Our Phoenix Bucket List is not just a checklist; it’s an invitation to explore the city limits of all that Greater Phoenix has to offer.
Whether you’re captivated by the Sonoran Desert, eager to try our regional cuisine, or seeking unique cultural experiences, Phoenix is undeniably the place to be.
Here are the things you absolutely have to check off your bucket list when you visit Greater Phoenix.
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1. Try a Sonoran Hot Dog
You can’t come to Phoenix without trying a Sonoran-style hot dog. We’re talking a grilled bacon-wrapped hot dog in a warm, soft bolillo bun, topped with pinto beans, sauteed onions, chopped tomatoes, and onions. We’re salivating just thinking about it.
2. Eat Fry Bread
Fry Bread has a long history in the Sonoran Desert and the many indigenous communities that call this land home. Try the sweet version for dessert or the tacos as a meal. The Tohono O’odham-owned Fry Bread House in Phoenix opened in 1992 and has served happy patrons since. In 2012, it was recognized by the James Beard Foundation and only five other restaurants as an “American Classic.”
3. See a Saguaro
The Sonoran Desert is peppered with Saguaros towering over the city. Our beloved thorny friends can reach up to 50 feet, with as many as 50 arms. For us, they’re as normal as breathing. To see the stunning Southwestern symbol up close, along with 4,000 other cactus species, visit the Desert Botanical Garden.
4. See the Calle 16 Mural Project
Driving around downtown Phoenix, you’ll see an explosion of mural-covered walls. To learn more about the history and connection between some of the murals, check out the Calle 16 project. Inspired by activism, Silvana Salcido Esparza, the James Beard nominee and chef of Barrio Cafe, started the Calle 16 project.
5. Bike along Tempe Town Lake
Take a leisurely stroll or bike ride along Tempe Town Lake and enjoy the stillness of Greater Phoenix. It’s a great people-watching spot! If you’re feeling adventurous, try paddleboarding or a boat ride along the lake.
Look out for celebrated poet and ASU English Professor Alberto Rios’s public art piece, which features his poems and images carved onto 600 granite tiles installed along the lake, culminating into a six-mile-long “book.”
6. Brunch at the Farm
The Farm at South Mountain is one of Phoenix’s hidden gems. Their farm-to-table dishes use freshly harvested vegetables, edible flowers, eggs, and herbs from the on-site garden. The gorgeous South Mountain backdrop doesn’t hurt either. Try an after-lunch hike at South Mountain or watch the sunset at Dobbins Lookout.
7. First Friday After Hours at the Phoenix Art Museum
First Friday in downtown Phoenix is a vibe. Over 14,000 people descend downtown every First Friday to catch a glimpse of the diverse and vibrant art scene. The Phoenix Art Museum ‘s After Hours event features free access to their exhibitions, unique art activations with local artists, performances, activities, and much more.
8. Visit Phoenix’s Gayborhood
The Melrose District is a 1-mile stretch home to some of the best antique shops, art, dining, patio cocktailing, and dance floors. Also known as “The Curve” for its winding nature in an otherwise grided city and the “gayborhood,” thanks to its high concentration of LGBTQ+ bars and rainbow flags perched outside allied businesses, this neighborhood is an absolute must for a sense of this city’s pride as well as its midcentury roots.
9. Shop local at Phoenix General
The Sonoran Desert has a distinct vibe, and it’s what inspires the clothing, gifts, housewares, and more of the offerings at this central Phoenix boutique shop. The two co-owners stock the store with handpicked, locally-made gifts that are ethically created and sustainably sourced.
10. Eat at Pizzeria Bianco in Heritage Square
Chef Chris Bianco’s artisanal wood-fired pizza joint started in the back corner of a grocery store in 1988. Fast forward to 2023—Bianco has been awarded two James Beard Awards and was recently featured on Netflix’s Chef’s Table: Pizza. The streaming platform dubbed him the “Coltrane of Pizza.” Try out one of Pizzeria Bianco’s most popular pies — featuring pistachio! — the Rosa.
11. Take home a one-of-a-kind Cosanti original
Take home a little slice of Arizona history with you. At Cosanti Originals, you will find handcrafted, one-of-a-kind wind bells, jewelry, hanging planters, and more made by artisans at Cosanti.
Arcosanti, an experimental town maintained by the Cosanti Foundation, is considered the world’s first prototype arcology. Arcology is an architectural concept created by famed Arizona architect Paolo Soleri, who founded Arcosanti, an experimental town, in 1970. It has since built a cult following for its unique take on architecture, environmentalism, and art. Designed to have a limited impact on the environment, Arcosanti integrates architecture design with respect to ecology. Tours and stays at Arcosanti are available.
12. Eat Nopalitos
Yes, edible cactus. Nopales have been dubbed a “superfood” for their many health benefits, including their antiviral, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties.
Lots of Phoenix spots offer unique nopalito dishes. Tacos Calafia serves nopales tacos, quesadillas, burritos, mulitas, and vampiros.
13. Eat Authentic Sonoran Tacos
Phoenix has become known for its authentic Sonoran Mexican cuisine. Hot spots like Taco Boys and Huarachis grill their meat over an open fire of mesquite charcoal, just like they do in Sonoran taquerias in Mexico. Try out Carne Asada, Tripa, Chicharron, Cabeza, or Lengua. Thankfully, both Taco Boys and Huarachis offer vegetarian options.
