The American Southwest is brimming with things to see and do and one city in particular is becoming the star of the show.  Phoenix holds all four professional sports leagues, is an outdoor mecca for biking and hiking, and if you are a big foodie then you should definitely read about the best places to eat in Phoenix here.  Plan your next trip to soak up the sun and check off these top ten things to do in Phoenix.

1. Catch the sunset at Desert Botanical Garden

This uniquely stunning garden is best experienced at sunset. With over 50,00 desert plants and five trails this is an ideal way to see Arizona’s dramatic landscape. As the sun sets and turns the sky into rich reds and oranges the cacti glow among the contrast.

2. Go Horseback Riding or Ride Segways at Fort McDowell Adventures

Fort McDowell Adventures is a historic 25,000 acres of Yavapai Nation with 950 members. They take great pride in their community and welcome respectful visitors to their beautiful lands. Here you can take a fun filled segway tour through the desert, or take another scenic route by horseback.

Explore Phoenix through my video below!

3. Enjoy Fresh Margaritas and Savory Tacos at CRUjientes

This lively taqueria is redefining the taco game. Street style tacos with bold flavors served up with fresh modern margaritas.  Chef Richard Hinojosa is constantly creating new tacos to try and you won’t be disappointed.

Whats in My Bag: Phoenix Edition:

4. Explore Roosevelt Row

This hip art district located in downtown Phoenix is nationally known for its arts and cultural events.  Full of boutiques, restaurants and  beautifully colored wall murals make this area a charming afternoon walk.

5. Eat Everything on the Mesa Fresh Foodie Trail

Take a day to drive through Mesa’s Fresh Foodie Trail, the long time culinary gateway to greater Phoenix.  Not only will you be able to try local fresh foods but you’ll be able to see Mesa’s beauty, along with some Southwest regional towns.

6. Take a Hot Air Balloon Ride

There are fewer things that beat watching a sunrise while riding in a hot air balloon over the Sonoran Desert.  The view from above is tranquil, and riding in a hot air balloon provides unparalleled views of the desert and mountain ranges.

7. Indulge in a Spa Day at Avania Spa

You can’t take a trip to Phoenix without indulging in day of relaxing in a decadent spa.  Avania offers so many rejuvenating services and they even have a Himalayan salt room!  This was the best part for me and there are so many health benefits!

8. Hike the Mesa Wind Cave Trail

This 3 mile hike with incredible views gains over 800 feet in elevation.  It was a great workout walking through all the different species of cacti and being fully submersed in the Sonoran Desert.

9. The “WIne Me, Dine Me” Experience

The Wine Me Dine Me Experience at the Hyatt Regency Scottsdale Resort and Spa is a fun and dynamic interactive experience! You sit at the counter directly in front of the open kitchen and Chef Juan personally walks you through each course and pairing and discusses how it is prepared.

10. Tour Agritopia

Agritopia is a an urban farm set along the Mesa Fresh Foodie Trail I mentioned earlier.  This place is special because there is so much goodness in one area.  Stop by Garage-East and try some wine, or swing into the Coffee Shop – who won cupcake wars on food network 3 times!! The Farm Stand sells the same day harvest, and all produce is grown under the USDA organic protocol.

Phoenix is definitely becoming one of America’s best cities and is the perfect getaway during the dark, cold winter days! Let me know what your favorite is!

**This trip was in partnership with Visit Phoenix.  I’m so thankful to them for inviting me out and showing me the beautiful greater Phoenix area! As always, all opinions are my own.

Pin For Later