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We get it, Arizona winters in the valley look a little different than a typical winter would on the east coast or even one state over in California or Utah, where they can get some whiteout winters! But the good thing is AZ still has plenty to do to make sure your winter is jam packed with fun from start to finish.
Scroll down to check out all the fun winter activities AZ has to offer even if that isn't a drive all the way up to Flagstaff!
Botanical Gardens
Just east of Phoenix and north of Tempe, the Desert Botanical Garden offers stunning views of the flora and fauna of Arizona in a unique landscape of the Sonoran Desert. During the holiday season, the garden is lit up along the walking paths, making a unique experience even that much more special as you learn about the 50,000 plants here and how they contribute to Arizona's geo-diversity.
Flagstaff Day Trip
Alright, we're almost positive you have heard of Flagstaff before. From the rich history of NAU, to the celebrities like Devin Booker and The Kardashians frequently visiting, it's no secret that Flagstaff offers something you just can't get in the valley. Some of the remnants of the once massive population of Ponderosa pine trees make up the majority of the forest with patches of Aspen trees and sprawling mini craters from the ancient volcano that used to be active in Mt. Humphreys.
Speaking of Mt. Humphreys, Flagstaff offers skiing and snowboarding at Snowbowl, as well as hiking trails when the weather is warmer. Don't ski? Thats just fine, Flagstaff also has a whole downtown of fine dining, shopping, and events like concerts, marathons, and everything in between to keep you entertained for your entire trip. The drive from Phoenix up to Flagstaff takes you from the Sonoran desert, into the transition zone and all the way into the Colorado Plateau, offering stunning views on your drive from start to finish. There are multiple points to stop on the way, from local BBQ in Munds Park, to scenic viewpoints by New River and more!
Hiking
You don't have to leave the valley to find something in the outdoors! Part of the Phoenix Mountains, in the Phoenix Mountain Preserve, Camelback offers the best views of the valley and has been formed over 1.7 billion years of history, so it could probably tell you a thing or two about the valley if it could talk. Hiking will have to do, and the mountain offers multiple trails that connect to the rest of the Phoenix Mountains offering stunning views in very close proximity to the town below so you can go grab a bite or do some holiday shopping after!
Sedona
Sedona is home to arguably some of the best views in the state and its only a short drive from Phoenix! Take a hike, hire a tour guide, or go eat and shop in their multiple shopping centers that offer everything from casual and fine dining to unique southwestern inspired art galleries. Make sure you bundle up! Temperatures in Sedona are lower than Phoenix due to the elevation, and in the higher parts of Sedona there can be snow!