Most Beautiful Scenic Viewpoints Near Phoenix

Perched at a majestic 2,330 feet within South Mountain Park, Dobbins Lookout offers some of the most spectacular panoramic views of the entire Phoenix metropolitan area. Easily accessible by a scenic drive or a rewarding hike, this viewpoint is a favorite for both locals and tourists seeking to witness the city lights twinkling at night or the vibrant hues of a desert sunset. The atmosphere here is one of serene grandeur, inviting visitors to pause and absorb the vast expanse of urban landscape meeting the rugged desert. It’s an ideal spot for photography, a romantic outing, or simply to gain a breathtaking perspective of Phoenix from above. The ease of access combined with the sheer beauty of the vista makes it a must-visit destination.

Type

• ✔ Tourist attraction

Good for kids

• ✔ Yes

Amenities

• ✔ Has Restroom

Parking

• ✔ Free parking lot

Accessibility

• ✔ Wheelchair accessible parking
• ✔ Wheelchair accessible entrance

Payments

• ❌ Credit Card
• ❌ Debit Card
• ❌ Cash Only
• ❌ NFC

As one of the largest municipal parks in North America, South Mountain Park and Preserve is a sprawling natural oasis encompassing over 16,000 acres of pristine Sonoran Desert. This majestic preserve offers a diverse array of experiences, from strenuous mountain biking trails and horseback riding paths to leisurely scenic drives. Visitors can explore a rich tapestry of desert flora and fauna, discover hidden canyons, and ascend to various lookouts that provide sweeping views of the entire Valley. The park’s unique selling point is its accessibility to raw wilderness just minutes from the bustling city, allowing for an immersive outdoor adventure whether you’re seeking a challenging hike or a peaceful picnic amidst breathtaking desert landscapes.

Type

• ✔ Park and Garden

Price

• ✔ Free

Good for kids

• ✔ Yes

Amenities

• ❌ Wifi

Parking

• ✔ Free parking lot

Accessibility

• ✔ Wheelchair accessible parking
• ✔ Wheelchair accessible entrance
• ✔ Wheelchair accessible restroom
• ✔ Wheelchair accessible seating

Payments

• ❌ Credit Card
• ❌ Debit Card
• ❌ Cash Only

Nestled within the popular Papago Park, Hole in the Rock is an iconic and uniquely geological formation that stands as a testament to nature’s artistry. This fascinating sandstone Butte features a large, cavelike opening, perfectly framed to offer captivating views of the Phoenix Zoo, Tempe Town Lake, and the distant cityscape. Its accessibility makes it a popular spot for families, offering a relatively easy climb to the “hole” where visitors can sit and enjoy picturesque sunrises and sunsets. Beyond its visual appeal, Hole in the Rock serves as a beloved historical landmark and a fantastic photo opportunity, embodying a playful yet awe-inspiring natural wonder right in the heart of Phoenix’s urban desert.

Type

• ✔ Hiking Area

Good for kids

• ✔ Yes

Good for dogs

• ✔ Yes

Amenities

• ❌ Wifi

Parking

• ✔ Free parking lot

Accessibility

• ✔ Wheelchair accessible parking

Payments

• ❌ Credit Card
• ❌ Debit Card
• ❌ Cash Only

Papago Park is a quintessential Phoenix destination, blending natural beauty with recreational opportunities. This expansive city park is renowned for its distinctive red sandstone buttes, including the famous “Hole in the Rock,” which provides easy-access scenic views. Beyond its geological wonders, Papago Park encompasses a wide array of attractions, including the Phoenix Zoo, Desert Botanical Garden, and numerous hiking and biking trails suitable for all skill levels. The atmosphere here is vibrant and inviting, offering spacious picnic areas and serene landscapes that make it perfect for family outings, a casual stroll, or an immersive natural escape. It’s a true urban oasis where desert beauty and convenience converge.

Type

• ✔ Park and Garden

Price

• ✔ Free

Good for kids

• ✔ Yes

Good for dogs

• ✔ Yes

Amenities

• ❌ Wifi

Parking

• ✔ Free parking lot

Accessibility

• ✔ Wheelchair accessible parking
• ✔ Wheelchair accessible entrance

Payments

• ❌ Cash Only

Piestewa Peak, formerly Squaw Peak, stands as one of Phoenix’s most prominent landmarks and a prime destination for avid hikers. Reaching an elevation of 2,608 feet, the summit trail is a challenging yet incredibly rewarding ascent, offering strenuous exercise coupled with unparalleled panoramic views of the entire Phoenix metropolitan area. For those seeking less intense activity, the park also features several easier, kid-friendly trails that wind through the beautiful desert landscape. The atmosphere at Piestewa Peak is one of energetic outdoor pursuit, drawing fitness enthusiasts and nature lovers alike to conquer its heights and soak in the expansive, breathtaking vistas that stretch for miles in every direction.

Type

• ✔ Park and Garden

Good for kids

• ✔ Yes

Good for dogs

• ✔ Yes

Amenities

• ✔ Has Restroom
• ❌ Wifi

Parking

• ✔ Free parking lot

Accessibility

• ✔ Wheelchair accessible parking
• ✔ Wheelchair accessible entrance

Payments

• ❌ Credit Card
• ❌ Debit Card
• ❌ Cash Only

Tucked away in North Phoenix, Lookout Mountain Preserve provides a serene escape with fantastic hiking trails and impressive vistas. This popular preserve offers various trails, ranging from moderate to challenging, that lead to the summit of Lookout Mountain. From the top, visitors are treated to sweeping city views stretching across the northern expanse of Phoenix and the surrounding desert mountains. It’s an ideal location for a morning hike or an evening stroll, offering a peaceful atmosphere away from the city’s hustle. With its well-maintained paths and accessible trailheads, Lookout Mountain Preserve invites hikers and nature enthusiasts to experience the quiet beauty of the Sonoran Desert and capture memorable scenic photographs.

Type

• ✔ Park and Garden

Good for kids

• ✔ Yes

Amenities

• ❌ Wifi

Accessibility

• ✔ Wheelchair accessible parking
• ❌ Wheelchair accessible entrance

Payments

• ❌ Credit Card
• ❌ Debit Card
• ❌ Cash Only