Adding a business to Yelp is always free. 11. Explore festivities ideal for maximizing the sweater weather season. Its about protecting what sustains us. Epic views are guaranteed at the top of the mountain at Dobbins Lookout (2,330 feet). Not only will you feel the mystery and grandeur of this state park, but youll get lovely views of the Superstition Mountains rock formations. Recent visitors (especially those with kids in tow) had fun at the zoo, and praised the clean grounds and abundant activities. The park is located to the west of Phoenix and offers approximately 25 miles of excellent shared-use trails, including the popular and short Waterfall Trail and more strenuous Ford Canyon/Mesquite Canyon Trail Loop. Many more people at hiking trails & outdoor attractions lately. Fans of delicate Queen Anne architecture will enjoy the restored Rosson House Museum, which features period decor, while others will delight in the tasty restaurants and attractive views in the area. Located in this national forests Superstition Wilderness area, Canyon Lake is a 950-acre destination that is one of the top tourist destinations in Phoenix. T. Cook's offers two patios and a . When winter strikes or everyday life becomes too overwhelming, many weary travelers head to the Valley of the Sun for hot rock massages and salt scrubs. You can also learn about the zoo's nature conservation efforts, tour Stingray Bay, or join one of the fun animal encounters. If you want to eat and do some work, you can opt to go to Riverview Park in Mesa, as you can reel and catch trout and other fish to fry up. Aside from the mouth-watering burgers and steaks, you can also enjoy live music or gaze in the night sky as you sit near the campfire: an experience comparable to real camping. Here are our top picks for things to do and see outside in metro Phoenix. 5:00AM. An Imax theater also offers family-friendly, educational entertainment. By JWNewYorkCity. Are you looking for fun outdoor things to do around Phoenix? You can try the Blevins Trail in Usery Mountain Regional Park with a 3-mile loop distance if you are a beginner. These trips are designed for you to try climbing and try a lot of it. 10 Best Outdoor Activities in Phoenix: Exploring the City's Great Outdoors BY Patricia Escarcega Phoenix, Scottsdale, and Tucson Local Expert When you buy through a link on our site,. Recent visitors raved about the views from the hikes summit. The Valley of the Sun is actually a great place to get outside. Customize your trip by choosing how you would like your time spent. As one of the quintessential hikes in Phoenix, this short trail packs a punch in terms of rock scrambles, steep terrain, and gorgeous views for miles. There is a waterfall on the north side of the amphitheater, which is directly off of the 2.5-acre bird shaped lake. It's worth going at least once." more. Things to Do in Phoenix This Winter - Thrillist There are options for all activity levels, from the west side trails to the east side trails to the popular Hole-in-the-Rock trail. Luxury meets sustainability at these unique ecolodges. The municipal golf courses offer modest fees and are busy all year long. If you head out on this hike in the early morning, you may come across some local wildlife, like javelina, foxes, or quails. The museum also showcases live music, hosting approximately 200 concerts every year in its theater. Bet you didnt expect to find a waterfall trail in the middle of the desert, did you? For a fun challenge rewarded with stunning views, look no further than the Holbert Trail. With lots of nature parks, restaurants, resorts with waterparks and even lakes around Phoenix, Arizona, you wont run out of things to do to enjoy your sunny escape. Arizona offers a seemingly endless array of outdoor experiences. Its about nourishment and learning. Check here for the latest updates on park closures. Phoenix is perfect for adventurers and thrill-seekers. While youre likely to see hummingbirds flitting around orange tree blossoms and roadrunners streaking across the desert landscape in many spots across the Phoenix metropolitan area, one of my favorite places to bird-watch is the Riparian Preserve at Water Ranch in the eastern Phoenix suburb of Gilbert. This attraction appealed to everyone from solo adult travelers to families visiting town. Top 10 Best Outdoor Activities Near Phoenix, Arizona. 