15 Must-See Phoenix Attractions You Can’t Miss (From a Local’s POV!)

Whether you’re planning a visit or you’re a local ready to explore your own backyard, Phoenix is full of surprises — seriously, it’s not just a desert! From iconic hikes to stunning museums, I’m sharing the top attractions in Phoenix that are worth every bit of hype (plus answering the top questions people ask about the Valley of the Sun!).

What is the number one attraction in Phoenix, Arizona? If I had to pick one? It has to be The Desert Botanical Garden. Locals love it, tourists rave about it, and it captures the spirit of Arizona with its gorgeous desert plant displays, trails, and seasonal events. It’s peaceful, photogenic, and totally iconic. Tickets start around $24.95 and trust me, it’s worth it!

Top 15 Phoenix Attractions (That Locals Actually Recommend):

1. Desert Botanical Garden

Desert Botanical Garden

A nature lover’s dream with cactus gardens, art installations, and outdoor concerts.

  • Address: 1201 N Galvin Pkwy, Phoenix, AZ 85008
  • Hours: Daily, 7 AM – 8 PM (seasonal hours may vary)
  • Best Time to Visit: October through April
  • Why It’s Great: With more than 50,000 desert plants, art exhibits, and events like Las Noches de las Luminarias, it’s a peaceful escape and a favorite for photo lovers. Founded in 1939, it showcases the beauty of the Sonoran Desert in full bloom.

2. Musical Instrument Museum (MIM)

Musical Instrument Museum
  • Address: 4725 E Mayo Blvd, Phoenix, AZ 85050
  • Hours: Daily, 9 AM – 5 PM
  • Best Time to Visit: Year-round (indoor attraction)
  • Why It’s Great: Home to over 15,000 instruments from around the globe. You can hear, see, and even play them. Opened in 2010, it’s one of the most unique museums in the world.

3. Phoenix Art Museum

Phoenix Art Museum
  • Address: 1625 N Central Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85004
  • Hours: Wed 10 AM–9 PM, Thurs–Sun 10 AM–5 PM
  • Best Time to Visit: Fall or spring (to pair with downtown art walks)
  • Why It’s Great: Offers rotating exhibitions from classic to contemporary, plus a beautiful sculpture garden. Founded in 1959.

4. Heard Museum

Heard Museum
  • Address: 2301 N Central Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85004
  • Hours: Tues–Sun, 10 AM – 4 PM
  • Best Time to Visit: November to March
  • Why It’s Great: Known internationally for its focus on Native American art and history. Since 1929, it’s been educating visitors with thought-provoking exhibitions.

5. South Mountain Park & Preserve

South Mountain Park
  • Address: 10919 S Central Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85042
  • Hours: Trails open daily 5 AM – 11 PM
  • Best Time to Visit: October to April
  • Why It’s Great: One of the largest municipal parks in the U.S. Hike, bike, or drive to Dobbins Lookout for incredible views.

6. Camelback Mountain

Camelback Mountain
  • Address: Echo Canyon Trailhead: 4925 E McDonald Dr, Phoenix, AZ 85018
  • Hours: Sunrise to sunset
  • Best Time to Visit: Fall through spring (avoid summer heat!)
  • Why It’s Great: Iconic Phoenix hike with panoramic views. Very challenging but very rewarding.

7. Roosevelt Row (RoRo) Arts District

Roosevelt Row
  • Address: Roosevelt St & 2nd Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85004
  • Hours: Shops/galleries vary, public art is 24/7
  • Best Time to Visit: First Fridays or springtime
  • Why It’s Great: Colorful murals, creative vibes, indie shops, and local events.

8. Phoenix Zoo

Phoenix Zoo
  • Address: 455 N Galvin Pkwy, Phoenix, AZ 85008
  • Hours: Daily, 9 AM – 5 PM
  • Best Time to Visit: Fall through spring
  • Why It’s Great: Nonprofit zoo with over 3,000 animals. Opened in 1962, it’s loved by families and animal lovers alike.

