Capital and most populous city of Arizona, U.S.
Photo: Bigmikebmw, CC BY-SA 3.0 via Wikimedia Commons
Phoenix is the capital of the state of Arizona, the most populous city in the American Southwest. Warm and sunny winter weather have ensured a thriving tourism industry, and the city has become the region's primary political, cultural, economic, and transportation center. Phoenix is extremely hot and dry in the summertime, so always have sunscreen with you! It had about 1,625,000 residents in 2021, and is the fifth largest city in the United States.
From the travel guide. Select a place for details, a map and what is nearby.
features a museum and visitor center dedicated to the preservation of historic petroglyphs and pictographs at the base of Hedgpeth Hills. A must see for geologists and archaeologists.
50 acres of exhibits showcasing desert plants, with an emphasis on plant life of the Sonoran Desert and arid lands around the world. It includes many examples of ethnobotany, or how plants are used to survive in the desert. As a consequence of the many plants in this area there are also many desert animals such as lizards, birds, and occasional roadrunners.
Japanese-style garden with koi pond and tea house. Closed in the summer due to heat.
This center features 350 permanent hands-on exhibits and regularly hosts nationally acclaimed traveling exhibits. Also features a 5-story IMAX theater and planetarium.
World famous museum celebrating Native American cultures and arts, especially those of Arizona and New Mexico. Be sure to check out the amazing collection of Hopi Kachina dolls.
16,000 artworks with an emphasis on American, Asian, Latin American, and modern and contemporary.
Arizona Capitol Museum
The Arizona Capitol Museum uses a balance of technology, hands-on activities, historical artifacts, and public programs to help visitors learn about and interact with the government of the 48th state.
Small, free art gallery on 1st floor of Phoenix City Hall with some of the over 1000 pieces of art on display from the city of Phoenix Municipal Art Collection which began in 1915.
Has many exhibits where you can see and hear the history of music from around the world, using a spatially sensitive audio guide that plays example tracks automatically when you get proximal to one of the displayed instruments. The main exhibition is organized geographically, with examples from all seven continents. Another exhibit shows the instruments of famous musicians that have ended up in the museum's collection, including Clara Rockmore's theramin. There's also a room for kids of all ages to try out instruments.
On the first floor of the historic city hall, it gives the history of the Phoenix Police Department in historic and modern context. Starts with a rock with shackles, which was the original jail. Even has the police department's first helicopter. There's a small exhibit dedicated to Miranda and Miranda rights and a memorial for 9/11.
Third best children's museum in the country.
National Firefighting Hall of Heroes
Almost an acre of fire history exhibits, with over 90 fully restored pieces of fire apparatus on display, dating from 1725 to 1969.
The Earth & Space Expedition Center is a public museum, that is open Saturdays from 11AM-3PM. Space exhibits include a ten-foot Shuttle Atlantis display courtesy of Honeywell, a deep space gallery, and a large scale solar system model. The center features autographed memorabilia and mission patches from past Space Missions, as well as a large inflatable Planetarium and a pair of amazing Magic Planets. The Galaxy Gift Shop offers hundreds of educational space and science items, including books, toys, puzzles, gadgets and games.
The U.S.'s only city-operated archaeological site, preserving a 1500-year-old Hohokam ruin in the shadow of Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport. This ruin is one of only two Hohokam mounds remaining in the metro Phoenix area (the other being the underdeveloped Mesa Grande ruins). The museum and site is comparable to the more famous (and more remote) Casa Grande Ruins National Monument, but the visible ruins are not as large.
Be sure to take a walk around this amazing piece of historic architecture set in downtown Phoenix. Built in 1929 in the Spanish Baroque style, this building feature intricate murals and moldings.
Pay your respects to the victims of Pearl Harbor at the Arizona State Capitol's memorial to the USS Arizona. One of the two 19,585-lb (8880-kg) anchors of the Arizona is displayed.
