13 Unique Things to Do in Phoenix for Young Adults (Beyond the Basics!)

295

Look, I’ll be honest – I thought Phoenix was just a hot desert city with some golf courses. But after spending a few wild days exploring Arizona’s capital, I realized how wrong I was. Between hiking at sunrise in the Desert Botanical Garden (the giant saguaros against the orange sky? Unreal!) and bar hopping through Roosevelt Row at night, this city kept surprising me at every turn.

Call me crazy, but I think Phoenix is seriously underrated. The Musical Instrument Museum blew my mind, and do not get me started on the food scene here. From mountain adventures to the coolest local hangouts, these are my favorite things to do in Phoenix that made me completely change my mind about this desert gem.

Best Things to Do in Phoenix for Young Adults

Visiting Phoenix? Hike the iconic Camelback Mountain, explore the beauty of the Desert Botanical Garden, or catch live music at Crescent Ballroom. Dive into culture at the Musical Instrument Museum (MIM) and experience the vibrant energy of the city. Whether you’re into outdoor adventures, live entertainment, or unique attractions, Phoenix has plenty to offer!

1. Hike Camelback Mountain

If you’re up for a challenge and want one of the best views in Phoenix, hike Camelback Mountain. This iconic peak sits in the middle of the city and offers two main trails: Echo Canyon Trail (1.2 miles one way) and Cholla Trail (1.5 miles one way). Echo is steeper with some boulder scrambling, while Cholla has a more gradual incline—but both are tough and take around 2 to 3 hours roundtrip, depending on your pace and breaks.

I started the hike just before sunrise and watched the desert light up as I climbed. The views from the top—360 degrees of Phoenix and the surrounding mountains—are worth every drop of sweat. Bring lots of water, solid hiking shoes, and avoid midday heat. For young adults looking to kick off their Phoenix trip with a serious adventure, this is a high-energy way to do it.

• Read Next: Best Beginner Mountains to Climb in the US

2. Dive into the Desert Botanical Garden

You don’t have to leave the city to experience the wild beauty of the desert. The Desert Botanical Garden in Papago Park is home to over 50,000 plants from arid regions across the globe. Spread across 140 acres, five walking trails take you through themed gardens with towering saguaro cacti, vibrant wildflowers, and unusual species like the Boojum Tree. It’s a peaceful spot to stroll, snap photos, or just unwind in nature.

I joined an after-dark event here once and the illuminated desert landscape felt surreal—like walking through a living art installation. The garden also hosts seasonal exhibitions, food and drink tastings, and live music. General admission is around $25, and visiting in the early morning or at golden hour helps beat the heat and crowds. If you’re into plants, photography, or just chilling outdoors, this place is a standout.

3. Catch a Show at Crescent Ballroom

Right in the heart of downtown, Crescent Ballroom mixes great food, strong drinks, and live music under one roof. It’s an intimate venue, but it punches above its weight with local bands and national acts alike. The main room has solid acoustics, and there’s a cozy lounge up front where you can grab tacos, margaritas, and hang before the show. I caught an indie band here once and loved how close you could get to the stage.

Whether you’re into rock, hip hop, or experimental sounds, the lineup is always eclectic. If live music isn’t your thing, it’s still worth coming for the bar vibes and rooftop patio. Shows usually cost under $30, and it’s walkable to other bars on Roosevelt Row. It’s a relaxed yet lively way to spend a night out in Phoenix with friends.

• Read Next: Underrated Places to Visit in Phoenix

4. Check Out the Musical Instrument Museum (MIM)

The Musical Instrument Museum (MIM) isn’t your typical museum—it’s a global sound journey with over 8,000 instruments from 200+ countries. You’ll walk through galleries organized by region, pop on wireless headphones, and hear the instruments being played in their cultural context. It’s surprisingly immersive—one moment you’re hearing a Mongolian throat singer, the next you’re watching a Brazilian samba group.

One of my favorite exhibits was the artist gallery with memorabilia and instruments from icons like Elvis, Taylor Swift, and John Lennon. MIM also has a concert hall and often hosts intimate shows. Entry is around $20 for students and $22 for adults. Set aside at least two hours—it’s bigger than it looks and easy to get lost in the sounds. Whether you’re a casual listener or full-blown music nerd, MIM is a Phoenix gem.

5. Cool Off at Salt River

When it gets too hot to function in Phoenix, locals head east to float the Salt River. Located in the Tonto National Forest, this scenic river is perfect for tubing—just rent a tube, hop in, and drift with the current. The most popular float stretches about 3 miles and takes roughly 2 to 3 hours, though longer routes can last up to 5 hours. It’s lazy, refreshing, and full of beautiful desert views.

We went on a Saturday and saw wild horses along the riverbank—total highlight. Bring sunscreen, water shoes, and something to secure your phone. Companies like Salt River Tubing offer shuttle service and rentals starting around $22 per person. It’s a laid-back, no-stress way to cool off, hang with friends, and see a different side of Arizona’s landscape without needing to hike or drive far.

6. Roam Roosevelt Row

If you want to experience Phoenix’s artsy, offbeat side, head to Roosevelt Row. This walkable district is packed with massive murals, local art galleries, and creative spaces that constantly evolve. Street art wraps around buildings and alleyways—each wall offers something bold and different. Even just walking around with a coffee from Jobot feels like a casual art tour.

