Greater Phoenix & Valley of the Sun Attractions
Updated by AZ Leisure Staff Writers on
Discover the best things to do in Phoenix and throughout the Valley of the Sun, where Sonoran Desert scenery meets outdoor adventure, cultural attractions, resorts, golf, dining and year-round recreation. Greater Phoenix includes Phoenix, Scottsdale, Tempe, Mesa and surrounding communities, with opportunities to hike desert mountains, explore nearby lakes, enjoy scenic drives and visit some of Arizona's most popular attractions. The area also makes an excellent base for day trips to the Superstition Mountains, Sedona, Prescott and the Grand Canyon.
- Why Visit Greater Phoenix
- Best Things To Do
- Best Time To Visit
- Top Greater Phoenix Cities
- Best Day Trips From Phoenix
- Phoenix Visitor Tips
- Greater Phoenix FAQ
View From Camelback Mountain. RobertBody.comWhy Visit Greater Phoenix & Valley of the Sun
Greater Phoenix combines dramatic Sonoran Desert scenery with the attractions and amenities of one of the Southwest's major metropolitan areas. Visitors can hike desert mountains, explore regional parks, enjoy boating and fishing at nearby lakes, play golf, visit museums and cultural attractions, or relax at Phoenix and Scottsdale resorts. Mild winter weather makes the Valley especially popular for outdoor recreation, while its central location provides convenient access to many of Arizona's best-known destinations.
The region also retains a distinctive Southwestern character. Saguaro-covered hillsides, colorful sunsets, Native American heritage and Western history contrast with modern restaurants, shopping districts, professional sports, entertainment venues and resort communities.
Best Things To Do In Greater Phoenix
Hiking & Outdoor Adventure
- Hike Camelback Mountain or Piestewa Peak for panoramic views across the Valley
- Explore South Mountain Park and Preserve for desert hiking, scenic overlooks and mountain biking
- Discover Sonoran Desert trails, wildlife and cactus-covered landscapes throughout the Phoenix area
Lakes, Boating & Water Recreation
- Visit Lake Pleasant, Saguaro Lake, Canyon Lake and other lakes near Phoenix
- Enjoy boating, kayaking, paddleboarding, water sports and fishing
- Take a scenic boat cruise or spend a relaxing day along a desert shoreline
Scenic Drives & Desert Attractions
- Explore the historic Apache Trail and the scenery east of Phoenix
- Visit the Superstition Mountains and attractions around Apache Junction
- Take scenic drives through desert foothills, mountain passes and regional parks
Attractions, Culture & Entertainment
- Visit museums, gardens, historic sites and art districts throughout Greater Phoenix
- Learn about Native American cultures and Arizona's Southwestern heritage
- Enjoy professional sports, concerts, festivals, shopping, dining and nightlife
Resorts, Golf & Relaxation
- Stay at desert resorts and spas in Phoenix, Scottsdale and neighboring communities
- Play golf surrounded by mountain and Sonoran Desert scenery
- Enjoy resort pools, restaurants, shopping districts and colorful Arizona sunsets
Best Time To Visit Greater Phoenix
Spring (March - May)
- Warm days and generally comfortable conditions for outdoor recreation
- Desert wildflowers and cactus blooms may add seasonal color to the landscape
- Excellent season for hiking, sightseeing, golf and scenic drives
Summer (June - August)
- Expect very hot daytime temperatures throughout the Phoenix area
- Plan outdoor recreation for early morning and avoid strenuous midday activity
- Resort pools, indoor attractions and evening activities become especially appealing
Fall (September - November)
- Temperatures gradually become more comfortable as autumn progresses
- Outdoor recreation becomes increasingly enjoyable after the summer heat
- Good season for hiking, golf, patio dining and scenic drives
Winter (December - February)
- Mild daytime weather attracts visitors escaping colder parts of the country
- Excellent season for hiking, golf, sightseeing and outdoor attractions
- Popular travel period, particularly around resorts and major events
Top Cities In The Greater Phoenix Area
- The largest city in Arizona and the heart of the Valley of the Sun
- Home to major attractions, museums, sports venues, and desert parks
- Popular for hiking, dining, nightlife, and cultural experiences
- Known for luxury resorts, spas, and world-class golf courses
