Phoenix

Why would anybody want to start a city in the middle of a desert? The answer is, surprisingly, agriculture. The Salt and Verde Rivers of central Arizona were exploited for large-scale agriculture by Native Americans as early as the 11th century. The area that now encompasses Phoenix was a center of the Hohokam culture, which built large canal systems and a network of towns and villages, whose remains may be viewed in the city to this day. White settlers discovered the remnants of the Hohokam culture in the 19th century. The city's name reflects its history as a city "reborn from the ashes" of the previous settlement.
European-American settlement of the area commenced in the 1860s, and in 1911 the completion of the first of several large reservoirs in the mountains north and east of Phoenix insured its success as a center for irrigation-based agriculture. Many tens of thousands of acres were planted in citrus and cotton and other crops, and for many years, intensive, year-round irrigated agriculture formed the basis of the economy. The area is being revived, and trendy hotels, bars, shops and restaurants are making it a place to be again.
Warm and sunny winter weather also ensured a thriving tourism industry, and encouraged many Easterners and Midwesterners to relocate to Phoenix. High-tech industry began to flourish after World War II, and since that time the growth of Phoenix has been explosive. As a result, a population of just over 100,000 in 1950 has grown to over 1.5 million in 2014 (with almost 4.5 million in the metro area).

Climate

Phoenix has an arid climate with long, hot summers and very mild winters. It has the highest average temperature of any metropolitan area in the States. The weather varies enormously from one season to the next. While it's not as cold as in the northern states during the winter, it does freeze sometimes, and temperatures in the 30s°F (that's around or slightly above 0°C) are not unheard of. In the summer, very hot and dry heat is the norm. On the hottest days, it can get up to 115°F (46°C) or more, but never unpleasant due to low humidity. Monsoon rains with lightning occur regularly from July to September during the late afternoon and evening, occasionally overnight also. April is the most ideal month. In some neighborhoods, cicada insects make loud sounds from sunset to sunrise.

English is the dominant language in Phoenix. However, like much of the Southwest with a large Hispanic population, Spanish is very widely spoken in Phoenix. Spanish is a language often used for day-to-day discourse in many places, although English is the language of preference, especially when dealing with businesses and government.

By plane

Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport

is the main air gateway to Arizona. It is at the southeast end of Downtown. It is a hub for American Airlines and Southwest Airlines. Terminals are numbered from 2-4. There is no Terminal 1.

• Terminal 2: Alaska (Gates 10 & 11), Great Lakes (Gates C & D), Spirit, Sun Country, United, Boutique Air
• Terminal 3: Delta, Frontier, Hawaiian, JetBlue
• Terminal 4: Aeroméxico, Air Canada, American, British Airways, Condor, Southwest, Volaris, WestJet
• To get to/from the airport:

• Valley Metro #13 goes west to S 75th Ave along S Buckeye (via Greyhound depot) from Terminal 2.
• The free PHX skytrain goes from Terminal 3/4 to 44th & Washington St Station where you can catch the #1 (west to the downtown Central Station or east to Priest & Washington in Tempe); #44 bus (north to the Desert Ridge Marriott Resort in Deer Valley along N 44th St & Tatum); or the light rail (east to Tempe & Mesa or west to Midtown and northern Phoenix along Central Ave).

Alternative airports

• Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport (AZA) +1 480 988-7600 is east of Phoenix, in neighboring Mesa. It is served by Allegiant Air and Westjet (flying from Canada). This is a smaller-sized airport, but is being redeveloped into a major regional airport.

• Phoenix Deer Valley Airport

  phone: +1 623 869-0975
  is the busiest general aviation airport in the U.S. The FBO Cutter Aviation provides aviation fuel and a variety of guest services.

Private aviation

There are more than 20 airports within 50 nautical miles of Phoenix. The Deer Valley Airport is the busiest private airport in Arizona and one of the most important business jet hubs west of the Mississippi. Air charter companies including Valley Jet and Phoenix Jet Charter offer access to private planes based at any of the airports in the Phoenix-area, with planes ranging from luxury jets to cost-effective single & twin engine planes. Other private aviation airports include:

• Scottsdale Airport

  address: around north in Scottsdale via US 51
  It's one of the busiest single-runway airports in the United States, and Signature Flight Support and Ross Aviation operate the two private terminals.

• Glendale Municipal Airport

  address: just west of the AZ-101 Loop and south of W Northern Ave, around west of Glendale’s central business district in Maricopa County, AZ
  Categorized as a general aviation reliever airport and able to accommodate most size aircraft.

• Phoenix Goodyear Airport

  address: to the southwest in Goodyear, just south of I-10 and just west of the Agua Fria River
  The airport is not served by any airlines, and is home to several aircraft maintenance and commercial pilot training companies. Lux Air operates the airport's only FBO.

• Falcon Field

  address: due east of Phoenix off the Red Mountain Freeway in Maricopa County, just northeast of Mesa, who owns and operates the airport
  Falcon Field is home to the CAE Oxford Aviation Academy, the world's largest flight school, and Boeing operates an AH-64 Apache helicopter factory adjacent to the airport.

• Chandler Municipal Airport

  address: just under southeast of Phoenix via I-10S and AZ-202 Loop E (Santan Freeway) in Chandler
  There are no airlines operating at CHD, and it is one of the 50 busiest general aviation airports in the United States, even though its runway limits operations to smaller aircraft and light business jets.

• Buckeye Municipal Airport

  address: west of Phoenix via I-10 E in the city of Buckeye
  There are no commercial services at this airport, which is categorized by the FAA as a general aviation facility.

By train

Due to a dispute among the Arizona Department of Transportation, the Union Pacific Railroad, and Amtrak, passenger train service to Phoenix has been discontinued, making it the largest city without Amtrak service in the US. Therefore the nearest station is south of Phoenix in the town of Maricopa and is connected to Phoenix, Tempe and Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport by an Amtrak Thruway Shuttle (operated by Stagecoach Express) or by taxi. Maricopa is served by the Sunset Limited which runs three times a week between New Orleans and Los Angeles. Additionally, Amtrak's Texas Eagle service between San Antonio and Chicago incorporates the Sunset Limited to provide a direct connection to Los Angeles with the same stops as the Sunset Limited between San Antonio and Los Angeles. Both trains stop in Benson, Tucson, Maricopa and Yuma.
Alternatives: disembark at Flagstaff instead and take a Greyhound bus into Phoenix from there or disembark in Tucson and take a Greyhound bus into Phoenix; the Greyhound station in Tucson is about 5-6 blocks west of the Amtrak depot. The Southwest Chief runs through Flagstaff on its way between Chicago and Los Angeles with stops in Winslow, Flagstaff, Williams and Kingman. For much of its route, the Southwest Chief follows historic Route 66, and offers an interesting perspective of the historic road and its surroundings.

By car

There are 3 main routes that enter through Phoenix: Interstate 17, Interstate 10, and US-60, also known as the Phoenix-Wickenburg Highway. These routes are the best for being able to move and get around the city. If getting there, these are also ideal for travelling. In Downtown Phoenix, I-10, and I-17 can be congested with traffic, but, normally these are the fastest routes for getting to and going from Phoenix.

By bus

There are multiple long distance bus lines and van shuttles serving Phoenix from Los Angeles, Las Vegas, El Paso, Tucson, Sedona, Flagstaff, Yuma & Nogales in the U.S. and from Nogales, Hermosillo, Puerto Peñasco and Culiacán in Mexico. Each company has a stop or their own bus station in different parts of town that are far from each other. The bus stations and stops in the neighborhoods northwest of the I-17/I-10 junction, northwest of the downtown core, are in rough neighborhoods.

• Arizona ShuttleRegularly scheduled shuttle service from Phoenix Sky Harbor (Airport) to Tucson, Prescott, Sedona & Flagstaff

• El Paso-Los Angeles Limousine Express

  phone: +1 602 254-4101
  address: (Bus depot) 1015 N 7th St
  Travels along I-10 between Los Angeles & El Paso on one route and up to Las Vegas on another route.

• Flixbus

  address: (bus stop) 44th St Sky Train Station by airport
  They also have an additional "north Phoenix" stop in front of the High & Rye Restaurant at 5310 E High St and another one in Tempe

• Greyhound Lines, Autobus Americanos & Cruceros USA

  phone: +1 602 389-4200
  address: (Bus depot) 2115 E Buckeye
  Greyhound travels primarily on Interstate 10 (Los Angles-Phoenix-Tuscon-El Paso); I-17 (Phoenix-Sedona-Flagstaff). Some of their schedules continue east on I-40 towards Oklahoma City whiles others go west towards Las Vegas from Flagstaff; AZ-85/I-8 (Phoenix-Gila Bend-Yuma-San Diego). Passengers transfer to other buses in Los Angeles, El Paso, Flagstaff, Oklahoma City, Las Vegas, San Diego and/or San Bernardino to get to other cities in the U.S. and in Nogales, Calexico/Mexicali and El Paso/Cd Juarez to get to other cities in Mexico. Prices vary by destination.

