ideal towns >> phoenix, az

Stunning Views from Above — in Phoenix

by Rachael Provost

Aristotle once said, “In all things of nature there is something of the marvelous.” He was talking about a bigger sky. Brighter stars. Breathtaking sunsets. He was talking about Phoenix, AZ, though he probably didn’t know it.

There’s a whole lot of outdoors to explore in Phoenix, also known as Valley of the Sun, for its reputation of having gloriously sunny days almost every day of the year. Dobbins Point, the highest outlook point in Phoenix accessible by trail, delivers majestic views that will take your breath away. At 2,300 feet, you really can see it all, and it’s stunning—views of the entire valley, from Phoenix’s cityscape to the surrounding mountain ranges, and gorgeous sunsets in the evening.

More unprecedented views can be found at Hole in the Rock at Papago Park. A series of holes in a small sandstone hill creates a window for sweeping vistas of the western part of Phoenix. Whether you choose to get to the hole from the path behind the hill, or take the more adventurous route and climb the face of the hill to reach the top, the view will be equally magnificent.

Perhaps you’re looking for a different perspective, a way to go above it all and really take in all of Phoenix. Catch the sunrise from the sky in a hot air balloon ride with unobstructed, 360-degree views of the rugged terrain of the Sonoran Desert and the wildlife that inhabits it. Or you can get up close and personal with the scenery and spend the day rock climbing or playing a game of golf in a desert canyon.

Explore the sights and sounds of the downtown area, where you’ll find art galleries, museums and restaurants full of delicious food. In Phoenix, it’s just part of the scenery of everyday life.

Savory Eateries

• 5th and Wine is the place to go when you want good food, an extensive wine bar and a comfortable atmosphere. Be sure to try the bruschetta, panini sandwiches and burgers.
• El Chorro, a school-turned-restaurant,has a menu far from typical cafeteria food (including sticky buns), and beautiful views of the prominent landmark, Camelback Mountain.
• Kai is the only Five Diamond Native American restaurant in the world, where you’ll find food influenced by Pima and Maricopa and killer views of South Mountain and the city.

Top Things To Do

• Arizona Diamondbacks Baseball “Play ball!” at Chase Field, where you can become a fan of the Arizona Diamondbacks.
• Desert Botanical Garden Explore the wonders of nature at this renowned 140-acre desert museum, where 50,000+ plant displays showcase the desert’s natural beauty.
• Hole-in-the-Rock Papago Park Holding the history of prehistoric Hohokam Indians and breathtaking vista and mountain views, these massive, otherworldly sandstone buttesset Papago Park apart, even in a city and state filled with world-class natural attractions.
• Roosevelt Row Downtown Phoenix’s walkable creative district features restaurants, boutiques and galleries for you to explore.

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