Phoenix, Arizona
Phoenix figured into our November 2022 travels as an Arizona hub — a connection point during a trip that also took us to Colorado.
Our experience
The sprawling capital of Arizona is the heart of the Valley of the Sun, a desert metropolis ringed by rugged mountains and famous for its sunshine, resorts, and golf. Even passing through, it's clear how much the area offers: desert hiking right in the city, a growing arts and food scene downtown, and easy access to the wider Southwest.
As fellow desert dwellers from Palm Springs, we feel right at home in the dry heat and saguaro-dotted landscape of the Sonoran Desert.
Phoenix grew over an area shaped by ancient irrigation canals built by the Hohokam people centuries ago. Some of the modern valley's canal routes still follow portions of that much older water network.
Must-sees and must-dos
- Camelback Mountain — tackle one of Phoenix's most iconic desert hikes for sweeping views across the Valley. The main summit trails are strenuous, so start early and bring plenty of water.
- Desert Botanical Garden — explore thousands of desert plants and several themed trails devoted to Sonoran Desert landscapes and conservation.
- Old Town Scottsdale — wander galleries, restaurants, boutiques, and nightlife in neighboring Scottsdale.
- South Mountain Park & Preserve — explore more than 16,000 acres of Sonoran Desert with hiking, biking, and scenic viewpoints including Dobbins Lookout.
- Heard Museum — visit one of Phoenix's major cultural institutions, with extensive collections focused on American Indian art and cultures of the Southwest.
- Sonoran Desert scenery — make time for saguaros, desert preserves, and the rugged mountain landscapes surrounding the city.
Our pro tip
As desert folks, our advice is simple: respect the heat. Phoenix is especially comfortable during the cooler months, while summer temperatures can make daytime hiking dangerous. If you're visiting in hot weather, start outdoor activities very early and carry more water than you think you'll need.
The metro is spread out, so a car makes exploring Phoenix, Scottsdale, and the surrounding desert much easier.
For a guided desert experience, browse Phoenix tours and activities on Klook. If Scottsdale is part of your stay, browse Scottsdale experiences on Klook.
For a wider Arizona road trip, browse Grand Canyon experiences on Klook.