• Hoang Express

  phone: +1 714 839-3500, +1 408 729-7885
  address: (Bus stop) Lams Supermarket @ 6740 W Indian School Rd
  Travels between Southern California (San Diego, El Monte, Los Angeles, Westminster) and Arizona (Phoenix, Chandler and Tempe). There is also a stop at the COFOC Chinese Center on 668 N 44th St.

• Transportes Baldomero Corral (TBC)

  phone: +1 602 258-2445
  address: (Bus stop) 3106 W Thomas Rd
  Goes down to Hermosillo via Tucson and Nogales.

• TAP Royal

  phone: +1 602 272-3030
  address: (Bus depot) 2707 W McDowell Rd
  There is also a stop at La Salsita Restaurant at 2345 E Van Buren. Offers bus service between California, Arizona and Las Vegas NV in the U.S. and along the Hwy 15 corridor towards Guadalajara through several cities and towns in Sonora, Sinaloa, Nayarit and Jalisco in Mexico. Additional stops in Tucson and Nogales between Phoenix and the US/Mexican border.

• Transportes Express

  phone: +1 602 442-6670
  address: (Office) 131 N 28th Ave
  Runs van shuttles from Phoenix to Nogales via Tucson; Calexico; San Luis and Yuma; Puerto Peñasco or Caborca through Lukeville/Sonoyta; and Douglas/Agua Prieta on separate routes.

• Transportes Nenas

  phone: +1 602 442-6802
  address: (Shuttle Depot) 3521 W McDowell St
  Runs van shuttles between Phoenix and Rocky Point in Puerto Peñasco via Lukeville and Sonoyta.

• TUFESA

  phone: +1 602 415-9900
  address: (Bus depot) 1614 N 27th Ave
  Offers bus service between (Southern) California, Arizona and Nevada in the U.S. and along the Hwy 15 corridor in Sonora and Sinaloa in Mexico. There's also a taxi stand at the Tufesa bus station for onward local travel.

Phoenix is a very car-centered city. If you plan to stay or visit any of the cities on the periphery of the metro area, a rental car will likely be required. However, if you plan to stick to the Tempe-Downtown Phoenix area, the Light Rail is a viable option, with an all-day adult pass running roughly $3.50. So if you are in the United states without a car consider that. Taxis are typically fairly easy to find in proximity to major light rail stops and in popular areas, and will run you from $10-15 for a fairly local trip to well over $100 for a ride to a distant suburb.
Surface roads are usually easy to navigate. The area's roads are designed around a grid system, where most roads are numbered based on their distance from the city center. Addresses also conform to the numbering of the roads around them. Nearly all streets run with the compass directions, and there's a major thoroughfare at every mile in each direction. Central Ave divides east from west while Washington St divides north from south. The numbered roads go north and south, parallel to Central Ave, with "avenues" west of Central and "streets" east of Central Ave such as 7th Ave going parallel on the west side of Central Ave while 7th St parallels along the east. The named roads go across east and west and can be "roads", "avenues" or "streets". This also applies to the extended metro area, though addresses in places like Tempe and Mesa have their own numbering system and are not based on downtown Phoenix.
There is an extensive network of freeways, most built since 1987 and some more recent. Heavy construction on some segments and interchanges continues. Check construction schedules and closures in the local media.
Drinking and driving laws are very heavily enforced in Phoenix, especially in Scottsdale and Tempe. Harsh DUI laws & police traps ensure you will most likely be pulled over during peak bar hours 11PM-2:30AM. Mandatory jail time and extremely heavy fines make drinking and driving a very unwise decision in Maricopa County.

• Valley Metro. Extensive metropolitan bus system, and light rail line. The light rail line runs from north-central Phoenix, along the Central Ave. corridor, through downtown, past the airport, and to Tempe and Mesa. One-ride or all day passes may be purchased at varying prices depending on service and location.

• A single ride on a non-express bus or the light rail is $2.
• 1-day passes are $4 from machines, but $6 on board buses.
• The DASH is a free bus that runs M-F 6:30AM-6:30PM between downtown and the state capitol stopping at various government buildings such as city hall.

Car rental is the most convenient form of transportation for visitors, with local companies offering better prices but national chains offering more convenience vis-a-vis return policies and times.

Car hire Unlike most cities, in Phoenix you can get a sedan, SUV or even a limo to pick you up for about the same price as a cab.

• ride-sharing (Uber/Lyft), is very popular. Waymo (self-driving vehicles) are available in the Chandler/Mesa/Tempe Gilbert area (100 sq mi area), though need to enroll to use.

• The cultural, governmental, and business center of the city is Copper Square, which is striving to become one of the southwest's most distinctive urban centers. Copper Square was built around the original Phoenix historic town site. Its boundaries extend from Fillmore to south of Jackson Street, 7th Street to 3rd Avenue. Revitalization plans in the area are expected to cost more than $4 billion and aim to increase artistic, cultural and entertainment activity. The presence of two state universities (ASU and U of A) and a new convention center are also significantly changing the physical and economic shape of the Phoenix downtown area.
• Downtown and Central Phoenix are home to several historic neighborhoods. These range from turn of the century Victorian to mid-century modern architecture. Some of the more well-known districts include Coronado, Encanto-Palmcroft, FQ Story, Willo and Woodlea. The historic homes in these districts are private residences and not normally open to the public, but the neighborhoods are very pleasant to walk around. Some districts hold annual home tours when several houses in a neighborhood are open to the public, all covered by one ticket usually costing about $10. For example the FQ Story home tour is normally held shortly before Christmas.
• Roosevelt Historic District. This area has retooled itself from a run-down, drug-infested area to the epicenter of the Central Phoenix art scene. This emerging neighborhood has become home to artist live/work spaces, gallery spaces and studio spaces. Since 1994 the monthly First Friday's (first Friday each month) artwalk (7th St to 3rd Ave) has grown to become the largest monthly artwalk in the U.S. Increasing interest in this area has prompted Rooselvelt Row to becoming more pedestrian-friendly and is supportive of small local independent businesses that give Downtown Phoenix character.
• Scottsdale Old Town. Scottsdale Rd & Indian School. Restaurants and art galleries. Thursday evening art walk 7-9p.

Parks and outdoors

• Desert Botanical Garden

  phone: +1 480 941-1225
  address: 1201 N Galvin Pkwy
  50 acres of exhibits showcasing desert plants, with an emphasis on plant life of the Sonoran Desert and arid lands around the world. It includes many examples of ethnobotany, or how plants are used to survive in the desert. As a consequence of the many plants in this area there are also many desert animals such as lizards, birds, and occasional roadrunners.

• Ro Ho En Japanese Friendship Garden

  phone: +1 602 256-3204
  address: 1125 N 3rd Ave
  Japanese-style garden with koi pond and tea house. Closed in the summer due to heat.

• Deer Valley Petroglyph Preserve

  phone: +1 623 582-8007
  address: 3711 W Deer Valley Rd.
  features a museum and visitor center dedicated to the preservation of historic petroglyphs and pictographs at the base of Hedgpeth Hills. A must see for geologists and archaeologists.

Museums

• Arizona Science Center

  phone: +1 602 716-2000
  address: 600 E Washington St
  This center features 350 permanent hands-on exhibits and regularly hosts nationally acclaimed traveling exhibits. Also features a 5-story IMAX theater and planetarium.
• Phoenix Trolley Museum

• Heard Museum

  phone: +1 602 252-8848
  address: 2301 N Central Ave
  World famous museum celebrating Native American cultures and arts, especially those of Arizona and New Mexico. Be sure to check out the amazing collection of Hopi Kachina dolls.

• Phoenix Art Museum

  phone: +1 602 257-1222
  address: 1625 N Central Ave
  16,000 artworks with an emphasis on American, Asian, Latin American, and modern and contemporary.

• Arizona State Capitol Museum

  phone: +1 602-926-3620
  address: 1700 W Washington St
  The Arizona Capitol Museum uses a balance of technology, hands-on activities, historical artifacts, and public programs to help visitors learn about and interact with the government of the 48th state.

• The Gallery at City Hall

  address: 200 West Washington St
  Small, free art gallery on 1st floor of Phoenix City Hall with some of the over 1000 pieces of art on display from the city of Phoenix Municipal Art Collection which began in 1915.