10. If youre visiting Phoenix in the spring, this is also one of my favorite places to view Arizona wildflowers in bloom. This area is a great alternative to Flagstaff for outdoor fun closer to Phoenix. The nearest larger town is Anthem, at is around 25 miles to the south. Top 10 Best Outdoor Furniture Stores Near You in Phoenix, Arizona Sort:Recommended Price Offering a Deal Accepts Credit Cards Offers Military Discount Dogs Allowed 1. And since many spas incorporate botanicals sourced from the Sonoran Desert (like prickly pear and cactus flower) into their treatments, a visit to the spa can be as educational as it is restorative. From her nomadic upbringing in a military family to her personal and professional travels as an adult, Sage has visited all 50 states, lived abroad twice, and explored nearly 30 other countries. Recent visitors called this site a "hidden gem" and praised the well-maintained grounds, as well as the small museum. Trail suggestions: North Mountain Park 's summit hike from the North Mountain Visitor Center, Sidewinder/Apache Wash Loop in the Phoenix Sonoran Preserve, Holbert Trail to Dobbins Lookout at South Mountain. Phoenix has an abundance of things to do at regional parks that make for great activities and sightseeing. Phoenix's independent source of Unlike the lush gardens in other climates, the greenery at the 55-acre Desert Botanical Garden consists of a variety of cacti and desert trees, and bursts of color are provided by their blooms along with other native plants. We promise not to annoy you, but if you wish, you may unsubscribe at any time. Those without a taste for modern art may not enjoy their visit as much; despite its diverse collections, expect to see a lot of more recent artworks. Renowned American architect Frank Lloyd Wright loved the Sonoran Desert, and he used these nearly 500 acres at the base of the McDowell Mountains as his winter home and school. Summit an iconic Phoenix area peak One of the best ways to get outdoors in the Phoenix area is taking a hike, and there are few hikes more gratifying or exciting than summiting a mountain. 2023Outdoor Project. Have time. Tours visit all areas of the home, including several bedrooms, a nursery, a bathroom and a doctor's office (the home's original owner was a doctor who occasionally saw patients at the house). "sure and highly recommend this great outdoor activity, especially early in the morning like we did." more. With a variety of terrain, youll cross creeks, wander through forests, and scramble up a rocky pass to the top of the summit. For views of the Sonoran Deserts famous rock formations, there are few better places to go hiking in Phoenix than at Papago Park. Reviewers recommend setting aside at least an hour to enjoy the attraction, though some reported spending more than two hours here. For a relatively easy hike with amazing views (especially at sunset) just minutes from the Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, I highly recommend the Hole in the Rock Trail at Papago Park. Urban Outdoors is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. These incredible trips are sure to inspire romance and relaxation. Book direct at the Comfort Inn West Phoenix At 27th Ave And I-10 hotel in Phoenix, AZ near Bearizona Wildlife Park and GCU. All rights reserved. Courtesy of tonda/Getty Images/iStockphoto. You'll find the resort nestled in Carefree along the edge of Tonto National Forest. You can access a full concert schedule and buy tickets on the museum'swebsite. If you dont want to get far away from Phoenix, you can also have a one to two-hour guided mountain bike tour in the Sonoran Desert. Top 10 Best Outdoor Yoga in Phoenix, AZ - June 2023 - Yelp When it's raining in Phoenix, head inside to make the most of the city's top museums, such as the Phoenix Art Museum, the Heard Museum or the Musical Instrument Museum. Top 10 Best Outdoor Gear Near You in Phoenix, Arizona The Lets Roam app is my favorite, and their hunts in Arizonas capital city range from less than a mile to nearly 3 miles long. Whether you would like to focus on certain skills, or are simply in need of some pointers, we can customize your trip to your liking. Just note that public hours are currently closed for August and will return in September. Recent visitors enjoyed this trip back in time, praising the historic preservation of Heritage Square and the many eateries. Theres nothing more recharging than stepping out of the house to breathe in some fresh air and take in the nature that surrounds you. I cant visit without feeding the giraffe at the Giraffe Encounter! Phoenix Outdoor Activities: Explore the Southwest - REI Co-op The featured artists represent an eclectic variety of genres. The Double Butte Loop is an easy, accessible, and well-maintained trail that brings you right up to these beautiful natural landmarks. It's open for tours between October and May. You can navigate Scottsdales permanent public artwork with ease with this online resource. Yet the Desert Botanical Garden is home to thousands of species