Being born in Tucson and raised in Phoenix, I wanted to share some of my favorite vacation things to do in the Valley. Yes, Phoenix does get hot in the summertime and you have probably heard that dry heat is not as hot as wet heat, which is true. Even when temperatures reach 110 degrees or more (I remember one summer when temperatures hit 125), it is very, tolerable. Phoenix has grown dramatically over the years, making it a great place to spend vacation time, especially if you love shopping, swimming, and golfing. However, you can be sure there are all types of wonderful things to see and do for an entire family.
For instance, if you love spending time at the museum, you will love the Heard museum, which is unique. For instance, this museum is home to more than 32,000 pieces of fine and cultural art. While some of the exhibits are permanent to include the Kachina doll collection of Barry Goldwater, you will also find some incredible displays that come and go. In addition, in February, you can enjoy watching the annual World Championship Hoop Dance Contest, a real interesting sight.
One stop I would recommend to everyone is the Desert Botanical Garden, which boasts one of the finest collections of desert plants in the world. In fact, there are only 44 desert botanical gardens in the United States, this being the only one supported by the American Association of Museums. While there, you will see 139 rare and even endangered plant species.
One of my favorite places to visit is the former Squaw Peak, now known as Piestewa Park. As a part of the Phoenix Mountains Preserve, this peak reaches more than 2,600 feet, perfect for backpackers and hikers. You will find the Summit Trail going up to 1,190 feet, a wonderful way to spend the day. Once you reach the top of the peak, you will have an incredible vantage point for looking out over the city of Phoenix.
You want to take time to visit Scottsdale, which is located on the east side of the city, a very, affluent suburb that offers more than 100 art galleries. Because the temperature is beautiful in Phoenix all year round, this makes a wonderful activity. Finally, two great destinations for the kids include the Rawhide Western Town and Steakhouse, and the Phoenix Zoo. At the Rawhide Town, you can watch gunfights in a western town, watch a real blacksmith at work, go on a desert train ride, or experience an authentic stagecoach ride. Then the Phoenix Zoo has not been opened that long but it has some amazing features.