Things to do in phoenix

If you had only one day in Phoenix, what would you do or see? Believe it or not, I get asked this question fairly often. Interesting to ponder, but impossible to answer. There are just too many factors. Will there be children along? Do you like to walk or drive? Is it summer or winter? Do you like museums or shopping? Metro Phoenix has so much to offer. There are so many options--how do I recommend just one or two attractions or activities?

I have picked out 15 places/activities that I think are unique or not to be missed when visiting the Phoenix area. You'd never get these done in even a week, but some attractions will appeal to you more than others. Visiting when it's hot outside? The places or activities I've marked with a double asterisk (**) are indoor, cool, and comfortable. The others may not be appropriate in summer heat, or only if you are able to visit very early in the morning.

One more thing--these Phoenix area attractions and places of interest are not listed in any particular order. It was tough enough to come up with only 15 -- please don't make me rank them!

15 Places In and Around Phoenix That You've Got to See

Heard Museum**
Every major city, and most minor ones, have museums. The Heard Museum is unique, however, not only in the exhibits that are displayed, but the style and grace with which it displays them. I never tire of visiting the Heard Museum, with its more than 32,000 pieces of cultural and fine art. There are permanent exhibits, like the famous Barry Goldwater collection of Kachina Dolls, as well as special exhibit year-round. Some of the special annual events include the World Championship Hoop Dance Contest which is held each February, and the Heard Museum Guild Indian Fair & Market each March. There's a METRO light rail station nearby.

Take a Photo Tour of the Heard Museum

Chase Field (formerly Bank One Ballpark)**
Chase Field was the first baseball facility in the world to combine a retractable roof, air conditioning, and a natural turf field. Chase Field's retractable roof can be closed in less than 5 minutes, in case we get one of those rare days of inclement weather. If you are a baseball fan, a visit to this state-of-art facility will be a special treat. There are also trade show, religious events and concerts held at Chase Field. If you aren't that interested in going to a game, or when isn't scheduled when you'll be in town, you can still see it. Just go to lunch or dinner at Friday's Front Row Sports Grill. It is located in the left-field corner of the Ballpark. Friday's Front Row is open 363 days a year. If the Arizona Diamondbacks are playing that day, you have to call them to buy tickets to eat there. Fifty percent of the ticket price is credited to your food and beverage bill. Chase Field is located in downtown Phoenix. There's a METRO light rail station nearby.

Guided Tours of Chase Field

Desert Botanical Garden
The Desert Botanical Garden has one of the world’s finest collections of desert plants. It is one of only 44 botanical gardens accredited by the American Association of Museums. At the Desert Botanical Garden you will find 50 acres of beautiful outdoor exhibits. Home to 139 rare, threatened and endangered plant species from around the world, there is no finer place to enjoy desert beauty than the Desert Botanical Garden. The Garden is located in Papago Park in Central Phoenix.