Epic One Day in Phoenix Itinerary for First-Timers

Looking to make the most of your day trip to Phoenix?

After road-tripping through North Arizona and Sedona, the natural next place to visit is the state capital, Phoenix, the 5th most populous city in the United States. Based on my personal favorite activities when I visited, I’ve put together a one day in Phoenix itinerary that will especially be useful if it’s your first time in town.

I spent a couple of days here, driving through different neighborhoods and parks, but the city is so overwhelmingly large that a Phoenix day trip is not really enough time.

But let’s work with what we’ve got, just make sure to include a tour of Frank Lloyd Wright’s Taliesin West and an evening hike up Piestew Peak. I’ll also suggest more places to visit if you have extra time.

Sample One Day in Phoenix Itinerary

Here’s a packed day trip itinerary for you to have everything conveniently in one scroll. And if you’re trying to get a lay of the land, this half-day guided tour covers many of the spots on this itinerary.

Early Morning:

• If you’re up for an early wake-up, go for a tiny hike up Papago Park’s Hole-In-The-Rock trail.
• In the same park, head to Desert Botanical Garden.
• Alternatively: You can also start your day with a balloon ride at sunrise (Click here to book).

Mid-Morning:

• I’m a huge Frank Lloyd Wright fan, so a visit to Taliesin West was a must for me. But it is far north, and their guided tours are quite expensive. Note: They only have guided tours from 10 am, with the last starting at 1:20 pm, then officially closing at 5pm.

Early Afternoon:

• Get a feel of contrasts walking through Old Town Scottsdale to Fashion Square across the river.
• Optional: Wonderspaces (in Fashion Square) is one of my favorite immersive art x tech collectives.

Afternoon: 

• Head to downtown Phoenix for more museums and artwork.
• Check out the Roosevelt Row Arts District for street art, local galleries, and trendy bars.
• Eat at The Churchill for food court-style dining and artisan pop-ups.

Evening:

• See the entire horizon twinkling at the top of Piestewa Peak in the Phoenix Mountain Preserve. Note: The trail is quite steep and more challenging at night, in case you prefer having a guide here.

Recommended Places to Stay in Phoenix: Downtown

• 📍Luxury: Kimpton Hotel Palomar Phoenix Cityscape
• 📍Mid-Range: Found Re Phoenix
• 📍Budget: Cambria Hotel Downtown Phoenix

Quick Facts to Visiting Phoenix

I was surprised when I found out that Phoenix was the fifth-largest city in the US. But once you experience driving through it, you’d believe it! With over 300 days of sunshine per year, this sun-soaked desert metropolis was actually once the floor of a shallow sea approximately 1.8 billion years ago. Totally a desert city now. 

Quick Facts About Phoenix	Details
Location	South-central Arizona, USA
Best Time to Visit	November through April, when the weather is not burning
Where to Stay	Downtown Phoenix or Scottsdale
Best Hotels	📍Luxury: Kimpton Hotel Palomar Phoenix Cityscape 📍Mid-Range: Found Re Phoenix 📍Budget: Cambria Hotel Downtown Phoenix
Famous For	Desert Botanical Garden, Camelback Mountain Hiking, RoRo street arts scene, golfing
Population	Approx. 1.7 million (2020)
Time Zone	Mountain Standard Time (MST), no daylight saving time observed
How to Get Around	Public transportation (Valley Metro), rideshare services, bike rentals, but mostly I recommend having a car. Use DiscoverCars to find rental car deals.
City Airports	Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (3 miles from downtown) Use Expedia to find the best flight prices.
Don’t Forget!	A Phoenix City Pass gets you access to top attractions with massive discounts. Also, consider getting a National Park Annual Pass if you plan to go to surrounding national parks like the Grand Canyon or Petrified Forest.

What to Do in Phoenix in One Day

Early Morning: Papago Park

Papago Park is a good place to start if you’re up for early mornings. The famous hike there is short, and the botanical garden opens early at 8 am, so it doesn’t cut into your other activities. 

Hole-In-The-Rock Trail

The Hole-In-The-Rock Trail is a beloved local gem of Phoenix. This short, relatively easy hike gets you views of the city and surrounding desert. Despite being only 0.3 miles long, it’s a nice hike with a slight elevation change of just around 200 feet. 

The trail leads you to a large sandstone hill with a hole in it. It’s more like a natural window carved out by the elements over thousands of years. This ‘window’ is the perfect framing for your sunrise photos! 

