Things To Do In Phoenix

Phoenix is the cultural and commercial center of the Southwest. It is also one of the fastest growing cities in the country. Because of this, there is an ever-growing list of exciting attractions for visitors to enjoy. But Phoenix is also home to classic institutions and attractions that have been drawing tourists for decades. This modern and historic mix gives the city a unique atmosphere and makes it one of the most attractive big city destinations in the Western US. Here are the best things to do in Phoenix:

Spend time at the Arizona Science Center:The Science Center has more than its share of museum staples: an IMAX theater, a planetarium and plenty of interactive science-themed exhibit halls. When highly publicized traveling exhibits come to the Southwest, their first stop is almost always this museum. The well-known Race exhibit is currently housed in one of the Science Center’s galleries and the much-hyped Body Worlds and the Brain exhibit is slated to open soon.

Go to Fiesta Bowl events: In sports-happy Phoenix (see more below), the Fiesta Bowl is the year’s biggest event. Two major college football teams square off on New Years Day. Tickets to the game can be hard to come by, especially for people who have not planned ahead and have to purchase them on the secondary market. But there are parades, parties and special events in the days leading up to the game, so visitors can catch the bowl buzz even if they haven’t scored seats at the 50 yard line.

Participate in the Phoenix Art Walk: Phoenix has a world-class arts scene. It hosts the world’s largest “art-walk” on the first Friday of every month. There are even shuttle buses that carry art enthusiasts from the Phoenix Art Museum (free admission on “First Fridays”) to the different sites around the city that participate in the event. More than 70 galleries open their doors to the public in the evening, starting at 6 p.m.

Shop: Scottsdale’s Fashion Square Mall, on the Scottsdale riverfront, and Biltmore Fashion Park, located in the trendy Camelback district, are great places for retail enthusiasts and window shoppers alike. The Scottsdale location is a better bet for deal-seekers. Both areas have restaurants and entertainment venues that elevate them above mere shopping malls.

See what’s going on at the Mesa Arts Center: The Mesa Arts Center is a large set of performance spaces and galleries in the Phoenix suburb of Mesa. The high-brow menu ranges from concerts by world-famous jazz musicians to performances of Shakespeare plays and contemporary dramas. This is a notable attraction because there are always several different performances to choose from, no matter what time of year you visit.

Go hiking: Trekkers who venture into the beautiful natural areas in and around Phoenix have to keep the heat in mind during the summertime (daytime highs usually top 100 degrees in June and July). North Mountain and Piestawa Peak are two of the most challenging but most rewarding hiking areas in the city.

Visit the Desert Botanical Garden: The Desert Botanical Garden is truly a unique place. People expecting lush greenery and the pastel-colored flowers usually associated with the “botanical garden” label will be disappointed (or, hopefully, pleasantly surprised). The garden features plant life from the Sonaran Desert and also from arid regions around the world. Classes and special events are often held in the garden.

See Spring Training or other pro sports: The Cactus League takes place each March when major league baseball teams like the Chicago Cubs head to Arizona for spring training. This is a unique opportunity for baseball fans. They can attend exhibition games and practices and often have a chance to mingle with players and coaches and get snapshots and autographs. If you aren’t coming in March, you can still catch the Arizona Diamondbacks in Phoenix during the summer. The NBA’s Phoenix Suns and NFL’s Arizona Cardinals are also hot pro sports tickets during their respective seasons.

Phoenix is one of those rare destinations where it is not an overstatement to say “there is something for everyone.” This is especially true for people who can mark their calendars.