Downtown Phoenix encompasses approximately 5 square miles, but the main attractions are centered in an easily walkable area. The temperature is mild in spring and fall, with highs around 80-90 degrees Fahrenheit. Summers are quite hot, with temperatures exceeding 100 degrees from June to September. Winters are pleasantly warm during the day and cooler at night.
With world-class museums, performing arts, sports, shopping, an energetic nightlife scene, and so much more, downtown Phoenix truly has something for everyone. Keep reading to discover the top things to add to your itinerary for an unforgettable visit.
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Downtown Phoenix
Downtown Phoenix is the bustling urban core and cultural heart of Arizona’s capital city. With a desert climate and sunny weather for most of the year, downtown Phoenix is an appealing destination for tourists and locals alike.
Located in the center of the expansive Phoenix metro area, downtown is compact and walkable, making it easy to explore the district’s attractions on foot. Many of the city’s top destinations like the Phoenix Art Museum, Chase Field for Arizona Diamondbacks games, and the Arizona Science Center are clustered downtown. Iconic landmarks like the historic Orpheum Theatre and the modern Burton Barr Central Library add to the distinctive character of the downtown skyline.
Museums
The Phoenix metro area is home to numerous world-class museums showcasing art, science, history, and culture. Some of the top museums to visit in downtown Phoenix include:
Phoenix Art Museum – This expansive art museum located in the heart of downtown is the largest art museum in the Southwest. The museum’s collection includes over 18,000 works of American, Asian, modern & contemporary art, fashion design, and photography. Special exhibits range from Renaissance artists to cutting-edge contemporary artists. The museum also hosts regular classes, lectures, and family-friendly events.
Heard Museum – Dedicated to the history and art of Native American cultures, this museum houses an impressive collection of Native American artifacts, historical items, and artworks. Exhibits spotlight the culture and stories of tribes from across the Southwest. The Heard also hosts Native American artists through special exhibits, demonstrations, and performances.
Arizona Science Center – At this innovative museum, visitors can explore hands-on exhibits focused on science, technology and innovation. Permanent exhibits include an interactive gallery where kids can learn about physics and a simulated ride to Mars. The center also features a state-of-the-art planetarium and an IMAX theater.
Children’s Museum of Phoenix – This museum offers fun interactive exhibits and programs designed for kids under age 10. Exhibits allow kids to explore subjects like science, math, and art through hands-on play and activities. Some museum highlights include the Noodle Forest, Innovation Station, and ArtVille. The museum also hosts regular events and classes for children.
Performing Arts
Phoenix has a vibrant performing arts scene, with several notable venues located in the heart of downtown.
The Phoenix Symphony performs at Symphony Hall, a magnificently restored 1929 concert hall with some of the best acoustics in the state. The resident company presents classical masterworks as well as pops, family, and educational concerts. Symphony Hall also hosts touring Broadway shows and popular music acts.
For theatre, head to the Herberger Theater Center, which houses several performance spaces. Theater companies like Arizona Theatre Company, Ballet Arizona, and the Black Theatre Troupe perform here regularly. Musicals, dramas, comedies, and dance are all part of the eclectic mix.
The historic Orpheum Theatre opened in 1929 and today functions as a performing arts venue, hosting concerts, theatre, dance, comedy acts, and more. Its French Renaissance architecture and ornate interior make it a visual treat as well. The theater’s iconic massive marquee lights up downtown Phoenix.
With world-class venues showcasing local and visiting talent, downtown Phoenix delivers extraordinary performing arts experiences. Patrons can enjoy symphony, theatre, musicals, and more in architecturally stunning spaces.
Sports
Phoenix is home to several major league professional sports teams that you can catch in action during your visit downtown. The city’s biggest sports venue is Talking Stick Resort Arena, home of the NBA’s Phoenix Suns and WNBA’s Phoenix Mercury basketball teams. Talking Stick Resort Arena is located in the heart of downtown Phoenix and hosts games from October through June each year. Catch exciting professional basketball action from great seats while you’re in town.
The other major sports attraction downtown is Chase Field, home of MLB’s Arizona Diamondbacks baseball team. Chase Field opened in 1998 and can seat over 48,000 fans. The retractable roof provides shade and cooling for day games. Chase Field hosts baseball games from April through September. Be sure to catch an evening game while the roof is open for an unbeatable view of downtown Phoenix’s skyline. Both venues are close to hotels, restaurants, and bars, making for a convenient sports experience during your Phoenix visit.
