Phoenix tours, sightseeing, things to do

Phoenix

Trip Planning & Itineraries

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Newcomers to Phoenix may well believe that their goose is cooked. Let there be no mistake, Phoenix is a place in the sun. Reveling in more than 300 days of sunshine a year, the city is searing hot in summer but perfect in winter and spring, a haven for "snow birds" seeking refuge from chilly northern climes.

Although it's the largest city in the southwest, Phoenix's greatest attraction is the land that surrounds it: a vast expanse of untamed desert. It's a modern city, with an active arts scene, major museums, excellent restaurants, nonstop nightlife and superlative shopping. And as the capital of Arizona, the Grand Canyon state, it's the launching pad of choice for Grand Canyon adventures.

Best of Phoenix: Top 3 Must-Do Experiences

Best of Phoenix: Suggested Itineraries

Phoenix is the perfect base for your Grand Canyon and desert adventures. From land tours to heart-in-your-mouth aerial sightseeing, we've got the best of Phoenix and Arizona covered. Get even more ideas with NileGuide's trip planner & travel guide.

Day 1: Phoenix in your pocket

Phoenix Day Trips

Get to know downtown Phoenix and the Valley Area on an afternoon tour, taking in the State Capitol, Camelback Mountain, the Wrigley Mansion, the saloons and shops of the Old Town area, and Scottsdale. Or give your credit card a workout on the fashion outlets tour, with temptations galore at Nike, Guess, Gap and Tommy Hilfiger. If time is tight, but you have three hours to spare, don't miss the chance to take an impossibly scenic Grand Canyon aerial tour. And as night falls, ride a Hummer into the neighboring Sonoran Desert to see the nocturnal desert creatures in action.

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Day 2: Grand Canyon Tours

Grand Canyon Tours from Phoenix

Phoenix may be famous for its wintertime sunshine but the city's proximity to the Grand Canyon is hard to beat. From day tours and flights to multi-day explorations, there are all kinds of ways to experience one of Mother Nature's most spectacular wonders. Perhaps the best way to sightsee is by air and ground on the Grand Canyon Helicopter Adventure, sending you flying over the deepest rim and on a scenic drive around the canyon. Or combine a West Rim heli flight with a stroll on the breathtaking Skywalk. Pace yourself and spend extra time at the Grand Canyon on a two-day adventure.

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Day 3: Other Phoenix Day Trips

More Phoenix Multi-Day Trips

The Grand Canyon isn't the only don't-miss attraction on Phoenix's doorstep. A driving tour to the Grand Canyon takes you through the Sonoran Desert to the red rock country of Sedona and to visit a Navajo Reservation. Soar across most of Arizona on a spectacular Monument Valley air and Jeep tour. Follow the Apache Trail through the legendary Superstitious Mountains and cruise Canyon Lake aboard a steamboat. Ride the Verde Canyon Train past desert cliffs and canyons. Or see and do it all on a three-day rail and road tour aboard the historic Grand Canyon Railroad.

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Best of Phoenix: Top 3 Hotels

Phoenix's high season runs from late winter to spring, and prices are often dramatically slashed in the long hot summer. Thinking about renting? Save money on your Phoenix vacation on HomeAway.com. Or browse hotels in Phoenix at Uptake.com.

Sanctuary on Camelback Mountain

Sanctuary on Camelback Mountain

Feel like a splurge? Indulge in an Asian-inspired spa treatment, or go for a dip in one of three pools at this luxury boutique hideaway with spectacular Paradise Valley views. The resort's casitas make the most of the spectacular mountainside setting with outdoor balconies, wood-burning fireplaces and private outdoor soaking tubs.

Royal Palms Resort and Spa

Royal Palms Resort and Spa

Spanish/Mediterranean-inspired decor and ambiance gel nicely with the luxurious spa and resort feel. Exotic palms, cacti, citrus trees and flowering shrubs create a romantic vibe, and the rooms and casitas are chock-a-block with European antiques and artifacts.

Arizona Biltmore

Arizona Biltmore

Unwind at the unique Frank Lloyd Wright-inspired Biltmore, a restful oasis of lush gardens, glistening swimming pools, and classic 1920s architecture. Set in the heart of Phoenix, you'll feel right at home at the Arizona Biltmore, a favorite of celebrities and US presidents throughout its colorful history.

Phoenix: featured traveler photos
Red Rock

Photo by: Alvin S, South Africa

Doing what: Grand Canyon Helicopter Adventure

Phoenix Hot Air Balloon Ride
Phoenix Hot Air Balloon Ride Phoenix Hot Air Balloon Ride From USD $174.99

A hot-air balloon ride over Phoenix is an exhilarating experience, whether at sunrise or sunset. After your flight, enjoy a champagne breakfast or gourmet picnic for the perfect start or finish to your day.

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