Things To Do
Desert Botanical Garden
A beautiful outdoor garden showcasing Arizona’s desert plants, cacti, flowers, and scenic walking paths. It’s peaceful and easy to explore, with shaded areas, art installations, and great photo spots. Guests can wander at their own pace, grab a coffee, and enjoy the unique desert landscape. Sunrise and sunset are especially pretty here and the whole experience feels very “Arizona,” without being a long hike.
Tempe Town Lake
A relaxed waterfront area where guests can walk, rent bikes, or take paddle boats out on the lake. Right next to ASU and downtown Tempe, it has a fun college-town atmosphere with coffee shops, restaurants, and bars. It’s a good spot if guests want something low-key and outdoors without leaving the city.
Old Town Scottsdale
A lively, walkable area filled with boutique shops, art galleries, restaurants, and western-style charm. It’s perfect for grabbing lunch, wandering through local stores, and soaking up the sunny, resort-style vibe. At night, bars and lounges get busy, so guests who want a night out will love it. It’s also very tourist-friendly and easy to navigate.
Papago Park / Hole-in-the-Rock
A short, easy walk that leads to a natural rock formation with views over the city and the desert. It’s great for families, groups, or anyone who wants to get a taste of desert hiking without a big time commitment. People often go at sunset when the light turns the red rocks golden, and it makes for great photos.
South Mountain Park and Preserve
South Mountain Park in Phoenix is one of the largest city parks in the country and offers more than 50 miles of hiking trails. It has options for every level, from short, easy walks to more challenging climbs with panoramic views. Popular routes include the Hidden Valley Loop, which features unique rock formations and a natural tunnel, and Pima Canyon, which is great for a relaxed desert hike. Trails are marked, parking is available at multiple trailheads, and sunrise or late afternoon is the best time to go for cooler weather and beautiful light. This is a great spot for guests who want a true Arizona desert hiking experience without leaving the city.
McDowell Sonoran Preserve
A huge trail system with options for casual walks or longer hikes. The scenery is classic Sonoran desert: saguaro cacti, mountain views, and quiet open space. It’s perfect for guests who want fresh air, exercise, and beautiful landscapes. Going early morning is best before it gets warm, and trails are clearly marked so it’s easy even for beginners.
OdySea Aquarium
A great option for families or anyone who loves sea life. It has sharks, otters, sea turtles, and rotating exhibits, plus a big central “theater aquarium” that feels like you’re underwater. It’s indoors, air-conditioned, and located near restaurants, so it works well for a half-day activity.
Sedona
If guests have a full day free, Sedona is an incredible red-rock landscape about two hours north. The drives are scenic, the hikes are gorgeous, and even just walking through the town is fun. There are viewpoints everywhere, crystal shops, cafes, and relaxing resort vibes. It feels completely different from Phoenix and is a great “wow” experience for visitors.