of cacti, trees and flowers from all around the world. Short hikes include the 2.4-mile Baseline Trail and all day hikes include the Pedersen Trail which encompasses 8.7 miles. If your feet need a break, the park's trails are also open to horseback riding and mountain biking. You can have a champagne toast and catered food after mounting on the hot-air balloon and even receive a commemorative flight certificate after. Reviewers also offered kudos for the on-site restaurant and gift shop, and say this is a great place to beat the heat on hot summer days. Come with U.S. News on a tour of the Four Seasons Hotel One Dalton Street, Boston. Note that theres a fee to enter Tonto National Forest, but for a manageable, beautiful hike thats different than the others on this list, its absolutely worth the cost! As one of the highest hikes in Phoenix, the view at Echo Canyon Trail is truly breathtakingfiguratively and literally with its steep path and hardcore hiking experience. One of our favorite things to do is to go hiking in Phoenix, on one of the many stunning trails that call the city home. Backyard Oasis Superstore 3 Outdoor Furniture Stores Patio Coverings Masonry/Concrete Phoenix Located southwest of Phoenix, Estrella Mountain Regional Park boasts 20,000 acres of pristine desert, mountains and even a large wetland. "THE BEST YOGA STUDIO IN PHOENIX, HANDS DOWN! Constructed in 1928 and known as "the granddaddy" of Phoenix country clubs, the Arizona Biltmore is home to two 18-hole PGA Championship courses, as well as a driving range, a putting green, a pro shop and a full-service restaurant. Or take refuge in theHummingbird Sanctuary,featuring five 16-foot-tall steel flowers with vines cascading down the sides. And for more great hikes in the Grand Canyon State, see this article. [], 15+ AMAZING PHOENIX HIKING TRAILS WITH AWESOME VIEWS, [] MORE OUTDOORS: Best Outdoor Things to do Around Phoenix, Arizona [], Copyright 2023 2TravelDads, St Augustine FL. 109. While most of the trail is accessible to beginners, there are parts toward the end that are quite steep, so proceed with caution! Definitely not a hike for the faint of heart! Along the trail, youll pass by massive rock overhangs known as the wind cave, which feature stunning views of the Phoenix area and the surrounding rocky terrain. Walk among what's left of houses, storage facilities, play areas and cemeteries on a short, accessible trail. This National Historic Landmark and UNESCO World Heritage Site is still used as an educational space for budding artists and architects. What's more, the metro area ends at the bounds of expansive National Forest lands and wilderness areas, where endless exploration awaits. For another short, manageable hike that has some challenging spots, check out the Wind Cave Trail. Papago Park features several hikes perhaps the most distinctive is Hole in the Rock. You could also spend a day on one of Phoenix's scenic golf courses (such as the Arizona Biltmore Golf Club) or indulging in a treatment or two at the area's best spas, such as the 33,000-square-foot facility at the Boulders Resort & Spa Scottsdale, Curio Collection by Hilton. In the college town of Tempe, check out the postcard-like Get Together Tempe greeting painted on the west wall of the Social Hall, a bar and restaurant at the corner of South McClintock and East University. Prices and availability may vary. The park also offers 51 miles of trails for hiking and biking. If you are looking for a longer more difficult hike, try the 5.1-mile San Tan Trail. Get the latest updates in news, food, music and culture, and receive special offers direct to your inbox. Shh, dont tell anyone, but the Peralta Canyon Trail to Fremont Saddle is probably our favorite of all 17 hikes near Phoenix that weve listed here! Pinnacle Peak Park features a moderate out-and-back trail with a total distance of 3.5 miles through 150-acres of pristine Sonoran Desert environment. You can also watch for bobcats, prairie dogs, and other animals as you explore the wilderness. The Massacre Falls Trail is a moderate hike through the Superstition Mountains that culminates in a cliffside waterfall. Many recommended timing your visit to appreciate a beautiful Arizona sunset. In our opinion, Treasure Loop Trail is one of the most scenic hikes in Phoenix on our list. Other topics covered across the center's four levels of exhibits include sound, gravity and psychology, among others. Since the day-use area offers a wide range of activities, it is easily crammed by tourists, so you have to reserve a spot beforehand. Why I Love Living On Californias Humboldt County Coast, How You Can Vacation Internationally For Half The Price This Summer, 9 Fantastic Experiences