April 23rd, 2010 | Author: Travel Poster
Phoenix, Arizona is one of the most popular traveler destinations in the US during winter months, but with great regional Southwestern cuisine, its distinctive desert landscape and its proximity to the Grand Canyon and Sedona, Arizona it’s a great place to visit for a long weekend or a week, any time of year.
The city’s location on the Interstate 10 freeway, the major east-west route through the southern United States, means that there are many, many cheap hotels in Phoenix from which to choose. Naturally all the major chains are represented, and on a recent trip I was pleased to find that accommodation prices were noticeably lower than other major metropolitan areas in the US, certainly lower than the East Coast. I also found restaurant prices to be very reasonable.
If you enjoy hiking or bicycling and you’re in Phoenix during non-summer months, you’re in for a treat with Camelback Mountain, Papago Park and Piestewa Peak (if you’re feeling fit!) nearby. Bikes are easily rented, and even if you just do a hike, you’ll be amazed at the stark beauty of the Southwest desert.
By all means do some shopping in Scottsdale, which is Phoenix’s area of upscale nightlife and high-end restaurants. You might find yourself reminded of Beverly Hills in the desert in Scottsdale, with its designer shops and first-class malls.
Regardless what time of year you visit you should take a road trip up to the Grand Canyon if you can make the time. It’s roughly five hours north of Phoenix, and even the drive up is quite spectacular as you go from low desert to high desert. Everyone should see the Grand Canyon at least once, and Phoenix is an ideal hub from which to make this side trip, which could potentially be done in one long day if time is limited.
Sedona, Arizona is another unique Arizona destination, with its amazing red rock formations and new-age feel. If you feel like you deserve a splurge, Sedona has many high-end spas where you can be pampered to your heart’s content.
Phoenix has enough in the way of activities and natural wonders nearby to easily warrant a week’s holiday there. While it’s certainly pleasant in the winter months the spring and fall can also be quite temperate and comfortable too.