Best Time to Visit Phoenix
Arizona Travel Guide picks the best time to visit Phoenix, with a monthly summary of the weather, plus hotel prices and special events to help plan a visit.
Phoenix, the capital of Arizona, is known for its warm and dry climate throughout the year. The city boasts of an arid desert climate with long, hot summers and short, mild winters. It is also close to numerous attractions like the Grand Canyon, Sedona, and Scottsdale.
But when exactly is the best time to visit Phoenix? That depends on multiple factors like your preferences, budget, and the type of experience you seek. Let’s delve into a month-by-month guide exploring the Phoenix weather, Phoenix hotel prices, and special events that Phoenix has to offer.
Best Time to Visit Phoenix Month-by-Month
In January, Phoenix experiences mild winter weather with temperatures ranging from 43°F (6°C) to 65°F (18°C). The rainfall is relatively low at around 0.91 inches (23 mm). Hotel prices are lower during this time, making it an ideal time for budget travelers. There aren’t many special events happening during this time.
February temperatures range between 47°F (8°C) and 70°F (21°C), with rainfall averaging about 0.92 inches (23.4 mm). Hotel prices remain more or less the same as January. The annual Parada Del Sol Parade & Rodeo in neighboring Scottsdale is a major draw during this month.
March starts seeing warmer weather with average temperatures between 51°F (11°C) to 75°F (24°C). The rainfall is roughly 0.99 inches (25.1 mm). The prices of hotels begin to rise. The annual M3F Music Festival held in March is a big event attracting music lovers worldwide.
In April, Phoenix experiences warmer temperatures ranging from 58°F (14°C) to 83°F (28°C). The rainfall is lower at approximately 0.28 inches (7.1 mm). Hotel prices continue to rise. The Phoenix Film Festival in April is a significant event.
May’s temperatures range from 66°F (19°C) to 93°F (34°C). Rain is almost negligible at around 0.11 inches (2.8 mm). May hosts the annual Phoenix Fan Fusion event, attracting comic book and pop culture fans.
June brings hotter weather with temperatures between 74°F (23°C) and 104°F (40°C), and virtually no rain. Phoenix hotel prices could increase due to the start of the holiday season. Things might be quieter in terms of events.
July is the hottest month in Phoenix with temperatures ranging from 83°F (28°C) to 106°F (41°C). It also sees a slight increase in rainfall averaging about 1.05 inches (26.7 mm). Hotel prices might vary, and there are no major events happening in Phoenix during this month.
In August, the temperatures range from 82°F (28°C) to 104°F (40°C). There is a substantial increase in rainfall at about 1.01 inches (25.7 mm). Phoenix hotel prices remain relatively stable, and there aren’t any major events.
September sees a drop in temperature, ranging from 76°F (24°C) to 99°F (37°C). The rainfall also reduces to about 0.64 inches (16.3 mm). Hotel prices begin to drop, and events like the Brazilian Day Arizona Festival take place.
In October, temperatures range from 63°F (17°C) to 88°F (31°C). The rainfall is about 0.58 inches (14.7 mm). Phoenix hotel prices continue to decrease. The Arizona State Fair makes October an attractive month for travelers.
November brings in cooler weather with temperatures between 52°F (11°C) to 73°F (23°C). The rainfall is minimal at around 0.65 inches (16.5 mm). Hotel prices remain low, and fun events like the Phoenix Pizza Festival make it a good time to visit.
December sees temperatures from 44°F (7°C) to 65°F (18°C). The rainfall is about 0.92 inches (23.4 mm). Phoenix hotel prices are at their lowest in December, making it an ideal time for budget travelers. Several holiday events, like Las Noches de las Luminarias at the Desert Botanical Garden, occur during this time.
So When’s the Best Time to Visit Phoenix?
In summary, if you are looking for mild weather and lower hotel prices, the best time to visit Phoenix would be during the winter months from November to March.
If you can bear the heat and want to take part in the lively summer events, then consider visiting between April and October. The “best time to visit Phoenix” ultimately depends on your personal preferences, so considering factors like Phoenix weather, Phoenix hotel prices, and events will certainly help in planning your visit.
Always remember to check the weather forecasts and hotel prices before planning your trip to Phoenix. No matter when you decide to visit, Phoenix is ready to welcome you with its unique charm and vibrancy.
OUR PICK OF THE GUIDES
From that blues bar you haven’t visited yet to the desert hike you keep meaning to plan, experience something new right here at home with Moon 52 Things to Do in Phoenix & Tucson.
- Cool things to do in and around the cities: Kick back at a Spring Training game or squeeze into the grandstands of El Gran Mercado for some lucha libre. Bike the famed Loop in Tucson, kayak Tempe Town Lake, and lace up your boots for an urban hike in the Phoenix Mountains. Support local BIPOC writers at Palabras Bilingual Bookstore and taste what’s on tap at a women-owned brewery. Savor Sonoran-style food like tamales and carne asada or try authentic Tohono O’odham fry bread.
