Itineraries for Your Trip to Phoenix
1 Day in Phoenix for First Timers
Phoenix is a city that rewards early risers. My favorite trips here always begin with a sunrise hike—partly for the views, partly to beat the heat. With the Sonoran Desert at its doorstep and Scottsdale just minutes away, there’s no shortage of places to explore and things to do. If you only have one day in Phoenix, hit the highlights: a sunrise or sunset hike, a trip to Old Town Scottsdale, and a night out in Roosevelt Row, where the city’s creative side shines. And, don’t forget to grab a street taco, a Sonoran hot dog, or a perfectly mixed margarita, while you’re out exploring. Here’s a go-to itinerary for first-time visitors.
Phoenix is sunny year-round, but summer temperatures can hit triple digits. Plan hikes and outdoor activities early in the day.
If you only have time for one thing, make it a sunrise or sunset hike on Camelback Mountain for unbeatable desert views.
There’s no better way to start the day in Phoenix than floating high above the Sonoran Desert in a hot air balloon. Take off just before sunrise and watch the sky shift from deep purples and oranges to bright gold. After landing, celebrate with a Champagne toast. Other ways to explore the area before the temps heat up are with a challenging sunrise hike at Camelback Mountain or an ATV ride.
A quick 20-minute drive from Phoenix, Scottsdale is a must-visit. Explore Old Town Scottsdale on foot, by trolley, or even on a Segway, weaving through stylish shops, top-rated restaurants, and a vibrant art scene. Stroll through art galleries, browse Southwestern boutiques, or grab a margarita at a lively patio bar. Stop by the Desert Botanical Gardens in Papago Park, between Phoenix and Scottsdale, before or after exploring Old Town Scottsdale.
To cap off your day, head to Roosevelt Row, Phoenix’s arts district, for a lively night of indie shops, local bars, and historical saloons with a Wild West past. If you’re here on the first Friday of the month, the First Friday Art Walk is the place to be. Hop on a party bike and pedal your way through the downtown, stopping at bars and speakeasies along the way, or join a haunted pub ghost tour.
