Uniquely Arizona video: 10 weirdest things to see and do
From Chloride to Santa Claus to a giant green tiki head perfect for selfie stops, Arizona is full of unexpected things to see. Here are the 10 best.
The 10 iconic spots in metro Phoenix you must visit poll launched last week, with 10 worthy contenders going head to head in a reader poll to determine the best can’t-miss spots for first timers, taking your family or friends, or for those who just have a layover.
Round 1 of voting closed with hundreds of readers voting to determine the three finalists. The top three have made it to the second round of the iconic spots in metro Phoenix you must visit poll.
Vote for your favorite before midnight on Sunday, Oct. 5. The winner of the most iconic spot in metro Phoenix you must visit poll will be announced on Wednesday, Oct. 8.
But first, let’s meet the final three contenders.
Vote on the best metro Phoenix spots for new visitorsMusical Instrument Museum
The Musical Instrument Museum isn’t just a museum: It’s a full-on sonic journey through global sound. Nestled in north Phoenix, the museum houses over 13,000 instruments from more than 200 countries.
What makes it an iconic Phoenix experience is how interactive it is. With headphones provided upon entry, you can walk past exhibits and hear the instruments being played in their home cultures — whether it’s a Chinese guzheng, a Nigerian talking drum or Johnny Cash’s guitar.
The Artist Gallery features legendary performers like Taylor Swift, Elvis, and Celia Cruz, but what truly cements this museum as a must-visit is its immersive Experience Gallery, where you can play gongs, harps, and other instruments.
Camelback Mountain in Phoenix
Camelback Mountain is the hike that defines Phoenix. If there’s one trail that’s become a rite of passage for locals, snowbirds, and celebrities alike, it’s this one.
Towering in the heart of the Valley, the mountain is instantly recognizable for its camel-shaped silhouette and is home to two of the most popular and grueling summit trails: Echo Canyon and Cholla. It’s not a walk in the park — expect steep inclines, scrambling over rocks, and zero shade. Just be warned: This hike is no joke. If you’re not a seasoned hiker or you show up at noon in July with no water… well, that rescue helicopter might end up being your ride down.
However, the payoff is a jaw-dropping, 360-degree view of Phoenix that feels downright cinematic. Katy Perry, Luke Bryan, Michael Phelps and JJ Watt, have all laced up their boots to take on Camelback, making it a star-studded stomping ground.
Desert Botanical Garden
The Desert Botanical Garden is a true Phoenix gem, showcasing the rugged beauty and diversity of the Sonoran Desert like nowhere else. Tucked inside Papago Park, this 140-acre garden is home to more than 50,000 arid plants, with trails that wind through towering cacti, vibrant wildflowers, and rare succulents.
It’s not just a place to admire desert flora; it’s a living museum that offers art installations, seasonal light shows like Las Noches de las Luminarias, and even concerts under the stars. Whether you’re a nature lover or just want that perfect golden hour photo, the Garden offers a peaceful escape and an iconic slice of Phoenix’s natural soul.
Got a story you want to share? Reach out at Tiffany.Acosta@gannett.com. Follow @tiffsario on Instagram.
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