A historically accurate recreation of an 1800s frontier town between Phoenix and Anthem. Over 30 buildings provide a living example of what frontier life was like then.
Visit this legendary Phoenix landmark built in 1921 and has hosted famous guests such as Fred Astaire, Marilyn Monroe, Bob Hope, and the President of the United States when he is in town.
Take a tour of the amazing architecture and grounds of this historic mansion built by the famous chewing gum magnate.
Tovrea Castle is a historic structure and landmark, which is particularly visible to drivers on Arizona State Route 202. It was intended as a centerpiece for a resort, but was used as a private residence for the Tovrea family, who owned the Phoenix Stockyards which once were adjacent to the property. The rococo style building was constructed in a unique three-tier fashion which has resemblance to a traditional multilayered wedding cake. The castle is now part of the Phoenix parks system and is designated as one of the Phoenix Points of Pride. The park shows over 5,000 cacti in over 100 varieties, all maintained by volunteers of the Tovrea Carraro Society. There's only 1-2 tours on weekend mornings, so they can sell out months in advance.
A fully-restored 1895 Queen Anne Victorian house museum which interprets the history of Phoenix. The only way to enter the house is through an hour-long tour which runs hourly.
Largest amusement park in town, and the only one with roller coasters and other thrill rides. Also has four mini-golf courses and a two-story arcade.
Great rides for children pre-k - 5th grade. There is a train that circles the park. Canoe rental.
Mixed use urban project which includes retail, shopping and entertainment such as a pub, comedy club, bowling alley and various restaurants. From late November through early January there is a holiday ice skating rink called Cityskate which has an admission fee ($12 to $15 which includes skate rental), nightly lightshows from 7 to 10PM and a 36 foot tall Christmas tree.
Farmers market open year round offering fresh produce, prepared food and food trucks.
Venue which hosts live jazz music a few nights every week. Check website for exact event schedule and cost (cover varies from $5 to $15). BYOB-corkage fee of $5 for bottle of wine and $1 for bottle of beer. Listed as Best Jazz Joint in 2013 by the Phoenix New Times.
Scenic hot air balloon rides daily in Phoenix and Scottsdale.
A wide variety of spa treatments including a salon, relaxing body treatments, hydrating facials, & “just for kids” treatments.
The most recognizable landmark of the area, Camelback Mountain rises to 2704 ft at its summit. It sits between Phoenix to the south and Paradise Valley to the North. The lower areas of the mountain contain some of the most exclusive residences in the Valley, with the upper sections now part of a park. There are very challenging and difficult hiking trails to the summit that are not recommended for any but experienced hikers. As well, parking near the mountain is extremely limited. The mountain consists of red rock, and is in the general shape of a camel's silhouette. A rock formation on the mountain is known as Praying Monk. The park also contains Echo Canyon.
In the middle of Phoenix lies Phoenix Mountains Park. The park offers a strenuous one- to two-hour hike to the top of Piestewa Peak, offering fantastic 360° views of the city and its surrounding environment. There are several alternative hiking trails (trail 304, 202, 8A) besides the very popular peak trail. The other well-known mountain in the area (Camelback Mountain being the most well known). The peak was known as "Squaw Peak" before being renamed in honor of Army Spc. Lori Ann Piestewa who was the first Native American woman killed in combat in the U.S. military in 2003. Due to the name change, visitors will find references to the peak under both names (for instance, the road leading to the park on the south side of the mountain still has the prior name). This mountain, whose summit rises to 2608 ft, is much more accessible to visitors than is Camelback Mountain (come early on weekends during winter months for parking). There are picnic areas on the south side of the mountain (Phoenix Mountains Park entrance on Squaw Peak Ln) and the north side (Dreamy Draw Park, entrance via Northern Ave, but it is closed until 2023 for redevelopment). Especially during the hot summer months (up to 110-115°F/43°C in the afternoon), use caution and bring lots of water and a hat. There is no shade and parts of the trail can be quite steep and rocky. The park also has several picnic areas.
