The Best Time to Visit Phoenix, Arizona
Cloudless skies, warm temperatures and more than 300 annual days of glorious sunshine – the weather in Phoenix is pretty perfect year-round. Even during the hottest months, the low humidity encourages activities such as exploring downtown’s vibrant street murals and immersing yourself in the unique desert ecosystem. So, when is the best time to visit Phoenix?
Winter marks high season in Phoenix, attracting numerous “snowbirds” from the US and Canada who seek the Valley of the Sun’s warmer climate. Consequently, hotel rates often peak during this time. However, spring and fall offer equally appealing conditions, with pleasant weather complemented by cooler mornings and evenings. While summer temperatures can be intense, they don’t deter visitors. The monsoon season introduces brief yet refreshing rain showers, cooling off the arid landscape and providing an excellent opportunity to explore local museums or relax by hotel pools, as well as enjoy the refreshing lakes and rivers.
Continue reading for a month-to-month overview that includes detailed weather patterns, average accommodation costs, and popular activities to help you maximize your time in Arizona’s vibrant capital.
High Season: October to May
Ideal for outdoor activities and witnessing desert blooms
During these months, you’ll find the weather generally pleasant, with the need for only a light jacket or sweater to enjoy the outdoors. Outdoor enthusiasts can easily fill their days golfing at one of Phoenix’s eight golf courses (five of which are championship-level) or marveling at iconic saguaro cacti at the Spur Cross Ranch Conservation Area.
Low Season: June to September
Best for enjoying professional sports
Although Phoenix becomes increasingly hot from late spring through summer, this climatic shift also offers an opportunity to enjoy indoor activities. Catch MLB games with the Arizona Diamondbacks in an air-conditioned stadium, engage in shopping, or savor solitude in the city’s rich array of museums and galleries. Additionally, summer often features discounted accommodations and activities, particularly for golf enthusiasts.
January
As much of the nation faces frigid temperatures, January presents a wonderfully pleasant climate in Phoenix, with average highs of 67°F and lows of 44°F. Although event schedules are relatively sparse early in the year, this cooler weather attracts runners to an exciting range of races, including the Rock ‘n’ Roll Arizona marathon, which showcases the stunning red rocks of Greater Phoenix.
Key Events: Rock ‘n’ Roll Arizona, Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Auction
February
February receives a significant influx of golf enthusiasts attracted to the Waste Management Phoenix Open. This month also presents a fantastic opportunity to explore local dining and craft brews at various events across the city, along with the chance to learn about Indigenous culture at the Heard Museum, host to the world championship hoop dancing competition.
Key Events: Waste Management Phoenix Open, Arizona Beer Week, World Championship Hoop Dance Contest, Devour Phoenix
March
Spring training dominates the sports calendar in March, as Major League Baseball teams participate in the Cactus League, playing at venues throughout the city. With temperatures typically reaching the mid-70s, March is also an excellent time for desert hikes, particularly in areas like the Phoenix Sonoran Preserve, which showcases blooming wildflowers and cacti.
Key Events: Arizona Aloha Fest, Cactus League Spring Training, Heard Museum Guild Indian Fair & Market
April
April features a colorful array of festivals and events that celebrate Phoenix’s diversity. Motor sports fans can enjoy NASCAR races, while enthusiasts gather for Arizona Bike Week’s rally and music festival. Various cultural events also highlight the region’s flavors, including celebrations dedicated to tacos and Renaissance-themed activities.
Key Events: Arizona Taco Festival, March NASCAR Weekend, Arizona Renaissance Festival, Arizona Bike Week
May
May continues to attract travelers, with average highs around the mid-90s. Towards the end of the month, visitors may thin out, providing an excellent opportunity to embrace al fresco dining in the city’s lush green spaces. Picnicking at places like Encanto Park offers relaxation, where you can fish or row in the lagoon. Evenings present mild temperatures, perfect for enjoying cocktails on a rooftop deck while watching the sunset over the Sonoran Desert.
Key Events: Cinco de Mayo Phoenix Festival
June
As temperatures rise, often exceeding 100°F, hotel prices begin to fall, making luxury accommodations in Phoenix more accessible. While major festivals may be on hiatus, local sporting events, such as MLB’s Arizona Diamondbacks and the WNBA’s Phoenix Mercury, continue to attract fans to indoor venues throughout the summer.
July
July tends to be the hottest month in Phoenix; however, it is also when many locals venture to cooler areas, making it easier to secure a spa appointment or dinner reservation at top-rated restaurants.
Key Events: Scottsdale Annual 4th of July Celebration, Creekwest Summerfest
August
As the heat begins to subside, August offers dry conditions and temperatures in the 80s during early mornings and evenings. This pleasant weather invites evening adventures, such as Flashlight Nights at the Desert Botanical Garden, where you can discover nocturnal desert life. A day trip to Tonto National Forest can also reward visitors with picturesque trails surrounded by streams and pine forests.
September
With the arrival of September, the intense heat of summer starts to wane, and the city comes alive with various festivals and events. Arizona Restaurant Week highlights southwest and international cuisine while raising funds to support families in need. This period sees a resurgence in tourism, yet reasonable accommodation rates are still available.
Key Events: Arizona Restaurant Week, Red Rocks Music Festival, Mask Alive! Festival of Masks
October
As harvest season begins, October brings refreshing crispness to the air with temperatures averaging mid-60s. These weather patterns set the stage for outdoor fairs and festivals, celebrating craft beer culture alongside community arts.
Key Events: Arizona State Fair, Gilbert Oktoberfest, Scottsdale Art Walk
November
November witnesses an increase in tourism and hotel rates as visitors flock to Phoenix for enjoyable weather and lively activities. Noteworthy events in the month include the annual wine festival featuring Arizona’s expanding wine regions, as well as the lively Phoenix Pride celebration.
Key Events: Phoenix Pride, Fountain Festival of Fine Arts & Crafts, Uncorked Arizona Wine Festival
December
December ushers in cooler temperatures averaging in the mid-60s, marking the arrival of the holiday season. Phoenix embraces the festive spirit with numerous events, one notable tradition being Holidays at the Heard, showcasing Indigenous crafts and live music. If planning to visit Phoenix in December, early arrangements are essential, as varying tourist numbers can cause accommodation prices to rise, particularly during weekends and holiday periods.
Key Events: Holidays at the Heard, Las Noches de Las Luminarias, Phoenix Festival of the Arts, Fried Chicken & Wings Festival
