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Phoenix

Desert sunsets, Roosevelt Row murals & drive-in nights

Browse Phoenix

Phoenix does things its own way: desert sunsets behind Camelback Mountain, the murals and galleries of Roosevelt Row, and retro Americana like a nine-screen drive-in that still packs cars in every night. Our first local picks pair the West Wind Glendale 9 Drive-In with Fair Trade Cafe, the longest-standing Latina-owned coffeehouse in the city. More hand-picked recommendations are on the way – filter by category and budget below.

Phoenix at a glance

  • Ideal stay: 2 to 3 days
  • Best time to visit: October to April
  • Highlights: Roosevelt Row and desert hikes
  • Where to stay: Downtown / Roosevelt Row
  • Local picks: a growing set of hand-chosen tips
  • Getting around: light rail downtown; car for the rest

Where to stay in Phoenix

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Roosevelt Row

Fair Trade Cafe

Why it matters: founded in 2007 by former teacher Stephanie Vasquez, this is the longest-standing Latina-owned cafe in Phoenix – and every cup is fair-trade sourced. It is also simply the Roosevelt Row hangout: local art on the walls, in-house baking, and downtown’s best people-watching patio. Order the horchata latte and settle in.
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Glendale

West Wind Glendale 9 Drive-In

One of America’s great surviving drive-ins: nine screens of first-run movies under the desert sky, tickets around $8.50, and concessions that run from popcorn to tacos. Come early for a good spot, tune your car radio, and note the bonus local secret – on Saturday and Sunday mornings the lot becomes the Glendale Public Market with produce, handmade goods and live music.
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From our home city

Visiting New York City on this trip?

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Before you go

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Phoenix travel FAQ

How many days do you need in Phoenix?

Two to three days covers downtown, Roosevelt Row, a desert hike and a drive-in night - add more for Sedona or Grand Canyon day trips.

Where is the best area to stay in Phoenix?

Downtown and Roosevelt Row keep you near the light rail, the murals and the best coffee; Scottsdale and Camelback suit resort trips.

What are the best things to do in Phoenix?

Browse the local picks above, from the classic nine-screen drive-in to the city's longest-standing Latina-owned cafe.

What is the best time to visit Phoenix?

October to April brings warm, dry perfection; summer is very hot - plan mornings and pools.

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