I know it’s hot outside and the thought of going to the dessert may or may not sound appealing. However, Phoenix is a great place, with lots of fun things to do all-year-round and plenty of attractive city hotels that always seem to be available at reasonable prices. Also, keep in mind, your entire vacation doesn’t have to be spent outdoors. Below, I listed three things to do if you decide to visit the most populous and well known of all the Arizona cities.

Heard Museum: While in the city of Phoenix, be sure to check out the Heard museum. This attraction is perfect for art lovers. It houses over 30,000 pieces. The museum offers a mix of permanent and temporary exhibits. They also host some pretty cool annual events such as the World Championship Hoop Dance Contest. If you are interested in attending, it takes place every February. The Heard Museum Guild Indian Fair and Market is pretty neat as well. It is held every March. Transportation to the museum shouldn’t be a problem. If you’re not driving or would rather not, take the Metro light rail, there’s a station near the museum.

Chase Field: If you are a baseball fan, take in a game at Chase field. If you are worried about the weather, particularly the heat, don’t. The stadium has a retractable roof and air conditioning. It was definitely built with the Arizona climate and comfort in mind.

If you would like to visit the stadium but not necessarily to go to a game, you can. Consider having a meal (lunch or dinner) at Friday’s Front Row Sports Grill, located at the stadium. It’s open everyday of the year. However, please note, if you decide to go on a game day, you will need to call ahead and you will be required to purchase tickets to eat, but not to go to the ball game. If you decide to go to a game, you can and your food will be discounted. Half the price of your ticket will go towards your lunch or dinner bill (food and drink).

If your hotel is located near a Metro light rail station, you can take it to the stadium which is located downtown. Guided tours of Chase Field are also available.

Desert Botanical Garden: If you decide to brave the outdoors, consider visiting the Desert Botanical Garden, which has received accreditation by the American Association of Museums. It is one of fewer than 50 botanical gardens to have received that distinction. You’ll find one of the best desert plant collections in the United States. The garden is over 50 acres and even features rare and endangered desert plants. The Desert Botanical Garden is located in central Phoenix (Papago Park).

If you feel it is time to visit the truly wonderful city of Phoenix, don’t forget to check out our many reasonable Phoenix Hotels.