Picnic areas, hiking trails, excellent view of the city from above. An oasis of desert inside the city limits.
South Mountain Park and Preserve is the largest municipal park in the United States. With more than 16,000 acres, it has 51 miles of trails for horseback riding, hiking and mountain biking. By driving up the scenic Summit Road to Dobbins Lookout, you will be treated to spectacular views of metropolitan Phoenix area.
The largest outdoor shooting facility in the country. The favorable weather provides excellent year-round conditions for shooting. Eye protection is required; ear protection is recommended.
Awarded the Four-Star Award by Golf Digest, Arizona Grand Golf Course is one of the most challenging golf courses in the Phoenix area and blends desert target golf with traditional links.
The city's classical and pops orchestra, presenting a 25-week season of concerts.
Presenting a season of five grand opera productions, with emphasis on Verdi, Puccini, and Mozart.
Professional theater in downtown Phoenix's Herberger theater complex.
Contemporary art displays and studios. Home of the Southwest Shakespeare Company and the Mesa Symphony Orchestra.
Professional theatre in an intimate setting. New Works Festival in July.
The Carnival of Illusion Parlour Show presents national quality magic in an intimate setting at the Historic Arizona Biltmore Resort and is limited to 125 guests. The hosts are the National Recipients for Excellence in Magic and have performed as house entertainers at the world's top resorts, for Fortune 100 CEOs, to the 200 Most Powerful Women in America.
Take in a baseball game at the unique Chase Field (often called "The BOB", from its former name of Bank One Ballpark). It has a capacity of 49,033, with a retractable roof, air conditioning, and a swimming pool available for rental.
Very popular NBA team featuring players such as Kevin Durant and Devin Booker. The Suns play at Footprint Center in downtown Phoenix, which is near a light rail station.
Very popular WNBA team. Shares Footprint Center in downtown Phoenix with the Suns.
Annually February - March the Phoenix Metropolitan Area hosts 15 Major League Baseball teams for their spring training activities and exhibition games. A great way to spend the afternoon on a beautiful Arizona Spring day.
The teams representing Arizona State University, competing as one of the newest members of the Big 12 Conference. Most of the athletic facilities are on campus, with the best-known being Mountain America Stadium (historically Sun Devil Stadium; football), Desert Financial Arena (basketball), and Mullett Arena (ice hockey). Mullett Arena was the temporary home of the NHL's Arizona Coyotes from 2022–2024 until that team was sold to the owners of the NBA's Utah Jazz, and now hosts the Suns' NBA G League affiliate, the Valley Suns. However, the baseball team plays in Phoenix proper at Phoenix Municipal Stadium. Tickets are often more affordable than those for professional sports.
The teams representing Grand Canyon University, which joined the Mountain West Conference in July 2025. The Antelopes, who don't have a football team (unlike all other full members of their new conference), have completed a transition to NCAA Division I sports. As with ASU, most of GCU's athletic facilities are on campus. In the last few years, the GCU student section, known as the Havocs, has developed a reputation as one of the loudest and most energetic in American college sports.
A 3-day festival in December held at Margaret T. Hance Park in downtown Phoenix that features local artists and exhibitors selling art, a community mural, food trucks, performances on 2 stages and a beer and wine garden.
Annual one-day beer festival in late July hosted by Arizona Craft Brewers Guild in downtown Phoenix with more than 50 local brewers offering local and unusual beers. The admission fee ($60 for 2019) includes attendance to the event, 20 beer sampling tickets and food samples. An event for those aged 21 and older.
On the first Friday of every month, hundreds of local art galleries, venues, and shops open up free to the public. This local tradition has been going strong since 1994 and has become the largest art walk in the United States. A great place to see and be seen. (Parking at Burton Barr library for First Friday is forbidden, and parking is difficult to obtain nearby. Consider taking the light rail.)
