Phoenix

Scottsdale

Scottsdale/Phoenix

Don't spend all of your valuable free time researching what to do in Arizona! We have done it for you!

After our own research, suggestions from the locals, and 42 days in the state, we have compiled this guide of the best camping spots, things to do, and what to look out for while you explore the state!

The information in this guide is the direct correlation of our roadtrip through Arizona from North to South. (If your route will be different, this guide may be more useful in map mode)

If you've been looking for the best of Arizona, you have arrived.  

Flagstaff

Willcox

Tombstone

Prescott

Wickenburg

Page

Cottonwood

Rimrock

McNeal

Jerome

Grand Canyon Village

Lake Pleasant

Tucson

Arizona Road Trip!!!

Have you ever wanted to check out all that Phoenix has to offer? It's become a popular destination for Bach weekends thanks to the sunshine-filled days and access to bars, golf, trails, pools, sports, and more! 

As a Phoenician, I've put together this guide to highlight some must-see spots. These suggestions feature mostly 21+ establishments, but include a wide range of atmospheres for any mood.

Enjoy recommendations for food, drink, and fun activities for everyone on your trip.

City Guide: Phoenix, AZ

Paradise Valley

Scottsdale, Arizona

Craving sunshine, cacti, and endless adventure? Look no further than Scottsdale, Arizona! This vibrant desert city offers the perfect blend of outdoor thrills, cultural gems, and luxurious pampering.  Forget the winter blues – Scottsdale explodes with life year-round, but there's something truly special about the desert when the sun gets a little warmer and the cacti burst into bloom. 

In this guide I'll cover the top 11 things to do, popular hotels, and tips to make your trip memorable.

Buckle up, because we're about to unveil the magic of Scottsdale!

Phoenix, AZ, USA

Scottsdale, AZ, USA

Camelback Mountain, Phoenix, AZ, USA

The 11 Best Things to do in Scottsdale, Arizona

Welcome to my completely unorganized but oh-so-helpful map of Phoenix and Scottsdale! An absolute smorgasbord of my own travels and research, suggestions from friends and strangers, and many treasures found along the way, this is where I compile all things Phoenix for my future trips and yours. Things I particularly love that you’ll find a lot of:
☕️ Coffee shops & bakeries
🌮 Local cuisine
🏛️ Museums of all kinds
🌳 Gardens & parks
🛏️ Boutique hotels
🍕 Small regional chains with good reputations

All my guides in this category are $5 per 100 places included, but since I add to these constantly, you can lock down the lowest price today and gain a lifetime access!

6.75h from Albuquerque, 4.75h from Las Vegas, 4.5h from Joshua Tree, 5.5h from San Diego, 5.5h from Anaheim, 3.5h from the Grand Canyon

Foodie city Suggestion from The Discoverer, good for Native American and Mexican influence.

Arizona, USA

Phoenix / Scottsdale AZ

Explore Arizona Outdoors: Best Hikes, Parks, and Adventures in Phoenix, Tucson, Flagstaff, Sedona, and the Grand Canyon. 

This Ultimate Arizona guide is the accumulation of spending 8 weeks living in the state and hours of planning and research. It includes an interactive map, directions of where to find hikes, 50 stops and things to do, hiking and restaurants and coffee shops we loved in each town. This is a mobile friendly itinerary so you can use it throughout your trip in real time. We recommend using it for whatever duration of time you're in each city. 

Based on our exploration of Arizona this year, we've compiled a comprehensive guide infused with our experiences and insights, including the mishaps and lessons learned along the way. What makes this guide truly unique is its live updates feature. As we prepare for another adventure in Arizona this winter, you'll gain immediate access to our latest discoveries and tips. 

With lifetime access and continuous updates, this guide ensures you're always equipped with the most up-to-date information, whenever and wherever you need it."

Take what you need for each city in this guide for a guaranteed amazing set of experiences and vistas! 

Tag us in the photos you take - we'd love to see your experience! @evrexploring

Sedona, AZ, USA

Grand Canyon, Arizona, USA

Flagstaff, AZ, USA

Cottonwood, AZ, USA

Tucson, AZ, USA

Nature Lover’s Guide to Arizona

This guide outlines a 3-day itinerary for exploring the natural wonders and vibrant cities of Arizona!

Arizona Road Trip

A quick Arizona road trip itinerary featuring adventure in Grand Canyon National Park, Flagstaff, and relaxation in Scottsdale! 🌵

The best places to stay and spots to visit are included in this itinerary! 

Grand Canyon, Flagstaff & Scottsdale Road Trip |  Itinerary 

If you want to discover other beautiful locations besides the ever-popular Grand Canyon, take a tour around Scottsdale and surrounding areas for unique eateries, and immerse yourself in natural plant and animal wildlife. 

