Need a few suggestions for your trip to Phoenix? I got you.

Earlier in January, my sister, Jenessa, invited me to fly to Phoenix and adventure with her for a few days. Of course, I said YES. My sister lives in Michigan and I live in Tennessee, so I’ll take any chance to see her I can get—especially if it involves travel.

My sister was in Phoenix for a work convention and I work remotely, so it worked out perfectly. (Yes, I know I said “work” three times in one sentence.) Because we only had late afternoons and evenings free, we didn’t have time for long hikes. Such a bummer! But we did manage explore some interesting places around Phoenix.

Here’s a list of where we went, plus a few restaurant options we recommend!

Desert Botanical Garden

Looking for a local recommendation? One of my sister’s friends lives in Phoenix, and she recommended the Desert Botanical Garden as a MUST.

I’m not sure exactly what I expected, but it sure wasn’t a massive garden filled with different species of cacti. And I don’t say that as a complaint. I was pleasantly surprised.

We spent well over an hour exploring the grounds, taking far too many photos, and oohing and ahhing over every cactus with a shape we’d never seen before. The rocky, mountainous views surrounding the gardens added to the authentic, desert ambiance. It was magical—and I don’t use that word lightly.

Easily, we could have spent more time there, but it was getting dark and we were hungry.

Located in Papago Park near the Phoenix Zoo, the gardens aren’t too far from downtown Phoenix or the Phoenix Sky Harbor airport.

Admission (at the time of this post) is $24.95 per adult. Check out the website for more pricing options.

Hole in the Rock Phoenix

Also located in Papago Park, Hole in the Rock is free—and just like it sounds.

It’s a rock with a hole that you can climb through to see an incredible view.

The hike (which is a stretch to call it that) is 0.3-miles out-and-back with minimal elevation gain. Kids were hiking it. Older folks were hiking it. This place is for everyone. Even dogs!

Parking right near the rock is limited, but a few other parking lots are only a short walk away, if needed.

I’ll let these photos of Hole in the Rock show you the rest. Do add this place to your list if you like free stuff and views.

Old Town Scottsdale

Multiple people recommended we visit Old Town Scottsdale, and we listened. Along 5th Avenue, we found a free parking lot, and walked across N Goldwater Blvd to the most charming stretch of shops.

If you are a souvenir connoisseur, this is your place for stuff that’s more unique. Sure, you’ll find a few typical tourist gift shops here, but most of the places we popped into offered plenty of unique options.

It was a blessing and a curse that we didn’t have more room in our carry-on suitcases.

Scottsdale Mall

A mall is on this list? Yes.

If you need a place to hang out or walk after dark—or if you need some luxury, retail therapy on your trip—visit Scottsdale Fashion Square.

When I say luxury, I’m talking Cartier, Christian Louboutin, Gucci, Louis Vuitton, and more. Of course, you’ll also find the mall basics like Abercrombie & Fitch, Madewell, Lululemon, and Pacsun.

With three levels to choose from and a decent food court, it was a casual night well spent.

Phoenix Restaurant Recommendations

Speaking of food, let’s get to it.

The Parlor

Let me start by saying, The Parlor was voted #1 pizza in Arizona by the Food Network. But we didn’t know that when we decided to eat there for dinner. My sister’s friend recommended it, and she didn’t steer us wrong.

If wood-fired pizza is your thing, this is the place to go. But pizza isn’t the only thing on the menu, so be sure to check it out.

Basil Thai Cuisine

Located in the heart of downtown Phoenix, Basil Thai is only a few blocks from the Convention Center. Jenessa and I had a craving for Asian food and this place was the real deal. While I haven’t met a teriyaki chicken and veggie dish I didn’t like, this one ranked pretty high on my list.

Go here if you’re a fan of Thai or Asian food, and I don’t think you’ll be disappointed.

The Original ChopShop

We ate at The Original ChopShop in Old Town Scottsdale after our shopping excursion and it hit the spot. The menu offers a unique array of salads, bowls, sandwiches, and more. Service was fast and the food was fresh.

It’s more of a regional chain restaurant and I wish we had one near Knoxville!

Okay. That’s all she wrote on Phoenix.

I wish we had more time, but we did have to work in between adventures. That just means we have to go back.

If you’ve been to Phoenix and have other suggestions to add, please do drop them in the comments.

Happy travels!