Things to Do
Museums (<10 min drive)
Heard Museum (2301 N Central Ave, Phoenix, AZ): A must-visit for Native American art and history. The museum features stunning exhibits and contemporary Indigenous art. Hours: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM (closed some holidays) Phoenix Art Museum (1625 N Central Ave, Phoenix, AZ): A mix of classic and contemporary art, including special exhibits and fashion collections. Hours: Wed-Sun: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM (closed Mon & Tue)
Outdoor adventures (15 min drive)
Desert Botanical Garden (1201 N Galvin Pkwy, Phoenix, AZ): Explore Arizona’s beautiful desert landscape w/ cacti, succulents, and seasonal butterfly exhibits. Perfect for a morning stroll! Hours: 7:00 AM – 8:00 PM (varies by season) Camelback Mountain (Address for Trailheads below): This moderate-to-difficult hike rewards you with panoramic views of the city. Bring PLENTY of water, start early, and be ready for a workout! Hours: Sunrise to Sunset (see trailheads below) Echo Canyon Trailhead: 4925 E McDonald Dr, Phoenix, AZ Cholla Trailhead: 6131 E Cholla Ln, Paradise Valley, AZ
Breakfast and coffee spots (5-10 min walk)
Matt's Big Breakfast (825 N 1st St, Phoenix, AZ): Delicious, casual breakfast + lunch nearby! Hours: 7 am - 2 pm Cactus Cloud Cafe (111 W Monroe St suite 121, Phoenix, AZ): Coffee, pastries, and light sandwiches. Hours: 6 am - 3 pm Press Coffee EVB (200 E Van Buren St, Phoenix, AZ): Locally roasted coffee with select pastries. Hours: 6:30 am - 4 pm
Lunch and Dinner spots
Centrico (202 N Central Ave, Phoenix, AZ): Great Mexican restaurant in walking distance! Tacos, enchiladas, margaritas, you name it! Hours: 11 am - 12 am for Fridays and Saturdays (9 pm close on Sunday) Tacos Huicho (1941 E Oak St, Phoenix, AZ): A Michael favorite! Authentic, no-frills spot with delicious tacos - you can't go wrong. Hours: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM Tacos Chiwas (1923 E McDowell Rd, Phoenix, AZ): Family-run spot serving Sonoran-style tacos and homemade tortillas. Hours: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Drinks and nightlife
Downtown PHX: Valley Bar: A Michael favorite! Cool underground cocktail bar that sometimes has concerts The Rose Garden: Vibey cocktails and small bites Old Town Scottsdale (25 min drive): A lively area with bars, restaurants, and nightclubs—great for an day of shopping or fun night out! Popular spots: Rusty Spur Saloon (classic country dive bar), Coach House (iconic local favorite), AZ88 (sleek cocktails & bites)
Day trip to Sedona (2-hr drive from Downtown Phoenix)
If you're staying for a few extra days, rent a car and take a trip to Sedona - it is absolutely well worth it! Known for its stunning red rock formations, hiking trails, and energy vortexes, Sedona is a perfect getaway. Pink Jeep Tours: Guided off-road adventure take you through the breathtaking scenery Hiking: Try Cathedral Rock or Devil’s Bridge for iconic views