Because of its accessibility, it can get a bit crowded, especially during sunrise and sunset.

Desert Botanical Garden

Right around the corner, the Desert Botanical Garden features a 140-acre wonderland of over 50,000 plants across five thematic trails. These plants represent a broad spectrum of desert plants, including agave, cacti, and numerous species native to deserts worldwide. Of course, you’ll get to see the giant saguaro cactus, the symbol of the American Southwest.

Aside from walking along the plant-laden trails, you can view the glass artwork installations by Dale Chihuly or pay a visit to the Butterfly Pavilion. If you happen to be around in the evening, the garden paths are lit with luminaria bags, and live music performances are part of the garden’s seasonal events.

Over the City Balloon Ride at Sunrise

If you’re up for something a bit fancier, how about kickstarting your day with a hot air balloon ride over Phoenix at sunrise? Despite being in the Sonoran Desert, Phoenix is actually built around hills and mountains, making it an interesting cityscape to see from up above.

After about an hour of flying, you’ll descend and have a classic champagne toast to celebrate your safe landing, a ballooning tradition since the 18th century. This experience usually includes a fancy breakfast served in the desert.

It’s a bit pricey, but this is a dang popular activity and the incredible views make it a worthy splurge. 

Mid-Day: Best Things to Do in Scottsdale

Technically not in Phoenix, you could spend an entire day just in Scottsdale, hitting its various highlights and swinging at golf courses. As we only have one day, here are some places I recommend checking out.

Taliesin West

A quite far drive up north, Taliesin West is probably the most famous of Frank Lloyd Wright’s works. The winter home and studio of the legendary architect have been converted into a museum where you can peek into his and his student’s lives. It’s literally now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a national historic landmark. 

Wright believed in harmonious living with the environment, which is evident in his seamless integration of indoor and outdoor spaces. Drawing inspiration from local materials and the natural landscape, he created innovative building designs using materials found in the local desert. 

There are several tours to choose from, each highlighting different aspects of Wright’s life and work. Personally, I went with the 90-minute guided tour, and it really brought the architecture to life. 

However, if you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, there’s also a 60-minute audio tour that you just connect to your phone. Also, if you’re a student, ask for the discounted tickets! 

Book your tour in advance here, as they tend to sell out quickly. 

Old Town Scottsdale

Old Town Scottsdale takes you back in time with its Western-themed historic district that combines modern amenities and old-world authenticity. This part of town preserves its history with brick sidewalks, old-fashioned streetlights, and rustic storefronts while having trendy shops and art galleries.

The unique shops have everything from Native American crafts and Southwestern art to fashionable clothing and jewelry. The famous Old Town Candy & Toys has nostalgic sweets and cool toys.

The Scottsdale Arts District is renowned for its high concentration of galleries. If you happen to go on a Thursday evening, the galleries host the weekly ArtWalk event with public art displays, artist demonstrations, and live music.

Old Town Scottsdale also hosts the city’s largest farmers market every Saturday.

Fashion Square

This upscale shopping center with over 200 stores makes it one of the largest malls in the Southwest. And it is just across the street from Old Town Scottsdale, a huge contrast. 

Between them is a really nicely built-up river that divides them. There was an art event on the night we went, so the entire riverside was filled with neon sculptures and artsy mist portals.

The Fashion Square is a great place to treat yourself to a gourmet meal at one of the high-end restaurants like Ocean 44 or Toca Madera.

Wonderspaces Arizona

If you’re familiar with Meowwolf, Wonderspaces follows a similar concept. Let me start by saying that if you’re into interactive technology art, Wonderspaces never fails to impress. I’ve been to the Austin location twice.

The artwork is incredibly creative, and they have a rotating selection of extraordinary installations, so it’s always a different experience. The exhibits are usually changed every few months.

Plus, there’s a bar and lounge area to grab a drink, relax, and discuss the amazing art you’ve just seen.

Afternoon: Best Things to Do in Phoenix

Choose your Pick of Premier Museums

Phoenix is home to several top-rated museums that cater to different interests. The ones I included in the itinerary above are the ones I find the most interesting, but here are a few options closer to the downtown area: 

First on the list is the Heard Museum. Renowned for its extensive collection of Native American art, the Heard Museum is a deep dive into the cultures of the indigenous peoples of the Southwest.

