6 millimetres of rain, best-time score 4 out of 5.
- November: 12.3 to 24.1 degrees Celsius, 1.7 millimetres of rain, best-time score 5 out of 5.
- December: 6.9 to 17.2 degrees Celsius, 7.8 millimetres of rain, best-time score 5 out of 5.
Month-by-month conditions and packing advice
- January
- Cool weather, mostly dry January in Phoenix: desert hikes, patios, resorts, golf, museums, gardens, and day trips are most comfortable in cooler months. Crowds: January represents one of Phoenix’s most favorable travel windows, attracting visitors escaping colder northern winters. The mild daytime temperatures and almost rain-free conditions create an ideal backdrop for hiking, golf, and exploring Native American cultural sites. With tourism demand high during this comfortable season, hotels and resorts may price at a premium, particularly around popular events such as the Barrett-Jackson Auto Auction. Crowds are moderate to heavy, especially at iconic outdoor destinations and cultural festivals. Travelers benefit from booking accommodations and tickets in advance to secure good value. Cooler evenings mean some nightlife and open-air events shift indoors or rely on outdoor heaters, but overall activity options remain abundant. For those seeking active adventures or cultural immersion without summer’s oppressive heat, January offers the clearest skies and most enjoyable balance of comfort and activity. Pack: Light jacket or fleece for cool mornings and evenings; Comfortable hiking shoes for desert trails; Sunglasses with UV protection for strong winter sun; Reusable water bottle to stay hydrated in dry air; Casual layers like long-sleeve shirts and jeans; Moisturizer and lip balm for desert dryness
- February
- Warm and pleasant, mostly dry February in Phoenix: desert hikes, patios, resorts, golf, museums, gardens, and day trips are most comfortable in cooler months. Crowds: February is one of Phoenix’s most appealing months for travel thanks to its mild temperatures and low rainfall. This is prime season for outdoor activities such as desert hiking, golfing, and exploring cultural districts. Because conditions are so favorable, it’s also a peak tourism period, particularly with visitors escaping colder northern climates. Expect higher hotel rates and busier attractions, especially on weekends. Event calendars are active during this period, with art festivals and spring training baseball just around the corner. Travelers should plan ahead for accommodation bookings and secure reservations early, as availability narrows quickly during this high-demand season. Pack: Lightweight layers for daytime and cooler nights; Comfortable hiking shoes for desert trails; Wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses for sun protection; Reusable water bottle to stay hydrated in dry air; Light jacket or fleece for evenings; Moisturizer and lip balm for desert dryness
- March
- Warm and pleasant, mostly dry March in Phoenix: desert hikes, patios, resorts, golf, museums, gardens, and day trips are most comfortable in cooler months. Crowds: March is a peak month for tourism in Phoenix thanks to ideal weather conditions and major seasonal events. Visitors can comfortably explore outdoor attractions such as Camelback Mountain, Papago Park, and the Desert Botanical Garden without the oppressive heat that arrives later in the year. Baseball spring training draws significant crowds, so expect higher hotel prices and busy restaurants during game weeks. Early mornings are excellent for hiking and photography, while afternoons invite patio dining and city walking tours. With virtually no rain to disrupt plans, March is one of the most reliable times for outdoor-focused travel. Travelers seeking quieter conditions should book accommodations well in advance or stay slightly outside the city center, as demand is consistently strong during this period. Pack: Breathable shirts and lightweight layers for daytime warmth; A light jacket or sweater for cool desert evenings; Comfortable hiking shoes for trails and preserves; Wide-brimmed hat and SPF 50+ sunscreen for sun protection; Reusable water bottle to stay hydrated in dry air; Casual attire suitable for dining and cultural events
- April
- Warm and pleasant, mostly dry April in Phoenix: desert hikes, patios, resorts, golf, museums, gardens, and day trips are most comfortable in cooler months. Crowds: April represents one of Phoenix’s peak visitation windows, with weather that attracts both domestic and international travelers. Conditions are ideal for hiking Camelback Mountain, exploring the Desert Botanical Garden, or enjoying outdoor festivals before the intense summer heat arrives. Accommodation rates and crowd levels are moderately high, as demand increases with spring break visitors and seasonal events. Outdoor dining, walking tours, and golf courses thrive under these warm yet manageable conditions. However, travelers should plan activities earlier in the day to avoid midday sun intensity. Booking lodging and tickets in advance is recommended, as this is among the busiest times before the summer off-season. Pack: Light layers for warm days and cooler mornings; Breathable cotton or linen clothing for desert heat; Wide-brimmed hat and polarized sunglasses; High-SPF sunscreen and lip balm; Refillable water bottle for hydration in dry air; Comfortable hiking shoes for desert trails