• Musical Instrument Museum

  phone: +1 480 478-6000
  address: 4725 East Mayo Blvd
  Has many exhibits where you can see and hear the history of music from around the world. There's also a room for kids of all ages to try out instruments.

• Phoenix Police Museum

  phone: +1 602-534-7278
  address: 200 W Jefferson St
  On the first floor of the historic city hall, it gives the history of the Phoenix Police Department in historic and modern context. Starts with a rock with shackles, which was the original jail. Even has the police department's first helicopter. There's a small exhibit dedicated to Miranda and Miranda rights and a memorial for 9/11.

• Children's Museum of Phoenix

  phone: +1 602 253-0501
  address: 215 N 7th St
  Third best children's museum in the country.

• Hall Of Flame Fire Museum

  phone: +1 602-275-FIRE
  address: 6101 E Van Buren St
  Almost an acre of fire history exhibits, with over 90 fully restored pieces of fire apparatus on display, dating from 1725 to 1969.

• Wells Fargo Museum

  phone: +1 602 378-1852
  address: 145 W Adams St

Historical

• Pueblo Grande Museum and Archaeological Park

  phone: +1 602 495-0901
  address: (Museum Bldg) 4619 E Washington St
  The U.S.'s only city-operated archaeological site, preserving a 1500-year-old Hohokam ruin in the shadow of Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport. This ruin is one of only two Hohokam mounds remaining in the metro Phoenix area (the other being the underdeveloped Mesa Grande ruins). The museum and site is comparable to the more famous (and more remote) Casa Grande Ruins National Monument, but the visible ruins are not as large.

• Orpheum Theatre

  phone: +1 602 262-6225
  address: 203 W Adams St
  Be sure to take a walk around this amazing piece of historic architecture set in downtown Phoenix. Built in 1929 in the Spanish Baroque style, this building feature intricate murals and moldings.

• USS Arizona Memorial at the Arizona State Capitol

  address: 1700 W Washington
  Pay your respects to the victims of Pearl Harbor at the Arizona State Capitol's memorial to the USS Arizona. One of the two 19,585-lb (8880-kg) anchors of the Arizona is displayed.

• Pioneer Living History Village

  phone: +1 623 465-1052
  address: 3901 W Pioneer Rd
  A historically accurate recreation of an 1800s frontier town between Phoenix and Anthem. Over 30 buildings provide a living example of what frontier life was like then.

• Arizona Biltmore Hotel24th St and Camelback Rd. Visit this legendary Phoenix landmark built in 1921 and has hosted famous guests such as Fred Astaire, Marilyn Monroe, Bob Hope, and the President of the United States when he is in town.

• Wrigley Mansion

  phone: +1 602 955-4079
  address: 2501 E Telawa Trl
  Take a tour of the amazing architecture and grounds of this historic mansion built by the famous chewing gum magnate.

• Tovrea Castle

  phone: +1 602 256-3221
  address: 5025 E Van Buren St
  Tovrea Castle is a historic structure and landmark, which is particularly visible to drivers on Arizona State Route 202. It was intended as a centerpiece for a resort, but was used as a private residence for the Tovrea family, who owned the Phoenix Stockyards which once were adjacent to the property. The rococo style building was constructed in a unique three-tier fashion which has resemblance to a traditional multilayered wedding cake. The castle is now part of the Phoenix parks system and is designated as one of the Phoenix Points of Pride. The park shows over 5,000 cacti in over 100 varieties, all maintained by volunteers of the Tovrea Carraro Society. There's only 1-2 tours on weekend mornings, so they can sell out months in advance.

• Rosson House Museum

  phone: +1 602 262-5070
  address: 113 N 6th St
  A fully-restored 1895 Queen Anne Victorian house museum which interprets the history of Phoenix. The only way to enter the house is through an hour-long tour which runs hourly.

Winter visitors to the area will generally be looking for outdoor events. The area has many resorts with the relevant amenities, such as golf courses and the requisite pools and other activities on site. In the summer, due to the extreme heat, virtually everyone tries to avoid being outside more than necessary.

• Castles N' Coasters

  phone: +1 602-997-7575
  address: 9445 North Metro Parkway East
  Largest amusement park in town, and the only one with roller coasters and other thrill rides. Also has four mini-golf courses and a two-story arcade.

• Enchanted Island Amusement Park

  Great rides for children pre-k - 5th grade. Train that circles the park. Canoe rental.

• Cityscape

  phone: +1 480-947-7772
  address: One East Washington
  Mixed use urban project which includes retail, shopping and entertainment such as a pub, comedy club, bowling alley and various restaurants. From late November through early January there is a holiday ice skating rink called Cityskate which has an admission fee ($12 to $15 which includes skate rental), nightly lightshows from 7 to 10PM and a 36 foot tall Christmas tree.

• FilmBar

  phone: +1 602-595-9187
  address: 815 n 2nd St
  A microcinema (70 seats) and lounge for those aged 21 and older showing mostly independent and foreign movies for $8 per ticket. The bar (no entrance fee) has 30 craft beers and 15 wines available. Tickets available online or at the bar. It was named the Best Neighborhood Bar in Downtown Phoenix for 2012.

• Downtown Phoenix Farmers Market

  address: 721 North Central Ave
  Farmers market open year round offering fresh produce, prepared food and food trucks.

• The Nash

  phone: +1 602 795-0464
  address: 110 E. Roosevelt St
  Venue which hosts live jazz music a few nights every week. Check website for exact event schedule and cost (cover varies from $5 to $15). BYOB-corkage fee of $5 for bottle of wine and $1 for bottle of beer. Listed as Best Jazz Joint in 2013 by the Phoenix New Times.

• Rainbow Ryders Hot Air Balloon Rides

  address: 5601 Eagle Rock Ave NE
  Scenic hot air balloon rides daily in Phoenix and Scottsdale.

• Arizona Grand Spa

  phone: +1 602 431-6484
  address: 8000 S Arizona Grand Pkwy
  A wide variety of spa treatments including a salon, relaxing body treatments, hydrating facials, & “just for kids” treatments.

Outdoor recreation

• Camelback Mountain

  phone: +1 602 256-3220
  The most recognizable landmark of the area, Camelback Mountain rises to 2,704 ft (824 m) at its summit. It sits between Phoenix to the south and Paradise Valley to the North. The lower areas of the mountain contain some of the most exclusive residences in the Valley, with the upper sections now part of a park. There are very challenging and difficult hiking trails to the summit that are not recommended for any but experienced hikers. As well, parking near the mountain is extremely limited. The mountain consists of red rock, and is in the general shape of a camel's silhouette. A rock formation on the mountain is known as Praying Monk. The park also contains Echo Canyon.

• Piestewa Peak

  phone: +1 602 262-7901
  address: 2701 E Squaw Peak Ln or 2421 E Northern Ave
  In the middle of Phoenix lies Phoenix Mountains Park. The park offers a strenuous one to two hour hike to the top of Piestewa Peak, offering fantastic 360° views of the city and its surrounding environment. The other well known mountain in the area (Camelback Mountain being the most well known), the peak was formerly known as "Squaw Peak" prior to being renamed in honor of Army Spc. Lori Ann Piestewa who was the first Native American woman killed in combat in the U.S. military in 2003. Due to the name change visitors will find references to the peak under both names (for instance, the road leading to the park on the south side of the mountain still has the prior name). This mountain, whose summit rises to 2,608 ft (817 m), is much more accessible to visitors than is Camelback Mountain. Picnic areas exist both on the south side of the mountain (Phoenix Mountains Park entrance on Squaw Peak Ln) and the north side (Dreamy Draw Park, entrance via Northern Ave). Especially during the hot summer months (up to 110-115°F/43°C in the afternoon), use caution and bring lots of water and a hat. There is no shade and parts of the trail can be quite steep and rocky. The Park also has several picnic areas.

• North Mountain

  phone: +1 602 262-7901
  address: 7th St north of Peoria Ave
  Picnic areas, hiking trails, excellent view of the city from above. An oasis of desert inside the city limits.Good available parking. Easier hike than Piestawa Peak or Camelback Mountain.

• South Mountain ParkSouth Mountain Park and Preserve is the largest municipal park in the United States. With more than 16,000 acres, it has 51 miles of trails for horseback riding, hiking and mountain biking. By driving up the scenic Summit Road to Dobbins Lookout, you will be treated to spectacular views of metropolitan Phoenix area.

• Ben Avery Shooting Facility

  phone: +1 623 582-8313
  address: 4044 W Black Canyon Blvd
  The largest outdoor shooting facility in the country. The favorable weather provides excellent year-round conditions for shooting. Eye protection is required; ear protection is recommended.

