Walk the Rio Salado wetlands for birds south of downtown

Summer is Phoenix's low season, and many resorts price packages well below winter from roughly June to September. Look for offers with resort credits or a waived resort fee, and compare each package against the standard rate. Pick a property with a good pool and plan outdoor time early in the day before the heat…

The Arizona Biltmore opened in 1929 with precast Biltmore Blocks made on site and inspired by Frank Lloyd Wright's textile blocks. Architect Albert Chase McArthur designed it, and Wright consulted for four months in 1928. Even if you stay elsewhere, the resort runs history tours that usually start in the lobby and are…

Arizona Matsuri is a free two-day Japanese cultural festival held each February at Steele Indian School Park. Expect taiko drumming, martial arts demonstrations, cosplay, food vendors and a beer and sake garden. A parade starts the day, so arrive in the morning and bring sunscreen for the open park. The Japanese…

Each March the Heard Museum holds its Indian Fair and Market, a juried weekend with Native artists from more than 100 tribal nations. Go on the first day for the best selection and buy tickets at the gate or in advance. Take Valley Metro light rail to the Encanto/Central stop, rather than hunting for parking, and…

Crescent Ballroom, in a downtown building that began as a garage in 1917, books live music nearly every night, from national touring acts to local bands. Cocina 10, the on-site kitchen, serves dinner before or after the show. Check the calendar early, because popular nights sell out. Valley Bar, a sister venue in a…

The Rhythm Room on Indian School Road has been a Phoenix blues and roots club since 1991, with national acts on its calendar most nights. Owner Bob Corritore has announced that the club will close for good on May 30, 2027, so the current season is the farewell run. Check the calendar, buy tickets for the acts you want…

Phoenix Park 'n Swap is a sprawling open-air swap meet on East Washington Street with more than 1,000 vendors and food stalls, a local fixture since the 1960s. It runs on selected days, with midweek evening and busy weekend sessions, so check the schedule first. Arrive early for parking and cooler weather, wear…

Under the federal Indian Arts and Crafts Act, art sold as Native American made must be produced by a member of a recognized tribe or a certified Indian artisan. Southwest jewelry is easy to find around Phoenix, so ask for the maker's name and tribe and get a receipt that lists both. If you are unsure, request written…