20 Fun Things to do in Phoenix Besides Shopping!
Disclaimer: We are not paid to promote any restaurant, hotel, activity, product, or attraction. All opinions are subjective and based on our personal experience. Your experience may be different.
When it comes to shopping, the Phoenix metro is home to a seemingly endless supply of enticing options. From high end designer shopping, to bargain outlets, to beautiful open air complexes, this suburban oasis truly is a shopping mecca with a little something for everyone. In fact, it’s impossible to drive even 15 minutes without seeing another luxurious, nicely landscaped shopping plaza. Mike and I often plan daytrips here from Flagstaff (a quick 2 hour drive) just to enjoy a day of shopping.
Beautiful Tempe and Desert Ridge Marketplace, along with Biltmore Fashion Park are all gorgeous outdoor malls to enjoy during the beautiful sunny, mild winter season. The Scottsdale Fashion Square and Chandler Fashion Center are wonderful indoor centers to check out during the hot summer months when it’s just too uncomfortable to spend extended periods of time outdoors.
That being said, the city is so much more than simply a shopping destination. I visited for the first time with low expectations but now consider it one of the best metros for fitness buffs. Sadly, many visitors come and go without exploring the beauty of the Sonoran Desert. Many tourists spend the majority of their time in their car, not knowing that there is much more to see if you leave the strip malls behind.
I have compiled a list of some of the best things to do that do not involve shopping. As expected, many of these activities center around the gorgeous natural recreational areas found scattered around the region. The Sonoran desert offers endless recreational opportunities for outdoor and fitness enthusiasts. To me, the Sonoran is one of the most gorgeous and exoctic places to explore in the country. So, next time you find yourself in Phoenix, venture away from the malls for a bit to explore the natural wonders of the desert.
in no particular order…
1. Complete the rough, yet totally rewarding journey up Camelback Mountain
Camelback Mountain is probably the most popular hike in the city. I got here at 5am my first time hiking and the lot was already packed. Despite the hefty crowds, it’s the most iconic hike in the area. This was the first hike I completed here, and to this date, still the most memorable. You can choose amongst 2 trails (Cholla and Echo Canyon) to climb up the 2704 foot summit, for a total elevation gain of approximately 1400 feet. Both trails are pretty difficult, although the Cholla is a bit longer (3 miles RT compared to 2.3) and a tad easier. Whichever route you choose, you will be treated to outstanding views of the city and desert. Avoid summer hiking at all costs!
2. Take a relaxing morning walk around The Phoenix Zoo
The city is home to a great little zoo which stands out for its’ beautiful landscaping, easy walkability, and diversity of animals. I’ve been to a lot of zoos and I really love the layout, plant life, and diversity of animals here; it’s really different from any other zoo I’ve visited.
I recommend avoiding a summer visit unless you get here super early. Conveniently, the zoo opens at 7am July-August. Grab a coffee (Starbucks is available) and enjoy a light, leisurely morning workout surrounded by beautiful desert landscaping and all your favorite animals. If your visit falls during the winter season, definitely check out the Zoo Lights spectacular (it’s one of the biggest in the country).
3. Hike Piestewa Peak
Like Camelback Mountain, the hike to the summit of Piestewa Peak is a real challenge. This mountain peak (2610 ft) is the second tallest after Camelback. There is a 1200 foot elevation gain so it’s no small feat. This one is even a bit tougher in my opinion as the climbing seems to never end; it’s like an unending Stairmaster workout.
I would only recommend this uphill climb to the most avid hikers and only during the cooler fall and winter months. I really love the amazing views of the city and mountains in the background. Check out more hikes within the Phoenix Mountains preserve.
4. Explore the serene trails of Usery Mountain State Park
Usery Mountain is by far the top attraction to add to your Mesa to-do list. This peaceful, beautiful oasis in the Sonoran desert is the perfect place to get in a workout, whether you are seeking a nature walk or an intense heart pumping exercise session. Trails range from easy hikes to all day adventure and each will give you a great glimpse into the desert ecosystem. It’s crazy to think this place exists in the middle of all the suburban congestion.