- Features Old Town Scottsdale with shopping, galleries, and nightlife
- Great destination for upscale dining and desert relaxation
- Vibrant college town home to Arizona State University
- Offers nightlife, events, and outdoor recreation at Tempe Town Lake
- Popular for kayaking, biking, and entertainment
- A major East Valley city with attractions, dining, recreation and cultural venues
- Close to outdoor destinations including Usery Mountain Regional Park and several desert lakes
- Popular for golf, family attractions and easy access to the Superstition Mountains
Chandler & Gilbert
- Modern suburban cities with shopping, dining, and entertainment
- Known for family-friendly neighborhoods and growing downtown areas
- Great for food, breweries, and relaxed local experiences
Glendale & Peoria
- Located in the West Valley with major sports and entertainment venues
- Home to State Farm Stadium and spring training baseball facilities
- Close to Lake Pleasant for boating, fishing, and outdoor recreation
Best Day Trips From Phoenix
Greater Phoenix is an excellent starting point for exploring central and northern Arizona. Depending on how much driving you want to include in your day, destinations range from nearby desert mountains and lakes to red-rock country and the Grand Canyon.
Head east toward Apache Junction to explore rugged desert scenery, hiking trails, historic sites and legends surrounding the Lost Dutchman Mine. The Superstitions are among the easiest major outdoor day trips from Phoenix.
Sedona combines spectacular red-rock scenery with hiking, sightseeing, galleries, restaurants and scenic drives. Continue north through Oak Creek Canyon for one of Arizona's most memorable mountain drives.
Prescott offers a cooler mountain setting, historic Whiskey Row, courthouse plaza, nearby lakes and pine-country scenery, making it a popular escape from the Phoenix desert.
The South Rim can be visited on a long day trip from Phoenix, although an overnight stay allows considerably more time for overlooks, trails and sunset or sunrise views.
Tips For Visiting Greater Phoenix
- Carry plenty of drinking water whenever hiking or spending extended time outdoors in the desert
- During hot weather, plan hikes and strenuous outdoor activities for early morning
- Use sun protection throughout the year, including sunscreen, sunglasses and appropriate clothing
- Allow extra driving time when traveling across the Valley because Greater Phoenix covers a large geographic area
- Check current trail, road, weather and park conditions before heading into remote desert or mountain areas
- For summer visits, balance outdoor sightseeing with pools, museums, shopping, dining and other indoor attractions
Greater Phoenix FAQ
What is the Valley of the Sun?
The Valley of the Sun is a common name for the Greater Phoenix metropolitan area in central Arizona. It includes Phoenix, Scottsdale, Tempe, Mesa and many surrounding communities.
What are the best things to do in Phoenix?
Popular things to do include hiking Camelback Mountain and Piestewa Peak, exploring desert parks, visiting museums and gardens, enjoying nearby lakes, playing golf and taking scenic drives through the Sonoran Desert.
Is Phoenix a good vacation destination?
Yes. Greater Phoenix offers a combination of desert scenery, outdoor recreation, resorts, golf, dining, cultural attractions, sports and entertainment. It is also conveniently located for exploring many other Arizona destinations.
When is the best time to visit Phoenix?
Late fall through spring generally provides the most comfortable weather for hiking, golf and outdoor sightseeing. Summer brings extreme heat, making pools, resorts, indoor attractions and early-morning activities more practical.
What lakes are near Phoenix?
Popular recreation lakes within day-trip distance of Greater Phoenix include Lake Pleasant, Saguaro Lake, Canyon Lake, Bartlett Lake and Roosevelt Lake. Activities vary by lake but can include boating, fishing, kayaking, camping and scenic cruising.
Can you visit the Grand Canyon from Phoenix?
Yes. The Grand Canyon South Rim can be reached from Phoenix by car and is possible as a long day trip. Travelers who want more time for overlooks, hiking, sunrise or sunset should consider spending a night near the South Rim.
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