The celebration takes place annually (April) in the city of Phoenix, Arizona. The festival began as a showcase for feature films made for under $1 million and short films made for under $50,000, however, it is quickly climbing its way into elite status in the film circuit due to its first class treatment of filmmakers.
Annual festival each spring in downtown Phoenix celebrating Japanese culture. Martial arts, taiko drumming, bonsai, cosplay, food, fashion, music, and more.
Annual moving mass of humanity for the Rock N'Roll half-marathon, and marathon in mid-January. Bands at every mile. Big party in the evening of the marathon. Starts in Phoenix (Washington St/7th Ave) and weaves through Phoenix, Scottsdale and Tempe to finish in the ASU athletic center. Pretty flat course, reasonable crowd support. Expo in Phoenix Convention Center, Monroe/3rd St.
Swim (2.4 mi), bike (112 mi), run (26.2 mi): the same as Ironman in Kona Hawaii. Entry ($425 limited to 1,500) impossible to get unless sponsored by a charity, contestant in previous year, or part of race crew.
One of the 4 big college football bowls. Played at the $430m State Farm Stadium (looks like a giant spaceship with a retractable playing field). Parade on Saturday before bowl at 11AM start at Central Ave/Bethany Home in Phoenix is always quite spectacular and free.
Phoenix Open Golf tournament in Feb draws a lot of big-name players. Big party atmosphere at the 16th hole. Lots of happenings in the evening at the Birds Nest.
Magic, Mystery & Oooh La La
National recipients for "Excellence in Magic" Roland Sarlot and Susan Eyed present a Vaudeville-inspired illusion show. Carnival of Illusion is the longest running Arizona theater show in history.
"Home of the Original Windy City Slider" is the restaurant's slogan, and the small burgers (along with larger fare) are found here. A Chicago themed sandwich shop offering hot dogs, sandwiches and even Frito Pie (according to the menu, a former manager from Texas added it to the menu and they've left it on). This place is more what you would expect of a traditional burger joint than Delux Burger (listed below). Delux is when you want something more formal, Chicago Hamburger Company is when you want to grab a traditional burger shop-lunch.
Strange and wonderful fusion of Mexican and Asian cuisine. It can take a little bit of work to understand how to order, so using the online interactive menu ahead of time is useful for first-timers. Ask for a sample spoon if you're not sure about a flavor combination.
Since 1992 this Tohono O'odham-owned and -operated restaurant has served authentic Native American cuisine, based on family recipes that the restaurant owner learned as a child. Specializes in frybread in all its varieties. Features an all-Native American staff.
Reputed vegan restaurant. PETA named the secret BBQ Chicken sandwich as the best faux chicken sandwich in the USA.
Very popular breakfast restaurant in downtown Phoenix.
Food truck which turns up at various random events and locations (a calendar is posted on their website). Street tacos, burritos, quesadillas: a mix of southwest culinary roots with classical training.
Neighborhood Mexican food restaurant featuring fairly standard Arizona Mexican food fare at reasonable prices.
Food truck and restaurant serving gourmet burgers.
Authentic pizza. Food truck services.
A local tradition open since 1947, serving seafood and burgers with their signature Pete's sauce. All locations are cash only, but have ATMs on site.
A historic family-run Mexican restaurant that's a popular local hangout. Large patios and beautiful traditional decor, as well as a Palapa bar and Bocce court. Excellent chips and salsa. Band every Friday night, Sunday open mic night. Breakfast on weekends.
An interesting fusion of Japanese and Italian cuisine. One of the only places in the valley to offer an authentic Japanese beer, Calpico, a creamy beer with Japanese calpico brand drink mixed with lager beer.
Large warehouse with vintage design that contains a restaurant (food served from 1965 streamline trailer), soda fountain, bar, ice cream shop, boxing ring and clothing shop.
