Welcome To Phoenix

Calling all nature lovers, art enthusiasts and pampered princesses and princes--Phoenix offers the perfect combination of outdoor and indoor attractions for your exciting, yet relaxing, Arizona vacation. There's no shortage of mountainous and desert terrain in Phoenix, and visitors with a taste for adventure will appreciate the trails and hikes of Camelback Mountain and Piestewa Peak. Phoenix (and its surrounding areas) is established as a city of great cultural significance, and boasts two major art museums, including the world-renowned Heard Museum, with its collection of Native American artwork. Accommodations in Phoenix range from very budget-friendly hotels to all-inclusive luxury resorts. The area houses numerous 5 Diamond, 4 Diamond and 3 Diamond resorts and spas to suit your vacation preferences. Don't forget, Phoenix is in close proximity to the Grand Canyon, which is about a four hour drive one-way. Come discover what makes Phoenix, a.k.a. the Valley of the Sun, such a hot spot.

Getting The Most Out Of Your Phoenix Vacation

Fall and winter are the prime seasons for vacationing in Phoenix, Arizona, and September through April usually sees the most pleasant weather and tourists. Ideal for golfers and outdoorsy types, the climate, with its average 70 degree temperature, is accommodating for anyone brave enough climb Camelback Mountain or explore the Sonora. Additionally, Phoenix hosts nearly a dozen annual festivals and celebrations during this time. From the FBR Open (formerly the Phoenix Open) in January to the Scottsdale Culinary Festival in April, there's always something going on to make your Phoenix vacation a memorable one. Other highlights include the Annual World Hoop Dance Championship at the Heard Museum in February, and the Chandler Ostrich Festival in March.

Planning Your Grand Canyon Trip

If you're staying any significant time in Phoenix, you simply can't pass up the opportunity to see a nearby World Wonder. The Grand Canyon is located near Flagstaff, Arizona and is situated approximately four hours away from Phoenix. If you're planning a "day trip" to the Grand Canyon, allow at least two full days (three is ideal) for the excursion. You don't want to rush through the site, or be worried about beating rush hour traffic, so consider planning your outing in the middle of the week, as opposed to the weekend, when everyone else has plans to explore the canyon too. No matter the time of year you visit, make sure to bring along plenty of water, sun screen and a comfortable pair of hiking shoes.

When To Book

A perfectly planned Phoenix vacation requires great timing. You won't have too much trouble scoring your preferred hotel during the hot summer months, and will even find great pricing on some of the more renowned establishments, but booking your first choice resort in the fall or winter requires reservations at least two months in advance. Make sure you are up-to-date with Phoenix's annual schedule, including monthly festivals and celebratory events, which can interfere with your accommodation plans.