• Oasis Water Park

Golf

• Arizona Grand Golf Course

  phone: +1 602 431-6480
  address: 8000 S Arizona Grand Pkwy
  Awarded the Four-Star Award by Golf Digest, Arizona Grand Golf Course is one of the most challenging golf courses in the Phoenix area and blends desert target golf with traditional links.

• Arizona Biltmore Golf Course

Performing arts

• Phoenix Symphony

  phone: +1 602 495-1999
  address: 455 N 3rd St
  The city's classical and pops orchestra, presenting a 25-week season of concerts.

• Arizona Opera

  phone: +1 602 266-7464
  address: 4600 N 12th St
  Presenting a season of five grand opera productions, with emphasis on Verdi, Puccini, and Mozart.

• Arizona Theatre CompanyProfessional theater in downtown Phoenix's Herberger theater complex.

• Mesa Arts Center

  phone: +1 480 644-6500
  address: 1 E Main St, Mesa
  Contemporary art displays and studios. Home of the Southwest Shakespeare Company and the Mesa Symphony Orchestra.

• Phoenix Theatre

  phone: +1 602-889-5286
  address: 100 E. McDowell Ave
  Professional theatre in an intimate setting. New Works Festival in July.

Sports

Tickets to professional sports events are expensive, but there are still $12.50 seats at the Diamondbacks games, not available until 2 hours before the game. Definitely not the best seats, but worth visiting the downtown Phoenix ballpark.
Spring Training Cactus League is a great way to see baseball players. Very relaxed and inexpensive. Games are in different locations in Mesa, Peoria, and Phoenix.
The Cardinals stadium is worth a visit, as it looks like a giant spaceship by the side of the freeway.

• Arizona Diamondbacks

  phone: +1 602 514-8400
  address: 7th St and Jefferson
  Take in a baseball game at the unique Chase Field (often called "The BOB", from its former name of Bank One Ballpark). It has a capacity of 49,033, with a retractable roof, air conditioning, and a swimming pool available for rental.

• Phoenix Suns

  address: 201 E Jefferson St
  Very popular NBA team featuring players such as Eric Bledsoe and Brandon Knight. The Suns play at Talking Stick Resort Arena which is near a light rail station.
• The Arizona Cardinals of the NFL, and the Arizona Coyotes of the NHL, play in neighboring Glendale.

• Phoenix Mercury

  address: 201 E Jefferson St
  Very popular WNBA team. Shares Talking Stick Resort Arena with the Suns.

• Cactus League Spring Training Baseball

  address: Phoenix and Surrounding Cities
  Annually February - March the Phoenix Metropolitan Area hosts 15 Major League Baseball teams for their spring training activities and exhibition games. A great way to spend the afternoon on a beautiful Arizona Spring day.

• Arizona State Sun Devils

  phone: +1 480 727-0000
  address: Sun Devil Stadium, 500 E Veterans Way, Tempe
  The teams representing Arizona State University, competing in the Pac-12 Conference alongside other major universities throughout the western third of the country. Most of the athletic facilities are on campus, with the best-known being Sun Devil Stadium (football) and Wells Fargo Arena (basketball). Tickets are often more affordable than those for professional sports.

• Grand Canyon Antelopes

  phone: +1 602 639-8979
  address: GCU Arena, 330 W Camelback Rd
  The teams representing Grand Canyon University, competing in the Western Athletic Conference. The Antelopes, who don't have a football team, have now completed a transition to NCAA Division I sports. As with ASU, most of GCU's athletic facilities are on campus. In the last couple of years, the GCU student section, known as the Havocs, has developed a reputation as one of the loudest and most energetic in American college sports.

Events

• Phoenix Festival of the Arts

  address: Margaret T. Hance Park, 1202 N. 3rd St
  A 3-day festival in December held at Margaret T. Hance Park in downtown Phoenix that features local artists and exhibitors selling art, a community mural, food trucks, performances on 2 stages and a beer and wine garden.

• Real, Wild and Woody Beer Festival

  address: Phoenix Convention Center (South Building), 33 South 3rd Street
  Annual one-day beer festival in late July hosted by Arizona Craft Brewers Guild in downtown Phoenix with more than 50 local brewers offering local and unusual beers. The admission fee ($60 for 2019) includes attendance to the event, 20 beer sampling tickets and food samples. An event for those aged 21 and older.

• First Fridays ArtwalkOn the first Friday of every month, hundreds of local art galleries, venues, and shops open up free to the public. This local tradition has been going strong since 1994 and has become the largest art walk in the United States. A great place to see and be seen. (Parking at Burton Barr library for First Friday is forbidden, and parking is difficult to obtain nearby. Consider taking the light rail.)

• Phoenix Film Festival

  address: 7000 E Mayo Blvd, Scottsdale
  The celebration takes place annually (April) in the city of Phoenix, Arizona. The festival began as a showcase for feature films made for under $1 million and short films made for under $50,000, however, it is quickly climbing its way into elite status in the film circuit due to its first class treatment of filmmakers.

• Arizona Matsuri

  address: Heritage and Science Park at 7th St/Monroe
  Annual festival each spring in downtown Phoenix celebrating Japanese culture. Martial arts, taiko drumming, bonsai, cosplay, food, fashion, music, and more.

• Rock n'Roll Arizona Marathon

  address: Rural and Rio Solado Pkwy
  Annual moving mass of humanity for the Rock N'Roll half-marathon, and marathon in mid-January. Bands at every mile. Big party in the evening of the marathon. Starts in Phoenix (Washington St/7th Ave) and weaves through Phoenix, Scottsdale and Tempe to finish in the ASU athletic center. Pretty flat course, reasonable crowd support. Expo in Phoenix Convention Center, Monroe/3rd St.

• Ford Ironman Arizona

  address: Tempe Beach Park, Rio Solado Pkwy
  Swim (2.4 mi), bike (112 mi), run (26.2 mi): the same as Ironman in Kona Hawaii. Entry ($425 limited to 1,500) impossible to get unless sponsored by a charity, contestant in previous year, or part of race crew.

• Fiesta Bowl

  address: State Farm Stadium, Glendale, 99th Ave/Maryland
  One of the 4 big college football bowls. Played at the $430m State Farm Stadium (looks like a giant spaceship with a retractable playing field). Parade on Saturday before bowl at 11AM start at Central Ave/Bethany Home in Phoenix is always quite spectacular and free.

• Phoenix Open

  address: TPC Scottsdale, Bell Rd
  Phoenix Open Golf tournament in Feb draws a lot of big-name players. Big party atmosphere at the 16th hole. Lots of happenings in the evening at the Birds Nest.

• Avondale World Fest

  phone: +1 623 478-3050
  address: 11465 W Civic Center Dr
  Annual cultural festival taking place in September.

• Carnival of Illusion

  phone: +1 480-359-7469
  address: 2400 E. Missouri Ave.
  National recipients for "Excellence in Magic" Roland Sarlot and Susan Eyed present a Vaudeville-inspired illusion show. Carnival of Illusion is the longest running Arizona theater show in history.

• Arizona State UniversityIn the eastern suburb of Tempe, with three branch campuses around the Phoenix metro area, ASU is one of the largest public universities in the U.S. and is noted for its engineering, business, music, and creative writing programs.

• Maricopa Community CollegesLargest system of community colleges in the United States, with 10 campuses in the metro Maricopa County area; numerous community and adult education programs.

• Phoenix School of LawLaw school with relatively open admissions policy.

• Thunderbird School of Global ManagementWorld famous for being the first and oldest graduate school specializing in international management and global business. Ranked #1 in the world in its field.

Time-honored souvenirs from Phoenix are scorpion bolo ties and saguaro-cactus salt and pepper shakers. Look for them at various gift shops in Terminal 3 and 4 of Sky Harbor International Airport. These gift shops are also known to stock the ever-popular Cactus Candy and a wide variety of hot sauces.

• Bookmans Entertainment Exchange

  phone: +1 602-433-0255
  address: 8034 N 19th Ave
  This Tucson-based used bookstore chain also carries used CDs, DVDs, video games, etc. There is an electric vehicle charging station and free Wi-Fi, and pets are welcome in the store.

• Lawn Gnome Publishing

  phone: +1 602-682-5825
  address: 905. N Fifth St
  Used bookstore that specializes in zines in a building from the 1930s which also is a venue for open mic night every Monday from 8PM to 10PM, storytelling every Wednesday from 8 to 10PM, and a variety of other events. Across the street from Lost Leaf bar.

• Hidden Track Bottle Shop

  phone: +1 602 566-7932
  address: 111 West Monroe Street, Suite 120
  Boutique wine store in downtown Phoenix that offer wine (tasted and selected by owners), beer, chocolate, pasta and snacks. Occasional wine tastings and delivery (for a fee) of wine is available. One block from the Van Buren St light rail station and free covered parking (garage entrance on the west side of the building).

