Our Travel Guide to Phoenix, Arizona

The desert is one of our favorite places to visit for many reasons; the beautiful landscape, unique and impressive architecture and design, relaxing atmosphere, and the sunshine, of course. When we had the chance to visit Phoenix, Arizona last fall we discovered all of that, and much much more. The city is swimming with awesome hotels & resorts, incredible restaurants, activities, art, and nature! If you haven’t been, we highly recommend taking a road trip or quick flight over to PHX and spending a bit of time in the great city and its surrounding areas. We’ll tell you where to stay, where to eat, and what do do right here in our travel guide to Phoenix, Arizona…

Where to Stay

Mountain Shadows Resort: If you’re looking to escape, lay by a chic pool, and take in the mountain views, Mountain Shadows is for you. The new property boasts modern design that will fill your ‘gram with wanderlust worthy content at every corner. Spend time wandering the grounds, playing a game of golf, enjoying a cabana at the pool and dining at Hearth ’61 (yum!). When you book, be sure to request a room with a bathtub, where you can look out over your patio at the stunning desert scene!

Mountain Shadows Resort

Hotel Valley Ho: Hotel Valley Ho is a popular place to stay and for good reason; the fun property is walkable to downtown Scottsdale restaurants, bars, and shops, there is live music in the lobby/cocktail bar in the evenings, and the design is hip, colorful, and a bit retro. We loved the fun atmosphere, spacious rooms, and awesome location!

Hotel Valley Ho

Where to Eat

The Henry

The Henry: No visit to Phoenix is complete without brunch at this cute joint, where they have their own coffee bar and Bloody Mary cart. Enough said. Order one of their delicious scrambles, the bruléed pink grapefruit, and don’t forget to make a reservation!

The Henry

Farm Kitchen at The Farm

The Farm at South Mountain: You can spend a whole morning, afternoon, or evening on The Farm thanks to its beautiful property and three restaurants. It features an incredible garden and impressive grounds that serve as not only a wedding venue, but also a space for events, cooking classes, family activities and weekend fun. Plus, the farm fresh (straight from the garden) meals at Morning Glory Café, Farm Kitchen, and Quiessence are divine.

The Farm

Tipsy Tea Party at The Camby: If you’re looking to escape the afternoon heat for a bit, or find yourself ready for a cocktail, head to The Camby for their afternoon Tipsy Tea Party! It’s exactly what it sounds like – a tea party with cocktails inspired by favorite teas complete with an upscale take on tea party foods such as sweets and sandwiches.

Tipsy Tea Party at The Camby

Crujiente Tacos: Head here for happy hour to enjoy great deals on the delicious street-style tacos and small plates. You can’t go wrong with the tacos, a margarita, and queso! They will keep you coming back for more! We loved the modern design as much as the food!

Crujiente Tacos

What to Do

Besides eating your way through the city and spending time at the pool, there are plenty of ways to spend your time in Phoenix…

Desert Botanical Gardens: The botanical gardens in Phoenix may be the most extensive we have ever visited! The beautiful gardens are full of desert plant life, art installations, educational information and a butterfly sanctuary! Spend a short time here or all day wandering through the many exhibits.

Hike: Another great way to see the natural beauty in Phoenix is on one of the many hiking trails. Hike along Camelback Mountain or the popular Tom’s Thumb Trail in Scottsdale for an adventure.

Topgolf: For us SoCal residents, Topgolf was a must visit! The modern multi-tier golfing range is a great nighttime activity for small groups or large. Rent a bay for a couple of hours and enjoy food and drinks while you play a few games. Even if you’ve never swung a golf club, we guarantee you will have a good time!

Museums: The art scene in Phoenix rivals any other. Take a stroll through Roosevelt Row Arts District and visit the galleries and wonderful works of public art. Or tour the Wrigley Mansion, former home of chewing gum magnate William Wrigley Jr.

Hot Air Balloon Ride: Why not finish off your trip with a bird’s eye view of Phoenix? A sunrise hot air balloon with Hot Air Expeditions is a must in our opinion! Spectacular views of the desert and landmarks plus a fun ride in the sky – what’s not to love?!

What are your favorite places to visit in Phoenix? Check out Visit Phoenix for more recommendations for your next trip!