Phoenix is the largest city in the state of Arizona.
Close to National Forests and the Grand Canyon, Phoenix is a great base to explore the wilderness.
From afar, you’ll just see skyscrapers rising against the backdrop of mountains.
But once you’ve set food on the ground, there are plenty of fun activities in town – especially after sunset!
We’ll highlight unique tours, museums for families, and romantic places to explore.
Here’s a look at all the best things to do in Pheonix at night.
1. Explore Scottsdale
Scottsdale is a large suburb east of Central Pheonix and is a resort lover’s paradise.
The area is renowned for its many luxury spas and golf courses, which are great daily activities.
The area also leads you to multiple trail routes, which can be a fun daytime adventure.
Later at night, check out Scottsdale Old Town.
This area has 1920s-styled buildings and oozes history.
The best way to explore Scottdale is to join a tour, with many leaving at sunset.
Navigate the town in style, with various segway tours in this fascinating district.
As a more affluent area, you’ll notice opulence and beauty everywhere in Scottsdale.
- Duration: 2 hours
- Sunsets, Segways & City Lights: Daily from 6:30pm
- Sunsets & City Lights Segway Tour: Daily from 5pm
2. Phoenix Ghosts Tours
Being a pretty old city by U.S. standards, it’s natural that Pheonix will have a few ghoulish tails from its history.
A ghost tour is a great and unique way to learn more about the city while giving yourself the heebie-jeebies.
In these tours, you’ll visit sites and points of interest to soak up the eerie atmosphere for yourself.
Most of these tours focus on the older parts of town, with many starting in the Historic Heritage Square.
There are tours to suit every traveler, as you can also enjoy one while stopping off at some old-timey pubs.
Ghost tours are a great evening activity, especially if you want to dig deeper into the lore of a new city.
Even though tours start after sunset, the areas explored will be very safe as you’re led by a local guide.
- Duration: 1-3 hours
- Phoenix Walking Ghost Tour: Daily from 8pm
- Phoenix Murders & Mysteries Ghost Tours: Daily from 7pm
- Phoenix Haunted Pub Ghost Tour: Wednesday to Sunday from 7pm
3. Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art (SMoCA)
Scottsdale’s Museum of Contemporary Arts is a great place to see Pheonix’s creative side.
This museum is dedicated to modern art, architecture, and design.
It has many exciting and thought-provoking exhibitions from both local and international artists.
Located in Scottdale, the metallic building is striking alongside the older-styled architecture.
All the exhibits are diverse, making for a varied and fun evening experience.
If you want an evening trip to SMoCA, visit on Thursday or Friday, as the museum is open later on these days.
- Opening Hours: Wed, Sat-Sun 11am-5pm; Thurs-Fri 11am-7pm
- Duration: 1 hour
- Address: 7374 E 2nd St, Scottsdale, AZ 85251, United States
4. Phoenix Art Museum
The SMoCA isn’t the only art gallery in town, as the Phoenix Art Museum is another must-see destination.
Here you’ll see exhibitions ranging from international folk art to modern fashion.
The Phoenix Art Museum also has an infinity mirror room that will bring out deep emotions within you.
It’s an eclectic mix of experiences here, and with a rotating gallery, each visit is different.
Most of the exhibits here are free to view, but you can also get many guided tours to help you better understand the art.
The best time for an evening visit is Wednesday, and be aware that it’s not open Monday or Tuesday.
- Opening Hours: Thursday to Sunday 10am-5pm; Wednesday 10am-9pm
- Duration: 2 hours
- Address: 1625 N Central Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85004, United States
5. Wrigley Mansion
If you’re looking for amazing views, then check out Wrigley Mansion.
Built in 1932 as an anniversary gift by William Wrigley Jr, it sits atop a nearby hill just outside the city.
This location gives visitors a fantastic view of Pheonix and the surrounding mountains.
The mansion is stunning to visit at night, complimented by the illuminated city.