- May
- Hot and sunny, mostly dry May in Phoenix: season-edge timing can still work with early starts and heat planning. Crowds: Travelers visiting Phoenix in May will encounter the transitional shoulder season between spring’s mildness and summer’s furnace-like conditions. While daytime heat is strong, this is still a favorable period for exploring outdoor attractions before June’s extreme highs arrive. Expect smaller crowds than winter’s peak tourist season, with hotel prices beginning to dip. Mornings are excellent for hiking Camelback Mountain or strolling through the Desert Botanical Garden, but afternoons are best reserved for shaded museums or cooling hotel pools. Outdoor dining remains enjoyable after sunset, when desert breezes bring relief. Visitors should plan activities strategically, booking early-morning tours and hydrating constantly. Those sensitive to heat may find midday excursions uncomfortable, but the manageable crowds and slightly better rates make May a compelling, if weather-dependent, time to explore. Pack: Wide-brimmed hat and polarized sunglasses for sun protection; High-SPF sunscreen and lip balm for arid conditions; Light, breathable clothing in cotton or technical fabrics; Reusable water bottle or hydration pack for desert hikes; Comfortable sandals and sturdy walking shoes; Light jacket for cooler desert evenings
- June
- Hot and sunny, mostly dry June in Phoenix: extreme summer heat makes outdoor sightseeing impractical. Crowds: Traveling to Phoenix in June requires adjusting to extreme desert heat. This period is part of the low tourist season, as many visitors avoid the scorching conditions. As a result, hotel rates and flight prices are generally more affordable, and attractions are far less crowded. Outdoor activities such as hiking or desert exploration are best attempted at sunrise, while afternoons should be spent indoors—museums, galleries, and culinary experiences thrive in air-conditioned comfort. Golfing, a year-round activity in Phoenix, is still possible with early tee times. While waterparks and resort pools are popular, extreme UV levels demand constant sun protection. Visitors seeking budget-friendly stays will find June advantageous, but only if they plan carefully around the heat. Advance bookings are less critical this month due to reduced demand. Pack: Wide-brimmed hat and SPF 50+ sunscreen; Lightweight, breathable clothing in light colors; Reusable water bottle with strong insulation; Sunglasses with UV protection; Sandals or breathable walking shoes; Swimwear for resort pools and waterparks
- July
- Hot and sunny, mostly dry July in Phoenix: extreme summer heat makes outdoor sightseeing impractical. Crowds: July represents Phoenix’s low tourist season due to extreme heat, which drives most activities indoors. Outdoor exploration during midday hours can be dangerous without preparation, making early mornings and evenings the best times for hiking, photography, or visiting desert landscapes. The intense temperatures keep many visitors away, so hotels and resorts often reduce prices, offering excellent value for those who can handle the climate. Attractions like the Desert Botanical Garden, Heard Museum, and Old Town Scottsdale remain open, with air conditioning providing relief. Pools, spas, and shaded courtyards become the city’s most popular refuges. Travelers should plan flexible itineraries, staying indoors during the peak heat while enjoying Phoenix’s rich arts, dining, and cultural offerings. Advance booking is not as critical as in winter months, but hydration and sun safety are essential considerations. Pack: Breathable, moisture-wicking clothing for extreme heat; Wide-brimmed hat and high-SPF sunscreen; Refillable insulated water bottle for hydration; UV-protective sunglasses with polarized lenses; Lightweight long-sleeve shirt for sun coverage; Sturdy sandals or breathable walking shoes
- August
- Hot and sunny, mostly dry August in Phoenix: extreme summer heat makes outdoor sightseeing impractical. Crowds: August is one of the most challenging months for travelers in Phoenix, as extreme heat limits comfortable exploration. Outdoor activities are best confined to dawn and dusk, when temperatures are marginally cooler and landscapes glow with desert light. Midday sightseeing can be dangerous due to the risk of heat exhaustion, so visitors should plan for shaded museums, galleries, and air-conditioned attractions. This is the city’s off-season, which means reduced hotel rates and thinner crowds compared to the winter peak, offering a budget-friendly window for those who can adapt to the climate. While hiking is risky under such intense heat, night tours, cultural events, and culinary experiences flourish in cooler indoor settings. Advance booking is less urgent, but safety planning is critical. Travelers should factor in hydration, rest breaks, and flexible itineraries that respect the harsh desert environment. Pack: Light, breathable clothing in moisture-wicking fabrics; High-SPF sunscreen and UV-protective sunglasses; Wide-brimmed desert hat for sun protection; Electrolyte packets or hydration tablets; Lightweight long-sleeve shirt for sun coverage; Sturdy sandals or breathable walking shoes
- September