In Sunny Phoenix, Arizona, 9 Fantastic Day Trips From Phoenix Perfect For Fall, 10 Phoenix Snowbird Rentals You Need To Book Now For This Winter, The One Phoenix Train Trip Thats Perfect For Art Lovers, For details on Quillt's privacy and cookie policies, please visit our. Videos featuring 2TravelDads webisodes, TV, promos and more! Luckily, there are several peaks in the Phoenix area that you can hike up to in just a couple of hours. As you drive Interstates 10 and 17, youll see desert motifs in the rocky slopes near the shoulder and petroglyph-inspired animals carved into the walls that line the freeway and overpasses. Pro tip: Go as early as possible to avoid direct sunlight and crowds this trail has very little shade in the mid-day hours! Fun and free things to do in Phoenix are: For more free things to do in Phoenix, click here. The Lash Professional and Ki To Beauty at this location. Sports Events Submit an Event Phoenix Events Visiting Phoenix this weekend? Chase Field is located one block south of the Arizona Science Center in the downtown area. 5. However, the prices may stress you out: Most individual treatments cost more than $200. Photo by Ally Noel. Many families said they spent several hours here thanks to the variety of exhibits. "Hole-in-the-Rock is an excellent outdoor activity, if you're visiting the Phoenix area." more. Check out our guide to the best places to Kayak in Arizona! Goldfield The Goldfield Ghost Town is a really fun place for kids to explore while imagining what life used to be like here. But since not too many visitors plan on roaming the hills at night, there are a few cool things to do in Phoenix that get you close to or at least teach you about the wildlife of Arizona. With its unique Sonoran Desert scenery, abundance of attractions, great places to eat, and 300 days of sunshine per year, Phoenix is full of things to do outdoors all year long. Offered eight times a year, the walk includes live music, wine tastings, and other special activities designed to showcase the areas artists and galleries. The zoo houses a variety of animals, including cheetahs, monkeys, Asian elephants,three-toed box turtles and Mexican gray wolves. 4. This is a review for outdoor activities in Phoenix, AZ: "Trip of a lifetime made even better with the awesome BG Wild guides!!! AZ, Mesa | Sporting Goods & Outdoor Stores | Bass Pro Shops Tours are offered at 9:30 a.m., 11 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. Monday through Saturday. 25 Best Day Trips from Phoenix - VacationIdea.com So this article on the best things to do outdoors in Phoenix includes recommendations beyond the Phoenix city limits and across the metro area. So take a break from your usual binge-watching sessions or at-home relaxation and experience the great outdoors around the incredible Phoenix urban area. Several noted that the hike is busy with visitors, but well-appointed. Here are 15 hikes not to miss near Phoenix. He is a full-time Arizona resident and lover of all things outdoors. Boating at Lake Pleasant, AZ - North of Phoenix, Water Activities in Tonto National Forest - Northeast of Phoenix, Cooling Off in the Superstition Wilderness - East of Phoenix, most beautiful spots of SUP in the Sonoran Deser. There are few hikes near Phoenix that have vast waterfront views, and Butcher Jones Trail in Tonto National Forest is one of them! Recent travelers were particularly impressed with this attraction, calling it an "architectural gem" in the middle of the desert and praised both its charm and tour guides. 15 Must-Do Hikes Near Phoenix, AZ | Outdoor Project You can reach this just within a 45-minute drive from downtown Phoenix. There are public restrooms, picnic areas and a nearby parking lot. Some reviewers said it was the best children's museum they'd ever been to. Read on for the best things to do in Phoenix. These Are the Most Popular National Parks in the U.S. What's more, it's considered one of the top things to do in Arizona. The garden's brightly colored plants sharply contrast the Sonoran Desert's cinnamon-red buttes, and numerous hiking trails like the Plants and People of the Sonoran Desert and the Harriet K. Maxwell Desert Wildflower Loop trails allow you to experience the region's natural wonders the way early settlers once did. Outside of the city, there are a variety of attractions in the Greater Phoenix area. The heat cannot be ignored, of course, but there are ways to beat it. Best Outdoor Things to do Around Phoenix, Arizona - 2TravelDads Those who visited in the hot summer months warned that some of the animals may not be as active/visible due to the heat. Lounging by your resort pool is a popular way to beat the heat in Phoenix. The ragged path may leave you breathless, but the view once you reach the summit is worth it. The food is also top-notch with their fire-roasted pizzas and pasta that will surely leave you craving for more. This area is a great alternative to Flagstaff for outdoor fun closer to Phoenix. Reach out below. If you'd like a little guidance navigating the museum's collection, consider signing up for one of its docent-led public tours, which are offered every day that the museum is open. You can also view artifacts found during the site's excavation at the small on-site museum. 