Phoenix Benchmark

The Arizona capital combines vestiges of the Old West, Spanish colonial influences, and Native American traditions with cosmopolitan elegance. Ensconced in the Valley of the Sun, the colorful desert landscape of red buttes around Phoenix inspired the talents of Louis L'Amour, John Ford and Frank Lloyd Wright. The warm, dry climate and modern southwestern backdrop is the ideal setting for a romantic weekend getaway, extended family vacation or corporate business event.

Things to see and do

In addition to incredible natural surroundings, Phoenix boasts inspiring cultural attractions, emerald-green golf courses, and major league sports venues, as well as fashionable boutiques, trendy restaurants and an exciting nightlife.

Leisure activities

Named the Valley of the Sun for its 325-plus days of sunshine, the Greater Phoenix area offers an array of challenging golf courses. Guests of Phoenix hotels can relax and rejuvenate with a spa and massage treatment after touring one of the city's major cultural attractions. The Desert Botanical Garden is a colorful menagerie of plant life native to the Sonoran Desert, while the world-famous Heard Museum celebrates the art and culture of Native Americans. Modern and contemporary artists from America, Asia and Latin America showcase their work for visitors to peruse at the Phoenix Art Museum. In addition to nearby Taliesin West and other historic homes, you can tour the spectacular countryside surrounding the metropolis.

Shopping and dining

Malls and boutiques offer upscale and hip apparel, with antique and artisan shops selling unique vintage pieces. While a chuck wagon dinner around a campfire was the common fare of yesteryear, today's Phoenicians experience an eclectic mix of international and fusion cuisines. Guests can explore local eateries or fine dining restaurants serving southwestern food such as buffalo, Navajo fry bread, green chili stew and sugar-dusted fritters. Paying homage to its Old West roots, the city has several steakhouses that satisfy aficionados, such as Bobby Q, often referred to as the best BBQ in town.

Nightlife and entertainment

After a day of outdoor activities and a colorful southwestern sunset, you can enjoy one of the fine wine bars, trendy brewpubs, flashy clubs or old-fashioned saloons dispersed around the metro area. The Rhythm Room is one of the numerous music venues in the city, and live comedy is found at Stand Up Live. Phoenix Symphony Hall is the host venue for the professional symphony, opera and ballet. Additionally, one of the city's four major-league sports teams may very well be playing a home game during your visit.

Special events

Visitors to Phoenix enjoy a range of festivals throughout the year, with the largest being the annual State Fair held in October. Other special events include a major college bowl game in January and the Phoenix Film Festival in March. Phoenix comes alive when the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series comes to town in November and February.

Where to stay

Downtown

Many Phoenix hotels are conveniently positioned in the city's center, close to major attractions and business centers, and a short journey to the picturesque outskirts. The Sheraton Phoenix Downtown hotel is just one of these accommodations, with luxurious sophisticated comforts and the nearby Phoenix Zoo.

North Phoenix

Bordering the city's suburbs, hotels in the north of PhoenixOpens in a new window offer visitors a chance to quickly escape in the rural landscape, and are only a short drive from the city center. Pointe Hilton Tapatio Cliffs Resort sits on a mountainous setting, with an award-winning Different Pointe of View restaurant.

Best time to visit

The mild temperatures from November to April draw the most visitors to Phoenix, and guests experience blue skies and warm temperatures with highs in the 70s, Fahrenheit. The arid climate creates a long, hot summer, with temperatures often exceeding triple digits, so plan accordingly. The annual rainy season lasts from July to September.

Travel information

You can easily reach the "Valley of the Sun" by air or car. Located 3 miles east of downtown, Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) is the main aviation gateway into the city. Motorists can reach Phoenix using Interstate 10, which approaches the city both from the south and west.