CityScape: Phoenix

With its year-round balmy climate, Phoenix, Ariz., serves as the perfect getaway. Grab your sunglasses – we’re headed to Phoenix!

PLAY

Start with Desert Botanical Garden, where you’ll find a variety of exhibits and tours highlighting indigenous cactuses and other desert plants. Jump from flora to fauna and head over to Phoenix Zoo, home to over 3,000 animals from environments ranging from the American Southwest to Africa. Adventurous visitors should check out Camelback Mountain, a common destination for hiking. Don’t miss Heard Museum, an arts and crafts museum highlighting the works of native cultures.

STAY

For a splurge, head to The Camby, Autograph Collection, featuring locally inspired artwork, upscale guest rooms and a rooftop pool, or the AAA Four Diamond Rated Sanctuary Camelback Mountain, a peaceful spot offering lavish suites and houses. Closer to downtown you’ll find the Renaissance Phoenix Downtown with newly renovated guest rooms or the Hilton Garden Inn Phoenix Downtown, housed in a former bank with an art deco style and lively social scene.

FIND AND BOOK A HOTEL WITH AAA IN PHOENIX

DINE

Pay a visit to Heritage Square, where you’ll find Pizzeria Bianco and its sister restaurant, Pane Bianco, where you must try the housemade mozzarella sandwich. Head to Different Pointe of View for panoramic views and spectacular food or Quiessence for seasonal New American cuisine. Try the Sierra Bonita Grill for killer Southwestern flavors or Bobby Q for some hearty barbecue in an energetic atmosphere.

Check out more buzzworthy destinations at AAA.com/CityScape.