Phoenix, Arizona, may be most famous for its sunshine and cacti, but this desert city has much more to offer visitors. Phoenix attractions include fine dining, art and culture, historical exploration and outdoor recreation. According to the Greater Phoenix Convention and Visitors Bureau, hot summer temperatures equal lower rates at Phoenix hotels, so don’t let the heat keep you from visiting in the warmer months--just don’t forget your sunscreen.
The Clarendon Hotel is just north of downtown Phoenix. Guests can unwind on the rooftop deck with views of the city, or swim in a pool featuring underwater speakers, water jets, a fountain, almost 1,000 illuminated stars and a two-story high glass water wall. Listen to live music at the hotel lounge during the week. The Clarendon is a stop on the monthly First Friday artwalk event, which features displays and booths from local artists.
No trip to Phoenix would be complete without sampling the region’s southwestern cuisine. Sierra Bonita Grill is named after a historic Arizona ranch. The restaurant serves cuisines influenced by Spanish, Mexican and American flavors. Menu items include smoked red chile pork roast, carne asada and pan-seared red trout with fire-roasted peppers.
Take a nature walk in the Desert Botanical Garden. Set on 145 acres, the garden is home to more than 50,000 horticultural displays from the mighty saguaro cactus to ocotillo and yucca plants. The garden also features art exhibits, musical events, a seasonal butterfly house, café and gift shop.
Explore the city’s artistic and cultural heritage at the Phoenix Art Museum. The museum’s collections include contemporary and classic works by American and international artists such as Georgia O’Keefe, Maynard Dixon, Eastman Johnson, Pablo Picasso and William De Kooning. The museum café, Arcadia Farms, serves sandwiches, salads and deserts made from locally-produced and organic ingredients.
The Heard Museum holds hundreds of works by American Indian artists in 10 galleries, including paintings, sculptures, carvings and handicrafts. The Billie Jane Baguley Library and Archives contains materials on the art forms of indigenous cultures from around the world as well as a directory of more than 25,000 Native American artists. The museum also features a café, outdoor sculpture garden, free guided tours and a gift shop.
Phoenix’s sunny, dry climate creates optimal conditions for golf. With 185 courses to choose from in the Phoenix metro area, the city offers play for amateurs to experienced golfers. Public courses include Encanto Park, a championship course south of downtown. The third oldest course in the city, Encanto Park features an 18-hole course, a nine-hole executive course, many palm and salt cedar trees, and wide, level fairways. Encanto Park has a full-service pro shop café and offers clinics and classes for youth and adults.