Sonoran cuisine is recognized for its simplicity. Sonoran food was influenced by the blending of European, Indigenous, and Mexican traditions, along with the geography and climate of the Sonoran Desert. As a cattle ranching and agricultural region, it’s no mistake that Sonora is believed to have the best Carne Asada in all of Mexico. In Sonora, your tacos will almost always be served with Sonoran-style flour tortillas. Beef and wheat are two staples you will find in nearly any Sonoran dish, along with other foods such as corn, beans, green or red chili, and chiltepin.
14. Hike up to Hole-in-the-Rock at Papago Park
If you want a cool Instagram shot for your feed or story, visit Papago Park’s Hole-in-the-Rock. You’ll be awed by a unique, unforgettable view of Phoenix. You’ll get lots of likes—guaranteed!
15. Attend a Cactus League game
Cactus League Spring Training is a seasonal rite that descends on the Greater Phoenix area every February and March with the iconic sounds of cracking bats, snapping mitts, and happy fans.
For baseball lovers, it doesn’t get much better than this: sunny weather, affordable tickets, and unparalleled proximity to the best players in the game.
16. Go tubing on the Salt River
You can’t come to Phoenix in the summer without tubing or kayaking on the Salt River. Bring your waterproof speakers, cooler, and friends for a memorable ride along the Salt River.
As if the beautiful scenery surrounding the Lower Salt River wasn’t enough, one of the most jaw-dropping sights found along an 18-mile stretch of the river are the wild horses who call the river home. The horses roam along the banks where many visitors kayak and tube and can easily be spotted along your route, depending on the time of day.
17. Watch the Sunset from Dobbins Lookout
Dobbins Lookout at South Mountain gives you the feeling you’re rubbing shoulders with the clouds. The view not only includes the Valley floor below, but a panoramic sweep that travels from the Estrella Mountains in the west to the Superstition Mountains in the east.
For some shade or quiet reflection, stroll over to the stone resthouse, a Flintones-esque structure built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s. This is one of the best places in Phoenix to watch a sunrise or sunset.
18. Have a cocktail at Century Grand
The Century Grand was named Best U.S. Cocktail Bar in the U.S. in the 2023 Spirited Awards. Century Grand features three turn-of-the-century unique bar concepts featuring immersive experiences, from a Presidential Pullman-inspired train car to a ship’s hull to a New Orleans-inspired apothecary.
19. Catch a live performance at the Van Buren
The Van Buren is housed inside the former Phoenix Motor Co. Building from the 1930s. In 2018, the Van Buren was added to the National Register of Historic Places. On any given night, local and touring acts such as Lil Wayne, 6LACK, and others light up the stage at the Van Buren.
20. Stay at the Global Ambassador
The Global Ambassador has been one of Phoenix’s most-hyped openings in recent memory. Designed by Sam Fox, the Valley restaurateur who’s created over 150+ restaurants, the Global Ambassador features five unique, globally-minded restaurant concepts. The newly constructed rooftop is the largest in Arizona. Make sure you dine at théa, the Mediterranean restaurant on the rooftop, where dinner comes with majestic views of Camelback Mountain.
21. Watch the Phoenix Mercury play
The Phoenix Mercury’s very own Diana Taurasi will argIndulge in a true taste of the city with The Phoenix cocktail, a signature drink that embodies the spirit of the desert. Crafted with ingredients inspired by the Sonoran Desert, this vibrant creation blends tequila, Chiltepines, mesquite honey syrup, fresh lemon juice, and prickly pear syrup, shaken and garnished with dehydrated lemon and peppers.
You can savor The Phoenix at many restaurants and bars at Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport, making it the perfect way to kick off or wind down your travels. It’s also available at select spots across Greater Phoenix, so you can raise a glass to the desert spirit wherever you are in the Valley. Cheers to a bucket list-worthy toast!
24. Show Off Your Phoenix Pride With Visit Phoenix Merch
No trip to Phoenix is complete without a little souvenir to remember your adventure. Visit Phoenix’s exclusive merchandise collection offers a range of items inspired by the city’s vibrant culture and stunning landscapes. From apparel to accessories, each piece is a nod to Phoenix’s unique charm, including designs celebrating the Salt River, Cactus League, and the Spring Superbloom. Whether you’re picking up a keepsake for yourself or a gift for someone special, Visit Phoenix’s merchandise lets you take home a piece of the desert spirit.
You can find these locally inspired items at Retail Therapy at the Phoenix Convention Center (PCC) and online. It’s the perfect way to remember your Phoenix bucket list adventure long after you’ve left the Valley.
25. Hike Camelback Mountain
For those seeking an exhilarating challenge, Camelback Mountain is a must-do on your Phoenix bucket list. With its rugged terrain and sweeping views of the Valley, it’s one of the most iconic hikes in the area. But be warned: this is an advanced hike, with steep sections and tough inclines, making it best suited for experienced hikers.
Before you head out, remember to practice heat safety—especially during the warmer months. Wear sun protection, take breaks, and most importantly, bring plenty of water. The reward at the top is well worth the effort, offering panoramic views of Phoenix and the surrounding desert landscape.