Parks
Phoenix has some fantastic parks that are perfect for an outdoor excursion during your visit downtown. The city is home to lush gardens, walking paths, playgrounds, and lawns for picnics and recreation.
Margaret T. Hance Park is a 32-acre park located in central Phoenix. This park contains mature trees and grassy areas, as well as a playground and Japanese garden. It hosts festivals and events year-round.
Another popular park is Patriots Park, spanning 10 acres near the Arizona Science Center. It has open green space, walking paths, and a large playground. You’ll often find families flying kites here on a nice day.
For those looking to feed ducks or relax near a lake, head over to Encanto Park. This massive park contains fishing lagoons, pedal boats, picnic ramadas, baseball fields, and an 18-hole golf course. There’s something for everyone to enjoy here.
Portland Park is a quaint neighborhood park featuring sculptures, fountains, and colorful flowers. It’s a nice spot to rest for a bit while exploring downtown Phoenix. You’ll find locals walking dogs or enjoying a book in this park.
With so many options, Phoenix’s downtown parks offer natural scenery, recreation, and peaceful spaces to enjoy during your visit.
Shopping
The Phoenix area is a shopper’s paradise, with several high-end malls and shopping districts to explore. One of the top shopping destinations is Biltmore Fashion Park, located in the upscale Biltmore area. This outdoor mall features high-end stores like Saks Fifth Avenue, Ralph Lauren, Apple, and Lululemon. You’ll also find chic boutiques and specialty shops selling home decor, jewelry, and gifts. Grab a bite at one of the excellent restaurants like True Food Kitchen or The Capital Grille after a long day of indulging in retail therapy.
For an urban shopping experience, head to CityScape in downtown Phoenix. This mixed-use district boasts national retailers like Anthropologie, Urban Outfitters, and Sephora, along with local boutiques and restaurants. It’s very walkable and lively, especially during events like live music performances. Nearby on Roosevelt Row, don’t miss artsy shops selling locally made art, jewelry, and fashion.
Just east of Phoenix in Chandler, Chandler Fashion Center offers over 150 stores ranging from JCPenney to high-end brands like Louis Vuitton and Tiffany & Co. There’s also an H&M, a Microsoft store, and a showcase Harkins movie theater located here. Families will love the indoor play area and dining options like Dave & Buster’s.
With endless shopping malls, districts, and boutiques, Phoenix has a diverse retail landscape suitable for all tastes and budgets. Visit these premier shopping destinations on your trip.
Restaurants
Downtown Phoenix has a thriving restaurant scene with options ranging from upscale dining to casual cafes. Here are some of the top restaurants in downtown Phoenix:
Magnum Cafe
Magnum Cafe is located on 1st Avenue in the heart of downtown Phoenix. This cafe has a relaxing patio area that’s perfect for people-watching. Magnum Cafe serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Menu highlights include spicy huevos rancheros for breakfast and their signature Magnum burger for lunch or dinner. The restaurant has a full coffee and espresso bar along with a selection of Arizona beers and wines.
Blue Hound Lounge
Located in the Palomar Hotel, Blue Hound Lounge provides a sleek and modern dining experience. The lounge has indoor and outdoor patio seating. The menu focuses on contemporary American cuisine with items like duck confit tacos, roasted chicken, and braised short ribs. They also have an extensive craft cocktail list. It’s a great option for a night out in downtown Phoenix.
La Grande Orange Grocery & Pizzeria
This pizzeria, located in the historic Pivotal Building, uses homemade ingredients and brick ovens to create delicious thin-crust pizzas. Beyond pizza, La Grande Orange serves breakfast, sandwiches, salads, and gelato. There’s indoor and outdoor patio seating. It’s family-friendly during the day and has a lively bar scene at night.
Barrio Cafe
Barrio Cafe serves high-quality modern Mexican cuisine in a colorful, inviting setting. Chef Silvana Salcido Esparza has earned numerous James Beard nominations for her inventive take on traditional Mexican flavors. Signature dishes include cochinita pibil tacos, flame-grilled carne asada, and tender barbacoa. Barrio Cafe only takes reservations for large parties, so expect a wait during peak times. The fresh margaritas and festive atmosphere make it worth the wait.
Downtown Phoenix has no shortage of excellent dining establishments. From upscale cuisine to casual cafes, there are tasty options for every palate and budget. Visitors can explore the downtown restaurant scene by neighborhood or simply wander and discover new favorites.
