Best Outdoor Activities in Phoenix

"Located in Arizona Boardwalk alongside other popular Scottsdale children’s’ attractions like OdySea Aquarium is Butterfly Wonderland. Kids of all ages can enjoy a unique experience as thousands of butterflies are allowed to fly freely throughout a tropical atrium. Butterfly Wonderland is one of the largest butterfly conservatories on the continent and it features America’s largest butterfly emergence gallery."

"For a fun day out, nothing can beat the beauty of Butterfly Wonderland. The state-of-the-art facility features a glass atrium and tropical rainforest habitat that features hundreds of species of butterflies from around the world. You can also enjoy a 3D "Flight of the Butterflies" movie and multiple interactive exhibits."

"One of the most popular hiking trails in the valley is the Echo Canyon trail at Camelback Mountain. The Echo Canyon Recreation Area is made up of layered sandstone and comprises the "head" of Camelback Mountain. Prepare to catch of glimpse at some of the smaller animals of the Sonoran Desert, including cottontail rabbits, snakes, lizards, Harris antelope squirrels as well as a variety of birds."

"The most well-known and popular outdoor hiking route in the Phoenix area is Camelback Mountain. The trails to get to the top of the mountain are definitely challenging, but well worth the effort for some awesome views and great exercise. Keep in mind that the Phoenix heat makes this hike extra challenging, so start your hike as early in the morning as possible."

"The Cholla Trail to the top is popular, but is not for the faint of heart. You can enjoy views of Camelback Mountain from the bottom in many parts of Phoenix."

"Combine the RA’ckin vibe a Japanese menu & it’s easy to see why the RA Sushi is a favorite for locals and tourists. Located in Old Town Scottsdale, on N. Scottsdale Road and E."

"Sushi Tokoro is a self-service sushi bar serving Japanese rice and noodle dishes. There are arrays of delicious sushi sold at affordable prices. They have a large variety of sushi prepared with the finest ingredients."

"This restaurant services the best vegetarian sushi in Phoenix. However, meat-eaters can enjoy the Sizzling Hawaii, Red Snapper, and Smoked Salmon rolls, among many other delicious sushi options."

"This Japanese-inspired restaurant was an immediate sensation at its debut back in 2010, famous for the artistic sensibilities of local James Beard Award-winning chef Nobuo Fukuda. The chef-artist is a critical darling for his iconoclastic take on traditional Japanese cuisine. By day, nosh on the elegant small plates and light, impeccably constructed salads, sandwiches and bowls."

"Few restaurants in the Valley are taken for granted like Nobuo at Teeter House, and that needs to change. Nobuo Fukuda serves dazzling food that’s smart and precise. But the way he has so naturally married the techniques and ethos of his native Japan to the soul and flavors of Arizona is what makes his work unique."

"Nobuo at Teeter House is named after it’s chef, Nobuo Fukuda. Chef Nobuo was born and raised in Tokyo and has 30 years of experience working as a Chef in Arizona. He was known to serve traditional Japanese dishes with a modern flair."

"The Gallery at Tempe Center for the Arts, which includes 3,500 square feet of exhibit space, presents exhibitions that complement artworks with educational materials, artist demonstrations, and community events. The gallery frequently shows works by emerging and established Arizona artists working in diverse mediums, often organized around themes such as pop culture, identity, or water. Exhibits include opportunities to meet artists, watch artists work, and engage in related hands-on activities."

"Families will enjoy a show with Childsplay at the Tempe Center for the Arts. These kids’ shows are perfect for young kids and often include a Q&A with the performers after the show. Check the theater’s schedule in advance to see if there is a kids’ show happening during your family vacation."

"Arizona Federal Theatre is a 5,000 seat entertainment venue located in the heart of downtown Phoenix, home to concerts and comedy performances as well as theatre and family friendly shows."

"These sugary concoctions filled with everything from chocolate cake to ginger cookies, Tsoynamis are a must-try in Phoenix. Nami and its sister restaurant, Green, are both completely vegan, but I can assure you each dish feels indulgent. Nami never ceases to amaze its customers with surprising flavors and ingredients."

"This awesome bistro specializes in vegan pastries and breakfast, and they have other menus like a brunch menu, to boot. Ever tried a vegan bagel sandwich?"