Winter adventure in Phoenix, AZ

by Graham McKenzie

If you have ever been to Phoenix in the deep mid-winter when skies at home are endlessly dark with rain, and wind whistling around you, then you will know. Yes, if you know, you know.

The infinite blue skies with temperatures of around 25c, dropping to a comfy 12c or 13c in the evening around an open fire, are the stuff of dreams.

A direct flight from London will take you to Phoenix, the fifth-largest US city. This vibrant Arizona metropolis offers a compelling destination with a dynamic blend of attractions, a diverse culinary scene, sports, and innovative technology. The city’s hot desert climate provides an appealing winter getaway, making it an enticing holiday choice.

Attractions and Outdoor Activities

Phoenix is famous for its unique desert landscape and outdoor attractions. Visitors can explore Papago Park, home to the Desert Botanical Garden, Phoenix Zoo, and scenic hiking trails like Hole-in-the-Rock. Cultural landmarks include the Heard Museum, which showcases Native American art and history, plus Frank Lloyd Wright’s winter home, Taliesin West. The city’s proximity to Sedona and its stunning red rock formations further enhances its appeal for nature enthusiasts.

Emerging Culinary Scene

Phoenix’s food scene is rapidly evolving, with exciting new restaurants opening in 2025. Highlights include Carmen Cantina, which brings creative Mexican street food to Tempe, and Bar Bianco’s second location offering wood-fired pizzas with locally sourced ingredients. Fast-casual options like Arizona Small Sliders also reflect the city’s growing appetite for diverse dining. In line with forward thinking destinations around the US, chefs in Phoenix represent a new generation that are bound to the local, seasonal and traditional guidelines. Meals like Mamma used to make but elevated.

Sports Hub

Phoenix is a sports lover’s hub. It hosts major professional teams like the NBA’s Phoenix Suns and MLB’s Arizona Diamondbacks. Golf fans can attend the WM Phoenix Open, one of the oldest PGA tournaments that features the famous Par 3 stadium 16^th hole where players get a raucous welcome, the tone of which depends on how close to the hole their tee shots go. Needless to say, it’s not a bad place to play golf either with a wide range of superb courses to choose from. Soccer fans can cheer for Phoenix Rising FC, a prominent USL team with a dedicated fan base. Phoenix also has a rich history of hosting major sporting events, particularly in American football and soccer. The city has hosted four Super Bowls throughout its history the latest of which was in 2023 when Patrick Mahomes led the Kansas City Chiefs to victory.

Waymo Driverless Cars

Phoenix is at the forefront of autonomous vehicle technology. Waymo operates a 315-square-mile driverless car network in the area, offering rides through its app or Uber integration. Open your regular Uber app and opt for a driverless car. A few minutes later a Jaguar iPace will be at your pickup point but with nobody at the wheel. The future of urban transportation is here in Arizona.

British Airways fly daily direct from London to Phoenix with fares starting at £579 return.

Related News Stories:  Winter adventure in Phoenix, AZ     Winter Events in Phoenix | VisitPhoenix.com     3/4 days around Phoenix in December: what I can't miss? : r/arizona     Canyon Coaster Adventure Park - Williams Arizona     Phoenix In Winter 2025: Top Attractions & Things To Do In 2025!     10 Fun Things to Do in Phoenix With Your Family This Winter — This ...     Winter Adventure & Snow Activities in Flagstaff, AZ     Flagstaff Snow Park | Flagstaff, AZ     Phoenix Snowbirds: Guide for What to Do This Winter     Flagstaff Snow Play Area Map - Discover Flagstaff