Part 2 of 2
For Part 1, Click Here!
A few years ago I was thrilled to be heading to Phoenix AZ for some spring training games. While this wasn’t my first trip to Arizona, I have not spent a lot of time there. Therefore on this trip, I wanted to check out the top things to see in Phoenix Arizona (besides spring training of course). I had a great time researching and came up with a guide of some of the best attractions in Phoenix Arizona. Here is part two of the two posts I am sharing.
Many people ask “What are the best attractions in Phoenix?” Well I think that depends entirely on what each person or group enjoys, and want to see. With that in mind, I created this guide of the best attractions in Phoenix with a diverse list of things to see and do. Therefore my list includes indoor activities, outdoor activities, and attractions for families. No matter what you like to see and do, there is something the whole family can enjoy on my guide of the top 10 things to see in Phoenix Arizona.
Odysea Aquarium
Even though the Odysea Aquarium is not right in the city, but still in the metro area, it is definitely one of the best attractions in Phoenix Arizona. It was the highlight of a trip a took a few years ago with my niece and I hope to visit again one day soon. You can check out my post here. Not only is this aquarium newer, it is also one of a kind entertainment destination. A multi-level, state-of-the-art facility, the aquarium holds more than 2 million gallons of water and is the largest aquarium in Arizona. There are more than 65 exhibits, 370 species, the world’s only Russian Sturgeon touch exhibit as well as 2 Stingray touch exhibits and a tide touch pool. The highlight attraction, and one that can’t be missed, is the Odysea Voyager. It’s a stadium-seating style theatre with 46 ft. viewing windows for the “world’s only revolving aquarium experience. This exhibit wasn’t there when I visited last time, but they had what they called the Carousel which was AMAZING! I am sure hoping to get back soon to take a ride on the Voyager. Sounds incredible. This aquarium is definitely one of the top things to see in Phoenix Arizona and a must-see while in the area.
Visitor Information
Address: 9500 E Via De Ventura Scottsdale, AZ 85256
Phone: (602) 257-1880
Hours: Sun-Wed 9 am to 6 pm Thurs to Sat 9 am – 7 pm.
Pricing:
- Adults: $37.95 for Single
- Seniors (65+) $35.95
- Children (2-12) $27.95
- Children (Under 2) Free
- Parking Free
Phoenix Art Museum
I was glad that I was able to make it to the Phoenix Art Museum. They state to have more than 19,000 works of American, Asian, European, Latin American, Western American, modern and contemporary art, and fashion design pieces in their permanent collection. They didn’t lie, it was fascinating. To enlighten, entertain, and stimulate visitors of all ages, they present a variety of public programs year-round including tours, lectures, films, special events, and more. Like they said though, there is something for everyone to see and enjoy. I really enjoy European Impressionist artists and would definitely start out in the European section. Check out my post about our visit to the Art Institute of Chicago, as I have quite a few pictures of some impressionist art pieces. My visit to the Phoenix Art Museum is coming soon. Stay tuned.
Visitor Information
Address: 1625 N. Central Avenue Phoenix, AZ 85004-1685
Phone: (602) 257-1880
Hours: Mon – Closed Tues 10-5 Wed 10-9 Thurs- Sat 10-5 Sun 12-5
Pricing:
- Adults: $23
- Seniors (65+) $20
- Students (With ID) $18
- Children (6-17) $14
- Children (Under 5) Free
- Parking Free but Limited
Phoenix zoo
One of the treasures and best attractions in Phoenix Arizona is the Phoenix Zoo. According to their website, visit the Phoenix Zoo and explore a wondrous world of curiosity, imagination, and discovery. For more than half a century, the Zoo and its animals have amazed guests from across Phoenix and around the globe. Whether you are on the lookout for awe-inspiring Asian elephants, on safari to spot the great Sumatran tiger, or seeking towering giraffes roaming the savanna – a day at the Zoo offers adventures like no other place in the Valley. With cafes, shops, lush gardens, and exciting experiences like Stingray Bay, Giraffe Encounter, Monkey Village, Safari Train, 4-D Theater, and many more, your visit to the Zoo will be memorable for the entire family. The Phoenix Zoo is one of the nation’s largest non-profit zoos, committed to conservation and providing experiences that inspire people and motivate them to care for the natural world. My brother-in-law visited the zoo many years ago and had an amazing time. Sadly I didn’t make it on my last trip, but I hope to while I am there on a future visit.
Visitor Information
Address: 455 North Galvin Parkway Phoenix, Arizona 85008
Phone: (602) 273-1341
Hours: Daily 9-5 as of posting date, but change seasonally. Check their website for current hours.
Pricing:
- Adults: $24.95 or $22.95 Online
- Seniors (60+) $22.95
- Students $22.95
- Children (3-13) $16.95 or $14.95 Online
- Children (Under 2) Free
- Military / AAA Members $22.95
- Parking Free
Rosson House at Heritage Square
Located in Heritage Square, Rosson House is a restored 1865 Queen Anne Victorian home and museum. Today admission to the house is only allowed through docent-led tours which include all living areas and offer visitors a glimpse into the lifestyles of early Phoenix families. While touring the house, they tell stories of the residents who lived there, the history of Territorial Arizona, and interesting tidbits about Victorian America. Sounds like a fun way to learn some interesting history. FYI, tours begin every hour, on the hour. Small groups are accepted as they arrive. Groups of 6 or more require prior reservations. I didn’t take a tour of the house but did sit and have a beer on the square. It was nice since it was like 30 digress here in CO, lol.
Visitor Information
Address: 113 N 6th St, Phoenix, AZ 85004
Phone: 602-262-5070.
Hours: Wed. 10 am to 5 pm Last tour at 4 – Sun 12 pm 5 pm Last tour at 4 pm
Pricing:
- Adults: $10
- Seniors/Military/AAA Members/Students $9
- Children (5-12) $5
- Children (Under 5) Free
Sea Life
Another attraction that is wonderful to see is the SeaLife Aquarium. Although it is also in Tempe (still in the metro area), it is well worth the short drive. Once there you are sure to be wowed by the many strange, beautiful, and fascinating creatures of the deep as you journey through an amazing underwater world. While I wasn’t able to visit this aquarium, I have visited the SeaLife Kansas City and it was spectacular. Just like that one, guests get close-up views of everything from sea stars to sharks, rays, octopuses, and a rescued green sea turtle! To get any closer you’ll have to get wet! This location is home to thousands of sea creatures in 30 displays, interactive touch tanks, an amazing 360-degree ocean tunnel, talks, feeds, and much more! Hope to get to visit this aquarium on a future visit.
Visitor Information
Address: 5000 Arizona Mills Circle, STE 145 Tempe, Arizona 85282
Phone: 855-450-0558
Hours: Mon-Sat 10 am to 6 pm Sun 11 am to 5 pm
Pricing:
- Adults: $24.95 or $19.95 Online
- Children (3-12) $19.95 $14.95 Online
- Children (Under 2) Free
- Discounts for combo packages to Legoland Discovery Center
- Parking Free
There you have it, the second 5 of the best attractions in Phoenix Arizona (besides spring training games, lol). While a few of them are not right in the city of Phoenix, they are in the metro area and still the Phoenix top things to do. What have I missed? What do I need to include? Please comment below and let me know what you’ve enjoyed, or what I should add to this list. Thanks in advance.