10. Here are 50 must-do items to add to your bucket list. 10 Best Outdoor Activities in Phoenix: Exploring the City's Great Outdoors. 12:00 AM UTC. As another short, sweet, and strenuous trail, the peak offers steep inclines, some scrambling, and a beautiful rocky outcropping at the top overlooking the city and its surroundings. 23 Best Outdoor Activities and Attractions in Metro Phoenix Its about more than standing on the mountain top. Make a one-time donation today for as little as $1. Boasting more than 300 play experiences across three floors, the Children's Museum of Phoenix is a hit with kids. Scottsdale Quarter. Riparian Preserve consists of seven water recharge basins, which is the reason why it attracts over 300 species of birds. Tarbell's The park features a splash playground for kids, hiking and biking paths, volleyball courts, and water recreation activities on Tempe Town Lake including kayak, stand-up paddle board, and boat rentals. Indeed, there is more to Phoenix than you might have heard. Arizona may be hot and dry in many areas, but its full of wildlife. The lookout is popular with tourists as it provides an unobstructed panoramic view of the valley. Pro Tip: Whether you cheer for the Grapefruit League or the Cactus League, read this before planning an MLB Spring Training trip. The Top Outdoor Activities Around Phoenix How to Plan Your Trip The Cathedral Rocks and their reflection refract in Oak Creek near Sedona, Arizona. Lovers of the great outdoors typically thrive in Arizonas diverse microclimates. To avoid the crowds, plan to arrive in the morning according to past visitors, the garden starts to get busy around 11 a.m. As one of the highest peaks in Phoenix, Camelback Mountain is among the most scenic hiking spots in the city. For picnic tables with water views, head to Riverview Park in Mesa. Best Outdoor Activities in Phoenix 1. Sign up so youre the first to know when we come to your city: Kay Rodriguez is the founder & CEO of Urban Outdoors. Standing at 2,330 feet, the lookout provides panoramic valley views. An ideal way to get the lay of the land while enjoying the outdoors is to explore via an interactive scavenger hunt. The park also features rock climbing routes, picnic tables, an informative trailhead office and interpretive displays along the trails. Others appreciated the museum's efforts to cater to infants and toddlers with designated spaces. In the heart of Scottsdale lies the 30-acre McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park. People also searched for these in Phoenix: What are people saying about outdoor activities in Phoenix, AZ? A historical central park for Tempe since the 1920s, this 25-acre park plays host to 5K and 10K runs, music festivals and community festivals throughout the year. Although Phoenix is called the Valley of the Sun, the city is not fully encircled by mountains like Salt Lake City or Albuquerque. Become a member to support the independent voice of Phoenix We loved hot air ballooning in New Mexico! 1,082. 2022 13. If you have questions about what else to do around Phoenix, or have your own recommendations, leave a comment or send us a note! The city of Phoenix and Maricopa County boast several mountain parks, one of whichSouth Mountainis the largest municipal park anywhere in the United States. From the snacks and meals to the trek out tips to guiding us to waterfalls I never would've found on my own I highly recommend using BG Wild to explore this amazing location.". As one of the most beloved hikes in Phoenix, Toms Thumb Trail takes hikers through the Sonoran Desert to a strange, thumb-shaped rock formation atop a mountain. And Phoenix's South Mountain Park is no exception. Soaring more 2,700 feet in elevation, Camelback's summit offers spectacular views of Phoenix and Scottsdale and can be reached from the 2.5-mile (incredibly steep) out-and-back Echo Canyon Trail. Many were intrigued by the history of the square, but some noted that it could be easily seen in a short period of time. When you visit the site, Dotdash Meredith and its partners may store or retrieve information on your browser, mostly in the form of cookies.