Nightlife
Downtown Phoenix has a lively nightlife scene with bars, clubs, and lounges to suit any taste. One of the most popular nightlife destinations is Valley Bar. This basement bar offers craft cocktails, local beers, delicious food, and live music ranging from indie rock to funk and soul. The vibe is artsy and energetic.
For a retro gaming experience combined with craft beer, head to Cobra Arcade Bar. Get competitive with friends over arcade classics and pinball in between sips of local brews and cocktails. They also host DJs and live bands on weekends.
The Churchill provides a lively British pub atmosphere with darts, billiards, live soccer games, and an extensive selection of beer on tap. This multidimensional venue also offers comedy shows, live music, nightclub dancing, and more throughout the week.
If you want to explore Arizona’s impressive craft beer scene, make your way to Angels Trumpet Ale House. With a constantly rotating tap list showcasing beers from Arizona and beyond, you’re sure to discover some new favorites. They also offer a full menu of gastro-pub fare. The outdoor seating area is perfect for enjoying balmy Phoenix nights.
Downtown Phoenix truly comes alive after dark, with bars and nightclubs to suit every taste and mood. Sip craft cocktails, cheer on live bands, play retro arcade games, or sample Arizona’s best beers at these lively and unique nightlife hotspots.
Hotels
Downtown Phoenix has a great selection of hotels to choose from during your stay. Here are some of the top options:
Renaissance Phoenix Downtown
The Renaissance Phoenix Downtown is located right in the heart of downtown near CityScape. This luxury hotel has a beautiful outdoor pool deck overlooking the city. Guest rooms are modern and stylish. Onsite dining includes District American Kitchen and Bar which serves craft cocktails and upscale pub fare. Fitness center, business center, and meeting rooms are available.
Hyatt Regency Phoenix
For business travelers, the Hyatt Regency Phoenix is a top choice with its central downtown location. The hotel is near the Convention Center and sports arenas. Contemporary guest rooms have floor-to-ceiling windows. Dine at Compass restaurant, grab coffee at Cortez Coffee Shop, or have a nightcap at Knuckleheads Saloon. Amenities include a rooftop pool with city views, 24-hour fitness center, and business center.
Westin Phoenix Downtown
The Westin Phoenix Downtown overlooks Chase Field and has its entrance to the ballpark. Rooms feature Westin’s signature Heavenly beds and spa-like bathrooms. Have breakfast, lunch, or dinner at PHX Stage Bar which overlooks the pool deck. There’s also a Westin WORKOUT Fitness Studio and business center onsite. The location near entertainment venues is ideal.
With upscale accommodations and central downtown locations, these hotels make for an excellent home base while exploring Phoenix. Whether you’re traveling for business, a sporting event or concert, or just seeking an urban getaway, the Renaissance Phoenix Downtown, Hyatt Regency Phoenix, and Westin Phoenix Downtown offer stylish stays right in the heart of the action.
Conclusion
Downtown Phoenix offers a wide variety of fun things to do for visitors of all ages and interests. From world-class museums like the Phoenix Art Museum to the Children’s Museum of Phoenix, families can spend a full day exploring and learning. Sports fans can catch exciting games and events at Talking Stick Resort Arena, Chase Field, and Phoenix Suns Arena.
Outdoor enthusiasts will love strolling through the lush Phoenix Public Market and the beautiful Japanese Friendship Garden. Shoppers can browse popular boutiques in the Phoenix Public Market and find unique treasures in the antique stores along Roosevelt Row. When it’s time for a bite, choose from casual eateries to upscale steakhouses and restaurants offering cuisines from all around the world.
After the sun sets, the nightlife scene comes alive with bustling bars, lively nightclubs, comedy shows, and concerts. End the perfect Phoenix day relaxing at one of the many downtown hotels, like the historic Westin Phoenix Downtown or the modern Cambria Hotel Downtown Phoenix.
With its vibrant mix of culture, dining, entertainment, and recreation, downtown Phoenix has something for everyone. Visitors of all interests are sure to find plenty of fun things to do in this dynamic urban center.
You might want to experience the best weekend trips from Phoenix while you are here. Check out our Epic Weekend Trips from Phoenix Await! Unlock the Secrets of the Desert and discover stunning natural wonders, charming towns, and outdoor adventures just a short drive away.
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