As warm weather is coming to a close and the winter approaches Phoenix is becoming one of the top destinations for travel nurses. Long since known for being a “snowbird” city for retirees, word has gotten out that there is more to Phoenix than mobile home parks and spring training baseball.
Even though housing costs run a little higher during this time, travel nurses are drawn to Arizona from late fall to early summer thanks to the gorgeous weather and plethora of places to explore. Whether you are a foodie or a backpacker, Phoenix has something to offer almost any travel nurse looking for a fun place to stay during the winter.
Best Neighborhoods
Phoenix has a wide variety of options when it comes to short term housing. The metropolitan area is huge so we will cover everything from neighborhoods in Phoenix proper to areas in the surrounding cities. Travel nurses in the area can find any style of housing--from urban settings to a more relaxed, suburban feel. While Phoenix is a very large city in terms of square mileage, there are actually a lot of neighborhoods that are very walkable in and of themselves. Another thing to note--Phoenix boasts The Valley Metro Rail (opens in new tab)which can take you from the northwest corner of the city to the southeast. It is definitely recommended to bring a car while on assignment in the valley, but by utilizing the light rail and Uber or Lyft you could feasibly get by without your own transportation.
Old Town Scottsdale
One of the more walkable districts in the city, Old Town is known for everything from shopping to great food to nightlife. Located in the northeast corner of the Phoenix metro area, this cute neighborhood may not be the most convenient for commuting but it is a great place to spend your time off. There are tons of housing options as well, and with Scottsdale in general being a very safe and well-maintained ara, it’s hard to go wrong when looking for housing around Phoenix. Also--if you grew up a Malcom in the Middle Fan--it is fun to note that Frankie Muniz actually retired from Hollywood in Old Town and actually runs Outrageous Olive Oils & Vinegars, a small specialty shop.
For those who want to save money and don’t mind sharing living space, there are 243 rooms for rent in the area. This arrangement can reduce costs and help you get to know people in a new city.
You will still enjoy a private bedroom, but depending on the property, you could end up sharing the living room, kitchen and other public spaces.
Central Phoenix
If you simply look at a map of Phoenix you will notice the highways form a rectangle smack dab in the middle of the city. This area is what is known as Central Phoenix and encompasses both downtown and some area north of downtown. In this area you will find more urban housing options including high rise lofts and apartment buildings, or if you look in the northern part of the district there are tons of cute ranch houses. While the Central Phoenix neighborhood is a little more spread out, there is plenty to do between sports venues and trendy restaurants and coffee shops. As an added bonus, all of the major highways are easily accessible from this area, making getting around the city super easy.
Arcadia
Tucked away over near Scottsdale is the suburban neighborhood of Arcadia. Here you will find every convenience you could want in a modern neighborhood. Whole Foods? Trader Joe’s? Local juicery? Super Target? Check, check, check and check. If convenience and a laid back vibe is your goal, this is the perfect neighborhood for you. A lot of local restaurants have also opened up second locations in this area, so there is plenty of good food and drink for nights off as well. Because you aren’t directly in Scottsdale or the middle of the city, this is also a good option for some lower cost short term housing options while still feeling confident you will feel safe and comfortable.
Tempe
Pronounced “tem-pee” this city to the southeast of Phoenix is known for being the home of Arizona State University. More than just a college town, Tempe is a great place for travel nurses to consider looking for housing due to an abundance of affordable apartments. There is also a downtown area near the university that offers a plethora of entertainment options. In town during the notoriously hot summers? Be sure to check out the Arizona Mills shopping mall and stay cool for a bit. You can see an IMAX movie, visit Legoland, or check out the Sea Life Aquarium while you are there as well.
Outdoor Exploring
While Arizona is well known for great hiking in areas like Flagstaff and the Grand Canyon, Phoenix actually has some great options for outdoor adventures as well. Drive about 30 to 45 minutes in any direction and you can probably find something fun to do in those golden months when the weather is 75 degrees and sunny pretty much all the time.
The Superstition Wilderness
Just east of Tempe, the Superstition Wilderness is a mountain range and preserve that covers over 150,000 acres and also include several lakes. Some of the most popular hiking trails in the area are the Flatiron Trail, the Massacre Grounds trail, and Wave Cave. While many people think desert hiking means brown everything, the Superstition Wilderness is full of greenery, especially during early spring. Depending on where you hike, you can also apply for backpacking permits and overnight camp in these areas. Not a fan of hiking? Check out the lake cruise on Canyon Lake, or drive over to the town of Tortilla Flat-- “the town too tough to die”--and enjoy some killer chili and prickly pear ice cream while learning about the folk lore and history of the area.
Camelback Mountain
Located in Scottsdale, Camelback is the stereotypical “tourist” hike if you are living in Phoenix. While everyone talks about the mountain, they don’t always do the best job of emphasizing that this is not a hike for every person. With an elevation gain of almost 1,300 feet in less than 1.5 miles, the trail is steep and even requires some minor climbing at points. Rest assured however, that the views at the top are worth it. You can see the entirety of the Phoenix valley and the mountains that circle the area, so be sure to make it up on a clear day (not that it’s hard to find a clear day in Phoenix).
South Mountain Park
If you just want to stretch your legs and get outside for a bit, South Mountain is the perfect place to head for a few hours. This park is just south of the city and is the largest park in the United States. There are endless trail combinations with a lot of options to loop back and shorten your hikes as needed. The park is also dog and bike friendly, so no matter what style of outdoor exercise you prefer there are options for you at South Mountain.
Lake Pleasant
Wanting to get a little time on the water? Lake Pleasant is located in the town of Peoria which is about 30 minutes northwest of Phoenix. The marina is huge and offers boat rentals ranging from paddleboards to kayaks to speed boats. In addition there are options for camping, a huge water slide you can purchase tickets for, and a restaurant and bar for when it’s time to take a break. The lake is also great for fishing with the proper permits.
