Southwest Guide to Phoenix, Arizona

• Camelback Mountain: Located in the center of Phoenix, hike up to the top of this famous mountain. Bring water and be sure to go early in the morning as the weather gets super-hot in the afternoon!

• Old Town: A neighborhood in Scottsdale, iconically known for their Western flare. Spend the afternoon walking around the quaint streets — here you can find restaurants, shops and galleries.

• Golf courses: One thing you are guaranteed to find in Arizona, are golf courses. Due to year-round gorgeous weather, there are various courses you can find around the area. These vary in pricing and demand, but be sure to spend the day golfing with friends!

• Desert Botanical Gardens: When you think of Arizona, you automatically associate the state with cacti. This 50-acre garden is filled with art installations as well as the various succulents and flowers this state is known for.

• Spas: What makes spas so special in Arizona, is that the tranquil energy of the desert makes your time here 10x more relaxing. You can find most resorts, including spa treatments that include products with ingredients found in the Sonoran Desert.

• ATV & Jeep tours: Soar through the Sonoran Desert on a four-wheeler or in a Jeep with friends. Outside the city, there are multiple trails that trained instructors can take you down to get all the best views of Arizona!

• Sporting games: Home to the Phoenix Suns, Arizona Cardinals and Diamondbacks, there are so many options to catch a sports game. Also home to MLB spring training teams — no matter the time of year, there is always a game happening.

• OdySea Aquarium: Known as the largest aquarium in the Southwest region — you can find exhibitions here. Go earlier in the morning as it gets busy, but this spot is one I recommend, especially for kids!

Day trips

• Sedona, Arizona: In just two hours' time from Phoenix, you can reach the famous 'Red Rocks'. A place iconically known for their hiking trails and yoga retreats, Sedona makes for the perfect day trip.

• Grand Canyon National Park: A 3-hour drive from Phoenix, this national park is well-known for its vast canyons. Be prepared for crowds and hot temperatures if you go in the summer. I recommend checking this out during the cooler months, March–May or September–December.

• Flagstaff, Arizona: With cooler weather year-round, Flagstaff is surrounded by gorgeous trees and ski resorts. This is a 2-hour drive North from Phoenix and makes for a great day trip if you want to get out of the warmer weather!

• Buck & Rider: This seafood restaurant is an absolute must-try for a night out. With two locations in Phoenix and Gilbert — this spot serves delicious drinks, sushi, steak and more.

• Chelseas Kitchen: An All-American restaurant with an outdoor patio, has that laid-back vibe and yummy food.

• Toca Madera: This modern steakhouse with Mexican flare makes for a great date night. Be sure to make a later reservation as they have fire dancers and loud music to fit the vibe.

• Ingos Tasty Food: With 3 locations around Phoenix, Ingos is a great neighborhood spot for a quick lunch or dinner. Enjoy a drink and finger food on their outdoor patios.

• Diego Pops: Located in Old Town Scottsdale, this Mexican restaurant serves up tacos, poke bowls, burritos and delicious cocktails. Make sure you put your name down early, as this area gets super busy, especially on the weekends!

• Ocean 44: An upscale seafood and steak restaurant that is located next to Old Town Scottsdale.

• Fellow Osteria: Craving pizza and pasta? This spot has a large wine and cocktail list as well as classic Italian dishes.

• The Mission: Serving up modern Latin cuisine plates. The vibes in the Old Town location are unmatched. I recommend going early to book a table or making a reservation online as it is popular.