Surprise, AZ, USA

Glendale, AZ, USA

Your Next Trip: Arizona aka the Copper State.

Baseball Spring Training! This is a great opportunity to get out and see your favorite team play in beautiful Arizona. This was also a girls’ trip my best friend and I, who happens to be a Giants fan. Luckily, their home spring training facility is in Scottsdale. This was a perfect mix of entertainment and relaxation, with sun, sports and a spa trip.

This guide includes:
- 6 sightseeing/activity recommendations
- 3 hotel recommendations
- 13 restaurant recommendations
- 3 spa recommendations

3 Days | Scottsdale, AZ🌵🏜️ 

I was fortunate enough to have a bother who lived in Phoenix for 4 years. & during those 4 years I made sure to go out to visit him every chance I got. Each time I visited, it was always an adventure filled with so many amazing experiences. In this guide, I have compiled my favorite places that I've checked out, for you to have a fantastic Road Trip Around Arizona. My favorite time to visit Arizona would be at the end of May beginning of June.  

Road Trippin' Around Arizona

Embark on an unforgettable girls’ getaway in the vibrant heart of the desert! Immerse yourselves in the relaxing energy of Phoenix and the chic allure of Scottsdale. From spa retreats and hiking to stylish dining and nightlife, discover the perfect blend of relaxation and excitement under the Arizona sun.

This travel guide will unveil a tapestry of experiences in Phoenix and Scottsdale. Explore iconic landmarks like the Desert Botanical Garden, indulge in the luxury of renowned spas, and savor culinary delights at trendy restaurants. Dive into outdoor adventures with hiking in Camelback Mountain or enjoy a leisurely stroll through Old Town Scottsdale’s art district. Embrace the vibrant nightlife, and let this travel guide lead you to hidden gems for an unparalleled girls’ trip. ✨ 

P.S. I recommend staying in Scottsdale if you want to be close to the nightlife, shops, winerys, restaurants, etc. and driving to Phoenix for the hiking, spas, and other nature/relaxing type of vibes! Plus Scottsdale has a lot more Airbnb options. 😉 


Phoenix/Scottsdale, Arizona Girls Trip 👩🏽‍🤝‍👩🏾☀️

This guide is all about the Phoenix, Arizona Area. 

Phoenix anchors a sprawling, multi-city metropolitan area known as the Valley of the Sun surrounded by a beautiful desert and mountain landscape.  

Phoenix is known for its year-round sun, warm temperatures, high-end spas, and world class golf courses. 

We visited this area with my family for the Waste Management Open and had a wonderful time. 

Trip Highlights: 
⭐️ Waste Management Open 
⭐️ We-Ko-Pa Golf Course
⭐️ Horseback Riding
⭐️ Spa at the Fairmont Princess Resort 
⭐️ Lunch at Cocina Madrigal 
⭐️ Dinner at Bourbon & Bones

Phoenix, Arizona Area

Desert Botanical Garden

Very nice Botanical Garden featuring all the plants from the Arizona desert landscape.

For us, who have spent a lot of time in the desert, the park was a bit underwhelming. But if you haven't had a lot of time in the desert, you will really enjoy this garden!

Keep a look out for the butterflies and humingbirds, and if you need a snack or drink, stop by the restraunt! It looked fancy!

If you get the chance, come here at sunset. We heard that's when all the magic happens!

$24.95 per person

Immerse yourself in the stunning beauty of 50,000 desert plants at Desert Botanical Garden. Cacti, succulents, and wildflowers burst with color against the backdrop of the red Papago Buttes. This Arizona icon has been around for 80 years, and it's not just a pretty face. They're a leader in desert conservation, with trails to explore, world-class exhibits, fun events, and classes to teach you all about the desert's unique plants. It's a must-see for any visitor!

The Desert Botanical Garden in Arizona is a captivating oasis nestled within the arid landscapes of the Sonoran Desert. Spanning over 140 acres, this botanical garden is renowned for its stunning collection of desert flora, showcasing the incredible diversity and resilience of plants adapted to desert climates.

This was a surprisingly beautiful location. The Desert Botanical Garden is home to a vast collection of extraordinary plant life PLUS a museum and butterfly center. Take a break and enjoy the garden! Oh! Plently of places to get a great view!

Suggestion from The Discoverer. Flashlight tours available to see night-blooming plants. Luminaries at Christmas. Open 7am-8pm daily. $17 admission, free for ages 2 & under. Free on the second Tuesday of the month! AHS reciprocal admission.

Desert Botanical Garden is home to thousands of species of cactus, trees and flowers from all around the world! Be sure to checkout the butterfly exhibit 

Located between the Phoenix Airport and Scottsdale, this is a good outing to stretch your legs after your flight.

Desert Botanical Garden

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