The 20 best things to do in Phoenix right now

What is it? A 140-acre garden to peep at plants and learn about the area’s landscape.

Why go? Desert Botanical Garden is the best way to understand what makes Phoenix’s nature scene tick. Not only are the flora and fauna exquisite to see, but plenty of desert creatures live among the garden. While it may be a touch hot during the summer to drop by during the day, keep an eye on the calendar for events that can be experienced in the evening, like Sonoran Sippin’ or the Sunset Sound Meditation.  

Don’t miss: Taking a flashlight tour, available as a group tour or self-paced trails where attendees are armed with flashlights to see and hear what dwells in the desert after dark.

What is it? A four-story castle, viewable from the freeway, that stands out like a beacon amid the desert landscape

Why go? Once you catch sight of this fascinating structure, you’ll want to tour it right away—and a ticketed tour is in fact the only way to see the inside of the 5,000-square-foot landmark. As you wander through Tovrea Castle, learn about the three different families responsible for this feat of architecture coming to fruition. Due to the overwhelming demand, tickets for tours are released on a lottery system, so plan ahead of time. 

Don’t miss: Keep your eyes peeled for the cactus garden, one of the original features that has been modified throughout the years and cared for by groups of volunteers to preserve the vast cacti collection.

What is it? A state-of-the-art collection housing more than 8,000 instruments from across 200 countries. 

Why go? The Musical Instrument Museum is one of the cultural gems of Phoenix. Rooms take visitors around the globe with exhibits encouraging hands-on interactions. With so much to see, it’s virtually impossible to get to everything in one day; luckily, multi-day tickets are available, which is perfect for hot summer days when indoor activities are a must.

Don’t miss: If you can’t get to the entire museum, prioritize whatever the current exhibition is, which will run for approximately 10 months before being switched out and can be purchased to explore separately.

What is it? A museum dedicated to the appreciation and increased awareness of American Indian art.

Why go? Founded in 1929, it would be hard for anywhere else in the country to beat the collection of Native American artwork that the Heard Museum houses. Browse through rotating exhibitions, a permanent collection and signature events that are as fun as they are informative. Learn about artistic traditions and evolutions through paintings, sculptures and textiles, while also focusing on artists from the Southwest.

Don’t miss: The Heard Museum Shop is one of the best places in the city to purchase Native American art, including jewelry and pottery, as it has worked directly with local artists for decades.

What is it? A nearly century-old mansion built by William Wrigley Jr. that has been expertly restored in recent years. 

Why go? Two of the best restaurants in town are located here, Geordie’s and Christopher’s. The tasting menu at Christopher’s is exquisite and Geordie’s has one of the best views in the city (along with a great menu). If you can’t make dinner, book a reservation for a property tour and pop into Geordie’s Lounge afterwards for cocktails.

Don’t miss: The property hosts numerous events throughout the year but stop by on Thursdays for jazz night from 7 to 8:30 pm to honor late owner Geordie Hormel’s love of playing piano. Reservations are highly recommended.

What is it? A pedestrian area known for its mix of local shops, restaurants, bars and galleries. 

Why go? In recent years, Phoenix’s growth has spurred the organic creation of neighborhoods, which had sorely been lacking. Now, the city has numerous distinct areas for visitors and locals to enjoy; one of the best is Roosevelt Row. An artsy district that runs from 7th Avenue to 16th Street through the center of Downtown, Roosevelt Row is a great encapsulation of what Phoenix has to offer. Though the visual art, with murals that cover the sides of buildings and alleys, may be the main draw here, you’ll want to make sure to scope out the indie businesses in between. Hit the original Matt’s Big Breakfast, grab a cocktail at Sake Haus and crack open your wallet at Phoenix General for the perfect souvenir. 

Don’t miss: Brave some of the summer heat for the weekly Sidewalk Saturdays Artisan Market from 10am to 3pm. Over 30 vendors are available selling arts, crafts, clothing and other local goods. 

What is it? A chance to see artwork from more than 70 galleries into the evening. 

Why go? A Phoenix tradition for more than 20 years, neighborhoods like Roosevelt Row and Grand Avenue get extra artsy on the first Friday of each month. This is a great way to take in the city’s diverse art scene, as the monthly events feature rotating exhibitions by artists working with all mediums. Expect to see live street performers and nosh on goodies from area eateries and food trucks.

Don’t miss: Even though the majority of stops are galleries, other creative venues will offer special events on First Fridays as well; check out places like the Irish Cultural Center that offer Slow Sessions for curious musicians to learn traditional music.

What is it? A 3.5-acre tea garden and tea house located in the heart of central Phoenix. 