- Hot and sunny, mostly dry September in Phoenix: heat remains a major factor for outdoor plans. Crowds: September is a transitional travel period for Phoenix—summer heat lingers, but crowds remain light compared to peak winter months. The high temperatures can make midday exploration uncomfortable, so this is not yet prime season for city walking tours or golf outings, though early mornings are excellent for hiking in Camelback Mountain or Papago Park. Hotel prices are still relatively affordable, as the main influx of visitors doesn’t arrive until cooler weather in late October and November. Travelers can enjoy quieter cultural attractions like the Heard Museum or Desert Botanical Garden without heavy tourist traffic. Outdoor dining opens gradually as evenings become more pleasant, and this shoulder season is ideal for those who want Phoenix experiences at lower cost while accepting the challenge of desert heat. Pack: Lightweight, breathable clothing for desert heat; High-SPF sunscreen and lip balm; Wide-brimmed hat or cap for sun protection; Reusable water bottle with good insulation; Comfortable walking sandals or breathable shoes; Light jacket for cooler evenings or indoor AC
- October
- Hot and sunny, mostly dry October in Phoenix: season-edge timing can still work with early starts and heat planning. Crowds: October is one of the best months to visit Phoenix, striking a balance between warm daytime weather and pleasant evenings. With average highs hovering just above 30°C (86–90°F), outdoor activities such as hiking, golfing, and cultural events become far more enjoyable compared to summer’s extreme heat. Crowds begin to increase as this marks the start of the high season, but it is still less congested than peak winter months. Hotel rates typically rise compared to the summer off-season but remain lower than in December through March. This is also festival season, with art fairs and food events benefiting from the cooler evenings. Travelers should plan outdoor adventures early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the strongest midday sun and book accommodations in advance as availability begins to tighten. Pack: Light, breathable clothing for hot daytime hours; Wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses for desert sun; Reusable water bottle for hydration on hikes; Comfortable walking shoes with good grip for trails; Light jacket or wrap for cooler evenings; High SPF sunscreen and lip balm for dry climate
- November
- Warm and pleasant, mostly dry November in Phoenix: desert hikes, patios, resorts, golf, museums, gardens, and day trips are most comfortable in cooler months. Crowds: November marks one of the best months to visit Phoenix, as temperatures are perfect for exploring both urban attractions and desert landscapes. This is shoulder-to-peak season: hotels and tours see rising demand, but crowds remain more manageable than the winter high season. Comfortable weather allows for extended hiking in the Sonoran preserves, golfing, and strolling through cultural districts without heat limitations. Outdoor events and seasonal markets begin to pick up, adding to the city’s cultural appeal. Pricing trends are on the upswing but generally lower than December through February, making November a sweet spot for value. Travelers should book accommodations a few weeks in advance to secure the best rates, particularly for popular resorts and guided excursions. Pack: Breathable layers for shifting desert temperatures; Comfortable hiking shoes for trail exploration; Wide-brimmed hat and polarized sunglasses; Light jacket for cool mornings and evenings; Reusable water bottle for hydration in dry air; Smart casual attire for dining and cultural outings
- December
- Cool weather, mostly dry December in Phoenix: desert hikes, patios, resorts, golf, museums, gardens, and day trips are most comfortable in cooler months. Crowds: December represents Phoenix’s high season for visitors escaping colder northern climates. The cool, dry weather is perfect for outdoor activities like desert hiking, golf, and open-air cultural events. Hotels and resorts often operate at higher occupancy, and pricing trends upward during the holiday period. Attractions like the Desert Botanical Garden and outdoor light festivals benefit from the mild climate, while evening temperatures encourage cozy dining experiences on heated patios. Crowds are more pronounced in tourist-favorite areas, particularly around Christmas and New Year’s. For travelers, booking accommodations and activities early is recommended to secure availability and avoid premium rates. Despite the busier season, the weather balance makes December one of the most favorable months to visit Phoenix. Pack: Light jacket or fleece for cool evenings; Comfortable hiking shoes for desert trails; Breathable daytime layers for mild afternoons; Reusable water bottle for outdoor activities; Wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses for sun protection; Smart-casual attire for dining and cultural events
Peak season
- March
- February
- January
- April
Off-peak
- September
- August
- July
- June
Know before you go
Best time to visit
October to May
Season by season
Winter and Spring (Nov-April) offer perfect mild weather for outdoor activities; Summer (June-Sept) is dangerously hot, though hotel rates are deeply discounted; Fall is a pleasant transition.
