Your complete guide to Top 10 restaurants, hotels, and things to do in Phoenix. Things to Do, Eat & Stay â plus curated category hubs for Arizona, United States.
Desert metropolis built around big skies, pool decks, and trailheads.
Stats from public records. Verify before travel. Last reviewed 2026.
| Population | approximately 1.6 million (2020 census, city) |
|---|---|
| Area | approximately 1,300 km² (500 sq mi) (large desert footprint) |
| Elevation | approximately 330 m |
| Founded / established | Salt River oasis settlement; post-war Sun Belt growth |
| Time zone | MST (no daylight saving, UTCâ7) |
| Nearest airport | Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) |
| Languages | English, Spanish widely spoken |
| Nicknames | Valley of the Sun |
Top places, ranked lists, and details by category.
Bacon-wrapped dogs with beans, onions, and condimentsâfood truck and street staple.
Tacos, enchiladas, and carne asada at spots across the Valley.
Milkshakes made with local datesâroad-trip and desert tradition.
Phoenix claims the chimichanga; green chile common on menus.
Outdoor dining and drinksâlifestyle staple in good weather.
Phoenix sprawls; a car is typical. Light rail runs through downtown, Tempe, and Mesa. Summer heat is extremeâplan indoor or early-morning outdoor time.
October through April is pleasant; June through August demands AC, hydration, and shade. Sonoran cuisine, Mexican food, and pool-side dining are everyday.
Monsoon storms in summer bring sudden downpours; avoid washes when flooded. TopTenAtlas helps you choose food, employers, and neighborhoods.