Greater Phoenix & Valley of the Sun Attractions
Last updated on .
The Greater Phoenix area, known as the Valley of the Sun, is one of the premier vacation destinations in the Southwest, offering a unique blend of desert beauty, outdoor adventure, and world-class attractions. Centered around Phoenix and including popular cities like Scottsdale, Tempe, and Mesa, this expansive metro region features everything from hiking iconic desert peaks and exploring scenic mountain ranges to enjoying lakes, golf courses, cultural attractions, and luxury resorts. With year-round sunshine and easy access to some of Arizona’s most famous destinations, Greater Phoenix serves as the perfect home base for unforgettable day trips and outdoor experiences.
View From Camelback Mountain. RobertBody.comGreater Phoenix is all grown-up now. It is one of the country's largest metropolitan areas with a population of over 4.3 million residents but still is a city that has not forgotten its rich history. Look around. You see evidence of Native American culture, Spanish influences, and spirit of the old west interwoven into all aspects of modern day life in Phoenix, Scottsdale and its sister suburban communities.
Why Visit Greater Phoenix & Valley of the Sun
Greater Phoenix offers one of the most diverse travel experiences in Arizona, combining outdoor adventure, scenic desert landscapes, and modern city attractions. Visitors can hike iconic desert mountains, explore nearby lakes and canyons, enjoy championship golf courses, and relax at world-class resorts and spas. The region is also a gateway to top Arizona destinations, making it easy to take day trips to places like Sedona, the Grand Canyon, and the Superstition Mountains. With its mix of recreation, culture, and year-round sunshine, the Valley of the Sun is ideal for both short getaways and extended vacations.
The Phoenix area still offers wide-open desert, stately saguaro cactus, peaceful scenery, dramatic sunsets, and a strong Western heritage. Beyond the mountain views, blue skies, and sunshine, visitors will also find urban sophistication, world-class dining, more than 500 hotels, 40 luxury resorts, more than 200 golf courses, and five major sports teams.
Best Things to See and Do In Greater Phoenix, & Valley of the Sun
Hiking & Outdoor Adventure
- Hike Camelback Mountain and Piestewa Peak for panoramic desert views
- Explore South Mountain Park, one of the largest urban parks in the United States
- Discover scenic desert trails, wildlife, and Sonoran Desert landscapes
Lakes, Boating & Water Recreation
- Visit nearby lakes like Saguaro Lake, Canyon Lake, and Lake Pleasant
- Enjoy boating, kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing
- Take scenic cruises or relax along desert shorelines
Scenic Drives & Day Trips
- Drive the Apache Trail through desert canyons and mountain landscapes
- Take day trips to Sedona, Prescott, or the Grand Canyon
- Explore the Superstition Mountains and surrounding wilderness areas
Attractions, Culture & Entertainment
- Visit museums, art galleries, and historic sites throughout the Valley
- Experience Native American culture and Old West heritage
- Enjoy professional sports, concerts, festivals, and nightlife
Resorts, Golf & Relaxation
- Stay at luxury resorts and spas in Phoenix and Scottsdale
- Play on more than 200 golf courses across the Valley
- Enjoy fine dining, shopping, and desert sunsets
With its desert beauty, outdoor adventure, Native American tradition, spirit of the west, and melting pot of diverse culture, the entire Phoenix area is an ideal vacation destination for the adventurous, the romantic, and families of all ages. Golf, shop, trail ride, hike, bike, dine, indulge, or just bask in the sunshine. Phoenix is a perfect home base for day trips to all the attractions Arizona has to offer.
Best Times to Visit Greater Phoenix Area
Spring (March – May)
- Ideal weather with warm days and cool evenings
- Desert wildflowers and cactus blooms peak across the region
- Best time for hiking, sightseeing, and outdoor activities
Summer (June – August)
- Very hot temperatures, often exceeding 100°F
- Best for early morning or evening outdoor activities
- Great time for resort deals, pools, and indoor attractions
Fall (September – November)
- Cooling temperatures make outdoor activities comfortable again
- Fewer crowds compared to peak winter season
- Excellent time for hiking, golf, and scenic drives
Winter (December – February)
- Peak visitor season with mild, sunny weather
- Perfect for golf, hiking, and outdoor events
- Popular destination for visitors escaping colder climates
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
- One of the fastest-growing cities in the Valley
- Close to outdoor attractions like Usery Mountain Regional Park and nearby lakes
- Known for cultural attractions, golf, and family-friendly activities
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
A Few Most Popular Things To Do
Boating, Water Skiing and Fishing. If you love water recreation, you'll find lots of big lakes in the Phoenix and Scottsdale area. Most offer boat rentals, general stores, tackle shops, restaurants and campgrounds. Some, like Canyon Lake and Saguaro Lake offer boat cruises.
Natural Treasures and Urban Hiking Trails. Drive to the eastern-most part of the valley to Apache Junction, Arizona and experience the iconic Superstition Mountains that hold the secrets of the Lost Dutchman Gold Mine. There are several urban hiking trails including the most popular hike trails at Camelback Mountain and Piestewa Peak.
Historic and Scenic Drives. If you love scenic drives without fear of heights, try the Apache Trail which is an old west stagecoach route and Apache Indian trading path. It begins in Apache Junction with paved road to Canyon Lake. At Tortilla Flats, the road turns to dirt with narrow turns along canyon walls to Apache Lake. The best time is spring when the weather is perfect and the trail is colorful with wildflowers and cactus blooms.
Day Trips From Phoenix. Scottsdale and Phoenix are the ideal home bases to take day trips and scenic drives to such popular Arizona attractions such as Sedona, Arizona and the Grand Canyon South Rim.
Greater Phoenix FAQ
What is the Valley of the Sun?
The Valley of the Sun refers to the Greater Phoenix metropolitan area, which includes Phoenix, Scottsdale, Mesa, Tempe, and surrounding cities in central Arizona.
What are the top things to do in Phoenix?
Top activities include hiking Camelback Mountain, exploring desert parks, visiting nearby lakes, taking scenic drives like the Apache Trail, and enjoying day trips to Sedona or the Grand Canyon.
Is Phoenix a good vacation destination?
Yes. Phoenix is a popular vacation destination known for its sunny weather, outdoor recreation, luxury resorts, golf courses, and access to many of Arizona’s top attractions.
When is the best time to visit Phoenix?
Spring and fall offer the best weather for outdoor activities. Winter is also very popular due to mild temperatures, while summer is best for budget travel and resort stays.
Are there lakes near Phoenix?
Yes. Popular lakes near Phoenix include Lake Pleasant, Saguaro Lake, Canyon Lake, and Roosevelt Lake, all offering boating, fishing, and recreation.
How far is Phoenix from the Grand Canyon?
The Grand Canyon South Rim is about 230 miles from Phoenix, roughly a 3.5 to 4-hour drive.
Related Phoenix Interest
Phoenix Arizona
Greater Phoenix Map
Rawhide Western Town
Roosevelt Lake Map & Directions
South Mountain Park
Phoenix To South Rim
Greater Phoenix Things To Do
Hiking Papago Park
Phoenix Dude Ranches
Phoenix Events & Festivals
Desert Botanical Garden
Piestewa Peak Hiking
Phoenix Weather Info
Phoenix Boat Tours
Mystery Castle
Phoenix Horseback Riding
Camelback Mountain
Phoenix Area Museums
Phoenix Zoo
Phoenix Arts & Theatre
Japanese Friendship Garden
Phoenix Fishing Guides
Phoenix Area Attractions
Metro Phoenix
