2026 Maricopa County Travel Guide: must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transport & travel experiences (updated in September)

I don't know a lot about cars but I love the history of them and all the info. They all were beautiful. Each car had a stand in front of it displaying info about the vehicle. The price was very reasonable to get in and everyone working there was so nice. We really appreciate being able to not only touch but sit in them to get the full experience. If it weren’t due to hunger striking we would have been here even longer. The staff was friendly and they were walking around in case we had questions. The place is also very clean and well kept. There is also a nice small arcade and gift shop. I would recommend for everyone. #wheretogo #bestplace #bestview #awesomepic #mytripvlog #celebratewithtrip #best_trip_by_trip #bestplace #recommended #besttimeever #bestdeal #awesometrip #tripcom

#AquariumTravel #AmericaTravel #Aquarium #America #PlacesToVisitForAnimalLover #UnderwaterAnimals Location: OdySea Aquarium, Scottsdale, Arizona, USA. This is the largest aquarium in the Southwest of America. There are more than 300 species of aquatic animals, more than 6,000 aquatic animals. Strange-looking aquatic animals like turtles are thought to be from ancient times. They look very strange. We went inside. The stairs were surrounded by glass. We could see aquatic animals in all directions. It was like going through an underwater tunnel. Even in the bathroom, we could see animals swimming. This is one of the most interesting aquariums in the world. The location is in the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian community in Scottsdale. Open daily from 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. You can book online or buy tickets at the front.

Our first time river tubing was an absolute blast! We went as a family and had so much fun bouncing along the river. I paired up with my 8-year-old, and he adored every moment—splashing, spinning off rocks, and soaking in the beautiful scenery. The guides were excellent—fun, engaging, and clearly passionate about their work. They struck the right balance, being entertaining yet firm when necessary. Afterwards, we could shower and change with provided clean towels and lockers, making everything hassle-free. To top it all off, we even got a meal while drying off. Highly recommend this experience—it’s fantastic fun and totally worth it!

South Mountain Park#S.mt.park #ScorpionGulch Scorpion Gulch if in pPgoenix take Central To the South all the way will run into the entrance of the South Mountain Park wonderful hiking,horseback riding available take the park road upon entering to the left to the top of the mountain to see the most amazing sunsets of the west

in Mesa, Arizona #travel2026 #mesaarizona #arizona #SaguaroLake

Phoenix city adventures start best at the Cambria Downtown Phoenix Convention & Airport Hotel!🌟 If you’re hunting for a stellar stay with sky-high style and ultra-comfy rooms, this spot delivers every step of the way. The bathroom mirrors are a total highlight—hello, flawless selfie lighting! Plus, the night shift front desk superstar Rose makes late check-in feel like coming home, truly above-and-beyond hospitality. 🙌 Location couldn’t be better—right at 222 E Portland St. Nestled close to buzzing attractions like Roosevelt Row’s hip murals and local eats, you’ll find most things within easy walking distance. Inside, the hotel rocks modern design with splashes of color and cozy lounge vibes. Enjoy the rooftop bar’s lively atmosphere for those sunset drinks or head to the on-site restaurant for a quality bite—no need to venture out when you’re craving convenience. Rooms are spacious, well-kept, and packed with comfort! Expect soft beds, sleek furnishings, and thoughtful extras like a fridge for those late-night snacks. Everything is super clean, so you can kick back after a day exploring. And if you ever need anything—extra towels, help with your plans—the staff are quick to deliver, genuinely friendly, and always ready to make your stay memorable. For booking, trip.com is the spot offering great deals and smooth reservations. Pro tip: snag a higher-floor room for awesome city views and quicker access to the rooftop bar. Pair your Phoenix stay with walks around Roosevelt Row or a quick Lyft to the Arizona Science Center for a splash of local culture. #Phoenix #DowntownHotel #CambriaHotel #InstaWorthy #TripComTips

All Aboard for Scottsdale’s Train Lover’s Paradise 🚂🎡 If you love trains—miniature, historic, or the real deal—Scottsdale’s McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park and its neighboring attractions deliver a family-friendly adventure packed with nostalgia, giggles, and top Insta moments. Start your railway journey at the Model Railroad Building, where intricate miniature landscapes spark big imaginations! Head over to the Scottsdale Railroad Museum for a hands-on look at history—your kids will love the interactive displays (don’t miss the close-up panel featuring vintage train snapshots from 1907–1920, perfect for detail-rich photos). Then, let loose at the playground by Stillman Station before hopping on the park’s iconic train ride—watch for the shaded areas while queuing, especially midday. Photo ops are everywhere: snap the gleaming locomotives at golden hour, get a shot of your group aboard the train, and capture those fun-fueled playground moments. For that up-close historic look, position your camera low near the display panel for crisp details and story-rich visuals. Insider Tips: · Arrive early (before 11 AM) to beat the crowds and Arizona heat—shade is limited! · Hydrate often, bring sunscreen, and hats for little ones (playground is mostly outdoors). · The train ride is gentle but hold on to your belongings, especially cameras. · Museum welcomes curious little hands, but stay mindful of posted rules near preserved displays. · Parking is free and plentiful but can fill quickly on weekends. #Scottsdale #RailroadPark #FamilyFun #TrainAdventure #ArizonaDays

