We are so excited to welcome you to Arizona! If you have extra time during your visit, the Phoenix area offers beautiful desert scenery, museums, shopping, dining, and plenty of places to explore. Here are a few of our recommendations for enjoying the area before or after the wedding festivities. Please check each destination’s website for current hours, admission information, and reservations.

Desert Botanical Garden

Experience the beauty of the Sonoran Desert while exploring winding trails filled with cacti, desert plants, seasonal exhibits, and incredible scenery.

Located near Tempe and Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, the garden is a great choice for guests looking for a distinctly Arizona experience without committing to a strenuous hike. Advance reservations are recommended.

Tempe Town Lake and Downtown Tempe

Take a walk along Tempe Town Lake, rent a kayak or pedal boat, or explore the restaurants, shops, and nightlife surrounding downtown Tempe and Mill Avenue.

This is an especially convenient option for guests staying at Canopy by Hilton Tempe Downtown.

Papago Park

Papago Park is a convenient place to enjoy Arizona’s red rock scenery without traveling far from Tempe or Phoenix.

Visitors can explore the park’s walking trails and visit the well-known Hole-in-the-Rock formation for a beautiful desert view. Please bring water, wear appropriate shoes, and avoid hiking during unusually hot conditions.

Old Town Scottsdale

Spend a few hours exploring Old Town Scottsdale’s restaurants, boutiques, art galleries, museums, and Southwestern atmosphere.

Old Town is a great option for shopping, brunch, dinner, drinks, or simply walking around and enjoying the area.

Musical Instrument Museum

The Musical Instrument Museum is a unique indoor attraction celebrating music and cultures from around the world.

Guests can explore extensive galleries, see instruments from across the globe, and enjoy interactive musical experiences. It is a great option for families, museum lovers, or anyone looking for an indoor activity.

Heard Museum

The Heard Museum in Phoenix is dedicated to American Indian art, history, and culture.

Its exhibitions feature both traditional and contemporary works, making it a meaningful option for guests interested in learning more about the Indigenous cultures and artists of the Southwest.

Explore Beyond the City

Guests with an additional day may enjoy exploring the Superstition Mountains, Canyon Lake, or the Apache Trail area east of Mesa.

These destinations are farther from the wedding weekend activities, so please plan ahead, check current road and weather conditions, and allow plenty of travel time.

Usery Mountain Regional Park

Usery Mountain Regional Park offers beautiful Sonoran Desert scenery and a variety of trails ranging from easy walks to more challenging hikes.

Located near Mesa, it is an especially convenient option for guests staying close to Stonebridge Manor or Home2 Suites. Please bring plenty of water, wear appropriate footwear, and check current weather and trail conditions before visiting.

Outdoor Reminder

Arizona temperatures can remain warm in late October. If you plan to hike or explore the desert, bring plenty of water, wear appropriate footwear, and check current weather and trail conditions before heading out.