Founded in 1957, about a half-mile north of the original location that was just south of McDowell Rd. on 35th Ave. A chain was later spawned from the restaurant, but this location remained outside the chain and under family control. Arguably, along with Macayo's, served to define what was expected of Phoenix area Mexican food.
Local Italian restaurant on the border of Phoenix and Paradise Valley, features fresh seafood and homemade pasta. Reservations required.
Popular neighborhood cafe featuring breakfast, sandwiches and grocery items, as well as pizzeria next door. Parking is often difficult in the area, though valet parking is offered as well as curbside service.
Sonoran-style dominates Phoenix-area Mexican cookery, but Los Dos celebrates the cuisine of New Mexico -- which means lots of very hot chiles. This long-established and highly regarded restaurant is a must for all true chile-heads. Reservations not accepted.
Sports grill and lounge owned by former pro basketball player Dan Majerle.
Neighborhood artisan pizza restaurant, which reused the landmark Salon de Venus beauty salon building when it shut down after 60 years.
Southwestern-themed variations on grill fare is offered by this local restaurant.
Offers a selection not only of pitas, but also of other Mediterranean inspired meals in a sit down environment.
Winner of numerous awards. The chef, Chris Bianco, no longer cooks all pies, but is on premises most of the time. Small restaurant, expect lines at popular eating times (F Sa 6:30-8PM).
Fun little wine cafe on Central Avenue, just north of Camelback Rd. Good wine selection, but the bruschetta boards are the main attraction.
Originally named "Lone Star Steaks" the restaurant changed its name when a national chain moved to town and wanted to sue. Offers reasonably priced steaks and exceptional Texas fare. Specialties are Chicken Fried Steak, choice aged beef and home made desserts.
Great island-inspired food and drinks.
Eatery offering elevated Mexican street eats, drinks & patio seating in a hip, colorful setting.
Classic American "special occasion" restaurant, where the price isn't listed on the menu, and the parking is valet.
At the base of both Camelback and Mummy mountains, this restaurant is well-known to locals for its views of stunning desert scenery and for the historic charm of its buildings. Even if you've just dropping by for drinks on the patio, don't miss trying the complimentary sticky buns.
A steakhouse adjacent to Arizona Grand Resort, it shares an elevated, picturesque view of the metro-Phoenix area. A gigantic live bull in a pen at the front of the restaurant, a slide to the downstairs seating, cotton candy at the end of the meal, and loud live country western music are part of the ambiance. In addition to common steakhouse fare, local items include Rattlesnake with Prickly Pear Cactus Fries.
Billed as "Arizona's Original Steakhouse", the aptly named restaurant opened for public dinning in 1947. "Steak on the hoof" was visible to visitors as they entered and exited the restaurant, as it was adjacent to the Tovrea families' 200-acre feedlot and packing house, which accommodated more than 300,000 head of cattle each year. While the cattle are now gone, the authentic western cuisine and "refreshments" remain. Includes the 1889 Saloon, which features authentic 19th-century Old West decor and furnishings, and the famous Gold Room.
Chef Mark Tarbell's namesake restaurant, it features Southwestern themed cuisine and local organic ingredients. Per the website, dress is "resort casual" defined as "everything from denim to diamonds."
Farm-to-table fresh delicious food.
Richardson's serves some of the spiciest New Mexican cuisine in Arizona on copper-topped tables and bars. The Rokerij (pronounced ro-ker-ee) means “smokehouse in Dutch” and features a great selection of steaks, chops, fresh fish and “small plates.” Don’t miss the down stairs bar. Both feature dim-lighting and great service. Reservations for parties of 6 or more suggested.
Swanky and stylish bar and restaurant in a historic Phoenix building constructed in the 1940s serving food such as pizza, sandwiches and salads and a variety of cocktails. $5 classic martinis served all day
Downtown Phoenix bar and restaurant with Phoenix's only rooftop dance floor that attracts a young crowd. Nightclub is open W-Sa.
