Phoenix Travel: 100 Questions Answered based on NeemTime research
General Planning & Logistics
Do I need a car in Phoenix?
Answer: Yes, absolutely. Public transportation is very limited, and the Phoenix metro area is enormous. Ubers and Waymo (self-driving taxis) are an option for shorter distances, but a car is essential for exploring beyond a small, concentrated area.
What’s the best area to stay for a visitor?
Answer: It depends on what you’re looking for.
Downtown/Roosevelt Row: Good for art, nightlife, and walkability to museums and venues.
Biltmore Area: Upscale, with good restaurants and shopping.
Scottsdale: Known for its nightlife, high-end shopping, and resort scene, especially Old Town Scottsdale.
Tempe: A younger, college-town vibe with a lively scene near Arizona State University and Tempe Town Lake.
How is public transportation in Phoenix?
Answer: It’s considered a “joke” by many locals due to the city’s vast size. The Light Rail is useful for a narrow corridor (e.g., Downtown, Tempe, and Mesa), but it won’t get you far across the city. The bus system is slow and not practical for most tourist travel.
How far is Phoenix from the Grand Canyon?
Answer: About a 3.5 to 4-hour drive. It’s a long day trip and many travelers suggest it’s better as an overnight trip to truly appreciate it.
What about a day trip to Sedona?
Answer: Sedona is a great day trip, only about a 2-hour drive. Be aware that traffic on I-17 can be heavy, especially on weekends and holidays.
What should I know about the heat?
Answer: It’s a dry heat, which feels different from humid climates, but it can be dangerous.
Drink way more water than you think you need.
Electrolytes are key, not just plain water.
Do outdoor activities in the early morning or after sunset.
The heat doesn’t always “turn off” at night due to the urban heat island effect, so it can be 100 degrees at midnight.
What’s the best time of year to visit?
Answer: Generally, October through April is considered “peak season” with ideal weather for hiking and outdoor activities. Summer (May-September) is brutally hot, but resorts offer cheaper rates.
What should I pack?
Answer: Layers are a good idea for the cooler months. In summer, pack light, breathable clothing, a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and plenty of sunscreen. A reusable water bottle is a must.
Are there any free things to do?
Answer: Yes.
Phoenix Public Library offers “Culture Passes” for free entry to many museums and gardens.
Hiking at various city parks like Papago Park and South Mountain.
Exploring art districts like Roosevelt Row on First Fridays.
Walks along the canal paths (e.g., Scottsdale Greenbelt).
Is Phoenix safe?
Answer: Like any large city, it has safe and less safe areas. Stick to the well-known tourist areas, and use common sense. Locals often mention that the city’s vastness means different areas can feel like entirely different places.
Hiking & Outdoors
Where can I go hiking?
Answer: The most popular hikes are Camelback Mountain (Echo Canyon and Cholla trails) and Piestewa Peak. For easier, scenic hikes, check out Papago Park.
Are there any less crowded hikes?
Answer: Yes. Locals recommend trails in the McDowell Sonoran Preserve (Tom’s Thumb is a popular but challenging one), South Mountain Park, or Usery Mountain Regional Park.
Is it safe to hike in the summer?
Answer: Generally, no. Many trails close in the summer due to extreme heat. If you absolutely must hike, start before sunrise and bring a lot of water. The rule of “halfway down, turn around” is popular advice.
Where can I see a good sunset/sunrise?
Answer: Dobbins Lookout at South Mountain offers fantastic city views. The “Hole in the Rock” at Papago Park is an easy, scenic spot.
Where can I see saguaro cacti?
Answer: The Desert Botanical Garden is the best place to see a variety of desert plants up close. For a natural setting, head to Usery Mountain or the Sonoran Desert.
What about wildlife?
Answer: You might see lizards, birds, and jackrabbits on hikes. For more guaranteed sightings, visit the Southwest Wildlife Conservation Center or the Desert Botanical Garden.
Can I go tubing?
Answer: Yes, tubing on the Salt River is a popular summer activity. Locals advise going early to beat the crowds and heat. You might even see the wild horses.
Where can I find an easy, scenic drive?
Answer: The Apache Trail (SR-88) is mentioned as a beautiful drive, but parts are unpaved. The drive up to Canyon Lake via the Dolly Steamboat is also a recommended scenic option.
Food & Drink
What are the must-try foods in Phoenix?
