Neighborhood
December 11, 2025
Neighborhood
A Snowbirds Guide to Phoenix
If you’re flocking to Phoenix like so many snowbirds this winter to escape cold climes, we’ve got your guide to explore the city’s scenic landscapes, world-class golf, outdoor adventures, exciting dining and nightlife, and endless shopping.
AVE Editorial Team
December 12, 2023
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3 min read
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Winter Weather in Phoenix, Arizona
Winter is the most popular time to visit Phoenix, Arizona because of the pleasant weather. The daily average is between high 60s and low 70s. Even though desert nights and early mornings may be chilly, you can count on mild temps throughout the winter months.
Winter Outdoor Recreation in Phoenix, Arizona
While your friends and family back home are battling snow, Phoenix snowbirds are teeing off at more than 370 golf courses. Winter is the prime season for golf, and Downtown Phoenix hosts some of the best, providing stunning views of the city and surrounding mountains. The highly acclaimed Encanto 9-Hole and Encanto 18-Hole Golf Courses are only a five-minute drive from AVE Phoenix Terra and AVE Phoenix Sky. Encanto 18 dates back to 1935 and is the third oldest golf course in Arizona.
There’s also Papago Golf Course, located in the heart of Papago Park just over 10 minutes from AVE Phoenix Terra and AVE Phoenix Sky, surrounded by a native desert landscape. Papago is a public golf course with 18 holes and features a popular clubhouse bar & grill.
If you find yourself staying at AVE Paradise Valley both Paradise Valley Golf Course and Mountain Shadows Golf Course are less than 15 minutes away. Paradise Valley Golf Course is 18-holes and is one of the best executive courses in the area, with a restaurant and bar that is open daily. Moutain Shadows is a par-3 course that is perfect for a low-stakes game with friends and has the beautiful Camelback Moutain as the backdrop to your day on the range. Last but certainly not least, TPC Scottsdale is less than a ten minute drive from AVE Paradise Valley and is where the famous Waste Management Open is hosted.
For those seeking outdoor activities beyond golf, locals can enjoy hiking South Mountain Park, Papago Park, and Praying Monk on Camelback Mountain, as well as exploring the Desert Botanical Gardens. Here’s a fun fact, Phoenix is considered a premier bird-watching destination in the country, thanks to its rich riparian habitat.
Restaurants and Bars in Phoenix, Arizona
The Downtown Phoenix food scene is bursting with diverse eateries speakeasies and bars, and dazzling fine dining. Footsteps from AVE Phoenix Terra and AVE Phoenix Sky, you’ll find CIBO, set in a restored 1913 bungalow and serving delicious artisanal pizzas, homemade pasta, and salads. It’s neighbor, The Vig, boasts elevated pub grub and specialty cocktails over local live music. Both venues offer al-fresco dining, allowing you to soak in every moment of the sunshine.
There's also POMO Pizza for authentic Italian food in a casual setting, while Wren & Wolf provides an elevated steakhouse dining experience. Explore Rough Rider for a unique dinner and drinks adventure, featuring a basement speakeasy with a refined New American menu and pre-prohibition cocktails.
For more options, head to Roosevelt Row, where a cluster of captivating bars awaits. Local favorites include Châm Pang Lanes, a buzzing champagne bar and bowling alley, and Ghost Donkey, a fun bar with colorful lights and an impressive selection of tequila-focused cocktails. There's also Palma, a beautiful palm-tree lined bar and restaurant that will have you feeling like you stepped onto your own private resort and Sazerac, a locally owned and operated bar with a casual speakeasy ambience and a lively garden patio specializing in craft cocktails, local beers and premium cigars. Each venue offers a unique experience, ensuring your winter stay is filled with memorable moments.
For our Paradise Valley residents, convenient and delicious stops are merely an elevator ride away with our on-site retail. Blanco Cocina + Cantina is the perfect spot for a laid back happy hour. Enjoy classics like chips and guac paired with margs, or spice it up with the Braised Short Rib "Machaca" or Green Chile Smash Burger. When the night calls for pasta and red wine, see The Sicilian Butcher, your neighborhood Italian staple. For our vegan residents, Flower Child has you covered, with tons of vegetarian and vegan options at the ready. And for dessert, pop over to FROST Gelato and get a perfectly crafted cup, with unique flavors like Espresso, Peanut Butter and Coconut.
When in doubt, spend time scrolling through our On-Site Retail landing page for inspiration for your next dinner, drink, or dessert.
Shopping in Phoenix
Phoenix boasts some of the Southwest's best shopping, with Scottsdale Fashion Square standing tall as one of the largest malls in the country, offering upscale and luxury shopping. However, for those who prefer shopping small, Downtown Phoenix features an abundance of independent shops. A visit to Roosevelt Row unveils a collection of unique stores, including Phoenix General, Bunky Boutique, MADE Art Boutique, and Antique Sugar. Each of these distinctive shops contributes to the vibrant local scene, offering a diverse array of products and a personalized shopping experience.
Entertainment in Phoenix
Downtown Phoenix offers a diverse array of engaging activities catering to varied preferences, ensuring there's something for everyone to enjoy at their own pace. A highlight is the Downtown Phoenix Farmers Market, held every Saturday morning, which is a great way to support local farmers and artisans. The Arizona Financial Theatre stands as a versatile venue, attracting major music acts and acclaimed stand-up comedians alike. For theatre lovers, the Herberger Theater Center and Phoenix Theatre consistently showcase award-winning plays and musicals. Meanwhile, the Phoenix Art Museum, the Southwest's largest art museum, features a rich collection of both contemporary and classic masterpieces. Sports fans can cheer on the city’s local teams, including The Phoenix Suns, Arizona Cardinals, and Arizona Coyotes! Downtown Phoenix truly offers a dynamic blend of entertainment options to explore and enjoy.
For a seamless winter stay, consider a fully furnished apartment. Unlike other rental options, a fully furnished apartment is move-in ready and usually offers flexible leases, perfect for those interested in extending their stay. AVE Phoenix Terra, AVE Phoenix Sky, and AVE Paradise Valley offer fully furnished apartments for stays of 30 days or longer with all the comforts of home. Additionally, each property offers on-demand business and resort amenities like fully equipped business centers, resort-style pools, fitness centers, and friendly resident service teams onsite to assist you 7 days a week. Both Terra and Sky are centrally located in the heart of Downtown Phoenix, and all three properties are 20 minutes or less from the Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport and convenient to endless dining, shopping, and entertainment. Book your stay today!
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