Visitors can enjoy an extraordinary dining experience as they gaze into the desert.
They’re well known for the splendid wine that you can sample during your meal.
While you’re there, tour the ballroom and luxury interiors of the mansion.
When visiting, make sure to wear your best, as they have a strict dress code of Business Casual.
- Opening Hours: Wednesday to Saturday 3pm-9pm
- Duration: 1 hour
- Address: 2501 E Telawa Trail, Phoenix, AZ 85016, United States
6. Desert Botanical Gardens
Located just south of Scottsdale, this garden is a magical experience.
Here, you can walk along multiple easy tracks surrounded by countless desert flora.
See exciting plant life, including cacti and much more.
Don’t feel like you have to visit during the day, as the botanical gardens are also stunning at night.
This is because the plants are illuminated in various colors, giving you a unique view of the plants.
Plus, its more comfortable at night, thanks to lower temperatures.
As the site is large and has a lot of things to see, allow yourself a few hours to explore if you want to see everything.
- Opening Hours: Daily 8am-8pm
- Duration: 2-3 hours
- Address: 1201 N Galvin Pkwy, Phoenix, AZ 85008, United States
7. Castles N’ Coasters
Castles and Coasters is a unique, fairytale-inspired amusement park.
Here you can experience high-octane rides and other experiences like mini golf.
There are rides to suit everyone, like double-looped coasters or water-based rides.
Although family-focused, adrenaline junkies can find some fun here too.
The park looks fantastic at night and is open till 10pm daily, giving you ample time to get your theme-park fix.
The park is in Glendale, a northern area of Pheonix, making it easy to get to.
Castles and Coasters is really popular, so be sure to get a ticket in advance if you’re interested.
- Opening Hours: Daily 10am-10pm
- Duration: 3-5 hours
- Address: 9445 N Metro Pkwy E, Phoenix, AZ 85051, United States
8. iFLY Indoor Skydiving – Phoenix
Pheonix and the surrounding area are great for adventurers.
That said, you don’t have to venture far to find a crazy experience.
At iFly Indoor Skydiving, you can simulate freefall in their state-of-the-art wind tunnel.
Here a qualified instructor will help you, making skydiving a more accessible experience.
The iFly center is found in Scottsdale, making it easy to get to, and it is open well into the evenings.
The best time to experience this activity is later in the day, as it’ll be less busy, giving you more freedom to fly.
- Opening Hours: Mon-Tues 11am-7:30pm; Wed-Thurs 11am-6pm; Fri 11am-8pm; Sat 9am-9pm; Sun 9am-7pm
- Duration: 1-2 hours
- Address: 9206 Talking Stick Way, Scottsdale, AZ 85250, United States
9. Neighborhood Comedy Theatre (NCT)
Pheonix is a comedy city welcoming comedic stars like Trevor Noah, Jimmy Carr, and many more.
If you want to see an act before they make it big, check out the Neighborhood Comedy Theatre.
Here you’ll be able to watch big personalities while experiencing big laughs.
All types of comedy are enjoyed here, including sketch shows and stand-up.
However, the biggest attraction here is the improv, which will give you belly laughs for a couple of hours.
The theatre is located in Mesa, a suburb of Pheonix, but it’s worth traveling out for the experience.
- Opening Hours: Friday to Saturday from 7:30pm
- Duration: 60 to 90 minutes
- Address: 214 W Main St, Mesa, AZ 85201, United States
10. See the Sunset in Sonoran Desert
The areas around Pheonix are stunning, ranging from gorges to national parks.
One of the best is the Sonoran Desert, located around an hour from Pheonix towards the Mexican border.
Lush for a desert, this location is peaceful, tranquil, and best experienced at sunset.
On a clear day, the orange skies look stunning against the silhouette of mountains.
If you fancy trekking the area, you can join a hiking tour showing you all the magical sites.
