Rock formations offer breathtaking views and colorful sunsets that attract hikers and nature lovers. The area features picnic spots and playgrounds, creating a relaxed and family-friendly atmosphere. Trails provide a peaceful escape with opportunities for climbing and enjoying desert scenery.
Unreal sunset views come through a natural rock opening, offering a peaceful escape with a panoramic cityscape visible from the spot.
Climbing offers a super fun time with easy trails that suit families and kids. Views provide a great backdrop for pictures while getting some exercise.
"I enjoyed the nice view of the city from the top."
"The scenic views from the top were amazing and totally worth it."
"I found the hike to be fun with amazing views."
Good to know
Hole in the Rock is free to visit.
Bring water, especially on hot days and with the steep walk.
Expect crowds on weekends, especially during sunrise and sunset.
Rock stairs carved into the trail lead up a steep, moderately difficult climb with benches for resting. The summit offers spectacular views and a remote rock outcrop for taking in the scenery. The trail fills with fit hikers and families, and it gets busy during golden hour.
Summit offers stunning views of the mountain, city lights, and sunset. Trails provide nice views of downtown and surrounding neighborhoods, making the hike rewarding.
Trail offers a hard but fun challenge with a beautiful hike. Going up is tough, but coming down feels easier and still fun.
Good to know
Dogs are not allowed on the trail.
The presence of rattlesnakes is a potential safety concern for hikers.
Bring plenty of water, at least 2 liters, especially if you're not used to hiking.
Mountain trails offer gorgeous views and scenic vistas with easy access and varied terrain. The atmosphere stays quiet and calm, with occasional wildlife like chipmunks and birds. Parking is generally free but can be limited, encouraging early arrival or carpooling.
Breathtaking views await at the top and along hidden trails. The preserve offers spectacular vistas, ample space, and a strong connection with nature that feels far from the city.
Trails offer easy and fun routes for little ones. Quick loops like 8B 8A and 8 provide a fast and enjoyable experience. Hikes stay short and lively, fitting well into a busy day.
Good to know
Parking is free and plentiful, but can become limited on busy days.
Arrive early or carpool to secure a parking spot during peak times.
Watch out for snakes while hiking, especially during warmer months.
Golf course offers breathtaking views and superb conditions with fast, challenging greens. Outdoor restaurant and bar provide live music and good food, including notable margaritas and pizza. Driving range stands out as one of the coolest in the area, enhancing the overall experience.
Breathtaking views of the nearby mountains surround the iconic course. The golf course offers beautiful desert scenery that stands out outside the city.
Challenging and fun, the course offers great opportunities for practicing drives and putting. Playing on the greens adds to the overall enjoyment.
Good to know
Playing costs $34 with a Phoenix Golf Card, including a cart.
The course is in excellent condition, making it a great choice for golfers.
Expect slow pace of play due to lack of a ranger on the course.
Golf course offers spectacular mountain views and a peaceful atmosphere with well-maintained greens that require accuracy. Renovated clubhouse and comfortable bar and patio provide lively spots after play. The setting combines beautiful landscapes with modern amenities for a balanced experience.
Back nine offers incredible views of Camelback Mountain and surrounding peaks. Outdoor patio features gorgeous mountain views with comfy seating. Some spots reveal spectacular Phoenix Valley vistas.
Golf offers a fun atmosphere with great views. Staff members like Tyler, Stephen, and Dusty add to the enjoyable experience.
Good to know
Reservations are required unless you can wait 30-40 minutes for a tee time.
Expect high prices for food and drinks at the facility.
There are multiple water stations on the course, but they may run empty.
Hydroelectric power station with art deco design and steampunk vibe creates a unique urban oasis. Waterfalls and canal blend historic engineering with modern public space. Quiet atmosphere invites relaxation and meditation amid tennis courts and bike trails.
Breathtaking waterfalls and Arizona mountains create a stunning backdrop. The view shines especially around sunset, offering a gorgeous landscape to enjoy and photograph.
A fun little stop for about 15 minutes, this spot offers a hidden and interesting place to walk and explore briefly.
Good to know
Arizona Falls is accessible for wheelchair users 100%.
The entrance to Arizona Falls is free.
Parking is available at Arizona Falls.
Man-made storm drain hosts tens of thousands of small, fast bats emerging in waves at dusk. Quiet, respectful visitors watch from a hidden, natural setting with no amenities or designated parking. The experience highlights urban wildlife and the food chain in action amid a metropolitan backdrop.
Spectacular views include watching bats emerge from the cave and a sunset featuring a praying monk on camelback. The scenery combines natural wildlife with striking silhouettes against the sky.
Watching the bats fly out at sunset offers a fun and beautiful experience. The cave provides a scary but fun atmosphere and a great way to connect with nature during a stroll or date night.
Good to know
The best time to see bats is from June to September at dusk.
Visitors should arrive before sunset to see the bats emerge.
Parking is not available at the cave; nearby lots require permits.
Movie theater offers comfortable reclining seats with food and drinks served directly to seats, creating a personal and relaxing atmosphere. Bright, clean auditoriums feature top-notch sound and picture quality that enhance the viewing experience.
Balcony offers amazing views of Biltmore and Camelback Mountain. Exiting the theater reveals beautiful mountain views at night.
Dine-in movies offer a fun twist on watching films, combining dining with entertainment. The experience adds a lively, enjoyable layer to a typical movie night.
Good to know
Parking costs over $10 and is often difficult to find.
Reservations for food and drinks must be made online before arrival.
The escalator and elevator are both out of service, making access challenging.