Touristy Musts
Desert Botanical Garden
The Desert Botanical Garden is a great way to learn more about the wildlife in the area around Phoenix and appreciate the variety that the desert has to offer. The botanical garden also hosts various events throughout the year from food festivals to yoga to concerts. You can even make a day of it by visiting the garden, checking out the plant shop, and enjoying a meal at the on site restaurant. Not only is the garden beautiful, but by visiting you also support research and conservation efforts in the area.
Hole in the Rock
Just around the corner from the botanical garden, Hole in the Rock is one of those Instagram-perfect photo opps. The easy walk up to the hole can be managed by all fitness levels, and the quick photo opp is worth. If you want a bit longer stroll, stop by Papago Park and enjoy the walking trails there after you snag your Hole in the Rock picture.
Spring Training
If you do hit Phoenix during spring training season, stopping by a game is something you’ll feel obligated to do just to say you’ve been there. Even if you are not a huge baseball fan, the spring training games are very laid back and offer the entertainment of a game without the hassle and stress of normal season crowds. Grab a margarita and some popcorn and relax while you enjoy America’s past time.
Best Restaurants
It cannot be denied that Phoenix has some of the best hole-in-the-wall taco spots in the country. With a huge Mexican population, you can find authentic Mexican food just about everywhere in the city. However, if tacos and tortillas and homemade salsa are not your preferred food groups, there are plenty of other fantastic dining options around the city.
Harumi Sushi
Most people raised near the ocean will quickly raise their eyebrows when they hear about a great sushi place in an inland city like Phoenix. Put the skepticism aside for a minute and give Harumi a try. Known for their black rice sushi, you can just feel the care put into every roll made in this small sushi shop. If you really want to be wowed by your experience, order an Oh My God Roll and enjoy a little bit of fireworks tableside with your sushi.
New Mexican Grill
Southwest of the city in the suburb of Gilbert, this small family owned shop has some of the best salsa you will ever try. Run by a very nice gentleman and his family, the open kitchen allows you to see just how fresh every item is when you order it. This no frills cafe has some of the best breakfast burritos around, and the salsa is so good you will want to be sure and grab some extra to take home and snack on later.
Presidio Cocina Mexicana
If you are looking for authentic Mexican cuisine this restaurant is a must try. You can indulge in more common foods like tacos and enchiladas, or go off the beaten path and try a traditional dish like the pork chile verde. Definitely do not miss out on the Queso Fundido to start the experience. Slightly more upscale, there is also a great wine and mixed drink menu to accompany your meal. Presidio also serves breakfast, so if you need a little spice in your morning this is a great place to try.
Postino
With locations in Houston and Denver, Postino is not 100% local to Phoenix but it is still the perfect place to meet new friends and enjoy delicious wine and bruschetta. Known for their mix and match bruschetta plates this trendy restaurant has several Phoenix locations so you can try them out no matter where you are living. Also be sure to check out the $20 bottle and board specials where you can pair the perfect plate with a bottle of wine--a great way to break the ice with a new travel friend or two!
Weekend Trips
While there is plenty to keep you busy in the city of Phoenix itself, make sure to take some time to road trip around the rest of Arizona as well. While most of the state is considered a desert climate, it also fluctuates between high and low desert--meaning the scenery changes drastically with the elevation. If nothing else just take the drive from Phoenix to Flagstaff and take some time to truly appreciate the variance the state has to offer.
Grand Canyon
Most people simply expect the Grand Canyon to be a big hole in the ground, but you really can’t appreciate how awe-inspiring visiting the canyon is. Just about 4 hours north of Phoenix, the small town of Grand Canyon Village is perfect for a couple day getaway. Enjoy a meal at El Tovar overlooking the canyon, take a day hike down the Bright Angel Trail, or just walk along the rim trail and appreciate the changing views all along the canyon rim. Keep in mind that the Grand Canyon is a tourist spot for people around the world, so plan ahead to make sure you have a place to stay in or near the park.
Sedona
Also on the way to the Grand Canyon, Sedona is deserving of its own vacation. This town is well known for its vortexes--huge red rock formations jutting out of the earth. These are said to be energetic centers and are visited by people around the world. A lot of the vortexes can be reached even if you are not an avid hiker. Sedona also boasts great shopping and restaurants, and the views around the city are breathtaking no matter what time of year you visit. If you have the opportunity to spend extra to get a room with a view, Sedona is the place to splurge a little because the views are definitely worth it.
Flagstaff
Craving a little snow? The city of Flagstaff is where all the native Phoenix citizens go to enjoy a little winter weather without having to head truly north. Here you can actually enjoy all of the normal seasons you may be used to if you grew up in the midwest or on the east coast. The city surrounds the highest mountain in the state: Humphrey’s Peak, and offers great skiing or snowboarding options during winter months. Also check out the Square to relax on a local patio or do some people watching if you visit during the warmer months. A quick two hour drive from Phoenix, Flagstaff is definitely worth an overnight visit during a Phoenix travel nurse assignment.
Phoenix may not be known as a big money assignment but it has definitely grown in popularity among travel nurses in the last few years and it is easy to see why. Lower cost of living combined with ample opportunities to explore and have fun make it a great place for travel nurses to have a nice balance of affordability and enjoyment. Regardless of if you are a foodie or an outdoorsy person, Phoenix has something to offer. As more people begin to realize this, the competition in this area (especially during the winter months) is sure to rise. If you think you want to take advantage of some time in Phoenix--jump on the opportunity and enjoy all that this up and coming city has to offer.