Crowds
Moderate (High in winter/spring)
Getting there and around
Getting there
Fly to PHX Airport. Rental car recommended.
Top experiences in Phoenix
Desert Botanical Garden
Nature
Camelback Mountain
Hiking
Phoenix Art Museum
Museum
Papago Park
Park
Taliesin West
Architecture
Editor-curated picks carried over from our original guide. Where a full place guide exists, the card links to it.
Worth booking ahead in Phoenix
Hand-picked from the operators our guides already send readers to. Prices and availability are live on the partner site.
BrowseViator
Tours and tickets in Phoenix on Viator (opens Viator in a new tab)
Viator's full list of bookable tours and tickets in Phoenix.
BrowseGetYourGuide
Experiences in Phoenix on GetYourGuide (opens GetYourGuide in a new tab)
Everything GetYourGuide sells in Phoenix, with the cancellation terms on each listing.
Where to stayBooking.com
Stays in Phoenix (opens Booking.com in a new tab)
Live rates and availability for Phoenix on Booking.com; filter by neighbourhood once you know where your days start.
We earn a commission if you book through these links, at no extra cost to you. It is how we keep the guides free and independent.
Where to stay
The Global Ambassador
2401 E Camelback Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85016
Resort – Luxury
Hotel Valley Ho
5700 E McDonald Dr, Scottsdale, AZ 85253
Resort – Luxury
Arizona Biltmore
6000 E Camelback Rd, Scottsdale, AZ 85251
Hotel – Mid-Range
Editor-curated stays carried over from our original guide. Where we have reviewed the hotel, the card links to the review.
Tips from the field
Highlights
- The awe-inspiring Saguaro cacti dotting the landscape and the challenging but rewarding climb up Camelback Mountain.
Best activities
- Hiking Camelback Mountain at sunrise, exploring the Desert Botanical Garden, and relaxing at a luxury desert resort spa.
Local experiences
- Catch a vibrant desert sunset from the top of South Mountain or attend a spring-training baseball game.
Practical tips
- Renting a car is essential, and always carry more water than you think you'll need when hiking, even in cooler months.
Photography tips
- The desert light is harsh during the day
- photograph early in the morning or during the golden hour for the best colors on the red rocks and cacti.
Timing
- 3-5 days is a good amount of time to explore the city, hike, and relax at a resort.
Keeping it authentic
- Phoenix seamlessly blends rugged Sonoran Desert beauty with upscale resorts and a burgeoning culinary and arts scene.
Culture, customs and safety
Cultural heritage
Phoenix rises from Sonoran Desert preserving Hohokam canal systems, Spanish colonial missions, and Native American heritage within modern sprawl. Pueblo Grande Museum interprets sophisticated pre-Columbian irrigation civilization. Heard Museum showcases premier Native American art collections emphasizing Southwest tribes. Spanish colonial influence appears in Mission Revival architecture. Mid-century modern neighborhoods preserve post-war optimism. Contemporary culture embraces Mexican influences, desert lifestyle, and sustainable development. The city balances rapid growth with cultural preservation through museums, historic districts, and desert conservation.
Safety notes
Phoenix is generally safe, but extreme heat is the primary danger. Avoid hiking mid-day from May to October, and always carry abundant water. Property crime can be higher in certain urban areas.
Travel Style
Activities