#hellohalloween #stunningview #attractive #UseryMountainPark #MesaArizona #DesertTrails #AdventureAwaits #HelloHalloween #NatureEscape #HikingHeaven #ArizonaVibes Nestled at the edge of Mesa, Arizona, Usery Mountain Regional Park is a desert paradise where towering cacti, rugged cliffs, and golden sunsets create pure southwestern magic. 🌵🌄 Spread across 3,600 acres, this park offers a mix of adventure and serenity for hikers, bikers, and nature lovers alike. 🥾 What to Experience: Follow the iconic Wind Cave Trail, where the climb rewards you with sweeping views of the Sonoran Desert. Explore quiet desert paths lined with saguaro cacti and watch for hummingbirds, jackrabbits, and desert blooms. 🌼 As dusk falls, the sky turns into a canvas of pink and gold — a perfect setting for stargazing or a peaceful evening walk. 🌅✨ 💡 Travel Tips: 📍 Location: Mesa, Arizona 🎟️ Entry: Around $7 per vehicle 🕰️ Best time to visit: November–April for cooler weather 🚴♀️ Activities: Hiking, mountain biking, picnicking, and guided ranger programs ❤️ Why You’ll Love It: Usery Mountain Regional Park captures the true essence of Arizona’s wild desert beauty — rugged, radiant, and unforgettable. 🌵🌞

I didn't expect to find a horse racing track in a desert town. I went to Turf Paradise with a friend who knows the place well. It was my first time with no experience, but I still wanted to soak up the atmosphere. Seeing other guests win big prizes was incredibly exciting! 🤩 I highly recommend this for beginners! 📍 Attraction Overview Location: Turf Paradise Racetrack in Phoenix, Arizona Type: Horse racing viewing and entertainment, suitable for beginners and horse racing enthusiasts Admission: Approximately $5 (subject to official announcements) 🚗 Transportation and Tips We recommend driving; parking is available on-site. Check the race schedule in advance to select popular races. It's recommended to wear comfortable shoes for easy access. 💡 Tips: Only small bags are allowed. Food is not allowed, but drinks and snacks are available for purchase on-site to enjoy the races.

#workshoplocation Our first Twist Stick Puppy workshop was a huge success 👏🏻 I'm so excited to be holding our first event! Everyone turned out so cute puppies! (I was actually really nervous the night before, afraid I didn't explain it clearly enough 🙊) I look forward to planning more fun and creative activities for everyone to enjoy in the future! #CityLifeSuperFun #TwistingStickPuppy #MyStudyIncident #Dog

There are many large-scale events in the United States, and I was lucky enough to participate in this amusement park event. Many of the rides inside look super fun🎠🎡 They have an all-you-can-eat package for about $20, and if you don’t buy a package, you can also spend $3 to play a single facility. Overall, it really looks like a scene in an American movie! It’s worth a visit🤩

Located not far from Phoenix, Arizona, Taliesin West is the winter residence of the renowned American architect Frank Lloyd Wright. More than just a home, it served as Wright's architectural laboratory, purposefully built in the desert. Here, he collaborated with his students to experiment with innovative architectural aesthetics. As a result, Taliesin West has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, standing as one of Wright's most beautiful and insightful gifts to the world. Frank Lloyd Wright is a highly influential architect whose career spanned over seventy years. He created numerous iconic buildings, such as the Guggenheim Museum in New York and Fallingwater in Pennsylvania, showcasing his philosophy of "organic architecture." This concept emphasizes the close relationship between architecture, the natural environment, and human habitation. At Taliesin West, visitors have the opportunity to delve into Wright's visionary world, exploring how he designed living spaces in harmony with the desert environment. From windows and flooring to furniture arrangements, every detail reflects his human-centered approach to architecture. Witness how Wright and his students experimented with design elements, making this site a truly rare and remarkable World Heritage Site. To visit Taliesin West, be sure to book tickets in advance and join a guided audio tour. Stroll through this masterpiece while listening to fascinating stories about Wright's architectural history, his students, and design explorations. It's an experience more captivating than any museum! Don't miss this unique hidden gem during your trip! 📍Address: 12621 N Frank Lloyd Wright Blvd, Scottsdale, AZ 85259

1st date

Wonderful sunset to end a great trip with friends

had a really hard time out in Phoenix

fun trip

POV: You finally get a break from mom duties and decide to dive into freedom—literally. No laundry, no snacks to make, no tiny humans yelling “Moooom!” Just me, the water, and a full send at Canon Beach Revel in Mesa. This dive was brought to you by: “Don’t call me unless someone’s bleeding.” #MomGoneWild (for 2 hours) #CanonBeachRevel #DiveTherapy #ShellyOutside #StillHeardABabyCryUnderwaterTho

