Best Time to Go
When it comes to visiting Phoenix, there are a number of factors to consider. Do you want to see the hot desert side of Arizona or the snow-capped slopes? Do you want to golf at a resort or relax in wide-open spaces? The first thing to decide before visiting is which of the above is your idea of a vacation. The best times to visit? Fall and spring, when the temperatures are mild and the crowds are minimal.

Average Weather
What can we say about Phoenix? It's a desert. It's steaming hot in the summer. It's milder in the winter (highs in the 60s and 70s), providing a great escape for true winter refugees. The temperatures rise upwards of 110 degrees in the summer. Don't worry about the humidity though, there is none. You don't really sweat too much out in the desert, but don't let that fool you. It's essential to drink plenty of water. Nearly every restaurant and public area is air-conditioned during the summer so you'll find a bit of refuge from the heat. Phoenix averages 300 sunny days and 7 inches of precipitation annually.

Transportation
If you plan to see anything beyond the pedestrian-friendly downtowns of Phoenix, Scottsdale, or Tempe, you will need a car.

In-Season Costs
Prices tend to go up a bit during the winter. This is when Phoenix and Scottsdale see an influx of tourists -- especially golfers. Many of the resorts in Scottsdale are rather pricey, but you may be able to find off-season packages that are reasonable. Otherwise, Scottsdale is comparable to cities such as Boca Raton, Florida and even Palm Beach. Phoenix doesn't come with such an extravagant price tag. There are many deals to be had in downtown Phoenix.

Day Trips
Just a short ways from Phoenix is Tempe. Tempe is home to Arizona State University and is bustling with college activity.

If you have ample time, head north to Flagstaff. Northern Arizona University is here as is the famous Route 66. Flagstaff is an artsy town full of college life and great hotel deals.

Keep heading north and you'll hit Sedona. This sister to the Grand Canyon is an up-and-coming tourist destination. The unbelievable red rocks are worth the drive. This new-age town is filled with unique shops, restaurants, hotels and residents. Don't miss the Pink Jeep Tour while you're here.