Bar and restaurant with 31 rotating craft beers on tap serving lunch and dinner. 3,000-foot patio with a diverse menu with snacks, flatbreads and sandwiches.
A 7000-square-foot lounge, restaurant and music venue in a red brick warehouse built in 1917 which hosts live music every day. Happy hour is Monday-Thursday from 3-6PM and Friday from 11AM-6PM with $2 PBR, $3 wells and $3 local drafts.
Great small Irish pub downtown. Same owner of Rosie McCaffrey's up on Camelback. Live Irish rock music.
A cocktail parlor situated in a historic building in downtown Phoenix with an extensive drink menu that also serves food.
Basement bar and live music venue in downtown Phoenix that serves food and has a game room with darts, shuffleboard and a pool room. Some events have an admission charge and some events are free, check calendar on website for exact schedule and prices.
3300-square-foot Arcade Bar (21 and over) that has 40 vintage arcade games like Ms. Pac Man, Centipede, etc (25 cents a play) that serves beer, wine and cocktails. Happy hour M-F from 4 to 7PM and a live DJ plays Th-Sa nights.
British pub offering traditional British food and imported beer.
Neighborhood lounge with game room with electronic darts and arcade ball machines. 16 drafts or cocktails on tap and happy hour from 4PM to 7PM on weekdays and all day Sunday with drink and food specials. A takeaway case with beer and wine to go is available.
A wine cafe in the former Arcadia post office. In addition to wines, the cafe features panninis and salads. The cafe also offers $5 glasses of wine each day until 4PM.
Upscale sports bar with lots of TVs to watch games. Happy hour M-F (3PM to 7PM).
A hip place to enjoy libations and games.
Culinary Dropout
Don't have room for your own party, bring it here! Spirits flow, games galore, and lots of friends to visit with.
Eclectic neighborhood bar with very limited space and classic table games.
24 hour coffee shop, bistro and bar that serves food in downtown Phoenix. Live events on some nights such as open mic storytelling and live music.
Metcalf House
Office hours 8AM-10AM and 5PM-10PM; 24-hour access once checked in. Wi-Fi available for free.
This hotel features such amenities as a heated pool, continental breakfast, and high speed internet access.
Free hi-speed internet access, business center, meeting/banquet facilities, outdoor pool & whirlpool, fitness center. On-site cafe and cozy lounge area.
Renovated guest rooms and near Chase Field.
10 minutes or so from Sky Harbor Airport and right in the heart of midtown Phoenix north of the Heard Museum.
Offers free 24-hour airport shuttle, complimentary breakfast, high speed internet and spacious rooms.
Includes such amenities as an on-site grill, MP3-compatible clock radios, and an outdoor pool.
All suites have a fully equipped kitchen. Hot breakfast buffet, Welcome Home reception M-Th evenings, free hi-speed internet access, business center, outdoor pool & whirlpool, fitness center.
A boutique hotel that is a historic state landmark and a tourist site. Built in 1928 it is a member of the Historic Hotels of America and the National Trust of Historic Preservation. It has a heated rooftop pool with sundeck and a Vietnamese restaurant in the hotel. In the middle of downtown Phoenix near a Phoenix light rail station.
328 oversized condominiums, all with fully equipped kitchens or sleek kitchen-bars and washer/dryers.
The hotel offers complimentary shuttle service to and from Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport. Extended stay accommodations include full size kitchens and free internet. Complimentary hot breakfast buffet served daily.
Extended stay hotel in North Phoenix .
Midrange hotel.
All-suite hotel with microwave, fridge, free wired/wireless internet in every room. Pool, small gym, free breakfast, free airport shuttle.
The resort is between Piestewa Peak and Camelback Mountain, sitting along the smaller mountains between the two larger peaks.
Features a championship golf course, a luxury spa, vacation villas, dining at six restaurants and the Oasis Water Park.
