Phoenix Holidays

Holidays in Phoenix

Did you know that 1,400,000 people call this part of Central Arizona home? You're sure to have met quite a few of them by the time you finish your trip!

Not sure where to start exploring in this incredible destination? The Taliesin West and the Tournament Players Club of Scottsdale would be an excellent choice.

If you're travelling with the whole family, trips to Wet 'n' Wild and Golfland Sunsplash are guaranteed to put smiles on everyone's faces! If you're looking for a bit more adventure, Big Surf and Castle N' Coasters are some additional options.

Our deep blue oceans are filled with all sorts of marine life. At Sea Life Aquarium, you're invited to admire some of these magical critters up close.

Both adults and kids will love getting close to the array of fascinating animals at the Phoenix Zoo and the Wildlife World Zoo and Aquarium. The Out of Africa Wildlife Park is another excellent attraction which teaches visitors about taking care of animals and the environment.

From checking out what's under the hood to witnessing what the state-of-the-art machines can do on the track, the Richard Petty Driving Experience has enough spills and thrills to satisfy any visiting motorheads.

There's not much like a night at a casino to get the good times rolling! Take on the baccarat dealer and observe the high-stakes action or just wander around and soak up the sights and sounds at the Casino Arizona and the Vee Quiva Casino. For more games, check out the Fort McDowell Casino and the Talking Stick Resort Casino.

This destination takes its plant conservation seriously, so there are plenty of places where you can go and learn about botanic specimens from both local and international landscapes. A walk around the landscaped gardens at the Desert Botanical Garden and the Ro He En Japanese Friendship Garden is not to be missed. For those who are more dedicated, the Carefree Desert Gardens and Sundial and the Fountain Hills Botanical Garden also have some delightful floral exhibits.

When you want some time out from the fast pace of the city, venture to an urban oasis like Camelback Mountain or Piestewa Peak. Also consider kicking back and whiling away a pleasant afternoon at at South Mountain Park or Hole in the Rock.

To really discover a place, there’s nothing like picking up some local knowledge. Whatever you're looking for, the helpful team at Tempe Convention and Visitors Bureau should be able to steer you in the right direction.

If you're a strong believer in the rejuvenating effects of being near the water, you've come to the right place. North Lake and Salt River Tubing are just a few of the beautiful waterways here that are worth a look. To spot any additional wildlife, it's also worth stopping by Canyon Lake and Catch-and-Release Fishing Lake.

Put on some comfy shoes and prepare for adventure. There are plenty of nature reserves around here that are just waiting to be enjoyed. The fresh, crisp air and natural surroundings at White Tank Mountain Regional Park and Lake Pleasant Regional Park are as energising as they come. For a little bit more quiet time, continue on to Cave Buttes Recreation Area and Sunnyslope Mountain.

Wander the tranquil halls, study the captivating displays and chat to the friendly staff. The Arizona Science Centre and the Heard Museum are comforting places to reflect and discover something new. The Phoenix Art Museum and the Musical Instrument Museum are also leading alternatives.

Science aficionados will be on top of the world at Lowell Observatory, where an entire array of interesting scientific artifacts and contraptions are just waiting to be discovered.

You'll uncover all kinds of rare and exotic specimens from the natural world at the Arizona Museum of Natural History and the Deer Valley Rock Art Centre. To uncover more from this ever-evolving planet, continue onwards to the R. S. Dietz Museum of Geology and the Katydid Museum.

With such a variety of wonderful art collections to wander around, you might need a friendly push in the right direction. We recommend grabbing a coffee and making your way to the Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art or the Zelma Basha Salmeri Gallery. The ASU Art Museum and the Fountain Hills Artists' Gallery also host collections which shouldn't be missed.

Learn about the influence that Phoenix's past figures and events had on the country, and sometimes the world, at the Cave Creek Museum and the Arizona Historical Society Museum at Papago Park. You can also find fascinating displays which bring the past to life at the Arizona Hall of Fame Museum and the Rosson House Museum.

To fully understand the background of Phoenix, set aside some time to experience Arizona State Capitol and the Grady Gammage Memorial Auditorium. If you're eager for more, Wrigley Mansion and the Chinese Cultural Centre should be next on your itinerary.

With its robust walls and striking turrets, Tovrea Castle at Carraro Heights is a remarkable structure. Admire its façade or simply shut your eyes and picture it during its glory days.

Whether you're religious or not, holy places like the Mesa Mormon Temple and Saint Mary's Basilica are sure to be among the most serene sights you'll experience during your travels. Franciscan Renewal Centre and the Arizona Buddhist Temple also interest many spiritual devotees.

They might not be at the top of your sightseeing list, but the Mesa Arts Centre and the Luke Air Force Base are still well worth a stop. You shouldn't miss the Arrowhead Country Club and the Shemer Art Centre either.