The Musical Instrument Museum showcases over 7000 instruments from around the globe. You can hear, see, and even play some of the instruments here.

Mark Phoenix Art Museum for a diverse collection spanning different eras, mediums, and cultures.

Visit the Arizona Science Center for hundreds of interactive exhibits about the human body, journey through the farthest reaches of outer space, or feel what a simulated monsoon is like.

Then a bit outside town in nearby Tempe, the Center of the Arts (pictured below)

Roosevelt Row Arts District

Roosevelt Row Arts District, or RoRo, is known for its colorful murals, art galleries, and monthly art walks, which turn the area into a street festival. This is my favorite part of downtown, and I had a blast watching graffiti artists putting up new work. 

Aside from outdoor murals, art boutiques and galleries line the streets. And the district has many trendy eateries and breweries.

The area is quite large, so join a local guide to find the best artworks.

Everyone, from artists to local businesses, comes together to celebrate creativity and community during the First Fridays Art Walk. This event, held on the first Friday of every month, is the country’s largest self-guided public art event.

A Stroll Through the University of Arizona Campus

The university is basically downtown. You can walk through the main campus, but around the area are also places like the University of Arizona Museum of Art and the university’s Arizona Stadium. 

If you’re interested in the wonders of outer space, there’s the Flandrau Science Center & Planetarium or the UA Campus Arboretum, which houses a diverse collection of trees.

Her Secret is Patience

I came into downtown downtown basically to check out this art piece. Resembling a floating, luminescent jellyfish in the desert sky, Her Secret is Patience is a public art installation. Inspired by a quote from Ralph Waldo Emerson, it’s a tribute to the beauty of patience and the enigma of time.

Suspended 100 feet above the Civic Space Park, this piece of art is illuminated at night by colorful LED lights and shifting patterns.

Verdict: It’s cool, but I shouldn’t have driven out of my way for it. I would’ve spent more time in the arts district.

Evening Hike: Piestewa Peak

This is by far the most memorable thing I did in Phoenix. Even though it’s more challenging at night, I wouldn’t exchange the nighttime view for any other time. Plus, you’re not under the unshaded desert heat. 

If you’re a hiker, go for a night hike at Piestewa Peak. Just do it. Situated within the Phoenix Mountains Preserve, Piestewa Peak is the second-highest point in the Phoenix Mountains, commanding an elevation of 2,610 feet.

The trail is about 1.2 miles long each way, with a climb of 1,200 feet in elevation. It was pretty steep the whole way. But you’ll have panoramic views of the Valley of the Sun at the peak. And at night, the entire city twinkles with lights all below you and the stars above you.

Although it’s a popular trail, we barely ran into anyone on a weekday night. Although I went post-dinner, I think timing your hike to reach the peak around sunset would also be stunning.

Where to Stay in Phoenix

Downtown Phoenix and Old Town Scottsdale are my top neighborhood recommendations to stay in. Scottsdale has more of an affluent vibe, with a great art scene and proximity to outdoor activities. Downtown Phoenix has more nightlife and easy access to artistic venues and sporting events. Otherwise, Tempe, Glendale, Biltmore, and Paradise Valley are other good and safe neighborhoods to stay in.

Best Hotels in Downtown Phoenix

Hotel Name	Benefits
📍Luxury: Kimpton Hotel Palomar Phoenix Cityscape	– Rooftop pool and lounge with city views – Stylish rooms with modern amenities – Complimentary evening social hour – On-site fitness center and spa services
📍Mid-Range: Found Re Phoenix	– Unique art-themed hotel featuring local artists – Spacious rooms with boutique touches – On-site restaurant serving locally sourced cuisine – Walking distance to the Roosevelt Row Arts District
📍Budget: Cambria Hotel Downtown Phoenix	– On-site restaurant and rooftop bar – Modern rooms with smart TVs – Close to the Convention Center and Chase Field – Fitness center and outdoor pool