My top pick for first time visitors would be The Merkle Trail (a quick 2 mile trek). I love all the gorgeous cati and fabulous views of the Goldfield mountains on this easy trail. On a side note, I got stung by my first cactus here, so be careful. And yes, it took a long time to take out all the needles and it hurt bad!
Check out the full trail guide at Usery
5. Savor a fantastic espresso at Cartel Coffee Lab
Bypass the standard chain offerings in exchange for an eclectic local choice like Cartel Coffee Lab. Cartel roasts their own beans (which they source from small farms around the world) at their original Tempe location. Although there are 6 locations to choose from, the Tempe cafe is especially interesting and features quirky decor and artwork. And the coffee itself? Best in the metro in my opinion. This local roaster is a great choice for anyone not in a rush, so take a break and enjoy a morning caffeine boost before hitting the trails. Runner up goes to Peixoto in suburban Chandler.
6. Take a relaxing cruise aboard Desert Belle
After moving to Arizona, I was really surprised to learn that Phoenix was home to 4 large lakes. There are a number of cruises you can take, my favorite being the Desert Belle on Saguaro Lake. This hour and a half cruise around the most beautiful lake in the area is both gorgeous and educational. If you are not into hiking (or it’s just too darn hot), a boat ride is your next best bet for taking in the beauty of the desert.
You will see many varieties of cacti and possibly some wildlife (mountain lions, bobcats, and javelina have been spotted according to our cruise guide). The 2 level boat is air conditioned on the lower deck. If you choose the top level, you will enjoy a nice breeze and top notch views. We arrived too late and missed a spot on the AC deck, but fortunately, thanks to the breeze, it wasn’t all that bad.
7. Take a scenic bike ride
One of the things I love most about this metro is the many options for fitness. If you don’t like hiking, you can always opt to bike instead. While summer is off limits, I love biking here in the fall and winter. My favorite path is a scenic beauty known as the Indian Bend Wash trail, a 11 mile trek which passes many gorgeous parks, lakes, and golf courses. At times, I forget that I am in a desert!
8. Explore the beauty of South Mountain Park
As the 2nd largest urban park in the country with 50 miles of diverse trails, you will never get bored at South Mountain. I think both beginning and avid hikers will appreciate the diversity of train. There is really something here for everyone. I recommend The Kiwanis Trail, an easy 2 mile hike, which offers stunning views of desert plant life and even a hint of the skyline. It’s gorgeous and quiet, with low foot traffic, leading to a truly relaxing experience in nature.
Not a hiker? A great alternative is to drive up the 5.5 mile road to the summit for panoramic views of the Valley. Just be sure to watch out for runners and cyclists who share the road.
9. Picnic, hike, and relax at Papago Park
Papago Park, located adjacent to the zoo , is just 10 minutes from downtown, yet feels so far away. With several miles of easy trails, a stocked fishing lagoon, a mile+ fitness station course, and picnic facilities, this is a wonderful place to spend half a day. There really is no shade here, so I would not recommend a summer visit. Any other time of the year, it’s a great place to get back to nature.
The trails here are all pretty easy, making it a great choice for anyone looking for a simple walk or beginner’s mountain biking experience. The park is also home to a beautiful botanical gardens. Hole in the Rock (pictured above) is a unique lookout which was once used by natives to mark the solstice.
Learn more about Papago Park attractions
10. Challenge yourself to a heart pounding climb up Pinnacle Peak
Scottsdale is so much more than just massive malls and HOA developments. There are actually quite a few wonderful hiking destinations. My top pic is a 3 and a half mile adventure around Pinnacle Peak, the peak of which can only be reached via a lot of climbing. As you meander through the Sonoran desert, gaining 1300 feet in elevation, you will take in gorgeous views of this sprawling suburb and the mountains that surround it. It reminds us that sometimes we need to look from above to appreciate the beauty of an area.
I’ll warn you that this is a really intense hill workout, but I think the scenery justifies the challenge. The mountain views are so gorgeous and I love seeing all the cacti up close. As one of the more popular hikes in the city, expect big weekend crowds.
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