Tourist attractions to see in Phoenix
Fellow traveler, welcome to the capital city of Arizona, Phoenix. We guess that you would like to know what some of the most interesting tourist attractions on offer are. You have come to the right place, as we have arranged a neat little list to guide you through the wonders of this sunny town. So regardless of whether you are just passing by or you plan on moving to Arizona on a permanent basis, Phoenix has plenty of tourist attractions for everyone. Take a map, pack some water and sunscreen, print this list and you are good to go exploring.
A brief introduction to Phoenix
It is the fifth most populous city in the United States. Its history dates back to the 1870s when its first settlers established it as an agricultural community. Phoenix is on the border of Sonoran Desert and is therefore known for its warm and dry climate. This area is one of the sunniest places on earth and Phoenix itself is a city that receives the most sunshine of any major city on the Earth. In addition, the city is home to the Phoenix Suns, a famous professional basketball team that competes in the NBA. In recent years, Phoenix has evolved into one of the most sought-after destinations to move to.
Famous landmarks and tourist attractions in the Phoenix metro area
Phoenix is a city rich in different architectural influences spanning from glass skyscrapers to Spanish colonial-style buildings. Some of the most attractive landmarks to see in Phoenix are:
- Her secret is patience is an art sculpture located in Civic Space Park. This unconventional artwork resembling an alien aircraft was made out of steel and decorated with neon lights. Its psychedelic design is the perfect material for some great photos.
- Gammage Auditorium is a multipurpose performing arts center, The famous architect Frank Lloyd Wright, whose other works are on display all around Phoenix, designed this venue.
- Tovera Castle is one of the most prominent city landmarks.
An Italian immigrant, who drew inspiration from the castle’s European predecessors, created this beautiful structure which resembles a wedding cake or a sand castle. Around the castle, you can find a park with a wide range of different cactus spices. - Saint Mary’s Basilica is a classic Spanish colonial-style church with large and stained glass windows. Built in 1914, it serves as a home to the city’s Roman Catholic population.
Fun things to do in Phoenix
Since it is a large and diverse city, you can imagine that Phoenix has a rich offering of things to see and do. You can take a walk outside of the city and enjoy its desert scenery, bright sun, and cactuses, or you can discover its culture by visiting some of its many history, art and science museums. When you grow tired of exploring tourist attractions, drop by some of the best restaurants and dining venues in the city downtown.
Arizona state capitol museum
This magnificent building served as a government seat until it became a museum. Therefore, if you plan on becoming an Arizona citizen, this is the place to visit and learn about the turbulent history of this state. One of its exhibitions is a huge Arizona flag made entirely from Lego bricks.
Phoenix art museum
This futuristic building is a masterpiece in its own right. It is a place to visit for your monthly dose of culture as it houses over 18,000 works of art from all around the globe. Contemporary and modernist artworks, paintings of renaissance and baroque masters, Asian and American culture, are all on display here. Would you like to see Picasso or Monet? This is the right place for you.
The Heard Museum
The well-known Heard museum is dedicated to the evolution of American Indian culture and art. The museum galleries feature a wide array of pottery, cutlery, ornaments and clothes characteristic to the Natives. Founded in 1929, it offers its visitor an insight of this important part of American history.
Pueblo Grande Museum and cultural park
The top priority for history and archaeology aficionados this ancient landmark represents one of the more interesting tourist attractions. Once home to a Hohokam tribe, it is today one of the most well preserved pre-Columbian ruins in the United States.
Desert botanical garden
Consisting of a plethora of plants and vegetation native to deserts, this delightful place is a great way to spend your weekend. It has a long walking path decorated with art displays and if you are lucky enough, there is a fair chance for you to spot hummingbirds.
Old Town Scottsdale
This cute little neighborhood, which is part of the greater Phoenix area, is booming with hotels, quirky pubs, restaurants, and shops with local products and souvenirs. Its web of streets is perfect for walking and window shopping. Scottsdale has a vibrant nightlife with clubs and bars that are open all night. It is easily accessible by public transit.
Hot-air balloon ride over Phoenix
Want to see Phoenix from the skies? This is probably a tourist attraction for the more courageous, but the experience will be highly rewarding. During an hour-long flight, you will get the chance to see one of the hottest and most barren places in North America, the Sonoran desert.
Heritage Square restaurants
If you become tired and hungry from exploring and visiting tourist attractions, the best idea would probably be to head to the Heritage Square and treat yourself to lunch or dinner. Luckily for you, the choices are abundant, and you can get anything from pizza to Japanese and Mexican food. While you’re eating, you can enjoy the view of the 19th-century buildings and homes.
Like we said, Phoenix has plenty to offer. Therefore, it is now your turn to prepare your backpack and camera and to dive into this sunny city. If you fall in love with Phoenix and desire to move there on a more permanent basis, feel free to check out accelerated-international.com to help you with your relocation.