• Metrocenter

  address: 9617 N Metro Pkwy W
  Retail power center along the I-17 corridor: over 100 stores and restaurants in and around the mall. Anchor stores include a Harkins 12-screen cinema, Sears, and Dillard's. Many smaller retailers and casual dining restaurants are also in the shopping center and the surrounding areas particularly in the northern end of the mall grounds towards W Peoria. There is also a Radisson Hotel in one of the free standing buildings on the north end of the mall grounds too. The mall served as the filming location for the fictional San Dimas Mall in Bill and Teds Excellent Adventure (1989) where the historic characters brought forward in time, ran loose only to cause mayhem and gotten into trouble. It has since been renovated and no longer looks as it did in the film.

• The Shops at NorterraA major retail power center is on I-17 on the north side of Happy Valley Rd. Anchor stores include a Harkins 14-screen cinema, Best Buy, and Dick's Sporting Goods. Many smaller retailers and casual dining restaurants are also in the shopping center.

• Town & Country Shopping Center

  address: 20th St and Camelback Rd
  To the west of Biltmore Fashion Square is a mall that has been revamped and in conjunction with the Colonnade, Camelback Center serve as a bustling shopping area for the Camelback corridor. With many shopping and dinning options for both deep pockets and value seekers, nearby hotels, condos, and apartments the area has become an uptown destination or at least the beginning of your night.

• Biltmore Fashion Park

  address: 24th St and Camelback Rd
  Includes many high-end tenants such as Saks Fifth Avenue, Ralph Lauren, Cartier, and Escada; and many highly-acclaimed eateries.

• Arizona Hiking Shack

  phone: +1 602 944-7723
  address: 3244 E Thomas Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85018
  Long-running store with clothing, supplies and gear for hiking, camping, climbing and other outdoor activities.

Budget

• For cheap eats, look out for many 24-hour Mexican food places such as Filiberto's, Raliberto's and other restaurants offer a burrito the size of your forearm for less than $4.

• Chicago Hamburger Company

  phone: +1 602 955-4137
  address: 3749 E Indian School Rd
  "Home of the Original Windy City Slider" is the restaurant's slogan, and the small burgers (along with larger fare) are found here. A Chicago themed sandwich shop offering hot dogs, sandwiches and even Frito Pie (according to the menu, a former manager from Texas added it to the menu and they've left it on). This place is more what you would expect of a traditional burger joint than Delux Burger (listed below). Delux is when you want something more formal, Chicago Hamburger Company is when you want to grab a traditional burger shop-lunch.

• Chino Bandido

  phone: +1 602 375-3639
  address: 15414 N. 19th Ave, Suite K
  Strange and wonderful fusion of Mexican and Asian cuisine. It can take a little bit of work to understand how to order, so using the online interactive menu ahead of time is useful for first-timers. Ask for a sample spoon if you're not sure about a flavor combination.

• Fry Bread House

  phone: +1 602-351-2345
  address: 1003 E Indian School Rd
  Since 1992 this Tohono O'odham-owned and -operated restaurant has served authentic Native American cuisine, based on family recipes that the restaurant owner learned as a child. Specializes in frybread in all its varieties. Features an all-Native American staff.

• Green Restaurant

  phone: +1 602 258-1870
  address: 2022 N 7th St
  Reputed vegan restaurant. PETA named the secret BBQ Chicken sandwich as the best faux chicken sandwich in the USA.

• Matt's Big Breakfast

  phone: +1 602 254-1074
  address: 825 N 1st St
  Very popular breakfast restaurant in downtown Phoenix.

• Modern Tortilla

  phone: +1 602 526-5493
  Food truck which turns up at various random events and locations (a calendar is posted on their website). Street tacos, burritos, quesadillas: a mix of southwest culinary roots with classical training.

• Tee Pee Mexican Food

  phone: +1 602 956-0178
  address: 4144 E Indian School Rd
  Neighborhood Mexican food restaurant featuring fairly standard Arizona Mexican food fare at reasonable prices.

• Aioli Gourmet Burgers

  phone: +1 602 971-5555
  address: 10652 N 32nd Street
  Food truck and restaurant serving gourmet burgers.

Mid-range

• Alice Cooper'stown

  phone: +1 602 253-7337
  address: 101 E Jackson St
  Alice Cooper-themed sports bar with rock music and plenty of merchandise.

• Aunt Chilada's Squaw Peak

  phone: +1 602 944-1286
  address: 7330 N. Dreamy Draw Drive
  A historic family-run Mexican restaurant that's a popular local hangout. Large patios and beautiful traditional decor, as well as a Palapa bar and Bocce court. Excellent chips and salsa. Band every Friday night, Sunday open mic night. Breakfast on weekends.

• Cherryblossom Noodle Cafe

  phone: +1 602 248-9090
  address: 914 E Camelback Rd
  An interesting fusion of Japanese and Italian cuisine. One of the only places in the valley to offer an authentic Japanese beer, Calpico, a creamy beer with Japanese calpico brand drink mixed with lager beer.

• Delux Burger

  phone: +1 602 522-2288
  address: 3146 E Camelback Rd
  An upscale burger location, also known for its mini-shopping cart baskets of fries and a wide selection of micro-brews on tap. Has an interesting variety of salads as well as the sandwich fare. A good place when you want to have informal food but not in a totally informal setting.

• The Duce

  phone: +1 602-866-3823
  address: 525 South Central Avenue
  Large warehouse with vintage design that contains a restaurant (food served from 1965 streamline trailer), soda fountain, bar, ice cream shop, boxing ring and clothing shop.

• Garcia's Las Avenidas

  phone: +1 602 272-5584
  address: 2212 N 35th Ave
  Founded in 1957, about a half-mile north of the original location that was just south of McDowell Rd. on 35th Ave. A chain was later spawned from the restaurant, but this location remained outside the chain and under family control. Arguably, along with Macayo's, served to define what was expected of Phoenix area Mexican food.

• L'amore

  phone: +1 602 381-3159
  address: 3159 E Lincoln Dr
  Local Italian restaurant on the border of Phoenix and Paradise Valley, features fresh seafood and home made pasta.

• La Grande Orange Grocery

  phone: +1 602 840-7777
  address: 4410 N 40th St
  Popular neighborhood cafe featuring breakfast, sandwiches and grocery items, as well as pizzeria next door. Parking is often difficult in the area, though valet parking is offered as well as curbside service.

• Los Dos Molinos

  phone: +1 602 243-9113
  address: 8646 S Central Ave
  Sonoran-style dominates Phoenix-area Mexican cookery, but Los Dos celebrates the cuisine of New Mexico which means lots of very hot chiles. This long-established and highly regarded restaurant is a must for all true chile-heads. Reservations not accepted.

• Majerles Sports Grill

  phone: +1 602 253-0118
  address: 24 N. 2nd St
  Sports grill and lounge owned by former pro basketball player Dan Majerle.

• Nobuo at Teeter House

  phone: +1 602 254-0600
  address: 622 E Adams St
  Highly regarded Japanese restaurant in a renovated historic building in downtown Phoenix. The master chef is a James Beard award winner. Serving lunch and dinner Tuesday through Sunday.

• The Parlor Pizzeria

  phone: +1 602 248-2480
  address: 1916 East Camelback Rd
  Neighborhood artisan pizza restaurant, which reused the landmark Salon de Venus beauty salon building when it shut down after 60 years.

• Phoenix City Grille

  address: 5816 N 16th St
  Southwestern-themed variations on grill fare is offered by this local restaurant.

• Pita Jungle

  phone: +1 602 955-7482
  address: 4340 E Indian School Rd
  Offers a selection not only of pitas, but also of other Mediterranean inspired meals in a sit down environment.

• Pizzeria Bianco

  phone: +1 602 258-8300
  address: 623 E Adams St
  Winner of numerous awards. The chef, Chris Bianco, no longer cooks all pies, but is on premises most of the time. Small restaurant, expect lines at popular eating times (F Sa 6:30-8PM).

• Postino on Central

  phone: +1 602 274-5144
  address: 5144 N Central Ave
  Fun little wine cafe on Central Avenue, just north of Camelback Rd. Good wine selection, but the bruschetta boards are the main attraction.

• Texaz Grill

  phone: +1 602 248-STAR
  address: 6003 N 16th St
  Originally named "Lone Star Steaks" the restaurant changed its name when a national chain moved to town and wanted to sue. Offers reasonably priced steaks and exceptional Texas fare. Specialties are Chicken Fried Steak, choice aged beef and home made desserts.

• Thai Lahna

  phone: +1 602 955-4658
  address: 3738 E Indian School Rd
  East Phoenix neighborhood Thai food restaurant.

