Phoenix, Arizona-6-day-itinerary

August 7, 2024

Day 1: Explore Downtown Phoenix

Morning: Start your day at the Heritage Square, a historic district featuring preserved buildings from the late 19th century. Visit the Rosson House Museum (admission: $10) and explore the surrounding area.
Lunch: Grab some Southern-style comfort food at MacAlpine’s Diner ($15-$25 per entree). Try their famous burgers or sandwiches!
Afternoon: Head to the Phoenix Art Museum (admission: free, donations appreciated). With a collection of over 19,000 works of art, you’ll find something that catches your eye.
Evening: Enjoy dinner at FnB, a farm-to-table restaurant with a focus on seasonal ingredients ($30-$50 per entree).
Accommodations: Stay at the Hotel Palomar Phoenix (rates: $150-$200 per night), a modern hotel with stylish rooms and great service.
Things to Know:
- Parking is limited in Heritage Square, so be prepared for some walking.
- Be sure to try some of the local art and crafts on display at the museum.
Transportation: Use public transportation ( buses: $2 per ride) or hail a cab ($15-$20).
Tips:
- Be prepared for hot desert weather, even in January. Bring sunscreen and stay hydrated!
- Take some time to explore the surrounding neighborhoods, like Roosevelt Row or the Warehouse District.

Day 2: Desert Adventure

Morning: Drive out to Papago Park (free admission), a beautiful park featuring red rock formations and hiking trails.
Lunch: Pack a picnic lunch and enjoy it in the shade of one of the park’s many trees. Don’t forget to bring plenty of water!
Afternoon: Visit the Phoenix Zoo (admission: $25 per person) and see the amazing variety of animals from around the world.
Evening: Head back to Downtown Phoenix and enjoy dinner at Barrio Café, a lively spot for Mexican cuisine ($20-$30 per entree).
Accommodations: Same as Day 1, stay at the Hotel Palomar Phoenix (rates: $150-$200 per night).
Things to Know:
- Be sure to bring sunscreen and hats, even in January.
- Don’t miss the unique red rock formations on the hiking trails.
Transportation: Same as Day 1, use public transportation or hail a cab.
Tips:
- Consider renting a car for this day, as it will make exploring the park much easier.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks to keep your energy up.

Day 3: Golfing in Scottsdale

Morning: Drive out to Talons Creek Golf Course (green fees: $50-$70 per person) for a round of golf. Be prepared for some beautiful desert scenery!
Lunch: Head to The Kettle Black Kitchen & Pub ($15-$25 per entree), a great spot for casual dining.
Afternoon: Visit the Scottsdale Museum of the West (admission: $10 per person) and explore the exhibits on Western art and history.
Evening: Enjoy dinner at Dominick’s Steakhouse, a high-end restaurant with top-notch steaks ($50-$70 per entree).
Accommodations: Stay at the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess (rates: $200-$300 per night), a luxurious resort with great amenities.
Things to Know:
- Be sure to book your golf tee times well in advance.
- Don’t miss the beautiful gardens and grounds of the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess.
Transportation: Use public transportation or rent a car for this day.
Tips:
- Consider taking a break from golfing to explore the nearby Old Town Scottsdale.
- Be prepared for some crowds at popular restaurants like Dominick’s.

Day 4: Art and Culture

Morning: Visit the Wells Fargo Museum (free admission), a unique museum showcasing the history of banking in Arizona.
Lunch: Head to Café Monarch, a charming spot for sandwiches and salads ($10-$20 per entree).
Afternoon: Explore the Roosevelt Row Arts District, featuring galleries, studios, and street art. Be sure to check out the famous “street art” in the neighborhood.
Evening: Enjoy dinner at St. Francis, a stylish restaurant with a focus on seasonal ingredients ($30-$50 per entree).
Accommodations: Same as Day 1, stay at the Hotel Palomar Phoenix (rates: $150-$200 per night).
Things to Know:
- Be sure to check out the local street art in Roosevelt Row.
- Don’t miss the unique exhibits and artifacts on display at the Wells Fargo Museum.
Transportation: Use public transportation or hail a cab.
Tips:
- Consider taking some time to explore the nearby neighborhoods, like the Warehouse District or Thomas Square.

Day 5: Nature Reserves

Morning: Visit the Desert Botanical Garden (admission: $25 per person), featuring over 50,000 plants and flowers from the desert.
Lunch: Pack a picnic lunch and enjoy it in one of the garden’s many shaded areas. Don’t forget to bring plenty of water!
Afternoon: Explore the nearby Tres Rios Nature Reserve (free admission), featuring beautiful views of the surrounding landscape.
Evening: Enjoy dinner at FnB, a farm-to-table restaurant with a focus on seasonal ingredients ($30-$50 per entree).
Accommodations: Same as Day 1, stay at the Hotel Palomar Phoenix (rates: $150-$200 per night).
Things to Know:
- Be sure to bring sunscreen and hats for this day.
- Don’t miss the unique plant species on display at the Desert Botanical Garden.
Transportation: Use public transportation or hail a cab.
Tips:
- Consider taking some time to explore the nearby neighborhoods, like Roosevelt Row or Thomas Square.

Day 6: Last Day in Phoenix

Morning: Spend your last morning exploring one of Phoenix’s many unique neighborhoods, like Downtown Glendale (free admission).
Lunch: Grab a bite to eat at one of the many restaurants in Downtown Glendale, such as The Farmhouse Café ($10-$20 per entree).
Afternoon: Head back to your accommodations and pack up for departure.
Evening: Enjoy a farewell dinner at one of Phoenix’s top-rated restaurants, like Pizzeria Bianco (prices: $15-$30 per entree).
Things to Know:
- Be sure to check out the local street art in Glendale.
- Don’t miss the unique shops and galleries on display in Downtown Glendale.
Transportation: Use public transportation or hail a cab for this day.

I hope you’ve enjoyed your 6-day itinerary for traveling in Phoenix, Arizona!