9. Children’s Museum of Phoenix

Children's Museum
  • Address: 215 N 7th St, Phoenix, AZ 85034
  • Hours: Tues–Sun, 9 AM – 4 PM
  • Best Time to Visit: Year-round
  • Why It’s Great: Super hands-on and perfect for ages 0–10. Open since 2008 in a beautifully restored schoolhouse.

10. Papago Park & Hole-in-the-Rock

Papago Park
  • Address: 625 N Galvin Pkwy, Phoenix, AZ 85008
  • Hours: 5 AM – 11 PM daily
  • Best Time to Visit: Sunrise or sunset, especially in fall or spring
  • Why It’s Great: Easy, quick hike with a rewarding view. Also home to the zoo and botanical garden.

11. Taliesin West (Scottsdale)

Taliesin West
  • Address: 12621 N Frank Lloyd Wright Blvd, Scottsdale, AZ 85259
  • Hours: Daily tours, times vary by season
  • Best Time to Visit: October to April
  • Why It’s Great: Frank Lloyd Wright’s winter home and desert lab. A UNESCO World Heritage Site and architectural gem.

12. Hot Air Balloon Rides

Hot Air Balloon Ride
  • Address: Various companies, launch from North Phoenix or Scottsdale
  • Hours: Early morning (sunrise flights)
  • Best Time to Visit: October to May
  • Why It’s Great: Peaceful, stunning, and unforgettable. Float above the Sonoran Desert in golden light.

13. Heritage Square & Arizona Science Center

Heritage Square
  • Address: 113 N 6th St, Phoenix, AZ 85004
  • Hours: Daily, 10 AM – 5 PM
  • Best Time to Visit: Year-round
  • Why It’s Great: Historic meets interactive fun. Victorian homes, local bites, and hands-on science exploration.

14. First Fridays Art Walk

First Fridays Phoenix
  • Address: Roosevelt Row, Downtown Phoenix
  • Hours: First Friday each month, 6 PM – 10 PM
  • Best Time to Visit: October to April
  • Why It’s Great: Free local art event with music, food trucks, and good vibes. A monthly community tradition.

15. Chase Field & Downtown Sports Scene

Chase Field
  • Address: 401 E Jefferson St, Phoenix, AZ 85004
  • Hours: Game times vary; tours available
  • Best Time to Visit: Baseball season (April–October)
  • Why It’s Great: Retractable roof, AC, and home of the Arizona Diamondbacks. Opened in 1998.

What is Phoenix best known for?

Desert landscapes, gorgeous sunsets, and saguaro cacti — for sure. But Phoenix is also a hub for arts, food (hello tacos and Sonoran dogs), and year-round sunshine. And yeah, the summers are hot, but we’re tough out here. 😉

Is 3 days in Phoenix enough? Three days is perfect for getting a taste of what Phoenix offers. Here’s a sample itinerary:

  • Day 1: Explore Desert Botanical Garden, Papago Park, and Roosevelt Row.
  • Day 2: Museum hop (MIM, Heard, or Phoenix Art Museum), then unwind with dinner downtown.
  • Day 3: Early morning hike (Camelback or Hole-in-the-Rock) and a relaxing afternoon spa or hot air balloon ride.

Want more than just a “taste”? Stay longer. Phoenix has layers.

Pro Tips from a Local:

  • Bring water. Always.
  • Visit early (especially hikes and outdoor spots) to beat the heat.
  • Support local by checking out farmer’s markets, mom-and-pop shops, and local eateries.
  • Book ahead for balloon rides, museum tickets, or popular attractions during peak season.

Ready to fall in love with Phoenix? Whether you’re an out-of-towner or just rediscovering your city, there’s magic to find in every corner of the Valley.

And hey, if you’re looking to capture your trip with unforgettable portraits (or just want to feel like a desert goddess), I’m your girl. 🧘‍♀️ Check out my studio in Downtown Mesa!