The former Ritz Carlton was remade into this sleek, contemporary luxury hotel with southwestern touches and modern technology. Upgraded rooms add mountain views. Room service is available 24/7.
Part of the Midtown Museum District, independent boutique hotel with free international calls and ag pool area.
Major resort close to Piestewa Peak, this was the original Pointe resort built in the Valley. It used to be referred to only as the Pointe. With the addition of other Pointe Hilton resorts (at Tapatio Cliffs to the northwest and the former Pointe South Mountain, now the Arizona Grand Resort) the name was changed to Pointe Hilton Squaw Peak. Then the mountain's name was changed to Piestewa Peak. To locals, both this and the Pointe Hilton Tapatio Cliffs are known for their waterparks, with multiple pools, cabanas and even a waterslide.
Boutique hotel at Cityscape shopping and entertainment center with all 242 rooms having city and mountain views. 3rd floor outdoor pool and lounge which is open all year offers views of downtown Phoenix.
Glass elevator to 13th floor popular with locals for views. Rotating restaurant on top floor.
119 rooms in a variety of configurations: casitas, luxury rooms, spa suites, and villas. The resort also features a luxury spa, dining options and meeting & event facilities.
This Tucson-based used bookstore chain also carries used CDs, DVDs, video games, etc. There is an electric vehicle charging station and free Wi-Fi, and pets are welcome in the store.
Boutique wine store in downtown Phoenix that offer wine (tasted and selected by owners), beer, chocolate, pasta and snacks. Occasional wine tastings and delivery (for a fee) of wine is available. One block from the Van Buren St light rail station and free covered parking (garage entrance on the west side of the building).
A major retail power center is on I-17 on the north side of Happy Valley Rd. Anchor stores include a Harkins 14-screen cinema, Best Buy, and Dick's Sporting Goods. Many smaller retailers and casual dining restaurants are also in the shopping center.
To the west of Biltmore Fashion Square is a mall that has been revamped and in conjunction with the Colonnade, Camelback Center serve as a bustling shopping area for the Camelback corridor. With many shopping and dinning options for both deep pockets and value seekers, nearby hotels, condos, and apartments the area has become an uptown destination or at least the beginning of your night.
Includes many high-end tenants such as Saks Fifth Avenue, Ralph Lauren, Cartier, and Escada; and many highly-acclaimed eateries.
Long-running store with clothing, supplies and gear for hiking, camping, climbing and other outdoor activities.
By train
Amtrak passenger train service to Phoenix has been discontinued, making it the largest city without Amtrak service in the US.
By car
There are 3 main routes that enter through Phoenix:
By bus
S. and from Nogales, Hermosillo, Puerto Peñasco and Culiacán in Mexico. Each company has a stop or its own bus station in different parts of town that are far from each other.
By e-scooter
The fastest and most comfortable way to get around downtown, especially in summer months when temperatures soar, is by e-scooter.
By car
The new Car Rental Facility for the Phoenix Airport is just west of the airport. National polls have shown that Phoenix is the 4th most expensive city in terms of surcharges in the nation.
By public transit
Valley Metro provides public transit for the entire Phoenix metro area, with an extensive bus and light rail system.
Choose an airport to see hotels, stations, taxi ranks and car rental desks around it.
Phoenix · International · PHX
Loading places around the airport…
Articles and travel topics about Phoenix and United States.
How to use the America the Beautiful pass, navigate timed-entry reservations and win hiking permits across America's top national parks.
7 min read
How to master the NYC subway with OMNY contactless pay, dodge airport transfer traps and explore iconic Manhattan and Brooklyn neighborhoods.
7 min read
How to plan the classic California Highway 1 road trip from San Francisco to Los Angeles, navigating Big Sur closures, coastal stops and vehicle tips.
6 min read
Splitting a city stay between two hotels can cut costs, save hours of travel and buy you a night of luxury. Here is how to do it well.
7 min read
Every section of the guide. Open one to read it in full.