Places to Visit with More Time

Other Things to Do in Phoenix

• South Mountain Park and Preserve: One of the largest urban parks in North America, it has breathtaking views of the skyline. 
• Phoenix Zoo: Known as one of the nation’s top 5 zoos for kids, it features interactive exhibits and close encounters with diverse animals.
• Arizona Capitol Museum: This museum focuses on Arizona’s government and political history.
• Chase Field: Home to the Arizona Diamondbacks, it’s the first stadium in the United States with a retractable roof over a natural grass playing surface.
• Arizona Biltmore Hotel: A historic resort known for its distinctive architecture, it’s often called the “Jewel of the Desert.”
• Scottsdale’s Museum of the West: This museum showcases the culture and history of the American West.
• Camelback Mountains: Consisting of two peaks, this mountain is a popular spot for hiking, rock climbing, and cityscapes. 
• Japanese Friendship Garden: An Asian-style garden with a tea house, koi pond, and traditional Japanese plants.
• Dobbins Lookout: The summit of South Mountain for amazing views

Day Trips from Phoenix

• Bartlett Lake (1+ hour): A peaceful lake for boating and water fun.
• Saguaro National Park (1.5 hours): An iconic desert landscape filled with the nation’s largest cacti.
• Tucson (1.5 hours): Home to Saguaro National Park and Tucson Mountain Park, they also have Sonoran-specific food and some cool air-related museums.
• Sedona (2 hours): Famous for its red rock formations, spiritual vortexes, and energetic arts scene.
• Montezuma Castle National Monument (2 hours): Well-preserves ancient Native American dwellings.
• Jerome (2 hours): A ghost town now a haven for artists.
• Flagstaff (3 hours): Gateway to the Grand Canyon with a cute downtown area in the Coconino National Forest.
• Grand Canyon South Rim (3.5 hours): Need I say more? It’s an American icon.
• Petrified Forest National Park (3.5 hours): Find landscapes with colorful petrified wood and geological features. 
• Page (4+ hours): Explore Antelope Canyon, Horseshoe Bend, and Lake Powell.

Is 1 Day Enough for Phoenix

While it’s possible to scratch the surface of what Phoenix has to offer in a single day, this city is physically too big to call it after a day. The itinerary I laid out above is a rush, with lots of driving, and may feel rushed.

Additional days can be spent slowing down the pace, visiting more museums, attending sporting events, or going for day trips at nearby national parks.

Best Time To Visit

Phoenix is warm and sunny throughout the year, making it attractive, especially as a winter getaway. The best seasons to visit are winter (December to February) and spring (March to May). Temperatures are great for outdoor pursuits such as hiking and discovering the art scene. Spring brings slightly warmer temperatures but remains comfortable and has the added beauty of blooming desert flowers.

On the other hand, summer (June to August) can be extremely hot, with temperatures often exceeding 100°F. If you can handle the heat, this season sees fewer crowds and lower hotel rates.

How to Get Here

Phoenix is easily accessible from anywhere. 

By Air: Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) is the primary airport and one of the busiest airports in the nation. From the airport, downtown is only a 10-minute drive away. 

I’ve actually found it to have some of the cheapest domestic flights in the country. Score the best flight prices using Expedia.

By Road: the Phoenix area is well-connected by a network of interstate highways. If you’re coming from the West Coast, Los Angeles is about a 6-hour drive on the I-10 East. From the east, Tucson is just a 2-hour drive on the I-10 West. If you’re driving from the north, Las Vegas is about a 4.5-hour drive on the US-93 South.

Once you’re in the city of Phoenix, rent a car if you don’t have one. Find great rental car deals with DiscoverCars. Otherwise, the public transportation system includes buses and light rail, but it will only reach some attractions and hiking spots.

Final Thoughts: 24 Hours in Phoenix

I think you’ll be pleasantly surprised by this sun-soaked city. There are certainly a lot of popular attractions to add to this day itinerary, including being surrounded by hiking trails right in the town and having lots of unique museums. 

If you’re up for more adventures in the Grand Canyon state, check out our other Arizona guides below.

Don’t close that tab just yet…Where to Next in Arizona?

Arizona is amongst my top favorite places in the world. I’ve vanlifed around and through this great state back and forth, north and south, multiple times on my road trips. If you’re looking for more itineraries on Arizona, check out these other destinations.

• Perfect One Day In Petrified Forest National Park Itinerary
• One Day in Saguaro National Park Itinerary for First-Timers
• One Day in Grand Canyon South Rim: First-Timers Itinerary

MY FAVORITE TRAVEL RESOURCES

✈️ Find amazing guided tours and experiences with Viator to maximize your time! 🏘️ Plan ahead and secure your accommodation with Booking.com in advance. 🧾 Rent a car with Discovercars in advance and get the best prices for your day trip adventures.