Why Now Is the Best Time to Visit America’s Sunniest City with Over 300 Days of Sunshine

Planning a getaway to the capital with the fieriest desert sunsets all-year round, but not sure when to go? 

During my 5 month vanlife journey, I arrived in this sun-soaked city in November, described by locals as the golden period. The days were warm enough for tank tops, yet not scorching to melt my solar panels on the roof.

Phoenix’s weather swings from sizzling summers to mild, almost perfect winters. So, here’s a quick look at the best time to visit Phoenix:

• Best Season: November to April
• Peak Season: Late fall and early spring
• Off-Peak Season: June to September

So, let’s take a look at the weather during each of these seasons and what events you can look forward to. Whether you’re here for a quick Phoenix day trip or planning a longer escapade, these months promise the best the city has to offer without the need to constantly seek shade.

Best Time to Visit Phoenix

Best Time of Year to Visit

The prime time to pack your bags for Phoenix is definitely November through April. This period sidesteps the notorious heatwaves, where sunlit days and cool evenings pair perfectly with hiking the city mountains or catching out the street murals in Roosevelt Row.

Best Time for Good Weather

For the absolute best weather in Phoenix, aim for March to April. You’ll have sunny days with temperatures comfortably between 70°F and 85°F, so you won’t melt. Plus, you’ll avoid the occasional rain showers from January to February.

Best Time to Avoid Crowds

The best time to visit for the smallest crowds is definitely mid-January to early March, between post-holidays and the spring break madness. I went in November, and I would also say pre-holidays, you also still have great weather, and it’s not too crowded.

Cheapest Time to Visit

Due to the extreme heat, the cheapest time in the city is from June to August. Sure, it might be an oven, but you may snag hotel rates that are nearly 50% off-peak times, and you’ll find deals on meals and attractions.

Worst Time to Visit Phoenix

The worst time to visit Phoenix is undoubtedly June through August. Temperatures soar to the triple digits. Outdoor activities become a challenge, and even the locals seek refuge indoors or flee town for cooler climates.

Seasons of Phoenix

Spring (March to May)

Spring in Phoenix has perfect weather and pretty blossoming cacti. Temperatures hover around the sweet 70s to the mid-80s, which is pretty much perfect for any outdoor shenanigans you’ve got planned. The desert may not be synonymous with blooms, but take a hike through the Desert Botanical Garden, and you’ll see what I mean. 

Rooftop bars and patios fill up, and the events calendar gets packed, from outdoor concerts to festivals celebrating everything from food to local culture.

Spring in Phoenix comes with a bit of a price spike, especially in March during spring break. Accommodation prices can jump, so it pays to book early or seek out those hidden gems a bit off the beaten path. 

Key Events: 

• 27th Annual Greater Phoenix Jewish Film Festival (March): Catch the tail end of this cultural feast showcasing Jewish life, culture, and history through film. It’s like a world tour without the jet lag.
• Artlink’s Art Detour (March): This event turns the city into a massive art gallery.
• Arizona Renaissance Festival (Through March): Dress up for a time when eating whole Turkey legs and jousting was considered normal. 
• Rainbows Festival (March): Celebrate diversity and community at this festival all about love.
• Annual Ostrich Festival (March): This is actually on my bucket list—ostrich races. Plus, there will be music, dance, and food. It’s quirky, fun, and something you’ll talk about for years.
• Tempe Fall Festival of the Arts (March): Tempe’s streets come alive with artwork, crafts, and live performances.
• Country Thunder Music Festival (April): Dust off your cowboy boots and enjoy some of the biggest names in country music.
• Junk in the Trunk Vintage Market (April): Treasures await at this eclectic market.
• Phoenix Fan Fusion (May): Geeks, nerds, and fans of pop culture can find all kinds of comics, movies, or cosplay here.

Summer (June to August)

Summer in Phoenix is not for the faint-hearted or those allergic to sweating. Between June and August, average daytime temps hover around 104°F. But at least it’s dry heat, right? So, it’s not sticky humidity. Instead, you get the kind of heat that feels like opening an oven door every single time you step outside.

But there are always upsides. First up, fewer crowds. With most folks trying to escape the heat, popular spots are less crowded. Go for early mornings for any outdoor activities. Nighttime rooftop bars, nighttime pool parties, and outdoor concerts start up. 

Plus, summer is the season of deals and discounts. Hotels drop their rates significantly, and local restaurants and attractions run promotions.