When I visited during First Fridays, the whole street turned into a party with live DJs, food trucks, and indie makers selling handmade goods. It’s easy to lose track of time exploring shops like Antique Sugar or grabbing tacos from a pop-up cart. Whether you’re there for the art, the shopping, or just the vibe, Roosevelt Row feels like Phoenix with personality. Day or night, it’s one of the most energetic and creative places in the city.

• Read Next: Beautiful Places in Arizona

7. Experience the Thrill at Phoenix Raceway

For high-speed excitement, Phoenix Raceway delivers in a big way. Set against the Estrella Mountains, this venue is home to NASCAR weekends that are loud, fast, and unforgettable. The energy in the stands is electric, especially when the engines start roaring and the race kicks off. Even if you’re not a die-hard racing fan, the adrenaline is contagious.

One of my friends signed up for the NASCAR Racing Experience and got to ride shotgun in a real stock car. Watching him zip around the track at 130+ mph was wild. Tickets for races start around $50, while driving experiences cost a few hundred. Whether you’re cheering from the grandstands or living your racecar dream, it’s a unique way to spend a day outside downtown Phoenix. Definitely a must for anyone into fast-paced adventures.

8. Head Up to South Mountain Park for Epic Views

South Mountain Park is one of the largest municipal parks in the country, and it’s right in Phoenix’s backyard. If you want desert views without a long drive, this is it. With over 50 miles of trails for hiking, biking, or horseback riding, there’s something for every skill level. The short trek to Dobbins Lookout—about 1.5 miles if you hike from the base—rewards you with one of the best panoramic views of the city.

I drove up once just before sunset, and the light spilling over the valley was unreal. You don’t even have to hike to enjoy it—the lookout is accessible by car too. Best part? It’s all free. Whether you want a scenic drive, a sweat-it-out hike, or just a peaceful place to chill, South Mountain is a solid go-to for locals and visitors alike.

9. Get Spooky at the Mystery Castle

For something quirky and totally offbeat, head to the Mystery Castle at the base of South Mountain. Built in the 1930s by Boyce Luther Gulley using scrap materials, this 18-room castle features a maze of staircases, handmade furniture, and unusual décor like petroglyphs and animal bones. He built it for his daughter, Mary Lou, after learning he had tuberculosis.

I toured it on a breezy afternoon and was surprised by how much charm and personality filled every dusty corner. From the secret trapdoors to the rooftop lookout, there’s a story tied to almost every item. Guided tours are available from October through May for about $10 (cash only), and most last under an hour. If you’re into oddball attractions and vintage desert vibes, this makes for a fun, budget-friendly stop away from the downtown scene.

10. Play Vintage Games at Cobra Arcade Bar

For a night of fun that blends retro gaming and craft cocktails, check out Cobra Arcade Bar in downtown Phoenix. This lively venue is stocked with old-school favorites like Pac-Man, Street Fighter II, and NBA Jam, plus a rotating DJ lineup that keeps the energy up late into the night.

I spent hours here on a Saturday, bouncing between games with a “Princess Peach” cocktail in hand. The place was packed but never felt overwhelming, and everyone seemed to be in good spirits—especially after a few rounds of Donkey Kong. Entry is free, and most arcade machines operate on quarters (which you can get at the bar).

The colorful neon lights and nostalgic game sounds make it a one-of-a-kind bar experience. Whether you’re into competitive gaming or just want a night out that’s different, Cobra is an easy win.

11. Hang Out at the Japanese Friendship Garden

Hidden near downtown, the Japanese Friendship Garden—also called Ro Ho En—offers a peaceful, meditative space with koi ponds, stone bridges, and a calming waterfall soundtrack. It’s a collaborative project between Phoenix and Himeji, Japan, and it nails the balance between desert minimalism and Japanese tradition.

Strolling through the gravel paths felt like stepping into a zen postcard. The garden’s tea house hosts monthly ceremonies that are worth booking in advance. Entry is $10, and it’s open from October through May when Phoenix weather is just right.

I loved watching the koi swim lazily while sipping green tea under the shade. For a break from loud bars or crowded hikes, this is the ideal spot to clear your head or catch up quietly with a friend. It’s one of the most unexpectedly peaceful experiences I’ve had in the city.

12. Experience First Fridays from Visit Phoenix

On the first Friday of every month, downtown Phoenix transforms into an open-air celebration of art, culture, and local talent. First Fridays along Roosevelt Row draw a crowd with art galleries, live music, street performers, and some of the best people-watching in town.

I came with a few friends not knowing what to expect and ended up dancing to a sidewalk DJ, sampling tacos from a food truck, and stumbling into a pop-up vintage market. It’s free to attend, and there’s no fixed route—you just wander and discover. Galleries stay open late, and there’s a fresh energy in the air from all the creative buzz.

Whether you’re an artist or just tagging along for the vibe, First Fridays offer an easy, low-budget way to connect with Phoenix’s local scene and kick off your weekend right.

13. Hit Up the Phoenix Art Museum

The Phoenix Art Museum is more than a quiet place to look at paintings—it’s a dynamic space with exhibits that span fashion, photography, classic sculpture, and contemporary installations. It’s the largest art museum in the Southwest, but it never feels overwhelming.

When I visited, a streetwear exhibit shared space with a European masterworks gallery, which kept things fresh and interesting. Admission is $23, but check their website for free admission times, often offered on Wednesdays. The museum also hosts film nights, talks, and live performances that draw a younger crowd.

The modern building layout, quiet corners, and cool temperature make it a nice midday break from the desert heat. If you’re into culture and want to balance your outdoor adventures with something more reflective, this museum deserves a spot on your itinerary.