Phoenix places a high priority on multi-sensory experiences. With over 300 days of glorious sunshine, show-stopping vistas, and palate-pleasing food, all of your senses will tingle with joy. From red rock mountains to iconic landmarks, these are the things you must-see while visiting the Valley of the Sun. When it’s time to relax, enjoy comfortable accommodations at one of the city’s stylish vacation rentals.

Camelback Mountain

Take in majestic 360-degree views of the city atop the Camelback, the highest mountain in Phoenix. It bears a striking resemblance to a camel at rest with the head made up of red sandstone and the peak formed from granite. Two challenging trails (Echo Canyon and Cholla) demand you take a slow pace as you ascend to its 2,707-foot peak. Observe an assortment of flora and fauna along the way. For those not accustomed to strenuous treks, there are smaller trails to enjoy hiking, biking, and walking. If you would rather delight in the view from a balcony or patio, there are ample vacation rentals nearby.

Heard Museum

With a spotlight on Southwest American Indians, the Heard Museum offers a venue to experience authentic Native American history and culture. The museum has over 40,000 objects spread throughout 12 galleries. Explore ethnographic displays, interact with exhibits, and marvel at the Hopi Kachinas doll collection. Built in 1929, the internationally acclaimed museum tells the story of indigenous people from pre-colonial times to the present day. Visitors can participate in a free guided afternoon tour, learn craft-making techniques, and enjoy courtyard festivals.

Desert Botanical Garden

You will be amazed at how life thrives even in dry Phoenix places. Mother Nature’s work is on full display at the Desert Botanical Garden. Follow one of the five scenic trails to discover nearly 50,000 desert plants and animals. Enjoy sightings of cacti, flowers, rabbits, and chipmunks. Tour the gardens with a guide to learn how certain plants got their names. Visit the Plants and People of the Sonoran Desert Loop exhibit to find out the nutritional and medicinal benefits of desert flora. Take a stroll through an old-fashioned Western Apache house built out of split yucca leaves, cottonwood and willow branches.

Musical Instrument Museum

Enter the world of music at the Musical Instrument Museum. Since opening its doors in 2010, it has become one of the city’s top attractions, drawing over 250,000 visitors per year. Explore nearly 7,000 instruments and accompanying artifacts from around the world. The musical journey includes audiovisual presentations, interactive displays, recording studios, and workshops. Create your own sound with an Asian gong or Burmese harp. Strap on a pair of headphones and listen to the sounds of instruments. See the world’s largest playable sousaphone. Discover temporary and special exhibits featuring handwritten lyrics, costumes, and sheet music of iconic musicians. Enjoy a concert in the 300-seat theater and eat global cuisine made from local ingredients.

Taste it Tours

Get a taste of flavorful fare at some of the areas finest restaurants. The tour highlights a handful of treasures sprinkled throughout downtown Phoenix. Along the way, you will indulge in tasty food samplings, gain culinary insights, and sip a signature cocktail as a guide points out beautiful landmarks and provide historical and cultural information.