• Wildflower Bread Company

  phone: +1 602 850-8585
  address: 4290 E Indian School Rd
  Arcadia location of restaurant that serves breakfast, lunch and dinner, featuring a bakery. Lunch menu consists of sandwiches and soups, while pasta is added for dinner. Free wi-fi access and power outlets are available at the location.

• Hula's Modern Tiki

  phone: +1 602 265-8454
  address: 4700 N Central Ave # 122
  Great island-inspired food and drinks.

• Joyride Taco House

  phone: +1 602 274-8226
  address: 5202 N Central Ave
  Eatery offering elevated Mexican street eats, drinks & patio seating in a hip, colorful setting.

Splurge

• The Breadfruit

  phone: +1 602-267-1266
  address: 108 E Pierce St
  Serving Jamaican food for dinner and also has a rum bar.

• Donovan's Steakhouse Restaurant

  phone: +1 602 955-3666
  address: 3101 E Camelback Rd
  Upscale steakhouse serving high grade steaks with high grade service. Complementary valet parking provided.

• Durant's

  phone: +1 602-264-5967
  address: 2611 North Central Ave
  Classic American "special occasion" restaurant, where the price isn't listed on the menu, and the parking is valet.

• El Chorro

  phone: +1 480 948-5170
  address: 5550 E. Lincoln Drive, Paradise Valley
  At the base of both Camelback and Mummy mountains, this restaurant is well-known to locals for its views of stunning desert scenery and for the historic charm of its buildings. Even if you've just dropping by for drinks on the patio, don't miss trying the complimentary sticky buns.

• Fuego Bistro

  phone: +1 602 277-1151
  address: 713 E Palo Verde Dr
  Cozy dining room, patio beneath the stars, and a full service bar. Cuban, Puerto Rican and Latin American dishes such as Pernil Asado, Ropa Vieja and Arroz con Gandules.

• Rustler's Rooste

  phone: +1 602 431-6474
  address: 8383 South 48th St
  A steakhouse adjacent to Arizona Grand Resort, it shares an elevated, picturesque view of the metro-Phoenix area. A gigantic live bull in a pen at the front of the restaurant, a slide to the downstairs seating, cotton candy at the end of the meal, and loud live country western music are part of the ambiance. In addition to common steakhouse fare, local items include Rattlesnake with Prickly Pear Cactus Fries.

• The Stockyards Restaurant

  phone: +1 602 273-7378
  address: 5009 E Washington St
  Billed as "Arizona's Original Steakhouse", the aptly named restaurant opened for public dinning in 1947. "Steak on the hoof" was visible to visitors as they entered and exited the restaurant, as it was adjacent to the Tovrea families' 200-acre feedlot and packing house, which accommodated more than 300,000 head of cattle each year. While the cattle are now gone, the authentic western cuisine and "refreshments" remain. Includes the 1889 Saloon, which features authentic 19th-century Old West decor and furnishings, and the famous Gold Room.

• Tarbell's

  phone: +1 602 955-8100
  address: 3213 E Camelback Rd
  Chef Mark Tarbell's namesake restaurant, it features Southwestern themed cuisine and local organic ingredients. Per the website, dress is "resort casual" defined as "everything from denim to diamonds."

• Quiessance Restaurant

  phone: +1 602 276-0601
  address: 6106 S 32nd St
  Farm-to-table fresh delicious food.

• Richardson's and Rokerji

  phone: +1 602 265 5886
  address: 6339 N 16th St
  Richardson's serves some of the spiciest New Mexican cuisine in Arizona on copper-topped tables and bars. The Rokerij (pronounced ro-ker-ee) means “smokehouse in Dutch” and features a great selection of steaks, chops, fresh fish and “small plates.” Don’t miss the down stairs bar. Both feature dim-lighting and great service. Reservations for parties of 6 or more suggested.

Vegetarian

• True Foods, Biltmore shopping center (24th/Camelback) and The Quarter (Hayden/Greenway & Scottsdale Rd - N Scottsdale). Good variety of vegetarian options (as well as meat)
• Flower Child, Uptown (Camelback/Central), Desert Ridge (Tatum/101), Arcadia (44th St/Camelback). Similar menu to True Foods, counter service.
• Original Chop Shop, Arcadia (32nd St/Campbell), Scottsdale (Old Town), N Scottsdale (101/Scottsdale Rd), Tempe (Rural/University), Chandler . Fast casual, counter service, good vegetarian options, along with traditional meat protein.
• Grabbagreen, N Phoenix (Bell/Tatum

Phoenix SkyHarbor Airport

• Terminal 4, great eating options both in pre-security and next to boarding gates.

• Deluxe, A22, very good burgers
• Chelseas kitchen , pre-security, (part of LGO group), fresh menu
• La Grande Orange, D1
• Matts Big Breakfast,
• Four Peaks Brewery
• Lolo's chicken and waffles, pre-security
• Barrio Cafe
• Cowboy Ciao, B22
• Sir Vezas Taco Garage, C13
• Los Taquitos, C3
• Zinc Brasserie,

Phoenix as a metropolitan area offers a considerable amount of nightlife, though with the fact that the city is so spread out it can be difficult and dangerous to attempt traversing the city on a big night out. Generally, the nightlife is centered around the sub-cities of the metro area. Within Phoenix, bars tend to cluster within the Midtown or Downtown areas, while in the surrounding areas, Scottsdale offers a lively bar and club scene, Tempe is popular with students given the proximity to the University, and the city centers for Chandler and Glendale both offer some good options if you're in the suburbs. Downtown Mesa lacks any appreciable nightlife given its strong ties to the Mormon church.

• The Lost Leaf

  phone: +1 602 258-0014
  address: 914 N. 5th St
  Bar in a renovated bungalow from 1922 that features art and live music nightly with no cover charge. More than 100 different kinds of beer, wine and sake available.

• The Rose & Crown

  phone: +1 602-256-0223
  address: 628 East Adams St
  British pub with over 50 local and import beers and English and American food. In 2011 the Phoenix New Times named it the Best English pub in Phoenix.

• Hanny's

  phone: +1 602-252-2285
  address: 40 North First Street
  Swanky and stylish bar and restaurant in a historic Phoenix building constructed in the 1940s serving food such as pizza, sandwiches and salads and a variety of cocktails. $5 classic martinis served all day

• Bar Smith's Rooftop Lounge

  phone: +1 602 456-1991
  address: 130 E. Washington St
  Downtown Phoenix bar and restaurant with Phoenix's only rooftop dance floor that attracts a young crowd. Nightclub is open Wed thru Sat.

• Angels Trumpet Ale House

  phone: +1 602 252-2630
  address: 810 North Second St
  Bar and restaurant with 31 rotating craft beers on tap serving lunch and dinner. 3,000-foot patio with a diverse menu with snacks, flatbreads and sandwiches.

• Crescent Ballroom

  phone: +1 602 716-2222
  address: 308 N 2nd Ave
  A 7000-square-foot lounge, restaurant and music venue in a red brick warehouse built in 1917 which hosts live music every day. Happy hour is Monday-Thursday from 3-6PM and Friday from 11AM-6PM with $2 PBR, $3 wells and $3 local drafts.

• Seamus McCaffrey's

  phone: +1 602 253-6081
  address: 18 W Monroe
  Great small Irish pub downtown. Same owner of Rosie McCaffrey's up on Camelback. Live Irish rock music.

• Bitter & Twisted Cocktail Parlour

  phone: +1 602-340-1924
  address: 1 West Jefferson St
  A cocktail parlor situated in a historic building in downtown Phoenix with an extensive drink menu that also serves food.

• Valley Bar

  phone: +1 602 368-3121
  address: 130 N Central Ave
  Basement bar and live music venue in downtown Phoenix that serves food and has a game room with darts, shuffleboard and a pool room. Some events have an admission charge and some events are free, check calendar on website for exact schedule and prices.

• Cobra Arcade Bar

  phone: +1 602 595-5873
  address: 801 North 2nd Street
  3300-square-foot Arcade Bar (21 and over) that has 40 vintage arcade games like Ms. Pac Man, Centipede, etc (25 cents a play) that serves beer, wine and cocktails. Happy hour M-F from 4 to 7PM and a live DJ plays Th-Sa nights.

• SideBar

  phone: +1 602 254-1646
  address: 1514 N 7th Ave
  Great cocktail lounge with a hip, modern feel. Bartenders are pretty knowledgeable, and the beer selection, while all bottled, is pretty good. No food is really served here, but if you're hungry there's a Pei Wei Asian Diner just downstairs that you can grab a bite at.

• George and Dragon

  phone: +1 602 241-0018
  address: 4240 N Central Ave
  British pub offering traditional British food and imported beer.

