Winter in the Desert: The Best Things to Do in Phoenix This January & February

Welcome to Phoenix, where January and February offer the most sublime weather of the year, with daytime temperatures in the 60s and 70s—perfect for outdoor exploration and enjoying vibrant events. Escape the cold and discover the best of the Valley of the Sun with this guide to winter activities.

Major Events & Entertainment

Winter is peak event season in Phoenix, featuring world-class sports and cultural showcases.

WM Phoenix Open: Known as "The Greatest Show on Grass," this PGA TOUR event at TPC Scottsdale (Feb 2–8, 2026) is famous for its energetic atmosphere, especially at the stadium-style 16th hole. The week also includes a concert series (Feb 4–7) featuring acts like The Killers, Nelly, and Ludacris.
Barrett-Jackson Scottsdale Auction: Car enthusiasts can attend this renowned collector car auction (through Jan 26, 2026), a major highlight in the region.

World Championship Hoop Dance Contest: Head to the Heard Museum on February 14, 2026, to witness this prestigious competition celebrating Indigenous cultural traditions and artistry.
Arizona Opera - Madama Butterfly: Enjoy a performance of this classic opera at Symphony Hall on February 1, 2026.
Chandler International Film Festival: Running from January 23 to February 1, this festival offers a diverse selection of films for cinephiles.

Outdoor Adventures

With comfortable, clear skies, January and February are the ideal time to hit the trails and parks.

Hiking: Explore iconic trails at Camelback Mountain, Papago Park, South Mountain Park and Preserve. These spots offer stunning desert scenery and panoramic city views without the summer heat.
Desert Botanical Garden
Wander through peaceful trails showcasing towering saguaros and unique cacti. The garden is a beautiful escape from the city and a must-see in the winter months.
Carefree Desert Garden
Discover Sonoran succulents and desert blooms at this free outdoor attraction, perfect for a relaxing stroll.
See Wild Horses: Take a trip to the Salt River to spot wild horses, a unique local experience.

Arts, Culture & Dining

Phoenix's urban scene thrives in the winter, with lively arts districts and delightful al fresco dining.

Roosevelt Row
Explore this vibrant downtown arts district, known for its street art, galleries, and local coffee shops.
Museum Hop
Visit the Phoenix Art Museum (free general admission on the first Friday of each month) or the Heard Museum to immerse yourself in art and Native American history and culture.
Rooftop Dining & Nightlife: The pleasant evenings are perfect for dining outdoors. Check out rooftop bars and restaurants in Downtown Phoenix or Old Town Scottsdale to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and city views.
Local Markets: Browse for local produce, arts, and crafts at the Downtown Phoenix Market held every Saturday.
Japanese Friendship Garden
Experience tranquility at this beautiful garden, which hosts events like a traditional Japanese Tea Ceremony (Feb 15, 2026) and an Ikebana art exhibit.