Answer:
Mexican food: Phoenix is known for its Sonoran-style Mexican food. Tacos Chiwas, Tacos Huichos, and Ta Carbon are often recommended.
Pizza: Pizzeria Bianco is a legendary, James Beard Award-winning spot.
BBQ: Little Miss BBQ and Caldwell County BBQ are top contenders.
“Bertos” joints: Filiberto’s (and other “-bertos”) are iconic for late-night, cheap Mexican food.
Cheese Crisp: A local specialty.
What’s a good restaurant with a view?
Answer: Rustler’s Rooste and T-Bone Steakhouse are popular touristy options with great views. Lons at the Hermosa and Different Point of View at Hilton Tapatio Cliffs also get mentions.
Where can I find good Mexican food?
Answer: This is a hotly debated topic. Popular spots include:
Los Dos Molinos (for spicy)
Bacanora (James Beard award-winning, requires reservations)
Tacos Chiwas
Taco Boy’s
Carolina’s Mexican Food (for no-frills burritos)
What about brunch spots?
Answer: Matt’s Big Breakfast is a Phoenix institution. The Vig Fillmore is also a recommended spot with a great patio.
Are there any good food halls or markets?
Answer: The Uptown Farmers Market and Downtown Farmers Market are popular for fresh, local food and produce.
Where can I get good craft beer?
Answer: Arizona Wilderness Brewing Co. and Wren House Brewing Co. are highly recommended for their beer and atmosphere.
Is there good Italian food in Phoenix?
Answer: Yes. Cibo, Pizzeria Bianco, and Tratto are frequently mentioned for excellent Italian cuisine.
Arts & Culture
What are the best museums to visit?
Answer:
Musical Instrument Museum (MIM): Consistently rated as a must-do and one of the best museums in the country.
Heard Museum: World-class museum focused on Native American art and history.
Phoenix Art Museum: A large and diverse collection.
What is Roosevelt Row?
Answer: A downtown arts district known for its galleries, murals, and local shops. The “First Friday” event is a popular time to visit.
Is the Desert Botanical Garden worth it?
Answer: Yes, it is consistently highly recommended, especially in the cooler months or for evening events.
Where can I see a show or concert?
Answer: Popular venues include the Crescent Ballroom, The Van Buren, and the Footprint Center (for larger acts). For a more alternative vibe, check out the Nile Theater or Yucca Tap Room.
What’s a unique or quirky spot?
Answer:
Organ Stop Pizza: A quirky pizza joint with a mighty Wurlitzer pipe organ.
Curious Nature: A shop filled with taxidermy and oddities.
Jerome: A historic, “haunted” hillside mining town often recommended for a day trip.
The Phoenix Bat Cave: A bridge near the canal where thousands of bats emerge at sunset.
What about a day trip to Tucson?
Answer: Tucson is about a two-hour drive. The Sonoran Desert Museum is a must-visit. Mount Lemmon and the Mission San Xavier del Bac are also recommended.
Family-Friendly Activities
What are some good activities for families with kids?
Answer:
Phoenix Zoo: A popular choice with a wide variety of animals.
Legoland Discovery Center & Crayola Experience: Good indoor options.
Butterfly Wonderland: A large, indoor butterfly conservatory.
Arizona Science Center: Better for older kids.
OdySea Aquarium: A large aquarium with unique exhibits.
What’s a good place for kids to cool off in the summer?
Answer: Water parks like Golfland Sunsplash, or finding a resort with a day pass to their pool.
Where can I take my kids to see cool stuff without a lot of walking?
Answer: The Musical Instrument Museum (MIM) is indoors and easy to navigate. The Heard Museum is also a good option.
Are there any good playgrounds or parks?
Answer: The Riparian Preserve at Water Ranch in Gilbert is a good spot for walks and bird watching.
Day Trips & Beyond
What are the best day trips from Phoenix?
Answer:
Sedona (scenic red rocks, hiking)
Jerome (historic, haunted town)
Prescott (cooler weather, Whiskey Row)
Tucson (Sonoran Desert Museum, Mt. Lemmon)
Payson/Mogollon Rim (forest, cooler temps)
Tonto Natural Bridge State Park
Sedona vs. Grand Canyon for a day trip?
Answer: Most travelers recommend Sedona for a day trip because it’s closer and offers a variety of hikes and sights. They suggest saving the Grand Canyon for a more dedicated, multi-day trip.
Are there any cool Route 66 spots nearby?