Why go? Named Rohoen, this is a nest of calm and beauty so unassuming from the outside that it’s easy to miss. The Japanese Friendship Garden is a tranquil and gorgeous getaway that was conceived of as a way to connect Phoenix with its sister city Himeji in Japan, which donated all of the design and guides for construction. Wander through the garden to admire lush plants and the 14-foot waterfall, or convene with the hundreds of koi fish. Regular events that feature Japanese artists, dancers, food and musicians are great ways to mingle with other garden lovers.

Don’t miss: Chanoyu, the traditional Japanese tea ceremony, is performed once a month. The experience is 90 minutes, including a tour and a 30-minute silent ceremony. Reservations are required and there is only room for six attendees.

What is it? An award-winning OG of the city’s creative cocktail scene.

Why go? Ironically located at the former Arizona Prohibition Headquarters, Bitter & Twisted has been serving world-class drinks for over a decade. Browsing the delicious, fun and world-class drinks by flipping through the many pages of the beautiful (and a little twisted) menu is a reason to visit alone. But really, you’re here for the cocktails, where everything from the creative drinkware to the accents topping each drink have been carefully thought out. The menu, which is updated regularly, is robust in options; if you’re feeling overwhelmed, check out the list of tried-and-true favorites. Book a seat at the bar for a true show of mixology skill while sipping your libations.

Don’t miss: Don’t skip out on the food menu, with an eclectic but craveable selection of items to munch on. Fan favorites include the Dragon Dumpling Burger and the Ramen Burger; for something simple, grab the Hurricane Popcorn with garlic and furikake.

What is it? A fun destination for the 21-and-over crowd who like to mix drinking and gaming.

Why go? Show off your gaming prowess while maneuvering Ms. Pac-Man around the screen, gobbling dots for points. That’s just one of the classic games you’ll find at Cobra Arcade Bar, and there are a slew of others available to play with, including Centipede, Donkey Kong and Super Mario Bros. Signature cocktails like the Punch Out and Garbage Pail Kids keep up with the venue’s theme. A rotating list of DJs keep things humming Wednesday through Sunday.

Don’t miss: Both parking and the bar can fill up quickly, especially on weekends. Plan on arriving early so you don’t need to wait for either. It is possible to book tables before 8pm if you don’t want to risk it.

What is it? The oldest arts organization in Arizona has been providing world-class performances and premieres for the last century. 

Why go? Los Angeles may hog the region’s cultural spotlight, but places like the Phoenix Theatre Company are proud reminders that the city’s thriving arts scene is not to be missed—and a cultural destination in its own right. Located near the Phoenix Art Museum and Heard Museum, the company packs stages with a fresh lineup of classic and new productions every season.

Don’t miss: There are plenty of options to get discounted tickets for veterans, those under 40 and students. You also get $10 off if you present your Phoenix Art Museum ticket stub from a recent visit.

What is it? A 16,000-acre urban park with outstanding views and well-preserved trails and wildlife.

Why go? Temperature aside, Phoenix is a premier hiking destination, with conquerable trails and mountains across the city. One of the best places to get your adventure on is South Mountain Park, with over 50 different trails you can walk, bike or ride horseback across. There are paths for every level, and the views of the city are worth the effort. In the summer, get out early (and bring plenty of water) as the heat while hiking is no joke. Also note that the last Sunday of the month is Silent Sunday, when no motorized vehicles are allowed into the park.

Don’t miss: Keep your eyes out for the petroglyphs that dot the park and were created by the Hohokam, who lived in the Phoenix area a thousand years ago. You can spot them along various trails like Judith Tunnel, Mormon Loop Trail and Kiwanis Trail. Remember to look but not touch!

What is it? Phoenix’s major league baseball team in their centrally located stadium that comes with a retractable roof. 

Why go? The Arizona Diamondbacks are consistently ranked as one of the most family- and budget-friendly teams in the league. Tickets during the summer can be pretty inexpensive and often come in packages that include food and drink. It’s a great spot for kids, with the upper concourse Sandlot available that includes playgrounds, a batting cage and even a way to run the bases. And don’t miss specialities like Someburros for a taste of local Mexican food or the beloved churro dog. 

Don’t miss: Every Friday home game comes with post-game fireworks for all attendees to enjoy. 

What is it? A sprawling scientific center in Downtown that families and adults will enjoy. 

Why go? While this makes a great indoor activity for families during the height of summer, the Arizona Science Center is a fun-filled place year-round. Exhibits explore various aspects of the scientific world with an emphasis on participation, and a constantly changing lineup of programs and presentations makes each visit unique. The current exhibition on poisons incorporates sections on historical mysteries, how toxicology works and how poison works in the natural world.