• Linger Longer Lounge

  phone: +1 602 264-4549
  address: 6522 N 16th St Ste 6
  Neighborhood lounge with game room with electronic darts and arcade ball machines. 16 drafts or cocktails on tap and happy hour from 4PM to 7PM on weekdays and all day Sunday with drink and food specials. A takeaway case with beer and wine to go is available.

• Rosie McCaffreys Irish Pub

  phone: +1 602 241-1916
  address: 906 East Camelback Rd
  Irish pub with daily specials, happy hour everyday (4 to 7PM) and live music Wednesday through Saturday.

• Fuego Bar & Grill

  phone: +1 623 478-7300
  address: 9118 W Van Buren St, Tolleson

• MercBar

  phone: +1 602 508-9449
  address: 2525 E Camelback Rd
  A high-end local place with a 'speakeasy' feel to it. It is hidden in the plaza with no sign, but once found it proves to be worth the trouble. Live jazz on Tuesdays.

• Postino Wine Cafe

  phone: +1 602 852-3939
  address: 3939 E Campbell Ave
  A wine cafe in the former Arcadia post office. In addition to wines, the cafe features panninis and salads. The cafe also offers $5 glasses of wine each day until 4PM.

• Half Moon Sports Grill

  phone: +1 602 977-2700
  address: 2121 East Highland Ave
  Upscale sports bar with lots of TVs to watch games. Happy hour M-F (3PM to 7PM).

• The Little Woody

  phone: +1 602 955-0339
  address: 4228 E Indian School Rd
  A hip place to enjoy libations and games.

• The Yard

  phone: +1 602 680-4040
  address: 5640 N 7th St
  Don't have room for your own party, bring it here! Spirits flow, games galore, and lots of friends to visit with.

• Honor Amongst Thieves

  phone: +1 602 313-1001
  address: 5538 N 7th St #100
  Craft cocktails and a large whiskey list are offered in this speakeasy style lounge.

• The Whining Pig

  phone: +1 602 633-2134
  address: 1612 Bethany Home Rd
  Eclectic neighborhood bar with very limited space and classic table games.

• The Grand

  phone: +1 602 795-8552
  address: 718 North Central Ave
  24 hour coffee shop, bistro and bar that serves food in downtown Phoenix. Live events on some nights such as open mic storytelling and live music.

Budget

• Hostelling International Phoenix

  phone: +1 602 254-9803
  address: 1026 N 9th St
  Office hours 8AM-10AM and 5PM-10PM; 24 hour access once checked in. Wifi available for $1. Closed during July.

• Hilton Garden Inn Phoenix/Avondale

  phone: +1 623 882-3351
  address: 11460 W Hilton Way, Avondale
  Includes such amenities as an on site grill, mp3 compatible clock radios, and an outdoor pool.

• Homewood Suites Phoenix-Avondale

  phone: +1 623 882-3315
  address: 11450 W Hilton Way, Avondale

• Homewood Suites Phoenix North/Happy Valley

  phone: +1 623 580-1800
  address: 2470 W Charlotte Dr
  All suites have a fully equipped kitchen. Hot breakfast buffet, Welcome Home reception M-Th evenings, free hi-speed internet access, business center, outdoor pool & whirlpool, fitness center.

• Hyatt Place Phoenix North

  phone: +1 602 997-8800
  address: 10838 N 25th Ave
  Just north of downtown Phoenix and a short distance from the new Glendale Arena and Cardinals Football Stadium.

• Premier Inns

  phone: +1 623 533-4660
  address: 8399 W Lynwood St, Tolleson
  This hotel features such amenities as a heated pool, continental breakfast, and high speed internet access.

• Sleep Inn Phoenix North

  phone: +1 602 504-1200
  address: 18235 N 27th Ave
  A North Phoenix hotel near Deer Valley Airport.

Mid-range

• Courtyard Phoenix West/Avondale

  phone: +1 623 271-7660
  address: 1650 N. 95th Ln
  Free hi-speed internet access, business center, meeting/banquet facilities, outdoor pool & whirlpool, fitness center. On-site cafe and cozy lounge area.

• Courtyard Phoenix Camelback

  phone: +1 602 955-5200
  address: 2101 E Camelback Rd
  Midrange hotel that is 1/2 mi from the Biltmore Fashion Park shopping area and Camelback Esplanade, and about a mile from the Arizona Biltmore resort.

• Courtyard Phoenix Airport

  phone: +1 480 966-4300
  address: 2621 S 47th St

• Courtyard Phoenix North

  phone: +1 602 944-7373
  address: 9631 N Black Canyon Hwy
  Renovated guest rooms and near Chase Field.

• Drury Inn & Suites Phoenix Happy Valley

  phone: +1 623 879-8800
  address: 2335 W Pinnacle Peak Rd

• Embassy Suites Biltmore Hotel

  phone: +1 602 955-3992
  address: 2630 E Camelback Rd

• Fairfield Inn & Suites Phoenix

  phone: +1 602 716-9900
  address: 2520 N Central Ave
  10 minutes or so from Sky Harbor Airport and right in the heart of midtown Phoenix north of the Heard Museum.

• Hampton Inn Phoenix-Airport North

  phone: +1 602 267-0606
  address: 601 North 44th St
  Offers free 24-hour airport shuttle, complimentary breakfast, high speed internet and spacious rooms.

• Hotel San Carlos

  phone: +1 602 253-4121
  address: 202 North Central Ave
  A boutique hotel that is a historic state landmark and a tourist site. Built in 1928 it is a member of the Historic Hotels of America and the National Trust of Historic Preservation. It has a heated rooftop pool with sundeck and a Vietnamese restaurant in the hotel. In the middle of downtown Phoenix near a Phoenix light rail station.

• The Legacy Golf Resort

  phone: +1 602 305-5500
  address: 6808 S 32nd St
  328 oversized condominiums, all with fully equipped kitchens or sleek kitchen-bars and washer/dryers.

• Residence Inn Phoenix Airport

  phone: +1 602 273-9220
  address: 801 North 44th St
  The hotel offers complimentary shuttle service to and from Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport. Extended stay accommodations include full size kitchens and free internet. Complimentary hot breakfast buffet served daily.

• Residence Inn Phoenix Desert View at Mayo Clinic

  phone: +1 480 563-1500
  address: 5665 E Mayo Blvd
  Extended stay hotel in North Phoenix next to the Phoenix Mayo Clinic.

• Sheraton Crescent Hotel

  phone: +1 602 943-8200
  address: 2620 W Dunlap Ave

• SpringHill Suites Phoenix Downtown

  phone: +1 602 307-9929
  address: 802 E Van Buren St
  All-suite hotel with microwave, fridge, free wired/wireless internet in every room. Pool, small gym, free breakfast, free airport shuttle.

Splurge

Arizona Biltmore

phone: +1 602 955-6600

address: 2400 E Missouri Ave

Not only a place to see, it has been the place to stay in the area for those not afraid to pay top dollar. The resort features all the expected amenities and services. The resort is between Piestewa Peak and Camelback Mountain, sitting along the smaller mountains between the two larger peaks.

Arizona Grand Resort

phone: +1 602 438-9000

address: 8000 S Arizona Grand Pkwy

A luxury resort in a desert oasis at the base of South Mountain Preserve in Arizona. Features a championship golf course, a luxury spa, vacation villas, dining at six restaurants and the Oasis Water Park.

The Clarendon Hotel

phone: +1 602 252-7363

address: 401 W Clarendon Ave

Part of the Midtown Museum District, independent boutique hotel with free international calls and an amazing pool area.

Hotel Palomar

phone: +1 602 253-6633

address: 2 East Jefferson St

Boutique hotel at Cityscape shopping and entertainment center with all 242 rooms having city and mountain views. 3rd floor outdoor pool and lounge which is open all year offers views of downtown Phoenix.

Hyatt Regency Phoenix

phone: +1 602 252-1234

address: 122 N Second St

Very centrally located, across the street from the Convention Center. Glass elevator to 13th floor popular with locals for views. Rotating restaurant on top floor.

Pointe Hilton Squaw Peak

phone: +1 602 997-2626

address: 7677 N 16th St

Major resort close to Piestewa Peak, this was the original Pointe resort built in the Valley. It used to be referred to only as the Pointe. With the addition of other Pointe Hilton resorts (at Tapatio Cliffs to the northwest and the former Pointe South Mountain, now the Arizona Grand Resort) the name was changed to Pointe Hilton Squaw Peak. Then the mountain's name was changed to Piestewa Peak. To locals, both the Pointe Hilton Squaw Peak and the Pointe Hilton Tapatio Cliffs are known for their waterparks, with multiple pools, cabanas and even a waterslide.