Answer: Yes, you can visit old Route 66 towns like Winslow (“Standing on the Corner”) and Williams (Gateway to the Grand Canyon).
Where can I go to escape the summer heat?
Answer: Drive north. Flagstaff, Prescott, Payson, and the Mogollon Rim are all at higher elevations and are significantly cooler.
What’s the best way to get to Flagstaff from Phoenix?
Answer: Take I-17 North. Be aware of heavy traffic, especially on Friday afternoons and Sunday evenings.
Miscellaneous Tips & Hacks
What’s a good hidden gem?
Answer:
Organ Stop Pizza (if you’ve never been)
The antique shops and small stores on Grand Avenue
The Phoenix Bat Cave
Boyce Thompson Arboretum near Superior
What’s the deal with “First Friday”?
Answer: It’s a monthly event in downtown Phoenix’s Roosevelt Row where art galleries and shops are open late, and street vendors and musicians take over the sidewalks.
Is Scottsdale worth visiting?
Answer: Yes, it’s considered the “nicer” part of the Valley with high-end dining, shopping at Scottsdale Fashion Square, and a famous nightlife scene in Old Town.
What should I know about driving in Phoenix?
Answer: The city is a grid, which makes it easy to navigate. Be prepared for aggressive drivers and heavy traffic during peak hours, especially on the I-10 and I-17.
What about a professional sports game?
Answer: Travelers suggest catching a Suns (NBA) or Mercury (WNBA) game downtown at the Footprint Center, a D-backs (MLB) game at Chase Field, or a Cardinals (NFL) game in Glendale.
How far is the airport from downtown?
Answer: Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) is very close to downtown, and the Light Rail has a connection to the airport via a free shuttle.
Can I see a real cowboy town?
Answer: Cave Creek is often recommended for a more authentic “Old West” vibe, with cowboy bars and horseback riders.
Are there any good bike trails?
Answer: Yes, the Scottsdale Greenbelt and the paths along the canals are great for cycling.
What is a “Sonoran hot dog”?
Answer: A hot dog wrapped in bacon, grilled, and served on a bolillo roll with toppings like beans, onions, tomatoes, and various sauces. A must-try.
What’s the best time to see the desert in bloom?
Answer: Spring (March and April) is the best time for wildflowers and cacti blooms.
More Questions & Answers
Is the Phoenix Zoo worth it?
Answer: Yes, it’s well-regarded, with beautiful trails and a variety of animals.
What’s a good place for a special occasion dinner?
Answer: El Chorro, T-Bone Steakhouse, and Lons at the Hermosa are recommended for their views and atmosphere.
Any good spots for breakfast burritos?
Answer: Filiberto’s, Carolina’s, and Rito’s are popular local choices.
What’s the deal with the “Culture Pass”?
Answer: It’s a program at Phoenix Public Library where you can check out a pass for free admission to various cultural institutions like museums and gardens.
Where can I find unique souvenirs?
Answer: The Heard Museum gift shop for authentic Native American art, or local shops in Roosevelt Row and Old Town Scottsdale.
What’s a good spot for a first date?
Answer: Cibo for Italian, or a stroll around Roosevelt Row on First Friday.
Where can I find good tacos?
Answer: Tacos Chiwas, Taco Boy’s, and Ta Carbon are top picks.
Any good karaoke spots?
Answer: Crescent Ballroom has karaoke nights, and there are some private Korean-style karaoke rooms.
Is there anything to do at night besides bars?
Answer: Catch a sports game, see a concert, or go to a drive-in movie theater.
Is it possible to visit without renting a car?
Answer: Only if you are staying in a very specific, walkable area like downtown Phoenix or Tempe and plan to use rideshare for everything else.
What’s a good place for a family lunch?
Answer: Joe’s Farm Grill in Gilbert is a popular, family-friendly spot with a unique farm setting.
Are there any good hiking tours?
Answer: Yes, many tour operators offer guided hikes for all skill levels.
Is it worth it to go to Old Town Scottsdale?
Answer: Yes, especially for nightlife, shopping, and the art galleries. It’s more of a touristy spot.
What about a day trip to the Mogollon Rim?
Answer: Highly recommended for its scenic views and cooler climate. It’s a great escape from the heat.
Where can I find good coffee shops?
Answer: The downtown area has many great local spots like Cartel Coffee Lab.
What’s a good place for a happy hour?
Answer: Many restaurants in downtown and Scottsdale have good happy hour specials. The Vig Fillmore is mentioned.
