Ultimate 3-Day Phoenix Itinerary: Best Things to Do & See

Start your Phoenix adventure at the Desert Botanical Garden. Wander through stunning trails showcasing the world’s finest collection of arid-land plants amid a backdrop of red buttes and wildflowers.

Desert Botanical Garden

Head to Heard Museum to immerse yourself in Native American art and culture, featuring world-renowned exhibits and contemporary works by Indigenous artists.

Heard Museum

Enjoy a Southwestern lunch at The Clever Koi, a hip Asian-inspired eatery known for ramen and creative cocktails in the heart of Midtown.

The Clever Koi

Stroll through the Roosevelt Row Arts District, famous for its vibrant street art, quirky galleries, and indie boutiques—don’t miss the murals and local coffee shops.

Roosevelt Row

Wrap up your day with dinner at The Breadfruit and Rum Bar, a local favorite for sustainable Jamaican cuisine and craft cocktails in a lively setting.

The Breadfruit and Rum Bar

Rise early for a sunrise hike up Camelback Mountain, Phoenix’s iconic peak, offering panoramic city and desert views along the Echo Canyon or Cholla Trail.

Camelback Mountain

Refuel with a hearty breakfast at O.H.S.O. Eatery & Nano-Brewery, a beloved local spot with creative bites, refreshing morning brews, and a dog-friendly patio.

O.H.S.O. Eatery & Nano-Brewery

Discover the fascinating story of the American West at the Heritage Square, a charming historic block with preserved Victorian homes, museums, and shaded gardens.

Heritage Square

Enjoy a pizza lunch at Pizzeria Bianco, where James Beard Award-winner Chris Bianco crafts wood-fired pies that are a true Phoenix institution.

Pizzeria Bianco

Explore the eclectic Melrose District with its vintage shops before a sunset cocktail at the retro-chic The Newton, a creative community space with a cozy bar and independent bookstore.

The Newton

Dinner awaits at Richardson's Cuisine of New Mexico, a local gem offering spicy, flavorful Southwestern dishes and a renowned tequila selection in a warm, adobe-style setting.

Richardson's Cuisine of New Mexico

Start at the Phoenix Art Museum, home to an impressive collection of contemporary, American, and international art, plus thought-provoking rotating exhibitions.

Phoenix Art Museum

Grab brunch at Matt's Big Breakfast, a classic diner beloved by locals for its farm-fresh eggs, crispy bacon, and signature griddle cakes.

Matt's Big Breakfast

Take a short drive to Taliesin West, Frank Lloyd Wright’s desert masterpiece, where guided tours unveil the architecture and philosophy of one of America’s greatest architects.

Taliesin West

Savor a fresh, seasonal lunch at The Henry, a chic bistro known for its bright décor, creative salads, and specialty coffee drinks.

The Henry

Experience a magical desert sunset at Papago Park, famous for its red sandstone buttes, scenic trails, and the unique Hole-in-the-Rock formation—perfect for photos and golden hour views.

Papago Park

End your trip with dinner at Barrio Cafe, renowned for chef Silvana Salcido Esparza's inventive Mexican cuisine and bold murals celebrating Phoenix’s Latino heritage.

Barrio Cafe