Renaissance Phoenix Downtown Hotel

phone: +1 602-333-0000

address: 50 E Adams St

Royal Palms Resort & Spa

phone: +1 602 840-3610

address: 5200 E Camelback Rd

The resort is at the base of Camelback Mountain, between the Biltmore area and downtown Scottsdale, 7 mi from Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport. This luxury resort features 119 rooms in a variety of configurations: casitas, luxury rooms, spa suites, and villas. The resort also features a luxury spa, dining options and meeting & event facilities.

The Camby

phone: +1 602 468-0700

address: 2401 E Camelback Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85016

Across the street from the upscale Biltmore Fashion Park. The former Ritz Carlton was remade into this sleek, contemporary luxury hotel with southwestern touches and modern technology. Upgraded rooms add mountain views. Room service is available 24/7.

Despite being a nice vacation destination, Phoenix is a major American city and as such does contain a fair amount of violent crime. Some parts of the city (and even a few parts of some of the suburbs) should be avoided at night. Downtown Phoenix is safe during the day, but does have a problem with the homeless/transients, some of whom approach well-dressed office workers and tourists asking for spare change. South Phoenix can be unsafe in some areas.
Maryvale, a commercial/residential district on the west side of the city of Phoenix (extending north into Glendale as well), should be avoided at almost all times unless there is a specific reason to go there.
Most of the suburban areas are safe during day and night; however, parts of Mesa and Glendale can be dangerous at night. There have been assaults on a few university students in some portions of Tempe, near the main campus of Arizona State University (ASU). The ASU campus is equipped with several emergency call boxes.
The Sunnyslope area (north central city of Phoenix) has some homeless and other crime issues but a police station at Peoria and 7th Ave which has dramatically reduced crime.
The town of Guadalupe (immediately west of Tempe and bounded by Interstate 10 on the west) is unsafe at night, but is an incredibly interesting Hispanic/Native American community to visit during the day. Be warned though that the speed limit suddenly falls from 40mph to 25mph as you enter the town.
In every portion of the Phoenix area, just use common sense and be aware of your surroundings.
Phoenix also has one of the highest car theft rates in the country, with a car stolen every 7 minutes. In addition, red light running is more common in Phoenix than any other city in the U.S. Use caution at every turn.
Speeding, tailgating and aggressive driving are common on the freeways.
Be aware of traffic and speed enforcement cameras at most major intersections. Always anticipate someone attempting to beat the amber light before it turns red to avoid being issued a very expensive traffic ticket (usually in the amount of $300 or more). If you see sudden braking, make sure you're going the speed limit. Sometimes, camera vans are set up on the side of the road to snatch speeders, especially in the Northeastern parts of the Valley.

Newspapers

• The Arizona Republic

  phone: +1 602 444-8000
  address: 200 E Van Buren St
  The city’s main newspaper that is read throughout the city and state.

• La Voz

  phone: +1 602 444-8000
  address: 200 E Van Buren St
  A popular Spanish language newspaper published by The Arizona Republic.

• The New Times

  phone: +1 602 271-0040
  address: 1201 E Jefferson
  Independent news and information about events, music, food, published under common ownership with New York's Village Voice.

• East Valley Tribune

  phone: +1 480-874-2863
  address: 1620 W. Fountainhead Pkwy # 219, Tempe
  +1 480-TRIBUNE. Freely distributed "voice of the East Valley" with annual Best of East Valley readers contests and an East Valley Guide with recommendations for food, drinks, entertainment, shopping and a calendar of local events.

• Asian American Times

  address: 668 N 44th St, Ste 343
  Excellent Chinese-American newspaper with articles printed in English and Chinese.

• Arizona Business Gazette

  phone: +1 602 444-7304
  address: 200 E Van Buren St
  Arizona business news, published weekly.

• Arizona Capitol Times

  phone: +1 602 253-7636
  address: 1835 W Adams St
  Reports on Arizona government, politics and legislative news.

• The EchoFree biweekly gay and lesbian magazine.

Consulates

• Canada (Consulate)

  address: 2415 E Camelback Rd

• Ecuador (Consulate General)

  phone: +1 602 535-5567
  address: 645 E Missouri Ste 132

• Guatemala (Consulate General)

  phone: +1 602 200-3660
  address: 4747 N 7th St, Ste 410

• Honduras (Consulate General)

  phone: +1 602 273-0547
  address: 4040 E McDowell Rd

• Mexico (Consulate General)

  phone: +1 602 242-7398
  address: 1990 W Camelback Rd, Ste 110

Honorary consulates are typically individual representatives of nations who represent the interest of certain business functions, and are not full-fledged national consulates. Their ability to assist you with individual legal or official matters may be limited.

• Austria (Honorary)

  phone: +1 480 502-8510
  address: Paradise Valley, 4521 E. Quartz Mountain Rd

• Belgium (Honorary)

  phone: +1 602 852-3442
  address: 2944 N 44th St Ste 250

• Cyprus (Honorary)

  phone: +1 602 264-9701
  address: 1277 E Missouri

• Denmark (Honorary)

  phone: +1 480 694-8882
  address: 14850 N Scottsdale Rd, Suite 155, Scottsdale

• El Salvador (Honorary)

  phone: +1 602 948-4899
  address: 4521 E Charles Dr

• Estonia (Honorary)

  phone: +1 480 229-9791
  address: Scottsdale, 7135 E. Camelback Rd., Suite 230

• France (Honorary)

  phone: +1 602 716-8222
  address: 2 N Central Ave, Ste 2200

• Germany (Honorary)

  phone: +1 602 265-4428
  address: 1007 E Missouri Ave

• Iceland (Honorary)

  phone: +1 602 956-8474
  address: 2999 N 44th St, Ste 640

• Italy (Honorary)

  phone: +1 480 304-4620
  address: 7509 N 12th St

• Netherlands (Honorary)

• Peru (Honorary)

  phone: +1 480 834-3907
  address: Mesa, 6242 E Arbor Ave., Ste. 118

• Spain (Honorary)

  phone: +1 602 955-2055
  address: 3134 E Camelback Rd

• Sri Lanka (Honorary)

  phone: +1 602 254-1899
  address: 329 W Cypress St

• Sweden (Honorary)

  phone: +1 602 364-7450
  address: 2 North Central Ave, Ste 2200

• United Kingdom (Honorary)

  phone: +1 602 515-1029
  address: 2425 E Camelback Rd, Ste 1020

Gay and lesbian travelers

The Melrose District on 7th Avenue, between Indian School Rd and Camelback Rd, is a popular location for LGBT+ bars, restaurants, and shops.
While many American cities will hold Pride Parades in June, Phoenix holds its Pride Parade in April, due to high summer temperatures.

• "Old Town" Scottsdale in the northeast Phoenix metropolitan area is the single most tourist friendly area in the valley.
• Downtown Tempe has a lively night life, being a college town
• Many visitors come to Peoria during the spring to see their favorite professional baseball team in the Cactus League for Spring Training.
• Mesa serves as the location for a Mormon (Latter Day Saints) Temple and is Arizona's third largest city after Tucson.
• Small towns Cave Creek and Carefree lie just north of the city.
• Hiking near Phoenix is popular due to central Arizona's climate and large tracts of public land. Several designated National Forest and BLM wilderness areas are within easy driving distance and offer treks ranging from day hikes to multi-day backpacking trips. South Mountain Park, within the city limits, is a popular destination to experience the Sonoran Desert on foot.
• Camelback Mountain - very popular hike in central Phoenix. Great views from top. Two routes:

• Echo Canyon (West entry - Macdonald/Tatum). Arrive early on weekends for trailhead parking (50 cars), or walk 1/2 mi to satellite parking. 1.25 mi steep hike.
• East entry (Invergorden/Jackrabbit). Park 1/2 mi from trailhead. Easier route 1.5 mi, skirts Phoenician (Keating resort), less developed.

Squaw Peak (Piestewa Peak) (Lincoln Dr/20th St) - Arrive early on weekends. Good parking close to trailhead. 1.25 mi hike (easier than Camelback Mtn). Great views (just 3 mi from Camelback Mtn). Park of Phoenix Preserve (48th St to 7th Ave), lots of good hiking and mountain biking. Dogs allowed on trail 300 from Squaw Peak parking.

If you would like to see areas outside of the Phoenix metropolitan area, you might want to visit Tucson, Las Vegas, or San Diego. For cooler weather, head up to I-17 to Flagstaff or Sedona.

A good option for a day trip, or longer, out of Phoenix is a drive north to Sedona. If you have three days or more, head out to Las Vegas via Monument Valley and the Grand Canyon.

Montezuma Castle National Monument (cliff dwelling), near Camp Verde, Arizona is on I-17 between Phoenix and Flagstaff