Don’t miss: Science with a TWIST is the Center’s after-hours programming, where monthly events for those 21 and up involve cocktails, small bites and activities all centered around a scientific topic.

What is it? A regional park that includes more than just great trails. 

Why go? This verdant park is a hiker’s dream. With various winding trails fit for every experience level, Papago Park is also known for its larger buttes. A fantastic starting spot for even the most nervous beginners, the dirt and sandstone trails are easy-to-moderate and offer scenic surroundings and captivating views. The trails also make it easy for runners and mountain bikers to navigate. But Papago Park is more than just hiking: You can go fishing at Papago Ponds, and there’s an archery range as well as Papago Golf Club, a great public course used by Arizona State University’s golf teams.

Don’t miss: Stop by the Hall of Flame museum, which honors Arizona’s firefighting history. Collections include everything from horse- and hand-drawn fire engines to fire helmets from across the world.

What is it? A bar featuring agave spirits with a relaxed cantina upstairs and a sultry basement lounge. 

Why go? Anyone remotely interested in exploring the world of tequila and beyond should head to BARCOA Agaveria. It’s home to not one but two different bar areas serving every agave spirit available: mezcal, sotol, racilla, bacanora and tequila, of course. The upstairs cantina is laid-back, with a vibe of a roadside Mexican hangout, complete with a large wooden bar. In the evening, the downstairs basement bar is kept hopping with creative agave-based cocktails and patrons sampling some of the hundreds of bottles available.

Don’t miss: The upstairs cantina doubles as a retail shop, stocked with bottles that are difficult if not impossible to find anywhere else.

What is it? A luxurious, Frank Lloyd Wright-inspired resort catering to locals, visitors and celebrities for almost a century.  

Why go? Although Phoenix metro is home to numerous stunning resorts, there’s nothing quite like the elegant Arizona Biltmore. Opened in 1929, the property has been sold and renovated throughout the years but has never lost its Art Deco charm. If you’re not staying on property, there’s plenty of ways to check things out, whether dinner at Renata’s Hearth or drinks at the Wright Bar. Ninety-minute walking tours are available to get even more insight and background on the resort. 

Don’t miss: Swinging by the bar to order a Tequila Sunrise, which most people don’t realize was created at the Arizona Biltmore in the 1930s by bartender Gene Sulit.

What is it? Arizona’s WNBA team serves high-octane basketball in one of the best arenas around (it’s also home to the NBA’s Phoenix Suns).

Why go? During the summer, activities with good air conditioning are extremely valuable. Luckily, the Phoenix Mercury’s schedule provides plenty of opportunities to cheer on the team indoors at the recently renovated PHX Arena. Game tickets are reasonably priced and the arena is easily accessible Downtown with the light rail system. Looking to kick things up another notch? Check out the myriad of premium experiences available, even right before game time; it’s occasionally possible to upgrade to a suite for a relatively modest price.

Don’t miss: If you’re grabbing something to eat at the game, try to make it Spinato’s pizza, a local institution that now has a spot for all to try in the arena.

What is it? When it’s not home to Arizona Cardinals football games, this stadium hosts some of the biggest concerts and events in town. 

Why go? State Farm Stadium is peppering big acts throughout the summer, starting with Post Malone in June. Morgan Wallen and his “I’m the Problem” tour swings through July 18 and 19, supported by Miranda Lambert and Brooks & Dunn. And if you’re not into rocking out, then come support scoring goals at the Concacaf Gold Cup Quarterfinal Matches on June 28. The all-day soccer matches will pit national teams throughout North and Central America alongside the Caribbean.

Don’t miss: Think ahead about how you intend to go to the events; parking is a drag even in good weather, but in summer it’s downright miserable as post-show temps are still in the triple digits. Plan ahead and purchase parking passes through the stadium’s site.

What is it? Phoenix’s local professional soccer team.

Why go? The United Soccer League’s 2025 schedule has put only a couple of home games for the Rising through June and July, so grab your portable fans and misters to cheer on one of the most exciting teams we have in town. The open-air stadium is located near Phoenix Sky Harbor airport and right along the Valley Metro light rail, so it’s easy to get to. Tickets are very affordable, and the crowds are passionate and electric; it’s a great way to spend a summer evening. June 7 is Pride Night against Orange County SC and July 4 is Military Appreciation Night while hosting Lexington SC.

Don’t miss: For $50, you can get a ticket package that gives you access to all home games in June, July and August.