Key Events: 

• Made in the Shade Beer Tasting Festival (June): Escape the scorching sun and step into the shade for this refreshing event with endless beer samples from craft breweries. 
• Tilted Earth Wine and Music Festival (June): This festival is a classy combo of fine wines, live music, and stunning sunset views.
• Annual Arizona Lavender Festival (June): You’re in the desert, but you can still find some lavender fields. Learn how to cook with these flowers paired with wine and cheese.
• Scottsdale Beer Fest (July): Because one beer festival in the summer just isn’t enough. Scottsdale has its own celebration of craft beer with a wide selection of brews on tap.

Fall (September to November)

In fall, the heat is suddenly all bearable again. Daytime temperatures start to dip back into the comfortable 80s°F, so you can finally go outdoors again.

The festival scene kicks into high gear in October when the Arizona State Fair rolls into town. Eat all the deep-fried treats, go on the adrenaline-pumping rides, and see livestock exhibits.

Restaurants across the city dust off their outdoor seating areas, brunching at noon or enjoying a sunset dinner with views of Camelback Mountain.

Key Events:  

• Arizona State Fair (September-October): Your excuse to surrender to all the deep-fried treats your heart desires, scream your lungs out on rides, and win that oversized teddy bear.
• Boo Fest (October): Hosted by the Phoenix Parks and Recreation Department, this event is where Halloween spirits are high, and the fireworks are even higher. 
• Arizona Fall Fest (November): A celebration of all things local, this free, family-friendly event is your one-stop shop for local vendors, crafts, and food.
• Harvest Festival (November): Get ready for unlimited access to autumnal activities for fun and food.
• Canal Convergence (November): Art installations that light up the night, interactive experiences, and the community coming together to celebrate creativity by the water. Without planning for it, I happened to come to this event, and the art was beautiful!
• Salt River Fields Balloon Spooktacular (October): Hot air balloons, trick-or-treating, and a nighttime glow for Halloween.
• Schnepf Farms Pumpkin & Chili Party (October): Pumpkins and chili are paired with some farm fun.

Winter (December to February)

While half of the US is shoveling snow, in Phoenix, people are deciding whether it’s a shorts or jeans kind of day. Highs hover around the mid-60s°F (18-20°C) to low 70s°F (21-24°C). You might need a light sweater in the morning, but you’ll probably be in a T-shirt by noon.

This is the peak season for all things outdoors. Golf courses are in their prime, and the city’s parks are filled with families and fitness enthusiasts. And because of the mild weather, events, and markets pop up all over the valley.

Between holiday lights tours in December and events like the Strong Beer Festival in February, there’s no shortage of events to keep you entertained. And if you’re into more low-key outings, enjoy a meal on the patios of Phoenix’s best bars and restaurants.

Key Events:  

• Las Noches de las Luminarias (December): This annual tradition at the Desert Botanical Garden features over 8,000 luminaria bags and twinkling lights throughout the garden’s trails.
• ZooLights (December): Millions of lights, hundreds of displays, and a live entertainment show make this event one for the whole family.
• Winter Wanderland (December): A month-long celebration of holiday magic in downtown Phoenix, with events such as an ice skating rink and a hot chocolate walk.
• Annual Winter Wonderland Express (December):  A festive train ride through the park, complete with holiday lights and decorations.
• Waste Management Phoenix Open (February): Golf’s biggest party returns to Scottsdale every year in February. With record-breaking crowds, this tournament is known for its atmosphere and 16th hole.
•  Strong Beer Festival (February): This festival is a must for craft beer lovers. With over 500 brews to sample, you’ll get the chance to try some of Arizona’s best and strongest beers.
• Devour Culinary Classic (February): This event brings together the best of Phoenix’s culinary scene with top chefs and innovative dishes.
• Innings Festival (February): A blend of baseball and music, this festival features performances by major artists like Dave Matthews Band and Weezer. Plus, there’s a pop-up beer garden and chances to win autographed merchandise.

Phoenix Weather By Month

Below is a detailed monthly overview of the average high and low temperatures as well as precipitation in Phoenix:

Month	Average High (ºF)	Average Low (ºF)	Days with Precipitation	Av. Precipitation (inch)
Jan	67	46	4	0.91
Feb	71	49	4	0.92
Mar	77	53	3	0.99
Apr	85	60	2	0.28
May	95	69	1	0.11
Jun	104	78	1	0.02
Jul	106	83	4	1.05
Aug	104	83	5	1.00
Sep	100	77	3	0.64
Oct	89	65	3	0.58
Nov	76	53	2	0.65
Dec	66	45	4	0.88

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.