If you want to be off your feet, you can also experience a grand off-road tour on a private Jeep.
The best time to see the Sonoran is just before 5pm, so make sure to time your visit accordingly.
- Sunset Guided Hiking Adventure: Daily from 4:30pm
- Private Bronco or Jeep Tour: 5pm
- Duration: 2-3 hours
11. South Mountain Park Night Hike
A hike around South Moutain Park can be great for those that enjoy outdoor activities.
Located pretty close to the southern border of the city, this is an accessible hike and fun to do at night.
This is one of the largest urban parks on the planet, making it a must-do for those who have the itch for exploration.
If you’re exploring the terrain at night, join a local guide who can also show you the best areas in the Park.
On this hike, you can check out fossils, rock formations, and stargaze at the sky above.
Start times can vary, but it’s best to begin just before sunset so there’s still light for most of your trek.
Once you’ve arrived at the mountain summit, you’ll have the most amazing night views of Phoenix.
- Opening Hours: Daily 5am-7pm
- Duration: 1-3 hours
- Address: 10919 S Central Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85042, United States
12. Hot Air Balloon
If you want a unique experience and get a different vantage point of Pheonix, then hop in a hot air balloon.
These rides take you high into the sky, offering views of Phenox and its desert terrain.
It’s perfect for couples and is marvelous at sunset, as the sky becomes even more picturesque at this time.
Allow plenty of time for this activity, as you’ll be in the air for around three hours.
This gives you a lot of opportunities to see the sights all around you.
There are various hot air balloon tours to try, but most are accessed a bit out of town to use the open desert space.
If you’re okay with heights and want something different, this can be the ultimate experience in Pheonix.
- Sunset Hot Air Balloon Ride: Daily from 3pm
- Duration: 3-4 hours
13. Shopping in Phoenix
Pheonix is a fast-rising city, with many people flocking to live here.
This means the commercial scene is thriving, with plenty of shopping districts to enjoy.
To get a great garment, check out the Fashion Square in Scottsdale, which is open late daily.
Also check out CityScape, a shopping area in a high-rise scrapper.
The Desert Sky Mall is the prime shopping area in Pheonix, with all the stores you’ll expect to find.
Finally, Desert Ridge is one of the better places for late-night shopping if you like big brands.
All these places have great stores to explore, plus bars, restaurants, and more.
- Scottsdale Fashion Square: Monday to Saturday 10am-9pm
- CityScape: Mon-Thurs 7am-11pm; Fri-Sat 7am-12am; Sun 7am-10am
- Desert Sky Mall: Monday to Saturday 10am-9pm
- Desert Ridge Marketplace: Mon-Sat 11am-9pm; Sun 12pm-6pm
14. Gila River Resorts & Casinos
Gila River Resort and Casinos is an excellent place for some adult entertainment.
Here you can experience the high life, enjoy various casino games and try multiple bars.
There are four properties in the area, all offering high-class entertainment.
Wild Horse Pass is an elegant option in these native tribal lands, while Vee Quiva is more focused on slots.
Lone Butte is the home poker in the area and offers other table games.
If you need an overnight stay, consider the Sheraton Grand, an unrivaled oasis.
There’s a lot to do and see at Gila River Resort and Casinos, and more than one evening here might be needed.
- Wild Horse Pass: Daily 24/7
- Vee Quiva: Daily 24/7
- Lone Butte: Daily 24/7
15. Rooftop Bars
Pheonix has a significant drinking-out culture, with many luxurious spots to choose from.
The best include rooftop bars, which give you amazing views of the city and the desert surrounding it.
Many rooftop bars are part of hotels, so we recommend staying there for the best experience.
Try the Eden Rooftop Bar at Kimpton Hotel, with its luxury jungle theme.
Floor 13 Rooftop Bar at the Hilton Garden Inn is also great.
It has an ultra-chic look and is very light, open, and airy, making it perfect for enjoying the dry evening air.
