Your Ultimate Travel Guide to Phoenix, AZ (for Conference Attendees)

Welcome to the sun-soaked desert city of Phoenix, Arizona! Whether you're here for an intense work schedule of conference sessions or you're planning to carve out some downtime to explore, this guide has got you covered. From dining and unwinding to must-see local gems, here’s how to make the most of your trip to the Valley of the Sun. 

What to Pack for Phoenix 

Packing smart is key when visiting Phoenix. Here’s the 411 to keep you prepped, comfortable, and conference-ready: 

• Layer It Up: Phoenix might be hot during the day (think highs of 100°F+ in the summer), but desert evenings can be surprisingly cool. Bring light layers, like a cardigan or jacket, especially for conference rooms blasting A/C. 

• Comfortable Shoes: Whether you're pounding the trade show floors or hiking a desert trail, comfortable shoes are a must! 

• Sunscreen, Sunglasses and a Hat: Even in the winter, Phoenix is home to bountiful sunshine. Protect your skin—and look like a desert-savvy pro while you’re at it. 

• Refillable Water Bottle: Hydration is a desert-dweller’s mantra. Prep for the dry heat by drinking plenty of water. 

• Business and Casual Attire: Phoenix leans into a “business casual” vibe, but if you’re heading out to fancy dining spots, pack at least one dressy outfit. 

Pro Tip: If you’re visiting in winter, you’re in for a treat! Temperatures hover between a pleasant 60-70°F. Summer visitors, brace for the heat—anything below 100°F feels like a breeze. 

Getting Around Phoenix 

Navigating Phoenix is (mostly) a breeze thanks to its grid-like streets and variety of transportation options: 

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• By Car: Renting a car is your best option if you want to explore beyond the conference venue. Phoenix is a sprawling city with must-see destinations like Scottsdale, Tempe, and hiking trails just a short drive away. 

• Ride Shares: Uber and Lyft are everywhere! Bonus points for being budget-friendly if you're city-bound. 

• Public Transit: The Valley Metro light rail connects central spots like Downtown Phoenix and Tempe—perfect for dining or museum-hopping without the hassle of parking. 

• Scooters and Bikes: For short-distance jaunts, docked and dockless scooters/bikes are zippy ways to get around. 

Pro Tip: Plan for extra travel time if your conference coincides with rush hour (7-9 AM and 4-6 PM)—Phoenix locals take their commutes seriously! 

Exploring Phoenix’s Local Gems 

If you’ve got some downtime, these uniquely Phoenix experiences are not to be missed: 

• Desert Botanical Garden 

Immerse yourself in the beauty of the Sonoran Desert at this stunning garden. Bonus: It's Instagram-worthy at every turn. 

• Camelback Mountain 

Up for a challenge? Hiking Camelback rewards you with breathtaking views of the city. The Echo Canyon Trail is tough but totally worth it. 

• Phoenix Art Museum 

Need an art fix? This museum offers something for every art lover, from contemporary masterpieces to fashion and photography exhibitions. 

• Papago Park & Hole-in-the-Rock  

Famous for its unique rock formations, Papago Park is perfect for a quick, scenic escape near the city. 

Pro Tip: Visiting during spring? Catch a game at Spring Training! Baseball fans will love cheering on their favorite MLB teams under the Arizona sun. 

Where to Dine, Drink, and Indulge 

Phoenix’s culinary scene has something for everyone. From casual bites to upscale dining, here are the hotspots to check out: 

Casual Bites 

• Matt’s Big Breakfast  

Start your day with hearty, scratch-made breakfast classics. 

• The Churchill  

A cool food court with local vendors serving everything from tacos to craft cocktails. 

Fine Dining 

• Kai  

Indulge in a luxurious dining experience at this Forbes Five-Star gem serving Native American-inspired cuisine. 

• Binkley’s Restaurant  

A multi-course masterpiece—perfect if you’re celebrating a deal closed at the conference. 

Cocktails & Nightcap 

• Bitter & Twisted Cocktail Parlour  

A legendary downtown spot serving wildly inventive drinks. Their cocktail menu alone is a work of art. 

• Top of the Rock Restaurant  

Sip on craft cocktails while enjoying panoramic views of the desert. 

Pro Tip: Many Phoenix restaurants feature gorgeous patios to soak up that desert sunset vibe. Ask for a seat outside if the weather’s balmy—you won’t regret it. 

Relax and Reset 

Long conference days call for some serious R&R. Phoenix knows how to pamper: 

• Spa Biltmore  

Located at the iconic Arizona Biltmore, this spa offers luxe treatments to help you recharge. 

• The Sanctuary Resort on Camelback Mountain  

Treat yourself to a massage with unbeatable views of Paradise Valley. 

• The Phoenician’s Golf Club  

Golf lovers, rejoice. With sweeping desert views and lush greens, this course offers an unforgettable experience for players of all levels. 

Pro Tip: Phoenix winters almost guarantee excellent golf weather, so why not squeeze in a round or two? 

Bringing It All Together 

Phoenix isn’t just hosting your conference—it’s rolling out the red carpet for an adventure-packed visit. From its vibrant dining scene and relaxing spas to iconic hikes and cultural spots, there’s no shortage of memories to make. 

Pack your bags and make your Phoenix trip one to remember. Safe travels!