When trying to decide what time of year to visit Phoenix, you'll discover that this vibrant Sonoran Desert city offers something special in each season. Phoenix's dry heat might be more comfortable than a humid climate, but make no mistake: Hot is hot, and it's not unusual for summer temps to top 100 degrees. However, the summer months are also an excellent time to take advantage of great deals on hotels and discounted golf course rates. In the spring and fall, America's sunniest city typically has highs in the mid-80s to low-90s, and it's peak season for a variety of fun outdoor festivals. Visit in March through May to see the desert come alive with wildflowers. In winter, average temps hover in the comfortable mid-60s range, and patio dining is still pleasant. Although it cools off at night in the desert, you can certainly leave the winter mittens at home.

Dramatic vistas of nearby mountains and the incredible diversity of the desert offer plenty of fun activities that are uniquely Phoenix. Take a trip to the Desert Botanical Garden, go on an early morning hike on the trails of the Phoenix Mountain Preserve or Camelback Mountain, or get into the swing of things at one of the area's 200+ golf courses. For some air-conditioned indoor activities, you can learn about Native American history at the Heard Museum and take the kids on an educational outing at the Arizona Science Center. Shopping enthusiasts can go to nearby Scottsdale's Fashion Square Mall, which also has a movie theater. At the end of the day enjoy a meal at local favorites Barrio Cafe, Pizzeria Bianco or Ollie Vaughn's.

This Phoenix metro area is known for hosting big sporting events, including Cactus League Spring Training, the Waste Management Phoenix Open, PlayStation Fiesta Bowl and the 2020 NASCAR Championship Weekend. This is in addition to the city's regular season pro football, baseball, basketball, soccer and hockey games. Beyond sports, you'll find a variety of local parades, culinary and cultural festivals and big concerts. Some of the most popular events are the Fiesta Bowl Parade in Downtown Phoenix, the Arizona Taco Festival in Scottsdale and the July 4th Tempe Town Lake Festival in Tempe. The annual Arizona State Fair's Coliseum Concert Series features a great lineup of popular musical acts each year.