Eleven Great Things to Do in Phoenix

Phoenix is one of America’s most popular cities for tourists, and no wonder with so many things to see and do. Whether you’re in search of unique outdoor adventures or plan to soak up some culture between rounds of lounging by the pool, Phoenix offers something for everyone.

Planning that perfect getaway is easy thanks to Southwest Vacation packages, an off-shoot of Southwest Airlines, which allows you to book your flight, car, accommodation and activities all in one fell swoop.

In fact, Phoenix is one of Southwest’s most popular destinations.

And, with weekly deals on select travel and resorts, there’s no excuse not to go.

Not convinced? Let us tempt you with these 11 great things to do in Phoenix:

Bat Cave

No stately Wayne Manor for these bats. These are the real deal, and come nighttime some 20,000 of them stream out in search of dinner. Catch the spectacle from the deck at Arizona Canal and 40^th Street.

Arizona Biltmore

Frank Lloyd Wright consulted on the design so it’s no wonder that this swank property, which opened in 1929, has hosted everyone from movie stars to a few Commanders in Chief.

Cure your FOMO and stay in the Ocatilla wing, where everything from linens to the French press coffeemaker is a cut above.

Wrigley Mansion

Built as a 50^th-anniversaty gift to his wife by William Wrigley, Jr., of chewing gum and Chicago Cubs fame, this hill-top manse offers architecture buffs a bit of everything from Mediterranean to California Mission.

Carolina’s Mexican Food

One visit to Carolina’s and you know why this place has been going strong for almost 50 years. The flour tortillas are the stuff of legends.

Go on, you deserve this, but plan accordingly—Carolina’s is closed on Mondays.

Goldfield Ghost Town

Saddle up and head to historic Apache Trail, where visitors can see the remains of a once-thriving town. Tour the Mammoth Gold Mine (you can even pan for gold), take a ride on the only narrow-gauge train in Arizona, witness an Old West gun fight and be back in town in time for dinner.

Hole-in the-Rock (Papago Park)

Get in touch with your inner caveman, and picnic inside this red sandstone butte.

Be forewarned that a stiff wind blows through the hole nearly constantly so opt for a weighty sandwich and apple rather than a lightweight bag of chips or you’ll find yourself chasing your lunch.

Roosevelt Row       

Check out this cool section of town, filled with boutiques, art galleries and hip eateries. The area comes alive on the first Friday of the month (6 p.m. to 10 p.m.) with live performances and vendors.

Heard Museum

Dedicated to the advancement of American Indian art, the museum houses a world-class collection. Artists and dancers bring their craft alive each March for the 2-day Indian Fair and Market.

READ MORE: Good Times in the Big Easy

Cactus League Spring Training

Grab some peanuts and Cracker Jacks, and take yourself out to the ballgame. Pro tip: For the widest selection of seats, aim for a weekday game in early March.

Las Noches de Las Luminarias

For those lucky enough to be spending the holidays in Phoenix check out the luminaria display in the Desert Botanical Gardens. More than 8,000 hand-lit lights, carolers and some holiday-themed adult beverages ensure a good time.

Camelback Mountain.

Lace up your hiking boots and prepare to climb. If you make it to the top at sunrise or sunset—some 2,704 feet up—you will be rewarded with a spectacular view of Phoenix and some serious bragging rights.