Are there any good speakeasies?
Answer: Yes, The Ostrich in Chandler and Bitter & Twisted Cocktail Parlour downtown are popular choices.
Is there a good place for sushi?
Answer: Harumi Sushi and My Sushi Friend are frequently praised.
What are the best neighborhoods to explore?
Answer: Roosevelt Row (art), Old Town Scottsdale (nightlife), and Arcadia (dining and local feel).
Any good places to see live music?
Answer: Crescent Ballroom, The Van Buren, and Yucca Tap Room.
What’s the best time to see the Superstition Mountains?
Answer: At sunrise or sunset for the best light. Peralta Trail is a popular hike with great views.
What is the Phoenix Convention Center like?
Answer: It’s a large, modern facility. It’s well-connected to downtown hotels and the Light Rail.
Where can I get a good burger?
Answer: Harvey’s Wineburger is a “5-star dive bar” known for its great burgers.
What about the Phoenix Art Museum?
Answer: It’s a great museum with diverse collections, from contemporary to European art.
Are there any good places to go antiquing?
Answer: Stuff Antiques and Curious Nature are mentioned as unique, interesting shops.
How early do I need to get up for a summer hike?
Answer: Locals say 4 AM or earlier. The sun is intense very early.
Where can I go for a scenic view of the city?
Answer: Dobbins Lookout at South Mountain or “Top of the Rock” at the Marriott.
What’s a good place for a picnic?
Answer: The Desert Botanical Garden or Papago Park.
Any recommendations for Thai food?
Answer: Glai Baan and Lom Wong are highly rated.
Where can I see a pro sports game in the summer?
Answer: The Phoenix Mercury (WNBA) and Arizona Diamondbacks (MLB) are the main options.
What’s the best way to get to the Grand Canyon?
Answer: Driving is the most common way. Some people recommend taking the train from Williams for a unique experience.
Are there any good places for a day of relaxation?
Answer: A spa day at one of the many resorts in Scottsdale or a visit to the Desert Botanical Garden.
What’s a good drive for seeing the desert landscape?
Answer: The drive on SR-87 and SR-60.
Can I ride a horse?
Answer: Yes, several stables and ranches offer horseback riding tours in the desert.
What about a hot air balloon ride?
Answer: Many companies offer hot air balloon tours, especially at sunrise.
Where can I find a good local bakery?
Answer: Bak&Jo is a recommended spot.
Any good places for kids’ activities in the summer?
Answer: Indoor activities like the Arizona Science Center, OdySea Aquarium, or a movie theatre.
What’s a good spot to take pictures?
Answer: Papago Park, the Desert Botanical Garden, and the vibrant murals of Roosevelt Row.
What should I be aware of when driving in the summer?
Answer: Canned drinks can explode in your car, and the steering wheel can get dangerously hot. Use a sunshade.
What’s a good place for an off-road day trip?
Answer: The desert areas north of Phoenix or certain forest roads near Payson.
Where can I find a good view of the city lights?
Answer: Dobbins Lookout at South Mountain is a popular spot for a night view.
Are there any good breweries besides the main ones?
Answer: Roses by the Stairs and Greenwood Brewery get mentions.
What’s a good day trip that’s not as well-known?
Answer: Bisbee, a historic mining town with a quirky, artistic vibe, is a bit further but worth it.
Is a pool day a good idea in the summer?
Answer: Yes, it’s one of the best ways to deal with the heat. Many resorts offer day passes.
What is a “Sonoran Dog”?
Answer: It’s a bacon-wrapped hot dog, grilled and served in a split-top bun with toppings like pinto beans, onions, tomatoes, mustard, and mayonnaise.
Is the Grand Canyon a good day trip from Phoenix?
Answer: It’s a very long day, but doable. Most locals recommend at least an overnight stay to fully enjoy it.
Where can I get good Mexican food in the Southeast Valley?
Answer: La Ristra and Republica Empanada are recommended spots.
What about good pizza in the Southeast Valley?
Answer: Sal’s Gilbert Pizza is a local favorite for NY style.
Is the drive to Sedona scenic?
Answer: Yes, the drive up I-17 and then into Sedona is very scenic as the landscape changes from desert to red rocks.
Any final tips for a visitor?
Answer: Locals emphasize drinking plenty of water, doing outdoor activities early, and renting a car to see the full scope of the area. Don’t underestimate the size of the city.