Phoenix Airport Layover? Guide & Tips

Top 5 Layover Ideas for Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport

If you find yourself with an extended layover at Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport, don't worry. There are plenty of exciting activities and attractions nearby to keep you entertained. Here are our top 5 recommendations:

1. Papago Park

Located just a short distance from the airport, Papago Park is a desert park filled with red rock and weather-sculpted buttes. You can explore the network of trails, enjoy a picnic in one of the covered picnic shelters, or try your hand at fishing in the lagoons. The park is ranger-patrolled for safety and offers stunning views of the surrounding area.

2. Majerle's Sports Grill

Owned by NBA All-Star Dan Majerle, Majerle's Sports Grill is a must-visit for sports lovers. The bar and grill is decked out in sports memorabilia and features several TVs for keeping up with the game. You can enjoy a meal of American favorites like burgers and chicken fingers, and if you're lucky, you might even spot some of the Suns players.

3. Phoenix Museum of History

The Phoenix Museum of History traces the city's history from 1860-1940. The museum hosts a variety of special exhibits and events throughout the year, making it an interesting and educational visit for travelers of all ages.

4. Pueblo Grande Museum

The Pueblo Grande Museum and park are built on the site of the thousand-year-old Hohokam Indian ruins. The museum features exhibits on the lifestyles of the Hohokam and other cultures of the Southwest. Both adults and children will enjoy learning about Phoenix's heritage through the displays of arts and crafts created and used by Native American tribes.

5. Mystery Castle

Built in the 1930s and '40s, the Mystery Castle is an 18-room castle constructed by Boyce Luther Gulley after he was diagnosed with tuberculosis. The castle was built from recycled materials and old bricks in honor of his young daughter. Today, the castle is open for tours and offers a unique glimpse into Phoenix's past.

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Nearby Attractions for an Extended Layover

If your layover at Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport extends beyond 12 hours, you have an excellent opportunity to explore more of what Phoenix has to offer. Here are our top 5 recommendations for attractions within a reasonable distance from the airport:

1. Desert Botanical Garden

Immerse yourself in the beauty of the desert at the Desert Botanical Garden. With more than 50,000 plants on display, the garden showcases the diverse flora of the Sonoran Desert and other deserts around the world. Visitors can wander the five thematic trails to learn about desert plants, conservation, desert living, and more.

2. Heard Museum

For a dose of culture and history, head to the Heard Museum. This museum is dedicated to the advancement of American Indian art, and it offers a comprehensive collection of traditional and contemporary art by Native American artists, as well as historical exhibits about Native American cultures.

3. Camelback Mountain

For the adventurous, a hike up Camelback Mountain is a must. The mountain offers challenging trails that lead to sweeping views of Phoenix and the surrounding desert. Just remember to bring plenty of water and sunscreen!

4. Old Town Scottsdale

Old Town Scottsdale is a bustling area known for its shopping, dining, and nightlife. Here, you'll find a blend of old-west charm and modern amenities, with plenty of art galleries, boutiques, restaurants, and bars to explore.

5. Phoenix Zoo

If you're traveling with kids, or if you're a kid at heart, don't miss the Phoenix Zoo. As one of the largest non-profit zoos in the U.S., it's home to more than 3,000 animals, including 30 species that are endangered. The zoo also offers a variety of experiences, like camel rides, a petting zoo, and a stingray touch tank.

Updated on: November 22, 2023

Layover Ideas