Also, consider Cottontail Lounge at W Scottsdale, to enjoy a bespoke mixology experience.
These are great options for an evening drinking and dining experience in Pheonix.
- Eden Rooftop Bar (at Kimpton Hotel Palomar): Sun-Wed 11am-11pm; Thurs-Sat 11am-12am
- Floor 13 Rooftop Bar (at Hilton Garden Inn Phoenix Downtown): Thurs-Sun 5pm-10pm; Fri-Sat 5pm-12am
- Cottontail Lounge (at W Scottsdale): Mon-Wed 10am-12am; Thurs-Sun 10am-2am
Is it safe to walk around Phoenix at night?
Many areas in Phenoix are super safe.
Scottsdale is a great location for evening activities, and crime is rare.
Downtown Pheonix is also pretty safe, and you’ll unlikely encounter any trouble.
Things To Do In Phoenix At Night For Free
There are a few activities you can do for free in Phenox.
Both SMoCA and Phoenix Art Museum are free to enter and enjoy, although some exhibitions require a fee.
Or, enjoy a stroll around Scottsdale, focusing on the beautiful old town area.
You can also do free hikes in the Sonoran Desert and South Mountain Park.
That said, we recommend paying for a guide for the best experience.
Things To Do In Phoenix At Night For Families
There are plenty of options for families looking for evening fun in Pheonix.
Castles N’ Coasters is the obvious choice, as it has a lot of fun attractions to keep children busy.
They may also enjoy the evening walks around the illuminated botanical gardens too.
Things To Do In Phoenix At Night For Couples
Due to its picturesque area, there are a lot of romantic activities in Pheonix.
The best may be a hot air balloon ride, as it’s intimate, memorable, and gives you great views of the area.
Fine dining at Wrigley’s Mansion can also be a good option, as well as a visit to some quality rooftop bars.
Where To Stay In Phoenix
- Downtown Phoenix – There are plenty of rooftop bars and restaurants open at night in this central location. Ghost tours also depart from here so it’s a convenient starting point if you want to explore Phoenix. Have a look at Kimpton Hotel Palomar which has rooms for couples and families. It’s one of the most highly-rated hotels in Downtown Phoenix. If you’re on a budget, Courtyard by Marriott Phoenix Downtown offers the best value.
- Scottsdale – Besides exploring 1920’s architecture, Scottsdale is also known to have spa resorts. The most famous one is The Phoenician, a Luxury Collection Resort. But if you want something in the heart of Old Town Scottsdale, have a look at Bespoke Inn Scottsdale or Canopy By Hilton.
Phoenix Map
Find More Phoenix Night Tours
Summary
| Phoenix at Night | Opening Hours |
| Explore Scottsdale | Daily from 5pm |
| Phoenix Ghost Tours | Daily from 7pm |
| Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art (SMoCA) | Wed 11am-5pm; Sat-Sun 11am-5pm; Thurs-Fri 11am-7pm |
| Phoenix Art Museum | Thursday to Sunday 10am-5pm; Wednesday 10am-9pm |
| Wrigley Mansion | Wednesday to Saturday 3pm-9pm |
| Desert Botanical Gardens | Daily 8am-8pm |
| Castles N’ Coasters | Daily 10am-10pm |
| iFly Indoor Skydiving – Phoenix | Mon-Tues 11am-7;30pm; Wed-Thurs 11am-6pm; Fri 11am-8pm; Sat 9am-9pm; Sun 9am-7pm |
| National Comedy Theater (NCT) | Friday to Saturday from 7:30pm |
| See the Sunset in Sonoran Desert | Daily from 5pm |
| South Mountain Park Night Hike | Daily 5am-7pm |
| Hot Air Balloon | Daily from 3pm |
| Shopping in Phoenix | Daily from 7am |
| Gila River Resorts and Casinos | Daily 24/7 |
| Rooftop Bars | Most open until at least 10pm daily |