#northamericatrip Arizona’s sunsets are legendary, and there’s no better way to experience them than on a scenic hike as the day transforms into a kaleidoscope of color. Hiking at sunset combines the adventure of the trail with the peaceful magic of golden-hour light, making it an unforgettable experience. One of the best places for a sunset hike is Cathedral Rock Trail in Sedona. This steep but short climb rewards hikers with panoramic views of the surrounding red rock formations, glowing in fiery shades of orange and red as the sun dips lower. The rocks seem to come alive in the changing light, creating a surreal and spiritual atmosphere. For a more desert-centric sunset, head to Pinnacle Peak Trail in Scottsdale. The trail winds through the Sonoran Desert, offering stunning views of iconic saguaro cacti silhouetted against a vibrant sky. The warm hues of the sunset paired with the cool evening breeze create an ideal environment for soaking in the beauty of Arizona’s unique desert landscape. Another excellent choice is the Doe Mountain Trail in Sedona. The flat mesa at the summit provides a perfect vantage point to watch the sunset over endless layers of red rock cliffs and distant mountains. As you hike back under the soft twilight glow, don’t forget to pause and enjoy the serenity of the desert night setting in. A sunset hike in Arizona isn’t just a trek—it’s an intimate connection to nature’s artistry, leaving you in awe long after the last light fades.

#myhiddengems **Roosevelt Dam** is a significant infrastructure project located on the Salt River in Arizona, USA. Key features include: 1. **Historical Importance**: Completed in 1911, it was one of the first major dams constructed by the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation, playing a key role in the development of the southwestern United States. 2. **Engineering Achievement**: The dam is an example of early 20th-century engineering, originally built to control flooding and provide irrigation for the surrounding desert areas. 3. **Scenic Views**: Offers stunning views of the reservoir and the surrounding rugged landscape, making it a popular spot for visitors and photographers. 4. **Recreational Opportunities**: The area around the dam provides opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, boating, and wildlife viewing. Roosevelt Dam is notable for its historical significance and its role in regional water management and recreation.

Visiting Superstition Mountain was truly fantastic. 🌄🌵 The rugged landscape and the mountain added a sense of tranquility and awe. 🚶♂️🏞️ I enjoyed wandering through the desert trails and plants, each corner revealing new beauty. 🌵🌅 This place is an ideal destination for nature and adventure enthusiasts. 🌟🌟 Superstition Mountain was an unforgettable experience! 🌄 The scenery inspired a great sense of adventure. 🤩🏜️ We enjoyed the beauty of the desert and the surrounding serenity. 🌵🚶♂️ Our journey through the amazing trails was an opportunity to appreciate nature. 🌟🌟

Spend the day here on the two mini-golf courses located in Scottsdale Arizona! It’s fun and it’s a great way to connect with your friends here. You can even order drinks through the app to get it delivered to the golf course for you!#Minigolf #Golf #Arizona #unitedstates

In the heart of the Sonoran desert, tranquility whispers its secrets to those who listen. Amidst the rustling of cacti and the embrace of nature, our dreams find solace. Imagine hiking trails that unfold vistas like paintings, each stroke of nature's brush a masterpiece. The allure of Arizona's wilderness beckons, a haven for dreamers and seekers of serenity. 🌵✨

There are several trails to walk along. From the entrance, you may have to pay a small fee and we chose the waterfall trail. When we went in January, the weather was 15 degrees with sunshine. It was easy to walk on the concrete trail. There were convenient restrooms and a beautiful view surrounded by cacti. It is a trail where we saw small children and people walking their dogs. We came on a weekday and there were quite a few people. I think if it was a Saturday, Sunday or holiday, there would definitely be a lot of people.

enjoy!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

OdySea Aquarium is so beautiful! When buying tickets, you can choose to buy tickets for the aquarium, alien hall, butterfly hall, etc. It is more time-saving and convenient to buy tickets in advance. #OdySea Aquarium #Phoenix

In childhood, bicycles represented freedom, joy, and the thrill of discovery. As adults, we recall our carefree rides with a sense of nostalgia. Jean-Paul Sartre's philosophical musings, Ivan Bunin's romantic entanglements, and Bertrand Russell's reflections—all immortalized through their bicycles. Today, with a bicycle by my side, I roam @civanaresort, exploring Arizona's splendor with youthful delight. What childhood memories do your bicycles unlock? #Civana #CivanaResort #Arizona

Getting There - Attractions - Hotels - Food & Restaurants - Shopping -

decided to rent a kayak back home Wisconsin I have multiple contacts usually go time or two during the week with my daughter before I moved here 2 years ago so I had the itch the urge went out to the Sonoran mountains here in Arizona to canyon Lake was about a hundred and sixteen degrees the water was perfect wild horses geese ducks water's clear I can see the fish and then the mountain were filled with Rams the leader had horns that curled them for gigantic it was awesome I stopped and washed them they came all the way down the mountain those three liter and to others all the way to the water 15 ft from me I didn't get too close to him but it was awesome.